As we head towards the business end of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021, the countdown for ICC T20 World Cup 2021 has also begun. The T20 World Cup was originally scheduled to be played in India last year but had to be postponed due to the Coronavirus pandemic. The seventh edition of the showpiece event is all set to get underway from October 17 in UAE and Oman.

The T20 World Cup will mark its return after a gap of five years as the last edition of the tournament was played in 2016 with West Indies clinching the elusive title. The International Cricket Council (ICC) has made some fresh changes in the playing conditions for the semi-final and the final of the T20 World Cup this year. The international body has introduced&nbsp;new&nbsp;Duckworth–Lewis–Stern&nbsp;(DLS)&nbsp;rules&nbsp;for the upcoming edition.

ICC released the playing conditions for T20 World Cup earlier this week and as per a report in ESPN Cricinfo, the international body has decided to increase the minimum number of overs for DLS usage in the semi-final and final of the T20 World Cup 2021.

As per the existing rules related to the DLS method, in case of a delay or a rain-affected game, each team needs to bat for a minimum of five overs for the result to be decided in a T20I game. However, in the semi-final and the final of the T20 World Cup 2021, each team will have to bat for a minimum of ten overs for the result to be calculated via the DLS method.

The change has been brought into effect, in line with the norm at the Women's T20 World Cup in Australia last year where England were eliminated after their semi-final against India was washed out due to rain and there was no reserve day.

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Apart from the change in the DLS rules, ICC is also set to introduce Decision Review System (DRS) for the first time in the men's T20 World Cup. The Decision Review System was not in existence when the last edition of the T20 World Cup was played in 2016 which is the reason behind the delay in the introduction of the technology in the showpiece events.

Each team will be awarded two reviews per innings, as per the existing rules of the ICC. The T20 World Cup 2021 will get underway from October 17, just a couple of days after the conclusion of IPL 2021 in the UAE. ICC on Sunday (October 10) also announced USD 1.6 million prize money for the winner of the tournament.

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As we head towards the business end of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021, the countdown for ICC T20 World Cup 2021 has also begun. The T20 World Cup was originally scheduled to be played in India last year but had to be postponed due to the Coronavirus pandemic.

As we head towards the business end of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021, the countdown for ICC T20 World Cup 2021 has also begun. The T20 World Cup was originally scheduled to be played in India last year but had to be postponed due to the Coronavirus pandemic. The seventh edition of the showpiece event is all set to get underway from October 17 in UAE and Oman. The T20 World Cup will mark its return after a gap of five years as the last edition of the tournament was played in 2016 with West Indies clinching the elusive title. The International Cricket Council (ICC) has made some fresh changes in the playing conditions for the semi-final and the final of the T20 World Cup this year. The international body has introduced new Duckworth–Lewis–Stern (DLS) rules for the upcoming edition. ICC released the playing conditions for T20 World Cup earlier this week and as per a report in ESPN Cricinfo, the international body has decided to increase the minimum number of overs for DLS usage in the semi-final and final of the T20 World Cup 2021. As per the existing rules related to the DLS method, in case of a delay or a rain-affected game, each team needs to bat for a minimum of five overs for the result to be decided in a T20I game. However, in the semi-final and the final of the T20 World Cup 2021, each team will have to bat for a minimum of ten overs for the result to be calculated via the DLS method. The change has been brought into effect, in line with the norm at the Women's T20 World Cup in Australia last year where England were eliminated after their semi-final against India was washed out due to rain and there was no reserve day. Also Read: ICC announce USD 1.6 million prize money for winner of T20 World Cup 2021 Apart from the change in the DLS rules, ICC is also set to introduce Decision Review System (DRS) for the first time in the men's T20 World Cup. The Decision Review System was not in existence when the last edition of the T20 World Cup was played in 2016 which is the reason behind the delay in the introduction of the technology in the showpiece events. Each team will be awarded two reviews per innings, as per the existing rules of the ICC. The T20 World Cup 2021 will get underway from October 17, just a couple of days after the conclusion of IPL 2021 in the UAE. ICC on Sunday (October 10) also announced USD 1.6 million prize money for the winner of the tournament.

Fresh DLS rules: ICC makes changes in playing conditions for T20 World Cup 2021 semi-final & final

The governing International Cricket Council (ICC) has taken a wait-and-watch approach on Afghanistan but will discuss the game's fate in the country in a board meeting next month, ICC acting chief executive Geoff Allardice said on Sunday.

Afghanistan risk isolation since the country's Taliban takeover in August, with Cricket Australia threatening not to host them for a one-off test in Hobart next month if the new government in Kabul did not allow women to play the sport.

The Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) has said it is committed to women's cricket but was awaiting instructions from the government on its future.

"Our primary function is to support the development of cricket in that country through the member board," Allardice told a virtual news conference ahead of the Twenty20 World Cup which begins on Oct. 17.

"We have said all along that we are waiting to see how things unfold under the different regime in that country."

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"The ICC board will consider it when they next meet which is looking like at the end of the T20 World Cup."

Afghanistan are currently training in Qatar and will begin their Twenty20 World campaign against a qualifier in Sharjah on Oct. 25.

When the Taliban last ruled Afghanistan two decades ago, girls were not allowed to attend school and women were banned from work and education.

Australia test captain Tim Paine said teams might refuse to play Afghanistan at the T20 World Cup, but Allardice said there was no doubt over their participation in the showpiece event.

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"They are full member of the ICC and the team is preparing for the event at the moment and will be playing in Group B," he said.

"As far as their participation in the event, it`s proceeding as normal."

The ICC official also confirmed that the 20-overs World Cup, last staged in 2016, will embrace the Decision Review System (DRS) with each team having a maximum of two reviews per innings.

The governing International Cricket Council (ICC) has taken a wait-and-watch approach on Afghanistan but will discuss the game's fate in the country in a board meeting next month, ICC acting chief executive Geoff Allardice said on Sunday.

The governing International Cricket Council (ICC) has taken a wait-and-watch approach on Afghanistan but will discuss the game's fate in the country in a board meeting next month, ICC acting chief executive Geoff Allardice said on Sunday. Afghanistan risk isolation since the country's Taliban takeover in August, with Cricket Australia threatening not to host them for a one-off test in Hobart next month if the new government in Kabul did not allow women to play the sport. The Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) has said it is committed to women's cricket but was awaiting instructions from the government on its future. "Our primary function is to support the development of cricket in that country through the member board," Allardice told a virtual news conference ahead of the Twenty20 World Cup which begins on Oct. 17. "We have said all along that we are waiting to see how things unfold under the different regime in that country." Also Read: No Hardik Pandya! Virender Sehwag names 3 players Mumbai Indians should retain ahead of IPL mega auction "The ICC board will consider it when they next meet which is looking like at the end of the T20 World Cup." Afghanistan are currently training in Qatar and will begin their Twenty20 World campaign against a qualifier in Sharjah on Oct. 25. When the Taliban last ruled Afghanistan two decades ago, girls were not allowed to attend school and women were banned from work and education. Australia test captain Tim Paine said teams might refuse to play Afghanistan at the T20 World Cup, but Allardice said there was no doubt over their participation in the showpiece event. Also Read: Tom Moody's desire to become India's next head coach reason behind Warner's fall from grace at SRH? "They are full member of the ICC and the team is preparing for the event at the moment and will be playing in Group B," he said. "As far as their participation in the event, it`s proceeding as normal." The ICC official also confirmed that the 20-overs World Cup, last staged in 2016, will embrace the Decision Review System (DRS) with each team having a maximum of two reviews per innings.

ICC adopts wait-and-watch approach on Afghanistan

The winners of the ICC Men`s T20 World Cup 2021 will take home a winners` cheque of USD 1.6 million while the runners-up will get half that amount, the International Cricket Council (ICC) confirmed on Sunday.

All 16 competing teams will receive part of the USD 5.6 million allocated as prize money for the tournament, which will be played in the United Arab Emirates and Oman from October 17 to November 14.

"The two losing semi-finalists will receive USD 400,000 each from the games taking place on November 10 and 11," the ICC said in its official release. As in 2016, there will be a bonus amount for every match that teams win in the Super 12 stage. The victors in each of the 30 games in that phase will this time win USD 40,000, a total pot of USD 1,200,000.

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The teams confirmed to be competing in the Super 12 stage are Afghanistan, Australia, England, India, New Zealand, Pakistan, South Africa, and the West Indies.

The eight teams whose ICC Men`s T20 World Cup campaigns end at that stage will automatically receive USD 70,000 each, a totally of USD 560,000.

The same structure is in place for the first-round victories - with USD 40,000 available to those who win each of the 12 games, amounting to USD 480,000.

The four teams knocked out in the first round will take USD 40,000 each from an overall USD 160,000.

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Teams whose campaigns begin in the first round are Bangladesh, Ireland, Namibia, Netherlands, Oman, Papua New Guinea, Scotland, and Sri Lanka.

Meanwhile, there will be two scheduled Drinks Intervals in each ICC Men`s T20 World Cup game. They will last for 2 minutes, 30 seconds and will be taken at the midpoint of each inning.

The winners of the ICC Men`s T20 World Cup 2021 will take home a winners` cheque of USD 1.6 million while the runners-up will get half that amount, the International Cricket Council (ICC) confirmed on Sunday.

The winners of the ICC Men`s T20 World Cup 2021 will take home a winners` cheque of USD 1.6 million while the runners-up will get half that amount, the International Cricket Council (ICC) confirmed on Sunday. All 16 competing teams will receive part of the USD 5.6 million allocated as prize money for the tournament, which will be played in the United Arab Emirates and Oman from October 17 to November 14. "The two losing semi-finalists will receive USD 400,000 each from the games taking place on November 10 and 11," the ICC said in its official release. As in 2016, there will be a bonus amount for every match that teams win in the Super 12 stage. The victors in each of the 30 games in that phase will this time win USD 40,000, a total pot of USD 1,200,000. ALSO READ: T20 format is casting a dark shadow over Test cricket, feels Ian Chappell The teams confirmed to be competing in the Super 12 stage are Afghanistan, Australia, England, India, New Zealand, Pakistan, South Africa, and the West Indies. The eight teams whose ICC Men`s T20 World Cup campaigns end at that stage will automatically receive USD 70,000 each, a totally of USD 560,000. The same structure is in place for the first-round victories - with USD 40,000 available to those who win each of the 12 games, amounting to USD 480,000. The four teams knocked out in the first round will take USD 40,000 each from an overall USD 160,000. Also Read: No Hardik Pandya! Virender Sehwag names 3 players Mumbai Indians should retain ahead of IPL mega auction Teams whose campaigns begin in the first round are Bangladesh, Ireland, Namibia, Netherlands, Oman, Papua New Guinea, Scotland, and Sri Lanka. Meanwhile, there will be two scheduled Drinks Intervals in each ICC Men`s T20 World Cup game. They will last for 2 minutes, 30 seconds and will be taken at the midpoint of each inning.

ICC announce USD 1.6 million prize money for winner of T20 World Cup 2021

Pakistan Cricket Board Chairman Ramiz Raja said on Wednesday that Pakistan Cricket Board would collapse if Indian government wanted, pointing to sizeable revenue International Cricket Council (ICC) gets from Indian markets.

Raja pointed out that PCB received 50 per cent of its funding from the ICC and the ICC raises 90 per cent of its money from Indian markets. In a way, Raja said that Indian businesses were keeping Pakistan cricket going. If Indian prime minister decided to stop funding, he said, Pakistan cricket would collapse.

"ICC funding means that the body conducts tournaments and distributes the money among member boards," he said as quoted by Pakistani news outlet Dawn.

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Ramiz Raja was speaking in front of Senate Standing Committee on Inter-Provincial Coordination.

During his briefing to the committe, Raja informed that New Zealand cricket board was rescheduling tour due to pressure from Pakistan.

New Zealand cricket team had come to Pakistan last month after a gap of 18 years to play three ODIs and five Twenty20 Internationals. However, minutes before the first ODI was to be played, New Zealand team opted out of the tour. They said that a 'security threat' was behind the decision but did not give more details.

Pakistan Cricket Board Chairman Ramiz Raja said on Wednesday that Pakistan Cricket Board would collapse if Indian government wanted, pointing to sizeable revenue International Cricket Council (ICC) gets from Indian markets.

Pakistan Cricket Board Chairman Ramiz Raja said on Wednesday that Pakistan Cricket Board would collapse if Indian government wanted, pointing to sizeable revenue International Cricket Council (ICC) gets from Indian markets. Raja pointed out that PCB received 50 per cent of its funding from the ICC and the ICC raises 90 per cent of its money from Indian markets. In a way, Raja said that Indian businesses were keeping Pakistan cricket going. If Indian prime minister decided to stop funding, he said, Pakistan cricket would collapse. "ICC funding means that the body conducts tournaments and distributes the money among member boards," he said as quoted by Pakistani news outlet Dawn. Also Read | If Pakistan beat India in T20 World Cup, PCB to get blank cheque: Ramiz Raja reveals investor's BIG claim Ramiz Raja was speaking in front of Senate Standing Committee on Inter-Provincial Coordination. During his briefing to the committe, Raja informed that New Zealand cricket board was rescheduling tour due to pressure from Pakistan. New Zealand cricket team had come to Pakistan last month after a gap of 18 years to play three ODIs and five Twenty20 Internationals. However, minutes before the first ODI was to be played, New Zealand team opted out of the tour. They said that a 'security threat' was behind the decision but did not give more details.

Pakistan Cricket Board can collapse if Indian government wants: Chairman Ramiz Raja

The International Cricket Council on Thursday decided to replace 'batsman' with gender-neutral term 'batter' in all its playing conditions starting with this month's men's T20 World Cup, describing the move as a "natural and overdue evolution" in the sport.

Last month, the Marylebone Cricket Club announced it would be replacing the word 'batsman' with 'batter' in the Laws of Cricket. That change will now be reflected across all ICC playing conditions going forward.

The ICC said over the past four years it has been moving away from the word 'batsman', with 'batter' implemented regularly in commentary and across the organisation's channels.

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The body's acting CEO Geoff Allardice said the MCC's decision to move to 'batter' in the laws of the game was one they 'welcomed'.

"The ICC has been utilising the term batter for some time now across our channels and in commentary and we welcome the MCC's decision to implement it into the Laws of cricket and will follow suit with our playing conditions that are derived from the Laws," Allardice said in a statement.

"This is a natural and perhaps overdue evolution of our sport and now our batters are gender-neutral in the same way as bowlers, fielders and wicket keepers."

He said it's a small change but one that will have significant impact on cricket being viewed as a more inclusive sport.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/the-reason-why-he-is-more-successful-gautam-gambhir-opens-up-on-virat-kohlis-playing-style-418690">'The reason why he is more successful': Gautam Gambhir opens up on Virat Kohli's playing style</a>

"Of course language changes alone will not grow the sport, we must ensure that girls and boys who are inspired to play cricket have a fantastic, fun first experience and are both able to progress as cricketers without barriers."

For ICC Hall of Famer and former Australia star Lisa Sthalekar, the move to 'batter' is a simple but important one.

Unaware cricket was a sport played by women as a child, Sthalekar went on to become one of the finest from Australia before making the step into commentary.

Having grown up using the term 'batter' as a player, she stuck to the word when she stepped behind the microphone and remembers being told by a co-commentator in one of her earliest gigs that batter was for fish?

"We don't say 'hey look at that fieldsman', we say 'look at the fielder'. We don't say 'bowlsman', we say 'bowler'," she said following the MCC decision.

"So if there is a similar term to describe someone with a piece of wood in their hands, why wouldn't we follow suit?"

The ICC said it's worth noting that up until this century, the phrase 'fieldsman' was an accepted term before the MCC stepped in back in 2000.

Sthalekar is well aware even with the ICC and MCC both moving permanently to 'batter' that 'batsman' will still be heard on occasion in the media.

"It's like a habit, it takes forever to get rid of it."

But the more 'batter' is used, the more it will become the norm and with that cricket will better engage with the next generation, she said.

Allardice described the move as a "common-sense change".

"Why not take a small step to ensuring we're a sport that doesn't exclude 50 per cent of the world's population with outdated language choices.

"Whilst some may have made lots of noise against this common-sense change, the majority of people within the game have welcomed the move."

The International Cricket Council on Thursday decided to replace 'batsman' with gender-neutral term 'batter' in all its playing conditions starting with this month's men's T20 World Cup, describing the move as a "natural and overdue evolution" in the sport.

The International Cricket Council on Thursday decided to replace 'batsman' with gender-neutral term 'batter' in all its playing conditions starting with this month's men's T20 World Cup, describing the move as a "natural and overdue evolution" in the sport. Last month, the Marylebone Cricket Club announced it would be replacing the word 'batsman' with 'batter' in the Laws of Cricket. That change will now be reflected across all ICC playing conditions going forward. The ICC said over the past four years it has been moving away from the word 'batsman', with 'batter' implemented regularly in commentary and across the organisation's channels. ALSO READ | Ian Botham questions England desire for 'ultimate' Ashes Test The body's acting CEO Geoff Allardice said the MCC's decision to move to 'batter' in the laws of the game was one they 'welcomed'. "The ICC has been utilising the term batter for some time now across our channels and in commentary and we welcome the MCC's decision to implement it into the Laws of cricket and will follow suit with our playing conditions that are derived from the Laws," Allardice said in a statement. "This is a natural and perhaps overdue evolution of our sport and now our batters are gender-neutral in the same way as bowlers, fielders and wicket keepers." He said it's a small change but one that will have significant impact on cricket being viewed as a more inclusive sport. ALSO READ | 'The reason why he is more successful': Gautam Gambhir opens up on Virat Kohli's playing style "Of course language changes alone will not grow the sport, we must ensure that girls and boys who are inspired to play cricket have a fantastic, fun first experience and are both able to progress as cricketers without barriers." For ICC Hall of Famer and former Australia star Lisa Sthalekar, the move to 'batter' is a simple but important one. Unaware cricket was a sport played by women as a child, Sthalekar went on to become one of the finest from Australia before making the step into commentary. Having grown up using the term 'batter' as a player, she stuck to the word when she stepped behind the microphone and remembers being told by a co-commentator in one of her earliest gigs that batter was for fish? "We don't say 'hey look at that fieldsman', we say 'look at the fielder'. We don't say 'bowlsman', we say 'bowler'," she said following the MCC decision. "So if there is a similar term to describe someone with a piece of wood in their hands, why wouldn't we follow suit?" The ICC said it's worth noting that up until this century, the phrase 'fieldsman' was an accepted term before the MCC stepped in back in 2000. Sthalekar is well aware even with the ICC and MCC both moving permanently to 'batter' that 'batsman' will still be heard on occasion in the media. "It's like a habit, it takes forever to get rid of it." But the more 'batter' is used, the more it will become the norm and with that cricket will better engage with the next generation, she said. Allardice described the move as a "common-sense change". "Why not take a small step to ensuring we're a sport that doesn't exclude 50 per cent of the world's population with outdated language choices. "Whilst some may have made lots of noise against this common-sense change, the majority of people within the game have welcomed the move."

ICC to replace 'batsman' with 'batter' from T20 WC onwards

Philippines President Rodrigo Duterte has said he will prepare his defence against an International Criminal Court probe into his deadly drug war, after previously insisting he would not cooperate.

ICC judges authorised in September a full-blown investigation into Duterte's anti-narcotics campaign, which rights groups estimate has killed tens of thousands of people, saying it resembled an illegitimate and systematic attack on civilians.

"I will prepare for my defence in the ICC," Duterte said in a pre-recorded speech released Monday, in his first public comments on the probe.

"Just stick to the facts because there are records of it. I am not threatening you -- just don't cheat me on the evidence," Duterte said in the speech, which came two days after he declared he would retire from politics.

Duterte has repeatedly attacked the world's only permanent war crimes court and insisted it has no jurisdiction in the Philippines.

The authoritarian firebrand pulled Manila out of the ICC after it launched a preliminary probe, but the Hague-based court says it has jurisdiction over crimes committed while the Philippines was still a member.

Duterte has repeatedly said there is no official campaign to illegally kill addicts and dealers, but his speeches have included incitements to violence and he previously told police to kill drug suspects if their lives were in danger.

- 'It's on me' -

Duterte said in the Monday speech he would protect officers carrying out the war on drugs "as long as you obey the law".

"It's on me, not on you," Duterte said.

"I will answer for it and if someone should go to prison, I will be the one to go to prison."

Three Philippine policemen were sentenced in 2018 to decades in prison for murdering a teenager during an anti-narcotics sweep, the first and only conviction so far against officers carrying out Duterte's war on drugs.

Justice Secretary Menardo Guevarra said Sunday a review of 52 anti-drug operations carried out by police had identified around 154 officers for "possible criminal liability".

The cases will be further investigated and criminal charges filed "if warranted by the evidence", Guevarra said.

Carlos Conde, Human Rights Watch senior researcher for the Philippines, said Duterte sounded like "a really scared man".

"He knows he will be held accountable and the ICC presents the best opportunity for that to happen," Conde told AFP.

"He's scared of an ICC conviction and, perhaps worse, losing... face (with) police officers who followed his murderous orders but are now realising that they, too, are accountable."

- Upcoming election -

Duterte, who is constitutionally barred from seeking a second term as president, declared in August he would run for the vice-presidency.

But in a surprise announcement Saturday, he said he would retire -- which was met with deep scepticism among analysts.

Duterte made a similar announcement in September 2015, saying he "will retire from public life for good", only to declare his presidential bid two months later.

Duterte has not named a successor, but indicated his daughter Sara would run alongside his longtime aide Senator Christopher Go.

Analysts say she would likely protect Duterte from criminal charges in the Philippines, and ICC prosecutors.

So far, she has denied plans to run for president.

Surveys have shown Sara Duterte, boxing great Manny Pacquiao and celebrity mayor Francisco Domagoso are the front runners, along with the son and namesake of former dictator Ferdinand Marcos.

Philippines President Rodrigo Duterte has said he will prepare his defence against an International Criminal Court probe into his deadly drug war, after previously insisting he would not cooperate.

Philippines President Rodrigo Duterte has said he will prepare his defence against an International Criminal Court probe into his deadly drug war, after previously insisting he would not cooperate. ICC judges authorised in September a full-blown investigation into Duterte's anti-narcotics campaign, which rights groups estimate has killed tens of thousands of people, saying it resembled an illegitimate and systematic attack on civilians. "I will prepare for my defence in the ICC," Duterte said in a pre-recorded speech released Monday, in his first public comments on the probe. "Just stick to the facts because there are records of it. I am not threatening you -- just don't cheat me on the evidence," Duterte said in the speech, which came two days after he declared he would retire from politics. Duterte has repeatedly attacked the world's only permanent war crimes court and insisted it has no jurisdiction in the Philippines. The authoritarian firebrand pulled Manila out of the ICC after it launched a preliminary probe, but the Hague-based court says it has jurisdiction over crimes committed while the Philippines was still a member. Duterte has repeatedly said there is no official campaign to illegally kill addicts and dealers, but his speeches have included incitements to violence and he previously told police to kill drug suspects if their lives were in danger. - 'It's on me' - Duterte said in the Monday speech he would protect officers carrying out the war on drugs "as long as you obey the law". "It's on me, not on you," Duterte said. "I will answer for it and if someone should go to prison, I will be the one to go to prison." Three Philippine policemen were sentenced in 2018 to decades in prison for murdering a teenager during an anti-narcotics sweep, the first and only conviction so far against officers carrying out Duterte's war on drugs. Justice Secretary Menardo Guevarra said Sunday a review of 52 anti-drug operations carried out by police had identified around 154 officers for "possible criminal liability". The cases will be further investigated and criminal charges filed "if warranted by the evidence", Guevarra said. Carlos Conde, Human Rights Watch senior researcher for the Philippines, said Duterte sounded like "a really scared man". "He knows he will be held accountable and the ICC presents the best opportunity for that to happen," Conde told AFP. "He's scared of an ICC conviction and, perhaps worse, losing... face (with) police officers who followed his murderous orders but are now realising that they, too, are accountable." - Upcoming election - Duterte, who is constitutionally barred from seeking a second term as president, declared in August he would run for the vice-presidency. But in a surprise announcement Saturday, he said he would retire -- which was met with deep scepticism among analysts. Duterte made a similar announcement in September 2015, saying he "will retire from public life for good", only to declare his presidential bid two months later. Duterte has not named a successor, but indicated his daughter Sara would run alongside his longtime aide Senator Christopher Go. Analysts say she would likely protect Duterte from criminal charges in the Philippines, and ICC prosecutors. So far, she has denied plans to run for president. Surveys have shown Sara Duterte, boxing great Manny Pacquiao and celebrity mayor Francisco Domagoso are the front runners, along with the son and namesake of former dictator Ferdinand Marcos.

Philippines' Duterte to prepare defence against ICC probe

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has been left miffed after New Zealand and England's decision to pull out of their respective tours of the country. The New Zealand team was in Pakistan for a limited-overs tour but abandoned the series after a 'security threat'. Days after New Zealand's decision to not play in Pakistan, England confirmed that they will not be touring the country.

As per a report in PTI, PCB chief Ramiz Raza has been on a 'warpath' since New Zealand and England's decision to pull out from their respective commitments. The PCB is now planning to take legal action against the two cricket boards ahead of the next ICC meeting.

PCB chief Raza is reportedly busy exploring legal options to take action against the England Cricket Board, and the New Zealand Cricket Board after speaking to PCB's patron-in-chief and Prime Minister Imran Khan.

"Pakistan is studying all legal resources it can take to demand compensation from the two boards," a source was quoted as saying by PTI.

Meanwhile, England cricket's player's body has claimed the England Cricket Board did not seek the suggestions from the players before making the decision to call off the tour of Pakistan. A spokesperson of the&nbsp;Team England Player Partnership (TEPP) denied players' involvement in the decision to not tour Pakistan.

"At no stage has the ECB (England and Wales Cricket Board) ever asked Team England Player Partnership or the teams, men and women, whether the tour should go ahead or whether players were prepared to tour Pakistan," a TEPP spokesperson was quoted as saying by British media.

Pakistan will now focus on preparing for the upcoming T20 World Cup after both New Zealand and England pulled out of their respective tours. The Babar Azam-led side will open their World Cup campaign against arch-rivals India on October 24.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has been left miffed after New Zealand and England's decision to pull out of their respective tours of the country. The New Zealand team was in Pakistan for a limited-overs tour but abandoned the series after a 'security threat'.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has been left miffed after New Zealand and England's decision to pull out of their respective tours of the country. The New Zealand team was in Pakistan for a limited-overs tour but abandoned the series after a 'security threat'. Days after New Zealand's decision to not play in Pakistan, England confirmed that they will not be touring the country. As per a report in PTI, PCB chief Ramiz Raza has been on a 'warpath' since New Zealand and England's decision to pull out from their respective commitments. The PCB is now planning to take legal action against the two cricket boards ahead of the next ICC meeting. PCB chief Raza is reportedly busy exploring legal options to take action against the England Cricket Board, and the New Zealand Cricket Board after speaking to PCB's patron-in-chief and Prime Minister Imran Khan. "Pakistan is studying all legal resources it can take to demand compensation from the two boards," a source was quoted as saying by PTI. Meanwhile, England cricket's player's body has claimed the England Cricket Board did not seek the suggestions from the players before making the decision to call off the tour of Pakistan. A spokesperson of the Team England Player Partnership (TEPP) denied players' involvement in the decision to not tour Pakistan. "At no stage has the ECB (England and Wales Cricket Board) ever asked Team England Player Partnership or the teams, men and women, whether the tour should go ahead or whether players were prepared to tour Pakistan," a TEPP spokesperson was quoted as saying by British media. Pakistan will now focus on preparing for the upcoming T20 World Cup after both New Zealand and England pulled out of their respective tours. The Babar Azam-led side will open their World Cup campaign against arch-rivals India on October 24.

Pakistan Cricket Board planning legal action ahead of next ICC meet after England, NZ cancel tours - Report

The International Cricket Council (ICC) have released the anthem song for the upcoming T20 World Cup on Thursday (September 23). The ICC launched the 1.5-minute long video on its official Twitter handle, which has gone viral in a flash. For the unversed, the video features the animated versions of Team India skipper Virat Kohli, West Indies captain Kieron Pollard, Australia's Glenn Maxwell and Afghanistan's Rashid Khan.

ICC shared the video and captioned the post, "Let the world know, 
This is your show Musical note

Come #LiveTheGame and groove to the &nbsp;#T20WorldCup anthem"

Here's the video, which has been accepted well by the viewers and has gone viral -

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Let the world know, 
This is your show 
 
Come <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LiveTheGame?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LiveTheGame</a> and groove to the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/T20WorldCup?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#T20WorldCup</a> anthem <a href="https://t.co/KKQTkxd3qw">pic.twitter.com/KKQTkxd3qw</a>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1440957203792515077?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 23, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Composed by popular Bollywood music director Amit Trivedi, the animated film stars many young fans from all over the world engaged in T20I cricket and includes some of the sport’s biggest superstars -- spearheaded by Kohli, Pollard, Maxwell, etc. Thus, the out-of-the-box presentation of the anthem has surely struck the right chord with the ardent cricket fans worldwide.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-ms-dhonis-inclusion-as-mentor-is-huge-boost-to-virat-kohli-and-finishers-in-t20-world-cup-squad-manoj-tiwary-412018">EXCLUSIVE | MS Dhoni's inclusion as mentor is huge boost to Virat Kohli and finishers in T20 World Cup squad: Manoj Tiwary</a>

A total of 16 countries will participate in the forthcoming T20 World Cup, which was set to be held in Australia last year but got postponed in the wake of Covid-19 crisis. The qualifying round will commence from October 17 whereas the main draw of the showpiece event will kick off from October 23.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) have released the anthem song for the upcoming T20 World Cup on Thursday (September 23). The ICC launched the 1.5-minute long video on its official Twitter handle, which has gone viral in a flash.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) have released the anthem song for the upcoming T20 World Cup on Thursday (September 23). The ICC launched the 1.5-minute long video on its official Twitter handle, which has gone viral in a flash. For the unversed, the video features the animated versions of Team India skipper Virat Kohli, West Indies captain Kieron Pollard, Australia's Glenn Maxwell and Afghanistan's Rashid Khan. ICC shared the video and captioned the post, "Let the world know, This is your show Musical note Come #LiveTheGame and groove to the #T20WorldCup anthem" Here's the video, which has been accepted well by the viewers and has gone viral - Let the world know, This is your show Come #LiveTheGame and groove to the #T20WorldCup anthem pic.twitter.com/KKQTkxd3qw — ICC (@ICC) September 23, 2021 × Composed by popular Bollywood music director Amit Trivedi, the animated film stars many young fans from all over the world engaged in T20I cricket and includes some of the sport’s biggest superstars -- spearheaded by Kohli, Pollard, Maxwell, etc. Thus, the out-of-the-box presentation of the anthem has surely struck the right chord with the ardent cricket fans worldwide. ALSO READ | EXCLUSIVE | MS Dhoni's inclusion as mentor is huge boost to Virat Kohli and finishers in T20 World Cup squad: Manoj Tiwary A total of 16 countries will participate in the forthcoming T20 World Cup, which was set to be held in Australia last year but got postponed in the wake of Covid-19 crisis. The qualifying round will commence from October 17 whereas the main draw of the showpiece event will kick off from October 23.

Watch: T20 World Cup anthem released by ICC as excitement builds up for marquee event

The Marylebone Cricket Club on Wednesday announced amendments that were made to the Laws of Cricket to use the gender-neutral terms "batter" and "batters", rather than "batsman" or "batsmen", with an aim to stress the importance of the women's game.

The Marylebone Cricket Club on Wednesday announced amendments that were made to the Laws of Cricket to use the gender-neutral terms "batter" and "batters", rather than "batsman" or "batsmen", with an aim to stress the importance of the women's game. MCC is encouraging everyone to adopt the updated terminology following the change to the laws. On its official site, MCC informed that the changes have been approved by the MCC Committee, following initial discussion by the club's specialist laws sub-committee. Part of the statement read: "MCC believes that the use of gender-neutral terminology helps reinforce cricket’s status as an inclusive game for all. The amendments are a natural evolution from work already undertaken in this area as well as an essential part of MCC's global responsibility to the sport." It is worth mentioning that women's cricket will feature at the Commonwealth Games for the first time at the 2022 Games in Birmingham, England. IN PICS | IPL 2021 UAE leg: All teams and their revised squad list Jamie Cox, Assistant Secretary (Cricket and Operations) at MCC said as quoted by the MCC's site, "MCC believes in cricket being a game for all and this move recognises the changing landscape of the game in modern times." "Use of the term “batter” is a natural evolution in our shared cricketing language and the terminology has already been adopted by many of those involved in the sport. It is the right time for this adjustment to be recognised formally and we are delighted, as the Guardians of the Laws, to announce these changes today," he added. MCC has today announced amendments to the Laws of Cricket to use the gender-neutral terms “batter” and “batters”, rather than “batsman” or “batsmen”. — Marylebone Cricket Club (@MCCOfficial) September 22, 2021 × Women's cricket in recent times has seen tremendous growth in terms of popularity. One can remember the 2017 World Cup final, which took place in front of a capacity crowd at Lord's when England defeated India while the women's World Twenty20 final between Australia and India last year attracted more than 80,000 to the Melbourne Cricket Ground The MCC, the most esteemed club in the sport, welcomed its first female full member in 2018, 20 years after a vote to allow women to join. Former England captain Clare Connor, the England and Wales Cricket Board's managing director of women's cricket, will become the first female president in the club's history next month when she takes over from Sri Lankan Kumar Sangakkara. (With inputs from agencies)

'Gender-neutral terminology': MCC changes 'batsman' to 'batter' in Laws of Cricket

Afghanistan has been under severe stress in the past few months, ever since the Taliban outfit took over from the government. However, the Taliban group had made it clear that they will allow the senior men's cricket team to function without any interference from their end. Thus, the Afghanistan's men's cricket team is set to take part in the forthcoming T20 World Cup, which will commence from October 17 in the UAE. However,&nbsp;things could still go downhill for the Asian side if they play under the Taliban flag.&nbsp;

In case, Afghanistan goes ahead and decides to take part under the Taliban flag, the repercussions could be huge for them as the International Cricket Council (ICC) can ban the team from participating in the marquee event and suspend them as well.

After the removal of executive director Hamid Shinwari by Taliban rulers, the talks doing the rounds are that the men’s cricket team might play under the Taliban flag in the seventh edition of the T20 WC. For the unversed, all 16 participating countries are required to submit the flags under which they will be playing in the coming few days. Hence, all eyes are on Afghanistan. The ICC might set up a meeting soon if the Rashid Khan-starrer&nbsp;participate under the Taliban flag; where a board meeting could then vote to suspend the team.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/shahid-afridi-makes-glaring-remark-says-taliban-outfit-have-entered-afghanistan-with-positive-mindset-409575">Shahid Afridi makes glaring remark, says Taliban outfit have entered Afghanistan with 'positive mindset'</a>

At present, some of the Afghanistan players are busy involved in the second and final leg of the IPL 2021 edition, being held in the UAE which will be followed by the T20 WC. Thus, it remains to be seen what action will the ICC take if Afghanistan turn up under the Taliban flag for the showpiece event.

Afghanistan has been under severe stress in the past few months, ever since the Taliban outfit took over from the government. However, the Taliban group had made it clear that they will allow the senior men's cricket team to function without any interference from their end.

Afghanistan has been under severe stress in the past few months, ever since the Taliban outfit took over from the government. However, the Taliban group had made it clear that they will allow the senior men's cricket team to function without any interference from their end. Thus, the Afghanistan's men's cricket team is set to take part in the forthcoming T20 World Cup, which will commence from October 17 in the UAE. However, things could still go downhill for the Asian side if they play under the Taliban flag. In case, Afghanistan goes ahead and decides to take part under the Taliban flag, the repercussions could be huge for them as the International Cricket Council (ICC) can ban the team from participating in the marquee event and suspend them as well. After the removal of executive director Hamid Shinwari by Taliban rulers, the talks doing the rounds are that the men’s cricket team might play under the Taliban flag in the seventh edition of the T20 WC. For the unversed, all 16 participating countries are required to submit the flags under which they will be playing in the coming few days. Hence, all eyes are on Afghanistan. The ICC might set up a meeting soon if the Rashid Khan-starrer participate under the Taliban flag; where a board meeting could then vote to suspend the team. ALSO READ | Shahid Afridi makes glaring remark, says Taliban outfit have entered Afghanistan with 'positive mindset' At present, some of the Afghanistan players are busy involved in the second and final leg of the IPL 2021 edition, being held in the UAE which will be followed by the T20 WC. Thus, it remains to be seen what action will the ICC take if Afghanistan turn up under the Taliban flag for the showpiece event.

T20 World Cup: Afghanistan faces potential ICC ban if they play mega event under Taliban flag: Reports

The International Cricket Council (ICC), on behalf of the Emirates Cricket Board (ECB), has charged former West Indies player Marlon Samuels with breaching four counts of the ECB Anti-Corruption Code for Participants of the T10 League (the `Code`). ICC on Wednesday informed that Samuels has been charged with the following offences under the Code: A breach of Article 2.4.2 -- Failing to disclose to the Designated Anti-Corruption Official, the receipt of any gift, payment, hospitality or other benefit that was made or given in circumstances that could bring the Participant or the sport of cricket into disrepute.

A breach of Article 2.4.3 -- Failing to disclose to the Designated Anti-Corruption Official receipt of hospitality with a value of US $750 or more. Breaches of Article 2.4.6 -- Failing to cooperate with the Designated Anti-Corruption Official`s investigation. Breaches of Article 2.4.7 -- Obstructing or delaying the Designated Anti-Corruption Official`s investigation by concealing information that may have been relevant to the investigation."Mr Samuels has 14 days from 21 September to respond to the charges. The ICC will not make any further comment in respect of these charges at this stage," ICC in an official statement said.&nbsp;

The International Cricket Council (ICC), on behalf of the Emirates Cricket Board (ECB), has charged former West Indies player Marlon Samuels with breaching four counts of the ECB Anti-Corruption Code for Participants of the T10 League (the `Code`).

The International Cricket Council (ICC), on behalf of the Emirates Cricket Board (ECB), has charged former West Indies player Marlon Samuels with breaching four counts of the ECB Anti-Corruption Code for Participants of the T10 League (the `Code`). ICC on Wednesday informed that Samuels has been charged with the following offences under the Code: A breach of Article 2.4.2 -- Failing to disclose to the Designated Anti-Corruption Official, the receipt of any gift, payment, hospitality or other benefit that was made or given in circumstances that could bring the Participant or the sport of cricket into disrepute. A breach of Article 2.4.3 -- Failing to disclose to the Designated Anti-Corruption Official receipt of hospitality with a value of US $750 or more. Breaches of Article 2.4.6 -- Failing to cooperate with the Designated Anti-Corruption Official`s investigation. Breaches of Article 2.4.7 -- Obstructing or delaying the Designated Anti-Corruption Official`s investigation by concealing information that may have been relevant to the investigation."Mr Samuels has 14 days from 21 September to respond to the charges. The ICC will not make any further comment in respect of these charges at this stage," ICC in an official statement said.

Marlon Samuels charged under ICC Anti-Corruption Code

The Taliban have banned women's cricket, calling it a violation of Islamic principles. Will the all-powerful ICC suspend Taliban-ruled Afghanistan? What can be done to evacuate women cricketers? Palki Sharma tells you.

Gravitas: ICC silent as Taliban ban women's cricket

New Zealand's cricket squad arrived in Pakistan Saturday for their first tour in 18 years, with batting coach Thilan Samaraweera returning to the country where he was shot in 2009.

Samaraweera was part of the Sri Lankan team that was attacked by militants near the Gadaffi Stadium in Lahore in 2009.

Samaraweera was shot in the left thigh and took three months after surgery to get back on the field. He has been working with the New Zealand team since 2019.

Those attacks led international teams to refuse to tour in Pakistan, forcing them to play in neutral venues in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/afghanistan-cricket-board-chief-hints-women-can-still-play-reports-412308">Afghanistan Cricket Board chief hints women can still play: Reports</a>

New Zealand also had to cut short a tour of Pakistan in 2002, after a bomb blast outside their team hotel in Karachi.

They returned to play five one-day internationals in 2003 -- their last tour of Pakistan.

On Saturday, the New Zealand team was taken to their hotel in a bullet-proof bus.

Stand-in skipper Tom Latham said he and his players were happy to be in Pakistan.

"It's obviously very pleasing for Pakistan as a nation," Latham said.&nbsp;

In the last six years Pakistan have hosted Zimbabwe, South Africa, Bangladesh, the West Indies and Sri Lanka as has security improved in the country.

New Zealand will play three one-day internationals (September 17, 19, 21) in Rawalpindi, and five Twenty20 internationals (September 25, 26,&nbsp;29, October 1 and 3) in Lahore.

The current New Zealand squad is weakened by the absence of eight of their top players, including skipper Kane Williamson who will be playing in the rescheduled Indian Premier League in the UAE from next week.

"For us, it's just about going there and trying to adapt to conditions," Latham added.

"So, another opportunity for the group and they're all looking forward to it," he added.

Five members of the T20 squad -- Todd Astle, Mark Chapman, Martin Guptill, Daryl Mitchell and Ish Sodhi -- are expected to arrive later on Sunday.

As part of Covid-19 precautions, the series will be played before 25 percent full crowds, all of whom must be vaccinated to attend.

NZ ODI squad: Tom Latham (captain), Finn Allen, Hamish Bennett, Tom Blundell, Doug Bracewell, Colin de Grandhomme, Jacob Duffy, Matt Henry, Scott Kuggeleijn, Cole McConchie, Henry Nicholls, Ajaz Patel, Rachin Ravindra, Blair Tickner, Will Young.

New Zealand's cricket squad arrived in Pakistan Saturday for their first tour in 18 years, with batting coach Thilan Samaraweera returning to the country where he was shot in 2009.

New Zealand's cricket squad arrived in Pakistan Saturday for their first tour in 18 years, with batting coach Thilan Samaraweera returning to the country where he was shot in 2009. Samaraweera was part of the Sri Lankan team that was attacked by militants near the Gadaffi Stadium in Lahore in 2009. Samaraweera was shot in the left thigh and took three months after surgery to get back on the field. He has been working with the New Zealand team since 2019. Those attacks led international teams to refuse to tour in Pakistan, forcing them to play in neutral venues in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). ALSO READ | Afghanistan Cricket Board chief hints women can still play: Reports New Zealand also had to cut short a tour of Pakistan in 2002, after a bomb blast outside their team hotel in Karachi. They returned to play five one-day internationals in 2003 -- their last tour of Pakistan. On Saturday, the New Zealand team was taken to their hotel in a bullet-proof bus. Stand-in skipper Tom Latham said he and his players were happy to be in Pakistan. "It's obviously very pleasing for Pakistan as a nation," Latham said. In the last six years Pakistan have hosted Zimbabwe, South Africa, Bangladesh, the West Indies and Sri Lanka as has security improved in the country. New Zealand will play three one-day internationals (September 17, 19, 21) in Rawalpindi, and five Twenty20 internationals (September 25, 26, 29, October 1 and 3) in Lahore. The current New Zealand squad is weakened by the absence of eight of their top players, including skipper Kane Williamson who will be playing in the rescheduled Indian Premier League in the UAE from next week. "For us, it's just about going there and trying to adapt to conditions," Latham added. "So, another opportunity for the group and they're all looking forward to it," he added. Five members of the T20 squad -- Todd Astle, Mark Chapman, Martin Guptill, Daryl Mitchell and Ish Sodhi -- are expected to arrive later on Sunday. As part of Covid-19 precautions, the series will be played before 25 percent full crowds, all of whom must be vaccinated to attend. NZ ODI squad: Tom Latham (captain), Finn Allen, Hamish Bennett, Tom Blundell, Doug Bracewell, Colin de Grandhomme, Jacob Duffy, Matt Henry, Scott Kuggeleijn, Cole McConchie, Henry Nicholls, Ajaz Patel, Rachin Ravindra, Blair Tickner, Will Young.

New Zealand cricket team in Pakistan for first tour in 18 years

The Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) has urged the Australian cricket board to not penalise the men's cricket team over Taliban rulers' suggestion that they might ban women from the sport.&nbsp;

Recently, a Taliban official said it was "not necessary" for women to play any sport as it would be against Islam if women players faced a situation where their face and body might be "uncovered".&nbsp;

Responding to the same, Cricket Australia (CA) on Thursday said it would cancel the historic maiden Test between the two countries, which was&nbsp;scheduled to take place in November.&nbsp;

As per ICC rules, all Test playing nations must have a women's team as well.&nbsp;

Now, the Afghan board's CEO Hamid Shinwari released a lengthy statement as he expressed "shock and immense disappointment" at the potential cancellation of the Australia-Afghanistan Test. He said it is "sudden and unexpected" and called it a "knee-jerk reaction".

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-is-a-huge-financial-issue-hanging-over-the-game-nasser-hussain-on-fifth-test-being-called-off-412154">'IPL is a huge financial issue hanging over the game': Nasser Hussain on fifth Test being called off</a>

"The ACB is powerless to change the culture and religious environment of Afghanistan," Shinwari said in a statement. "Do not isolate us and avoid penalising us," he added.&nbsp;

"We ask Cricket Australia and the whole cricketing world to keep the door open for us, walk with us, do not isolate us and avoid penalising us for our cultural and religious environment," Shinwari said.&nbsp;

"We accept that CA sees cricket as 'a sport for all and we support the game unequivocally for women at every level'. We understand, too, why 'if recent media reports that women's cricket will not be supported in Afghanistan are substantiated', CA might believe they have 'no alternative' but to refuse to host the scheduled test match," he said.

IN PICS | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/taliban-and-afghan-flags-side-by-side-as-fans-enjoy-a-game-of-cricket-at-kabul-international-stadium-410681">Taliban and Afghan flags side by side as fans enjoy a game of cricket at Kabul International Stadium</a>

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We ask Cricket Australia and the whole cricketing world to keep the door open for us, walk with us, do not isolate us and avoid penalising us for our cultural and religious environment. 
 
Press release: <a href="https://t.co/4zgYdzbWzI">https://t.co/4zgYdzbWzI</a>
— Hamid Shinwari (@hamidshinwari03) <a href="https://twitter.com/hamidshinwari03/status/1436293777065496581?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 10, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Shinwari said it fears that if other countries follow CA, then Afghanistan will be alienated from the cricket world and the game may cease to exist in the country.

"If the CA decides to cancel the test match and isolate the Afghan men's national team, it will have no impact upon those cultural and religious values as they stand. The spokesman for the government has unequivocally stated this," he said.

It said the Taliban's diktat regarding women's participation in cricket was not substantially different to the ACB's cultural and religious environment during the earlier governments.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-releases-statement-over-cancellation-of-fifth-test-between-india-and-england-412114" hreflang="en">BCCI releases statement over cancellation of fifth Test between India and England</a>

"ICC has been aware of our cultural and religious environment and it has taken a balanced, diplomatic, sensitive and considerate approach as we have worked to develop every aspect of the game of cricket in our country despite the situations we have faced."

"We believe that the ICC has had the forethought to recognise and accept that we have been doing all we can to grow cricket in the traditional cultural, religious and changing political environments of our country."

"The alternative to cancellation of the test match would be for CA to take the same approach as the ICC. A considered, balanced, 'cricket diplomacy' would be far more productive for Afghanistan and for cricket than a sudden 'knee jerk' reaction," he added.&nbsp;

ACB chairman Azizullah Fazli, however, told AFP he had spoken with Cricket Australia on Friday.&nbsp;

"I asked them to keep cricket out of politics," he said. "Talks are ongoing and I am hopeful that, God willing, the Test match will be played on time."

Read the statement here:

<img alt="Hamid Shinwari" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="726c8b91-9c67-4e29-bb98-2f44b4097d04" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/hamid.PNG" />

Recently, Australia Test captain Tim Paine said it would be "impossible" for Afghanistan to compete in next month's T20 World Cup as other countries might refuse to play against them following Taliban's ban on women's cricket in the war-ravaged country.&nbsp;

Paine backed the decision of Cricket Australia (CA) which all but confirmed on Thursday that the men team's season-opening Test against Afghanistan, slated to start on November 27, will be scrapped due to the Taliban's order.&nbsp;

"I don't think we want to be associated with countries that are taking opportunities or things off literally half their population," Paine was quoted as saying on SEN radio.&nbsp;

"I'd imagine it's impossible (for Afghanistan to take part) if teams are pulling out of playing against them and governments are not letting them travel to our shores.&nbsp;

"How a team like that can be allowed to play in an ICC-sanctioned event is going to be very, very hard to see," he added.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) has urged the Australian cricket board to not penalise the men's cricket team over Taliban rulers' suggestion that they might ban women from the sport.

The Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) has urged the Australian cricket board to not penalise the men's cricket team over Taliban rulers' suggestion that they might ban women from the sport. Recently, a Taliban official said it was "not necessary" for women to play any sport as it would be against Islam if women players faced a situation where their face and body might be "uncovered". Responding to the same, Cricket Australia (CA) on Thursday said it would cancel the historic maiden Test between the two countries, which was scheduled to take place in November. As per ICC rules, all Test playing nations must have a women's team as well. Now, the Afghan board's CEO Hamid Shinwari released a lengthy statement as he expressed "shock and immense disappointment" at the potential cancellation of the Australia-Afghanistan Test. He said it is "sudden and unexpected" and called it a "knee-jerk reaction". ALSO READ | 'IPL is a huge financial issue hanging over the game': Nasser Hussain on fifth Test being called off "The ACB is powerless to change the culture and religious environment of Afghanistan," Shinwari said in a statement. "Do not isolate us and avoid penalising us," he added. "We ask Cricket Australia and the whole cricketing world to keep the door open for us, walk with us, do not isolate us and avoid penalising us for our cultural and religious environment," Shinwari said. "We accept that CA sees cricket as 'a sport for all and we support the game unequivocally for women at every level'. We understand, too, why 'if recent media reports that women's cricket will not be supported in Afghanistan are substantiated', CA might believe they have 'no alternative' but to refuse to host the scheduled test match," he said. IN PICS | Taliban and Afghan flags side by side as fans enjoy a game of cricket at Kabul International Stadium 2/2 We ask Cricket Australia and the whole cricketing world to keep the door open for us, walk with us, do not isolate us and avoid penalising us for our cultural and religious environment. Press release: https://t.co/4zgYdzbWzI — Hamid Shinwari (@hamidshinwari03) September 10, 2021 × Shinwari said it fears that if other countries follow CA, then Afghanistan will be alienated from the cricket world and the game may cease to exist in the country. "If the CA decides to cancel the test match and isolate the Afghan men's national team, it will have no impact upon those cultural and religious values as they stand. The spokesman for the government has unequivocally stated this," he said. It said the Taliban's diktat regarding women's participation in cricket was not substantially different to the ACB's cultural and religious environment during the earlier governments. ALSO READ: BCCI releases statement over cancellation of fifth Test between India and England "ICC has been aware of our cultural and religious environment and it has taken a balanced, diplomatic, sensitive and considerate approach as we have worked to develop every aspect of the game of cricket in our country despite the situations we have faced." "We believe that the ICC has had the forethought to recognise and accept that we have been doing all we can to grow cricket in the traditional cultural, religious and changing political environments of our country." "The alternative to cancellation of the test match would be for CA to take the same approach as the ICC. A considered, balanced, 'cricket diplomacy' would be far more productive for Afghanistan and for cricket than a sudden 'knee jerk' reaction," he added. ACB chairman Azizullah Fazli, however, told AFP he had spoken with Cricket Australia on Friday. "I asked them to keep cricket out of politics," he said. "Talks are ongoing and I am hopeful that, God willing, the Test match will be played on time." Read the statement here: Recently, Australia Test captain Tim Paine said it would be "impossible" for Afghanistan to compete in next month's T20 World Cup as other countries might refuse to play against them following Taliban's ban on women's cricket in the war-ravaged country. Paine backed the decision of Cricket Australia (CA) which all but confirmed on Thursday that the men team's season-opening Test against Afghanistan, slated to start on November 27, will be scrapped due to the Taliban's order. "I don't think we want to be associated with countries that are taking opportunities or things off literally half their population," Paine was quoted as saying on SEN radio. "I'd imagine it's impossible (for Afghanistan to take part) if teams are pulling out of playing against them and governments are not letting them travel to our shores. "How a team like that can be allowed to play in an ICC-sanctioned event is going to be very, very hard to see," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

'Do not isolate us': Afghanistan cricket board urges to keep game 'out of politics'

England batter Ollie Pope and India all-rounder Shardul Thakur have made notable gains in the ICC Men`s Test Player Rankings after fine performances in the fourth Test of their ICC World Test Championship series played at The Oval.

Pope`s first innings knock of 82 has helped him advance nine slots to 49th position among batters while Thakur`s two half-centuries have lifted him a good 59 places to 79th position. Thakur has also moved up seven places to 49th in the bowlers` list after finishing with four wickets in the match.

India opener Rohit Sharma remains fifth but his match-winning 127 in the second innings sees him increase the lead over captain Virat Kohli from seven to 30 rating points while fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah is up from 10th to ninth after finishing with two wickets in each innings of the match.

England all-rounder Chris Woakes is another one to progress in the latest weekly update, gaining seven places to reach 87th among batters and three places to 23rd among bowlers after finishing with seven wickets at The Oval. Ollie Robinson`s five wickets have lifted him three places to 33rd.

In the ICC Men`s ODI Player Rankings, South Africa opener Janneman Malan has moved up 31 places to 34th after scoring 162 runs in the three-match ICC Men`s Cricket World Cup Super League series that Sri Lanka won 2-1.

Aiden Markram (up six places to 69th) and Heinrich Klaasen (up seven places to 70th) are the others from the team to progress among batters. Left-arm spinner Tabraiz Shamsi, who is the top-ranked bowler in T20Is, has moved up nine places to 28th among bowlers.

Sri Lanka`s Avishka Fernando is up 11 places to 41st while Kariyawasa Asalanka`s series topping 196 runs see him shoot up 122 places to 66th position. Wanindu Hasaranga is up three places to 32nd among bowlers.

In the ICC Men`s T20I Player Rankings, Paul Stirling has gained nine slots to reach 14th place after scoring 234 runs in the five-match series against Zimbabwe, which they won at home. Craig Ervine is another batter to move up the batting rankings, from 128th to 85th.

For Bangladesh, spin bowlers Shakib Al Hassan and Mehedi Hasan, who have four wickets each in the first three matches of their ongoing five-match home series against New Zealand, have also progressed. Shakib has gone up from 12th to ninth and Mehedi from 91st to 24th.&nbsp;

England batter Ollie Pope and India all-rounder Shardul Thakur have made notable gains in the ICC Men`s Test Player Rankings after fine performances in the fourth Test of their ICC World Test Championship series played at The Oval.

England batter Ollie Pope and India all-rounder Shardul Thakur have made notable gains in the ICC Men`s Test Player Rankings after fine performances in the fourth Test of their ICC World Test Championship series played at The Oval. Pope`s first innings knock of 82 has helped him advance nine slots to 49th position among batters while Thakur`s two half-centuries have lifted him a good 59 places to 79th position. Thakur has also moved up seven places to 49th in the bowlers` list after finishing with four wickets in the match. India opener Rohit Sharma remains fifth but his match-winning 127 in the second innings sees him increase the lead over captain Virat Kohli from seven to 30 rating points while fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah is up from 10th to ninth after finishing with two wickets in each innings of the match. England all-rounder Chris Woakes is another one to progress in the latest weekly update, gaining seven places to reach 87th among batters and three places to 23rd among bowlers after finishing with seven wickets at The Oval. Ollie Robinson`s five wickets have lifted him three places to 33rd. In the ICC Men`s ODI Player Rankings, South Africa opener Janneman Malan has moved up 31 places to 34th after scoring 162 runs in the three-match ICC Men`s Cricket World Cup Super League series that Sri Lanka won 2-1. Aiden Markram (up six places to 69th) and Heinrich Klaasen (up seven places to 70th) are the others from the team to progress among batters. Left-arm spinner Tabraiz Shamsi, who is the top-ranked bowler in T20Is, has moved up nine places to 28th among bowlers. Sri Lanka`s Avishka Fernando is up 11 places to 41st while Kariyawasa Asalanka`s series topping 196 runs see him shoot up 122 places to 66th position. Wanindu Hasaranga is up three places to 32nd among bowlers. In the ICC Men`s T20I Player Rankings, Paul Stirling has gained nine slots to reach 14th place after scoring 234 runs in the five-match series against Zimbabwe, which they won at home. Craig Ervine is another batter to move up the batting rankings, from 128th to 85th. For Bangladesh, spin bowlers Shakib Al Hassan and Mehedi Hasan, who have four wickets each in the first three matches of their ongoing five-match home series against New Zealand, have also progressed. Shakib has gone up from 12th to ninth and Mehedi from 91st to 24th.

ICC Test Rankings: Rohit retains fifth place, Bumrah moves to 9th

Indian batsman KL Rahul has been fined 15% of his match fee for breaching the ICC's code of conduct during the fourth Test of the five-match series between India and England.&nbsp;

The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Sunday (September 5) informed that Rahul has been penalised for protesting against the umpire's decision after his dismissal on day three of the fourth Test at The Oval.&nbsp;

Besides deduction in match fee, one demerit point will also be added to Rahul's disciplinary record as it was his first offence in a 24-month period.&nbsp;

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During England pacer James Anderson's over, Rahul was dismissed at the score of 46. Initially, it was given not out by the on-field umpire but after England reviews it, the replays showed an edge off the bat and then the decision was overturned.&nbsp;

KL Rahul made his displeasure clear after the review adjudged him out and was found guilty of breaching the ICC's code of conduct relating to "showing dissent at an umpire's decision during an international match", the world cricket governing body said in a statement.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-sharma-says-when-he-was-asked-to-open-in-2019-he-knew-it-was-his-last-chance-in-tests-410839">Rohit Sharma says when he was asked to open in 2019, he knew it was his 'last chance' in Tests</a>

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YESSS <a href="https://twitter.com/jimmy9?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@jimmy9</a> gets the first wicket! 
 
Scorecard/Clips: <a href="https://t.co/Kh5KyTSOMS">https://t.co/Kh5KyTSOMS</a> 
 
🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ENGvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ENGvIND</a> 🇮🇳 <a href="https://t.co/oty3Zlu2CG">pic.twitter.com/oty3Zlu2CG</a>
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The decision was made by on-field umpires Alex Wharf and Richard Illingworth, third umpire Michael Gough, and match referee Chris Broad.

The ICC said there was no need for a formal hearing as Rahul accepted the sanction proposed by match referee Chris Broad.

Indian batsman KL Rahul has been fined 15% of his match fee for breaching the ICC's code of conduct during the fourth Test of the five-match series between India and England.

Indian batsman KL Rahul has been fined 15% of his match fee for breaching the ICC's code of conduct during the fourth Test of the five-match series between India and England. The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Sunday (September 5) informed that Rahul has been penalised for protesting against the umpire's decision after his dismissal on day three of the fourth Test at The Oval. Besides deduction in match fee, one demerit point will also be added to Rahul's disciplinary record as it was his first offence in a 24-month period. ALSO READ | Ravi Shastri tests COVID-19 positive, Indian support staff members in isolation During England pacer James Anderson's over, Rahul was dismissed at the score of 46. Initially, it was given not out by the on-field umpire but after England reviews it, the replays showed an edge off the bat and then the decision was overturned. KL Rahul made his displeasure clear after the review adjudged him out and was found guilty of breaching the ICC's code of conduct relating to "showing dissent at an umpire's decision during an international match", the world cricket governing body said in a statement. ALSO READ | Rohit Sharma says when he was asked to open in 2019, he knew it was his 'last chance' in Tests YESSS @jimmy9 gets the first wicket! Scorecard/Clips: https://t.co/Kh5KyTSOMS 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 #ENGvIND 🇮🇳 pic.twitter.com/oty3Zlu2CG — England Cricket (@englandcricket) September 4, 2021 × The decision was made by on-field umpires Alex Wharf and Richard Illingworth, third umpire Michael Gough, and match referee Chris Broad. The ICC said there was no need for a formal hearing as Rahul accepted the sanction proposed by match referee Chris Broad.

India vs England: KL Rahul fined for breaching the ICC's code of conduct

Afghanistan woman cricketer Roya&nbsp;Samim flew to Canada along with her two sisters in the wake of the unrest back home post Taliban's entry. Ever since the Taliban terror group took over the city of Kabul, Afghanistan has been going through a severe unrest and there is a feeling of helplessness among the citizens.

While Roya left her country two days before Taliban entered Kabul, she vented out her frustration and disappointment in leaving her homeland and settling elsewhere. Speaking to The Guardian, she said, "Leaving Afghanistan, it was a sad day for me. I just cried. I really love everything that I had: my job, my cricket, my teammates, my home town, my relatives. Everything that I have, I leave behind. Even now when I remember this day I will cry. The Taliban are against girls studying, so how do they want a girl’s cricket team?"

To her knowledge, Roya feels only her sisters and she has managed to leave the troubled country in the right time. Thus, Roya remains extremely concerned about her teammates and told, "My other teammates who stay in Afghanistan are afraid, they stay in their houses. They are sad, they ask people to please help us. Emotionally and physically, they are not good."

What hurt Roya was no response that she got from the International Cricket Council (ICC). In this regard, she pointed out, "We all emailed the ICC but got no response from them,” says Samim. “Why do they not respond to us, why do they not consider us, even treat us that we don’t exist in the world? After the Taliban came into Kabul, we requested that [the ICC] please save all the girls, we are worried for our teammates. The Afghan Cricket Board [ACB] also said nothing, they said just: ‘Wait.’"

Given the grim situation in Afghanistan, many are living in uncertain times in their own country.

For the unversed, Former Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi, however, made heads turn with his recent remark supporting the Taliban terror group, saying they've entered Taliban with a 'positive intent'.&nbsp;Afridi's&nbsp;statement comes at a time after a suicide bombing at Kabul airport killed at least 170 people, including 13 US security personnel. Hence, he received criticism from several quarters for his glaring statement.

Afghanistan woman cricketer Roya Samim flew to Canada along with her two sisters in the wake of the unrest back home post Taliban's entry. Ever since the Taliban terror group took over the city of Kabul, Afghanistan has been going through a severe unrest and there is a feeling of helplessness among the citizens.

Afghanistan woman cricketer Roya Samim flew to Canada along with her two sisters in the wake of the unrest back home post Taliban's entry. Ever since the Taliban terror group took over the city of Kabul, Afghanistan has been going through a severe unrest and there is a feeling of helplessness among the citizens. While Roya left her country two days before Taliban entered Kabul, she vented out her frustration and disappointment in leaving her homeland and settling elsewhere. Speaking to The Guardian, she said, "Leaving Afghanistan, it was a sad day for me. I just cried. I really love everything that I had: my job, my cricket, my teammates, my home town, my relatives. Everything that I have, I leave behind. Even now when I remember this day I will cry. The Taliban are against girls studying, so how do they want a girl’s cricket team?" To her knowledge, Roya feels only her sisters and she has managed to leave the troubled country in the right time. Thus, Roya remains extremely concerned about her teammates and told, "My other teammates who stay in Afghanistan are afraid, they stay in their houses. They are sad, they ask people to please help us. Emotionally and physically, they are not good." What hurt Roya was no response that she got from the International Cricket Council (ICC). In this regard, she pointed out, "We all emailed the ICC but got no response from them,” says Samim. “Why do they not respond to us, why do they not consider us, even treat us that we don’t exist in the world? After the Taliban came into Kabul, we requested that [the ICC] please save all the girls, we are worried for our teammates. The Afghan Cricket Board [ACB] also said nothing, they said just: ‘Wait.’" Given the grim situation in Afghanistan, many are living in uncertain times in their own country. For the unversed, Former Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi, however, made heads turn with his recent remark supporting the Taliban terror group, saying they've entered Taliban with a 'positive intent'. Afridi's statement comes at a time after a suicide bombing at Kabul airport killed at least 170 people, including 13 US security personnel. Hence, he received criticism from several quarters for his glaring statement.

We emailed ICC but got no response, reveals Afghanistan woman cricketer who left Kabul post Taliban's entry

With the Taliban seizing power in Afghanistan, the fate of women in the nation has become a major concern. Taliban rule is based on Sharia Laws, which would have a negative influence on women's rights in the country.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-is-the-most-foul-mouthed-individual-tweets-former-england-cricketer-later-deletes-it-406827" hreflang="en">'Virat Kohli is the most foul mouthed individual', tweets former England cricketer; later deletes it</a>

The International Cricket Council (ICC) is also taking a close look at the situation in Afghanistan and tracking the potential changes in Afghanistan’s women’s cricket.&nbsp;

According to a report in CricBuzz, the ICC HQ in Abu Dhabi are in contact with Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) in Kabul to try and “fully understand the impact of changes” in the country.&nbsp;

“That was a massive development. We don’t know what now,” a source in ICC women’s cricket told Cricbuzz.

The Sharia law could dismantle the women's cricket team of Afghanistan and affecting the full membership status with ICC.&nbsp;

The ICC has a policy that a full member of the board should have a men's and women's team and not having a women's team could cost Afghanistan the full membership that they attained in 2017.&nbsp;

However, Afghanistan Cricket Board's Shafiqullah Stanikzai is optimistic about the growth of cricket.&nbsp;

“Cricket in Afghanistan began from refugee camps and we have come a long way. With very limited resources, we climbed our way up to full membership. I hope and pray that cricket in Afghanistan continues to grow. For us, it is beyond a sport, a game. Cricket has given us an identity making the image of Afghans around the world optimistic. Through cricket, we convinced the global community to invest in our talent and in Afghan youth. I hope this continues,” Stanikzai told Cricbuzz.

With the Taliban seizing power in Afghanistan, the fate of women in the nation has become a major concern. Taliban rule is based on Sharia Laws, which would have a negative influence on women's rights in the country.

With the Taliban seizing power in Afghanistan, the fate of women in the nation has become a major concern. Taliban rule is based on Sharia Laws, which would have a negative influence on women's rights in the country. ALSO READ: 'Virat Kohli is the most foul mouthed individual', tweets former England cricketer; later deletes it The International Cricket Council (ICC) is also taking a close look at the situation in Afghanistan and tracking the potential changes in Afghanistan’s women’s cricket. According to a report in CricBuzz, the ICC HQ in Abu Dhabi are in contact with Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) in Kabul to try and “fully understand the impact of changes” in the country. “That was a massive development. We don’t know what now,” a source in ICC women’s cricket told Cricbuzz. The Sharia law could dismantle the women's cricket team of Afghanistan and affecting the full membership status with ICC. The ICC has a policy that a full member of the board should have a men's and women's team and not having a women's team could cost Afghanistan the full membership that they attained in 2017. However, Afghanistan Cricket Board's Shafiqullah Stanikzai is optimistic about the growth of cricket. “Cricket in Afghanistan began from refugee camps and we have come a long way. With very limited resources, we climbed our way up to full membership. I hope and pray that cricket in Afghanistan continues to grow. For us, it is beyond a sport, a game. Cricket has given us an identity making the image of Afghans around the world optimistic. Through cricket, we convinced the global community to invest in our talent and in Afghan youth. I hope this continues,” Stanikzai told Cricbuzz.

After Taliban takeover, can Afghan Cricket Board lose ICC's full membership?

The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Tuesday (August 17) announced the schedule of the Men's T20 World Cup 2021 as the high-octane event will get underway from 17 October. The final clash will be in Dubai on November 14 and a reserve day is also kept aside on November 15.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-coach-grumpy-justin-langers-leadership-under-spotlight-406529" hreflang="en">Cricket - 'Coach Grumpy': Justin Langer's leadership under spotlight</a>

Cricket Australia has now announced its squad and all their first-choice players who missed the recent tours of West Indies and Bangladesh will be returning for the coveted tournament.&nbsp;

The team will be led by Aaron Finch, who is currrently recovering after knee surgery. Aussie wicketkeeper Josh Inglis also earned his maiden call-up.&nbsp;

Inglis performed prolifically in the Vitality Blast. "Josh has been on our radar for some time with his performances in white ball cricket and more recently in the Vitality Blast where he topped the run charts," chairman of selectors George Bailey said. "He offers the squad flexibility in the batting order with his adaptability, counterattacking ability and power striking. He is a player we are excited about for the future."

Inglis scored 531 runs at an average of 48.27 in the Vitality Blast for Leicestershire. He scored two centuries in the tournament.

Cricketing stars like Steve Smith, David Warner will also be a part of the team.&nbsp;

<h2>Squad</h2>

Aaron Finch (capt), David Warner, Steve Smith, Glenn Maxwell, Mitchell Marsh, Matthew Wade, Ashton Agar, Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, Kane Richardson, Adam Zampa, Josh Hazlewood, Marcus Stoinis, Mitchell Swepson, Josh Inglis 
Travelling reserves: Dan Christian, Nathan Ellis, Daniel Sams

The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Tuesday (August 17) announced the schedule of the Men's T20 World Cup 2021 as the high-octane event will get underway from 17 October.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Tuesday (August 17) announced the schedule of the Men's T20 World Cup 2021 as the high-octane event will get underway from 17 October. The final clash will be in Dubai on November 14 and a reserve day is also kept aside on November 15. ALSO READ: Cricket - 'Coach Grumpy': Justin Langer's leadership under spotlight Cricket Australia has now announced its squad and all their first-choice players who missed the recent tours of West Indies and Bangladesh will be returning for the coveted tournament. The team will be led by Aaron Finch, who is currrently recovering after knee surgery. Aussie wicketkeeper Josh Inglis also earned his maiden call-up. Inglis performed prolifically in the Vitality Blast. "Josh has been on our radar for some time with his performances in white ball cricket and more recently in the Vitality Blast where he topped the run charts," chairman of selectors George Bailey said. "He offers the squad flexibility in the batting order with his adaptability, counterattacking ability and power striking. He is a player we are excited about for the future." Inglis scored 531 runs at an average of 48.27 in the Vitality Blast for Leicestershire. He scored two centuries in the tournament. Cricketing stars like Steve Smith, David Warner will also be a part of the team. Squad Aaron Finch (capt), David Warner, Steve Smith, Glenn Maxwell, Mitchell Marsh, Matthew Wade, Ashton Agar, Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, Kane Richardson, Adam Zampa, Josh Hazlewood, Marcus Stoinis, Mitchell Swepson, Josh Inglis Travelling reserves: Dan Christian, Nathan Ellis, Daniel Sams

Cricket - Cricket Australia announce their squad for ICC T20 World Cup

Given the COVID-19 situation across the globe, the International Cricket Council (ICC) has announced the number of players and officials that the participating countries will be allowed to bring in for the upcoming T20 World Cup in UAE.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-rohit-sharmas-epic-gesture-to-a-journalist-during-press-conference-goes-viral-watch-405231" hreflang="en">Cricket: Rohit Sharma's epic gesture to a journalist during press conference goes viral - WATCH</a>

As per an official at the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), the ICC has set September 10 as the deadline for all countries taking part in the T20 World Cup to give the final list of 15 players and 8 officials.&nbsp;

"The ICC has also allowed all participating nations to bring additional players with their squads because of the COVID-19 situation and bio-secure bubble but the concerned boards will have to bear the costs of these additional players," he told PTI.

"The ICC bears the expenses of only 15 players and eight officials.'

The tournament will be held in Oman and UAE. It will be played between October 17 to November 14.&nbsp;

"It is now up to the boards to decide how many additional players they want to have with their main squads given the COVID-19 situation because if any player tests positive or they are injury issues, the teams can take replacements from their additional players."

According to the ICC, the countries can make last-minute changes in their squads until five days before the quarantine period for teams begins.

"But the boards have to send their squads by 10th September."

(Inputs from agency)

Given the COVID-19 situation across the globe, the International Cricket Council (ICC) has announced the number of players and officials that the participating countries will be allowed to bring in for the upcoming T20 World Cup in UAE.

Given the COVID-19 situation across the globe, the International Cricket Council (ICC) has announced the number of players and officials that the participating countries will be allowed to bring in for the upcoming T20 World Cup in UAE. ALSO READ: Cricket: Rohit Sharma's epic gesture to a journalist during press conference goes viral - WATCH As per an official at the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), the ICC has set September 10 as the deadline for all countries taking part in the T20 World Cup to give the final list of 15 players and 8 officials. "The ICC has also allowed all participating nations to bring additional players with their squads because of the COVID-19 situation and bio-secure bubble but the concerned boards will have to bear the costs of these additional players," he told PTI. "The ICC bears the expenses of only 15 players and eight officials.' The tournament will be held in Oman and UAE. It will be played between October 17 to November 14. "It is now up to the boards to decide how many additional players they want to have with their main squads given the COVID-19 situation because if any player tests positive or they are injury issues, the teams can take replacements from their additional players." According to the ICC, the countries can make last-minute changes in their squads until five days before the quarantine period for teams begins. "But the boards have to send their squads by 10th September." (Inputs from agency)

ICC allows participating nations to bring 15 players, 8 officials for T20 World Cup

England captain Joe Root and India fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah have advanced in the&nbsp;ICC Men’s Test Player Rankings after fine performances in the opening match of their ICC World Test Championship series in Nottingham.

Root, top-ranked in the past, has overtaken counterpart Virat Kohli to the fourth position in the batters’ list after his Player of the Match performance of 64 and 109 earned him 49 rating points. Bumrah has galloped 10 slots to return to the top 10 for bowlers with a match haul of nine for 110.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-jasprit-bumrah-has-got-amazing-skills-a-world-class-bowler-says-jonny-bairstow-404573" hreflang="en">Cricket: 'Jasprit Bumrah has got amazing skills, a world-class bowler,' says Jonny Bairstow</a>

Bumrah, who held a career-high third position in September 2019, is now ranked ninth.

Seam bowlers James Anderson (up to one place to seventh) and Ollie Robinson (up 22 places to 46th) of England and Shardul Thakur (up 19 places to 55th) of India have also moved up in the latest men’s weekly rankings update, carried out on Wednesdays.

India all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja has progressed three slots to 36th among batters with a first-innings half-century and opener Lokesh Rahul has re-entered the rankings in 56th position with scores of 84 and 26. England opener Dom Sibley is up to four places to 52nd.

In the ICC Men’s T20I Player Rankings, Bangladesh’s Shakib Al Hasan has regained the top spot among all-rounders, having last reached that position last in October 2017. He has also gained three slots to reach 53rd among batters and advanced six slots to reach 12th position among bowlers. Captain Mahmud Ullah has gained two slots and is now in the 33rd position.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-it-will-be-great-to-see-cricket-as-an-olympic-sport-says-joe-root-404574" hreflang="en">Cricket: It will be great to see cricket as an Olympic sport, says Joe Root</a>

Australia all-rounder Mitchell Marsh has gained four slots to reach 21st position among batters after aggregating 111 runs in the last four matches of the five-match series in Bangladesh, played over the last week.

Left-arm spinner Ashton Agar has gained one slot to reach seventh place among bowlers while fast bowler Josh Hazlewood is up 43 places to 34th position.

England captain Joe Root and India fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah have advanced in the ICC Men’s Test Player Rankings after fine performances in the opening match of their ICC World Test Championship series in Nottingham.

England captain Joe Root and India fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah have advanced in the ICC Men’s Test Player Rankings after fine performances in the opening match of their ICC World Test Championship series in Nottingham. Root, top-ranked in the past, has overtaken counterpart Virat Kohli to the fourth position in the batters’ list after his Player of the Match performance of 64 and 109 earned him 49 rating points. Bumrah has galloped 10 slots to return to the top 10 for bowlers with a match haul of nine for 110. ALSO READ: Cricket: 'Jasprit Bumrah has got amazing skills, a world-class bowler,' says Jonny Bairstow Bumrah, who held a career-high third position in September 2019, is now ranked ninth. Seam bowlers James Anderson (up to one place to seventh) and Ollie Robinson (up 22 places to 46th) of England and Shardul Thakur (up 19 places to 55th) of India have also moved up in the latest men’s weekly rankings update, carried out on Wednesdays. India all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja has progressed three slots to 36th among batters with a first-innings half-century and opener Lokesh Rahul has re-entered the rankings in 56th position with scores of 84 and 26. England opener Dom Sibley is up to four places to 52nd. In the ICC Men’s T20I Player Rankings, Bangladesh’s Shakib Al Hasan has regained the top spot among all-rounders, having last reached that position last in October 2017. He has also gained three slots to reach 53rd among batters and advanced six slots to reach 12th position among bowlers. Captain Mahmud Ullah has gained two slots and is now in the 33rd position. ALSO READ: Cricket: It will be great to see cricket as an Olympic sport, says Joe Root Australia all-rounder Mitchell Marsh has gained four slots to reach 21st position among batters after aggregating 111 runs in the last four matches of the five-match series in Bangladesh, played over the last week. Left-arm spinner Ashton Agar has gained one slot to reach seventh place among bowlers while fast bowler Josh Hazlewood is up 43 places to 34th position.

Cricket: Jasprit Burmah and Joe Root move up in the ICC Men's Test player rankings

England and India on Wednesday were fined 40 per cent of their match fees and penalised two ICC World Test Championship points each for maintaining slow over-rates in the first Test in Nottingham.

Chris Broad of the ICC Elite Panel of Match Referees imposed the sanctions after both sides were ruled to be two overs short of their targets after time allowances were taken into consideration.

In accordance with Article 2.22 of the ICC Code of Conduct for Players and Player Support Personnel, which relates to minimum over-rate offences, players are fined 20 per cent of their match fees for every over their side fails to bowl in the allotted time.

In addition, as per Article 16.11.2 of the ICC World Test Championship playing conditions, a side is penalised one point for each over short.

Captains Joe Root and Virat Kohli pleaded guilty and accepted the proposed sanctions, so there was no need for formal hearings.

On-field umpires Michael Gough and Richard Kettleborough, third umpire Richard Illingworth and fourth umpire David Millns levelled the charges.

The first Test between India and England ended in a draw after rain played spoilsport on the final day of the Test. The visitors looked set for victory, needing 157 runs to win on the final day, with nine wickets in hand, but the weather gods had something else in mind.

England and India will now lock horns in the second Test beginning Thursday at the Lord`s Cricket Ground.&nbsp;

England and India on Wednesday were fined 40 per cent of their match fees and penalised two ICC World Test Championship points each for maintaining slow over-rates in the first Test in Nottingham.

England and India on Wednesday were fined 40 per cent of their match fees and penalised two ICC World Test Championship points each for maintaining slow over-rates in the first Test in Nottingham. Chris Broad of the ICC Elite Panel of Match Referees imposed the sanctions after both sides were ruled to be two overs short of their targets after time allowances were taken into consideration. In accordance with Article 2.22 of the ICC Code of Conduct for Players and Player Support Personnel, which relates to minimum over-rate offences, players are fined 20 per cent of their match fees for every over their side fails to bowl in the allotted time. In addition, as per Article 16.11.2 of the ICC World Test Championship playing conditions, a side is penalised one point for each over short. Captains Joe Root and Virat Kohli pleaded guilty and accepted the proposed sanctions, so there was no need for formal hearings. On-field umpires Michael Gough and Richard Kettleborough, third umpire Richard Illingworth and fourth umpire David Millns levelled the charges. The first Test between India and England ended in a draw after rain played spoilsport on the final day of the Test. The visitors looked set for victory, needing 157 runs to win on the final day, with nine wickets in hand, but the weather gods had something else in mind. England and India will now lock horns in the second Test beginning Thursday at the Lord`s Cricket Ground.

Cricket - India, England docked WTC points for slow over-rate in 1st Test

The International Cricket Council confirmed its intention to bid for cricket’s inclusion in the Olympic Games. The ICC has convened a Working Group to lead the bid on behalf of the sport which will be focused on cricket becoming part of the Olympic family for LA 2028, Brisbane 2032, and beyond.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-new-zealand-announces-squad-for-t20-world-cup-and-bangladesh-pakistan-tours-404381" hreflang="en">Cricket: New Zealand announces squad for T20 World Cup and Bangladesh, Pakistan tours</a>

“Our sport is united behind this bid, and we see the Olympics as a part of cricket’s long-term future. We have more than a billion fans globally and almost 90 percent of them want to see cricket at the Olympics," said ICC Chair Greg Barclay.

“We believe cricket would be a great addition to the Olympic Games, but we know it won’t be easy to secure our inclusion as there are so many other great sports out there wanting to do the same. But we feel now is the time to put our best foot forward and show what a great partnership cricket and the Olympics could be,” he added.

Here is how Twitter is reacting to ICC's ambition for Olympics:

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-windies-recall-shamarh-brooks-chemar-holder-for-test-series-against-pakistan-404343" hreflang="en">Cricket: Windies recall Shamarh Brooks, Chemar Holder for Test series against Pakistan</a>

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I think this will do massive wonders especially to Women's cricket Team. 
Because in Olympics Gold toh Gold hota he. 
Men win it or women win it.
— Paras (@Paras_Touchston) <a href="https://twitter.com/Paras_Touchston/status/1424993990751887364?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 10, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Rishabh Pant to lead India to the podium! Hope it’s gold! <a href="https://t.co/lRNb1xYIVB">https://t.co/lRNb1xYIVB</a>
— Sourav Sinha (@sourav_sinha) <a href="https://twitter.com/sourav_sinha/status/1424995595186589699?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 10, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Imagine India sending 3 teams and getting gold and silver 💀 <a href="https://t.co/EWPplSvu4F">https://t.co/EWPplSvu4F</a>
— Venkat (@__veebee31) <a href="https://twitter.com/__veebee31/status/1424985415405109250?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 10, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Hope 40-year Virat Kohli can get us Gold 🥇 <a href="https://t.co/V2KFWQqqY0">https://t.co/V2KFWQqqY0</a>
— Trendulkar (@Trendulkar) <a href="https://twitter.com/Trendulkar/status/1424987555552907266?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 10, 2021</a></blockquote>
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This needs a big push and should be the top most priority of ICC if they want to take Cricket forward! <a href="https://t.co/6qG1urxWaJ">https://t.co/6qG1urxWaJ</a>
— Shivam Maheshwari (@shivam_mah90) <a href="https://twitter.com/shivam_mah90/status/1424991941314236416?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 10, 2021</a></blockquote>
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A welcome effort by the <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ICC</a> for the inclusion of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Cricket?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Cricket</a> at <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/losAngeles2028?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#losAngeles2028</a>. It would be a real step by the <a href="https://twitter.com/iocmedia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@iocmedia</a> to truly modernising the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Olympics?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Olympics</a> &amp; would grow much needed viewership. 
I'd also add <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Netball?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Netball</a> too while they're at it. <a href="https://t.co/9hshnLXSYa">https://t.co/9hshnLXSYa</a> <a href="https://t.co/6TFfeTOwa2">pic.twitter.com/6TFfeTOwa2</a>
— Barry O’Farrell AO (@AusHCIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/AusHCIndia/status/1425001874193747968?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 10, 2021</a></blockquote>
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I want them to make <a href="https://twitter.com/thehundred?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@thehundred</a> the official format. The Americans would love the 100 ball concept <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Olympics?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Olympics</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/OlympicGames?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#OlympicGames</a> <a href="https://t.co/yqoPgTvrK7">https://t.co/yqoPgTvrK7</a>
— Monty Panesar (@MontyPanesar) <a href="https://twitter.com/MontyPanesar/status/1424986604880474143?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 10, 2021</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

The International Cricket Council confirmed its intention to bid for cricket’s inclusion in the Olympic Games. The ICC has convened a Working Group to lead the bid on behalf of the sport which will be focused on cricket becoming part of the Olympic family for LA 2028, Brisbane 2032, and beyond.

The International Cricket Council confirmed its intention to bid for cricket’s inclusion in the Olympic Games. The ICC has convened a Working Group to lead the bid on behalf of the sport which will be focused on cricket becoming part of the Olympic family for LA 2028, Brisbane 2032, and beyond. ALSO READ: Cricket: New Zealand announces squad for T20 World Cup and Bangladesh, Pakistan tours “Our sport is united behind this bid, and we see the Olympics as a part of cricket’s long-term future. We have more than a billion fans globally and almost 90 percent of them want to see cricket at the Olympics," said ICC Chair Greg Barclay. “We believe cricket would be a great addition to the Olympic Games, but we know it won’t be easy to secure our inclusion as there are so many other great sports out there wanting to do the same. But we feel now is the time to put our best foot forward and show what a great partnership cricket and the Olympics could be,” he added. Here is how Twitter is reacting to ICC's ambition for Olympics: ALSO READ: Cricket: Windies recall Shamarh Brooks, Chemar Holder for Test series against Pakistan I think this will do massive wonders especially to Women's cricket Team. Because in Olympics Gold toh Gold hota he. Men win it or women win it. — Paras (@Paras_Touchston) August 10, 2021 × Rishabh Pant to lead India to the podium! Hope it’s gold! https://t.co/lRNb1xYIVB — Sourav Sinha (@sourav_sinha) August 10, 2021 × Imagine India sending 3 teams and getting gold and silver 💀 https://t.co/EWPplSvu4F — Venkat (@__veebee31) August 10, 2021 × Hope 40-year Virat Kohli can get us Gold 🥇 https://t.co/V2KFWQqqY0 — Trendulkar (@Trendulkar) August 10, 2021 × This needs a big push and should be the top most priority of ICC if they want to take Cricket forward! https://t.co/6qG1urxWaJ — Shivam Maheshwari (@shivam_mah90) August 10, 2021 × A welcome effort by the @ICC for the inclusion of #Cricket at #losAngeles2028. It would be a real step by the @iocmedia to truly modernising the #Olympics & would grow much needed viewership. I'd also add #Netball too while they're at it. https://t.co/9hshnLXSYa pic.twitter.com/6TFfeTOwa2 — Barry O’Farrell AO (@AusHCIndia) August 10, 2021 × I want them to make @thehundred the official format. The Americans would love the 100 ball concept #Olympics #OlympicGames https://t.co/yqoPgTvrK7 — Monty Panesar (@MontyPanesar) August 10, 2021 ×

'This will do massive wonders': Netizens happy as ICC confirms cricket's Olympic ambition

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has confirmed its "intention" to push for cricket's inclusion in the Olympic Games. As per the official site of ICC, preparations have started for a bid on behalf of the sport, with the primary target being its addition to the Los Angeles 2028.&nbsp;

The ICC also informed that a Working Group to lead the bid has been assembled.&nbsp;

IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-bhavani-devis-efforts-to-neeraj-chopras-gold-historic-firsts-and-some-shining-moments-of-india-at-tokyo-olympics-404251">Historic firsts and some shining moments of India at Tokyo Olympics</a>

The inclusion of cricket in the Olympics would be a game-changer considering the expected expansion of the game globally; it will also take the sport to a different level.&nbsp;

For a long time, there have been talks over cricket's inclusion in Olympic Games as the ICC and the International Olympic Committee (IOC) have courted for it in the past.&nbsp;

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ICC can confirm its intention to push for cricket's inclusion in the <a href="https://twitter.com/Olympics?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Olympics</a>, with the 2028 Games in Los Angeles being the primary target. 
 
More details 👇
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1424975729729499137?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 10, 2021</a></blockquote>
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ICC Chair Greg Barclay said the addition of cricket to the Olympic Games would be beneficial to both the sport and the Games themselves.&nbsp;

"Firstly on behalf of everyone at the ICC, I would like to congratulate the IOC, Tokyo 2020, and the people of Japan for staging such an incredible Games in such difficult circumstances. It truly was fantastic to watch and captured the imagination of the world and we would love for cricket to be a part of future Games," Barclay said as quoted by the ICC site.&nbsp;

He further added, "Clearly cricket has a strong and passionate fanbase, particularly in South Asia where 92% of our fans come from whilst there are also 30 million cricket fans in the USA. The opportunity for those fans to see their heroes competing for an Olympic medal is tantalising."

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has confirmed its "intention" to push for cricket's inclusion in the Olympic Games. As per the official site of ICC, preparations have started for a bid on behalf of the sport, with the primary target being its addition to the Los Angeles 2028.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has confirmed its "intention" to push for cricket's inclusion in the Olympic Games. As per the official site of ICC, preparations have started for a bid on behalf of the sport, with the primary target being its addition to the Los Angeles 2028. The ICC also informed that a Working Group to lead the bid has been assembled. IN PICS | Historic firsts and some shining moments of India at Tokyo Olympics The inclusion of cricket in the Olympics would be a game-changer considering the expected expansion of the game globally; it will also take the sport to a different level. For a long time, there have been talks over cricket's inclusion in Olympic Games as the ICC and the International Olympic Committee (IOC) have courted for it in the past. ICC can confirm its intention to push for cricket's inclusion in the @Olympics, with the 2028 Games in Los Angeles being the primary target. More details 👇 — ICC (@ICC) August 10, 2021 × ICC Chair Greg Barclay said the addition of cricket to the Olympic Games would be beneficial to both the sport and the Games themselves. "Firstly on behalf of everyone at the ICC, I would like to congratulate the IOC, Tokyo 2020, and the people of Japan for staging such an incredible Games in such difficult circumstances. It truly was fantastic to watch and captured the imagination of the world and we would love for cricket to be a part of future Games," Barclay said as quoted by the ICC site. He further added, "Clearly cricket has a strong and passionate fanbase, particularly in South Asia where 92% of our fans come from whilst there are also 30 million cricket fans in the USA. The opportunity for those fans to see their heroes competing for an Olympic medal is tantalising."

Cricket in Olympics? ICC confirms 'intention' to push game's inclusion in Games

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