Cricket South Africa (CSA) on Sunday congratulated Proteas trio -- Dale Steyn, AB de Villiers and Imran Tahir -- as well as pair Dane van Niekerk and Marizanne Kapp for being included by the International Cricket Council (ICC) in its Teams of the Decade.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-announces-team-of-the-decade-virat-kohli-features-in-all-formats-352731" hreflang="en">ICC announces 'Team of the Decade', Virat Kohli features in all formats</a>

The players were identified and selected by the ICC`s specialist voting academy comprising prominent cricket journalists, broadcasters and former players from around the world.

Former South Africa top-order batsman De Villiers, widely regarded as one of the greatest players to have ever played limited-overs cricket, was named in both the ODI and T20I Teams of the Decade.

Leg-spinner Imran Tahir, a player that played all 107 of his ODIs in the 2010s claiming an impressive 173 wickets in that period, was picked alongside De Villiers in the 50-over team.

Pacer Steyn, who retired from red-ball cricket last season as the country`s all-time leading wicket-taker with 439 strikes, was named in the Test Team of the Decade.

Proteas captain Dane van Niekerk and her all-rounder team-mate Marizanne Kapp, meanwhile, were selected in the Women`s ODI Team of the Decade.

"Having our players being selected in these teams is an incredible honour. It is also a massive feather in their caps and speaks about the immense contribution they have made to cricket not just domestically, but on a global stage," CSA Director of Cricket, Graeme Smith said in a statement.

"Their inclusions also speak of their consistency and their class as individuals. They have performed impeccably year in and year out for South Africa and we are very proud of them. We at CSA would therefore like to like to congratulate AB, Dale, Immi (Tahir), Dane and Marizanne," he added.

Smith also had special words of praise for the two women`s players that made the cut."We have seen the women`s game evolve at a rapid rate in the last three or four years. Players like Dane and Marizanne have been at the forefront of that evolution and their recognition by the ICC is testament to their efforts," he said.

The ICC Awards of the Decade is a one-off edition of the annual awards programme, aimed at celebrating the stand-out performers and moments from the past ten years of international cricket. (ANI)

Cricket South Africa (CSA) on Sunday congratulated Proteas trio -- Dale Steyn, AB de Villiers and Imran Tahir -- as well as pair Dane van Niekerk and Marizanne Kapp for being included by the International Cricket Council (ICC) in its Teams of the Decade.

Cricket South Africa (CSA) on Sunday congratulated Proteas trio -- Dale Steyn, AB de Villiers and Imran Tahir -- as well as pair Dane van Niekerk and Marizanne Kapp for being included by the International Cricket Council (ICC) in its Teams of the Decade. Also read: ICC announces 'Team of the Decade', Virat Kohli features in all formats The players were identified and selected by the ICC`s specialist voting academy comprising prominent cricket journalists, broadcasters and former players from around the world. Former South Africa top-order batsman De Villiers, widely regarded as one of the greatest players to have ever played limited-overs cricket, was named in both the ODI and T20I Teams of the Decade. Leg-spinner Imran Tahir, a player that played all 107 of his ODIs in the 2010s claiming an impressive 173 wickets in that period, was picked alongside De Villiers in the 50-over team. Pacer Steyn, who retired from red-ball cricket last season as the country`s all-time leading wicket-taker with 439 strikes, was named in the Test Team of the Decade. Proteas captain Dane van Niekerk and her all-rounder team-mate Marizanne Kapp, meanwhile, were selected in the Women`s ODI Team of the Decade. "Having our players being selected in these teams is an incredible honour. It is also a massive feather in their caps and speaks about the immense contribution they have made to cricket not just domestically, but on a global stage," CSA Director of Cricket, Graeme Smith said in a statement. "Their inclusions also speak of their consistency and their class as individuals. They have performed impeccably year in and year out for South Africa and we are very proud of them. We at CSA would therefore like to like to congratulate AB, Dale, Immi (Tahir), Dane and Marizanne," he added. Smith also had special words of praise for the two women`s players that made the cut."We have seen the women`s game evolve at a rapid rate in the last three or four years. Players like Dane and Marizanne have been at the forefront of that evolution and their recognition by the ICC is testament to their efforts," he said. The ICC Awards of the Decade is a one-off edition of the annual awards programme, aimed at celebrating the stand-out performers and moments from the past ten years of international cricket. (ANI)

CSA congratulates Steyn, De Villiers, Tahir on ICC Team of the Decade selections

The International Cricket Council (ICC) released their 'Team of the Decade' in all formats. These teams featured players who have performed extremely well for their country in the respective format.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) released their 'Team of the Decade' in all formats. These teams featured players who have performed extremely well for their country in the respective format. In the men's category, here's the 'Team of the Decade' in all formats: ICC Men's Test Team of the Decade: Alastair Cook (ENG), David Warner (AUS), Kane Williamson (NZ), Virat Kohli (IND), Steve Smith (AUS), Kumar Sangakkara (SL), Ben Stokes (ENG), Ravichandran Ashwin (IND), Dale Steyn (SA), Stuart Broad (ENG), James Anderson (ENG) Captain: Virat Kohli Wicket Keeper: Kumar Sangakkara ICC Men's ODI Team of the Decade: Rohit Sharma (IND), David Warner (AUS), Virat Kohli (IND), AB de Villiers (SA), Shakib Al Hasan (BAN), MS Dhoni (IND), Ben Stokes (ENG), Mitchell Starc (AUS), Trent Boult (NZ), Imran Tahir (SA), Lasith Malinga (SL) Wicket Keeper/Captain: MS Dhoni ICC Men's T20I Team of the Decade: Rohit Sharma (IND), Chris Gayle (WI), Aaron Finch (AUS), Virat Kohli (IND), AB de Villiers (SA), Glenn Maxwell (AUS), MS Dhoni (IND), Kieron Pollard (WI), Rashid Khan (AFG), Jasprit Bumrah (IND), Lasith Malinga (SL) Wicket Keeper/Captain: MS Dhoni Indian skipper Virat Kohli was the only player to feature in all three formats of 'Team of the Decade'. In the women's category, here's the 'Team of the Decades': ICC Women's T20I Team of the Decade: Alyssa Healy (AUS), Sophie Devine (NZ), Suzie Bates (NZ), Meg Lanning (AUS), Harmanpreet Kaur (IND), Stafanie Taylor (WI), Deandra Dottin (WI), Ellyse Perry (AUS), Anya Shrubsole (ENG), Megan Schutt (AUS), Poonam Yadav (IND) Captain: Meg Lanning Wicket Keeper: Alyssa Healy ICC Women's ODI Team of the Decade: Alyssa Healy (AUS), Suzie Bates (NZ), Mithali Raj (IND), Meg Lanning (AUS), Stafani Taylor (WI), Sarah Taylor (ENG), Ellyse Perry (AUS), Dane Van Niekerk (SA), Marizanne Kapp (SA), Jhulan Goswami (IND), Anisa Mohammed (WI) Captain: Meg Lanning Wicket Keeper: Sarah Taylor The rest of the #ICCAwards of the Decade will be announced 8.30 AM GMT tomorrow! That's all for today, folks! Take a breather 😅 pic.twitter.com/M3FUgqKZUi — ICC (@ICC) December 27, 2020 × Individual awards will be announced on December 28, 2020.

ICC announces 'Team of the Decade', Virat Kohli features in all formats

KL Rahul and Virat Kohli witnessed a jump in their ranks after a successful T20I series against hosts Australia. Both batsmen made significant gains in the latest International Cricket Council (ICC) Men's T20I Player Rankings.

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Team India won the T20I series 2-1 against the Aussies. Kohli and Rahul were the most consistent in the India lineup. Kohli, who played a blistering knock of 85 in the final match of the T20I series has secured the eighth position in the recently released ICC Men's T20I batting rankings.&nbsp;

KL Rahul broke into the top 3 of T20I rankings after scoring 81 runs in the three-match opera against Australia. KL has had a successful run in the T20 format. He was the orange cap winner in this year's Indian Premier League.&nbsp;

Taking the third spot in the ICC Men's T20I batting rankings, Rahul has bagged 816 points and the premier batsman is only 55 points behind second-placed Babar Azam in the current standings. While England star batsman Dawid Malan (915 points) retained the top spot, Australian limited-overs skipper Finch slipped to the fourth spot in the T20I batting rankings. &nbsp;

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India had lost the third T20I by 12 runs on Tuesday but won the three-match series 2-1.&nbsp;

This was India’s first defeat in 12 T20Is for India with the last loss coming against the West Indies in Trivandrum in December 2019. The 12-run defeat to Australia also became India’s first away defeat in 11 matches since losing to New Zealand in Hamilton in February 2019.

The T20I series also marks the end to the limited-overs affair in India’s gruelling tour of Australia and both the teams will now focus on the four-match Test series, starting December 17.

KL Rahul and Virat Kohli witnessed a jump in their ranks after a successful T20I series against hosts Australia. Both batsmen made significant gains in the latest International Cricket Council (ICC) Men's T20I Player Rankings.

KL Rahul and Virat Kohli witnessed a jump in their ranks after a successful T20I series against hosts Australia. Both batsmen made significant gains in the latest International Cricket Council (ICC) Men's T20I Player Rankings. Also read: Virat Kohli hints at skipping pink-ball warm-up match against Australia A Team India won the T20I series 2-1 against the Aussies. Kohli and Rahul were the most consistent in the India lineup. Kohli, who played a blistering knock of 85 in the final match of the T20I series has secured the eighth position in the recently released ICC Men's T20I batting rankings. KL Rahul broke into the top 3 of T20I rankings after scoring 81 runs in the three-match opera against Australia. KL has had a successful run in the T20 format. He was the orange cap winner in this year's Indian Premier League. Taking the third spot in the ICC Men's T20I batting rankings, Rahul has bagged 816 points and the premier batsman is only 55 points behind second-placed Babar Azam in the current standings. While England star batsman Dawid Malan (915 points) retained the top spot, Australian limited-overs skipper Finch slipped to the fourth spot in the T20I batting rankings. Also read: Suresh Raina to return for IPL 2020/21 and Syed Mushtaq Ali India had lost the third T20I by 12 runs on Tuesday but won the three-match series 2-1. This was India’s first defeat in 12 T20Is for India with the last loss coming against the West Indies in Trivandrum in December 2019. The 12-run defeat to Australia also became India’s first away defeat in 11 matches since losing to New Zealand in Hamilton in February 2019. The T20I series also marks the end to the limited-overs affair in India’s gruelling tour of Australia and both the teams will now focus on the four-match Test series, starting December 17.

KL Rahul and Virat Kohli witness jump in ICC rankings after T20 series win

Australia's explosive all-rounder Glenn Maxwell has defended the 'switch hit' which met with Ian Chappell’s criticism, who expressed his reservation about the shot and called it 'unfair' while speaking to Wide World of Sports.&nbsp;

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However, Maxwell defended his signature shot and said that the shot is very much within the rules of the game.

"It is within the laws of the game. Batting has evolved in such a way, that it has got better and better over the years, which is why we see these massive scores are getting chased down and the scores are going up," Maxwell said when asked about Chappell’s comments after the ODI series which Australia won 2-1.

Maxwell perfectly executed the 'switch hit' shot during the series against India. The Aussie urged the bowlers to come up with a plan to combat it. "And I suppose it is up-to-the bowlers to try and combat that," he said. "I suppose the skills of bowlers have been tested every day with bowlers having to come up with different change-ups, different ways to stop batters."

Former Aussie spinner Shane Warne supported Chappell's thought about the switch hit, saying it gives the batsmen an 'unfair advantage'. But the all-rounder responded by saying: "We see guys come up with knuckle-balls and wide yorker fields and different tactics. And the tactics of ODI cricket have definitely evolved, so I just see it (switch hit) as a different part of the evolution of the game."

Australia's explosive all-rounder Glenn Maxwell has defended the 'switch hit' which met with Ian Chappell’s criticism, who expressed his reservation about the shot and called it 'unfair' while speaking to Wide World of Sports.

Australia's explosive all-rounder Glenn Maxwell has defended the 'switch hit' which met with Ian Chappell’s criticism, who expressed his reservation about the shot and called it 'unfair' while speaking to Wide World of Sports. Also read: Addition of 2 new IPL teams set to be approved at BCCI AGM: Reports However, Maxwell defended his signature shot and said that the shot is very much within the rules of the game. "It is within the laws of the game. Batting has evolved in such a way, that it has got better and better over the years, which is why we see these massive scores are getting chased down and the scores are going up," Maxwell said when asked about Chappell’s comments after the ODI series which Australia won 2-1. Maxwell perfectly executed the 'switch hit' shot during the series against India. The Aussie urged the bowlers to come up with a plan to combat it. "And I suppose it is up-to-the bowlers to try and combat that," he said. "I suppose the skills of bowlers have been tested every day with bowlers having to come up with different change-ups, different ways to stop batters." Former Aussie spinner Shane Warne supported Chappell's thought about the switch hit, saying it gives the batsmen an 'unfair advantage'. But the all-rounder responded by saying: "We see guys come up with knuckle-balls and wide yorker fields and different tactics. And the tactics of ODI cricket have definitely evolved, so I just see it (switch hit) as a different part of the evolution of the game."

Glenn Maxwell defends his signature 'switch shot' after Ian Chappell's criticism

The newly-appointed president of the International Cricket Council (ICC) Greg Barclay has promised to do his best to help India and Pakistan get on the same page when it comes to cricketing matters. However, Barclay remained realistic about the India-Pakistan cricket relation as he admitted that there are geopolitical issues at play.

After serving New Zealand Cricket (NZC) as the representative on board of the ICC, Barclay has taken over as chairman of the governing body. After closely witnessing differences between BCCI and PCB, he is willing to help the two boards get back in a healthy relationship in cricket matters.

"I would love nothing more than for India and Pakistan to be able to continue cricketing relations as they were previously. I am also enough of a realist to understand that there are geopolitical issues at play here. I think all we can do at the ICC is to continue to help and support in any way that we can to bring about outcomes that would see India and Pakistan in a position where they can play cricket regularly against each other and in their home territories.

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"Beyond that, I do not think I have the mandate or ability to influence the outcomes more than that. That is really being done at a level way beyond where we would be operating," he explained.

"Rest assured that from the cricketing point of view, we would love to get those countries back together again on a regular basis. The ICC will do whatever it can to help facilitate and support an outcome that might see that happen," he said.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-dont-think-hell-be-available-aaron-finch-on-david-warners-injury-346280" hreflang="en">'I don't think he'll be available': Aaron Finch on David Warner's injury</a>

The Indian government has time and time again cleared their stance that action that hurt the interest of the country must stop before from Pakistani side before India resumes bilateral cricket with the neighbouring country. This has resulted in India and Pakistan facing each other in only ICC or ACC events.

(With ANI inputs) 
&nbsp;

The newly-appointed president of the International Cricket Council (ICC) Greg Barclay has promised to do his best to help India and Pakistan get on the same page when it comes to cricketing matters.

The newly-appointed president of the International Cricket Council (ICC) Greg Barclay has promised to do his best to help India and Pakistan get on the same page when it comes to cricketing matters. However, Barclay remained realistic about the India-Pakistan cricket relation as he admitted that there are geopolitical issues at play. After serving New Zealand Cricket (NZC) as the representative on board of the ICC, Barclay has taken over as chairman of the governing body. After closely witnessing differences between BCCI and PCB, he is willing to help the two boards get back in a healthy relationship in cricket matters. "I would love nothing more than for India and Pakistan to be able to continue cricketing relations as they were previously. I am also enough of a realist to understand that there are geopolitical issues at play here. I think all we can do at the ICC is to continue to help and support in any way that we can to bring about outcomes that would see India and Pakistan in a position where they can play cricket regularly against each other and in their home territories. ALSO READ: Ind vs Aus: Batting with more finesse now and it's working, says Smith "Beyond that, I do not think I have the mandate or ability to influence the outcomes more than that. That is really being done at a level way beyond where we would be operating," he explained. "Rest assured that from the cricketing point of view, we would love to get those countries back together again on a regular basis. The ICC will do whatever it can to help facilitate and support an outcome that might see that happen," he said. ALSO READ: 'I don't think he'll be available': Aaron Finch on David Warner's injury The Indian government has time and time again cleared their stance that action that hurt the interest of the country must stop before from Pakistani side before India resumes bilateral cricket with the neighbouring country. This has resulted in India and Pakistan facing each other in only ICC or ACC events. (With ANI inputs)

ICC doesn't have authority to influence India vs Pakistan bilateral ties: Greg Barclay

New points system set by ICC for the World Test Championship has pushed India to the second position. Despite dominating the majority of the campaign, Australia toppled Virat and Co.&nbsp;

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Now in the revised standings, Australia (296 points from 3 series) toppled India (360 points from 4 series) in the standing with a percentage of 82.22 compared to the latter’s 75 per cent.

Indian skipper Virat Kohli was upset due to change in the pointing system. He said the change was "confusing" and the governing body has a lot to explain.

According to Kohli, the decision was "surprising" and "difficult" to comprehend.&nbsp;

"It is definitely surprising because we were told that points are a matter of contention for the top two teams qualifying in World Test championships and now suddenly it has become percentage out of nowhere, so it is confusing and difficult to understand why," Kohli said during a video conference ahead of the first ODI against Australia.

"... if these things were explained to us from day one then it would have been easier to understand the reason why such a change has happened.

"But it happened out of nowhere and I think further questions need to be asked to the ICC to understand why this has been done and what are the reasons behind it."

Kohli and Co. were off to a forgettable start after losing the opening One Day International against Australia.&nbsp;

New points system set by ICC for the World Test Championship has pushed India to the second position. Despite dominating the majority of the campaign, Australia toppled Virat and Co.

New points system set by ICC for the World Test Championship has pushed India to the second position. Despite dominating the majority of the campaign, Australia toppled Virat and Co. Also read: IND vs AUS 1st ODI: Adam Gilchrist apologizes after a goof up during commentating Now in the revised standings, Australia (296 points from 3 series) toppled India (360 points from 4 series) in the standing with a percentage of 82.22 compared to the latter’s 75 per cent. Indian skipper Virat Kohli was upset due to change in the pointing system. He said the change was "confusing" and the governing body has a lot to explain. According to Kohli, the decision was "surprising" and "difficult" to comprehend. "It is definitely surprising because we were told that points are a matter of contention for the top two teams qualifying in World Test championships and now suddenly it has become percentage out of nowhere, so it is confusing and difficult to understand why," Kohli said during a video conference ahead of the first ODI against Australia. "... if these things were explained to us from day one then it would have been easier to understand the reason why such a change has happened. "But it happened out of nowhere and I think further questions need to be asked to the ICC to understand why this has been done and what are the reasons behind it." Kohli and Co. were off to a forgettable start after losing the opening One Day International against Australia.

Virat Kohli says the new WTC pointing system is 'difficult' to comprehend

India’s Virat Kohli and Ravichandran Ashwin have been nominated for the coveted ICC Men’s Player of the Decade Award with Indian captain Kohli featuring in all five men’s categories of ICC Awards of the Decade&nbsp;for his breathtaking run on the field in the last decade.

Kohli and veteran spinner Ashwin are the two Indian players alongside seven overseas players nominated for the most prestigious award by the ICC.

Along with Kohl and Ashwin, Joe Root (England), Kane Williamson (New Zealand), Steve Smith (Australia), AB de Villiers (South Africa), and Kumar Sangakkara (Sri Lanka) are the other players nominated in the ICC Men’s Player of the Decade award.

In the Men’s ODI Player of the Decade Award, former Indian cricketer Mahendra Singh Dhoni, Rohit Sharma, Kohli, Lasith Malinga (Sri Lanka), Mitchell Starc (Australia), de Villiers and Sangakkara have been nominated.

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Kohli and Rohit were also named in the Men’s T20I Player of the Decade category which consists the likes of Rashid Khan (Afghanistan), Imran Tahir (South Africa), Aaron Finch (Australia), Malinga and Chris Gayle (West Indies).

Furthermore, Kohli has also been nominated in the Men’s Test Player of the Decade and ICC Spirit of Cricket Award of the Decade categories.&nbsp;

Kohli has already scored 70 international centuries and is just one behind Ricky Ponting (71) And Sachin Tendulkar (100). He is also behind the iconic duo of Ponting and Tendulkar in the list of leading run-scorers of all-time with 21,444 runs under his belt.&nbsp;

In the last decade, Kohli scored over 7000 runs in Test cricket whereas, in ODIs, he amassed more than 11000 runs and over 2600 in T20s.

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Soon... 👀 <a href="https://t.co/9zO6mmw9o8">pic.twitter.com/9zO6mmw9o8</a>
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ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-aus-australia-will-smoke-india-4-0-in-tests-predicts-michael-clarke-345073" hreflang="en">IND vs AUS: Australia will smoke India 4-0 in Tests, predicts Michael Clarke</a>

<h2>ICC Awards of the Decade: List of nominations</h2>

Men’s Player of the decade: Virat Kohli (India) Ravichandran Ashwin (India), Joe Root (England), Kane Williamson (New Zealand), Steve Smith (Australia), AB de Villiers (South Africa), and Kumar Sangakkara (Sri Lanka).

Women’s ODI Player of the Decade: Meg Lanning (Australia), Ellyse Perry (Australia), Mithali Raj (India), Suzie Bates (New Zealand), Stafanie Taylor (West Indies) and Jhulan Goswami (India).

Women’s Player of the Decade: Ellyse Perry (Australia), Meg Lanning (Australia), Suzie Bates (New Zealand), Stafanie Taylor (West Indies), Mithali Raj (India), Sarah Taylor (England).

Men’s ODI Player of the Decade: Virat Kohli (India), Lasith Malinga (Sri Lanka), Mitchell Starc (Australia), AB de Villiers, Rohit Sharma (India), MS Dhoni (India), and Kumara Sangakkara (Sri Lanka).

Men’s Test Player of the Decade: Virat Kohli (India), Kane Williamson (New Zealand), Smith, James Anderson (England), Rangana Herath (Sri Lanka), and Yasir Shah (Pakistan).

Men’s T20I Player of the Decade: Rashid Khan (Afghanistan), Virat Kohli (India), Imran Tahir (South Africa), Aaron Finch (Australia), Lasith Malinga (Sri Lanka), Chris Gayle (West Indies), and Rohit Sharma (India).

ICC Spirit of Cricket Award of the Decade: Virat Kohli (India), Kane Williamson (New Zealand), Brendon McCullum (New Zealand), Misbah-ul-Haq (Pakistan), MS Dhoni (India), Anya Shrubsole (England), Katherine Brunt (England), Mahela Jayawardene (Sri Lanka), and Daniel Vettori (New Zealand).

(From PTI Inputs)

India’s Virat Kohli and Ravichandran Ashwin have been nominated for the coveted ICC Men’s Player of the Decade Award with Indian captain Kohli featuring in all five men’s categories of ICC Awards of the Decade for his breathtaking run on the field in the last decade.

India’s Virat Kohli and Ravichandran Ashwin have been nominated for the coveted ICC Men’s Player of the Decade Award with Indian captain Kohli featuring in all five men’s categories of ICC Awards of the Decade for his breathtaking run on the field in the last decade. Kohli and veteran spinner Ashwin are the two Indian players alongside seven overseas players nominated for the most prestigious award by the ICC. Along with Kohl and Ashwin, Joe Root (England), Kane Williamson (New Zealand), Steve Smith (Australia), AB de Villiers (South Africa), and Kumar Sangakkara (Sri Lanka) are the other players nominated in the ICC Men’s Player of the Decade award. In the Men’s ODI Player of the Decade Award, former Indian cricketer Mahendra Singh Dhoni, Rohit Sharma, Kohli, Lasith Malinga (Sri Lanka), Mitchell Starc (Australia), de Villiers and Sangakkara have been nominated. ALSO READ: Shikhar Dhawan gives sneak peek into Team India's new jersey Kohli and Rohit were also named in the Men’s T20I Player of the Decade category which consists the likes of Rashid Khan (Afghanistan), Imran Tahir (South Africa), Aaron Finch (Australia), Malinga and Chris Gayle (West Indies). Furthermore, Kohli has also been nominated in the Men’s Test Player of the Decade and ICC Spirit of Cricket Award of the Decade categories. Kohli has already scored 70 international centuries and is just one behind Ricky Ponting (71) And Sachin Tendulkar (100). He is also behind the iconic duo of Ponting and Tendulkar in the list of leading run-scorers of all-time with 21,444 runs under his belt. In the last decade, Kohli scored over 7000 runs in Test cricket whereas, in ODIs, he amassed more than 11000 runs and over 2600 in T20s. Soon... 👀 pic.twitter.com/9zO6mmw9o8 — ICC (@ICC) November 24, 2020 × ALSO READ: IND vs AUS: Australia will smoke India 4-0 in Tests, predicts Michael Clarke ICC Awards of the Decade: List of nominations Men’s Player of the decade: Virat Kohli (India) Ravichandran Ashwin (India), Joe Root (England), Kane Williamson (New Zealand), Steve Smith (Australia), AB de Villiers (South Africa), and Kumar Sangakkara (Sri Lanka). Women’s ODI Player of the Decade: Meg Lanning (Australia), Ellyse Perry (Australia), Mithali Raj (India), Suzie Bates (New Zealand), Stafanie Taylor (West Indies) and Jhulan Goswami (India). Women’s Player of the Decade: Ellyse Perry (Australia), Meg Lanning (Australia), Suzie Bates (New Zealand), Stafanie Taylor (West Indies), Mithali Raj (India), Sarah Taylor (England). Men’s ODI Player of the Decade: Virat Kohli (India), Lasith Malinga (Sri Lanka), Mitchell Starc (Australia), AB de Villiers, Rohit Sharma (India), MS Dhoni (India), and Kumara Sangakkara (Sri Lanka). Men’s Test Player of the Decade: Virat Kohli (India), Kane Williamson (New Zealand), Smith, James Anderson (England), Rangana Herath (Sri Lanka), and Yasir Shah (Pakistan). Men’s T20I Player of the Decade: Rashid Khan (Afghanistan), Virat Kohli (India), Imran Tahir (South Africa), Aaron Finch (Australia), Lasith Malinga (Sri Lanka), Chris Gayle (West Indies), and Rohit Sharma (India). ICC Spirit of Cricket Award of the Decade: Virat Kohli (India), Kane Williamson (New Zealand), Brendon McCullum (New Zealand), Misbah-ul-Haq (Pakistan), MS Dhoni (India), Anya Shrubsole (England), Katherine Brunt (England), Mahela Jayawardene (Sri Lanka), and Daniel Vettori (New Zealand). (From PTI Inputs)

Virat Kohli in hunt for ICC Player of the Decade Award - Check full nominations list

The ICC will consider the percentage of points earned from the contested matches in deciding the finalists of the inaugural World Test Championship (WTC), which has been affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sri-lankas-nuwan-zoysa-found-guilty-of-3-offences-under-iccs-anti-corruption-code-344099" hreflang="en">Sri Lanka's Nuwan Zoysa found guilty of 3 offences under ICC's Anti-Corruption Code</a>

According to an ESPNcricinfo report, this option was being considered by the ICC’s cricket committee for the first edition of the championship but a final decision will be taken by the chief executives’ committee this week.

“Finalists for the World Test Championship (WTC) will be decided by the percentage of points they have earned from those they have actually contested for,” the report said.

The ICC’s last quarterly meeting of the year begins on Monday.

The report said that the committee also mulled with the idea of treating the Test matches, which could not be played due to the pandemic, as draws and split points but it was shot down.

According to WTC, each of the nine top-ranked sides will play six series over two years with each series counting for a maximum of 120 points, distributed over the number of matches in the rubber.

The top two teams will make the final at Lord’s next June.

According to the new proposal, “If India lose all four Tests against Australia and win all five against England, they’ll get to 480 points and 66.67%.

“If they win all five against England and lose 3-1 to Australia, they’ll have 510 points and 70.83% (marginally ahead of New Zealand’s maximum possible score).

“If India win 5-0 against England and lose 2-0 to Australia, they’ll have 500 points and 69.44%. So even two draws in Australia will not be enough for India if New Zealand sweep 240 points at home.”

Among other teams, New Zealand seem to have the most advantage as if they win their home series against West Indies and Pakistan then they will receive 420 points i.e 70 per and can finish in the top two and play the finals.

With India scheduled to play four Tests in Australia and then host England for five Tests, the results of the two series will decide the finalists of the inaugural WTC.

India have played four series so far and are currently at the top with 360 points, followed by Australia (296) and England (292).

The ICC will consider the percentage of points earned from the contested matches in deciding the finalists of the inaugural World Test Championship (WTC), which has been affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.

The ICC will consider the percentage of points earned from the contested matches in deciding the finalists of the inaugural World Test Championship (WTC), which has been affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. Also read: Sri Lanka's Nuwan Zoysa found guilty of 3 offences under ICC's Anti-Corruption Code According to an ESPNcricinfo report, this option was being considered by the ICC’s cricket committee for the first edition of the championship but a final decision will be taken by the chief executives’ committee this week. “Finalists for the World Test Championship (WTC) will be decided by the percentage of points they have earned from those they have actually contested for,” the report said. The ICC’s last quarterly meeting of the year begins on Monday. The report said that the committee also mulled with the idea of treating the Test matches, which could not be played due to the pandemic, as draws and split points but it was shot down. According to WTC, each of the nine top-ranked sides will play six series over two years with each series counting for a maximum of 120 points, distributed over the number of matches in the rubber. The top two teams will make the final at Lord’s next June. According to the new proposal, “If India lose all four Tests against Australia and win all five against England, they’ll get to 480 points and 66.67%. “If they win all five against England and lose 3-1 to Australia, they’ll have 510 points and 70.83% (marginally ahead of New Zealand’s maximum possible score). “If India win 5-0 against England and lose 2-0 to Australia, they’ll have 500 points and 69.44%. So even two draws in Australia will not be enough for India if New Zealand sweep 240 points at home.” Among other teams, New Zealand seem to have the most advantage as if they win their home series against West Indies and Pakistan then they will receive 420 points i.e 70 per and can finish in the top two and play the finals. With India scheduled to play four Tests in Australia and then host England for five Tests, the results of the two series will decide the finalists of the inaugural WTC. India have played four series so far and are currently at the top with 360 points, followed by Australia (296) and England (292).

World Test Championship finalists to be decided by percentage of points earned: report

The Commonwealth Games Federation (CGF) and the International Cricket Council (ICC) have announced the qualification process for cricket, which makes a historic appearance at the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games, scheduled from 28 July to 8 August.

In what is seen as a huge opportunity to turbo-charge the growth of the game, and take it to new fans, women’s cricket will be a part of the Commonwealth Games for the first time ever, and it will only be the second time that cricket will feature in it after a men’s competition was part of the Games in Kuala Lumpur in 1998.

The qualification process announced on Wednesday grants hosts England one spot while six other highest-ranked ICC Members in the&nbsp;CC Women’s T20I Team Rankings&nbsp;as of 1 April 2021 also qualify directly for the eight-team tournament, which will be held in a city that has an iconic cricket venue in Edgbaston.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/first-time-in-16-years-england-confirm-pakistan-tour-in-2021-343871" hreflang="en">First time in 16 years! England confirm Pakistan tour in 2021</a>

The remaining place will be allocated to the winner of a Commonwealth Games Qualifier, the format and details of which will be announced in due course. The deadline for the Qualifier is 31 January 2022.

Since athletes from the Caribbean will be representing their countries and not the West Indies (as they are affiliated with the ICC), the winner of a designated qualifying tournament will decide which country gets to compete if the West Indies get a slot.

CGF President Dame Louise Martin and ICC Chief Executive Manu Sawhney emphasized on the potential of cricket in the Commonwealth Games while captains of leading teams said they were thrilled at the prospect of women’s cricket featuring in the Games.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-announces-new-official-kit-sponsor-for-indian-cricket-team-343735" hreflang="en">BCCI announces new official kit sponsor for Indian cricket team</a>

ICC Chief Executive Manu Sawhney:&nbsp;"Cricket at the Commonwealth Games is a fantastic opportunity for us to continue to grow the women’s game globally. We are committed to accelerating this growth and maintaining the momentum we have created over the past few years, which most recently saw 86,174 fans packed into the MCG for the final of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2020.

"I thank the Commonwealth Games Federation for their support and for making this possible. We share with them the vision of greater equality, fairness and opportunity in sport and I am sure Birmingham 2022 will go a long way towards us achieving our common objectives."

Commonwealth Games Federation President Dame Louise Martin:&nbsp;"We are absolutely delighted to have women’s T20 cricket debut at the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games.

"Cricket has always been one of the Commonwealth’s most popular sports and it is so special to have it back at our Games for the first time since the men’s competition at Kuala Lumpur 1998, where true greats of the game including Ricky Ponting, Jacques Kallis and Sachin Tendulkar were on show. Now is the turn of the women and I can’t wait to see the next generation of stars like Heather Knight, Harmanpreet Kaur and Meg Lanning take centre stage.

"Birmingham 2022 will be a fantastic showcase for the women’s game and the unveiling of the qualification criteria today is an exciting and important milestone as we head towards what will be a spectacular competition at the iconic Edgbaston Stadium."

ICC Women’s Cricket Manager Holly Colvin:&nbsp;"We have worked closely with the CGF and ICC Members over the last year to confirm the qualification process. It’s fantastic that we are supporting opportunities for a Caribbean island and Commonwealth countries ranked outside the top seven to have the chance to qualify for this momentous event. 
&nbsp; 
"It is a watershed moment for our sport as women’s cricket takes centre stage for the first time at the Commonwealth Games. It is a huge opportunity to show the skills, strength and talent of these female athletes to sports fans across the Commonwealth and attract a new audience to continue to break boundaries for a bright future. 
&nbsp; 
"It is hugely exciting for cricket to be a central part of the sports programme where more medals are awarded to female athletes.&nbsp;Cricket will be staged in the heart of Birmingham, which is a vibrant, diverse city with a strong passion for cricket. We expect nothing less from the crowd supporting the women’s teams at Edgbaston."

England captain Heather Knight:&nbsp;"It’s incredibly exciting that we’re going to be taking part in the Commonwealth Games on home soil. It’s an event I’ve often watched and I never really imagined I’d be taking part so it feels really special. 
&nbsp; 
"It’s another fantastic opportunity for the game of cricket, with coverage live on the BBC, and the chance to reach the thousands of fans who like attending multi-discipline events. 
&nbsp; 
"We can’t wait to be in Birmingham amongst all the other athletes, and we’re counting down towards 2022 – it’s going to be a huge year for us and for women’s cricket in general."

Australia captain Meg Lanning:&nbsp;"The women’s game has gone to another level over the past few years and its inclusion at the Commonwealth Games is a huge opportunity to take it further.

"The announcement of the schedule and qualifying process is an exciting milestone and one that will no doubt create plenty of excitement among players across the globe.

"Winning the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup in front of a record crowd at the Melbourne Cricket Ground was absolutely incredible but we’re now looking to the future with some amazing events and challenges on the horizon including the Birmingham 2022&nbsp;Commonwealth Games."

India captain Harmanpreet Kaur:&nbsp;"The inclusion of cricket at the Commonwealth Games is huge for all players and the game in general.

"Representing your country in a multi-discipline event is a different challenge and with it comes the responsibility of being emissaries of the game since it can get us new followers and fans. 
&nbsp; 
"I hope to be there at the games and wish that it is a great success with some engrossing matches and high quality of cricket."

The Commonwealth Games Federation (CGF) and the International Cricket Council (ICC) have announced the qualification process for cricket, which makes a historic appearance at the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games, scheduled from 28 July to 8 August.

The Commonwealth Games Federation (CGF) and the International Cricket Council (ICC) have announced the qualification process for cricket, which makes a historic appearance at the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games, scheduled from 28 July to 8 August. In what is seen as a huge opportunity to turbo-charge the growth of the game, and take it to new fans, women’s cricket will be a part of the Commonwealth Games for the first time ever, and it will only be the second time that cricket will feature in it after a men’s competition was part of the Games in Kuala Lumpur in 1998. The qualification process announced on Wednesday grants hosts England one spot while six other highest-ranked ICC Members in the CC Women’s T20I Team Rankings as of 1 April 2021 also qualify directly for the eight-team tournament, which will be held in a city that has an iconic cricket venue in Edgbaston. ALSO READ: First time in 16 years! England confirm Pakistan tour in 2021 The remaining place will be allocated to the winner of a Commonwealth Games Qualifier, the format and details of which will be announced in due course. The deadline for the Qualifier is 31 January 2022. Since athletes from the Caribbean will be representing their countries and not the West Indies (as they are affiliated with the ICC), the winner of a designated qualifying tournament will decide which country gets to compete if the West Indies get a slot. CGF President Dame Louise Martin and ICC Chief Executive Manu Sawhney emphasized on the potential of cricket in the Commonwealth Games while captains of leading teams said they were thrilled at the prospect of women’s cricket featuring in the Games. ALSO READ: BCCI announces new official kit sponsor for Indian cricket team ICC Chief Executive Manu Sawhney: "Cricket at the Commonwealth Games is a fantastic opportunity for us to continue to grow the women’s game globally. We are committed to accelerating this growth and maintaining the momentum we have created over the past few years, which most recently saw 86,174 fans packed into the MCG for the final of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2020. "I thank the Commonwealth Games Federation for their support and for making this possible. We share with them the vision of greater equality, fairness and opportunity in sport and I am sure Birmingham 2022 will go a long way towards us achieving our common objectives." Commonwealth Games Federation President Dame Louise Martin: "We are absolutely delighted to have women’s T20 cricket debut at the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games. "Cricket has always been one of the Commonwealth’s most popular sports and it is so special to have it back at our Games for the first time since the men’s competition at Kuala Lumpur 1998, where true greats of the game including Ricky Ponting, Jacques Kallis and Sachin Tendulkar were on show. Now is the turn of the women and I can’t wait to see the next generation of stars like Heather Knight, Harmanpreet Kaur and Meg Lanning take centre stage. "Birmingham 2022 will be a fantastic showcase for the women’s game and the unveiling of the qualification criteria today is an exciting and important milestone as we head towards what will be a spectacular competition at the iconic Edgbaston Stadium." ICC Women’s Cricket Manager Holly Colvin: "We have worked closely with the CGF and ICC Members over the last year to confirm the qualification process. It’s fantastic that we are supporting opportunities for a Caribbean island and Commonwealth countries ranked outside the top seven to have the chance to qualify for this momentous event. "It is a watershed moment for our sport as women’s cricket takes centre stage for the first time at the Commonwealth Games. It is a huge opportunity to show the skills, strength and talent of these female athletes to sports fans across the Commonwealth and attract a new audience to continue to break boundaries for a bright future. "It is hugely exciting for cricket to be a central part of the sports programme where more medals are awarded to female athletes. Cricket will be staged in the heart of Birmingham, which is a vibrant, diverse city with a strong passion for cricket. We expect nothing less from the crowd supporting the women’s teams at Edgbaston." England captain Heather Knight: "It’s incredibly exciting that we’re going to be taking part in the Commonwealth Games on home soil. It’s an event I’ve often watched and I never really imagined I’d be taking part so it feels really special. "It’s another fantastic opportunity for the game of cricket, with coverage live on the BBC, and the chance to reach the thousands of fans who like attending multi-discipline events. "We can’t wait to be in Birmingham amongst all the other athletes, and we’re counting down towards 2022 – it’s going to be a huge year for us and for women’s cricket in general." Australia captain Meg Lanning: "The women’s game has gone to another level over the past few years and its inclusion at the Commonwealth Games is a huge opportunity to take it further. "The announcement of the schedule and qualifying process is an exciting milestone and one that will no doubt create plenty of excitement among players across the globe. "Winning the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup in front of a record crowd at the Melbourne Cricket Ground was absolutely incredible but we’re now looking to the future with some amazing events and challenges on the horizon including the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games." India captain Harmanpreet Kaur: "The inclusion of cricket at the Commonwealth Games is huge for all players and the game in general. "Representing your country in a multi-discipline event is a different challenge and with it comes the responsibility of being emissaries of the game since it can get us new followers and fans. "I hope to be there at the games and wish that it is a great success with some engrossing matches and high quality of cricket."

Cricket in Commonwealth Games: ICC announces qualification process

India's cricketing legend Sachin Tendulkar on Tuesday urged the International Cricket Council (ICC) to make the use of helmet mandatory for batsmen at professional even if the bowler is a spinner.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-think-they-have-got-what-it-takes-brian-lara-thinks-srh-might-catch-mi-off-guard-340123" hreflang="en">'I think they have got what it takes': Brian Lara thinks SRH might catch MI off guard</a>

Tendulkar took to Twitter after an incident in the on-going Indian Premier League where Sunrisers Hyderabad all-rounder Vijay Shankar was accidentally hit on the helmet by KXIP's Nicholas Pooran while taking a quick single. Shankar was saved from a grave injury by the grille on the protective gear.&nbsp;

He said: "The game has become faster but is it getting safer? Recently we witnessed an incident which could've been nasty. Be it a spinner or pacer, wearing a HELMET should be MANDATORY for batsmen at professional levels. Request @icc to take this up on priority".

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
The game has become faster but is it getting safer? 
 
Recently we witnessed an incident which could’ve been nasty. 
 
Be it a spinner or pacer, wearing a HELMET should be MANDATORY for batsmen at professional levels. 
 
Request <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@icc</a> to take this up on priority.<a href="https://t.co/7jErL3af0m">https://t.co/7jErL3af0m</a>
— Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) <a href="https://twitter.com/sachin_rt/status/1323528620984459265?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 3, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-should-go-back-to-kapil-dev-on-ms-dhonis-woeful-form-in-ipl-2020-340062" hreflang="en">'He should go back to.. ': Kapil Dev on MS Dhoni's woeful form in IPL 2020</a>

He went on to tag famous cricketing boards in the following tweets. He also tagged Indian head coach Ravi Shastri escaped a serious injury after getting hit by a Sunil Gavaskar delivery during an exhibition game.

"@RaviShastriOfc, this also reminded me of the time when you got hit after top edging a full toss bowled by Mr. Gavaskar during an exhibition game. That could've been a grave injury too but thankfully wasn't!" Sachin wrote on Twitter.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
.<a href="https://twitter.com/RaviShastriOfc?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RaviShastriOfc</a>, this also reminded me of the time when you got hit after top edging a full toss bowled by Mr. Gavaskar during an exhibition game. That could’ve been a grave injury too but thankfully wasn’t! 🙏🏻
— Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) <a href="https://twitter.com/sachin_rt/status/1323540326448091137?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 3, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
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&nbsp;

India's cricketing legend Sachin Tendulkar on Tuesday urged the International Cricket Council (ICC) to make the use of helmet mandatory for batsmen at professional even if the bowler is a spinner.

India's cricketing legend Sachin Tendulkar on Tuesday urged the International Cricket Council (ICC) to make the use of helmet mandatory for batsmen at professional even if the bowler is a spinner. Also read: 'I think they have got what it takes': Brian Lara thinks SRH might catch MI off guard Tendulkar took to Twitter after an incident in the on-going Indian Premier League where Sunrisers Hyderabad all-rounder Vijay Shankar was accidentally hit on the helmet by KXIP's Nicholas Pooran while taking a quick single. Shankar was saved from a grave injury by the grille on the protective gear. He said: "The game has become faster but is it getting safer? Recently we witnessed an incident which could've been nasty. Be it a spinner or pacer, wearing a HELMET should be MANDATORY for batsmen at professional levels. Request @icc to take this up on priority". The game has become faster but is it getting safer? Recently we witnessed an incident which could’ve been nasty. Be it a spinner or pacer, wearing a HELMET should be MANDATORY for batsmen at professional levels. Request @icc to take this up on priority.https://t.co/7jErL3af0m — Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) November 3, 2020 × Also read: 'He should go back to.. ': Kapil Dev on MS Dhoni's woeful form in IPL 2020 He went on to tag famous cricketing boards in the following tweets. He also tagged Indian head coach Ravi Shastri escaped a serious injury after getting hit by a Sunil Gavaskar delivery during an exhibition game. "@RaviShastriOfc, this also reminded me of the time when you got hit after top edging a full toss bowled by Mr. Gavaskar during an exhibition game. That could've been a grave injury too but thankfully wasn't!" Sachin wrote on Twitter. .@RaviShastriOfc, this also reminded me of the time when you got hit after top edging a full toss bowled by Mr. Gavaskar during an exhibition game. That could’ve been a grave injury too but thankfully wasn’t! 🙏🏻 — Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) November 3, 2020 ×

'Wearing helmets should be mandatory', Sachin Tendulkar urges ICC

IPL 2020 LIVE: Royal Challengers Bangalore vs Kolkata Knight Riders. Join in for match analysis.

IPL 2020 LIVE: Royal Challengers Bangalore vs Kolkata Knight Riders

Lisa Sthalekar, Jacques Kallis and Zaheer Abbas became the latest names to be inducted in the ICC Cricket Hall of Fame&nbsp;as the global cricket body honoured their stellar careers.

The ICC Cricket Hall of Fame&nbsp;show, hosted by commentator Alan Wilkins, featured retired greats Sunil Gavaskar, Melanie Jones and Shaun Pollock as the main guests and had Wasim Akram, Graeme Smith and Alyssa Healy join in to congratulate and appreciate the 2020 inductees.

Kallis is the fourth South African player inducted and Zaheer the sixth from Pakistan. Lisa is the 27th&nbsp;from Australia and the ninth woman player in the list, which includes five from Australia. In all, 93 players have been inducted so far under the system, which sees retired players become eligible five years after playing their last international match.&nbsp;

Former ICC Cricket Hall of Famers formed the majority of the adjudicating panel with representation from the media, ICC and Federation of International Cricketers’ Association (FICA).&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cpl-2020-chemar-holds-his-nerve-as-chase-is-too-much-for-guyana-322701" hreflang="en">CPL 2020: Chemar holds his nerve as Chase is too much for Guyana</a>

ICC Chief Executive Manu Sawhney:&nbsp;“It is always a pleasure to announce the latest set of inductees into the ICC Cricket Hall of Fame. These are all players with a legacy that will continue to inspire future generations for years to come. I congratulate Zaheer, Jacques and Lisa on their inclusion in the pantheon of cricket greats.”&nbsp;

Jacques Kallis:&nbsp;“It’s a great honour to be inducted into the ICC Cricket Hall of Fame. It is something that I never expected when I started playing. I certainly did not play the game for any accolades or anything like that, I only wanted to win the games for whoever I was playing for.&nbsp;

“But it is nice to be recognised when one has succeeded in the sport, it is nice to be recognised by people for something that you have achieved in the game, something that I am really proud of.”&nbsp;

Lisa Sthalekar:&nbsp;“I am deeply humbled to receive this honour. Never in my wildest dreams did I believe that I would ever get to join such an illustrious group of players.&nbsp;

“I was fortunate enough to learn from the best when I entered the Australia team – Belinda Clark, Karen Rolton and Cathryn Fitzpatrick, all of whom have been inducted into the Hall of Fame, and rightly so.&nbsp;The guidance from them and other teammates along the way kept me focused but also ensured that it was a fun environment. Thanks to all my teammates.&nbsp;

“It goes without saying that if it wasn’t for the support of my family, I wouldn’t have been able to achieve what I have.”&nbsp;

Zaheer Abbas:&nbsp;“I feel privileged and truly humbled to be inducted into the ICC Cricket Hall of Fame of the class of 2020. I am excited to be in the midst of other illustrious cricketers.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rizwan-adamant-pakistan-can-save-test-despite-following-on-310-runs-behind-england-322697" hreflang="en">Rizwan adamant Pakistan can save Test despite following-on 310 runs behind England</a>

“I would like to say a special thanks to my family, my country Pakistan, my county Gloucestershire and many fans worldwide who helped me achieve and fulfil my dreams by playing this great game at the highest level. Thank you, ICC, and the members of the jury, for this special honour. It is a final recognition for any cricketer.

“This great game has made me the person I am. Thank you cricket.”

Some career highlights of the latest inductees

Jacques Kallis

<ul>
	<li>The only player to score at least 10,000 runs and take at least 250 wickets in both Test and ODI cricket</li>
	<li>ICC Player of the Year and ICC Test Player of the year in 2005</li>
	<li>South Africa’s leading Test run-scorer, and currently third on the all-time list</li>
	<li>The most capped South African player in both Test and ODI cricket</li>
	<li>Scored 113 not out in the semi-final and took 5-30 in the final as South Africa won the first ICC Knockout Tournament (later the ICC Champions Trophy) in 1998</li>
	<li>Won 23 ‘Player of the Match’ awards in Test cricket, more than anyone else</li>
	<li>Spent 592 days as the No.1 ranked Test batsman (2005-2011)</li>
	<li>Spent 4028 days as the No.1 ranked Test all-rounder (2000-2013) and a record 493 matches ranked number 1</li>
</ul>

Lisa Sthalekar

<ul>
	<li>Over the course of her career, topped both ODI batting and bowling rankings</li>
	<li>The first woman to achieve the double of 1,000 runs and 100 wickets in ODI cricket</li>
	<li>Spent 934 days as the No.1 ranked ODI all-rounder (2007-2010)</li>
	<li>Part of the Australia teams that won the ICC Women’s World Cup in 2005 and 2013 and ICC Women’s T20 World Cup in 2010 and 2012</li>
	<li>She won 12 Women’s National Cricket League titles with New South Wales, and was captain for five victories in a row</li>
	<li>Short-listed for ICC Women’s Cricketer of the Year in both 2007 and 2008 and for ICC Women’s T20I Cricketer of the Year in 2012</li>
</ul>

Zaheer Abbas

<ul>
	<li>The only player from Asia to have scored at least a 100 first-class hundreds</li>
	<li>Became just the second player to score his hundredth first-class century in a Test Match</li>
	<li>He scored two centuries in the same first-class match on a record eight occasions</li>
	<li>On a record four occasions he scored a double-century and a century in the same first-class match</li>
	<li>The first player to score three successive centuries in ODI cricket</li>
	<li>Spent 215 days as the No.1 ranked ODI batsman (1983-1984)</li>
	<li>Captained Pakistan in 14 Test Matches, and only lost one of them</li>
	<li>Later served as an ICC Match Referee and as ICC President</li>
</ul>

Lisa Sthalekar, Jacques Kallis and Zaheer Abbas became the latest names to be inducted in the ICC Cricket Hall of Fame as the global cricket body honoured their stellar careers.

Lisa Sthalekar, Jacques Kallis and Zaheer Abbas became the latest names to be inducted in the ICC Cricket Hall of Fame as the global cricket body honoured their stellar careers. The ICC Cricket Hall of Fame show, hosted by commentator Alan Wilkins, featured retired greats Sunil Gavaskar, Melanie Jones and Shaun Pollock as the main guests and had Wasim Akram, Graeme Smith and Alyssa Healy join in to congratulate and appreciate the 2020 inductees. Kallis is the fourth South African player inducted and Zaheer the sixth from Pakistan. Lisa is the 27th from Australia and the ninth woman player in the list, which includes five from Australia. In all, 93 players have been inducted so far under the system, which sees retired players become eligible five years after playing their last international match. Former ICC Cricket Hall of Famers formed the majority of the adjudicating panel with representation from the media, ICC and Federation of International Cricketers’ Association (FICA). ALSO READ: CPL 2020: Chemar holds his nerve as Chase is too much for Guyana ICC Chief Executive Manu Sawhney: “It is always a pleasure to announce the latest set of inductees into the ICC Cricket Hall of Fame. These are all players with a legacy that will continue to inspire future generations for years to come. I congratulate Zaheer, Jacques and Lisa on their inclusion in the pantheon of cricket greats.” Jacques Kallis: “It’s a great honour to be inducted into the ICC Cricket Hall of Fame. It is something that I never expected when I started playing. I certainly did not play the game for any accolades or anything like that, I only wanted to win the games for whoever I was playing for. “But it is nice to be recognised when one has succeeded in the sport, it is nice to be recognised by people for something that you have achieved in the game, something that I am really proud of.” Lisa Sthalekar: “I am deeply humbled to receive this honour. Never in my wildest dreams did I believe that I would ever get to join such an illustrious group of players. “I was fortunate enough to learn from the best when I entered the Australia team – Belinda Clark, Karen Rolton and Cathryn Fitzpatrick, all of whom have been inducted into the Hall of Fame, and rightly so. The guidance from them and other teammates along the way kept me focused but also ensured that it was a fun environment. Thanks to all my teammates. “It goes without saying that if it wasn’t for the support of my family, I wouldn’t have been able to achieve what I have.” Zaheer Abbas: “I feel privileged and truly humbled to be inducted into the ICC Cricket Hall of Fame of the class of 2020. I am excited to be in the midst of other illustrious cricketers. ALSO READ: Rizwan adamant Pakistan can save Test despite following-on 310 runs behind England “I would like to say a special thanks to my family, my country Pakistan, my county Gloucestershire and many fans worldwide who helped me achieve and fulfil my dreams by playing this great game at the highest level. Thank you, ICC, and the members of the jury, for this special honour. It is a final recognition for any cricketer. “This great game has made me the person I am. Thank you cricket.” Some career highlights of the latest inductees Jacques Kallis The only player to score at least 10,000 runs and take at least 250 wickets in both Test and ODI cricket ICC Player of the Year and ICC Test Player of the year in 2005 South Africa’s leading Test run-scorer, and currently third on the all-time list The most capped South African player in both Test and ODI cricket Scored 113 not out in the semi-final and took 5-30 in the final as South Africa won the first ICC Knockout Tournament (later the ICC Champions Trophy) in 1998 Won 23 ‘Player of the Match’ awards in Test cricket, more than anyone else Spent 592 days as the No.1 ranked Test batsman (2005-2011) Spent 4028 days as the No.1 ranked Test all-rounder (2000-2013) and a record 493 matches ranked number 1 Lisa Sthalekar Over the course of her career, topped both ODI batting and bowling rankings The first woman to achieve the double of 1,000 runs and 100 wickets in ODI cricket Spent 934 days as the No.1 ranked ODI all-rounder (2007-2010) Part of the Australia teams that won the ICC Women’s World Cup in 2005 and 2013 and ICC Women’s T20 World Cup in 2010 and 2012 She won 12 Women’s National Cricket League titles with New South Wales, and was captain for five victories in a row Short-listed for ICC Women’s Cricketer of the Year in both 2007 and 2008 and for ICC Women’s T20I Cricketer of the Year in 2012 Zaheer Abbas The only player from Asia to have scored at least a 100 first-class hundreds Became just the second player to score his hundredth first-class century in a Test Match He scored two centuries in the same first-class match on a record eight occasions On a record four occasions he scored a double-century and a century in the same first-class match The first player to score three successive centuries in ODI cricket Spent 215 days as the No.1 ranked ODI batsman (1983-1984) Captained Pakistan in 14 Test Matches, and only lost one of them Later served as an ICC Match Referee and as ICC President

Kallis, Sthalekar and Zaheer Abbas inducted into ICC Cricket Hall of Fame

The International Cricket Council (ICC) is the number one sports’ governing body for video views on Facebook, with more views on the platform than any other leading sporting organisations in 2020.

The results, from Facebook-owned&nbsp;CrowdTangle; an analytics tool, are another clear indication of the power of cricket to connect and engage with fans around the world through compelling content.

At a time when COVID-19 has severely impacted live sports, the ICC’s channels have gone from strength to strength, with its Facebook page receiving more than double the engagement of other global sporting federations.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-kohli-finch-driven-captains-and-inspirational-players-kane-richardson-318576" hreflang="en">Exclusive - Kohli, Finch driven captains and inspirational players: Kane Richardson</a>

<h2>Some of the highlights include:</h2>

<ul>
	<li>A staggering 1.65 billion video views in the first half of 2020, ensuring the ICC channel topped the rankings in terms of video consumption among leading sporting bodies on Facebook</li>
	<li>Across the April-June lockdown period, overall interactions on the ICC page were more than two and a half times higher than other leading leagues and sports bodies across the world</li>
	<li>Over the previous 12 month period, the ICC Facebook channel was the most engaged page in its category including the single most engaged day in its history with 4.4 million interactions as Bangladesh triumphed over India in the final of the Under 19 Cricket World Cup 2020</li>
</ul>

In February 2020, the ICC Under-19 Cricket World Cup in South Africa played out 747 million video views across ICC digital media assets which was a staggering&nbsp;700%&nbsp;growth from the 2018 edition. In March, during the Women’s T20 World Cup in Australia,&nbsp;the ICC’s digital channels received a total of 1.1 billion video views, which was a&nbsp;1900%&nbsp;increase on the 2018 edition&nbsp;making it the most-watched ICC women’s event to date.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/official-bcci-vivo-suspend-partnership-for-ipl-2020-318604" hreflang="en">Official: BCCI-Vivo suspend partnership for IPL 2020</a>

It was also the second most successful ICC event ever after the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2019 with&nbsp;4.6 billion&nbsp;views across channels. The final of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2020 also, recorded the most single-day views on the ICC Facebook page (64.9 million) since records began.

As the sporting landscape changed during the global pandemic, the ICC acted to engage fans with a host of nostalgic, snackable content. As a result, daily video consumption on Facebook jumped from 3 million minutes viewed to 15 million minutes per day (outside of the ICC live events).

ICC Chief Executive Manu Sawhney&nbsp;said:&nbsp;“The combination of one of the world’s most-watched sports with one of the world’s largest platforms is proving exciting for the growth of cricket consumption. These numbers are testimony to the fact that cricket truly has the power to connect and engage more deeply with diverse audiences around the world. We will continue to enhance these engagements and serve the global cricket fan with exciting content at the back of this partnership.”

The International Cricket Council (ICC) is the number one sports’ governing body for video views on Facebook, with more views on the platform than any other leading sporting organisations in 2020.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) is the number one sports’ governing body for video views on Facebook, with more views on the platform than any other leading sporting organisations in 2020. The results, from Facebook-owned CrowdTangle; an analytics tool, are another clear indication of the power of cricket to connect and engage with fans around the world through compelling content. At a time when COVID-19 has severely impacted live sports, the ICC’s channels have gone from strength to strength, with its Facebook page receiving more than double the engagement of other global sporting federations. ALSO READ: Exclusive - Kohli, Finch driven captains and inspirational players: Kane Richardson Some of the highlights include: A staggering 1.65 billion video views in the first half of 2020, ensuring the ICC channel topped the rankings in terms of video consumption among leading sporting bodies on Facebook Across the April-June lockdown period, overall interactions on the ICC page were more than two and a half times higher than other leading leagues and sports bodies across the world Over the previous 12 month period, the ICC Facebook channel was the most engaged page in its category including the single most engaged day in its history with 4.4 million interactions as Bangladesh triumphed over India in the final of the Under 19 Cricket World Cup 2020 In February 2020, the ICC Under-19 Cricket World Cup in South Africa played out 747 million video views across ICC digital media assets which was a staggering 700% growth from the 2018 edition. In March, during the Women’s T20 World Cup in Australia, the ICC’s digital channels received a total of 1.1 billion video views, which was a 1900% increase on the 2018 edition making it the most-watched ICC women’s event to date. ALSO READ: Official: BCCI-Vivo suspend partnership for IPL 2020 It was also the second most successful ICC event ever after the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2019 with 4.6 billion views across channels. The final of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2020 also, recorded the most single-day views on the ICC Facebook page (64.9 million) since records began. As the sporting landscape changed during the global pandemic, the ICC acted to engage fans with a host of nostalgic, snackable content. As a result, daily video consumption on Facebook jumped from 3 million minutes viewed to 15 million minutes per day (outside of the ICC live events). ICC Chief Executive Manu Sawhney said: “The combination of one of the world’s most-watched sports with one of the world’s largest platforms is proving exciting for the growth of cricket consumption. These numbers are testimony to the fact that cricket truly has the power to connect and engage more deeply with diverse audiences around the world. We will continue to enhance these engagements and serve the global cricket fan with exciting content at the back of this partnership.”

ICC ranks first in sports for video views on Facebook

The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Monday&nbsp;officially launched the inaugural ICC Men's Cricket World Cup Super League. Getting underway on 30 July 2020 in Southampton, the Super League will begin with a series between world champions England and Ireland.

Introduced to bring context to One-Day International (ODI) cricket, the Super League will determine qualification for the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023 with the top seven teams automatically booking their spot at the event in India.

Featuring 13 teams, the 12 ICC Full Members and the Netherlands, who qualified by winning the ICC World Cricket Super League 2015-17, the Super League will see each side play four home and four away three match series.

Commenting on the launch,&nbsp;Geoff&nbsp;Allardice, ICC General Manager - Cricket Operations, said,&nbsp;“We are delighted to get the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup Super League underway with World Cup winners England against Ireland.

“The league will bring relevance and context to ODI cricket over the next three years, as qualification for the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023 is at stake. The Super League gives cricket fans around the world even more reasons to watch as the drama of league cricket unfolds.”

“The decision last week to move the World Cup back to late 2023 gives us more time to schedule any games lost due to COVID-19 and preserve the integrity of the qualification process, meaning it will be decided on the field of play, which is important.”

Eoin Morgan, England captain, said:&nbsp;“We’re looking forward to playing cricket again and to the ICC Men’s World Cup Super League. Given the situation, it will be quite different to the last time we played at home, when we lifted the World Cup at Lord’s, but it’s nice to be starting our journey for the next edition of the tournament.

“I’m sure cricket fans all over the world will be excited to see white-ball cricket resume and we’re looking forward to the challenge. 
 
“Ireland are a talented team who have shown over the years that they can beat the best on their day. We look forward to what promises to be an interesting series.”

Andrew Balbirnie, Ireland captain, said:&nbsp;“It’s a privilege to be playing in the inaugural series of the ICC Men’s World Cup Super League. It is obviously going to be a huge challenge taking on the team that won the World Cup just a year ago but we have prepared well and have taken confidence from our form over the early months of 2020.” 
 
“What is important is that we are getting back on the field. I hope international cricket’s return is steady during these challenging times. 
 
“I look forward to the Irish side putting on a good performance in the upcoming series as we start our campaign for World Cup qualification.”

The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Monday officially launched the inaugural ICC Men's Cricket World Cup Super League. Getting underway on 30 July 2020 in Southampton, the Super League will begin with a series between world champions England and Ireland.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Monday officially launched the inaugural ICC Men's Cricket World Cup Super League. Getting underway on 30 July 2020 in Southampton, the Super League will begin with a series between world champions England and Ireland. Introduced to bring context to One-Day International (ODI) cricket, the Super League will determine qualification for the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023 with the top seven teams automatically booking their spot at the event in India. Featuring 13 teams, the 12 ICC Full Members and the Netherlands, who qualified by winning the ICC World Cricket Super League 2015-17, the Super League will see each side play four home and four away three match series. Commenting on the launch, Geoff Allardice, ICC General Manager - Cricket Operations, said, “We are delighted to get the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup Super League underway with World Cup winners England against Ireland. “The league will bring relevance and context to ODI cricket over the next three years, as qualification for the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023 is at stake. The Super League gives cricket fans around the world even more reasons to watch as the drama of league cricket unfolds.” “The decision last week to move the World Cup back to late 2023 gives us more time to schedule any games lost due to COVID-19 and preserve the integrity of the qualification process, meaning it will be decided on the field of play, which is important.” Eoin Morgan, England captain, said: “We’re looking forward to playing cricket again and to the ICC Men’s World Cup Super League. Given the situation, it will be quite different to the last time we played at home, when we lifted the World Cup at Lord’s, but it’s nice to be starting our journey for the next edition of the tournament. “I’m sure cricket fans all over the world will be excited to see white-ball cricket resume and we’re looking forward to the challenge. “Ireland are a talented team who have shown over the years that they can beat the best on their day. We look forward to what promises to be an interesting series.” Andrew Balbirnie, Ireland captain, said: “It’s a privilege to be playing in the inaugural series of the ICC Men’s World Cup Super League. It is obviously going to be a huge challenge taking on the team that won the World Cup just a year ago but we have prepared well and have taken confidence from our form over the early months of 2020.” “What is important is that we are getting back on the field. I hope international cricket’s return is steady during these challenging times. “I look forward to the Irish side putting on a good performance in the upcoming series as we start our campaign for World Cup qualification.”

ICC launches Men's Cricket World Cup Super League

The World Test Championship schedule has been thrown haywire by the COVID-19 pandemic and its much-awaited final next year will depend on the number of rescheduled bilateral series after the disruption, ICC GM (Cricket Operations) Geoff Allardice said on Monday.

The COVID-19 pandemic has thrown the Futures Tours and Programme (FTP) into disarray with the T20 World Cup already postponed to give member nations time to complete their bilateral commitments.

"We are currently in discussion with members on what their plans are around rescheduling their series," Allardice answered to a query from PTI during an interaction with news agencies.

Given the circumstances and tight schedules, ICC might have to postpone the June final at the Lord's as Bangladesh, New Zealand, Sri Lanka, England have backlog series but Allardice, a former Australian first-class cricketer, would like to wait a bit more.

"Obviously their teams have re-scheduled them (their engagements) as quickly as possible. Depending on how many of them (postponed series) could be re-scheduled within the available time will give us the most appropriate timing for the final. But at this stage the final is scheduled for June 2021," he said.

"We are working with the members on that...Countries are now working out on how to resume and when it's best to resume and they are all in their process of looking at calenders," Allardice added.

Allardice also made it clear that the ICC's role in this scenario would be of a facilitator for the members as the body can't directly get involved in drawing up their calendars.

"I don't see us taking a greater role in terms of being pro-active. ICC plays a role in coordinating competitions, but it has no role in scheduling as it is on members," he clarified.

He admitted that there is a lot of "uncertainty around when international cricket can resume in a number of countries" considering that the situation is different everywhere.

Allardice also said that since 2018, when the ICC ODI League was first devised, the global body has tried to recommend a bit of balance between ODIs and T20 International formats with bilaterals featuring three 50-over and an equal number of 20-over games.

"The rules around league were established, back in 2017-18, a decision was taken at that time that T20Is and ODis will be three-match series.

"Earlier, it used to be five ODIs and a T20 International. Probably it changes the balance but when the league was designed, the countries agreed that there would be three ODIs and three T20 Internationals," he added. 
While South Africa has started with 'Three Team Cricket' or better known as 3TC on an experimental basis, ICC will only be focussing on the three formats at its disposal.

In 3TC, three teams of eight players compete in a single match. Each team bats for a total of 12 overs, split between two periods of six overs apiece from each of the other two teams in the match.

"Look the ICC's position is at the moment we have three international formats but members are encouraged to try out new format," Allardice said.

"We are focussed on these three formats (Tests, ODis, T20Is). We are aware of what's happening in member countries but it has not come on the ICC radar as yet," the GM put forth global body's point. 
Talking about women's cricket Allardice refused to buy the notion that women's game is likely to suffer more because of the pandemic compared to men's cricket.

"Women's cricket is as much affected as men's cricket. The planning is going ahead for the event and the situation is being monitored."

<h2>TV Umpires to call no ball during ODI Super League</h2>

According to a report in ESPN Cricinfo, the front-foot no balls will be exclusively monitored by the third umpire and teams guilty of slow overrate will face points deduction.

It was during last year's India-West Indies limited overs series when the ICC ruled that the front foot no ball will be monitored by TV umpires on a trial basis.

"It is something that will be used on Thursday (between Ireland and England) and for the series to be played," Allardice was quoted as saying by the website.

"Certainly there is the importance of the free hit in white-ball cricket, and getting no-balls called accurately.

"That is considered to be an important feature. The Cricket Committee has recommended that and it's in the playing conditions for the World Cup Super League."

The World Test Championship schedule has been thrown haywire by the COVID-19 pandemic and its much-awaited final next year will depend on the number of rescheduled bilateral series after the disruption, ICC GM (Cricket Operations) Geoff Allardice said on Monday.

The World Test Championship schedule has been thrown haywire by the COVID-19 pandemic and its much-awaited final next year will depend on the number of rescheduled bilateral series after the disruption, ICC GM (Cricket Operations) Geoff Allardice said on Monday. The COVID-19 pandemic has thrown the Futures Tours and Programme (FTP) into disarray with the T20 World Cup already postponed to give member nations time to complete their bilateral commitments. "We are currently in discussion with members on what their plans are around rescheduling their series," Allardice answered to a query from PTI during an interaction with news agencies. Given the circumstances and tight schedules, ICC might have to postpone the June final at the Lord's as Bangladesh, New Zealand, Sri Lanka, England have backlog series but Allardice, a former Australian first-class cricketer, would like to wait a bit more. "Obviously their teams have re-scheduled them (their engagements) as quickly as possible. Depending on how many of them (postponed series) could be re-scheduled within the available time will give us the most appropriate timing for the final. But at this stage the final is scheduled for June 2021," he said. "We are working with the members on that...Countries are now working out on how to resume and when it's best to resume and they are all in their process of looking at calenders," Allardice added. Allardice also made it clear that the ICC's role in this scenario would be of a facilitator for the members as the body can't directly get involved in drawing up their calendars. "I don't see us taking a greater role in terms of being pro-active. ICC plays a role in coordinating competitions, but it has no role in scheduling as it is on members," he clarified. He admitted that there is a lot of "uncertainty around when international cricket can resume in a number of countries" considering that the situation is different everywhere. Allardice also said that since 2018, when the ICC ODI League was first devised, the global body has tried to recommend a bit of balance between ODIs and T20 International formats with bilaterals featuring three 50-over and an equal number of 20-over games. "The rules around league were established, back in 2017-18, a decision was taken at that time that T20Is and ODis will be three-match series. "Earlier, it used to be five ODIs and a T20 International. Probably it changes the balance but when the league was designed, the countries agreed that there would be three ODIs and three T20 Internationals," he added. While South Africa has started with 'Three Team Cricket' or better known as 3TC on an experimental basis, ICC will only be focussing on the three formats at its disposal. In 3TC, three teams of eight players compete in a single match. Each team bats for a total of 12 overs, split between two periods of six overs apiece from each of the other two teams in the match. "Look the ICC's position is at the moment we have three international formats but members are encouraged to try out new format," Allardice said. "We are focussed on these three formats (Tests, ODis, T20Is). We are aware of what's happening in member countries but it has not come on the ICC radar as yet," the GM put forth global body's point. Talking about women's cricket Allardice refused to buy the notion that women's game is likely to suffer more because of the pandemic compared to men's cricket. "Women's cricket is as much affected as men's cricket. The planning is going ahead for the event and the situation is being monitored." TV Umpires to call no ball during ODI Super League According to a report in ESPN Cricinfo, the front-foot no balls will be exclusively monitored by the third umpire and teams guilty of slow overrate will face points deduction. It was during last year's India-West Indies limited overs series when the ICC ruled that the front foot no ball will be monitored by TV umpires on a trial basis. "It is something that will be used on Thursday (between Ireland and England) and for the series to be played," Allardice was quoted as saying by the website. "Certainly there is the importance of the free hit in white-ball cricket, and getting no-balls called accurately. "That is considered to be an important feature. The Cricket Committee has recommended that and it's in the playing conditions for the World Cup Super League."

ICC discussing rescheduling of WTC Test series with Member Nations: ICC GM

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has confirmed that the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup that was scheduled to be held in Australia later this year has been postponed due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has confirmed that the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup that was scheduled to be held in Australia later this year has been postponed due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. Today's IBC Board meeting set a window for the next three ICC events were set to recover from the disruptions caused by the coronavirus pandemic. The IBC board is the commercial subsidiary of the ICC. Following are the windows of ICC events: ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2021 will be held October – November 2021 with the final on 14 November 2021 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2022 will be held October – November 2022 with the final on 13 November 2022 ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023 will be held in India October – November 2023 with the final on 26 November 2023 ICC's Chief Executive Manu Sawhney released a statement on the official website and said: “We have undertaken a comprehensive and complex contingency planning exercise and through this process, our number one priority has been to protect the health and safety of everyone involved in the sport. “The decision to postpone the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup was taken after careful consideration of all of the options available to us and gives us the best possible opportunity of delivering two safe and successful T20 World Cups for fans around the world. “Our members now have the clarity they need around event windows to enable them to reschedule lost bilateral and domestic cricket. Moving the Men’s Cricket World Cup to a later window is a critical element of this and gives us a better chance of maintaining the integrity of the qualification process. This additional time will be used to reschedule games that might be lost because of the pandemic ensuring qualification can be decided on the field of play. “Throughout this process we have worked closely with our key stakeholders including governments, Members, broadcasters, partners and medical experts to enable us to reach a collective decision for the good of the game and our fans. I would like to thank everyone involved for their commitment to a safe return to cricket.” The IBC Board will continue its evaluation for next year's ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup. The tournament will be held in New Zealand in February.

Men’s T20 World Cup 2020 postponed due to coronavirus pandemic: ICC

S Sreesanth in an exclusive conversation with WION talks about his plans to make a comeback to the Indian Cricket team.

"I am ready physically and mentally to return back to cricket field": Sreesanth in conversation with WION

The International Cricket Council (ICC) is likely to discuss the fate of the T20 World Cup 2020, scheduled to be held in Australia in October-November, in its next Board meeting. However, the date for the next ICC Board meeting is yet to be decided.&nbsp;

There are major chances that the ICC Board meeting takes place over the next week or so but there is no confirmed date for the same.&nbsp;

"As of now no date is decided, but it will be there over the next one week or so but date not confirmed," ICC sources told ANI.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-are-still-unsure-few-franchises-losing-hope-of-ipl-2020-312380" hreflang="en">'We are still unsure': Few franchises 'losing hope' of IPL 2020</a>

When asked about the agenda such as announcement on the postponement of T20 World Cup and ICC elections, the source added that no details have been issues but chances are likely that T20 World Cup will be discussed in the meeting.

Earlier in the month, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../shashank-manohar-quits-as-icc-chairman-imran -khawaja-named-interim-head-309930">ICC chairman Shashank Manohar had stepped down</a> after two, two-year tenures.

<h2>"As of now no details have been issued"</h2>

“As of now no details have been issued but there are chances that T20 WC will be discussed,” the source added. 
The T20 World Cup 2020 is scheduled to be played in Australia from October 18 to November 19 but is likely to be postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/new-zealand-offering-to-host-ipl-2020-is-speculation-nzc-spokesperson-311880" hreflang="en">New Zealand offering to host IPL 2020 is speculation: NZC spokesperson</a>

Meanwhile, the postponement of the T20 World Cup will open a window for the much-talked-about <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/ipl">Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020</a> with the BCCI keen on conducting the cash-rich tournament be it in India or overseas. The UAE and Sri Lanka have already come forward in a bid to host the IPL 2020 and it will be interesting to see which option the BCCI picks. &nbsp; 
&nbsp;

The International Cricket Council (ICC) is likely to discuss the fate of the T20 World Cup 2020, scheduled to be held in Australia in October-November, in its next Board meeting.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) is likely to discuss the fate of the T20 World Cup 2020, scheduled to be held in Australia in October-November, in its next Board meeting. However, the date for the next ICC Board meeting is yet to be decided. There are major chances that the ICC Board meeting takes place over the next week or so but there is no confirmed date for the same. "As of now no date is decided, but it will be there over the next one week or so but date not confirmed," ICC sources told ANI. ALSO READ: 'We are still unsure': Few franchises 'losing hope' of IPL 2020 When asked about the agenda such as announcement on the postponement of T20 World Cup and ICC elections, the source added that no details have been issues but chances are likely that T20 World Cup will be discussed in the meeting. Earlier in the month, ICC chairman Shashank Manohar had stepped down after two, two-year tenures. "As of now no details have been issued" “As of now no details have been issued but there are chances that T20 WC will be discussed,” the source added. The T20 World Cup 2020 is scheduled to be played in Australia from October 18 to November 19 but is likely to be postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. ALSO READ: New Zealand offering to host IPL 2020 is speculation: NZC spokesperson Meanwhile, the postponement of the T20 World Cup will open a window for the much-talked-about Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 with the BCCI keen on conducting the cash-rich tournament be it in India or overseas. The UAE and Sri Lanka have already come forward in a bid to host the IPL 2020 and it will be interesting to see which option the BCCI picks.

ICC likely to discuss fate of T20 World Cup 2020 in next board meeting

The ICC has defended the 2011 World Cup final match and has said that there is no reason to doubt the integrity of the match where India defeated Sri Lanka to lift the coveted trophy.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-2011-match-fixing-investigation-dropped-by-sri-lankan-police-due-to-lack-of-evidence-310410" hreflang="en">World Cup 2011 match-fixing investigation dropped by Sri Lankan police due to lack of evidence</a>

Then-sports minister of Sri Lanka Mahindananda Aluthgamage claimed that Sri Lanka “sold” the 2011 World Cup final.

"I feel I can talk about it now," Mahindananda Aluthgamage told a local TV network last month. "I am not connecting players, but some sections were involved."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wc-2011-match-fixing-investigation-sri-lanka-skipper-kumar-sangakkara-grilled-for-8-hours-mahela-jayawardene-next-in-line-310381" hreflang="en">WC 2011 match-fixing investigation: Sri Lanka skipper Kumar Sangakkara grilled for 8 hours; Mahela Jayawardene next in line</a>

The toss in the summit class was also controversial as it took place twice after match referee Jeff Crowe apparently didn’t hear the call by Sangakkara and asked Dhoni to flip the coin again. Sri Lanka’s decision to bat first was also slammed by many.&nbsp;

However, the investigation was dropped as no evidence was found to support Aluthgamage's claim.&nbsp;

"We have no reason to doubt the integrity of the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup Final 2011," ICC's Anti Corruption Unit General Manager Alex Marshall said in a statement.

"The ICC Integrity Unit has looked into the recent allegations regarding the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup Final 2011," Marshall said.

"There is no record of any letter regarding this matter sent by the then Sri Lanka Sports Minister to the ICC and senior ICC staff at the time have confirmed they have no recollection of receiving any such letter which would have led to an investigation," Marshall said.

Marshall went to say that ICC takes all the claims against match0fixing seriously.&nbsp;

"We take all allegations of this nature extremely seriously and should we receive any evidence to corroborate the claims, we will review our current position."

Kumar Sangakkara, Jayawardene, and many players including the chief selectors were called for a gruesome investigation.&nbsp;

The ICC has defended the 2011 World Cup final match and has said that there is no reason to doubt the integrity of the match where India defeated Sri Lanka to lift the coveted trophy.

The ICC has defended the 2011 World Cup final match and has said that there is no reason to doubt the integrity of the match where India defeated Sri Lanka to lift the coveted trophy. Also read: World Cup 2011 match-fixing investigation dropped by Sri Lankan police due to lack of evidence Then-sports minister of Sri Lanka Mahindananda Aluthgamage claimed that Sri Lanka “sold” the 2011 World Cup final. "I feel I can talk about it now," Mahindananda Aluthgamage told a local TV network last month. "I am not connecting players, but some sections were involved." Also read: WC 2011 match-fixing investigation: Sri Lanka skipper Kumar Sangakkara grilled for 8 hours; Mahela Jayawardene next in line The toss in the summit class was also controversial as it took place twice after match referee Jeff Crowe apparently didn’t hear the call by Sangakkara and asked Dhoni to flip the coin again. Sri Lanka’s decision to bat first was also slammed by many. However, the investigation was dropped as no evidence was found to support Aluthgamage's claim. "We have no reason to doubt the integrity of the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup Final 2011," ICC's Anti Corruption Unit General Manager Alex Marshall said in a statement. "The ICC Integrity Unit has looked into the recent allegations regarding the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup Final 2011," Marshall said. "There is no record of any letter regarding this matter sent by the then Sri Lanka Sports Minister to the ICC and senior ICC staff at the time have confirmed they have no recollection of receiving any such letter which would have led to an investigation," Marshall said. Marshall went to say that ICC takes all the claims against match0fixing seriously. "We take all allegations of this nature extremely seriously and should we receive any evidence to corroborate the claims, we will review our current position." Kumar Sangakkara, Jayawardene, and many players including the chief selectors were called for a gruesome investigation.

ICC defends 'integrity' of World Cup 2011 finals

While the BCCI is trying its best to hold the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/ipl">Indian Premier League</a> this year, one of the major stakeholders of the league has suggested that IPL must entirely be held in Mumbai, as per a PTI report.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-news-ms-dhoni-named-captain-as-ab-de-villiers-picks-his-all-time-ipl-xi-309866">MS Dhoni named captain as AB de Villiers picks his all-time IPL XI</a>

This year's IPL season was put on hold due to the coronavirus pandemic and the BCCI was planning to host the league during the September-October window, however, ICC is yet to announce T20 World Cup's future.&nbsp;

“It’s at a very preliminary stage but if IPL happens in India and by October, the situation is under control in Mumbai, there are four top-class floodlit grounds available in Mumbai. The logistics for BCCI, broadcasters, maintaining a bio-bubble, everything could be managed smoothly,” another BCCI official told PTI.

Mumbai currently is the worst-hit city in India in terms of coronavirus pandemic with over 31,000 cases. “Everything depends on Covid-19 situation in Mumbai. But if there are no spectators allowed and a bio-bubble is created, then Mumbai won’t be a bad option,” the official said.

While the BCCI is trying its best to hold the Indian Premier League this year, one of the major stakeholders of the league has suggested that IPL must entirely be held in Mumbai, as per a PTI report.

While the BCCI is trying its best to hold the Indian Premier League this year, one of the major stakeholders of the league has suggested that IPL must entirely be held in Mumbai, as per a PTI report. Also read: MS Dhoni named captain as AB de Villiers picks his all-time IPL XI This year's IPL season was put on hold due to the coronavirus pandemic and the BCCI was planning to host the league during the September-October window, however, ICC is yet to announce T20 World Cup's future. “It’s at a very preliminary stage but if IPL happens in India and by October, the situation is under control in Mumbai, there are four top-class floodlit grounds available in Mumbai. The logistics for BCCI, broadcasters, maintaining a bio-bubble, everything could be managed smoothly,” another BCCI official told PTI. Mumbai currently is the worst-hit city in India in terms of coronavirus pandemic with over 31,000 cases. “Everything depends on Covid-19 situation in Mumbai. But if there are no spectators allowed and a bio-bubble is created, then Mumbai won’t be a bad option,” the official said.

Indian Premier League could be entirely held in Mumbai: Reports

India’s Nitin Menon has been inducted in the ICC Elite Panel of Umpires for the 2020-21 season following the annual review and selection process conducted by the International Cricket Council (ICC). The 36-year-old becomes the youngest umpire in the panel and has already officiated in three Tests, 24 ODIs and 16 T20Is.&nbsp;

Menon replaces England’s’ Nigel Llong while becoming the third from his country to make to the panel after Srinivas Venkartaghavan and Sundaram Ravi.&nbsp;

A selection panel consisting of ICC General Manager - Cricket, Geoff Allardice (Chairman), former player and commentator Sanjay Manjrekar, and match referees Ranjan Madugalle and David Boon, picked Menon, who was earlier part of the Emirates ICC International Panel of Umpires.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/azhar-ali-and-pakistan-eye-fragile-england-top-order-as-series-countdown-begins-309374" hreflang="en">Azhar Ali and Pakistan eye 'fragile' England top-order as series countdown begins</a>

<h2>"The feeling has yet to sink in" - Nitin Menon</h2>

"It’s a great honour and matter of pride for me to be named in the Elite panel. To be officiating regularly along with the leading umpires and referees of the world is something that I always dreamt of and the feeling has yet to sink in,” said Nitin Menon after being inducted in ICC Elite Panel of Umpires for the 2020-2021 season.

"Having already officiated in Tests, ODIs and T20Is as well as in ICC events, I understand the great responsibility that comes with the job. I look forward to the challenges and will do my best at every opportunity I get. I also feel this is a responsibility on me to take Indian umpires forward and help them by sharing my experiences.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/west-indies-players-to-don-black-lives-matter-logo-during-england-test-series-309350" hreflang="en">West Indies players to don 'Black Lives Matter' logo during England Test series</a>

"I would like to take this opportunity to thank the Madhya Pradesh Cricket Association, BCCI and ICC for their support and believing in my ability over the years. I would also like to thank my family for their sacrifices and unconditional support throughout my career."

The other members of the Emirates ICC Elite Panel of Umpires are Aleem Dar, Kumar Dharmasena, Marais Erasmus, Chris Gaffaney, Michael Gough, Richard Illingworth, Richard Kettleborough, Bruce Oxenford, Paul Reiffel, Rod Tucker and Joel Wilson. 
&nbsp;

India’s Nitin Menon has been inducted in the ICC Elite Panel of Umpires for the 2020-21 season following the annual review and selection process conducted by the International Cricket Council (ICC).

India’s Nitin Menon has been inducted in the ICC Elite Panel of Umpires for the 2020-21 season following the annual review and selection process conducted by the International Cricket Council (ICC). The 36-year-old becomes the youngest umpire in the panel and has already officiated in three Tests, 24 ODIs and 16 T20Is. Menon replaces England’s’ Nigel Llong while becoming the third from his country to make to the panel after Srinivas Venkartaghavan and Sundaram Ravi. A selection panel consisting of ICC General Manager - Cricket, Geoff Allardice (Chairman), former player and commentator Sanjay Manjrekar, and match referees Ranjan Madugalle and David Boon, picked Menon, who was earlier part of the Emirates ICC International Panel of Umpires. ALSO READ: Azhar Ali and Pakistan eye 'fragile' England top-order as series countdown begins "The feeling has yet to sink in" - Nitin Menon "It’s a great honour and matter of pride for me to be named in the Elite panel. To be officiating regularly along with the leading umpires and referees of the world is something that I always dreamt of and the feeling has yet to sink in,” said Nitin Menon after being inducted in ICC Elite Panel of Umpires for the 2020-2021 season. "Having already officiated in Tests, ODIs and T20Is as well as in ICC events, I understand the great responsibility that comes with the job. I look forward to the challenges and will do my best at every opportunity I get. I also feel this is a responsibility on me to take Indian umpires forward and help them by sharing my experiences. ALSO READ: West Indies players to don 'Black Lives Matter' logo during England Test series "I would like to take this opportunity to thank the Madhya Pradesh Cricket Association, BCCI and ICC for their support and believing in my ability over the years. I would also like to thank my family for their sacrifices and unconditional support throughout my career." The other members of the Emirates ICC Elite Panel of Umpires are Aleem Dar, Kumar Dharmasena, Marais Erasmus, Chris Gaffaney, Michael Gough, Richard Illingworth, Richard Kettleborough, Bruce Oxenford, Paul Reiffel, Rod Tucker and Joel Wilson.

Nitin Menon included in ICC Elite Panel of Umpires for 2020-21, third Indian to achieve the landmark

The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Monday announced record viewing figures for the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2020, which became one of the most-watched women’s sporting event in the history with cricket continuing to set fresh benchmarks on and off the field.

The event had already racked up 1.1 billion video views through the ICC digital channels – 20 times the views from the previous editions in 2018 and 10 times the previous most successful women’s cricket event, the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2017.

The latest revelations make the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2020 the second most successful ICC event after the Men’s World Cup 2019.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/aravinda-de-silva-urges-icc-bcci-slc-to-investigate-india-vs-sri-lanka-2011-world-cup-final-fixing-claims-307700" hreflang="en">Aravinda de Silva urges ICC, BCCI, SLC to investigate India vs Sri Lanka 2011 World Cup final fixing claims</a>

In Australia, live viewing hours were 473 per cent higher than the 2018 tournament at 13.45m. The final between India and Australia recorded an average audience of 1.2m viewers, making the event the most watch women’s cricket match in Australian broadcast history.&nbsp;

India’s success in the tournament boosted audience interest with total viewership for the knockout phase recorded at 423 per cent higher than 2018. Live viewing hours shot up 152 per cent at 86.15m.&nbsp;

Whereas in South Africa, the live viewing hours were 647,000 – 40 per cent higher than in 2018. South Africa’s defeat to Australia was the most-watched match in the tournament with 39,000 average audiences.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/former-pakistan-cricketer-aaqib-javed-makes-fixing-revelations-says-lavish-cars-millions-were-offered-307662" hreflang="en">Former Pakistan cricketer Aaqib Javed makes fixing revelations, says 'lavish cars, millions were offered'</a>

In the UK, where time zone was a major challenge, the live viewing hours dropped only by eight per cent at 5.32m than the 2018 tournament, where England made it to the final.&nbsp;

ICC Chief Executive Manu Sawhney: “We are delighted with these outstanding global viewership numbers that demonstrate the power of women’s cricket to attract huge audiences across the globe. It reinforces our belief that there is a significant opportunity around the women’s game and collectively we must promote it further so more fans can enjoy it, more kids are inspired by it and sponsors and broadcasters want to be a part of it.” 
&nbsp;

The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Monday announced record viewing figures for the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2020, which became one of the most-watched women’s sporting event in the history with cricket continuing to set fresh benchmarks on and off the field.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Monday announced record viewing figures for the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2020, which became one of the most-watched women’s sporting event in the history with cricket continuing to set fresh benchmarks on and off the field. The event had already racked up 1.1 billion video views through the ICC digital channels – 20 times the views from the previous editions in 2018 and 10 times the previous most successful women’s cricket event, the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2017. The latest revelations make the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2020 the second most successful ICC event after the Men’s World Cup 2019. ALSO READ: Aravinda de Silva urges ICC, BCCI, SLC to investigate India vs Sri Lanka 2011 World Cup final fixing claims In Australia, live viewing hours were 473 per cent higher than the 2018 tournament at 13.45m. The final between India and Australia recorded an average audience of 1.2m viewers, making the event the most watch women’s cricket match in Australian broadcast history. India’s success in the tournament boosted audience interest with total viewership for the knockout phase recorded at 423 per cent higher than 2018. Live viewing hours shot up 152 per cent at 86.15m. Whereas in South Africa, the live viewing hours were 647,000 – 40 per cent higher than in 2018. South Africa’s defeat to Australia was the most-watched match in the tournament with 39,000 average audiences. ALSO READ: Former Pakistan cricketer Aaqib Javed makes fixing revelations, says 'lavish cars, millions were offered' In the UK, where time zone was a major challenge, the live viewing hours dropped only by eight per cent at 5.32m than the 2018 tournament, where England made it to the final. ICC Chief Executive Manu Sawhney: “We are delighted with these outstanding global viewership numbers that demonstrate the power of women’s cricket to attract huge audiences across the globe. It reinforces our belief that there is a significant opportunity around the women’s game and collectively we must promote it further so more fans can enjoy it, more kids are inspired by it and sponsors and broadcasters want to be a part of it.”

ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2020 most watched women's cricket event in history

The UN human rights office on Friday regretted the impact that US sanctions authorised by President Donald Trump may have on trials and investigations under way at the International Criminal Court (ICC), saying its independence must be protected.

Trump on Thursday authorised US economic and travel sanctions against employees of the Hague-based tribunal involved in an investigation into whether American forces committed war crimes in Afghanistan.

“The independence of the ICC and its ability to operate without interference must be guaranteed so that it can decide matters without any improper influence, inducement, pressures, threats or interference, direct or indirect, from any quarter or for any reasons,”&nbsp; 
UN human rights spokesman Rupert Colville told a briefing in Geneva. “Victims of gross human rights violations and serious violations of international humanitarian law and their families have the right to redress and the truth.”

The UN human rights office on Friday regretted the impact that US sanctions authorised by President Donald Trump may have on trials and investigations under way at the International Criminal Court (ICC), saying its independence must be protected.

The UN human rights office on Friday regretted the impact that US sanctions authorised by President Donald Trump may have on trials and investigations under way at the International Criminal Court (ICC), saying its independence must be protected. Trump on Thursday authorised US economic and travel sanctions against employees of the Hague-based tribunal involved in an investigation into whether American forces committed war crimes in Afghanistan. “The independence of the ICC and its ability to operate without interference must be guaranteed so that it can decide matters without any improper influence, inducement, pressures, threats or interference, direct or indirect, from any quarter or for any reasons,” UN human rights spokesman Rupert Colville told a briefing in Geneva. “Victims of gross human rights violations and serious violations of international humanitarian law and their families have the right to redress and the truth.”

UN regrets Trump move against ICC, says court must be protected

The Trump administration has launched an economic and legal offensive on the international criminal court (ICC) in response to the court’s decision to open an investigation into war crimes in Afghanistan carried out by all sides. Watch report.

US vs International criminal court: US to launch counter-investigation into ICC

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