The Indian women's team will play as many as 65 international games in the inaugural Future Tours &amp; Programmes (FTP) set by the ICC during the three-year cycle between May, 2022 to April, 2025.

The ICC on Tuesday announced the the structured calender that includes a total of 301 matches (seven Tests, 135 ODIs and 159 T20Is) over a period of three years.

India's share of matches will be two Tests against England and Australia along with 27 ODIs and 36 T20 Internationals during the said duration. Since the FTP has started from May, 2022, India have already played 3 WODIs and 3 WT20Is against Sri Lanka.

As per the list, India hosts New Zealand, South Africa, West Indies and Ireland at home, the away series are against Australia, England, Sri Lanka (already played) and Bangladesh. One of the marquee events in this phase will be India's five-match T20I series against the 'Southern Stars' later this year.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sourav-ganguly-opines-on-team-indias-multiple-captaincy-changes-in-2022-explains-how-it-has-been-beneficial-507450">Ganguly opines on Team India's multiple captaincy changes in 2022, explains how it has been beneficial</a>

While the Australians will be visiting India once again during the summer of 2023-24 for a multi-format series (one Test, three ODIs, and three T20Is), the Indians will return the favour when they tour Down Under in the winter of 2025-26 (one Test, three ODIs, and three T20Is).

Of the seven Tests inked during the phase, England will play the most Tests - five, followed by Australia (four), South Africa (three) and India (two).

"This is a huge moment for the women's game," ICC general manager of cricket, Wasim Khan, said in a statement. 
"This FTP not only lends certainty to future cricket tours but also sets the base for a structure that is sure to grow in the coming years," Khan added.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/team-india-wasnt-aggressive-under-kohli-but-players-attack-under-rohits-captaincy-feels-aakash-chopra-507368">Team India wasn't aggressive under Kohli, but players attack under Rohit's captaincy, feels Aakash Chopra</a>

According to ICC, the 2022-25 Women's Championship, teams will generally play three-match bilateral ODI series before the 2025 World Cup.

Many of these series will also be accompanied by T20 international matches, with some teams also giving its consent for five-match WT20I series.

"All bilateral T20I matches count towards respective team rankings, which in turn serves as a primary mechanism for determining the teams that qualify for ICC global events," ICC said in its statement.

The Indian women's team will play as many as 65 international games in the inaugural Future Tours & Programmes (FTP) set by the ICC during the three-year cycle between May, 2022 to April, 2025.

The Indian women's team will play as many as 65 international games in the inaugural Future Tours & Programmes (FTP) set by the ICC during the three-year cycle between May, 2022 to April, 2025. The ICC on Tuesday announced the the structured calender that includes a total of 301 matches (seven Tests, 135 ODIs and 159 T20Is) over a period of three years. India's share of matches will be two Tests against England and Australia along with 27 ODIs and 36 T20 Internationals during the said duration. Since the FTP has started from May, 2022, India have already played 3 WODIs and 3 WT20Is against Sri Lanka. As per the list, India hosts New Zealand, South Africa, West Indies and Ireland at home, the away series are against Australia, England, Sri Lanka (already played) and Bangladesh. One of the marquee events in this phase will be India's five-match T20I series against the 'Southern Stars' later this year. Also Read: Ganguly opines on Team India's multiple captaincy changes in 2022, explains how it has been beneficial While the Australians will be visiting India once again during the summer of 2023-24 for a multi-format series (one Test, three ODIs, and three T20Is), the Indians will return the favour when they tour Down Under in the winter of 2025-26 (one Test, three ODIs, and three T20Is). Of the seven Tests inked during the phase, England will play the most Tests - five, followed by Australia (four), South Africa (three) and India (two). "This is a huge moment for the women's game," ICC general manager of cricket, Wasim Khan, said in a statement. "This FTP not only lends certainty to future cricket tours but also sets the base for a structure that is sure to grow in the coming years," Khan added. Also Read: Team India wasn't aggressive under Kohli, but players attack under Rohit's captaincy, feels Aakash Chopra According to ICC, the 2022-25 Women's Championship, teams will generally play three-match bilateral ODI series before the 2025 World Cup. Many of these series will also be accompanied by T20 international matches, with some teams also giving its consent for five-match WT20I series. "All bilateral T20I matches count towards respective team rankings, which in turn serves as a primary mechanism for determining the teams that qualify for ICC global events," ICC said in its statement.

Indian women's team to play 2 Tests, 27 ODIs and 36 T20Is in three-year cycle as ICC releases FTP

Former International umpire Rudi Koertzen has died at the age of 73 after a car crash in his home country South Africa. Koertzen was part of the ICC's elite panel of umpires for eight years from 2002.

Former ICC umpire Rudi Koertzen dies aged 73, cricketers pay tribute

The debate regarding ODI cricket's relevance in the present era continues. Over the past few weeks, many former, as well as active cricketers and experts of the game,&nbsp;have opined on whether ODI cricket is losing its sheen and feel it cannot be compared to the shortest format in terms of entertainment value.&nbsp;

When it comes to T20 cricket, it is continuing its rapid rise with each passing year as many non-cricketing countries have also taken a liking to the sport by investing their time and energy in the format. On the other hand, Test cricket has seen some humdingers in the last few years and the emergence of the ICC World Test Championship has acted as a huge boost for the purest form of the game. Amid all this, ODI cricket remains stagnant and many feel several bilateral 50-over series need to cut down or the format can exist only in the form of the World Cup.

Amid all this, Ben Stokes' shocking ODI retirement -- citing difficulty in sustaining himself at the top level by playing all formats -- has intensified the whole debate. On Wednesday (July 27), ICC chief executive George Allardice said the structuring of the game's three formats was part of the discussion&nbsp;at the governing body's annual general meeting in Birmingham, where the Future Tours Programme (FTP) 2023-27 got finalised.

"I think at this stage there is some discussion, not specifically about ODIs, but about the mix of formats within the calendar," Allardice said in a video conference as per a report in Sky Sports. "Countries have been, in their FTPs, are still scheduling a healthy number of ODIs as well."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cut-odis-from-50-to-40-overs-ravi-shastri-gives-bold-suggestion-to-make-odi-cricket-entertaining-500704">'Cut ODIs from 50 to 40 overs': Ravi Shastri gives bold suggestion to make ODI cricket entertaining</a>

Further, Allardice stated that some members put "particular attention on their domestic leagues" but insisted that their commitment to international and bilateral cricket remains "as strong as it's ever been".

"Each of them has to manage that balance between domestic competitions, their international schedule and the management of their players. Each of those boards is in a slightly different situation. So there isn't a one-size-fits-all approach to that balancing issue," he added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wi-vs-ind-shikhar-dhawan-led-india-on-cusp-of-attaining-massive-feat-in-3rd-odi-in-trinidad-500893">WI vs IND: Shikhar Dhawan-led India on cusp of attaining MASSIVE feat in 3rd ODI in Trinidad</a>

Recently, former Indian head coach Ravi Shastri said on Fan Code, "There is no harm in shortening the span of the game. When one-day cricket started, it was of 60 overs. When we won the World Cup in 1983, it was of 60 overs. After that, people thought that 60 overs were a bit too long. People found that span of overs between 20 to 40 hard to digest. So they reduced it from 60 to 50."

"So years have gone by now since that decision so why not reduce it from 50 to 40 now. Because you got to be forward-thinking and evolve. It stayed for 50 for too long,” he added.

Meanwhile, the likes of Wasim Akram, Shahid Afridi and Usman Khawaja have also echoed similar sentiments whereas the likes of Quinton de Kock and Eoin Morgan have continued to back the 50-over format.

The debate regarding ODI cricket's relevance in the present era continues. Over the past few weeks, many former, as well as active cricketers and experts of the game, have opined on whether ODI cricket is losing its sheen and feel it cannot be compared to the shortest format in terms of entertainment value.

The debate regarding ODI cricket's relevance in the present era continues. Over the past few weeks, many former, as well as active cricketers and experts of the game, have opined on whether ODI cricket is losing its sheen and feel it cannot be compared to the shortest format in terms of entertainment value. When it comes to T20 cricket, it is continuing its rapid rise with each passing year as many non-cricketing countries have also taken a liking to the sport by investing their time and energy in the format. On the other hand, Test cricket has seen some humdingers in the last few years and the emergence of the ICC World Test Championship has acted as a huge boost for the purest form of the game. Amid all this, ODI cricket remains stagnant and many feel several bilateral 50-over series need to cut down or the format can exist only in the form of the World Cup. Amid all this, Ben Stokes' shocking ODI retirement -- citing difficulty in sustaining himself at the top level by playing all formats -- has intensified the whole debate. On Wednesday (July 27), ICC chief executive George Allardice said the structuring of the game's three formats was part of the discussion at the governing body's annual general meeting in Birmingham, where the Future Tours Programme (FTP) 2023-27 got finalised. "I think at this stage there is some discussion, not specifically about ODIs, but about the mix of formats within the calendar," Allardice said in a video conference as per a report in Sky Sports. "Countries have been, in their FTPs, are still scheduling a healthy number of ODIs as well." ALSO READ | 'Cut ODIs from 50 to 40 overs': Ravi Shastri gives bold suggestion to make ODI cricket entertaining Further, Allardice stated that some members put "particular attention on their domestic leagues" but insisted that their commitment to international and bilateral cricket remains "as strong as it's ever been". "Each of them has to manage that balance between domestic competitions, their international schedule and the management of their players. Each of those boards is in a slightly different situation. So there isn't a one-size-fits-all approach to that balancing issue," he added. ALSO READ | WI vs IND: Shikhar Dhawan-led India on cusp of attaining MASSIVE feat in 3rd ODI in Trinidad Recently, former Indian head coach Ravi Shastri said on Fan Code, "There is no harm in shortening the span of the game. When one-day cricket started, it was of 60 overs. When we won the World Cup in 1983, it was of 60 overs. After that, people thought that 60 overs were a bit too long. People found that span of overs between 20 to 40 hard to digest. So they reduced it from 60 to 50." "So years have gone by now since that decision so why not reduce it from 50 to 40 now. Because you got to be forward-thinking and evolve. It stayed for 50 for too long,” he added. Meanwhile, the likes of Wasim Akram, Shahid Afridi and Usman Khawaja have also echoed similar sentiments whereas the likes of Quinton de Kock and Eoin Morgan have continued to back the 50-over format.

Is ODI cricket on the decline? ICC plays down threat to shorter format

Ben Stokes announced his retirement from ODI cricket on Monday (July 18), a day after India won the 50-over series versus hosts Jos Buttler-led England (also a day prior to English side's ongoing home ODIs versus South Africa).

Stokes retirement has led to many questioning the relevance of ODI cricket, especially since the surge of T20s. A lot of white-ball ICC events are lined-up each year, till 2031, along with the ICC Test Championship cycles as well. Hence, players are finding it tough to sustain themselves across formats and also be present for franchise cricket. Hence, Stokes walked away from the 50-over format, being part of England's memorable 2019 World Cup triumph. Recently, former English captain-turned-commentator Nasser Hussain opined that&nbsp;the all-rounder's decision came as he feared he will become 'stale' playing all forms of the game.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/one-of-the-greatest-ever-ben-stokes-responds-to-virat-kohlis-message-ahead-of-his-last-odi-for-england-498914">'One of the greatest ever': Ben Stokes responds to Virat Kohli's message ahead of his last ODI for England</a>

Hussain also pointed out Virat Kohli and Kane Williamson's current struggles, who are&nbsp;playing all formats at regular intervals and finding it tough as well. In his coloum for The Daily Mail, Hussain wrote, "Every time he [Stokes] goes onto that field, he wants to be 100% committed, not 80% - and that is what makes him the player he is."

"Some might suggest 80% of Stokes is enough but the problem is that once you play at 80%, it can lead lead to a drop in performance in another format. Just look at what has happened to Virat Kohli and Kane Williamson, for example. He doesn't want to become stale. Or go through the motions. He couldn't do that," he mentioned.

"Yes, his decision was something of a shout to the administrators because at the age of 31 someone like him shouldn't have to retire from a certain format," Nasser added.

For the unversed, both Williamson and Kohli are struggling for form at the moment. While Kohli's century-drought continues since late 2019, he also ended the England tour without a fifty. Williamson, on the other hand, scored only a solitary fifty in IPL 2022 and returned with not even a single half-century in the NZ's away Tests versus England.

<section>
ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-are-not-cars-you-can-fill-up-with-petrol-ben-stokes-explains-reason-behind-his-shock-odi-retirment-498946">We are not cars you can fill up with petrol: Ben Stokes explains reason behind his shock ODI retirement</a>

In Stokes' last ODI, played at his home ground at&nbsp;Riverside Ground, Chester-le-Street in Durham, the left-hander managed only five runs and remained wicketless as Rassie van der Dussen's 134 propelled SA to a convincing 62-run win as visitors went 1-0 up in the three-match series. He ended with&nbsp;2,924&nbsp;runs and 74 wickets, overall, in the ODI format.
</section>

Ben Stokes announced his retirement from ODI cricket on Monday (July 18), a day after India won the 50-over series versus hosts Jos Buttler-led England (also a day prior to English side's ongoing home ODIs versus South Africa).

Ben Stokes announced his retirement from ODI cricket on Monday (July 18), a day after India won the 50-over series versus hosts Jos Buttler-led England (also a day prior to English side's ongoing home ODIs versus South Africa). Stokes retirement has led to many questioning the relevance of ODI cricket, especially since the surge of T20s. A lot of white-ball ICC events are lined-up each year, till 2031, along with the ICC Test Championship cycles as well. Hence, players are finding it tough to sustain themselves across formats and also be present for franchise cricket. Hence, Stokes walked away from the 50-over format, being part of England's memorable 2019 World Cup triumph. Recently, former English captain-turned-commentator Nasser Hussain opined that the all-rounder's decision came as he feared he will become 'stale' playing all forms of the game. ALSO READ | 'One of the greatest ever': Ben Stokes responds to Virat Kohli's message ahead of his last ODI for England Hussain also pointed out Virat Kohli and Kane Williamson's current struggles, who are playing all formats at regular intervals and finding it tough as well. In his coloum for The Daily Mail, Hussain wrote, "Every time he [Stokes] goes onto that field, he wants to be 100% committed, not 80% - and that is what makes him the player he is." "Some might suggest 80% of Stokes is enough but the problem is that once you play at 80%, it can lead lead to a drop in performance in another format. Just look at what has happened to Virat Kohli and Kane Williamson, for example. He doesn't want to become stale. Or go through the motions. He couldn't do that," he mentioned. "Yes, his decision was something of a shout to the administrators because at the age of 31 someone like him shouldn't have to retire from a certain format," Nasser added. For the unversed, both Williamson and Kohli are struggling for form at the moment. While Kohli's century-drought continues since late 2019, he also ended the England tour without a fifty. Williamson, on the other hand, scored only a solitary fifty in IPL 2022 and returned with not even a single half-century in the NZ's away Tests versus England. ALSO READ | We are not cars you can fill up with petrol: Ben Stokes explains reason behind his shock ODI retirement In Stokes' last ODI, played at his home ground at Riverside Ground, Chester-le-Street in Durham, the left-hander managed only five runs and remained wicketless as Rassie van der Dussen's 134 propelled SA to a convincing 62-run win as visitors went 1-0 up in the three-match series. He ended with 2,924 runs and 74 wickets, overall, in the ODI format.

Look what happened to Virat Kohli, Kane Williamson: Nasser Hussain reacts to Ben Stokes' ODI retirement

The chief executive of Ukraine's cricket board says it "ticks all the boxes" to become an associate member of the International Cricket Council (ICC) and that the game would not survive if it was denied entry. Ukraine is expected to get second-tier membership at the governing body`s board meeting this month, entitling the war-torn country to Twenty20 International status and funds from the ICC, which has earmarked $30.8 million for its 96 associate members this year.

The Ukraine Cricket Federation (UCF) has been organising cricket for the last two decades and has a pool of 15,000 students, most of them Indian, at the senior level. Its chief executive Kobus Olivier told Reuters it met all the ICC requirements before Russia invaded.

"We ticked all the boxes on Feb. 24 when the war started," he said. "I have so much belief in this process ... and I am absolutely confident Ukraine will be an associate member of the ICC." Olivier, a South African, said the ICC should take note of how the EU "fast-tracked" Ukraine`s candidate status to join the bloc, saying it set a "very good precedent".

UCF President Hardeep Singh has made arrangements for national team players to train in India while Olivier set up base in Zagreb after fleeing Kyiv. He is effectively running the UCF`s junior and women cricket programmes from Zagreb and engaging refugees, mostly mothers and children, in cricket-in-the-park sessions three days a week.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bharat-armys-epic-response-wins-the-internet-after-barmy-army-claims-virat-kohli-was-dropped-for-1st-odi-496906">Bharat Army's epic response wins the internet after Barmy Army claims Virat Kohli was dropped for 1st ODI</a>

"These refugee mothers are actually going to make the Ukrainian national team in a couple of years," said Olivier, whose own escape from Kyiv, along with his four pet dogs, is the subject of a documentary. 
Olivier is also planning to host a `Ukrainian Freedom Cup` in Zagreb next month with teams from Serbia, Slovenia, Hungary and Czech Republic. If the ICC rejects its membership application the consequences for the game in Ukraine would be dire, Olivier said.

"It will be the end of cricket in Ukraine," he said. The Lord`s Taverners, a British charity, and the MCC Foundation, the charity arm of cricket`s lawmakers, have given support to the UCF but sponsorship funds have dried up.

ICC membership would make the UCF eligible for government funding and could attract new sponsors. 
"It will be a snowball effect," said Olivier.

The chief executive of Ukraine's cricket board says it "ticks all the boxes" to become an associate member of the International Cricket Council (ICC) and that the game would not survive if it was denied entry.

The chief executive of Ukraine's cricket board says it "ticks all the boxes" to become an associate member of the International Cricket Council (ICC) and that the game would not survive if it was denied entry. Ukraine is expected to get second-tier membership at the governing body`s board meeting this month, entitling the war-torn country to Twenty20 International status and funds from the ICC, which has earmarked $30.8 million for its 96 associate members this year. The Ukraine Cricket Federation (UCF) has been organising cricket for the last two decades and has a pool of 15,000 students, most of them Indian, at the senior level. Its chief executive Kobus Olivier told Reuters it met all the ICC requirements before Russia invaded. "We ticked all the boxes on Feb. 24 when the war started," he said. "I have so much belief in this process ... and I am absolutely confident Ukraine will be an associate member of the ICC." Olivier, a South African, said the ICC should take note of how the EU "fast-tracked" Ukraine`s candidate status to join the bloc, saying it set a "very good precedent". UCF President Hardeep Singh has made arrangements for national team players to train in India while Olivier set up base in Zagreb after fleeing Kyiv. He is effectively running the UCF`s junior and women cricket programmes from Zagreb and engaging refugees, mostly mothers and children, in cricket-in-the-park sessions three days a week. ALSO READ | Bharat Army's epic response wins the internet after Barmy Army claims Virat Kohli was dropped for 1st ODI "These refugee mothers are actually going to make the Ukrainian national team in a couple of years," said Olivier, whose own escape from Kyiv, along with his four pet dogs, is the subject of a documentary. Olivier is also planning to host a `Ukrainian Freedom Cup` in Zagreb next month with teams from Serbia, Slovenia, Hungary and Czech Republic. If the ICC rejects its membership application the consequences for the game in Ukraine would be dire, Olivier said. "It will be the end of cricket in Ukraine," he said. The Lord`s Taverners, a British charity, and the MCC Foundation, the charity arm of cricket`s lawmakers, have given support to the UCF but sponsorship funds have dried up. ICC membership would make the UCF eligible for government funding and could attract new sponsors. "It will be a snowball effect," said Olivier.

Cricket: Ukraine hopeful of ICC membership for game to survive in war-torn country

Asad Rauf umpired in as many as 170 international games, comprising&nbsp;49 Tests, 98 ODIs and 23 T20Is. He made a career out of cricket and was part of ICC's elite panel of umpires as well. During his umpiring career, spanning from 2000 to 2013, Rauf dealt with a major blow after allegations of match-fixing were levelled against him during the infamous IPL 2013 edition in India. Back then, the veteran umpire was accused of accepting expensive gifts from bookies as well as&nbsp;placing bets in several games during the&nbsp;sixth edition of the cash-rich league.

In early 2016, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) imposed a five-year ban on Rauf, for corrupt practices and tarnishing the reputation of the game, which essentially ended his umpiring stint once and for all. At present, he runs&nbsp;two shops in Landa Bazar, Lahore (one that deals with selling second-hand apparel and the other&nbsp;of crockeries). Thus, Rauf has moved on from the infamous episode and claimed to have not been following the gentlemen's game since 2013.&nbsp;

During a recent interview with a Pakistani news channel, Paktv.tv, Rauf stated, "No, I’ve umpired in so many games all my life, there’s no one left to see now. I haven’t been in touch with the game since 2013, because once I leave something I leave it completely,” he further responded.

On the match-fixing allegations, Rauf opined, "I have spent my best time in IPL, apart from these issues that came later on,” he said. “I had nothing to do with these issues, the allegations came from the BCCI’s side and they took the decision on me themselves."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pains-me-to-see-such-a-big-player-kapil-dev-opines-on-superstar-virat-kohlis-century-drought-491013">'Pains me to see such a big player.....': Kapil Dev opines on superstar Virat Kohli's century drought</a>

In 2012, there was a serious allegation against Rauf when a Mumbai model had levelled charges of sexual exploitation. She had&nbsp;further mentioned that the two had an affair and it was prolonged due to Rauf's promise of marrying her. However, she claimed that he had&nbsp;later backed out.&nbsp;

To this, Rauf said, "Ladki waala maamla jab aaya tha, toh mai to uske agle saal bhi IPL krwane gaya tha&nbsp;(Even after the allegations from the girl, I had umpired in the IPL next season)."

He concluded by saying, "Meri aadat hai, jis kaam ko shuru karta hu uski peak pe jaata hu. Maine landai ka kaam shuru kiya hai, iski bhi peak pe mai gaya hu. Maine cricket kheli hai toh iski bhi peak pe mai gaya hu. Aur phir maine umpiring shuru ki, toh maine socha ki iski bhi peak pe hi jaana chahiye&nbsp;(It is my habit to reach the peak of whatever work I do. I started work as a shopkeeper, I have reached its peak. I played cricket, I reached the peak. And then when I started out as an umpire, I said to myself that I need to reach the peak here as well)."

Asad Rauf umpired in as many as 170 international games, comprising 49 Tests, 98 ODIs and 23 T20Is. He made a career out of cricket and was part of ICC's elite panel of umpires as well.

Asad Rauf umpired in as many as 170 international games, comprising 49 Tests, 98 ODIs and 23 T20Is. He made a career out of cricket and was part of ICC's elite panel of umpires as well. During his umpiring career, spanning from 2000 to 2013, Rauf dealt with a major blow after allegations of match-fixing were levelled against him during the infamous IPL 2013 edition in India. Back then, the veteran umpire was accused of accepting expensive gifts from bookies as well as placing bets in several games during the sixth edition of the cash-rich league. In early 2016, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) imposed a five-year ban on Rauf, for corrupt practices and tarnishing the reputation of the game, which essentially ended his umpiring stint once and for all. At present, he runs two shops in Landa Bazar, Lahore (one that deals with selling second-hand apparel and the other of crockeries). Thus, Rauf has moved on from the infamous episode and claimed to have not been following the gentlemen's game since 2013. During a recent interview with a Pakistani news channel, Paktv.tv, Rauf stated, "No, I’ve umpired in so many games all my life, there’s no one left to see now. I haven’t been in touch with the game since 2013, because once I leave something I leave it completely,” he further responded. On the match-fixing allegations, Rauf opined, "I have spent my best time in IPL, apart from these issues that came later on,” he said. “I had nothing to do with these issues, the allegations came from the BCCI’s side and they took the decision on me themselves." ALSO READ | 'Pains me to see such a big player.....': Kapil Dev opines on superstar Virat Kohli's century drought In 2012, there was a serious allegation against Rauf when a Mumbai model had levelled charges of sexual exploitation. She had further mentioned that the two had an affair and it was prolonged due to Rauf's promise of marrying her. However, she claimed that he had later backed out. To this, Rauf said, "Ladki waala maamla jab aaya tha, toh mai to uske agle saal bhi IPL krwane gaya tha (Even after the allegations from the girl, I had umpired in the IPL next season)." He concluded by saying, "Meri aadat hai, jis kaam ko shuru karta hu uski peak pe jaata hu. Maine landai ka kaam shuru kiya hai, iski bhi peak pe mai gaya hu. Maine cricket kheli hai toh iski bhi peak pe mai gaya hu. Aur phir maine umpiring shuru ki, toh maine socha ki iski bhi peak pe hi jaana chahiye (It is my habit to reach the peak of whatever work I do. I started work as a shopkeeper, I have reached its peak. I played cricket, I reached the peak. And then when I started out as an umpire, I said to myself that I need to reach the peak here as well)."

Tainted umpire Asad Rauf, who now owns two shops in Lahore, claims of not following cricket since 2013

Following the end of the IPL media rights auction, BCCI Secretary Jay Shah had made a big revelation that the board plans to extend the window for the cash-rich league from the next season, in order to have more international players available throughout an edition. Following this, reports were flowing in that the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is unhappy with this development and is set to discuss the matter at ICC's board meeting, to be held later this year in Birmingham.

"From the next FTP cycle, IPL will have an official two-and-a-half-month window so that all the top international cricketers can participate. We have had discussions with various boards as well as the ICC," Shah had told PTI.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-is-a-good-team-but-rashid-latif-makes-big-statement-on-men-in-blues-rivalry-with-pakistan-491292">'India is a good team, but....' - Rashid Latif makes big statement on Men in Blue's rivalry with Pakistan</a>

Thus, Pakistan Cricket Board's (PCB) chairman Ramiz Raja has now reacted to the proposed plan of extending the IPL window from next year. In this regard, the former Pakistan captain said during a media interaction on Friday (June 24), "There has been no announcement or decision as yet on the IPL window being increased. I will give my views on this issue at the ICC conference."

Ramiz has also opined on his plans of seeing India-Pakistan lock horns on the 22-yard cricket strip outside ICC tournaments. In this context, he&nbsp;had suggested for a multi-team tournament several times in the recent past. He revealed, "I have spoken to Sourav on the sidelines on this, and I told him that presently there are three former cricketers heading their cricket boards and if they can't make a difference, who will? Twice Ganguly has invited me to attend the IPL finals last year and this year, and cricketing-wise, it made sense to go, but then, because of the situation, we had to look at the fallout of accepting the invitations," he further added.

Following the end of the IPL media rights auction, BCCI Secretary Jay Shah had made a big revelation that the board plans to extend the window for the cash-rich league from the next season, in order to have more international players available throughout an edition.

Following the end of the IPL media rights auction, BCCI Secretary Jay Shah had made a big revelation that the board plans to extend the window for the cash-rich league from the next season, in order to have more international players available throughout an edition. Following this, reports were flowing in that the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is unhappy with this development and is set to discuss the matter at ICC's board meeting, to be held later this year in Birmingham. "From the next FTP cycle, IPL will have an official two-and-a-half-month window so that all the top international cricketers can participate. We have had discussions with various boards as well as the ICC," Shah had told PTI. ALSO READ | 'India is a good team, but....' - Rashid Latif makes big statement on Men in Blue's rivalry with Pakistan Thus, Pakistan Cricket Board's (PCB) chairman Ramiz Raja has now reacted to the proposed plan of extending the IPL window from next year. In this regard, the former Pakistan captain said during a media interaction on Friday (June 24), "There has been no announcement or decision as yet on the IPL window being increased. I will give my views on this issue at the ICC conference." Ramiz has also opined on his plans of seeing India-Pakistan lock horns on the 22-yard cricket strip outside ICC tournaments. In this context, he had suggested for a multi-team tournament several times in the recent past. He revealed, "I have spoken to Sourav on the sidelines on this, and I told him that presently there are three former cricketers heading their cricket boards and if they can't make a difference, who will? Twice Ganguly has invited me to attend the IPL finals last year and this year, and cricketing-wise, it made sense to go, but then, because of the situation, we had to look at the fallout of accepting the invitations," he further added.

'Will challenge it....' - PCB chairman Ramiz Raja breaks silence on IPL's two-and-a-half month window

Former Pakistan captain and all-rounder Shahid Afridi has lavished huge praise on Indian cricket and hailed it for its massive influence on world cricket. Afridi's remark came after BCCI Secretary Jay Shah recently announced that the cash-rich Indian Premier League (IPL) will have a two-and-a-half-month window from next year.

After the IPL media rights were sold for a whopping amount last week, BCCI announced its intention of extending the window for the premier T20 league going forward.&nbsp;For a cumulative figure of INR 48,390.32 crores, the successful bidders -- Disney Star, Viacom18 and Times Internet -- secured media rights for a five-year cycle, from 2023-2027. Thus, it shows the growth of the IPL and also the dominance of&nbsp;Indian cricket.

In this regard, Afridi lauded India and was quoted as saying by Samaa TV, "It all comes down to the market and the economy. The biggest [cricket] market is India. Whatever they will say will happen."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/is-he-still-playing-cricket-with-same-motivation-afridi-talks-about-attitude-as-he-dwells-on-kohlis-form-488449">'Is he still playing cricket with same motivation?' Afridi talks about 'attitude' as he dwells on Kohli's form</a>

For the unversed, Afridi was one of the few Pakistani players who were part of the inaugural season of the IPL, in 2008. Back then, the 42-year-old was part of the now-defunct Deccan Chargers (DC). Since the first season, no Pakistani has been allowed to take part in the league due to the political tension between the two neighbouring countries.

Meanwhile,&nbsp;the IPL will now have 410 games in the next cycle. There will continue to be&nbsp;74 games each in the next two seasons whereas the number of matches will increase by ten&nbsp;(84)&nbsp;in the following and then be a total of 94 in the 2027 edition of the cash-rich league.

Former Pakistan captain and all-rounder Shahid Afridi has lavished huge praise on Indian cricket and hailed it for its massive influence on world cricket. Afridi's remark came after BCCI Secretary Jay Shah recently announced that the cash-rich Indian Premier League (IPL) will have a two-and-a-half-month window from next year.

Former Pakistan captain and all-rounder Shahid Afridi has lavished huge praise on Indian cricket and hailed it for its massive influence on world cricket. Afridi's remark came after BCCI Secretary Jay Shah recently announced that the cash-rich Indian Premier League (IPL) will have a two-and-a-half-month window from next year. After the IPL media rights were sold for a whopping amount last week, BCCI announced its intention of extending the window for the premier T20 league going forward. For a cumulative figure of INR 48,390.32 crores, the successful bidders -- Disney Star, Viacom18 and Times Internet -- secured media rights for a five-year cycle, from 2023-2027. Thus, it shows the growth of the IPL and also the dominance of Indian cricket. In this regard, Afridi lauded India and was quoted as saying by Samaa TV, "It all comes down to the market and the economy. The biggest [cricket] market is India. Whatever they will say will happen." ALSO READ | 'Is he still playing cricket with same motivation?' Afridi talks about 'attitude' as he dwells on Kohli's form For the unversed, Afridi was one of the few Pakistani players who were part of the inaugural season of the IPL, in 2008. Back then, the 42-year-old was part of the now-defunct Deccan Chargers (DC). Since the first season, no Pakistani has been allowed to take part in the league due to the political tension between the two neighbouring countries. Meanwhile, the IPL will now have 410 games in the next cycle. There will continue to be 74 games each in the next two seasons whereas the number of matches will increase by ten (84) in the following and then be a total of 94 in the 2027 edition of the cash-rich league.

'Whatever they will say will happen' - Shahid Afridi lauds India for huge influence it has on world cricket

For the first time ever, men`s and women`s cricket rights will be sold separately for the Indian market by International Cricket Council (ICC). The prospective partners of the apex cricketing body can bid for 16 Men`s events (over 8 years) and six Women`s events (over 4 years), totalling 362 and 103 matches respectively.

These total matches mentioned will account for ICC senior event matches only. Men`s and Women`s Under 19 CWC/T20WC matches will form a part of the tender but are in addition to these figures. Interested parties will be required to submit a bid for the first four years of men`s events. However, they also have the option of bidding for an eight-year partnership. The International Cricket Council will release its first Invitation To Tender (ITT) for media rights for the next cycle of ICC events starting in 2024 on Monday, June 20.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/after-a-nine-year-hiatus-acc-womens-t20-championship-returns-488840">After a nine-year hiatus, ACC Women's T20 Championship returns</a>

The ITT is for the Indian market only, with up to six packages available across TV only, digital-only or a combination of both.ICC Chief Executive Geoff Allardice said: "International cricket consistently attracts huge audiences and that is driving significant interest from broadcasters for ICC events. We have more than one billion fans that passionately follow the game globally, and they will be looking forward to seeing the best players in the world competing for cricket`s most prestigious trophies.

"There has been significant growth in interest in women`s cricket over the last five years and we have made a long-term strategic commitment to accelerate that growth and unbundling the rights for our women`s events will play a huge role in that. We are looking for a broadcast partner who is excited by the role they will play in growing the women`s game and ensuring more fans than ever before can enjoy it," he added.The ITT will be released on June 20 and interested parties need to email: iccmediarights2024-2031@icc-cricket.com to access the tender documents. A decision will be made by the ICC Board in September 2022. The ITTs for additional markets will be released following that.

For the first time ever, men`s and women`s cricket rights will be sold separately for the Indian market by International Cricket Council (ICC). The prospective partners of the apex cricketing body can bid for 16 Men`s events (over 8 years) and six Women`s events (over 4 years), totalling 362 and 103 matches respectively.

For the first time ever, men`s and women`s cricket rights will be sold separately for the Indian market by International Cricket Council (ICC). The prospective partners of the apex cricketing body can bid for 16 Men`s events (over 8 years) and six Women`s events (over 4 years), totalling 362 and 103 matches respectively. These total matches mentioned will account for ICC senior event matches only. Men`s and Women`s Under 19 CWC/T20WC matches will form a part of the tender but are in addition to these figures. Interested parties will be required to submit a bid for the first four years of men`s events. However, they also have the option of bidding for an eight-year partnership. The International Cricket Council will release its first Invitation To Tender (ITT) for media rights for the next cycle of ICC events starting in 2024 on Monday, June 20. ALSO READ | After a nine-year hiatus, ACC Women's T20 Championship returns The ITT is for the Indian market only, with up to six packages available across TV only, digital-only or a combination of both.ICC Chief Executive Geoff Allardice said: "International cricket consistently attracts huge audiences and that is driving significant interest from broadcasters for ICC events. We have more than one billion fans that passionately follow the game globally, and they will be looking forward to seeing the best players in the world competing for cricket`s most prestigious trophies. "There has been significant growth in interest in women`s cricket over the last five years and we have made a long-term strategic commitment to accelerate that growth and unbundling the rights for our women`s events will play a huge role in that. We are looking for a broadcast partner who is excited by the role they will play in growing the women`s game and ensuring more fans than ever before can enjoy it," he added.The ITT will be released on June 20 and interested parties need to email: iccmediarights2024-2031@icc-cricket.com to access the tender documents. A decision will be made by the ICC Board in September 2022. The ITTs for additional markets will be released following that.

For first time ever, ICC set to sell men's and women's cricket rights separately from 2024

The Dutch intelligence service said on Thursday it had stopped a Russian spy claiming to be a 33-year-old Brazilian citizen named Viktor Muller Ferreira, who was posing as an intern from accessing the Hague-based International Criminal Court, which is investigating war crimes in Ukraine.

The Dutch named him Sergey Vladimirovich Cherkasov. The man used a Brazilian cover identity but was unmasked as a member of Russia's GRU military intelligence and refused entry in April as a "threat to national security", the AIVD (General Intelligence and Security Service) said in a statement.

"The AIVD prevented a Russian intelligence officer from gaining access as an intern to the International Criminal Court (ICC) in The Hague," the AIVD statement said.

"The person in question works for the Russian Military Intelligence Service GRU, but he used a Brazilian cover identity to travel from Brazil to the Netherlands," AVID added.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-ukraine-bids-farewell-to-its-war-heroes-488400">In pics: Ukraine bids farewell to its war heroes</a>

Covert access to the Hague-based ICC would be "highly valuable to the Russian intelligence services" as it is probing both Ukraine and the Russian war in Georgia in 2008. The illegal was supposed to commence an internship with the ICC, which would mean he would have access to the ICC's building and systems.

Had the Russian spy succeeded "he would have been able to gather intelligence there and to look for (or recruit) sources, and arrange to have access to the ICC’s digital systems, he might also have been able to influence criminal proceedings of the ICC," it added.

The Dutch agency said it "holds him to be a threat to national security" and alerted the immigration services before his arrival. "On these grounds, the intelligence officer was refused entry into the Netherlands in April and declared unacceptable. He was sent back to Brazil on the first flight out," it said.

The ICC has also been informed of this case. There was no immediate response from the ICC, which opened a probe into potential war crimes in Ukraine shortly after Russia's invasion on February 24.

(with inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

The Dutch intelligence service said on Thursday it had stopped a Russian spy claiming to be a 33-year-old Brazilian citizen named Viktor Muller Ferreira, who was posing as an intern from accessing the Hague-based International Criminal Court, which is investigating war crimes in Ukraine.

The Dutch intelligence service said on Thursday it had stopped a Russian spy claiming to be a 33-year-old Brazilian citizen named Viktor Muller Ferreira, who was posing as an intern from accessing the Hague-based International Criminal Court, which is investigating war crimes in Ukraine. The Dutch named him Sergey Vladimirovich Cherkasov. The man used a Brazilian cover identity but was unmasked as a member of Russia's GRU military intelligence and refused entry in April as a "threat to national security", the AIVD (General Intelligence and Security Service) said in a statement. "The AIVD prevented a Russian intelligence officer from gaining access as an intern to the International Criminal Court (ICC) in The Hague," the AIVD statement said. "The person in question works for the Russian Military Intelligence Service GRU, but he used a Brazilian cover identity to travel from Brazil to the Netherlands," AVID added. Also Read: In pics: Ukraine bids farewell to its war heroes Covert access to the Hague-based ICC would be "highly valuable to the Russian intelligence services" as it is probing both Ukraine and the Russian war in Georgia in 2008. The illegal was supposed to commence an internship with the ICC, which would mean he would have access to the ICC's building and systems. Had the Russian spy succeeded "he would have been able to gather intelligence there and to look for (or recruit) sources, and arrange to have access to the ICC’s digital systems, he might also have been able to influence criminal proceedings of the ICC," it added. The Dutch agency said it "holds him to be a threat to national security" and alerted the immigration services before his arrival. "On these grounds, the intelligence officer was refused entry into the Netherlands in April and declared unacceptable. He was sent back to Brazil on the first flight out," it said. The ICC has also been informed of this case. There was no immediate response from the ICC, which opened a probe into potential war crimes in Ukraine shortly after Russia's invasion on February 24. (with inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Dutch intelligence stops Russian spy from entering ICC investigating war crimes in Ukraine

Pakistan opener Imam-ul-Haq has surpassed Virat Kohli to get to the second spot in the ICC One Day International Batter Rankings. The southpaw was earlier in third place in the rankings just below his captain Babar Azam and the former India skipper Virat Kohli. A brilliant performance in the home series has brought him four points clear of Kohli at number two, a career-best ranking for him. Imam inspired Pakistan to clean sweep West Indies 3-0 in the recent ODI series at home, smashing three half-centuries. His form was duly rewarded as he won the Player of the Series award and made a move on the latest rankings that were released on Wednesday.

The 26-year-old jumped a massive 20 rating points to move in front of Kohli and now has a career-best mark of 815 rating points. That is, of course, still well behind Babar`s mark of 892, with the Pakistan captain holding his massive lead at the top of the ODI batter rankings following his 17th ODI century in the first match against West Indies. Kohli, who was only second to Babar in the rankings now sits at the third spot with 811 points, just above India`s current ODI captain, Rohit Sharma.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/babar-azam-has-almost-overtaken-his-next-door-neighbour-virat-kohli-feels-former-wi-pacer-488693">Babar Azam has 'almost overtaken' his next-door neighbour Virat Kohli, feels former WI pacer</a>

There were some other minor moves in the top 10, with Aaron Finch going to ninth spot as his Australia team-mate David Warner dropped to 10th - while England`s Jonny Bairstow fell two places to eighth and South Africa`s Rassie van der Dussen hopped a spot to seventh.Pakistan pacer Shaheen Afridi jumped two places to fourth following his good series with the ball against West Indies. New Zealand fast bowler Trent Boult remains on top of the bowler rankings, but Australia seamer Josh Hazlewood and Kiwi team-mate Matt Henry are closing in after they jumped one spot to second and third respectively. England pacer Chris Woakes was out of the top five as he fell four spots to equal sixth, tied with Mujeeb Ur Rahman after the Afghanistan spinner rose two places.

In the ranking for all-rounders, the biggest mover is Oman`s Zeeshan Maqsood, jumping 13 places to 10th following a string of outstanding performances in the ICC Cricket World Cup League 2 action.The experienced 34-year-old scored an unbeaten century against Nepal earlier this month and then backed that up with a four-wicket haul with the ball in Oman`s match against the USA.

Pakistan opener Imam-ul-Haq has surpassed Virat Kohli to get to the second spot in the ICC One Day International Batter Rankings. The southpaw was earlier in third place in the rankings just below his captain Babar Azam and the former India skipper Virat Kohli.

Pakistan opener Imam-ul-Haq has surpassed Virat Kohli to get to the second spot in the ICC One Day International Batter Rankings. The southpaw was earlier in third place in the rankings just below his captain Babar Azam and the former India skipper Virat Kohli. A brilliant performance in the home series has brought him four points clear of Kohli at number two, a career-best ranking for him. Imam inspired Pakistan to clean sweep West Indies 3-0 in the recent ODI series at home, smashing three half-centuries. His form was duly rewarded as he won the Player of the Series award and made a move on the latest rankings that were released on Wednesday. The 26-year-old jumped a massive 20 rating points to move in front of Kohli and now has a career-best mark of 815 rating points. That is, of course, still well behind Babar`s mark of 892, with the Pakistan captain holding his massive lead at the top of the ODI batter rankings following his 17th ODI century in the first match against West Indies. Kohli, who was only second to Babar in the rankings now sits at the third spot with 811 points, just above India`s current ODI captain, Rohit Sharma. ALSO READ | Babar Azam has 'almost overtaken' his next-door neighbour Virat Kohli, feels former WI pacer There were some other minor moves in the top 10, with Aaron Finch going to ninth spot as his Australia team-mate David Warner dropped to 10th - while England`s Jonny Bairstow fell two places to eighth and South Africa`s Rassie van der Dussen hopped a spot to seventh.Pakistan pacer Shaheen Afridi jumped two places to fourth following his good series with the ball against West Indies. New Zealand fast bowler Trent Boult remains on top of the bowler rankings, but Australia seamer Josh Hazlewood and Kiwi team-mate Matt Henry are closing in after they jumped one spot to second and third respectively. England pacer Chris Woakes was out of the top five as he fell four spots to equal sixth, tied with Mujeeb Ur Rahman after the Afghanistan spinner rose two places. In the ranking for all-rounders, the biggest mover is Oman`s Zeeshan Maqsood, jumping 13 places to 10th following a string of outstanding performances in the ICC Cricket World Cup League 2 action.The experienced 34-year-old scored an unbeaten century against Nepal earlier this month and then backed that up with a four-wicket haul with the ball in Oman`s match against the USA.

ICC ODI Rankings: Pakistan opener Imam-ul-Haq overtakes Virat Kohli, Babar Azam firm on top

The IPL media rights auction was a huge hit as many had their eyes glued on how the proceedings would eventually end. After a three-day auction, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI)&nbsp;laughed its way to the bank by earning a staggering&nbsp;INR 48,390.52 crore from the media rights auction for IPL 2023-27, i.e.&nbsp;more than&nbsp;two and a half times the amount it earned for the previous cycle&nbsp;in 2018.

Thus, IPL continues to grow worldwide and is now also the second most lucrative sports league across the globe, only behind National Football League (NFL). After the auction, BCCI Secretary Jay Shah was elated with IPL's rising demand and revealed that from the next season, the cash-rich league's window will expand further, i.e. for a two-and-a-half-month period.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/listing-worlds-most-lucrative-sports-leagues-after-ipl-media-rights-auction-488414">Listing world's most lucrative sports leagues after IPL media rights auction</a>

"From the next FTP cycle, IPL will have an official two-and-a-half-month window so that all the top international cricketers can participate. We have had discussions with various boards as well as the ICC," Shah had said in an interview with PTI. However, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) isn't happy with this development.

Reacting to Shah's revelation, PCB is now eyeing the ICC board meeting at the Commonwealth Games in Birmingham to discuss the topic in length.

"The ICC board meeting will be held during the Commonwealth Games in Birmingham in July and this matter will probably be discussed there," a PCB source said, as per PTI. "Mr Jay Shah has said the BCCI is committed to international bilateral cricket but with so many leagues cropping up and the IPL planning expansion this has to be discussed among the cricket boards," the PCB official further added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/is-he-still-playing-cricket-with-same-motivation-afridi-talks-about-attitude-as-he-dwells-on-kohlis-form-488449">'Is he still playing cricket with same motivation?' Afridi talks about 'attitude' as he dwells on Kohli's form</a>

It will be interesting to see if the discussion is carried out at the next ICC board meeting, in Birmingham. If it does, its conclusion will be keenly awaited among all cricket fans.&nbsp;

The IPL media rights auction was a huge hit as many had their eyes glued on how the proceedings would eventually end. After a three-day auction, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) laughed its way to the bank by earning a staggering INR 48,390.

The IPL media rights auction was a huge hit as many had their eyes glued on how the proceedings would eventually end. After a three-day auction, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) laughed its way to the bank by earning a staggering INR 48,390.52 crore from the media rights auction for IPL 2023-27, i.e. more than two and a half times the amount it earned for the previous cycle in 2018. Thus, IPL continues to grow worldwide and is now also the second most lucrative sports league across the globe, only behind National Football League (NFL). After the auction, BCCI Secretary Jay Shah was elated with IPL's rising demand and revealed that from the next season, the cash-rich league's window will expand further, i.e. for a two-and-a-half-month period. ALSO READ | Listing world's most lucrative sports leagues after IPL media rights auction "From the next FTP cycle, IPL will have an official two-and-a-half-month window so that all the top international cricketers can participate. We have had discussions with various boards as well as the ICC," Shah had said in an interview with PTI. However, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) isn't happy with this development. Reacting to Shah's revelation, PCB is now eyeing the ICC board meeting at the Commonwealth Games in Birmingham to discuss the topic in length. "The ICC board meeting will be held during the Commonwealth Games in Birmingham in July and this matter will probably be discussed there," a PCB source said, as per PTI. "Mr Jay Shah has said the BCCI is committed to international bilateral cricket but with so many leagues cropping up and the IPL planning expansion this has to be discussed among the cricket boards," the PCB official further added. ALSO READ | 'Is he still playing cricket with same motivation?' Afridi talks about 'attitude' as he dwells on Kohli's form It will be interesting to see if the discussion is carried out at the next ICC board meeting, in Birmingham. If it does, its conclusion will be keenly awaited among all cricket fans.

PCB unhappy with IPL's 'two-and-a-half month window'? Discussion likely in ICC's board meeting

Indian pacer Jasprit Bumrah has risen to the third spot in the latest ICC Men`s Test Bowler Rankings. There was some reshuffling in the latest bowling rankings with towering Kiwi quick Kyle Jamieson dropping three places to sixth after he injured his back against England. That allowed India speedster Jasprit Bumrah (third), Pakistan pacer Shaheen Afridi (fourth) and South Africa quick Kagiso Rabada (fifth) to all rise a spot, while a pair of Jamieson's New Zealand team-mates swapped positions inside the top 10. Experienced left-armer Trent Boult jumped four places to ninth on the bowling rankings, but that saw compatriot Tim Southee demoted five spots to 13th.

England batter Joe Root claimed the top spot in the latest ICC Men`s Test Batter Rankings, ending the reign of Aussie batter Marnus Labuschagne at the top. Labuschagne climbed to the top in December last year after knocks of 103 and 51 against England in Adelaide, but Root`s recent amazing form has helped him knock Labuschagne from the top. Root has already scored four centuries in this calendar year and became just the second Englishman to score more than 10,000 runs in Test cricket. The Englishman now has a total of 897 rating points, five points more than Labuschagne in second place.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/eng-vs-nz-root-smashes-southee-for-6-with-a-stunning-reverse-sweep-on-day-4-of-2nd-test-watch-487832">Eng vs NZ: Root smashes Southee for 6 with a stunning reverse-sweep on Day 4 of 2nd Test - WATCH</a>

Labuschagne may get the chance to regain top billing when Australia take on Sri Lanka in a two-match World Test Championship series away from home later this month, but Root has a busy period of Test cricket ahead of him too. Root is currently in the middle of a three-match Test series against New Zealand, with England also hosting India for a one-off Test and South Africa for three matches over the coming months. Australia`s Steve Smith remains in third place on the latest Test rankings, with Pakistan captain Babar Azam and New Zealand skipper Kane Williamson making up the top five.

The biggest mover in the rankings was Daryl Mitchell, with the New Zealand batter rising a whopping 33 places to sit 17th overall following scores of 190 and 69* in the second Test against England at Trent Bridge.

Indian pacer Jasprit Bumrah has risen to the third spot in the latest ICC Men`s Test Bowler Rankings. There was some reshuffling in the latest bowling rankings with towering Kiwi quick Kyle Jamieson dropping three places to sixth after he injured his back against England.

Indian pacer Jasprit Bumrah has risen to the third spot in the latest ICC Men`s Test Bowler Rankings. There was some reshuffling in the latest bowling rankings with towering Kiwi quick Kyle Jamieson dropping three places to sixth after he injured his back against England. That allowed India speedster Jasprit Bumrah (third), Pakistan pacer Shaheen Afridi (fourth) and South Africa quick Kagiso Rabada (fifth) to all rise a spot, while a pair of Jamieson's New Zealand team-mates swapped positions inside the top 10. Experienced left-armer Trent Boult jumped four places to ninth on the bowling rankings, but that saw compatriot Tim Southee demoted five spots to 13th. England batter Joe Root claimed the top spot in the latest ICC Men`s Test Batter Rankings, ending the reign of Aussie batter Marnus Labuschagne at the top. Labuschagne climbed to the top in December last year after knocks of 103 and 51 against England in Adelaide, but Root`s recent amazing form has helped him knock Labuschagne from the top. Root has already scored four centuries in this calendar year and became just the second Englishman to score more than 10,000 runs in Test cricket. The Englishman now has a total of 897 rating points, five points more than Labuschagne in second place. ALSO READ | Eng vs NZ: Root smashes Southee for 6 with a stunning reverse-sweep on Day 4 of 2nd Test - WATCH Labuschagne may get the chance to regain top billing when Australia take on Sri Lanka in a two-match World Test Championship series away from home later this month, but Root has a busy period of Test cricket ahead of him too. Root is currently in the middle of a three-match Test series against New Zealand, with England also hosting India for a one-off Test and South Africa for three matches over the coming months. Australia`s Steve Smith remains in third place on the latest Test rankings, with Pakistan captain Babar Azam and New Zealand skipper Kane Williamson making up the top five. The biggest mover in the rankings was Daryl Mitchell, with the New Zealand batter rising a whopping 33 places to sit 17th overall following scores of 190 and 69* in the second Test against England at Trent Bridge.

ICC Test Rankings: India pacer Jasprit Bumrah rises to 3rd, run-machine Joe Root becomes No. 1 batter

The ever-increasing domestic T20 leagues are squeezing bilateral ties and Test cricket runs the risk of witnessing a reduction in its volume in a decade's time, warns ICC chairman Greg Barclay. Barclay, who was appointed as ICC chair in November 2020, said the world body will face a serious challenge in deciding the next Future Tours Program starting next year.

"There is a men's and women's event every year and the growth of domestic leagues are forcing things from the bottom and ... What is getting squeezed is bilateral cricket and so we are trying to fit everything in," Barclay told BBC's Test Match Special during the ongoing first game of the three-match series between England and New Zealand at Lord's.

"There will be some unfortunate consequences from a playing experience and a revenue point of view for some of those countries who won't get the amount of cricket they might hope to have and they won't get exposure, particularly against India and to a lesser extent Australia and England. So we will see a squeeze.

"In 10-15 years time I still see Test cricket being an integral part (of the game), it may be that there is less of it," he added.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/gautam-gambhir-on-working-in-ipl-despite-being-an-mp-i-feed-5000-people-every-month-from-my-own-pocket-485062">Gambhir on working in IPL despite being an MP: I feed 5,000 people every month from my own pocket</a>

Barclay hinted that the "big three" of world cricket -- India, Australia and England -- will be largely unaffected by the adjustments in Test cricket.

"Some countries may have to make room and play less Test cricket. Some of the smaller full members will have to accept that they can't play the amount of Test cricket that they wanted to, so we may see a lessening of that - four or five a year - whereas England, Australia and India, I think, will be playing Test cricket as they are now."

The ICC chair, however, doesn't see the longer format evolving in women's cricket at a significant pace.

"To play Test cricket, you've got to have structures domestically that allow you to play long-form cricket and they don't really exist in any of the countries at the moment, so I can't really see women's Test cricket or long-form cricket evolving at any particular speed at all," he said.

"That's not to say that those countries that choose to play Test cricket - Australia and England - who provide that to the women can't do so, but I don't see it as part of the landscape moving forward to any real extent at all."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/don-bradmans-son-changed-his-name-legendary-kapil-dev-on-burden-of-expectations-on-arjun-tendulkar-485012">'Don Bradman's son changed his name': Kapil Dev on burden of expectations on Arjun Tendulkar</a>

The Kiwi feels white-ball cricket is the future due to its popularity among fans and broadcasters.

"If you look at strategically the way that cricket is going, there's no doubt that white-ball cricket, short-form cricket, is the way of the future.

"That's the game that's sought after by fans, that's where the broadcasters are putting their resource, it's what's driving the money," Barclay concluded.&nbsp;

The ever-increasing domestic T20 leagues are squeezing bilateral ties and Test cricket runs the risk of witnessing a reduction in its volume in a decade's time, warns ICC chairman Greg Barclay.

The ever-increasing domestic T20 leagues are squeezing bilateral ties and Test cricket runs the risk of witnessing a reduction in its volume in a decade's time, warns ICC chairman Greg Barclay. Barclay, who was appointed as ICC chair in November 2020, said the world body will face a serious challenge in deciding the next Future Tours Program starting next year. "There is a men's and women's event every year and the growth of domestic leagues are forcing things from the bottom and ... What is getting squeezed is bilateral cricket and so we are trying to fit everything in," Barclay told BBC's Test Match Special during the ongoing first game of the three-match series between England and New Zealand at Lord's. "There will be some unfortunate consequences from a playing experience and a revenue point of view for some of those countries who won't get the amount of cricket they might hope to have and they won't get exposure, particularly against India and to a lesser extent Australia and England. So we will see a squeeze. "In 10-15 years time I still see Test cricket being an integral part (of the game), it may be that there is less of it," he added. Also Read: Gambhir on working in IPL despite being an MP: I feed 5,000 people every month from my own pocket Barclay hinted that the "big three" of world cricket -- India, Australia and England -- will be largely unaffected by the adjustments in Test cricket. "Some countries may have to make room and play less Test cricket. Some of the smaller full members will have to accept that they can't play the amount of Test cricket that they wanted to, so we may see a lessening of that - four or five a year - whereas England, Australia and India, I think, will be playing Test cricket as they are now." The ICC chair, however, doesn't see the longer format evolving in women's cricket at a significant pace. "To play Test cricket, you've got to have structures domestically that allow you to play long-form cricket and they don't really exist in any of the countries at the moment, so I can't really see women's Test cricket or long-form cricket evolving at any particular speed at all," he said. "That's not to say that those countries that choose to play Test cricket - Australia and England - who provide that to the women can't do so, but I don't see it as part of the landscape moving forward to any real extent at all." Also Read: 'Don Bradman's son changed his name': Kapil Dev on burden of expectations on Arjun Tendulkar The Kiwi feels white-ball cricket is the future due to its popularity among fans and broadcasters. "If you look at strategically the way that cricket is going, there's no doubt that white-ball cricket, short-form cricket, is the way of the future. "That's the game that's sought after by fans, that's where the broadcasters are putting their resource, it's what's driving the money," Barclay concluded.

ICC chairman Greg Barclay warns of reduction in volume of Test cricket in future

Former India head coach Ravi Shastri feels cricket should take a cue from football when it comes to the shortest format of the game. Shastri has urged the International Cricket Council (ICC) to discontinue bilateral T20 cricket and allow the major nations to run their own T20 franchise leagues. The former all-rounder said T20 cricket should be limited to only World Cups.

While there are rarely bilateral competitions in football, major countries have their own top leagues and they only take part in the FIFA World Cup and other major tournaments at the international level. However, that is not the case in cricket, where bilateral cricket forms a major chunk of the cricketing calendar every year.

Shastri, who coached India from 2017 to 2021, believes there is too much bilateral cricket to play for all international teams and that the ICC should restrict T20s for World Cups only. Shastri said he doesn't remember a single T20 game played by India in the last 6-7 years except those which were played at the World Cups.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/thought-of-quitting-odi-cricket-after-ms-dhoni-dropped-me-reveals-former-indian-opener-virender-sehwag-484124">Thought of quitting ODI cricket after Dhoni dropped me, reveals former Indian opener Virender Sehwag</a>

"There's too much of bilateral stuff going on in T20 cricket. I've said that [before], even when I was the coach of India, I could see it happening in front of my eyes. It should go the football way, where, in T20 cricket, you just play the World Cup. Bilateral tournaments - no one remembers," Shastri told ESPNcricinfo.

"I don't remember a single game in the last six-seven years as coach of India, barring the World Cup. A team wins the World Cup, they will remember it. Unfortunately, we didn't, so I don't remember that either. Where I am coming from is: you play franchise cricket around the globe; each country is allowed to have their franchise cricket, which is their domestic cricket, and then, every two years, you come and play a World Cup," he added.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/from-hardik-pandya-to-ravindra-jadeja-how-new-captains-fared-in-ipl-2022-483927">From Hardik Pandya to Ravindra Jadeja: How new captains fared in IPL 2022?</a>

The former India all-rounder's stint as the head coach of the Indian team had come to an end after the conclusion of the T20 World Cup last year. He has returned to commentary following his coaching stint and has been actively sharing his views on the game.

Under Shastri's leadership, India became a force to reckon with across all three formats and clinched some memorable victories at home and overseas. India also bagged a historic Test series in Australia becoming the first team to beat the hosts down-under in the 2018-19 Border Gavaskar Trophy before repeating the feat once again in 2020-21.

Former India head coach Ravi Shastri feels cricket should take a cue from football when it comes to the shortest format of the game. Shastri has urged the International Cricket Council (ICC) to discontinue bilateral T20 cricket and allow the major nations to run their own T20 franchise leagues.

Former India head coach Ravi Shastri feels cricket should take a cue from football when it comes to the shortest format of the game. Shastri has urged the International Cricket Council (ICC) to discontinue bilateral T20 cricket and allow the major nations to run their own T20 franchise leagues. The former all-rounder said T20 cricket should be limited to only World Cups. While there are rarely bilateral competitions in football, major countries have their own top leagues and they only take part in the FIFA World Cup and other major tournaments at the international level. However, that is not the case in cricket, where bilateral cricket forms a major chunk of the cricketing calendar every year. Shastri, who coached India from 2017 to 2021, believes there is too much bilateral cricket to play for all international teams and that the ICC should restrict T20s for World Cups only. Shastri said he doesn't remember a single T20 game played by India in the last 6-7 years except those which were played at the World Cups. Also Read: Thought of quitting ODI cricket after Dhoni dropped me, reveals former Indian opener Virender Sehwag "There's too much of bilateral stuff going on in T20 cricket. I've said that [before], even when I was the coach of India, I could see it happening in front of my eyes. It should go the football way, where, in T20 cricket, you just play the World Cup. Bilateral tournaments - no one remembers," Shastri told ESPNcricinfo. "I don't remember a single game in the last six-seven years as coach of India, barring the World Cup. A team wins the World Cup, they will remember it. Unfortunately, we didn't, so I don't remember that either. Where I am coming from is: you play franchise cricket around the globe; each country is allowed to have their franchise cricket, which is their domestic cricket, and then, every two years, you come and play a World Cup," he added. Also Read: From Hardik Pandya to Ravindra Jadeja: How new captains fared in IPL 2022? The former India all-rounder's stint as the head coach of the Indian team had come to an end after the conclusion of the T20 World Cup last year. He has returned to commentary following his coaching stint and has been actively sharing his views on the game. Under Shastri's leadership, India became a force to reckon with across all three formats and clinched some memorable victories at home and overseas. India also bagged a historic Test series in Australia becoming the first team to beat the hosts down-under in the 2018-19 Border Gavaskar Trophy before repeating the feat once again in 2020-21.

No bilateral T20 cricket? Former India head coach Ravi Shastri urges ICC to go the football way

Human Rights Lawyer Amal Clooney urged countries at the UN to focus on international justice for war crimes in Ukraine. While ICC has opened an investigation into war crimes, Russia calls ICC investigation a 'political instrument'.

Ukraine war: Human Rights Lawyer Amal Clooney pushes for justice in Ukraine

The ICC on Friday appointed Wasim Khan, the former chief executive of Pakistan Cricket Board, as its General Manager - Cricket to succeed Geoff Allardice.

Khan, who will take up his post next month, was also previously the Chief Executive of Leicestershire County Cricket Club and Chance to Shine. He last held the post of PCB CEO.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2022-dc-head-coach-ricky-ponting-in-isolation-after-his-family-member-tests-covid-positive-472965" hreflang="en">Ricky Ponting in isolation after his family member tests Covid positive</a>

He will take over from Allardice who spent eight years in the role before being appointed as the ICC CEO.

"I am honoured to be joining the ICC, I can't wait to get started and work in partnership with our Members to strengthen and grow our sport," Khan said in an ICC statement.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2022-ms-dhoni-outsmarts-kieron-pollard-with-brilliant-field-placement-during-mi-vs-csk-clash-watch-472902" hreflang="en">Dhoni outsmarts Pollard with genius field placement during MI vs CSK - WATCH</a>

"I'm particularly excited by the ICC's commitment to the growth of the women's game, and I look forward to playing my part in really accelerating that growth over the next decade."

Welcoming Khan to his new position, his predecessor Allardice said: "He (Khan) brings an in-depth knowledge of our sport and its stakeholders and his firsthand experience of the international cricket landscape will be of enormous benefit as we implement the ICC global growth strategy and move forward into a new events cycle.

The ICC on Friday appointed Wasim Khan, the former chief executive of Pakistan Cricket Board, as its General Manager - Cricket to succeed Geoff Allardice. Khan, who will take up his post next month, was also previously the Chief Executive of Leicestershire County Cricket Club and Chance to Shine.

The ICC on Friday appointed Wasim Khan, the former chief executive of Pakistan Cricket Board, as its General Manager - Cricket to succeed Geoff Allardice. Khan, who will take up his post next month, was also previously the Chief Executive of Leicestershire County Cricket Club and Chance to Shine. He last held the post of PCB CEO. Also read | Ricky Ponting in isolation after his family member tests Covid positive He will take over from Allardice who spent eight years in the role before being appointed as the ICC CEO. "I am honoured to be joining the ICC, I can't wait to get started and work in partnership with our Members to strengthen and grow our sport," Khan said in an ICC statement. Also read | Dhoni outsmarts Pollard with genius field placement during MI vs CSK - WATCH "I'm particularly excited by the ICC's commitment to the growth of the women's game, and I look forward to playing my part in really accelerating that growth over the next decade." Welcoming Khan to his new position, his predecessor Allardice said: "He (Khan) brings an in-depth knowledge of our sport and its stakeholders and his firsthand experience of the international cricket landscape will be of enormous benefit as we implement the ICC global growth strategy and move forward into a new events cycle.

ICC appoints Pakistan's Wasim Khan as its General Manager-Cricket

The International Cricket Council (ICC) CEO Geoff Allardice is aiming for cricket to be included in the Olympic Games curriculum, as it will result in the governments of respective countries to pay more attention to the game's facilities and also provide high-performance assistance for the growth of the sport in their countries. 
 
Allardice added that, as far as the ICC is concerned, it's "not a money-making exercise" for the global cricket governing body, but the move was to make respective governments stakeholders in the growth of the sport in their countries.

Women's Twenty20 cricket has been included at the 2022 Commonwealth Games at Birmingham following on from the men's competition at the Kuala Lumpur CWG in 1998.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ms-dhoni-celebrates-anniversary-of-icc-world-cup-2011-win-with-csk-teammates-467785">MS Dhoni celebrates anniversary of ICC World Cup 2011 win with CSK teammates</a> 
 
"In many of our members, being seen as an Olympic sport and having an association with the government and the national Olympic movement is something that is going to be really beneficial in terms of facilities and high-performance assistance," Allardice told SEN's This Is Your Journey on Sunday. 
 
"It's certainly not a money-making exercise from our point of view, it's about getting exposure for cricket in markets where we may not be popular. 
 
"And the other one is about giving all of our 106 members the opportunity to engage more closely with their governments. In some countries, being an Olympic sport gets you closer to your government than not being an Olympic sport."

The International Cricket Council (ICC) CEO Geoff Allardice is aiming for cricket to be included in the Olympic Games curriculum, as it will result in the governments of respective countries to pay more attention to the game's facilities and also provide high-performance assistance for the growth of the sport in their countries.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) CEO Geoff Allardice is aiming for cricket to be included in the Olympic Games curriculum, as it will result in the governments of respective countries to pay more attention to the game's facilities and also provide high-performance assistance for the growth of the sport in their countries. Allardice added that, as far as the ICC is concerned, it's "not a money-making exercise" for the global cricket governing body, but the move was to make respective governments stakeholders in the growth of the sport in their countries. Women's Twenty20 cricket has been included at the 2022 Commonwealth Games at Birmingham following on from the men's competition at the Kuala Lumpur CWG in 1998. ALSO READ: MS Dhoni celebrates anniversary of ICC World Cup 2011 win with CSK teammates "In many of our members, being seen as an Olympic sport and having an association with the government and the national Olympic movement is something that is going to be really beneficial in terms of facilities and high-performance assistance," Allardice told SEN's This Is Your Journey on Sunday. "It's certainly not a money-making exercise from our point of view, it's about getting exposure for cricket in markets where we may not be popular. "And the other one is about giving all of our 106 members the opportunity to engage more closely with their governments. In some countries, being an Olympic sport gets you closer to your government than not being an Olympic sport."

'It's about getting exposure': ICC CEO Geoff Allardice aims for inclusion of cricket in Olympic Games

The International Cricket Council's (ICC) chief executive officer Geoff Allardice has said that the world body of the sport is planning to bring in parity in prize money for men's and women's tournaments from 2024 to 2031. 
 
"One of the things that we did at the start of the cycle was we projected through this event cycle -- most of the ICC's finances are done with an eight-year view -- and what we've been trying to do over this cycle is bridge the gap between the women's prize money and the men's prize money," Allardice was quoted as saying by ESPNcricinfo.com. 
 
The ICC's chief executive made the statement when asked about the difference in the prize money of men's and women's World Cups.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-announces-release-of-invitation-to-tender-for-media-rights-to-indian-premier-league-seasons-2023-2027-466702">BCCI invites bids for media rights of Indian Premier League seasons 2023-2027</a> 
 
"We are about to start discussions around the next cycle and one of the starting points for that discussion is going to be trying to get parity for the finishing positions of teams in women's events and comparable men's events. So we're not there yet, but we're on the journey to getting towards prize money parity," he said. 
 
Allardice hailed the standard of play and blueprinted the future of women's cricket through global events in a press conference at the Basin Reserve in Wellington ahead of the World Cup semi-finals.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/womens-odi-rankings-laura-wolvaardt-become-no1-batter-after-world-cup-heroics-mithali-raj-rises-to-6th-466680">Women's ODI Rankings: Laura Wolvaardt become No.1 batter after World Cup heroics, Mithali Raj rises to 6th</a> 
 
"The competitiveness of cricket has been a joy to watch and the strides the teams have taken forward over the last five years or so, in the standard of play and the excitement of the tournament, I think is something that needs to be commented upon. The number of close finishes, as cricket fans you sit there glued to your seat," he said. 
 
"To get down to the last ball of the group stage before the semi-finalists were confirmed, I think it is a great endorsement of the standard of play," Allardice said.

The International Cricket Council's (ICC) chief executive officer Geoff Allardice has said that the world body of the sport is planning to bring in parity in prize money for men's and women's tournaments from 2024 to 2031.

The International Cricket Council's (ICC) chief executive officer Geoff Allardice has said that the world body of the sport is planning to bring in parity in prize money for men's and women's tournaments from 2024 to 2031. "One of the things that we did at the start of the cycle was we projected through this event cycle -- most of the ICC's finances are done with an eight-year view -- and what we've been trying to do over this cycle is bridge the gap between the women's prize money and the men's prize money," Allardice was quoted as saying by ESPNcricinfo.com. The ICC's chief executive made the statement when asked about the difference in the prize money of men's and women's World Cups. ALSO READ: BCCI invites bids for media rights of Indian Premier League seasons 2023-2027 "We are about to start discussions around the next cycle and one of the starting points for that discussion is going to be trying to get parity for the finishing positions of teams in women's events and comparable men's events. So we're not there yet, but we're on the journey to getting towards prize money parity," he said. Allardice hailed the standard of play and blueprinted the future of women's cricket through global events in a press conference at the Basin Reserve in Wellington ahead of the World Cup semi-finals. ALSO READ: Women's ODI Rankings: Laura Wolvaardt become No.1 batter after World Cup heroics, Mithali Raj rises to 6th "The competitiveness of cricket has been a joy to watch and the strides the teams have taken forward over the last five years or so, in the standard of play and the excitement of the tournament, I think is something that needs to be commented upon. The number of close finishes, as cricket fans you sit there glued to your seat," he said. "To get down to the last ball of the group stage before the semi-finalists were confirmed, I think it is a great endorsement of the standard of play," Allardice said.

ICC planning to bring parity in prize money for men's and women's events, says CEO Geoff Allardice

South African test cricketer Zubayr Hamza has been provisionally suspended by the International Cricket Council (ICC) under its anti-doping code after testing positive for a prohibited substance, the cricket governing body said on Friday.

Cricket South Africa said earlier this week that Hamza, who was left out of the squad for the series against Bangladesh, did not dispute the positive test and agreed to a voluntary suspension.

"Hamza has been charged with the presence and/or use of a prohibited substance following the detection of Furosemide in a sample collected out-of-competition on 17 January 2022," the ICC said.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nathan-lyon-spins-australia-to-historic-test-series-win-over-pakistan-in-lahore-465460">Nathan Lyon spins Australia to historic Test series win over Pakistan in Lahore</a>

Furosemide, a medicine used to treat high blood pressure, heart failure and a build-up of fluid in the body, is on the World Anti-Doping Agency's Prohibited List as a diuretic or masking agent.

Cricket South Africa said Furosemide is not a performance-enhancing substance.

The 26-year-old batter, who has played six tests for South Africa, is suspended pending the outcome of the disciplinary process.

South Africa host Bangladesh in a two-test series starting March 31.

South African test cricketer Zubayr Hamza has been provisionally suspended by the International Cricket Council (ICC) under its anti-doping code after testing positive for a prohibited substance, the cricket governing body said on Friday.

South African test cricketer Zubayr Hamza has been provisionally suspended by the International Cricket Council (ICC) under its anti-doping code after testing positive for a prohibited substance, the cricket governing body said on Friday. Cricket South Africa said earlier this week that Hamza, who was left out of the squad for the series against Bangladesh, did not dispute the positive test and agreed to a voluntary suspension. "Hamza has been charged with the presence and/or use of a prohibited substance following the detection of Furosemide in a sample collected out-of-competition on 17 January 2022," the ICC said. ALSO READ: Nathan Lyon spins Australia to historic Test series win over Pakistan in Lahore Furosemide, a medicine used to treat high blood pressure, heart failure and a build-up of fluid in the body, is on the World Anti-Doping Agency's Prohibited List as a diuretic or masking agent. Cricket South Africa said Furosemide is not a performance-enhancing substance. The 26-year-old batter, who has played six tests for South Africa, is suspended pending the outcome of the disciplinary process. South Africa host Bangladesh in a two-test series starting March 31.

ICC suspend South African batter Zubayr Hamza for failing dope test

Javagal Srinath of the ICC Elite Panel of Match Referees has rated the pitch at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru that was used for the second Test between India and Sri Lanka as "below average" and the venue has received one demerit point under the ICC Pitch and Outfield Monitoring Process.

Srinath's report has been forwarded to the Board of Control for Cricket in India.

India claimed an emphatic 238-run victory against Sri Lanka as they bowled out the visitors for 208 in the second innings of the second Test at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium.

Rohit Sharma-led team wrapped up the Test match inside three days as hosts swept the two-match series 2-0.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2022-moeen-alis-availability-for-csks-opener-against-kkr-in-doubt-as-vissa-issue-delays-his-arrival-464016">IPL 2022: Moeen Ali's availability for CSK's opener against KKR in doubt as visa issue delays his arrival</a>

Srinath said: "The pitch offered a lot of turn on the first day itself and though it improved with every session, in my view, it was not an even contest between bat and ball."

Demerit points remain active for a rolling five-year period.

And when a venue accumulates five demerit points (or crosses that threshold), it will be suspended from hosting any international cricket for a period of 12 months, while a venue will be suspended from staging any international cricket for 24 months when it reaches the threshold of 10 demerit points.

Javagal Srinath of the ICC Elite Panel of Match Referees has rated the pitch at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru that was used for the second Test between India and Sri Lanka as "below average" and the venue has received one demerit point under the ICC Pitch and Outfield Monitoring Process.

Javagal Srinath of the ICC Elite Panel of Match Referees has rated the pitch at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru that was used for the second Test between India and Sri Lanka as "below average" and the venue has received one demerit point under the ICC Pitch and Outfield Monitoring Process. Srinath's report has been forwarded to the Board of Control for Cricket in India. India claimed an emphatic 238-run victory against Sri Lanka as they bowled out the visitors for 208 in the second innings of the second Test at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium. Rohit Sharma-led team wrapped up the Test match inside three days as hosts swept the two-match series 2-0. ALSO READ: IPL 2022: Moeen Ali's availability for CSK's opener against KKR in doubt as visa issue delays his arrival Srinath said: "The pitch offered a lot of turn on the first day itself and though it improved with every session, in my view, it was not an even contest between bat and ball." Demerit points remain active for a rolling five-year period. And when a venue accumulates five demerit points (or crosses that threshold), it will be suspended from hosting any international cricket for a period of 12 months, while a venue will be suspended from staging any international cricket for 24 months when it reaches the threshold of 10 demerit points.

ICC rates Bengaluru pitch as 'below average' after India beat Sri Lanka within 3 days in 2nd Test

Smriti Mandhana and Harmanpreet Kaur slammed twin centuries as India produced a splendid batting display to notch up a comprehensive 155-run win over West Indies and bring their campaign back on track at the ICC Women's ODI World Cup here on Saturday.

While Mandhana smashed her fifth ODI hundred, a sensational 123 off 119 balls studded with 13 fours and two sixes, Kaur had 10 hits to the fence and two maximums in her 107-ball 109, which was her fourth ton and the first since hitting 171 not out against Australia in the 2017 World Cup.

The duo forged a 184-run stand for the fourth wicket, India's highest partnership for any wicket at the women's World Cup, to help the team post its highest total in the history of the showpiece event, a challenging 317 for eight after skipper Mithali Raj won the toss and elected to bat.

The 2017 edition finalists then returned to dismiss West Indies for 162 in 40.3 overs to keep themselves in contention for the knockout stage.

By virtue of this win, India now lead the eight-team standings with four points from three games, ahead of Australia, New Zealand and South Africa because of a better net run rate.

Chasing the stiff total, West Indies were off to a flier with openers Deandra Dottin (62) and Hayley Matthews (43) putting up 100 runs in 12.1 overs but the spin-pace duo of Sneh Rana (3/22) and Meghna Singh (2/27) put the breaks by rocking the top-order, as the Caribbeans slumped to 114 for four in 19th over.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indias-jhulan-goswami-creates-history-becomes-highest-wicket-taker-in-womens-world-cup-history-461535">India's Jhulan Goswami creates history, becomes highest wicket-taker in Women's World Cup</a>

Pooja Vastrakar (1/21) and Rajeshwari Gayakwad (1/24) then got into the act, removing Shemaine Campbelle (11) and Chinelle Henry (7) as the Windies slumped to 134 for six.

Gayakwad and Rana then combined to run-out Aaliyah Alleyne (4), while Jhulan Goswami (1/43) returned to get rid of Anisa Mohammed (2) and become the all-time highest wicket-taker in the women's World Cup with 40 wickets in her kitty.

Earlier, opener Yastika Bhatia scored a quick 31 off 21 balls, laced with six boundaries, to give the team a good start along with Mandhana.

Bhatia and Mandhana put on 49 runs for the opening stand in 6.3 overs but once she departed, Mithali Raj (5) and Deepti Sharma (15) also followed suit, leaving India tottering at 78 for three.

While Bhatia was caught and bowled by S Selman, Mithali was caught by Shamilia Connell at mid-wicket off Matthews in the 10th over.

India scored 62 for two in the powerplay with Deepti Sharma (15) making a promising start but Matthews took a one-handed stunner at first slip to get rid of the all-rounder.

Mandhana and Kaur then joined hands and steadied the innings as India amassed 100 runs in 20 overs. The duo picked the ones and twos and also got the boundaries regularly to keep the scoreboard ticking. Mandhana scored her first fifty off 66 balls with five fours in the 27th over, while the second fifty came in 43 balls.

The left-handed opener picked up her first maximum in the 33rd over when she produced a straight down the ground six off Selman. She smashed another six in the 37th over long-on off Aaliyah Alleyne.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/haramanpreet-kaur-pips-smriti-mithali-to-achieve-elusive-milestone-with-stunning-ton-against-west-indies-461487">Haramanpreet pips Smriti, Mithali to achieve elusive milestone with stunning ton against West Indies</a>

With the two batter scoring at a good pace, 200 was up in the 36th over. Mandhana reached her 90s with a boundary and got a life when she was dropped by Alleyne on 96. She also survived an LBW appeal before reaching her century with another four off Matthews.

With Kaur also going great guns, India crossed the 250-mark in no time. Mandhana was dismissed in the 43rd over when she found Selman at deep mid-wicket but Kaur took the onus on herself and steered the team across the 300-mark even as India kept losing wickets in pursuit of quick runs.

Kaur, who also got a reprieve on 20, reached her three-figures with a single in the 47th over before edging an Alleyne delivery to keeper Campbell.&nbsp;

Smriti Mandhana and Harmanpreet Kaur slammed twin centuries as India produced a splendid batting display to notch up a comprehensive 155-run win over West Indies and bring their campaign back on track at the ICC Women's ODI World Cup here on Saturday.

Smriti Mandhana and Harmanpreet Kaur slammed twin centuries as India produced a splendid batting display to notch up a comprehensive 155-run win over West Indies and bring their campaign back on track at the ICC Women's ODI World Cup here on Saturday. While Mandhana smashed her fifth ODI hundred, a sensational 123 off 119 balls studded with 13 fours and two sixes, Kaur had 10 hits to the fence and two maximums in her 107-ball 109, which was her fourth ton and the first since hitting 171 not out against Australia in the 2017 World Cup. The duo forged a 184-run stand for the fourth wicket, India's highest partnership for any wicket at the women's World Cup, to help the team post its highest total in the history of the showpiece event, a challenging 317 for eight after skipper Mithali Raj won the toss and elected to bat. The 2017 edition finalists then returned to dismiss West Indies for 162 in 40.3 overs to keep themselves in contention for the knockout stage. By virtue of this win, India now lead the eight-team standings with four points from three games, ahead of Australia, New Zealand and South Africa because of a better net run rate. Chasing the stiff total, West Indies were off to a flier with openers Deandra Dottin (62) and Hayley Matthews (43) putting up 100 runs in 12.1 overs but the spin-pace duo of Sneh Rana (3/22) and Meghna Singh (2/27) put the breaks by rocking the top-order, as the Caribbeans slumped to 114 for four in 19th over. Also Read: India's Jhulan Goswami creates history, becomes highest wicket-taker in Women's World Cup Pooja Vastrakar (1/21) and Rajeshwari Gayakwad (1/24) then got into the act, removing Shemaine Campbelle (11) and Chinelle Henry (7) as the Windies slumped to 134 for six. Gayakwad and Rana then combined to run-out Aaliyah Alleyne (4), while Jhulan Goswami (1/43) returned to get rid of Anisa Mohammed (2) and become the all-time highest wicket-taker in the women's World Cup with 40 wickets in her kitty. Earlier, opener Yastika Bhatia scored a quick 31 off 21 balls, laced with six boundaries, to give the team a good start along with Mandhana. Bhatia and Mandhana put on 49 runs for the opening stand in 6.3 overs but once she departed, Mithali Raj (5) and Deepti Sharma (15) also followed suit, leaving India tottering at 78 for three. While Bhatia was caught and bowled by S Selman, Mithali was caught by Shamilia Connell at mid-wicket off Matthews in the 10th over. India scored 62 for two in the powerplay with Deepti Sharma (15) making a promising start but Matthews took a one-handed stunner at first slip to get rid of the all-rounder. Mandhana and Kaur then joined hands and steadied the innings as India amassed 100 runs in 20 overs. The duo picked the ones and twos and also got the boundaries regularly to keep the scoreboard ticking. Mandhana scored her first fifty off 66 balls with five fours in the 27th over, while the second fifty came in 43 balls. The left-handed opener picked up her first maximum in the 33rd over when she produced a straight down the ground six off Selman. She smashed another six in the 37th over long-on off Aaliyah Alleyne. Also Read: Haramanpreet pips Smriti, Mithali to achieve elusive milestone with stunning ton against West Indies With the two batter scoring at a good pace, 200 was up in the 36th over. Mandhana reached her 90s with a boundary and got a life when she was dropped by Alleyne on 96. She also survived an LBW appeal before reaching her century with another four off Matthews. With Kaur also going great guns, India crossed the 250-mark in no time. Mandhana was dismissed in the 43rd over when she found Selman at deep mid-wicket but Kaur took the onus on herself and steered the team across the 300-mark even as India kept losing wickets in pursuit of quick runs. Kaur, who also got a reprieve on 20, reached her three-figures with a single in the 47th over before edging an Alleyne delivery to keeper Campbell.

Women's World Cup 2022: Mandhana, Kaur hit tons as India register massive 155-run win over West Indies

International Cricket Council (ICC) on Thursday rated the pitch at the Pindi Cricket Stadium in Rawalpindi that was used for the first Test between Pakistan and Australia as "below average". Due to this rating, the venue has received one demerit point under the ICC Pitch and Outfield Monitoring Process."The character of the pitch hardly changed over the course of five days and that there has been no deterioration apart from the bounce getting slightly lower. The pitch did not have a great deal of pace and bounce in it for the seamers nor assisted the spinners as the match progressed," Ranjan Madugalle of the Emirates ICC Elite Panel of Match Referees stated in an official statement.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-has-lied-betrayed-fans-kaneria-slams-pcb-chairman-ramiz-raja-after-his-remarks-on-rawalpindi-pitch-460984">He has lied, betrayed fans: Kaneria slams PCB chairman Ramiz Raja after his remarks on Rawalpindi pitch</a>

"In my view, this does not represent an even contest between bat and ball. Therefore, in keeping with the ICC guidelines, I rate this pitch as below average," he added. The first Test between Pakistan and Australia ended in a draw on Tuesday. Pakistan openers Imam-ul-Haq and Abdullah Shafique scored unbeaten centuries as Pakistan scored 252 without losing any wicket on the fifth and final day. Both the teams will be squaring off for the second Test of the three-match series on Saturday at National Stadium, Karachi.

International Cricket Council (ICC) on Thursday rated the pitch at the Pindi Cricket Stadium in Rawalpindi that was used for the first Test between Pakistan and Australia as "below average".

International Cricket Council (ICC) on Thursday rated the pitch at the Pindi Cricket Stadium in Rawalpindi that was used for the first Test between Pakistan and Australia as "below average". Due to this rating, the venue has received one demerit point under the ICC Pitch and Outfield Monitoring Process."The character of the pitch hardly changed over the course of five days and that there has been no deterioration apart from the bounce getting slightly lower. The pitch did not have a great deal of pace and bounce in it for the seamers nor assisted the spinners as the match progressed," Ranjan Madugalle of the Emirates ICC Elite Panel of Match Referees stated in an official statement. ALSO READ | He has lied, betrayed fans: Kaneria slams PCB chairman Ramiz Raja after his remarks on Rawalpindi pitch "In my view, this does not represent an even contest between bat and ball. Therefore, in keeping with the ICC guidelines, I rate this pitch as below average," he added. The first Test between Pakistan and Australia ended in a draw on Tuesday. Pakistan openers Imam-ul-Haq and Abdullah Shafique scored unbeaten centuries as Pakistan scored 252 without losing any wicket on the fifth and final day. Both the teams will be squaring off for the second Test of the three-match series on Saturday at National Stadium, Karachi.

Pak vs Aus: Amid criticism, ICC rates Rawalpindi pitch as 'below average', venue receives one demerit point

The first five games of ICC Women's Cricket World Cup 2022 have caused a lot of movement in the latest update of the ICC Women's ODI Player Rankings.

Australia skipper Meg Lanning climbed up two spots in the latest women's rankings for ODI batters.

She is now just one and 15 rating points away from the top spot that's currently occupied by her teammate Alyssa Healy.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wiveng-when-and-where-to-watch-west-indies-vs-england-1st-test-match-ist-time-and-streaming-details-460188">WIvENG: When and where to watch West Indies vs England 1st Test match - IST time and streaming details</a>

Lanning was in sublime form in the first game of the ICC Women's Cricket World Cup against England, smashing 86 in 110 balls seven fours and a six, which helped Australia post a massive total of 310.

They eventually won the game in the last over by 12 runs.

The Player of the Match from the game, Rachael Haynes, who slammed a brilliant 130 of 131, climbed six spots and broke into the top 10 to occupy the No.7 spot in the rankings.

The other centurion from the game - England's Nat Sciver rose five spots to No.6.On the other hand, Mithali Raj has dropped to the fourth spot.

Hayley Matthews of West Indies made considerable gains across the board in the rankings for batters, bowlers as well as all-rounders.

She was the Player of the Match in West Indies'&nbsp;three-run heist against New Zealand - she scored a brilliant 119 to set a target of 260 for the White Ferns and then accounted for the wickets of the in-form Amelia Kerr and Brooke Halliday.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sunil-gavaskar-regrets-making-controversial-remarks-on-shane-warne-says-it-wasnt-right-time-460045">Sunil Gavaskar regrets making controversial remarks on Shane Warne, says 'it wasn't right time'</a>

Matthews broke into the top 5 in the all-rounders'&nbsp;list, climbing six spots to No.4 and rose a massive 12 spots to No.20 for batters and three spots No.10 for bowlers.

Among the other players that moved up the rankings were South Africa's Ayabonga Khaka, whose four-for against Bangladesh in the opening game helped her rise a spot to No.6.

In addition, the Indian pair of Sneh Rana and Pooja Vastrakar - who added 122 for India's seventh wicket to lift them from 114-6 against Pakistan both moved up to their career-best positions with the bat.

The first five games of ICC Women's Cricket World Cup 2022 have caused a lot of movement in the latest update of the ICC Women's ODI Player Rankings. Australia skipper Meg Lanning climbed up two spots in the latest women's rankings for ODI batters.

The first five games of ICC Women's Cricket World Cup 2022 have caused a lot of movement in the latest update of the ICC Women's ODI Player Rankings. Australia skipper Meg Lanning climbed up two spots in the latest women's rankings for ODI batters. She is now just one and 15 rating points away from the top spot that's currently occupied by her teammate Alyssa Healy. ALSO READ: WIvENG: When and where to watch West Indies vs England 1st Test match - IST time and streaming details Lanning was in sublime form in the first game of the ICC Women's Cricket World Cup against England, smashing 86 in 110 balls seven fours and a six, which helped Australia post a massive total of 310. They eventually won the game in the last over by 12 runs. The Player of the Match from the game, Rachael Haynes, who slammed a brilliant 130 of 131, climbed six spots and broke into the top 10 to occupy the No.7 spot in the rankings. The other centurion from the game - England's Nat Sciver rose five spots to No.6.On the other hand, Mithali Raj has dropped to the fourth spot. Hayley Matthews of West Indies made considerable gains across the board in the rankings for batters, bowlers as well as all-rounders. She was the Player of the Match in West Indies' three-run heist against New Zealand - she scored a brilliant 119 to set a target of 260 for the White Ferns and then accounted for the wickets of the in-form Amelia Kerr and Brooke Halliday. ALSO READ: Sunil Gavaskar regrets making controversial remarks on Shane Warne, says 'it wasn't right time' Matthews broke into the top 5 in the all-rounders' list, climbing six spots to No.4 and rose a massive 12 spots to No.20 for batters and three spots No.10 for bowlers. Among the other players that moved up the rankings were South Africa's Ayabonga Khaka, whose four-for against Bangladesh in the opening game helped her rise a spot to No.6. In addition, the Indian pair of Sneh Rana and Pooja Vastrakar - who added 122 for India's seventh wicket to lift them from 114-6 against Pakistan both moved up to their career-best positions with the bat.

Women's ODI Rankings: Mithali Raj slips to fourth, Meg Lanning rises to second spot

Icc, News on Icc, stories on Icc, articles on Icc, Icc stories at Wion, Icc news, Icc latest news