Lachlan Henderson is the new chairman of Cricket Australia (CA), taking up the position four months after his predecessor left amid lack of support.

Henderson, a former first-grade cricketer in Western Australia, has been a CA director for three years.

"As chair, my aim is to ensure the integrity and growth of the game in Australia with strong governance embedded at Cricket Australia and reflected in all levels of cricket, from elite teams to community clubs," Henderson said.

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"Among my other main priorities will be a focus on a strong, sustainable financial future for the game and building on the growth in our participation rates, particularly among girls and women, and our multi-cultural communities."

Henderson's predecessor, Earl Eddings, departed in October after three major state bodies -- New South Wales, Queensland and Western Australia -- withdrew their support.

Lachlan Henderson is the new chairman of Cricket Australia (CA), taking up the position four months after his predecessor left amid lack of support. Henderson, a former first-grade cricketer in Western Australia, has been a CA director for three years.

Lachlan Henderson is the new chairman of Cricket Australia (CA), taking up the position four months after his predecessor left amid lack of support. Henderson, a former first-grade cricketer in Western Australia, has been a CA director for three years. "As chair, my aim is to ensure the integrity and growth of the game in Australia with strong governance embedded at Cricket Australia and reflected in all levels of cricket, from elite teams to community clubs," Henderson said. ALSO READ: 'Split Roles': Australia should have different coach for each format, says former all-rounder Shane Watson "Among my other main priorities will be a focus on a strong, sustainable financial future for the game and building on the growth in our participation rates, particularly among girls and women, and our multi-cultural communities." Henderson's predecessor, Earl Eddings, departed in October after three major state bodies -- New South Wales, Queensland and Western Australia -- withdrew their support.

Lachlan Henderson appointed Cricket Australia's new chairman

Australia should move away from their traditional approach of appointing one coach for all three formats of the game, former all-rounder Shane Watson said on Thursday.

Cricket Australia is searching for a new head coach following the resignation of Justin Langer, with Andrew McDonald appointed on an interim basis.

Watson, who represented Australia in all three formats in more than 300 appearances, said the team would benefit if the top coaching job was shared.

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"I think it is going to have to be a necessity to break up the formats with their (Australia's) coaches," Watson told the International Cricket Council's show 'The ICC Review'.

"There is a good chance they will split the roles as I don't think it is sustainable that everyone does every single format for a long period of time.

"There is always going to be burnout and fatigue in a team environment, especially now with COVID and bubbles and similar situations that are around."

Watson said former Sri Lanka and England coach Trevor Bayliss would be a good fit for Australia.

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"I love the experience Trevor Bayliss has," Watson said. "He has probably seen every single thing possible in cricket just about and I would love to see him get a great opportunity.

"Andrew McDonald is a great coach and is in the early part of his career, but I would err towards experience just for this interim period for the next stage of Australian cricket."

Australia should move away from their traditional approach of appointing one coach for all three formats of the game, former all-rounder Shane Watson said on Thursday.

Australia should move away from their traditional approach of appointing one coach for all three formats of the game, former all-rounder Shane Watson said on Thursday. Cricket Australia is searching for a new head coach following the resignation of Justin Langer, with Andrew McDonald appointed on an interim basis. Watson, who represented Australia in all three formats in more than 300 appearances, said the team would benefit if the top coaching job was shared. ALSO READ: Ranji Trophy: U19 WC-winning captain Yash Dhull stars on first-class debut, smashes century against Tamil Nadu "I think it is going to have to be a necessity to break up the formats with their (Australia's) coaches," Watson told the International Cricket Council's show 'The ICC Review'. "There is a good chance they will split the roles as I don't think it is sustainable that everyone does every single format for a long period of time. "There is always going to be burnout and fatigue in a team environment, especially now with COVID and bubbles and similar situations that are around." Watson said former Sri Lanka and England coach Trevor Bayliss would be a good fit for Australia. ALSO READ: 'We're not even talking about him'- Chopra reacts to string of low scores from Kohli after 1st T20I vs WI "I love the experience Trevor Bayliss has," Watson said. "He has probably seen every single thing possible in cricket just about and I would love to see him get a great opportunity. "Andrew McDonald is a great coach and is in the early part of his career, but I would err towards experience just for this interim period for the next stage of Australian cricket."

'Split Roles': Australia should have different coach for each format, says former all-rounder Shane Watson

The ICC Men's T20 World Cup Qualifier A is all set to begin at the Oman Academy grounds in Al Amerat on Friday.

A lot is at stake for the eight participating nations - Ireland, Nepal, UAE, Canada, Germany, Philippines, Bahrain, and hosts Oman - as they vie for the two spots available at the Qualifier A from February 18 to 24.

The Qualifier A is one of the two global qualifiers that is part of the final stages of the qualification process of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2022 in Australia.

A total of 20 matches will decide the two teams that will travel to Australia for the pinnacle event in the shortest format of the game later this year as an intense and exciting battle of cricket awaits fans across the world.

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The eight-nation tournament features an experienced Ireland side, who are set to face a fight from an in-form UAE, hosts Oman, and Nepal as the quartet boast of experience at playing at the global stage.

However, with teams like Canada, Germany, Bahrain, and the Philippines eager to showcase their mettle, there is a good possibility of a few surprises in the coming week.

If Test-playing nation Ireland, the only Full Member nation, in the fray, begins the tournament as a favorite, there is a lot of excitement in the camp of debutants - Germany and the Philippines, who start the tournament as minnows, as this would be their first major event at the global stage.

Hosts Oman, who like Ireland, qualified for this tournament after being eliminated in the first round of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2021, will be hoping to bank on their home ground advantage.

Oman is pooled along with Nepal, who will be looking to qualify for the ICC Men's T20 World Cup for the first time since they made their debut in 2014. Canada and the Philippines complete Group A.

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Canada could be the surprise package in Group A and matchups against the hosts and Nepal could potentially be decisive for the two teams that would make it to the semi-finals. In Group A, Ireland are the dominant unit, and the UAE, who have been in a good form ahead of the event, are likely to push for the top two spots.

Debutant Germany and regional team, Bahrain, are the other teams in Group B with Germany hoping to ring in a surprise or two.

For Germany, it will be a new chapter in the history of the game, as they make their first-ever appearance at a global qualifier, an achievement for an emerging cricket nation they share with the Philippines.

Nepal and the UAE sealed their places in the Qualifiers based on their rankings in the ICC Men's T20I Team Rankings. The other four teams - Germany, Canada, Bahrain, and the Philippines - advanced through their regional qualifying tournaments held through the course of last year

The ICC Men's T20 World Cup Qualifier A is all set to begin at the Oman Academy grounds in Al Amerat on Friday. A lot is at stake for the eight participating nations - Ireland, Nepal, UAE, Canada, Germany, Philippines, Bahrain, and hosts Oman - as they vie for the two spots available at the Qualifier A from February 18 to 24.

The ICC Men's T20 World Cup Qualifier A is all set to begin at the Oman Academy grounds in Al Amerat on Friday. A lot is at stake for the eight participating nations - Ireland, Nepal, UAE, Canada, Germany, Philippines, Bahrain, and hosts Oman - as they vie for the two spots available at the Qualifier A from February 18 to 24. The Qualifier A is one of the two global qualifiers that is part of the final stages of the qualification process of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2022 in Australia. A total of 20 matches will decide the two teams that will travel to Australia for the pinnacle event in the shortest format of the game later this year as an intense and exciting battle of cricket awaits fans across the world. ALSO READ: ICC T20I Rankings: Wanindu Hasaranga loses top spot, Josh Hazelwood moves to second The eight-nation tournament features an experienced Ireland side, who are set to face a fight from an in-form UAE, hosts Oman, and Nepal as the quartet boast of experience at playing at the global stage. However, with teams like Canada, Germany, Bahrain, and the Philippines eager to showcase their mettle, there is a good possibility of a few surprises in the coming week. If Test-playing nation Ireland, the only Full Member nation, in the fray, begins the tournament as a favorite, there is a lot of excitement in the camp of debutants - Germany and the Philippines, who start the tournament as minnows, as this would be their first major event at the global stage. Hosts Oman, who like Ireland, qualified for this tournament after being eliminated in the first round of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2021, will be hoping to bank on their home ground advantage. Oman is pooled along with Nepal, who will be looking to qualify for the ICC Men's T20 World Cup for the first time since they made their debut in 2014. Canada and the Philippines complete Group A. ALSO READ: Glenn Maxwell to miss Australia's tour of Pakistan and likely start of IPL 2022, here's why Canada could be the surprise package in Group A and matchups against the hosts and Nepal could potentially be decisive for the two teams that would make it to the semi-finals. In Group A, Ireland are the dominant unit, and the UAE, who have been in a good form ahead of the event, are likely to push for the top two spots. Debutant Germany and regional team, Bahrain, are the other teams in Group B with Germany hoping to ring in a surprise or two. For Germany, it will be a new chapter in the history of the game, as they make their first-ever appearance at a global qualifier, an achievement for an emerging cricket nation they share with the Philippines. Nepal and the UAE sealed their places in the Qualifiers based on their rankings in the ICC Men's T20I Team Rankings. The other four teams - Germany, Canada, Bahrain, and the Philippines - advanced through their regional qualifying tournaments held through the course of last year

ICC Men's T20 World Cup: Qualifier A to kickstart on 18 February in Oman

Australian quick Josh Hazlewood returned his best-ever T20I figures in the series opener against Sri Lanka, taking 4-12 in a spell, before capping another haul of 3-22 last week, with a match-sealing Super Over that went for just five runs.

He is now number two among the T20I bowlers, just one point behind South Africa's Tabraiz Shamsi in the ICC Men's T20I Player Rankings.

This week's ratings come after the first three Australia v Sri Lanka matches and the second and third India v West Indies games.

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In the series against Australia, Wanindu Hasaranga took five wickets in the first two matches, but having missed the final match, it wasn't enough for him to continue onto the top spot, as he dropped to the third place in the T20I bowling rankings.

His teammate Maheesh Theekshana was up 16 places to 29th. In the batters list, Sri Lanka's Pathum Nissanka topped the run-scorers in the T20I series with Australia with 125 runs across the three games to move up 42 places and become joint 21st.

Dipendra Singh Airee from Nepal was the leading run-scorer in the Quadrangular T20I tournament held in Oman with 142 runs which helped him up 63 places to 53rd with the bat.

Chirag Suri of the UAE also moved up the table thanks to his unbeaten 84 against Nepal, which was the highest individual score in the competition.

In bowlers again, Oman's Bilal Khan proved to be very economical, conceding just 62 runs in his 12 overs, to move to his career-best position of 18th in T20I in the series.

In the fifty-over format, the Indian pair of Shreyas Iyer and Suryakumar Yadav has made strides up the table.

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Yadav scored 64 in the second ODI against the West Indies whilst Iyer made an 80 in the third to help the home side complete a 3-0 series win.

Their teammate Rishabh Pant added a half-century in the third match to move to a career-best of 469 points at 71st place.

Indian pacer Prasidh Krishna was the leading wicket-taker across both sides with nine wickets at just 7.55 to gain 50 places from 94th to 44th in the ODI bowlers list, whilst Alzarri Joseph took two wickets in each of the three matches to earn himself a place in the top 20 bowler's list.

Australian quick Josh Hazlewood returned his best-ever T20I figures in the series opener against Sri Lanka, taking 4-12 in a spell, before capping another haul of 3-22 last week, with a match-sealing Super Over that went for just five runs.

Australian quick Josh Hazlewood returned his best-ever T20I figures in the series opener against Sri Lanka, taking 4-12 in a spell, before capping another haul of 3-22 last week, with a match-sealing Super Over that went for just five runs. He is now number two among the T20I bowlers, just one point behind South Africa's Tabraiz Shamsi in the ICC Men's T20I Player Rankings. This week's ratings come after the first three Australia v Sri Lanka matches and the second and third India v West Indies games. ALSO READ: Glenn Maxwell to miss Australia's tour of Pakistan and likely start of IPL 2022, here's why In the series against Australia, Wanindu Hasaranga took five wickets in the first two matches, but having missed the final match, it wasn't enough for him to continue onto the top spot, as he dropped to the third place in the T20I bowling rankings. His teammate Maheesh Theekshana was up 16 places to 29th. In the batters list, Sri Lanka's Pathum Nissanka topped the run-scorers in the T20I series with Australia with 125 runs across the three games to move up 42 places and become joint 21st. Dipendra Singh Airee from Nepal was the leading run-scorer in the Quadrangular T20I tournament held in Oman with 142 runs which helped him up 63 places to 53rd with the bat. Chirag Suri of the UAE also moved up the table thanks to his unbeaten 84 against Nepal, which was the highest individual score in the competition. In bowlers again, Oman's Bilal Khan proved to be very economical, conceding just 62 runs in his 12 overs, to move to his career-best position of 18th in T20I in the series. In the fifty-over format, the Indian pair of Shreyas Iyer and Suryakumar Yadav has made strides up the table. ALSO READ: India vs West Indies: Virat Kohli stands 73 runs away from breaking Martin Guptill's world record in T20Is Yadav scored 64 in the second ODI against the West Indies whilst Iyer made an 80 in the third to help the home side complete a 3-0 series win. Their teammate Rishabh Pant added a half-century in the third match to move to a career-best of 469 points at 71st place. Indian pacer Prasidh Krishna was the leading wicket-taker across both sides with nine wickets at just 7.55 to gain 50 places from 94th to 44th in the ODI bowlers list, whilst Alzarri Joseph took two wickets in each of the three matches to earn himself a place in the top 20 bowler's list.

ICC T20I Rankings: Wanindu Hasaranga loses top spot, Josh Hazelwood moves to second

The winners of the 2022 Women's 50-over World Cup will receive prize money of $1.32 million, twice the amount awarded in the last edition, the governing International Cricket Council (ICC) announced on Tuesday.

The 2022 event will be held from March 4 to April 3 across six venues in New Zealand, played in a round-robin format with the top four teams advancing to the semi-finals.

England are the defending champions after they beat India by nine runs in the final at Lord's in 2017.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-did-look-a-little-scared-gavaskar-explains-why-suresh-raina-went-unsold-at-ipl-2022-mega-auction-453400">'He did look a little scared' - Gavaskar explains why Suresh Raina went unsold at IPL 2022 mega auction</a>

The ICC said that the overall prize money pot has been increased by 75%, with the teams taking home a share of $3.5 million, which is $1.5 million more than the previous edition.

The runners-up will be awarded a sum of $600,000, some $270,000 more than the last edition, the statement added.

The winners of the 2022 Women's 50-over World Cup will receive prize money of $1.32 million, twice the amount awarded in the last edition, the governing International Cricket Council (ICC) announced on Tuesday.

The winners of the 2022 Women's 50-over World Cup will receive prize money of $1.32 million, twice the amount awarded in the last edition, the governing International Cricket Council (ICC) announced on Tuesday. The 2022 event will be held from March 4 to April 3 across six venues in New Zealand, played in a round-robin format with the top four teams advancing to the semi-finals. England are the defending champions after they beat India by nine runs in the final at Lord's in 2017. ALSO READ: 'He did look a little scared' - Gavaskar explains why Suresh Raina went unsold at IPL 2022 mega auction The ICC said that the overall prize money pot has been increased by 75%, with the teams taking home a share of $3.5 million, which is $1.5 million more than the previous edition. The runners-up will be awarded a sum of $600,000, some $270,000 more than the last edition, the statement added.

ICC doubles prize money for Women's World Cup 2022, winner to receive USD 1.32 million

South Africa captain Dean Elgar says friendships will be put aside when they come up against in-form New Zealand batsman Devan Conway in the first of two tests at the Hagley Oval in Christchurch on Feb. 17.

Johannesburg-born Conway made his test bow against England at Lords last year and has been in sensational form since, with three hundreds and two fifties in his nine innings to date. That includes a double ton on debut.

Many of the touring South Africans have played with and against Conway in the country’s domestic cricket, so are well aware of his qualities.

"He is playing with a different badge on his chest now and has had a great start to test cricket. His numbers speak volumes and he is in a massive purple-patch," Elgar told reporters on Thursday.

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"But we don’t see him as a South African guy anymore, he is living here and playing for another country."

"I am sure there will be some friendly chats off the field because a lot of guys know him and played with him and against him. But once match-day comes and you walk over that white line, it is all business, irrespective if he is your friend or not."

The South African side have begun to practice for a few hours each day having all returned negative COVID-19 results in the first three rounds of testing since their arrival in the country.

Elgar says they are thankful for the discussions between the respective cricket boards and New Zealand government to ease restrictions and "make life bearable".

"It is impossible to get guys to come and tour here if you are doing a straight 10 days where you can’t leave your room, basically living in jail without the opportunity to go outside and get some fresh air, practice or gym," Elgar says.

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"They have tried their utmost to make life bearable for us knowing that doing 10 days straight is absolutely not human for cricketers, let alone citizens.

"We do want to be here and play against New Zealand, no doubt, but you also have to meet the touring team halfway."

South Africa captain Dean Elgar says friendships will be put aside when they come up against in-form New Zealand batsman Devan Conway in the first of two tests at the Hagley Oval in Christchurch on Feb.

South Africa captain Dean Elgar says friendships will be put aside when they come up against in-form New Zealand batsman Devan Conway in the first of two tests at the Hagley Oval in Christchurch on Feb. 17. Johannesburg-born Conway made his test bow against England at Lords last year and has been in sensational form since, with three hundreds and two fifties in his nine innings to date. That includes a double ton on debut. Many of the touring South Africans have played with and against Conway in the country’s domestic cricket, so are well aware of his qualities. "He is playing with a different badge on his chest now and has had a great start to test cricket. His numbers speak volumes and he is in a massive purple-patch," Elgar told reporters on Thursday. ALSO READ: New Zealand skipper Kane Williamson ruled out of South Africa series due to long-standing elbow injury "But we don’t see him as a South African guy anymore, he is living here and playing for another country." "I am sure there will be some friendly chats off the field because a lot of guys know him and played with him and against him. But once match-day comes and you walk over that white line, it is all business, irrespective if he is your friend or not." The South African side have begun to practice for a few hours each day having all returned negative COVID-19 results in the first three rounds of testing since their arrival in the country. Elgar says they are thankful for the discussions between the respective cricket boards and New Zealand government to ease restrictions and "make life bearable". "It is impossible to get guys to come and tour here if you are doing a straight 10 days where you can’t leave your room, basically living in jail without the opportunity to go outside and get some fresh air, practice or gym," Elgar says. ALSO READ: English-born wicketkeeper-batsman Josh Inglis set for Australia debut against Sri Lanka "They have tried their utmost to make life bearable for us knowing that doing 10 days straight is absolutely not human for cricketers, let alone citizens. "We do want to be here and play against New Zealand, no doubt, but you also have to meet the touring team halfway."

'We don’t see him as a South African guy anymore': South Africa captain Dean Elgar on Devon Conway

Cricket South Africa (CSA) on Wednesday announced the finalized dates and venues for the Proteas men`s inbound tour against Bangladesh.

The tour will consist of three ODIs and two Tests across four venues from March 18 to April 12, 2022." SuperSport Park, Centurion will host two of the ODI matches, with the third taken by the Wanderers, Johannesburg while the coastal cities of Durban and Gqeberha will take on the Test fixtures," stated CSA in an official release.

The tour is of great significance for the hosts, as both series count for vital points in the ICC Cricket World Cup Super League and the ICC World Test Championship.

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Fixtures:

1st ODI-- March 18 -- SuperSport Park, Centurion

2nd ODI -- March 20 -- Wanderers, Johannerburg

3rd ODI -- March 23 -- SuperSport Park, Centurion

1st Test: March 31-April 4 -- Kingsmead, Durban

2nd Test: April 8-12 -- St. George`s Park Cricket Ground, Gqeberha.

&nbsp;

Cricket South Africa (CSA) on Wednesday announced the finalized dates and venues for the Proteas men`s inbound tour against Bangladesh. The tour will consist of three ODIs and two Tests across four venues from March 18 to April 12, 2022.

Cricket South Africa (CSA) on Wednesday announced the finalized dates and venues for the Proteas men`s inbound tour against Bangladesh. The tour will consist of three ODIs and two Tests across four venues from March 18 to April 12, 2022." SuperSport Park, Centurion will host two of the ODI matches, with the third taken by the Wanderers, Johannesburg while the coastal cities of Durban and Gqeberha will take on the Test fixtures," stated CSA in an official release. The tour is of great significance for the hosts, as both series count for vital points in the ICC Cricket World Cup Super League and the ICC World Test Championship. ALSO READ: ICC Player of the Month: Brewis, Keegan Petersen and Ebadot Hossain nominated for January 2022 Fixtures: 1st ODI-- March 18 -- SuperSport Park, Centurion 2nd ODI -- March 20 -- Wanderers, Johannerburg 3rd ODI -- March 23 -- SuperSport Park, Centurion 1st Test: March 31-April 4 -- Kingsmead, Durban 2nd Test: April 8-12 -- St. George`s Park Cricket Ground, Gqeberha.

South Africa to host Bangladesh for three ODIs, two Tests in March-April

The nominees for ICC Players of the Month for men`s and women`s international cricket were announced on Tuesday. Featuring in the men`s category are under-19 future star Dewald Brevis from South Africa, Ebadot Hossain from Bangladesh, and Keegan Petersen from South Africa. The women`s category, features captain of the Sri Lankan T20I squad, Chamari Athapaththu, West Indies all-rounder Deandra Dottin, and captain of the England squad Heather Knight.

Nicknamed Baby AB, South Africa`s Dewald Brewis left a mark in the recently concluded ICC Men`s U19 Cricket World Cup. In the course of the tournament, Brewis made a magnificent 65 against India, followed by a century against Uganda, a 96 against Ireland, a 97 against England, and a sublime 138 against Bangladesh to round his tournament.

With a total of 506 runs in the tournament, he finished as the leading run-scorer of the tournament at an average of 84.33 and now holds the record for the most runs in a single edition of the ICC Men`s U19 Cricket World Cup. He was also adjudged as the Player of the Tournament.

Keegan Petersen steered South Africa to a stunning Test series win over India last month. Petersen scored a superb 82 as South Africa completed a seven-wicket victory in the third Test and a 2-1 series win over India on a spiteful Newlands pitch having chased down their challenging target of 212.

Petersen, who was the leading scorer in the series with 276 runs, was the anchor for the home side on a difficult wicket for batting and was also adjudged the Player of the Series.

Last month Knight played a single Test against Australia as part of the Women`s Ashes Tour. An unbeaten hundred from Heather Knight, her second test century had helped England stay afloat on day two of the only Women`s Ashes Test at the Manuka Oval in Canberra. In between several dismissals, Knight continued to score runs, finding boundaries including a slog sweep for six. At tea, England was still at risk, needing 67 more runs to avoid a follow-on.

While Charlotte Dean resisted for a bit, putting on a 30-run stand with Knight, Australia struck twice in six overs before Knight and Ecclestone joined hands and revived the innings a bit with a half-century stand. By the time Anya Shrubsole was dismissed, Knight had gone into the nineties. With Ecclestone appearing more at ease than the rest of the batters, Knight grew in confidence and attained her second Test century.

The nominees for ICC Players of the Month for men`s and women`s international cricket were announced on Tuesday. Featuring in the men`s category are under-19 future star Dewald Brevis from South Africa, Ebadot Hossain from Bangladesh, and Keegan Petersen from South Africa.

The nominees for ICC Players of the Month for men`s and women`s international cricket were announced on Tuesday. Featuring in the men`s category are under-19 future star Dewald Brevis from South Africa, Ebadot Hossain from Bangladesh, and Keegan Petersen from South Africa. The women`s category, features captain of the Sri Lankan T20I squad, Chamari Athapaththu, West Indies all-rounder Deandra Dottin, and captain of the England squad Heather Knight. Nicknamed Baby AB, South Africa`s Dewald Brewis left a mark in the recently concluded ICC Men`s U19 Cricket World Cup. In the course of the tournament, Brewis made a magnificent 65 against India, followed by a century against Uganda, a 96 against Ireland, a 97 against England, and a sublime 138 against Bangladesh to round his tournament. With a total of 506 runs in the tournament, he finished as the leading run-scorer of the tournament at an average of 84.33 and now holds the record for the most runs in a single edition of the ICC Men`s U19 Cricket World Cup. He was also adjudged as the Player of the Tournament. Keegan Petersen steered South Africa to a stunning Test series win over India last month. Petersen scored a superb 82 as South Africa completed a seven-wicket victory in the third Test and a 2-1 series win over India on a spiteful Newlands pitch having chased down their challenging target of 212. Petersen, who was the leading scorer in the series with 276 runs, was the anchor for the home side on a difficult wicket for batting and was also adjudged the Player of the Series. Last month Knight played a single Test against Australia as part of the Women`s Ashes Tour. An unbeaten hundred from Heather Knight, her second test century had helped England stay afloat on day two of the only Women`s Ashes Test at the Manuka Oval in Canberra. In between several dismissals, Knight continued to score runs, finding boundaries including a slog sweep for six. At tea, England was still at risk, needing 67 more runs to avoid a follow-on. While Charlotte Dean resisted for a bit, putting on a 30-run stand with Knight, Australia struck twice in six overs before Knight and Ecclestone joined hands and revived the innings a bit with a half-century stand. By the time Anya Shrubsole was dismissed, Knight had gone into the nineties. With Ecclestone appearing more at ease than the rest of the batters, Knight grew in confidence and attained her second Test century.

ICC Player of the Month: Brewis, Keegan Petersen and Ebadot Hossain nominated for January 2022

India's limited-overs vice-captain KL Rahul has climbed up the ladder in the latest ICC T20I Rankings. With this, he has swapped places with England's Dawid Malan, who takes the fourth spot in the list spearheaded by Pakistan's Babar Azam.

The top-two batting spots are occupied by Pakistani openers -- Babar (on top with&nbsp;805 rating points) and Md Rizwan taking the second spot. South Africa's Aiden Markram (796 points) is at the fourth position. For Virat Kohli and white-ball captain Rohit Sharma, India's two mainstays with the bat,&nbsp;the former is at the tenth spot whereas Rohit follows suit.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2022-mega-event-to-be-held-in-india-franchises-eager-for-bcci-to-finalise-venues-report-449770">IPL 2022: Mega event to be held in India; franchises eager for BCCI to finalise venues - Report</a>

JASON HOLDER MAKES A GIANT LEAP

Left-arm spinner Akeal Hosein and fast-bowling all-rounder Jason Holder&nbsp;achieved career-best rankings in the bowling list following the end of the five-match T20I series between West Indies and England, in&nbsp;the Caribbean island. Meanwhile, there is not even a single Indian bowler in the top 15. Under-fire senior pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar sits at the 19th spot. 
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While Hosein has moved up 15 places to take the&nbsp;18th position -- returning with six scalps in the three&nbsp;games he featured in during the&nbsp;WI-England T20Is -- all-rounder Holder has moved up by three places to 23rd with a huge gain of 20 rating points. The lanky all-rounder ended with 15 wickets (including a hat-trick)&nbsp;to also walk away with the Player-of-the-Series award.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/4-wickets-in-4-balls-jason-holder-becomes-first-west-indies-bowler-to-take-a-t20i-hat-trick-watch-449246">4 wickets in 4 balls! Jason Holder becomes first West Indies bowler to take a T20I hat-trick - Watch</a>

Shakib Al Hasan occupies the 20th position whereas India's pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah is at the 25th spot. In the all-rounders' category, Moeen Ali has jumped up by six spots to enter the top 3. Mohammad Nabi leads the chart with Glenn Maxwell also featuring in the top 5, occupying the fourth spot.

India's limited-overs vice-captain KL Rahul has climbed up the ladder in the latest ICC T20I Rankings. With this, he has swapped places with England's Dawid Malan, who takes the fourth spot in the list spearheaded by Pakistan's Babar Azam.

India's limited-overs vice-captain KL Rahul has climbed up the ladder in the latest ICC T20I Rankings. With this, he has swapped places with England's Dawid Malan, who takes the fourth spot in the list spearheaded by Pakistan's Babar Azam. The top-two batting spots are occupied by Pakistani openers -- Babar (on top with 805 rating points) and Md Rizwan taking the second spot. South Africa's Aiden Markram (796 points) is at the fourth position. For Virat Kohli and white-ball captain Rohit Sharma, India's two mainstays with the bat, the former is at the tenth spot whereas Rohit follows suit. ALSO READ | IPL 2022: Mega event to be held in India; franchises eager for BCCI to finalise venues - Report JASON HOLDER MAKES A GIANT LEAP Left-arm spinner Akeal Hosein and fast-bowling all-rounder Jason Holder achieved career-best rankings in the bowling list following the end of the five-match T20I series between West Indies and England, in the Caribbean island. Meanwhile, there is not even a single Indian bowler in the top 15. Under-fire senior pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar sits at the 19th spot. While Hosein has moved up 15 places to take the 18th position -- returning with six scalps in the three games he featured in during the WI-England T20Is -- all-rounder Holder has moved up by three places to 23rd with a huge gain of 20 rating points. The lanky all-rounder ended with 15 wickets (including a hat-trick) to also walk away with the Player-of-the-Series award. ALSO READ | 4 wickets in 4 balls! Jason Holder becomes first West Indies bowler to take a T20I hat-trick - Watch Shakib Al Hasan occupies the 20th position whereas India's pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah is at the 25th spot. In the all-rounders' category, Moeen Ali has jumped up by six spots to enter the top 3. Mohammad Nabi leads the chart with Glenn Maxwell also featuring in the top 5, occupying the fourth spot.

ICC T20I Rankings: KL Rahul climbs up the ladder; Jason Holder makes huge gain after England series

Former Zimbabwe captain Brendan Taylor has been banned from all forms of cricket for three and a half years after he accepted breaching four charges of the ICC Anti-Corruption Code and, separately, one charge of the ICC Anti-Doping Code. Taylor represented Zimbabwe in 284 international matches between 2004 and 2021, scoring 9,938 runs with 17 centuries.

Taylor admitted to being in breach of the following provisions of the ICC Anti-Corruption Code: Article 2.4.2 - Failing to disclose (without unnecessary delay) the receipt of any gift, payment, hospitality or other benefits that (a) the participant knew or should have known was given to them to procure a breach of the Code or (b) that was made or given in circumstances that could bring the participant or the sport of cricket into disrepute. Article 2.4.3 - Failing to disclose to the ACU (without unnecessary delay) receipt of gifts/hospitality with a value of US$750 or more regardless of the circumstances in which they were given. Article 2.4.4 - Failing to disclose to the ACU (without unnecessary delay) full details of the approach received to engage in corrupt conduct under the Code including in relation to Zimbabwe`s then-upcoming series against Sri Lanka and/or Bangladesh.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/brendan-taylor-makes-heads-turn-accepts-being-conned-and-blackmailed-for-spot-fixing-set-to-face-iccs-ban-447107">Brendan Taylor makes heads turn, accepts being conned and blackmailed for spot-fixing, set to face ICC's ban</a>

Article 2.4.7 - obstructing or delaying an ACU investigation, including concealing, tampering with or destroying any documentation or other information that may be relevant to that investigation and/or that may be evidence of or may lead to the discovery of evidence of corrupt conduct under the ICC Anti-Corruption Code. Taylor chose to admit the charges under the provisions of the ICC Anti-Corruption Code and agreed to a sanction with the ICC in lieu of an Anti-Corruption Tribunal hearing. His violation under the ICC Anti-Doping Code, which is separate and independent of the anti-corruption charges, resulted from an In-Competition test conducted on September 8, 2021, following Zimbabwe`s match against Ireland. Taylor tested positive for the stimulant Benzoylecognine, a cocaine metabolite, which is specified as a Substance of Abuse under the Code.

Taylor has accepted a one-month period of ineligibility for the violation under Article 2.1 - the minimum allowed under the Code. Taylor`s period of ineligibility was reduced to one month because he was able to establish that he had ingested the substance out of competition, that it was unrelated to sports performance, and because he is currently undergoing a rehabilitation treatment programme. This one-month suspension will run concurrently with the suspension of three and a half years under the ICC Anti-Corruption Code. Taylor will be free to resume his involvement in the game on July 28, 2025.Alex Marshall, ICC General Manager - Integrity Unit in a statement said: "Brendan is a former international captain who represented Zimbabwe for 17 years. Over such a long career, he participated in numerous anti-corruption and anti-doping education sessions and knew exactly what his obligations were under the ICC Anti-Corruption and Anti-Doping Codes.

"It is disappointing that a player of his experience chose not to fulfil those obligations, however, he has accepted all charges, which has been reflected in the sanction. I would echo Brendan`s message to other players to report approaches as soon as they happen so any corrupt activity can be disrupted at the earliest possible opportunity. We wish Brendan well in his rehabilitation," Marshall added.

Former Zimbabwe captain Brendan Taylor has been banned from all forms of cricket for three and a half years after he accepted breaching four charges of the ICC Anti-Corruption Code and, separately, one charge of the ICC Anti-Doping Code.

Former Zimbabwe captain Brendan Taylor has been banned from all forms of cricket for three and a half years after he accepted breaching four charges of the ICC Anti-Corruption Code and, separately, one charge of the ICC Anti-Doping Code. Taylor represented Zimbabwe in 284 international matches between 2004 and 2021, scoring 9,938 runs with 17 centuries. Taylor admitted to being in breach of the following provisions of the ICC Anti-Corruption Code: Article 2.4.2 - Failing to disclose (without unnecessary delay) the receipt of any gift, payment, hospitality or other benefits that (a) the participant knew or should have known was given to them to procure a breach of the Code or (b) that was made or given in circumstances that could bring the participant or the sport of cricket into disrepute. Article 2.4.3 - Failing to disclose to the ACU (without unnecessary delay) receipt of gifts/hospitality with a value of US$750 or more regardless of the circumstances in which they were given. Article 2.4.4 - Failing to disclose to the ACU (without unnecessary delay) full details of the approach received to engage in corrupt conduct under the Code including in relation to Zimbabwe`s then-upcoming series against Sri Lanka and/or Bangladesh. ALSO READ | Brendan Taylor makes heads turn, accepts being conned and blackmailed for spot-fixing, set to face ICC's ban Article 2.4.7 - obstructing or delaying an ACU investigation, including concealing, tampering with or destroying any documentation or other information that may be relevant to that investigation and/or that may be evidence of or may lead to the discovery of evidence of corrupt conduct under the ICC Anti-Corruption Code. Taylor chose to admit the charges under the provisions of the ICC Anti-Corruption Code and agreed to a sanction with the ICC in lieu of an Anti-Corruption Tribunal hearing. His violation under the ICC Anti-Doping Code, which is separate and independent of the anti-corruption charges, resulted from an In-Competition test conducted on September 8, 2021, following Zimbabwe`s match against Ireland. Taylor tested positive for the stimulant Benzoylecognine, a cocaine metabolite, which is specified as a Substance of Abuse under the Code. Taylor has accepted a one-month period of ineligibility for the violation under Article 2.1 - the minimum allowed under the Code. Taylor`s period of ineligibility was reduced to one month because he was able to establish that he had ingested the substance out of competition, that it was unrelated to sports performance, and because he is currently undergoing a rehabilitation treatment programme. This one-month suspension will run concurrently with the suspension of three and a half years under the ICC Anti-Corruption Code. Taylor will be free to resume his involvement in the game on July 28, 2025.Alex Marshall, ICC General Manager - Integrity Unit in a statement said: "Brendan is a former international captain who represented Zimbabwe for 17 years. Over such a long career, he participated in numerous anti-corruption and anti-doping education sessions and knew exactly what his obligations were under the ICC Anti-Corruption and Anti-Doping Codes. "It is disappointing that a player of his experience chose not to fulfil those obligations, however, he has accepted all charges, which has been reflected in the sanction. I would echo Brendan`s message to other players to report approaches as soon as they happen so any corrupt activity can be disrupted at the earliest possible opportunity. We wish Brendan well in his rehabilitation," Marshall added.

Former Zimbabwe captain Brendan Taylor banned until July 2025 after fixing revelations

Former Pakistan pacer Shoaib Akhtar believes cricket has become too batting-friendly in the current era. Regarded as one of the greatest fast bowlers of all time, Akhtar lashed out at the International Cricket Council (ICC) for the current rules in international cricket which have given batters around the world too much leverage.

Rules such as the use of two new balls, adequate reviews for the batters and the limitations on bouncers are making cricket a one-sided game, as per Akhtar. The former Pakistan pacer jokingly suggested that the legendary Sachin Tendulkar would have scored 1 lakh runs had he been playing in the current era.

Akhtar lauded Sachin for scoring an exceptional amount of runs despite playing against some of the best bowlers in the history of cricket. Sachin is the leading run-getter in international cricket with a staggering 34,357 runs in international cricket across formats. He is the all-time highest run-getter in both Tests and ODIs.

"You have two new balls. You have made the rules stricter. You give so much leverage to batsmen nowadays. You now allow three reviews. If we had three reviews during the time of Sachin, he would have made 1 lakh runs," Akhtar said during a chat with former India head coach Ravi Shastri on his YouTube channel.&nbsp;

“I really pity him. The reason I pity Sachin is he initially played against Wasim (Akram) and Waqar (Younis), he played against Shane Warne, then he faced (Brett) Lee and Shoaib (Akhtar), and later he played the next generation of fast bowlers. That's why I call him a very tough batsman,” he added.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sourav-ganguly-told-ravi-shastri-boss-its-time-to-go-personal-attacks-have-hurt-india-ex-pakistan-captain-448343">Ganguly told Shastri 'boss it's time to go', personal attacks have hurt India: Ex-Pakistan captain</a>

Akhtar believes cricket has become batting-oriented these days and the old charm of fast bowlers flying in and bowling full throttle against the batters has evaded.

“It's very batting-oriented cricket nowadays. Earlier, As a batsman, even you would enjoy fast bowlers approaching you with hair flying, bowling bouncers," said the former Pakistan pacer, who troubled some of the best batters of his era with his raw pace.

Akhtar picked 444 wickets across all formats in international cricket. He continues to remain associated with the game as an expert and never shies away from sharing bold opinions of cricketing matters.

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Former Pakistan pacer Shoaib Akhtar believes cricket has become too batting-friendly in the current era. Regarded as one of the greatest fast bowlers of all time, Akhtar lashed out at the International Cricket Council (ICC) for the current rules in international cricket which have given batters around the world too much leverage.

Former Pakistan pacer Shoaib Akhtar believes cricket has become too batting-friendly in the current era. Regarded as one of the greatest fast bowlers of all time, Akhtar lashed out at the International Cricket Council (ICC) for the current rules in international cricket which have given batters around the world too much leverage. Rules such as the use of two new balls, adequate reviews for the batters and the limitations on bouncers are making cricket a one-sided game, as per Akhtar. The former Pakistan pacer jokingly suggested that the legendary Sachin Tendulkar would have scored 1 lakh runs had he been playing in the current era. Akhtar lauded Sachin for scoring an exceptional amount of runs despite playing against some of the best bowlers in the history of cricket. Sachin is the leading run-getter in international cricket with a staggering 34,357 runs in international cricket across formats. He is the all-time highest run-getter in both Tests and ODIs. "You have two new balls. You have made the rules stricter. You give so much leverage to batsmen nowadays. You now allow three reviews. If we had three reviews during the time of Sachin, he would have made 1 lakh runs," Akhtar said during a chat with former India head coach Ravi Shastri on his YouTube channel. “I really pity him. The reason I pity Sachin is he initially played against Wasim (Akram) and Waqar (Younis), he played against Shane Warne, then he faced (Brett) Lee and Shoaib (Akhtar), and later he played the next generation of fast bowlers. That's why I call him a very tough batsman,” he added. Also Read: Ganguly told Shastri 'boss it's time to go', personal attacks have hurt India: Ex-Pakistan captain Akhtar believes cricket has become batting-oriented these days and the old charm of fast bowlers flying in and bowling full throttle against the batters has evaded. “It's very batting-oriented cricket nowadays. Earlier, As a batsman, even you would enjoy fast bowlers approaching you with hair flying, bowling bouncers," said the former Pakistan pacer, who troubled some of the best batters of his era with his raw pace. Akhtar picked 444 wickets across all formats in international cricket. He continues to remain associated with the game as an expert and never shies away from sharing bold opinions of cricketing matters.

'Sachin would have made 1 lakh runs': Shoaib Akhtar slams ICC for extra leverage to batters in current era

Netherlands fast bowler Vivian Kingma has been suspended for four ODIs/T20Is for breaching Level 3 of the ICC Code of Conduct during the third match of the ICC Men`s Cricket World Cup Super League series against Afghanistan in Doha on Tuesday.

Kingma was found to have breached article 2.14 of the ICC Code of Conduct for Players and Player Support Personnel, which relates to "changing the condition of the ball in breach of clause 41.3 of the ICC Standard Test Match, ODI and T20I Playing Conditions."

"Apart from the four suspension points that resulted in the sanction, five demerit points have also been added to the disciplinary record of Kingma, for whom it was the first offence in a 24-month period," stated an official ICC release.

The incident occurred in the 31st over of Afghanistan`s innings, when the fast bowler changed the condition of the ball by scratching it with his nails.

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Kingma admitted the offence and accepted the sanction proposed by Wendell La Brooy of the Emirates ICC International Panel of Match Referees and ratified by the ICC Cricket Operations department as per the COVID-19 interim playing regulations.

There was no need for a formal hearing.On-field umpires Ahmed Shah Pakteen and Ahmed Shah Durrani, third umpire Bismillah Jan Shinwari and fourth umpire Izatullah Safi leveled the charge.

Level 3 breaches carry a penalty of between four and 12 suspension points and five or six demerit points.As each suspension point equates to a ban from one ODI or T20I, whatever comes first for the player or player support personnel, Kingma will miss the next four matches that his team plays in either format.&nbsp;

Netherlands fast bowler Vivian Kingma has been suspended for four ODIs/T20Is for breaching Level 3 of the ICC Code of Conduct during the third match of the ICC Men`s Cricket World Cup Super League series against Afghanistan in Doha on Tuesday.

Netherlands fast bowler Vivian Kingma has been suspended for four ODIs/T20Is for breaching Level 3 of the ICC Code of Conduct during the third match of the ICC Men`s Cricket World Cup Super League series against Afghanistan in Doha on Tuesday. Kingma was found to have breached article 2.14 of the ICC Code of Conduct for Players and Player Support Personnel, which relates to "changing the condition of the ball in breach of clause 41.3 of the ICC Standard Test Match, ODI and T20I Playing Conditions." "Apart from the four suspension points that resulted in the sanction, five demerit points have also been added to the disciplinary record of Kingma, for whom it was the first offence in a 24-month period," stated an official ICC release. The incident occurred in the 31st over of Afghanistan`s innings, when the fast bowler changed the condition of the ball by scratching it with his nails. Read Also | Australia tour: Kusal Mendis, Danushka Gunathilaka back in action for Sri Lanka Kingma admitted the offence and accepted the sanction proposed by Wendell La Brooy of the Emirates ICC International Panel of Match Referees and ratified by the ICC Cricket Operations department as per the COVID-19 interim playing regulations. There was no need for a formal hearing.On-field umpires Ahmed Shah Pakteen and Ahmed Shah Durrani, third umpire Bismillah Jan Shinwari and fourth umpire Izatullah Safi leveled the charge. Level 3 breaches carry a penalty of between four and 12 suspension points and five or six demerit points.As each suspension point equates to a ban from one ODI or T20I, whatever comes first for the player or player support personnel, Kingma will miss the next four matches that his team plays in either format.

Netherlands pacer Kingma charged of ball tampering, disqualified for four matches

Brendan Taylor, former Zimbabwe captain, has made heads turn with his glaring claim on Monday (January 24). The veteran keeper-batsman accepted that he was conned and bribed by an Indian businessman for spot-fixing matches at the international level during a visit to India in 2019.

In late 2019, Zimbabwe cricket was in dire straits. Their players were reeling under financial crisis as the Zimbabwe Cricket Board (ZNC) wasn't able to pay the national players. In addition, the International Cricket Council (ICC)&nbsp;had even suspended Zimbabwe after the ZCB was not able to keep out government’s interference with the board’s administration. Thus, Taylor was offered a visit to India amid all these uncertain times -- with regard to&nbsp;sponsorships and the potential launch of a T20 competition in the African nation.&nbsp;

Taylor revealed that while he was reluctant, he travelled to India for the sake of revamping his fortunes. However, he was offered drugs and blackmailed for spot-fixing international matches. While Taylor has revealed that he didn't fix any games, he is guilty of accepting the money and drugs.

The 35-year-old cricketer shared a four-page statement on his official Twitter handle and&nbsp;captioned it, "To my family, friends and supporters. Here is my full statement. Thank you!"

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To my family, friends and supporters. Here is my full statement. Thank you! <a href="https://t.co/sVCckD4PMV">pic.twitter.com/sVCckD4PMV</a>
— Brendan Taylor (@BrendanTaylor86) <a href="https://twitter.com/BrendanTaylor86/status/1485522867768991745?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 24, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Taylor narrated the whole incident and said,&nbsp;"In late October 2019, | was approached by an Indian businessman requesting that I attend India to discuss sponsorships and the potential launch of a T20 competition in Zimbabwe and was advised that | would be paid USD$15 000 to make the journey."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indian-batter-smriti-mandhana-named-icc-womens-cricketer-of-the-year-2021-447084">Indian batter Smriti Mandhana named ICC Women's Cricketer of The Year 2021</a>

The veteran batter further revealed that&nbsp;the businessman and his colleagues had taken him for a dinner on the last night of his visit to the Asian country.&nbsp;"We had drinks and during the course of the evening they openly offered me cocaine, which they themselves engaged in, and | foolishly took the bait.&nbsp;I was handed the USD$15 000 but was told this was now a ‘deposit’ for spot fixing and that an additional USD$20 000 would be paid once the “job” was complete. I took the money so I could get on a plane and leave India. I felt I had no choice at the time because saying no was clearly not an option. All I knew was I had to get out of there,"&nbsp;the Harare-born player&nbsp;claimed.

"It took me 4 months to report this offence and interaction to the ICC. I acknowledge this was too long of a time but I thought I could protect everyone and in particular, my family. I approached the ICC on my own terms and I hoped that if I explained my predicament, my genuine fear for our safety and wellbeing, that they would understand the delay.&nbsp;Unfortunately, they did not, but I cannot feign ignorance in this regard. I have attended many anti-corruption seminars over the years and we know that time is of the essence when making reports," Taylor further wrote.

Taylor has been a great servant of the game and a superstar in Zimbabwe cricket. The star batter, who has 2,320, 6,684 and 934 runs in Tests, ODIs and T20Is respectively, has also advised youngsters to not fall into such traps. He said, "I would like to place on record that I have never been involved in any form of match-fixing. I may be many things but I am not a cheat. My love for the beautiful game of cricket far outweighs and surpasses any threats which could be thrown my way."

Taylor is set to fan multi-year ban. The cricketer has already stated that he would accept ICC's decision after failing to report the serious matter on time.

Brendan Taylor, former Zimbabwe captain, has made heads turn with his glaring claim on Monday (January 24). The veteran keeper-batsman accepted that he was conned and bribed by an Indian businessman for spot-fixing matches at the international level during a visit to India in 2019.

Brendan Taylor, former Zimbabwe captain, has made heads turn with his glaring claim on Monday (January 24). The veteran keeper-batsman accepted that he was conned and bribed by an Indian businessman for spot-fixing matches at the international level during a visit to India in 2019. In late 2019, Zimbabwe cricket was in dire straits. Their players were reeling under financial crisis as the Zimbabwe Cricket Board (ZNC) wasn't able to pay the national players. In addition, the International Cricket Council (ICC) had even suspended Zimbabwe after the ZCB was not able to keep out government’s interference with the board’s administration. Thus, Taylor was offered a visit to India amid all these uncertain times -- with regard to sponsorships and the potential launch of a T20 competition in the African nation. Taylor revealed that while he was reluctant, he travelled to India for the sake of revamping his fortunes. However, he was offered drugs and blackmailed for spot-fixing international matches. While Taylor has revealed that he didn't fix any games, he is guilty of accepting the money and drugs. The 35-year-old cricketer shared a four-page statement on his official Twitter handle and captioned it, "To my family, friends and supporters. Here is my full statement. Thank you!" To my family, friends and supporters. Here is my full statement. Thank you! pic.twitter.com/sVCckD4PMV — Brendan Taylor (@BrendanTaylor86) January 24, 2022 × Taylor narrated the whole incident and said, "In late October 2019, | was approached by an Indian businessman requesting that I attend India to discuss sponsorships and the potential launch of a T20 competition in Zimbabwe and was advised that | would be paid USD$15 000 to make the journey." ALSO READ | Indian batter Smriti Mandhana named ICC Women's Cricketer of The Year 2021 The veteran batter further revealed that the businessman and his colleagues had taken him for a dinner on the last night of his visit to the Asian country. "We had drinks and during the course of the evening they openly offered me cocaine, which they themselves engaged in, and | foolishly took the bait. I was handed the USD$15 000 but was told this was now a ‘deposit’ for spot fixing and that an additional USD$20 000 would be paid once the “job” was complete. I took the money so I could get on a plane and leave India. I felt I had no choice at the time because saying no was clearly not an option. All I knew was I had to get out of there," the Harare-born player claimed. "It took me 4 months to report this offence and interaction to the ICC. I acknowledge this was too long of a time but I thought I could protect everyone and in particular, my family. I approached the ICC on my own terms and I hoped that if I explained my predicament, my genuine fear for our safety and wellbeing, that they would understand the delay. Unfortunately, they did not, but I cannot feign ignorance in this regard. I have attended many anti-corruption seminars over the years and we know that time is of the essence when making reports," Taylor further wrote. Taylor has been a great servant of the game and a superstar in Zimbabwe cricket. The star batter, who has 2,320, 6,684 and 934 runs in Tests, ODIs and T20Is respectively, has also advised youngsters to not fall into such traps. He said, "I would like to place on record that I have never been involved in any form of match-fixing. I may be many things but I am not a cheat. My love for the beautiful game of cricket far outweighs and surpasses any threats which could be thrown my way." Taylor is set to fan multi-year ban. The cricketer has already stated that he would accept ICC's decision after failing to report the serious matter on time.

Brendan Taylor makes heads turn, accepts being conned and blackmailed for spot-fixing, set to face ICC's ban

India's star opening batter Smriti Mandhana has been named the ICC Women's Cricketer of The Year 2021. Mandhana was in sublime form across all three formats throughout the year and enjoyed a prolific run with the willow. Despite India enduring a difficult year in terms of results, Mandhana was at his personal best and played an instrumental role in her team's success.

The stylish left-hander, who is known for her elegance and terrific technique, continued to pile on runs one game after another for the Indian team. She notched up an impressive 855 runs in 22 international matches at an average of over 38, including one century and five half-centuries to clinch the top honour at the ICC awards.

Mandhana has won the prestigious ICC Women's Cricketer of The Year award for the second time in her career having won it for the first time in 2018. A vital cog in India's batting line-up across all formats, Mandhana played some terrific knocks for the team throughout the year.

Mandhana was in fine form during the home series against South Africa. India lost the ODI series 4-1 before suffering a 2-1 defeat in the T20Is. She scored 147 runs in the ODIs and followed it up with 66 runs in the three T20Is. The southpaw then went on to score her maiden pink-ball hundred in India's first pink-ball Test against Australia Down Under.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-paid-price-for-that-sanjay-manjrekar-blames-ashwins-return-for-rahul-cos-3-0-series-loss-vs-sa-447078">'India paid price for that': Sanjay Manjrekar blames Ashwin's return for Rahul &amp; Co.'s 3-0 series loss vs SA</a>

It was also Mandhana's maiden hundred in Tests as her 127-run-knock helped India draw the only Test against the Aussies in their own backyard.&nbsp;Mandhana was also in a&nbsp;top-notch form in the ODI series as he notched up 124 runs in three games against the Aussies at an average of over 41. India had lost the three-match series 2-1.

India's star opening batter Smriti Mandhana has been named the ICC Women's Cricketer of The Year 2021. Mandhana was in sublime form across all three formats throughout the year and enjoyed a prolific run with the willow.

India's star opening batter Smriti Mandhana has been named the ICC Women's Cricketer of The Year 2021. Mandhana was in sublime form across all three formats throughout the year and enjoyed a prolific run with the willow. Despite India enduring a difficult year in terms of results, Mandhana was at his personal best and played an instrumental role in her team's success. The stylish left-hander, who is known for her elegance and terrific technique, continued to pile on runs one game after another for the Indian team. She notched up an impressive 855 runs in 22 international matches at an average of over 38, including one century and five half-centuries to clinch the top honour at the ICC awards. Mandhana has won the prestigious ICC Women's Cricketer of The Year award for the second time in her career having won it for the first time in 2018. A vital cog in India's batting line-up across all formats, Mandhana played some terrific knocks for the team throughout the year. Mandhana was in fine form during the home series against South Africa. India lost the ODI series 4-1 before suffering a 2-1 defeat in the T20Is. She scored 147 runs in the ODIs and followed it up with 66 runs in the three T20Is. The southpaw then went on to score her maiden pink-ball hundred in India's first pink-ball Test against Australia Down Under. Also Read: 'India paid price for that': Sanjay Manjrekar blames Ashwin's return for Rahul & Co.'s 3-0 series loss vs SA It was also Mandhana's maiden hundred in Tests as her 127-run-knock helped India draw the only Test against the Aussies in their own backyard. Mandhana was also in a top-notch form in the ODI series as he notched up 124 runs in three games against the Aussies at an average of over 41. India had lost the three-match series 2-1.

Indian batter Smriti Mandhana named ICC Women's Cricketer of The Year 2021

South Africa batter Janneman Malan on Sunday was named as ICC`s Emerging Men`s Cricketer of 2021. Malan scored 715 runs in 17 international matches at a 47.66 average and 101.85 strike rate, including two centuries and three fifties.

Even though Malan made his international debut for South Africa in 2019, he couldn`t establish himself as a permanent name in white-ball cricket until one breathtaking knock after another at the top of the order in 2021.

Malan played a total of eight ODIs and nine T20Is in the year, but it was the one-day format where he showed his real potential. His voyage started with the T20I series in Pakistan, followed by another ODI and T20I series against the same side at home.

Read Also |&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/sports/why-dont-you-look-at-fast-bowlers-shoaib-akhtar-backs-jasprit-bumrah-to-become-indias-next-captain-446897">'Why don't you look at fast bowlers?': Shoaib Akhtar backs Jasprit Bumrah to become India's next captain</a>

At the end of those two series, he had already shown the world his ability with two excellent knocks of 70 and 55 in Centurion. But his moment of fame arrived when he smashed an unbeaten 177, the fourth-highest score by a South African in ODIs, against Ireland in Dublin.

He followed that up with another excellent knock of 121 against Sri Lanka in Colombo and thus ended the year on a good note. Malan`s most memorable knock in 2021 has to be his unbeaten 177 against Ireland. He looked absolutely on song that day and played numerous exquisite shots around the ground. Whether it was a spinner or a pacer, he treated them with equal disdain.

His innings consisted of a total of 16 fours and 6 massive sixes, which sums up how the bowlers suffered in that match. The 25-year-old also built a terrific 225-run opening stand with Quinton de Kock, who scored a ton in that match as well.

South Africa batter Janneman Malan on Sunday was named as ICC`s Emerging Men`s Cricketer of 2021. Malan scored 715 runs in 17 international matches at a 47.66 average and 101.

South Africa batter Janneman Malan on Sunday was named as ICC`s Emerging Men`s Cricketer of 2021. Malan scored 715 runs in 17 international matches at a 47.66 average and 101.85 strike rate, including two centuries and three fifties. Even though Malan made his international debut for South Africa in 2019, he couldn`t establish himself as a permanent name in white-ball cricket until one breathtaking knock after another at the top of the order in 2021. Malan played a total of eight ODIs and nine T20Is in the year, but it was the one-day format where he showed his real potential. His voyage started with the T20I series in Pakistan, followed by another ODI and T20I series against the same side at home. Read Also | 'Why don't you look at fast bowlers?': Shoaib Akhtar backs Jasprit Bumrah to become India's next captain At the end of those two series, he had already shown the world his ability with two excellent knocks of 70 and 55 in Centurion. But his moment of fame arrived when he smashed an unbeaten 177, the fourth-highest score by a South African in ODIs, against Ireland in Dublin. He followed that up with another excellent knock of 121 against Sri Lanka in Colombo and thus ended the year on a good note. Malan`s most memorable knock in 2021 has to be his unbeaten 177 against Ireland. He looked absolutely on song that day and played numerous exquisite shots around the ground. Whether it was a spinner or a pacer, he treated them with equal disdain. His innings consisted of a total of 16 fours and 6 massive sixes, which sums up how the bowlers suffered in that match. The 25-year-old also built a terrific 225-run opening stand with Quinton de Kock, who scored a ton in that match as well.

ICC names South Africa's Janneman Malan Emerging Male Cricketer of 2021

The International Cricket Council (ICC), on Thursday (January 20), announced the Men's ODI team of 2021. Pakistan's Babar Azam has been named as the captain of the line-up, which includes no player from India, England and Australia. On Wednesday, the ICC had also shared the Men's T20I team of 2021, which didn't comprise a single Indian and had Babar as the captain.

Talking about the ODI XI, Ireland's Paul Stirling made the cut. He ended the calendar year with&nbsp;885 runs including 3 hundreds. South Africa's Janneman Malan was named the second opener with Babar at No. 3&nbsp;whereas Fakhar Zaman took the No. 4 spot. The rest of the middle-order comprises Rassie van der Dussen, who played a match-winning 129* versus India in the first ODI on Wednesday (January 19), along with Bangladeshi pair Shakib Al Hasan and Mushfiqur Rahim. Apart from Shakib, Sri Lanka's Wanindu Hasaranga and Ireland's Simi Singh are the two all-rounders whereas Mustafizur Rahman and Dushmantha Chameera were the two pacers included.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-mens-t20i-team-of-2021-babar-azam-leads-star-studded-xi-no-team-india-player-makes-the-cut-446012">ICC Men's T20I team of 2021: Babar Azam leads star-studded XI, no Team India player makes the cut</a>

Babar had a great run in 2021, being named as the white-ball captain altogether by the ICC. Under Babar, Pakistan won the ODI series in South Africa and also reached the semi-finals of the 2021 T20 World Cup, held in the UAE.

The list had no mention of some of the big-ticket players, such as Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul, Shikhar Dhawan, Jos Buttler, David Warner, Jasprit Bumrah, Pat Cummins, etc. For the unversed, this was the first time since 2004 that no Indian was named in the Men's ODI Team of the Year.&nbsp;

While no Indian featured in the team, it is to be noted that the senior men's team played only a handful of ODIs in 2021 (same goes for other big teams as well). India played six ODIs -- winning four of them -- with many regulars missing the 50-over leg versus Sri Lanka, in the island nation, in mid-2021.

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ICC Men's ODI Team of the Year:&nbsp;Babar Azam (captain), Paul Stirling, Janneman Malan, Fakhar Zaman, Rassie van der Dussen, Shakib Al Hasan, Mushfiqur Rahim (wicketkeeper), Wanidu Hasaranga, Mustafizur Rahman, Simi Singh, Dushmantha Chameera.

The International Cricket Council (ICC), on Thursday (January 20), announced the Men's ODI team of 2021. Pakistan's Babar Azam has been named as the captain of the line-up, which includes no player from India, England and Australia.

The International Cricket Council (ICC), on Thursday (January 20), announced the Men's ODI team of 2021. Pakistan's Babar Azam has been named as the captain of the line-up, which includes no player from India, England and Australia. On Wednesday, the ICC had also shared the Men's T20I team of 2021, which didn't comprise a single Indian and had Babar as the captain. Talking about the ODI XI, Ireland's Paul Stirling made the cut. He ended the calendar year with 885 runs including 3 hundreds. South Africa's Janneman Malan was named the second opener with Babar at No. 3 whereas Fakhar Zaman took the No. 4 spot. The rest of the middle-order comprises Rassie van der Dussen, who played a match-winning 129* versus India in the first ODI on Wednesday (January 19), along with Bangladeshi pair Shakib Al Hasan and Mushfiqur Rahim. Apart from Shakib, Sri Lanka's Wanindu Hasaranga and Ireland's Simi Singh are the two all-rounders whereas Mustafizur Rahman and Dushmantha Chameera were the two pacers included. ALSO READ | ICC Men's T20I team of 2021: Babar Azam leads star-studded XI, no Team India player makes the cut Babar had a great run in 2021, being named as the white-ball captain altogether by the ICC. Under Babar, Pakistan won the ODI series in South Africa and also reached the semi-finals of the 2021 T20 World Cup, held in the UAE. The list had no mention of some of the big-ticket players, such as Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul, Shikhar Dhawan, Jos Buttler, David Warner, Jasprit Bumrah, Pat Cummins, etc. For the unversed, this was the first time since 2004 that no Indian was named in the Men's ODI Team of the Year. While no Indian featured in the team, it is to be noted that the senior men's team played only a handful of ODIs in 2021 (same goes for other big teams as well). India played six ODIs -- winning four of them -- with many regulars missing the 50-over leg versus Sri Lanka, in the island nation, in mid-2021. ALSO READ | ICC Men's Test team of 2021: Rohit Sharma, Rishabh Pant and R Ashwin included in star-studded line-up ICC Men's ODI Team of the Year: Babar Azam (captain), Paul Stirling, Janneman Malan, Fakhar Zaman, Rassie van der Dussen, Shakib Al Hasan, Mushfiqur Rahim (wicketkeeper), Wanidu Hasaranga, Mustafizur Rahman, Simi Singh, Dushmantha Chameera.

ICC Men's ODI team of 2021: No Team India player makes the cut in Babar Azam-led XI

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has named two veteran players from the Indian women's cricket team in the ODI Team of the Year for 2021, on Thursday (January 20). Heather Knight has been selected as the team's captain.

However, no Indian were named in the ICC Men's ODI Team of the Year for 2021, which is led by Pakistan captain Babar Azam. Also, it was the first time since 2004 no Indian player made the Men's ODI team of the year.&nbsp;

As part of the ICC Women's T20I Team of the Year for 2021, Smriti Mandhana was named the lone Indian.

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In fact, Mithali Raj, the Indian captain and veteran batsman, compiled the same number of runs and finished with the exact average as Beaumont. However, the player didn't score a century this year but managed to shine with as many as six half-centuries.Her runs came when India were in dire straits, making her contribution even more significant.

Jhulan, on the other hand, continues to prove herself as a formidable opponent. The veteran player claimed 15 wickets in 2021 and maintained an impressive economy rate of 3.77. Any team can benefit from having an experienced bowler like her, who can keep runs under control along with picking wickets.

India will need Mithali and Jhulan to be at their best in order to win the upcoming Women's World Cup in 2022, which begins in March in New Zealand. The lead up to the season-ending event will feature a limited-overs series between India and New Zealand.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has named two veteran players from the Indian women's cricket team in the ODI Team of the Year for 2021, on Thursday (January 20).

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has named two veteran players from the Indian women's cricket team in the ODI Team of the Year for 2021, on Thursday (January 20). Heather Knight has been selected as the team's captain. However, no Indian were named in the ICC Men's ODI Team of the Year for 2021, which is led by Pakistan captain Babar Azam. Also, it was the first time since 2004 no Indian player made the Men's ODI team of the year. As part of the ICC Women's T20I Team of the Year for 2021, Smriti Mandhana was named the lone Indian. Read Also | Sri Lanka tour of Australia: Lankans to play two T20Is in Sydney in revised series schedule In fact, Mithali Raj, the Indian captain and veteran batsman, compiled the same number of runs and finished with the exact average as Beaumont. However, the player didn't score a century this year but managed to shine with as many as six half-centuries.Her runs came when India were in dire straits, making her contribution even more significant. Jhulan, on the other hand, continues to prove herself as a formidable opponent. The veteran player claimed 15 wickets in 2021 and maintained an impressive economy rate of 3.77. Any team can benefit from having an experienced bowler like her, who can keep runs under control along with picking wickets. India will need Mithali and Jhulan to be at their best in order to win the upcoming Women's World Cup in 2022, which begins in March in New Zealand. The lead up to the season-ending event will feature a limited-overs series between India and New Zealand.

ICC Women's ODI Team of the Year 2021 includes Mithali Raj, Jhulan Goswami

Star India opener Smriti Mandhana was on Wednesday named in the ICC T20 women's Team of the Year for her superlative show in the format in 2021 but no Indian made the men's side.

The stylish Southpaw, who is the Indian team's vice-captain in the format, was the country's highest scorer in the format in 2021 with 255 runs at an average of 31.87.

The 25-year-old scored two fifties in the nine matches she played and got her team off to rapid starts regularly, as evident up by her strike-rate of 131.44.

While Mandhana was the only Indian, several members of the English side feature in the team with Nat Scriver being named captain. The experienced England all-rounder produced many impactful performances throughout the year. Batting in the middle-order, Sciver scored a total of 153 runs, including one fifty, and she also picked up 10 wickets at an excellent average of 20.20.

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Accompanying Mandhana at the top is England's Tammy Beaumont. The 30-year-old's reliable presence at the top of the order helped England off to steady starts regularly. She played nine matches and amassed 303 runs at an average of 33.66, including three fifties.

Danni Wyatt, wicketkeeper Amy Jones and spinner Sophie Ecclestone are the other English players in the side. 
Gaby Lewis of Ireland, South African trio of Laura Wolvaardt, Shabnim Ismail and Marizanne Kapp and Zimbabwe's Loryn Phiri make up the rest of the playing XI.

Read Also |&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/sports/what-are-you-doing-rizwan-recalls-hilarious-chat-with-kohli-during-high-voltage-indo-pak-t20-wc-tie-445969">'What are you doing' - Rizwan recalls hilarious chat with Kohli during high-voltage Indo-Pak T20 WC tie</a>

Teams:

Women: Smriti Mandhana (India), Tammy Beaumont (England), Danni Wyatt (England), Gaby Lewis (Ireland), Nat Sciver (c) (England), Amy Jones (England), Laura Wolvaardt (South Africa), Marizanne Kapp (South Africa), Sophie Ecclestone (England), Loryn Phiri (Zimbabwe), Shabnim Ismail (South Africa).

Men: Jos Buttler (England), Mohammad Rizwan (Paksitan), Babar Azam (c) (Pakistan), Aiden Markram (South Africa) , Mitchell Marsh (Australia), David Miller (South Africa), Tabraiz Shamsi (South Africa), Josh Hazlewood (Australia), Wanindu Hasanranga (Sri Lanka) , Mustafizur Rahaman (Bangladesh, Shaheen Afridi (Pakistan).&nbsp;

Star India opener Smriti Mandhana was on Wednesday named in the ICC T20 women's Team of the Year for her superlative show in the format in 2021 but no Indian made the men's side.

Star India opener Smriti Mandhana was on Wednesday named in the ICC T20 women's Team of the Year for her superlative show in the format in 2021 but no Indian made the men's side. The stylish Southpaw, who is the Indian team's vice-captain in the format, was the country's highest scorer in the format in 2021 with 255 runs at an average of 31.87. The 25-year-old scored two fifties in the nine matches she played and got her team off to rapid starts regularly, as evident up by her strike-rate of 131.44. While Mandhana was the only Indian, several members of the English side feature in the team with Nat Scriver being named captain. The experienced England all-rounder produced many impactful performances throughout the year. Batting in the middle-order, Sciver scored a total of 153 runs, including one fifty, and she also picked up 10 wickets at an excellent average of 20.20. Read Also | IndvSA: KL Rahul becomes second Indian to achieve unique captaincy feat during ODI series opener Accompanying Mandhana at the top is England's Tammy Beaumont. The 30-year-old's reliable presence at the top of the order helped England off to steady starts regularly. She played nine matches and amassed 303 runs at an average of 33.66, including three fifties. Danni Wyatt, wicketkeeper Amy Jones and spinner Sophie Ecclestone are the other English players in the side. Gaby Lewis of Ireland, South African trio of Laura Wolvaardt, Shabnim Ismail and Marizanne Kapp and Zimbabwe's Loryn Phiri make up the rest of the playing XI. Read Also | 'What are you doing' - Rizwan recalls hilarious chat with Kohli during high-voltage Indo-Pak T20 WC tie Teams: Women: Smriti Mandhana (India), Tammy Beaumont (England), Danni Wyatt (England), Gaby Lewis (Ireland), Nat Sciver (c) (England), Amy Jones (England), Laura Wolvaardt (South Africa), Marizanne Kapp (South Africa), Sophie Ecclestone (England), Loryn Phiri (Zimbabwe), Shabnim Ismail (South Africa). Men: Jos Buttler (England), Mohammad Rizwan (Paksitan), Babar Azam (c) (Pakistan), Aiden Markram (South Africa) , Mitchell Marsh (Australia), David Miller (South Africa), Tabraiz Shamsi (South Africa), Josh Hazlewood (Australia), Wanindu Hasanranga (Sri Lanka) , Mustafizur Rahaman (Bangladesh, Shaheen Afridi (Pakistan).

Smriti Mandhana named in ICC T20 women's Team of 2021

Indian captain Virat Kohli and other players have been subjected to immense criticism following their outburst at the stump-mic during Day 3 of the recently-concluded series-deciding third Test against South Africa in Cape Town. Indian players were seen openly expressing their frustration and accusing the official host broadcaster of controlling the hawk-eye projection after a DRS call went against them.

Dean Elgar was trapped lbw by R Ashwin during Soth Africa's second innings on Day 3 and was adjudged out by the on-field umpire. He later went for a review and managed to survive as the hawk-eye projected the ball to be going over the stumps despite the replays suggesting that the batter had been hit below his knee by the ball.

A controversy erupted soon as Indian skipper Kohli walked towards the stump-mic to aim a jibe at SuperSport - the host broadcaster. R Ashwin and KL Rahul also joined in and aimed digs at the broadcaster, accusing them of controlling the DRS. The Indian team were warned about their conduct during the day's play but were not charged by the ICC.

As per a report in ESPNCricinfo, the ICC match officials had a word with the Indian team management post the conclusion of the Test match and warned them about their on-field conduct. There was no charge levelled against India for a code of conduct breach.

"Focus on your team as well when they shine the ball eh, not just the opposition. Trying to catch people all the time," Kohli was heard saying on the stump-mic after Elgar managed to survive the lbw decision.&nbsp;"You should find better ways to win, SuperSport," said Ashwin as he also vented out on the host broadcaster.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dream-turned-into-a-nightmare-suni-gavaskar-baffled-by-indias-tactics-in-third-test-against-south-africa-444945">'Dream turned into a nightmare': Suni Gavaskar baffled by India's tactics in third Test against South Africa</a>

Kohli was asked to share his views on the controversial episode during the post-match presser on Friday after India's seven-wicket loss in the third Test. The Indian skipper chose to remain silent on the issue and said he didn't want to trigger any controversy.

"That one moment seems very nice and very exciting to make a controversy out of, which honestly I'm not interested in making a controversy of it at all. It was just a moment that passed and we moved on from it, and just kept focusing on the game and trying to pick up wickets," Kohi said in the post-match presser.

Indian captain Virat Kohli and other players have been subjected to immense criticism following their outburst at the stump-mic during Day 3 of the recently-concluded series-deciding third Test against South Africa in Cape Town.

Indian captain Virat Kohli and other players have been subjected to immense criticism following their outburst at the stump-mic during Day 3 of the recently-concluded series-deciding third Test against South Africa in Cape Town. Indian players were seen openly expressing their frustration and accusing the official host broadcaster of controlling the hawk-eye projection after a DRS call went against them. Dean Elgar was trapped lbw by R Ashwin during Soth Africa's second innings on Day 3 and was adjudged out by the on-field umpire. He later went for a review and managed to survive as the hawk-eye projected the ball to be going over the stumps despite the replays suggesting that the batter had been hit below his knee by the ball. A controversy erupted soon as Indian skipper Kohli walked towards the stump-mic to aim a jibe at SuperSport - the host broadcaster. R Ashwin and KL Rahul also joined in and aimed digs at the broadcaster, accusing them of controlling the DRS. The Indian team were warned about their conduct during the day's play but were not charged by the ICC. As per a report in ESPNCricinfo, the ICC match officials had a word with the Indian team management post the conclusion of the Test match and warned them about their on-field conduct. There was no charge levelled against India for a code of conduct breach. "Focus on your team as well when they shine the ball eh, not just the opposition. Trying to catch people all the time," Kohli was heard saying on the stump-mic after Elgar managed to survive the lbw decision. "You should find better ways to win, SuperSport," said Ashwin as he also vented out on the host broadcaster. Also Read: 'Dream turned into a nightmare': Suni Gavaskar baffled by India's tactics in third Test against South Africa Kohli was asked to share his views on the controversial episode during the post-match presser on Friday after India's seven-wicket loss in the third Test. The Indian skipper chose to remain silent on the issue and said he didn't want to trigger any controversy. "That one moment seems very nice and very exciting to make a controversy out of, which honestly I'm not interested in making a controversy of it at all. It was just a moment that passed and we moved on from it, and just kept focusing on the game and trying to pick up wickets," Kohi said in the post-match presser.

No charges but Virat Kohli & Co. warned by ICC officials after stump-mic outburst against South Africa

International Cricket Council (ICC) CEO Geoff Allardice, on Thursday said that he has received no communication from Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chief Ramiz Raja regarding the four-nation T20I series, involving both India and Pakistan.

Raja on Tuesday had said that he would make a proposal to the ICC about holding a four nations T20I series comprising both India and Pakistan to be held every year.

He voiced his opinion that he wants to see India, Pakistan, Australia, and England square off in the T20I series every year. The PCB chief also said that if this series indeed goes ahead, then the profits would be shared on a percentage basis with all ICC members.

"We have not had any correspondence or communication with Ramiz Raja regarding any of the ideas. Till we get more detail on what he is thinking, it is hard to comment. At this stage, we have had no communication with Ramiz Raja regarding his idea," said Allardice during a virtual interaction with select media on Thursday.

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Allardice also said that the management of the bio-secure bubble would be a real challenge at the upcoming U19 World Cup, adding that the bio-bubble in place would not be a strict one as the apex cricketing body wants players to enjoy the experience of playing in a World Cup.

The U19 World Cup will get underway in Guyana with hosts West Indies taking on Australia in the tournament opener on Friday, and a concurrent second game between Sri Lanka and Scotland will also take place in Georgetown.

"It`s a balance between the risk of catching and passing on the virus versus the freedom that young people are going to be looking for and allow them to enjoy the experience of being involved in an Under-19 World Cup as well. I think the management of that environment over the next few weeks is probably the challenge and being able to react to whatever gets thrown our way," said Allardice.

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When asked about the bio-bubble for the World Cup, Allardice said: "We are following a similar model to the Men`s T20 World Cup in the way that we manage the type of accommodation that we are using and the COVID-19 testing frequency. We did learn from the experience in the UAE and we have had other events which have been multi-teams competitions."

"I think majority of the squad members from participating countries are vaccinated for COVID-19. The teams play their matches at a reasonable frequency. So you go to the cricket ground, you play your match, you go back to the hotel accommodation, recover, and then a day or two later, you are back again," he added.&nbsp;

International Cricket Council (ICC) CEO Geoff Allardice, on Thursday said that he has received no communication from Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chief Ramiz Raja regarding the four-nation T20I series, involving both India and Pakistan.

International Cricket Council (ICC) CEO Geoff Allardice, on Thursday said that he has received no communication from Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chief Ramiz Raja regarding the four-nation T20I series, involving both India and Pakistan. Raja on Tuesday had said that he would make a proposal to the ICC about holding a four nations T20I series comprising both India and Pakistan to be held every year. He voiced his opinion that he wants to see India, Pakistan, Australia, and England square off in the T20I series every year. The PCB chief also said that if this series indeed goes ahead, then the profits would be shared on a percentage basis with all ICC members. "We have not had any correspondence or communication with Ramiz Raja regarding any of the ideas. Till we get more detail on what he is thinking, it is hard to comment. At this stage, we have had no communication with Ramiz Raja regarding his idea," said Allardice during a virtual interaction with select media on Thursday. Read Also | India vs SA, 3rd Test: Rishabh Pant enters record books with sensational ton on Day 3 in Cape Town Allardice also said that the management of the bio-secure bubble would be a real challenge at the upcoming U19 World Cup, adding that the bio-bubble in place would not be a strict one as the apex cricketing body wants players to enjoy the experience of playing in a World Cup. The U19 World Cup will get underway in Guyana with hosts West Indies taking on Australia in the tournament opener on Friday, and a concurrent second game between Sri Lanka and Scotland will also take place in Georgetown. "It`s a balance between the risk of catching and passing on the virus versus the freedom that young people are going to be looking for and allow them to enjoy the experience of being involved in an Under-19 World Cup as well. I think the management of that environment over the next few weeks is probably the challenge and being able to react to whatever gets thrown our way," said Allardice. Read Also | England's Test captain Joe Root considering to enter IPL 2022 mega auction When asked about the bio-bubble for the World Cup, Allardice said: "We are following a similar model to the Men`s T20 World Cup in the way that we manage the type of accommodation that we are using and the COVID-19 testing frequency. We did learn from the experience in the UAE and we have had other events which have been multi-teams competitions." "I think majority of the squad members from participating countries are vaccinated for COVID-19. The teams play their matches at a reasonable frequency. So you go to the cricket ground, you play your match, you go back to the hotel accommodation, recover, and then a day or two later, you are back again," he added.

No communication from Ramiz Raja on his Four-Nation T20I series idea, reveals ICC CEO

New Zealand fast bowler Kyle Jamieson has advanced eight places to a career-best third position in the ICC Men`s Test Player Rankings after a fine show in the two-match ICC World Test Championship series against Bangladesh that ended in a 1-1 draw.

The 27-year-old, who finished with eight wickets including six in the second Test in Christchurch, is only the fifth bowler from New Zealand to touch the 825-rating point mark after Richard Hadlee (909 in November 1985), Neil Wagner (859 in December 2019), Tim Southee (839 in November 2021) and Trent Boult (825 in May 2015).

Left-arm seam bowler Boult too has advanced in the latest weekly update that includes the fourth Ashes Test and the second Test between India and South Africa, moving up three places to 12th with nine wickets in the series.

Read Also |&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/sports/kohli-has-left-behind-his-ego-gambhir-lauds-indian-skippers-gritty-79-run-knock-on-day-1-of-3rd-test-444077">Kohli has left behind his ego: Gambhir lauds Indian skipper's gritty 79-run knock on Day 1 of 3rd Test</a>

Among New Zealand`s batters, Tom Latham has advanced two places to 11th after finishing with 267 runs in the series while Devon Conway`s 244-run aggregate, which includes two centuries, has lifted him 18 places to 29th position after just five Tests.

Ross Taylor has signed off from Test cricket in 28th place, having attained a career-best fourth position and 871 rating points in December 2013. Bangladesh`s Liton Das is up 17 places to a career-best 15th position with 196 runs while Mominul Haque (up eight places to 37th) and Najmul Hossain (up 21 places to 87th) have also made notable progress among batters.

Fast bowler Ebadot Hossain has progressed 17 places to 88th with nine wickets in the series, at the end of which New Zealand and Bangladesh were on sixth and seventh positions, respectively, in the WTC points table.

The drawn fourth Test between Australia and England in Sydney sees Usman Khawaja make a memorable return to the Australian team with a Player of the Match effort. The 35-year-old left-hander`s scores of 137 and 101 not out see him re-enter the rankings in 26th position in the list led by his compatriot Marnus Labuschagne.

Read Also |&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/sports/cape-town-test-virat-kohli-back-in-form-but-dean-elgars-south-africa-take-honours-on-day-1-443985">Cape Town Test: Virat Kohli back in form but Dean Elgar's South Africa take honours on Day 1</a>

Steve Smith has leapfrogged Kane Williamson to third among batters while Scott Boland has progressed 24 places to 49th among bowlers. Cameron Green, up 11 places to 89th among batters and 10 places to 75th among bowlers, is another Australia player gaining in the rankings.

England all-rounder Ben Stokes has moved up nine places to 18th among batters with scores of 66 and 60 while Jonny Bairstow`s knocks of 113 and 41 have lifted him 16 places to 55th.

Stuart Broad is up two places to 14th and Mark Wood has gone from 41st to 38th.South Africa captain Dean Elgar`s match-winning knock of 96 not out in Johannesburg has pushed him back into the top 10 for the first time since January 2019.

His compatriot Temba Bavuma is up four places to 35th after his first innings half-century. Fast bowler Duanne Olivier has re-entered the bowlers` list in 22nd position with Lungi Ngidi (up three places to 27th) and Marco Jansen (up 43 places to 54th) also making headway.

For India, Shardul Thakur has advanced 10 places to 42nd after finishing with an eight-wicket match haul that included seven wickets in the first innings.

New Zealand fast bowler Kyle Jamieson has advanced eight places to a career-best third position in the ICC Men`s Test Player Rankings after a fine show in the two-match ICC World Test Championship series against Bangladesh that ended in a 1-1 draw.

New Zealand fast bowler Kyle Jamieson has advanced eight places to a career-best third position in the ICC Men`s Test Player Rankings after a fine show in the two-match ICC World Test Championship series against Bangladesh that ended in a 1-1 draw. The 27-year-old, who finished with eight wickets including six in the second Test in Christchurch, is only the fifth bowler from New Zealand to touch the 825-rating point mark after Richard Hadlee (909 in November 1985), Neil Wagner (859 in December 2019), Tim Southee (839 in November 2021) and Trent Boult (825 in May 2015). Left-arm seam bowler Boult too has advanced in the latest weekly update that includes the fourth Ashes Test and the second Test between India and South Africa, moving up three places to 12th with nine wickets in the series. Read Also | Kohli has left behind his ego: Gambhir lauds Indian skipper's gritty 79-run knock on Day 1 of 3rd Test Among New Zealand`s batters, Tom Latham has advanced two places to 11th after finishing with 267 runs in the series while Devon Conway`s 244-run aggregate, which includes two centuries, has lifted him 18 places to 29th position after just five Tests. Ross Taylor has signed off from Test cricket in 28th place, having attained a career-best fourth position and 871 rating points in December 2013. Bangladesh`s Liton Das is up 17 places to a career-best 15th position with 196 runs while Mominul Haque (up eight places to 37th) and Najmul Hossain (up 21 places to 87th) have also made notable progress among batters. Fast bowler Ebadot Hossain has progressed 17 places to 88th with nine wickets in the series, at the end of which New Zealand and Bangladesh were on sixth and seventh positions, respectively, in the WTC points table. The drawn fourth Test between Australia and England in Sydney sees Usman Khawaja make a memorable return to the Australian team with a Player of the Match effort. The 35-year-old left-hander`s scores of 137 and 101 not out see him re-enter the rankings in 26th position in the list led by his compatriot Marnus Labuschagne. Read Also | Cape Town Test: Virat Kohli back in form but Dean Elgar's South Africa take honours on Day 1 Steve Smith has leapfrogged Kane Williamson to third among batters while Scott Boland has progressed 24 places to 49th among bowlers. Cameron Green, up 11 places to 89th among batters and 10 places to 75th among bowlers, is another Australia player gaining in the rankings. England all-rounder Ben Stokes has moved up nine places to 18th among batters with scores of 66 and 60 while Jonny Bairstow`s knocks of 113 and 41 have lifted him 16 places to 55th. Stuart Broad is up two places to 14th and Mark Wood has gone from 41st to 38th.South Africa captain Dean Elgar`s match-winning knock of 96 not out in Johannesburg has pushed him back into the top 10 for the first time since January 2019. His compatriot Temba Bavuma is up four places to 35th after his first innings half-century. Fast bowler Duanne Olivier has re-entered the bowlers` list in 22nd position with Lungi Ngidi (up three places to 27th) and Marco Jansen (up 43 places to 54th) also making headway. For India, Shardul Thakur has advanced 10 places to 42nd after finishing with an eight-wicket match haul that included seven wickets in the first innings.

Ravichandran Ashwin holds on to second place, Kyle Jamieson climbs to third in ICC Test Bowling Rankings

India opener Mayank Agarwal was on Saturday nominated for the ICC Player of the Month award for December following his stellar performance in the Test series against New Zealand and South Africa.

Besides Agarwal, New Zealand spinner Ajaz Patel and Australian pacer Mitchell Starc were also short-listed for the award. 
With regular openers Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill and KL Rahul all missing games at some point last month, Agarwal grabbed the opportunity with both hands against New Zealand and South Africa.

In two matches, he scored 276 runs at an average of 69.00, which included two fifties and a century. Agarwal was the architect of the win in Mumbai against New Zealand with a Player of the Match-winning performance of 150 and 62 in the two innings. He also played a crucial role in India breaking the Centurion hoodoo for the very first time.

Batting first in overcast conditions, KL Rahul and Agarwal set the platform with a brilliant opening partnership of 117. During the stand, he was tested by the fiery Proteas pace attack but came out shining with a brilliant 60. India posted 327 in the first innings, which eventually proved to be the difference between the two sides.

Read More |&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/sports/rishabh-pant-should-be-given-a-break-former-india-all-rounder-on-keepers-poor-show-in-2nd-test-vs-sa-443204">'Rishabh Pant should be given a break': Former India all-rounder on keeper's poor show in 2nd Test vs SA</a>

India-born kiwi spinner Ajaz Patel's name was immortalised in cricketing history in December, when he picked up 10 wickets in an innings against India, becoming the third player in Tests to achieve the feat after Jim Laker and Anil Kumble. The left-arm spinner played just one Test in the month, where he picked up 14 wickets at an average of 16.07. He picked up all 10 wickets in the first innings but was disappointed by the Kiwi batters who were bundled out for 62.

In the second innings, he picked up four wickets, including that of Agarwal and Cheteshwar Pujara. He finished with figures of 14/225, the best bowling figures in a Test match in 2021. Starc also had standout performances both with the bat and ball in hand as Australia retained the Ashes with two games to spare. 
In three games last month, he picked up 14 wickets at an average of 19.64 and was more than handy with the bat, scoring 117 runs at an average of 58.50.

He set the tone for the whole series by dismissing Rory Burns with the first ball of the first Test. While batting, he kept Travis Head company with an innings of 35 and added 85 crucial runs for the eighth wicket. In the second Test in Adelaide, Starc snapped six wickets and scored 58. This included a brilliant four-wicket haul in the first innings that helped reduce England to 236, giving Australia a massive lead of 237 runs.

Read Also |&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/sports/not-ajinkya-rahane-sunil-gavaskar-names-player-virat-kohli-should-replace-in-3rd-test-vs-south-africa-443185">Not Ajinkya Rahane! Sunil Gavaskar names player Virat Kohli should replace in 3rd Test vs South Africa</a>

In the Boxing Day Test, Starc picked two crucial wickets in the first innings, including that of England's captain Joe Root. His innings of 24 not out helped Australia gain an 82-run lead, which proved to be enough as England were bundled out for 68. He picked up three wickets in the second innings as Australia won by an innings to retain the urn.

India opener Mayank Agarwal was on Saturday nominated for the ICC Player of the Month award for December following his stellar performance in the Test series against New Zealand and South Africa.

India opener Mayank Agarwal was on Saturday nominated for the ICC Player of the Month award for December following his stellar performance in the Test series against New Zealand and South Africa. Besides Agarwal, New Zealand spinner Ajaz Patel and Australian pacer Mitchell Starc were also short-listed for the award. With regular openers Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill and KL Rahul all missing games at some point last month, Agarwal grabbed the opportunity with both hands against New Zealand and South Africa. In two matches, he scored 276 runs at an average of 69.00, which included two fifties and a century. Agarwal was the architect of the win in Mumbai against New Zealand with a Player of the Match-winning performance of 150 and 62 in the two innings. He also played a crucial role in India breaking the Centurion hoodoo for the very first time. Batting first in overcast conditions, KL Rahul and Agarwal set the platform with a brilliant opening partnership of 117. During the stand, he was tested by the fiery Proteas pace attack but came out shining with a brilliant 60. India posted 327 in the first innings, which eventually proved to be the difference between the two sides. Read More | 'Rishabh Pant should be given a break': Former India all-rounder on keeper's poor show in 2nd Test vs SA India-born kiwi spinner Ajaz Patel's name was immortalised in cricketing history in December, when he picked up 10 wickets in an innings against India, becoming the third player in Tests to achieve the feat after Jim Laker and Anil Kumble. The left-arm spinner played just one Test in the month, where he picked up 14 wickets at an average of 16.07. He picked up all 10 wickets in the first innings but was disappointed by the Kiwi batters who were bundled out for 62. In the second innings, he picked up four wickets, including that of Agarwal and Cheteshwar Pujara. He finished with figures of 14/225, the best bowling figures in a Test match in 2021. Starc also had standout performances both with the bat and ball in hand as Australia retained the Ashes with two games to spare. In three games last month, he picked up 14 wickets at an average of 19.64 and was more than handy with the bat, scoring 117 runs at an average of 58.50. He set the tone for the whole series by dismissing Rory Burns with the first ball of the first Test. While batting, he kept Travis Head company with an innings of 35 and added 85 crucial runs for the eighth wicket. In the second Test in Adelaide, Starc snapped six wickets and scored 58. This included a brilliant four-wicket haul in the first innings that helped reduce England to 236, giving Australia a massive lead of 237 runs. Read Also | Not Ajinkya Rahane! Sunil Gavaskar names player Virat Kohli should replace in 3rd Test vs South Africa In the Boxing Day Test, Starc picked two crucial wickets in the first innings, including that of England's captain Joe Root. His innings of 24 not out helped Australia gain an 82-run lead, which proved to be enough as England were bundled out for 68. He picked up three wickets in the second innings as Australia won by an innings to retain the urn.

Indian Opener Mayank Agarwal among three nominated for ICC men's Player of the month award

Slow over-rates in T20 Internationals will invite stricter penalties now with the ICC on Friday announcing that teams which fail to keep up with the schedule will end up with one fielder less outside the 30-yard circle for the remainder of the innings, starting this month.

The governing body also introduced an optional drinks interval midway through the innings in bilateral T20 international cricket as part of its updated playing conditions.

The in-match penalties are in addition to the sanctions for slow over rate outlined in Article 2.22 of the ICC Code of Conduct for Players and Player Support Personnel. The existing sanctions include demerit points and financial penalties on teams and their captains.

Read Also |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/you-are-giving-me-a-heart-attack-umpire-erasmus-banter-with-indian-players-caught-on-stump-mic-watch-442901">'You are giving me a heart attack': Umpire Erasmus' banter with Indian players caught on stump mic - WATCH</a>

"The over rate regulations are captured in clause 13.8 of the playing conditions , which stipulate that a fielding side must be in position to bowl the first ball of the final over of the innings by the scheduled or rescheduled time for the end of the innings," the ICC stated.

"If they are not in such a position, one fewer fielder will be permitted outside of the 30-yard circle for the remaining overs of the innings."

Under normal regulations, five fielders are allowed outside the 30 yard circle after the first six overs. 
However, in case of the schedule not being kept up by the bowling side, "no more than four fielders shall be permitted outside the fielding restriction area..."

The bowler's end umpire will inform the captain of the fielding side, the batter and the other umpire of the "scheduled cessation time for the innings prior to the start of the innings, and of any rescheduled cessation time following any subsequent interruption to play."

Read Also |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/updated-icc-world-test-cship-points-table-after-dean-elgar-led-south-africa-beat-india-in-jburg-442895">Updated ICC World Test C'ship points table after Dean Elgar-led South Africa beat India in J'burg</a>

The change was recommended by the ICC Cricket Committee, which regularly discusses ways to improve the pace of play in all formats, after considering reports on the effectiveness of a similar regulation that was included in the playing conditions for the Hundred competition conducted by the ECB.

In another change, an optional drinks break of two minutes and thirty seconds may be taken at the mid-point of each innings subject to agreement between Members at the start of each series.

The first men's match to be played under the new playing conditions will be the one-off tie between the West Indies and Ireland at the Sabina Park in Jamaica on January 16.

The first T20I of the three-match series between South Africa and the West Indies in Centurion on January 18 will be the first women's match played under the new playing conditions.

Slow over-rates in T20 Internationals will invite stricter penalties now with the ICC on Friday announcing that teams which fail to keep up with the schedule will end up with one fielder less outside the 30-yard circle for the remainder of the innings, starting this month.

Slow over-rates in T20 Internationals will invite stricter penalties now with the ICC on Friday announcing that teams which fail to keep up with the schedule will end up with one fielder less outside the 30-yard circle for the remainder of the innings, starting this month. The governing body also introduced an optional drinks interval midway through the innings in bilateral T20 international cricket as part of its updated playing conditions. The in-match penalties are in addition to the sanctions for slow over rate outlined in Article 2.22 of the ICC Code of Conduct for Players and Player Support Personnel. The existing sanctions include demerit points and financial penalties on teams and their captains. Read Also | 'You are giving me a heart attack': Umpire Erasmus' banter with Indian players caught on stump mic - WATCH "The over rate regulations are captured in clause 13.8 of the playing conditions , which stipulate that a fielding side must be in position to bowl the first ball of the final over of the innings by the scheduled or rescheduled time for the end of the innings," the ICC stated. "If they are not in such a position, one fewer fielder will be permitted outside of the 30-yard circle for the remaining overs of the innings." Under normal regulations, five fielders are allowed outside the 30 yard circle after the first six overs. However, in case of the schedule not being kept up by the bowling side, "no more than four fielders shall be permitted outside the fielding restriction area..." The bowler's end umpire will inform the captain of the fielding side, the batter and the other umpire of the "scheduled cessation time for the innings prior to the start of the innings, and of any rescheduled cessation time following any subsequent interruption to play." Read Also | Updated ICC World Test C'ship points table after Dean Elgar-led South Africa beat India in J'burg The change was recommended by the ICC Cricket Committee, which regularly discusses ways to improve the pace of play in all formats, after considering reports on the effectiveness of a similar regulation that was included in the playing conditions for the Hundred competition conducted by the ECB. In another change, an optional drinks break of two minutes and thirty seconds may be taken at the mid-point of each innings subject to agreement between Members at the start of each series. The first men's match to be played under the new playing conditions will be the one-off tie between the West Indies and Ireland at the Sabina Park in Jamaica on January 16. The first T20I of the three-match series between South Africa and the West Indies in Centurion on January 18 will be the first women's match played under the new playing conditions.

Slow over-rate penalty, optional drinks interval: ICC changes T20I playing conditions

The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Tuesday (December 28) announced the nominees for the Test Player of the Year award 2021. Senior spinner R Ashwin is the only Indian to make the cut. He has been nominated for the award alongside England skipper Joe Root, New Zealand all-rounder Kyle Jamieson and Sri Lanka batter Dimuth Karunaratne.

Ashwin once again proved why he is one of the best spinners of the current generation with consistent performances throughout the year. The senior off-spinner finished as the highest wicket-taker in Tests in 2021with 52 wickets to his name in nine matches at an average of 16.94, including three five-wicket hauls.

Apart from his heroics with the ball, Ashwin also made some crucial contributions with the bat for India. He played an instrumental role in India's series win against England at home which helped them secure a spot in the World Test Championship (WTC) final against New Zealand.

England captain Root was one of the best batsmen in Test this year as he continued his purple patch in the whites. Root notched up an impressive 1708 runs in 15 matches with the help of six centuries for England and is one of the favourites for the Test Player of the Year award.

Root now has the record for most runs by an English batsman in a calendar year and is only the third batter overall to score over 1700 runs in a calendar year in Tests. However, the England skipper's year didn't end in an ideal way on the captaincy front with the visitors losing back-to-back three matches in the ongoing Ashes 2021-22 in Australia.

Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/finally-the-rock-has-come-back-virat-kohlis-comment-on-jasprit-bumrahs-return-leaves-fans-in-splits-440862">&nbsp;'Finally the Rock has come back': Virat Kohli's comment on Jasprit Bumrah's return leaves fans in splits</a>

New Zealand all-rounder Jamieson also had a fabulous year for his country in Tests and picked up 27 wickets in five matches to help the Kiwis reach the final of the World Test Championship. New Zealand lifted the title after beating India by 8 wickets in the final. Jamieson was awarded the Man of the Match in the final for his 7 wickets and 21 runs.

Sri Lanka's Karunaratne has also been nominated for the Test Player of the Year award after having a magnificent campaign with the bat. He amassed 902 runs in seven Tests this year at an average of over 69 with the help of four centuries. Karunaratne played some memorable knocks against the likes of Bangladesh and West Indies.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Tuesday (December 28) announced the nominees for the Test Player of the Year award 2021. Senior spinner R Ashwin is the only Indian to make the cut.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Tuesday (December 28) announced the nominees for the Test Player of the Year award 2021. Senior spinner R Ashwin is the only Indian to make the cut. He has been nominated for the award alongside England skipper Joe Root, New Zealand all-rounder Kyle Jamieson and Sri Lanka batter Dimuth Karunaratne. Ashwin once again proved why he is one of the best spinners of the current generation with consistent performances throughout the year. The senior off-spinner finished as the highest wicket-taker in Tests in 2021with 52 wickets to his name in nine matches at an average of 16.94, including three five-wicket hauls. Apart from his heroics with the ball, Ashwin also made some crucial contributions with the bat for India. He played an instrumental role in India's series win against England at home which helped them secure a spot in the World Test Championship (WTC) final against New Zealand. England captain Root was one of the best batsmen in Test this year as he continued his purple patch in the whites. Root notched up an impressive 1708 runs in 15 matches with the help of six centuries for England and is one of the favourites for the Test Player of the Year award. Root now has the record for most runs by an English batsman in a calendar year and is only the third batter overall to score over 1700 runs in a calendar year in Tests. However, the England skipper's year didn't end in an ideal way on the captaincy front with the visitors losing back-to-back three matches in the ongoing Ashes 2021-22 in Australia. Also Read: 'Finally the Rock has come back': Virat Kohli's comment on Jasprit Bumrah's return leaves fans in splits New Zealand all-rounder Jamieson also had a fabulous year for his country in Tests and picked up 27 wickets in five matches to help the Kiwis reach the final of the World Test Championship. New Zealand lifted the title after beating India by 8 wickets in the final. Jamieson was awarded the Man of the Match in the final for his 7 wickets and 21 runs. Sri Lanka's Karunaratne has also been nominated for the Test Player of the Year award after having a magnificent campaign with the bat. He amassed 902 runs in seven Tests this year at an average of over 69 with the help of four centuries. Karunaratne played some memorable knocks against the likes of Bangladesh and West Indies.

R Ashwin, Joe Root and two others nominated for ICC Test Player of the Year award

India will face Pakistan in their opening match of ICC Women's Cricket World Cup 2022 here in Tauranga on March 6, 2022.

The showpiece event will get underway on March 4, 2022, at the Bay Oval in Tauranga, with the hosts New Zealand taking on West Indies.

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The line up is complete! 
 
See the full <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CWC22?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CWC22</a> schedule, starting with <a href="https://twitter.com/WHITE_FERNS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@WHITE_FERNS</a> v <a href="https://twitter.com/windiescricket?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@windiescricket</a> in the opening match. 
 
Get your tickets now 👉 <a href="https://t.co/TSB12d7j9j">https://t.co/TSB12d7j9j</a> <a href="https://t.co/unGAoFmcUF">pic.twitter.com/unGAoFmcUF</a>
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England and Australia will then lock horns the following day at Seddon Park in Hamilton.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/smriti-mandhana-ideal-candidate-to-succeed-mithali-raj-after-her-retirement-says-former-indian-cricketer-435531">Smriti Mandhana ideal candidate to succeed Mithali Raj after her retirement, says former Indian cricketer</a>

A total of 31 matches will be staged across 31 days, with the eight teams clashing to clinch the World Cup title.

According to ICC, Australia, England, South Africa and India qualified for the event on the basis of their position in ICC Women`s Championship 2017-20 while New Zealand automatically qualified as they were hosts.

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New Zealand host the West Indies in the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CWC22?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CWC22</a> opener, and rivals face off in the first week of the tournament 👀 
 
Key dates for your cricket diary 👇<a href="https://t.co/1l53PeHbGO">https://t.co/1l53PeHbGO</a>
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The megaevent will be played in the league format, where all eight nations will face each other once, at the end of which the top four teams will qualify for the semi-finals.

The first semi-final of the World Cup will be played at The Basin Reserve in Wellington on March 30 while The Hagley Oval will staged the second semi-final on March 31.

IN PICS:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-neeraj-chopra-to-mithali-raj-list-of-athletes-who-won-major-dhyan-chand-khel-ratna-award-in-2021-429094#neeraj-chopra-429065">From Neeraj Chopra to Mithali Raj: List of athletes who won Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award in 2021</a>

The finals of the tournament will be played on April 3. Both the semi-finals and the finals will have a reserve day in place as per ICC.&nbsp;

India will face Pakistan in their opening match of ICC Women's Cricket World Cup 2022 here in Tauranga on March 6, 2022. The showpiece event will get underway on March 4, 2022, at the Bay Oval in Tauranga, with the hosts New Zealand taking on West Indies.

India will face Pakistan in their opening match of ICC Women's Cricket World Cup 2022 here in Tauranga on March 6, 2022. The showpiece event will get underway on March 4, 2022, at the Bay Oval in Tauranga, with the hosts New Zealand taking on West Indies. The line up is complete! See the full #CWC22 schedule, starting with @WHITE_FERNS v @windiescricket in the opening match. Get your tickets now 👉 https://t.co/TSB12d7j9j pic.twitter.com/unGAoFmcUF — Cricket World Cup (@cricketworldcup) December 14, 2021 × England and Australia will then lock horns the following day at Seddon Park in Hamilton. ALSO READ: Smriti Mandhana ideal candidate to succeed Mithali Raj after her retirement, says former Indian cricketer A total of 31 matches will be staged across 31 days, with the eight teams clashing to clinch the World Cup title. According to ICC, Australia, England, South Africa and India qualified for the event on the basis of their position in ICC Women`s Championship 2017-20 while New Zealand automatically qualified as they were hosts. New Zealand host the West Indies in the #CWC22 opener, and rivals face off in the first week of the tournament 👀 Key dates for your cricket diary 👇https://t.co/1l53PeHbGO — ICC (@ICC) December 15, 2021 × The megaevent will be played in the league format, where all eight nations will face each other once, at the end of which the top four teams will qualify for the semi-finals. The first semi-final of the World Cup will be played at The Basin Reserve in Wellington on March 30 while The Hagley Oval will staged the second semi-final on March 31. IN PICS: From Neeraj Chopra to Mithali Raj: List of athletes who won Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award in 2021 The finals of the tournament will be played on April 3. Both the semi-finals and the finals will have a reserve day in place as per ICC.

ICC announces schedule for 2022 Women's ODI World Cup, India to open campaign vs Pakistan

Explosive Australia opener David Warner and West Indies all-rounder Hayley Matthews were on Monday adjudged the men's and women's ICC Players of the Month of November after their superlative performances.

Warner's crucial efforts in the ICC Men's T20 World Cup which Australia won for the first time helped him pip Pakistan opener Abid Ali and New Zealand seam bowler Tim Southee to grab the men's award.

Matthews' all-round show in the ODIs won her the women's award ahead of left-arm spinners Anam Amin of Pakistan and Nahida Akter of Bangladesh.

Warner won the award on his maiden nomination following his Player of the Tournament show at the recent T20 World Cup, in which he smashed 53 in the final against New Zealand after 49 in the semifinal against Pakistan.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/david-warner-tim-southee-and-abid-ali-nominated-for-icc-player-of-the-month-award-for-november-435178">David Warner, Tim Southee, and Abid Ali nominated for ICC Player of the Month award for November</a>

He was also named Player of the Match in an earlier Super 12 match against the West Indies for a blistering 89 not out off 56 balls. Warner aggregated 209 runs at an average of 69.66 and a strike rate of 151.44 in four T20Is during the period.

David was back to his scintillating best during the T20 World Cup and his aggression at the top of the order was outstanding. His 209 runs at a strike rate of 151 in four innings simply tells the story," Jury member Russel Arnold said about Warner.

"There was no recovering from the early onslaught by Warner and his stroke play was pleasing to the eye."

Matthews won the award on her second nomination. She was earlier nominated in July along with her captain Stafanie Taylor, who was the winner then.

Matthews scored 141 runs and grabbed nine wickets at an average of 13.11 during the period. She starred in a series win over Pakistan, scoring 57 runs and taking three for 31 in the first match before a four for 26 runs in the second.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashes-2021-james-anderson-stuart-broad-available-for-selection-for-second-test-436498">Ashes 2021: James Anderson, Stuart Broad available for selection for second Test</a>

"Hayley was the star, performing with both bat and ball. Her all-round performance was one of the reasons the West Indies won against Pakistan, and she deserves to be the women's Player of the Month," jury member Irfan Pathan said about Matthews.

The selection process for the monthly awards, which were instituted in January, combines votes cast by former players, prominent journalists and global cricket fans.&nbsp;

Explosive Australia opener David Warner and West Indies all-rounder Hayley Matthews were on Monday adjudged the men's and women's ICC Players of the Month of November after their superlative performances.

Explosive Australia opener David Warner and West Indies all-rounder Hayley Matthews were on Monday adjudged the men's and women's ICC Players of the Month of November after their superlative performances. Warner's crucial efforts in the ICC Men's T20 World Cup which Australia won for the first time helped him pip Pakistan opener Abid Ali and New Zealand seam bowler Tim Southee to grab the men's award. Matthews' all-round show in the ODIs won her the women's award ahead of left-arm spinners Anam Amin of Pakistan and Nahida Akter of Bangladesh. Warner won the award on his maiden nomination following his Player of the Tournament show at the recent T20 World Cup, in which he smashed 53 in the final against New Zealand after 49 in the semifinal against Pakistan. ALSO READ: David Warner, Tim Southee, and Abid Ali nominated for ICC Player of the Month award for November He was also named Player of the Match in an earlier Super 12 match against the West Indies for a blistering 89 not out off 56 balls. Warner aggregated 209 runs at an average of 69.66 and a strike rate of 151.44 in four T20Is during the period. David was back to his scintillating best during the T20 World Cup and his aggression at the top of the order was outstanding. His 209 runs at a strike rate of 151 in four innings simply tells the story," Jury member Russel Arnold said about Warner. "There was no recovering from the early onslaught by Warner and his stroke play was pleasing to the eye." Matthews won the award on her second nomination. She was earlier nominated in July along with her captain Stafanie Taylor, who was the winner then. Matthews scored 141 runs and grabbed nine wickets at an average of 13.11 during the period. She starred in a series win over Pakistan, scoring 57 runs and taking three for 31 in the first match before a four for 26 runs in the second. ALSO READ: Ashes 2021: James Anderson, Stuart Broad available for selection for second Test "Hayley was the star, performing with both bat and ball. Her all-round performance was one of the reasons the West Indies won against Pakistan, and she deserves to be the women's Player of the Month," jury member Irfan Pathan said about Matthews. The selection process for the monthly awards, which were instituted in January, combines votes cast by former players, prominent journalists and global cricket fans.

David Warner and Hayley Matthews win ICC player of month award for November

The ICC is not losing hope of cricket being among "additional sports" to be played at the 2028 Los Angeles Games after the International Olympic Committee (IOC) started the process of identifying the core sports for the grand sporting spectacle.

The IOC on Thursday named 28 sports in the "initial programme" for the 2028 Olympics with skateboarding, surfing and sport climbing finding places in them. Boxing, weightlifting and modern pentathlon were excluded and the respective international federations have been given time until 2023 to meet certain criteria to secure their spot at the 2028 Games.

The list would be put to vote in the IOC Session in Beijing in February next year for approval, which is likely to be a formality. 
Host City Los Angeles can also propose additional sports in 2023 to be included in the 2028 Games and the ICC is hoping that cricket is among sports to get the nod of the IOC.

Baseball, softball and a version of American football could be in the running to bid for additional sports in 2028 Olympics.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/senior-japanese-officials-to-skip-beijing-winter-olympics-in-a-diplomatic-boycott-report-436038">Senior Japanese officials to skip Beijing Winter Olympics in a diplomatic boycott - Report</a>

"The process to pick additional sports by the host city starts next year (2023) and we are hoping cricket to be a part of that," an ICC Board member, who is privy to the process, told PTI on conditions of anonymity.

"We know it will be tough (for cricket to be included as an additional sport). There are no guarantees and we are up against some other great sports to try and get a spot in the 2028 LA Games."

In August, the ICC had expressed its intention to bid for cricket's inclusion in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, which also had the backing from the world's richest board BCCI.

The ICC has also formed an Olympic Working Group which will work on making the game part of the Olympics starting from 2028.

Our sport is united behind this bid, and we see the Olympics as a part of cricket's long-term future. We have more than a billion fans globally and almost 90 percent of them want to see cricket at the Olympics," ICC chairman Greg Barclay had said then.

In 2024, the IOC will decide on the additional sports proposed by the LA Games organisers. Following Tokyo and Paris (2024), Los Angeles Olympics will be third host which will propose additional sports in its programme.

Six new sports -- baseball, softball, karate, skateboarding, sport climbing, and surfing -- featured at the Tokyo Olympics as additional sports. Surfing and break-dancing will be among additional sports in the 2024 Paris Games.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/winter-olympics-china-warns-australia-uk-us-for-diplomatic-boycott-says-will-pay-price-for-wrong-acts-435445">Winter Olympics: China warns Australia, UK, US for diplomatic boycott, says 'will pay price for wrong acts'</a>

Host cities were allowed to proposed additional sports as part of he IOC's Agenda 2020? reforms with an aim to help host countries' most played sports gain exposure via the Olympics.

Till 2016, there was a cap of 28 sports in Olympic programme but it was dropped by the IOC in a 2014 decision. Now, each summer Olympics will be restricted to 10,500 athletes and 310 events.

The IOC has a list of main sports which were almost always present at the Olympics.&nbsp;

The ICC is not losing hope of cricket being among "additional sports" to be played at the 2028 Los Angeles Games after the International Olympic Committee (IOC) started the process of identifying the core sports for the grand sporting spectacle.

The ICC is not losing hope of cricket being among "additional sports" to be played at the 2028 Los Angeles Games after the International Olympic Committee (IOC) started the process of identifying the core sports for the grand sporting spectacle. The IOC on Thursday named 28 sports in the "initial programme" for the 2028 Olympics with skateboarding, surfing and sport climbing finding places in them. Boxing, weightlifting and modern pentathlon were excluded and the respective international federations have been given time until 2023 to meet certain criteria to secure their spot at the 2028 Games. The list would be put to vote in the IOC Session in Beijing in February next year for approval, which is likely to be a formality. Host City Los Angeles can also propose additional sports in 2023 to be included in the 2028 Games and the ICC is hoping that cricket is among sports to get the nod of the IOC. Baseball, softball and a version of American football could be in the running to bid for additional sports in 2028 Olympics. ALSO READ: Senior Japanese officials to skip Beijing Winter Olympics in a diplomatic boycott - Report "The process to pick additional sports by the host city starts next year (2023) and we are hoping cricket to be a part of that," an ICC Board member, who is privy to the process, told PTI on conditions of anonymity. "We know it will be tough (for cricket to be included as an additional sport). There are no guarantees and we are up against some other great sports to try and get a spot in the 2028 LA Games." In August, the ICC had expressed its intention to bid for cricket's inclusion in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, which also had the backing from the world's richest board BCCI. The ICC has also formed an Olympic Working Group which will work on making the game part of the Olympics starting from 2028. Our sport is united behind this bid, and we see the Olympics as a part of cricket's long-term future. We have more than a billion fans globally and almost 90 percent of them want to see cricket at the Olympics," ICC chairman Greg Barclay had said then. In 2024, the IOC will decide on the additional sports proposed by the LA Games organisers. Following Tokyo and Paris (2024), Los Angeles Olympics will be third host which will propose additional sports in its programme. Six new sports -- baseball, softball, karate, skateboarding, sport climbing, and surfing -- featured at the Tokyo Olympics as additional sports. Surfing and break-dancing will be among additional sports in the 2024 Paris Games. ALSO READ: Winter Olympics: China warns Australia, UK, US for diplomatic boycott, says 'will pay price for wrong acts' Host cities were allowed to proposed additional sports as part of he IOC's Agenda 2020? reforms with an aim to help host countries' most played sports gain exposure via the Olympics. Till 2016, there was a cap of 28 sports in Olympic programme but it was dropped by the IOC in a 2014 decision. Now, each summer Olympics will be restricted to 10,500 athletes and 310 events. The IOC has a list of main sports which were almost always present at the Olympics.

ICC hopeful of cricket featuring in 2028 Olympics as 'additional sport' after IOC starts identifying process

Australia's David Warner and Pakistan's Abid Ali have been nominated for the ICC Player of the Month honours in the men's category, along with New Zealand fast bowler Tim Southee. Anam Amin of Pakistan and Nahida Akter of Bangladesh are up for the women's award, as is West Indies all-rounder Haley Matthews, who is nominated for the second time.

On Tuesday, the nominees for the month of November were released, based on performances across formats and included matches from the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2021, which was hosted in the United Arab Emirates and Oman.

Fans who have registered at icc-cricket.com/awards can vote till Sunday (December 12).

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ICYMI: Nominees for the ICC <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/POTM?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#POTM</a> for November 2021 have been announced 📢 
 
Take a look and VOTE NOW 🗳️ <a href="https://t.co/M4fR9WmEiT">https://t.co/M4fR9WmEiT</a> <a href="https://t.co/trblnmDTmy">pic.twitter.com/trblnmDTmy</a>
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ICC Men's Player of the Month Nominees for November:

Abid Ali (Pakistan)

Pakistan opener Abid Ali was named Player of the Match in the opening match of their ICC World Test Championship (WTC) series against Bangladesh in Chittagong, with runs of 133 and 91. He was instrumental in establishing the groundwork for an eight-wicket victory, courtesy successive-century opening partnerships with partner Abdullah Shafique.

Tim Southee (New Zealand)

Tim Southee got eight wickets in the first Test against India in Kanpur, shortly after succeeding in the shortest&nbsp;format. In November, he took seven wickets in the ICC Men's T20 World Cup and assisted&nbsp;his team to the final&nbsp;in Dubai. He grabbed three additional T20I wickets against India at Ranchi between these two landmarks.

David Warner (Australia)

Warner, the T20 World Cup's Player of the Tournament, also made heads turn with notable performances of 49 in the semifinal against Pakistan and 53 in the final against New Zealand. He scored 209 runs at an average of 69.66 and a strike rate of 151.44, helping his country win their first ICC Men's T20 World Cup trophy.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/david-warners-redemption-tale-is-one-for-the-ages-430718">David Warner's redemption tale is one for the ages</a>

ICC Women's Player of the Month Nominees for November:

Nahida Akter (Bangladesh)

Nahida took 13 wickets at an economy rate of 2.22 in four ODIs. 11 of those wickets came when Bangladesh won the series 3-0 in Zimbabwe, with figures of 5 for 21 in the third match at Bulawayo. The last two wickets were taken by the spinner in a thrilling victory over Pakistan in the ICC Women's Cricket World Cup Qualifier 2021 in Harare.

Anam Amin (Pakistan)

Anam took 13 ODI wickets in November at a 3.00 economy rate. She took nine wickets in the ODI series against the West Indies and followed it up with four wickets in two matches during the ICC Women's Cricket World Cup Qualifier 2021, including 3 for 9 against Zimbabwe.

Hayley Matthews (West Indies)

Hayley Matthews, who was nominated with her skipper Stafanie Taylor in July, receives her second nomination following a string of steady performances in four One-Day Internationals in which she scored 141 runs and took nine wickets at an average of 13.11. She was a standout in the series victory against Pakistan, batting 57 and capturing three wickets for 31 runs in the first game before grabbing four wickets for 26 runs in the second.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/2nd-test-dhaka-pakistan-sweep-series-vs-bangladesh-with-an-innings-and-8-run-win-on-final-day-435167">2nd Test, Dhaka: Pakistan sweep series vs Bangladesh with an innings and 8 run-win on final day</a>

Process of voting for the Player of the month:

The three candidates for each category are chosen based on their performances from the first to the last day of each calendar month. The impartial ICC Voting Academy* and fans from across the world then vote on the shortlist. The ICC Voting Academy is made up of famous cricketers, including well-known journalists, past players, broadcasters, and members of the ICC Hall of Fame. The Voting Academy submits their ballots by email and has a 90% vote share. Fans who registered with the ICC to vote on the ICC website accounted for the remaining 10%. Every second Monday of the month, winners are announced on ICC's digital platforms.

Australia's David Warner and Pakistan's Abid Ali have been nominated for the ICC Player of the Month honours in the men's category, along with New Zealand fast bowler Tim Southee.

Australia's David Warner and Pakistan's Abid Ali have been nominated for the ICC Player of the Month honours in the men's category, along with New Zealand fast bowler Tim Southee. Anam Amin of Pakistan and Nahida Akter of Bangladesh are up for the women's award, as is West Indies all-rounder Haley Matthews, who is nominated for the second time. On Tuesday, the nominees for the month of November were released, based on performances across formats and included matches from the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2021, which was hosted in the United Arab Emirates and Oman. Fans who have registered at icc-cricket.com/awards can vote till Sunday (December 12). ICYMI: Nominees for the ICC #POTM for November 2021 have been announced 📢 Take a look and VOTE NOW 🗳️ https://t.co/M4fR9WmEiT pic.twitter.com/trblnmDTmy — ICC (@ICC) December 7, 2021 × ICC Men's Player of the Month Nominees for November: Abid Ali (Pakistan) Pakistan opener Abid Ali was named Player of the Match in the opening match of their ICC World Test Championship (WTC) series against Bangladesh in Chittagong, with runs of 133 and 91. He was instrumental in establishing the groundwork for an eight-wicket victory, courtesy successive-century opening partnerships with partner Abdullah Shafique. Tim Southee (New Zealand) Tim Southee got eight wickets in the first Test against India in Kanpur, shortly after succeeding in the shortest format. In November, he took seven wickets in the ICC Men's T20 World Cup and assisted his team to the final in Dubai. He grabbed three additional T20I wickets against India at Ranchi between these two landmarks. David Warner (Australia) Warner, the T20 World Cup's Player of the Tournament, also made heads turn with notable performances of 49 in the semifinal against Pakistan and 53 in the final against New Zealand. He scored 209 runs at an average of 69.66 and a strike rate of 151.44, helping his country win their first ICC Men's T20 World Cup trophy. ALSO READ: David Warner's redemption tale is one for the ages ICC Women's Player of the Month Nominees for November: Nahida Akter (Bangladesh) Nahida took 13 wickets at an economy rate of 2.22 in four ODIs. 11 of those wickets came when Bangladesh won the series 3-0 in Zimbabwe, with figures of 5 for 21 in the third match at Bulawayo. The last two wickets were taken by the spinner in a thrilling victory over Pakistan in the ICC Women's Cricket World Cup Qualifier 2021 in Harare. Anam Amin (Pakistan) Anam took 13 ODI wickets in November at a 3.00 economy rate. She took nine wickets in the ODI series against the West Indies and followed it up with four wickets in two matches during the ICC Women's Cricket World Cup Qualifier 2021, including 3 for 9 against Zimbabwe. Hayley Matthews (West Indies) Hayley Matthews, who was nominated with her skipper Stafanie Taylor in July, receives her second nomination following a string of steady performances in four One-Day Internationals in which she scored 141 runs and took nine wickets at an average of 13.11. She was a standout in the series victory against Pakistan, batting 57 and capturing three wickets for 31 runs in the first game before grabbing four wickets for 26 runs in the second. ALSO READ: 2nd Test, Dhaka: Pakistan sweep series vs Bangladesh with an innings and 8 run-win on final day Process of voting for the Player of the month: The three candidates for each category are chosen based on their performances from the first to the last day of each calendar month. The impartial ICC Voting Academy* and fans from across the world then vote on the shortlist. The ICC Voting Academy is made up of famous cricketers, including well-known journalists, past players, broadcasters, and members of the ICC Hall of Fame. The Voting Academy submits their ballots by email and has a 90% vote share. Fans who registered with the ICC to vote on the ICC website accounted for the remaining 10%. Every second Monday of the month, winners are announced on ICC's digital platforms.

David Warner, Tim Southee, and Abid Ali nominated for ICC Player of the Month award for November

The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Monday said that the full fixture set for the ICC T20 World Cup in Australia next year will be announced on January 21, 2022. 
 
In all, a total of 45 matches will be played across seven venues in Australia -&nbsp;Adelaide, Brisbane, Geelong, Hobart, Melbourne, Perth and Sydney&nbsp;between October 16 and November 13 next year, and the tournament will be held exactly one year after the Aaron Finch-led Australian side won its maiden ICC T20 World Cup, in the UAE recently defeating New Zealand.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-led-india-regain-no-1-spot-in-icc-test-rankings-after-series-win-vs-new-zealand-434531">Virat Kohli-led India regain No. 1 spot in ICC Test rankings after series win vs New Zealand</a> 
 
The ICC issued a statement on Monday saying, "The Men's T20 World Cup 2022 is less than 11 months away and fans can soon start preparing their World Cup experience with the full fixture set to be announced on January 21, 2022. With the announcement of the fixture, fans will be able to plan which matches they want to attend and where, before tickets go on sale to the public on February 7, 2022." 
 
The final of the T20 World Cup will be played under lights at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) on November 13, 2022, while the semifinals will be hosted at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) and Adelaide Oval on November 9 and 10, respectively. 
 
The ICC had announced in November this year that the Men's T20 World Cup 2021 champions Australia and runners-up New Zealand, besides Afghanistan, Bangladesh, England, India, Pakistan and South Africa (as the next highest ranked teams) will gain direct entry into the Super 12 stage of the next edition of the tournament.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/updated-world-test-championship-points-table-after-india-win-series-vs-new-zealand-at-home-434499">Updated World Test Championship points table after India win series vs New Zealand at home</a> 
 
Namibia, Scotland, Sri Lanka and the West Indies will play in Round 1. The four remaining spots at Australia 2022 will be filled via the ongoing qualification pathway, culminating in two global qualifying tournaments one to take place in Oman in February and the other in Zimbabwe in July.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Monday said that the full fixture set for the ICC T20 World Cup in Australia next year will be announced on January 21, 2022.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Monday said that the full fixture set for the ICC T20 World Cup in Australia next year will be announced on January 21, 2022. In all, a total of 45 matches will be played across seven venues in Australia - Adelaide, Brisbane, Geelong, Hobart, Melbourne, Perth and Sydney between October 16 and November 13 next year, and the tournament will be held exactly one year after the Aaron Finch-led Australian side won its maiden ICC T20 World Cup, in the UAE recently defeating New Zealand. ALSO READ: Virat Kohli-led India regain No. 1 spot in ICC Test rankings after series win vs New Zealand The ICC issued a statement on Monday saying, "The Men's T20 World Cup 2022 is less than 11 months away and fans can soon start preparing their World Cup experience with the full fixture set to be announced on January 21, 2022. With the announcement of the fixture, fans will be able to plan which matches they want to attend and where, before tickets go on sale to the public on February 7, 2022." The final of the T20 World Cup will be played under lights at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) on November 13, 2022, while the semifinals will be hosted at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) and Adelaide Oval on November 9 and 10, respectively. The ICC had announced in November this year that the Men's T20 World Cup 2021 champions Australia and runners-up New Zealand, besides Afghanistan, Bangladesh, England, India, Pakistan and South Africa (as the next highest ranked teams) will gain direct entry into the Super 12 stage of the next edition of the tournament. ALSO READ | Updated World Test Championship points table after India win series vs New Zealand at home Namibia, Scotland, Sri Lanka and the West Indies will play in Round 1. The four remaining spots at Australia 2022 will be filled via the ongoing qualification pathway, culminating in two global qualifying tournaments one to take place in Oman in February and the other in Zimbabwe in July.

ICC to announce T20 World Cup Australia full schedule on January 21

Cricket and sports fans across the world enjoyed unparalleled coverage of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2021 when the tournament returned after five years. The pinnacle of the shortest format of the sport offered explosive cricket and entertainment for everyone and featured cricket's biggest names and best teams.

The event, the biggest ever cricket tournament to be staged in the UAE and Oman, broke viewership records in several regions, including garnering a record reach of television reach of 167 million and record consumption of 15.9 billion minutes in India on the Star India Network, for the highly-anticipated India-Pakistan clash.

The encounter is now the most viewed T20I match in history, exceeding the previous high of the India-West Indies semi-final match from the 2016 edition of the ICC event held in India.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/md-amir-hits-back-at-trolls-for-hasan-alis-dropped-catch-in-t20-wc-semis-reflects-on-paks-campaign-431894">Md Amir hits back at trolls for Hasan Ali's dropped catch in T20 WC semis, reflects on Pak's campaign</a>

The overall TV consumption for the full tournament in India was recorded at 112 billion minutes, despite India's early exit from the tournament. Viewership share amidst younger audiences in India (children below the age of 15) was at a healthy 18.5 percent at the back of a highly successful marketing campaign "Live the Game" targeting a younger demographic.

Digital consumption for the tournament saw explosive growth on Disney+ Hotstar in India, adding significantly to the overall television viewership in the market.

In the UK, viewership for the India v Pakistan match grew by 60 percent on Sky UK whereas the overall viewership for the market went up by 7 percent.

ICC's partnership with Facebook was a driver for the significant increase in video views, with a total of 4.3 billion views across all channels for the tournament, compared to 3.6 billion views which were garnered for the 2019 edition of the ICC Men`s Cricket World Cup.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/gill-iyer-or-siraj-irfan-pathan-names-vital-cog-for-team-india-while-playing-overseas-tests-431884">Gill, Iyer or Siraj? Irfan Pathan names 'vital' cog for Team India while playing overseas Tests</a>

The consumption across ICC's digital assets also grew, recording a total of 2.55 billion minutes. ICC's social media channels also saw significant growth in the engagement at 618 million across those platforms, which is a 28 percent jump since the 2019 edition of the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup.

ICC CEO Geoff Allardice said: "We are pleased with these outstanding global viewership numbers, that demonstrate the power of T20I cricket to attract a huge audience across the globe on linear and digital platforms. It reinforces our belief that there is a significant opportunity and appetite to grow the game in our strategic growth markets including the USA, so more fans can enjoy it, more kids are inspired by it and sponsors and broadcasters want to be a part of it."&nbsp;

Cricket and sports fans across the world enjoyed unparalleled coverage of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2021 when the tournament returned after five years. The pinnacle of the shortest format of the sport offered explosive cricket and entertainment for everyone and featured cricket's biggest names and best teams.

Cricket and sports fans across the world enjoyed unparalleled coverage of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2021 when the tournament returned after five years. The pinnacle of the shortest format of the sport offered explosive cricket and entertainment for everyone and featured cricket's biggest names and best teams. The event, the biggest ever cricket tournament to be staged in the UAE and Oman, broke viewership records in several regions, including garnering a record reach of television reach of 167 million and record consumption of 15.9 billion minutes in India on the Star India Network, for the highly-anticipated India-Pakistan clash. The encounter is now the most viewed T20I match in history, exceeding the previous high of the India-West Indies semi-final match from the 2016 edition of the ICC event held in India. ALSO READ: Md Amir hits back at trolls for Hasan Ali's dropped catch in T20 WC semis, reflects on Pak's campaign The overall TV consumption for the full tournament in India was recorded at 112 billion minutes, despite India's early exit from the tournament. Viewership share amidst younger audiences in India (children below the age of 15) was at a healthy 18.5 percent at the back of a highly successful marketing campaign "Live the Game" targeting a younger demographic. Digital consumption for the tournament saw explosive growth on Disney+ Hotstar in India, adding significantly to the overall television viewership in the market. In the UK, viewership for the India v Pakistan match grew by 60 percent on Sky UK whereas the overall viewership for the market went up by 7 percent. ICC's partnership with Facebook was a driver for the significant increase in video views, with a total of 4.3 billion views across all channels for the tournament, compared to 3.6 billion views which were garnered for the 2019 edition of the ICC Men`s Cricket World Cup. ALSO READ: Gill, Iyer or Siraj? Irfan Pathan names 'vital' cog for Team India while playing overseas Tests The consumption across ICC's digital assets also grew, recording a total of 2.55 billion minutes. ICC's social media channels also saw significant growth in the engagement at 618 million across those platforms, which is a 28 percent jump since the 2019 edition of the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup. ICC CEO Geoff Allardice said: "We are pleased with these outstanding global viewership numbers, that demonstrate the power of T20I cricket to attract a huge audience across the globe on linear and digital platforms. It reinforces our belief that there is a significant opportunity and appetite to grow the game in our strategic growth markets including the USA, so more fans can enjoy it, more kids are inspired by it and sponsors and broadcasters want to be a part of it."

India-Pakistan 2021 World Cup clash becomes most viewed T20I match: ICC

The International Cricket Council (ICC) is aware that it will be a major challenge for the governing body to convince Team India to travel to Pakistan for the Champions Trophy in 2025. ICC recently announced the host countries of the major tournaments for the 2024-2031 cycle with Pakistan being awarded the hosting rights for the 2025 Champions Trophy.

India and Pakistan have not engaged in bilateral cricket since 2013 due to the political tensions between the two nations. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) had expressed concerns over travelling to Pakistan for the Asia Cup last year before the tournament was eventually suspended due to COVID-19.

ICC chairman Greg Barclay is aware that it will be a difficult task for the ICC to convince the BCCI to travel to Pakistan for Champions Trophy 2025. However, he hopes cricket can be a force to help improve relationships between the two countries as sports bring people together.

“Yeah, we know it’s a particularly challenging issue to work through, but from my point of view, I cannot control geopolitical forces. I just hope cricket can be a force to help improve relationships between countries. That is the one great thing sport can do is help people and nations come together. If it can help in contributing to that, then it is fantastic,” Barclay told reporters on Monday.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pakistan-to-host-champions-trophy-2025-india-to-stage-three-icc-tournaments-till-2031-429791">Pakistan to host Champions Trophy 2025, India to stage three ICC tournaments till 2031</a>

While they have not engaged in any bilateral series for eight years now, India and Pakistan have met each other in major ICC events. The arch-rivals last locked horns in the recently-concluded T20 World Cup 2021 where the Babar Azam-led side defeated Virat Kohli &amp; Co. by ten wickets.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ms-dhoni-watches-on-as-finisher-shahrukh-khans-last-ball-six-powers-tamil-nadu-to-smat-2021-title-431232">MS Dhoni watches on as 'finisher' Shahrukh Khan's last-ball six powers Tamil Nadu to SMAT 2021 title</a>

With the comprehensive win, Pakistan also brought an end to their losing streak against Team India in World Cup matches. Pakistan had never won against India in the history of ODI and T20 World Cups but buried the losing streak with their memorable triumph in Dubai this year.

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The International Cricket Council (ICC) is aware that it will be a major challenge for the governing body to convince Team India to travel to Pakistan for the Champions Trophy in 2025.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) is aware that it will be a major challenge for the governing body to convince Team India to travel to Pakistan for the Champions Trophy in 2025. ICC recently announced the host countries of the major tournaments for the 2024-2031 cycle with Pakistan being awarded the hosting rights for the 2025 Champions Trophy. India and Pakistan have not engaged in bilateral cricket since 2013 due to the political tensions between the two nations. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) had expressed concerns over travelling to Pakistan for the Asia Cup last year before the tournament was eventually suspended due to COVID-19. ICC chairman Greg Barclay is aware that it will be a difficult task for the ICC to convince the BCCI to travel to Pakistan for Champions Trophy 2025. However, he hopes cricket can be a force to help improve relationships between the two countries as sports bring people together. “Yeah, we know it’s a particularly challenging issue to work through, but from my point of view, I cannot control geopolitical forces. I just hope cricket can be a force to help improve relationships between countries. That is the one great thing sport can do is help people and nations come together. If it can help in contributing to that, then it is fantastic,” Barclay told reporters on Monday. Also Read: Pakistan to host Champions Trophy 2025, India to stage three ICC tournaments till 2031 While they have not engaged in any bilateral series for eight years now, India and Pakistan have met each other in major ICC events. The arch-rivals last locked horns in the recently-concluded T20 World Cup 2021 where the Babar Azam-led side defeated Virat Kohli & Co. by ten wickets. Also Read: MS Dhoni watches on as 'finisher' Shahrukh Khan's last-ball six powers Tamil Nadu to SMAT 2021 title With the comprehensive win, Pakistan also brought an end to their losing streak against Team India in World Cup matches. Pakistan had never won against India in the history of ODI and T20 World Cups but buried the losing streak with their memorable triumph in Dubai this year.

Will be a challenging issue: ICC chairman on India travelling to Pakistan for Champions Trophy in 2025

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