One of the most intense cricketing rivalries is all set to resume as the much-awaited Ashes 2021-22 opener will be held on December 8 (Wednesday) at The Gabba, Brisbane. The Ashes returns Down Under after a gap of four years as Pat Cummins &amp; Co. will look to retain the urn versus Joe Root-led England following a 2-2 scoreline in Ashes 2019 in the United Kingdom.

Ahead of the Ashes opener, Australia were dealt with a huge blow with regular captain Tim Paine resigning from the top job in the aftermath of the sexting scandal. In addition, he announced an indefinite break from international cricket as Cricket Australia (CA) announced Cummins as captain with former skipper Steve Smith returning back to leadership role as the new vice-captain.

England, on the other hand, will also see the return of superstar all-rounder Ben Stokes, who is coming back from his indefinite break. James Anderson will be out of action in the series opener as the team management wants him to focus on the day-night Test at Adelaide Oval, Adelaide. Before the Ashes 2021-22 opener, here's all you need to know about the schedule, venues, dates, telecast, live streaming and other details:

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-to-announce-t20-world-cup-australia-full-schedule-on-january-21-434550">ICC to announce T20 World Cup Australia full schedule on January 21</a>

Ashes 2021-22 Schedule:

Dec 08-12, The Gabba: Australia vs England, 1st Test

Dec 16-20, Adelaide Oval, Adelaide: Australia vs England, 2nd Test

Dec 26-30. MCG: Australia vs England, 3rd Test

Jan 05-09, SCG: Australia vs England, 4th Test

Jan 14-18, TBC: Australia vs England, 5th Test

Ashes 2021-22 Squads:

Australia Squad:&nbsp;Pat Cummins (C), Steve Smith (VC), Alex Carry (WK), Marcus Harris, Usman Khawaja, David Warner, Travis Head, Marnus Labuschagne, Michael Neser, Cameron Green, Jhye Richardson, Josh Hazlewood, Nathan Lyon, Mitchell Starc, Mitchell Swepson.

England Squad:&nbsp;Joe Root (C), Jos Buttler (WK), Jonny Bairstow (WK), Zak Crawley, Haseeb Hameed, Daniel Lawrence, Dawid Malan, Ben Stokes, Craig Overton, Chris Woakes, Rory Burns, Ollie Pope, James Anderson, Dominic Bess, Stuart Broad, Jack Leach, Ollie Robinson, Mark Wood

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/updated-world-test-championship-points-table-after-india-vs-new-zealand-series-434499">Updated World Test Championship points table after India vs New Zealand series</a>

Ashes 2021-22 Live Streaming &amp; Telecast:

For the unversed, Sony Sports Network has fetched the broadcasting rights for the 2021-22 Ashes Tests Down Under. Meanwhile, the live streaming of the series will be available on Sony Liv app.

Streaming platforms in other countries:

<ul>
	<li>Australia: Foxtel Go</li>
	<li>UK: BT Sports</li>
	<li>US and Canada: Willow TV</li>
	<li>New Zealand: Sky Sports</li>
	<li>South Africa: Supersport</li>
</ul>

England, who haven't won a Test in Australia since 2011, will start behind the Aussies due to home advantage. However, this Australian line-up can be defeated (as shown by a second-stringed India in 2020/21), hence, an exciting and riveting Ashes 2021/22 series is on the cards.&nbsp;

One of the most intense cricketing rivalries is all set to resume as the much-awaited Ashes 2021-22 opener will be held on December 8 (Wednesday) at The Gabba, Brisbane.

One of the most intense cricketing rivalries is all set to resume as the much-awaited Ashes 2021-22 opener will be held on December 8 (Wednesday) at The Gabba, Brisbane. The Ashes returns Down Under after a gap of four years as Pat Cummins & Co. will look to retain the urn versus Joe Root-led England following a 2-2 scoreline in Ashes 2019 in the United Kingdom. Ahead of the Ashes opener, Australia were dealt with a huge blow with regular captain Tim Paine resigning from the top job in the aftermath of the sexting scandal. In addition, he announced an indefinite break from international cricket as Cricket Australia (CA) announced Cummins as captain with former skipper Steve Smith returning back to leadership role as the new vice-captain. England, on the other hand, will also see the return of superstar all-rounder Ben Stokes, who is coming back from his indefinite break. James Anderson will be out of action in the series opener as the team management wants him to focus on the day-night Test at Adelaide Oval, Adelaide. Before the Ashes 2021-22 opener, here's all you need to know about the schedule, venues, dates, telecast, live streaming and other details: ALSO READ | ICC to announce T20 World Cup Australia full schedule on January 21 Ashes 2021-22 Schedule: Dec 08-12, The Gabba: Australia vs England, 1st Test Dec 16-20, Adelaide Oval, Adelaide: Australia vs England, 2nd Test Dec 26-30. MCG: Australia vs England, 3rd Test Jan 05-09, SCG: Australia vs England, 4th Test Jan 14-18, TBC: Australia vs England, 5th Test Ashes 2021-22 Squads: Australia Squad: Pat Cummins (C), Steve Smith (VC), Alex Carry (WK), Marcus Harris, Usman Khawaja, David Warner, Travis Head, Marnus Labuschagne, Michael Neser, Cameron Green, Jhye Richardson, Josh Hazlewood, Nathan Lyon, Mitchell Starc, Mitchell Swepson. England Squad: Joe Root (C), Jos Buttler (WK), Jonny Bairstow (WK), Zak Crawley, Haseeb Hameed, Daniel Lawrence, Dawid Malan, Ben Stokes, Craig Overton, Chris Woakes, Rory Burns, Ollie Pope, James Anderson, Dominic Bess, Stuart Broad, Jack Leach, Ollie Robinson, Mark Wood ALSO READ | Updated World Test Championship points table after India vs New Zealand series Ashes 2021-22 Live Streaming & Telecast: For the unversed, Sony Sports Network has fetched the broadcasting rights for the 2021-22 Ashes Tests Down Under. Meanwhile, the live streaming of the series will be available on Sony Liv app. Streaming platforms in other countries: Australia: Foxtel Go UK: BT Sports US and Canada: Willow TV New Zealand: Sky Sports South Africa: Supersport England, who haven't won a Test in Australia since 2011, will start behind the Aussies due to home advantage. However, this Australian line-up can be defeated (as shown by a second-stringed India in 2020/21), hence, an exciting and riveting Ashes 2021/22 series is on the cards.

Ashes 2021-22: Full schedule, squads, venues, telecast, live streaming as Aus-Eng resume intense rivalry

Newly-appointed Australian captain Pat Cummins revealed that he would enjoy taking the wicket of England captain Joe Root in the Ashes series, which is scheduled to start from December 8 in Brisbane.

Newly-appointed Australian captain Pat Cummins revealed that he would enjoy taking the wicket of England captain Joe Root in the Ashes series, which is scheduled to start from December 8 in Brisbane. The opening Test is going to be crucial for Joe Root & Co. as England haven't won a Test at Brisbane since 1986. Cummins has taken up the role of captain after Tim Paine stepped down due to a 'sexting' scandal. Talking about the Root's wicket, the pacer said, "I don't know if the captaincy brings a different element for me, but the last few series we've played against him he's always been our prized wicket." ALSO READ: Harbhajan Singh names replacement for Ajinkya Rahane: He could be India's 'perfect solution' "Not necessarily the one we talk about the most, but he's number one batter in the world at the minute, he's their captain. It's going to be a big battle ground for us," the captain added. If we talk about his captaincy, Cummins became the 47th captain of the Australian men's Test team. "I am honoured to accept this role ahead of what will be a massive Ashes summer," Meanwhile, Steve Smith has been named as the vice-captain as he returns to a key leadership role after the "Sandpaper-gate" ball-tampering scandal of 2018. 1st Test: Australia: Marcus Harris, David Warner, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith, Travis Head, Cameron Green, Alex Carey, Pat Cummins (capt), Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon, Josh Hazlewood. England: Joe Root (capt), James Anderson, Jonathan Bairstow, Dom Bess, Stuart Broad, Rory Burns, Jos Buttler, Zak Crawley, Haseeb Hameed, Dan Lawrence, Jack Leach, Dawid Malan, Craig Overton, Ollie Pope, Ollie Robinson, Ben Stokes, Chris Woakes, Mark Wood.

'Always been our prized wicket': Pat Cummins on England captain Joe Root's wicket

England test captain Joe Root has said he hoped to have a discussion with Azeem Rafiq after the Ashes series against Australia, which starts next month, on the former Yorkshire player`s allegations of institutional racism at the club. Rafiq, the 30-year-old former England Under-19s captain who is of Pakistani descent and played for Yorkshire from 2008-14, told a British parliamentary committee this month that he had suffered "inhuman" treatment in his time with the county.

Yorkshire player Root said he had never personally witnessed incidents of racism at the club, prompting Rafiq to say he was "incredibly hurt" by those words. "We`ve exchanged a couple of messages since ... and hopefully when we finish this tour we`ll get the opportunity to sit down and talk about this whole situation, about how we can move the game forward," Root told reporters.

"Along with talking to Azeem, I want to speak to (Yorkshire chairman) Kamlesh Patel... It`s important we keep finding ways of bettering the sport, and finding ways to individually affect things for the better and make a real change." 
Root, whose side take on Australia in the first of five Ashes tests starting on Dec. 8, said he stood by his statement of not personally witnessing racism at Yorkshire.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-am-sorry-for-the-hurt-michael-vaughan-apologises-to-azeem-rafiq-amid-racism-allegations-432353">'I am sorry for the hurt': Michael Vaughan apologises to Azeem Rafiq amid racism allegations</a>

"If they`re oversights on my part then that`s an area we all have to learn from and I have to learn from," Root added. 
"I think about things that have happened since then. There have been things that have happened on a cricket field where I feel like I have stepped in and called things out. "That comes from growth and learning, understanding and education. There`s still further education I need to undergo and develop myself further. Within our game ... everyone does."

England test captain Joe Root has said he hoped to have a discussion with Azeem Rafiq after the Ashes series against Australia, which starts next month, on the former Yorkshire player`s allegations of institutional racism at the club.

England test captain Joe Root has said he hoped to have a discussion with Azeem Rafiq after the Ashes series against Australia, which starts next month, on the former Yorkshire player`s allegations of institutional racism at the club. Rafiq, the 30-year-old former England Under-19s captain who is of Pakistani descent and played for Yorkshire from 2008-14, told a British parliamentary committee this month that he had suffered "inhuman" treatment in his time with the county. Yorkshire player Root said he had never personally witnessed incidents of racism at the club, prompting Rafiq to say he was "incredibly hurt" by those words. "We`ve exchanged a couple of messages since ... and hopefully when we finish this tour we`ll get the opportunity to sit down and talk about this whole situation, about how we can move the game forward," Root told reporters. "Along with talking to Azeem, I want to speak to (Yorkshire chairman) Kamlesh Patel... It`s important we keep finding ways of bettering the sport, and finding ways to individually affect things for the better and make a real change." Root, whose side take on Australia in the first of five Ashes tests starting on Dec. 8, said he stood by his statement of not personally witnessing racism at Yorkshire. ALSO READ | 'I am sorry for the hurt': Michael Vaughan apologises to Azeem Rafiq amid racism allegations "If they`re oversights on my part then that`s an area we all have to learn from and I have to learn from," Root added. "I think about things that have happened since then. There have been things that have happened on a cricket field where I feel like I have stepped in and called things out. "That comes from growth and learning, understanding and education. There`s still further education I need to undergo and develop myself further. Within our game ... everyone does."

England Test captain Joe Root hopes to talk with Azeem Rafiq over racism row

Former Pakistan skipper Salman Butt recently named the best captain between Virat Kohli, Kane Williamson and Joe Root. The trio is considered as part of the current fab four when it comes to the best batters in the world, and they have also been successful as leaders for their respective teams.

While Williamson leads New Zealand across formats, Kohli recently stepped down as the T20I captain of Team India and will now lead the team in only ODIs and Tests. Joe Root, on the other hand, captains England only in Tests. Butt rated all of them as brilliant captains but picked Williamson as the best across all formats.

"I think Kane Williamson is the best captain. Yes, Joe Root and Virat Kohli are brilliant as well, and they have led their sides superbly, but overall, generically, Williamson is the man when you consider all leaders across formats," Butt said responding to a query in a video on his YouTube channel.

Kohli has already become India's most successful Test captain since taking over from MS Dhoni in 2014. He has so far led India in 65 Tests and has 38 wins to his name - most by any Indian captain in Test history.

Root has 27 wins in 56 Tests for England while Williamson has so far led the Kiwis only in 37 Tests but has an impressive record with 22 wins. His win percentage of 59.45 is the best among the trio with Kohli just slightly behind at 58.46.

While both Kohli and Root are yet to win a major ICC trophy as captain, Williamson led New Zealand to a memorable triumph in the World Test Championship 2019-2021 making the Kiwis the champions of the inaugural edition. New Zealand have also made it to the finals of the last three major ICC events under Williamson's captaincy.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/team-indias-dietary-plan-with-halal-meat-and-no-beef-pork-only-for-kanpur-test-vs-new-zealand-report-431377">Team India's dietary plan with halal meat and no beef, pork only for Kanpur Test vs New Zealand - Report</a>

They made it to the final of the ODI World Cup in 2019 where they lost against England on the questionable ball-count rule before winning the World Test Championship this year. New Zealand then reached the final of the recently-concluded T20 World Cup 2021 and lost to Australia by eight wickets.

Former Pakistan skipper Salman Butt recently named the best captain between Virat Kohli, Kane Williamson and Joe Root. The trio is considered as part of the current fab four when it comes to the best batters in the world, and they have also been successful as leaders for their respective teams.

Former Pakistan skipper Salman Butt recently named the best captain between Virat Kohli, Kane Williamson and Joe Root. The trio is considered as part of the current fab four when it comes to the best batters in the world, and they have also been successful as leaders for their respective teams. While Williamson leads New Zealand across formats, Kohli recently stepped down as the T20I captain of Team India and will now lead the team in only ODIs and Tests. Joe Root, on the other hand, captains England only in Tests. Butt rated all of them as brilliant captains but picked Williamson as the best across all formats. "I think Kane Williamson is the best captain. Yes, Joe Root and Virat Kohli are brilliant as well, and they have led their sides superbly, but overall, generically, Williamson is the man when you consider all leaders across formats," Butt said responding to a query in a video on his YouTube channel. Kohli has already become India's most successful Test captain since taking over from MS Dhoni in 2014. He has so far led India in 65 Tests and has 38 wins to his name - most by any Indian captain in Test history. Root has 27 wins in 56 Tests for England while Williamson has so far led the Kiwis only in 37 Tests but has an impressive record with 22 wins. His win percentage of 59.45 is the best among the trio with Kohli just slightly behind at 58.46. While both Kohli and Root are yet to win a major ICC trophy as captain, Williamson led New Zealand to a memorable triumph in the World Test Championship 2019-2021 making the Kiwis the champions of the inaugural edition. New Zealand have also made it to the finals of the last three major ICC events under Williamson's captaincy. Also Read: Team India's dietary plan with halal meat and no beef, pork only for Kanpur Test vs New Zealand - Report They made it to the final of the ODI World Cup in 2019 where they lost against England on the questionable ball-count rule before winning the World Test Championship this year. New Zealand then reached the final of the recently-concluded T20 World Cup 2021 and lost to Australia by eight wickets.

Virat Kohli, Joe Root or Kane Williamson? Former Pakistan skipper picks best captain between the trio

From Michael Vaughan to Alex Hales: List of high-profile players named by Azeem Rafiq in Yorkshire racism row

Former India cricketer Aakash Chopra has pointed out the differences in the approach of the Indian cricket team and the England cricket team as the two sides enjoy contrasting campaigns at the ongoing T20 World Cup 2021. While India are on the verge of missing out on a spot in the semi-finals after two losses in their first three games, England have been unbeaten so far in their first four matches and have already qualified for the semis.

During a recent question and answer session on his YouTube channel, Chopra was asked about what India can learn from England's success in T20 World Cup 2021. Chopra responded by providing a detailed analysis of England have managed to become a force to reckon with in white-ball cricket.

Chopra explained how England have started picking players based on the demands of the format while keeping their reputation and form in other formats of the game aside. He called England's philosophy 'crystal clear'.

“This team goes with a philosophy. England have their priorities crystal clear and everyone seems to be moving in the same direction. They picked all-rounders by looking at performances from the county circuit, the Natwest T20 blast and The Hundred. They selected only white-ball players as per the demands of the format," said the former Indian cricketer.

He further went on to cite the example of Joe Root and claimed if the England Test skipper was an Indian, he would not only have been part of the Indian T20 team but also would have been leading the side at present. Root, who currently leads England in Tests, is not a part of the T20 World Cup 2021 squad.

“England did not take into consideration Test performances, no matter how good they were. Look at Joe Root’s case. If Joe Root was an Indian, do you think he would not have been part of the Indian T20 squad? I can give you in writing that Root would have been part of the team even if he had a strike rate of 125. He might even have been the captain of the T20 team. This is what India is all about. That is not how England thinks," Chopra said.

England had headed into the T20 World Cup this year without Jofra Archer and Ben Stokes, who are two of their best match-winners in white-ball cricket. However, they have barely missed the star duo and have been on a roll in the Super 12 stage of the tournament with four wins in a row. Chopra said Indan should learn from England and not form strategies around individuals but put a philosphy in place where they can use players as per their skills in a particular format.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ready-to-provide-evidence-ex-pakistan-pacer-says-he-heard-michael-vaughans-racist-comments-at-yorkshire-426965">Ready to provide evidence: Ex-Pakistan pacer says he heard Vaughan's racist comments at Yorkshire</a>

“They have a horses for courses policy. Dawid Malan is in the T20 squad but doesn’t play too many Tests. Moeen Ali and Adil Rashid have been told what is expected of them. Their priorities are very clear. That is why even if some players are missing, there is someone else who can get into that role very quickly and seamlessly. India will have to learn from this. You cannot make strategies centered around individuals. They should have a philosophy in place and fit the other things in. This is a sub-continent culture where individuals are given preference, which we need to move away from.”

Former India cricketer Aakash Chopra has pointed out the differences in the approach of the Indian cricket team and the England cricket team as the two sides enjoy contrasting campaigns at the ongoing T20 World Cup 2021.

Former India cricketer Aakash Chopra has pointed out the differences in the approach of the Indian cricket team and the England cricket team as the two sides enjoy contrasting campaigns at the ongoing T20 World Cup 2021. While India are on the verge of missing out on a spot in the semi-finals after two losses in their first three games, England have been unbeaten so far in their first four matches and have already qualified for the semis. During a recent question and answer session on his YouTube channel, Chopra was asked about what India can learn from England's success in T20 World Cup 2021. Chopra responded by providing a detailed analysis of England have managed to become a force to reckon with in white-ball cricket. Chopra explained how England have started picking players based on the demands of the format while keeping their reputation and form in other formats of the game aside. He called England's philosophy 'crystal clear'. “This team goes with a philosophy. England have their priorities crystal clear and everyone seems to be moving in the same direction. They picked all-rounders by looking at performances from the county circuit, the Natwest T20 blast and The Hundred. They selected only white-ball players as per the demands of the format," said the former Indian cricketer. He further went on to cite the example of Joe Root and claimed if the England Test skipper was an Indian, he would not only have been part of the Indian T20 team but also would have been leading the side at present. Root, who currently leads England in Tests, is not a part of the T20 World Cup 2021 squad. “England did not take into consideration Test performances, no matter how good they were. Look at Joe Root’s case. If Joe Root was an Indian, do you think he would not have been part of the Indian T20 squad? I can give you in writing that Root would have been part of the team even if he had a strike rate of 125. He might even have been the captain of the T20 team. This is what India is all about. That is not how England thinks," Chopra said. England had headed into the T20 World Cup this year without Jofra Archer and Ben Stokes, who are two of their best match-winners in white-ball cricket. However, they have barely missed the star duo and have been on a roll in the Super 12 stage of the tournament with four wins in a row. Chopra said Indan should learn from England and not form strategies around individuals but put a philosphy in place where they can use players as per their skills in a particular format. Also Read: Ready to provide evidence: Ex-Pakistan pacer says he heard Vaughan's racist comments at Yorkshire “They have a horses for courses policy. Dawid Malan is in the T20 squad but doesn’t play too many Tests. Moeen Ali and Adil Rashid have been told what is expected of them. Their priorities are very clear. That is why even if some players are missing, there is someone else who can get into that role very quickly and seamlessly. India will have to learn from this. You cannot make strategies centered around individuals. They should have a philosophy in place and fit the other things in. This is a sub-continent culture where individuals are given preference, which we need to move away from.”

'If Joe Root was Indian, he might be leading T20 team' - Aakash Chopra on what India can learn from England

England captain Joe Root has welcomed Ben Stokes`s return to the Ashes squad, saying that it`s the most exciting thing for him to see star all-rounder`s return to cricket. 
 
Stokes had taken an indefinite break from cricket in July to focus on his mental health and recover from a finger injury. He was not included in England's initial squad for the Ashes 2021-22 series. 
 
However, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) later announced that Stokes would be available for the series, which is due to start on December 8.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/youll-have-to-face-the-nation-md-azharuddin-slams-virat-kohli-for-skipping-presser-after-nz-loss-425910">You'll have to face the nation: Md Azharuddin slams Virat Kohli for skipping presser after NZ loss</a>

"I'd got an inkling. I`d had some good conversations with Ben over the period while he`s not been playing. It was just such a joy to hear him speak, you could almost hear his smile, if that makes sense, on the phone. You could tell he was so much happier within himself," Root told the Guardian. 
 
"Just the fact he feels he's in a place where he`s ready to play cricket again is the most exciting thing," he added. 
 
The England captain also praised Stokes`s honesty, adding that they made it very clear to him that he has to be in the right space to go and play.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-looked-jaded-dilip-vengsarkar-slams-kohli-co-feels-r-ashwins-snub-is-a-matter-of-investigation-425929">India looked jaded: Dilip Vengsarkar slams Kohli &amp; Co., feels R Ashwin's snub is a 'matter of investigation'</a>

"We made it very clear to Ben, it`s got to be right for you. You have to be in the right space to go and play, physically and mentally. One thing about Ben, he`s very honest, he won`t shirk any difficult conversations and he`s been true to that through the whole thing," said Root. 
 
"We have been through a lot on and off the field. To see him now back in a place where he is able to enjoy his cricket again and feel more`himself, that`s the best part of the whole thing. It`s just really exciting," he added.

England captain Joe Root has welcomed Ben Stokes`s return to the Ashes squad, saying that it`s the most exciting thing for him to see star all-rounder`s return to cricket.

England captain Joe Root has welcomed Ben Stokes`s return to the Ashes squad, saying that it`s the most exciting thing for him to see star all-rounder`s return to cricket. Stokes had taken an indefinite break from cricket in July to focus on his mental health and recover from a finger injury. He was not included in England's initial squad for the Ashes 2021-22 series. However, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) later announced that Stokes would be available for the series, which is due to start on December 8. ALSO READ: You'll have to face the nation: Md Azharuddin slams Virat Kohli for skipping presser after NZ loss "I'd got an inkling. I`d had some good conversations with Ben over the period while he`s not been playing. It was just such a joy to hear him speak, you could almost hear his smile, if that makes sense, on the phone. You could tell he was so much happier within himself," Root told the Guardian. "Just the fact he feels he's in a place where he`s ready to play cricket again is the most exciting thing," he added. The England captain also praised Stokes`s honesty, adding that they made it very clear to him that he has to be in the right space to go and play. ALSO READ: India looked jaded: Dilip Vengsarkar slams Kohli & Co., feels R Ashwin's snub is a 'matter of investigation' "We made it very clear to Ben, it`s got to be right for you. You have to be in the right space to go and play, physically and mentally. One thing about Ben, he`s very honest, he won`t shirk any difficult conversations and he`s been true to that through the whole thing," said Root. "We have been through a lot on and off the field. To see him now back in a place where he is able to enjoy his cricket again and feel more`himself, that`s the best part of the whole thing. It`s just really exciting," he added.

Ashes 2021: England skipper Joe Root welcomes Ben Stokes after all-rounder's finger injury

England Cricket Board (ECB) on Friday (October 22) announced that the fifth of the five-match Test series between India and England has been rescheduled. It will now take place in July 2022.

The match, which was due to take place last month at Old Trafford, was called off due to the emergence of coronavirus (COVID-19) cases in the Indian camp.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/will-be-great-if-i-can-open-in-test-matches-for-team-india-says-washington-sundar-422938">Will be great if I can open in Test matches for Team India, says Washington Sundar</a>

The official site of ECB stated: "The concluding fifth match will now take place from July 1, 2022, at Edgbaston, following an agreement between the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI)."

India was leading the series 2-1 heading into the Old Trafford Test last month but the match was cancelled barely two hours before its scheduled start.&nbsp;

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The fifth match of our Men's LV= Insurance Test Series against India has been rescheduled and will now take place in July 2022.
— England Cricket (@englandcricket) <a href="https://twitter.com/englandcricket/status/1451518701161832461?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 22, 2021</a></blockquote>
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ECB chief executive Tom Harrison said: "We are very pleased that we have reached an agreement with BCCI to creating a fitting end to what has been a brilliant series so far."

In the aftermath, it was revealed that the abandonment estimated to have cost English cricket up to £40 million ($55 million), with the Old Trafford owners Lancashire losing several million pounds.

There had been hopes the match might be restaged at Old Trafford but pre-planned events at the venue mean there will not be time to prepare a Test pitch.

Instead the fixture has been switched to Edgbaston, with the second Test between England and South Africa that had been due to be played at Warwickshire's headquarters now being staged at Old Trafford from August 25, 2022.

England Cricket Board (ECB) on Friday (October 22) announced that the fifth of the five-match Test series between India and England has been rescheduled. It will now take place in July 2022.

England Cricket Board (ECB) on Friday (October 22) announced that the fifth of the five-match Test series between India and England has been rescheduled. It will now take place in July 2022. The match, which was due to take place last month at Old Trafford, was called off due to the emergence of coronavirus (COVID-19) cases in the Indian camp. ALSO READ | Will be great if I can open in Test matches for Team India, says Washington Sundar The official site of ECB stated: "The concluding fifth match will now take place from July 1, 2022, at Edgbaston, following an agreement between the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI)." India was leading the series 2-1 heading into the Old Trafford Test last month but the match was cancelled barely two hours before its scheduled start. The fifth match of our Men's LV= Insurance Test Series against India has been rescheduled and will now take place in July 2022. — England Cricket (@englandcricket) October 22, 2021 × ECB chief executive Tom Harrison said: "We are very pleased that we have reached an agreement with BCCI to creating a fitting end to what has been a brilliant series so far." In the aftermath, it was revealed that the abandonment estimated to have cost English cricket up to £40 million ($55 million), with the Old Trafford owners Lancashire losing several million pounds. There had been hopes the match might be restaged at Old Trafford but pre-planned events at the venue mean there will not be time to prepare a Test pitch. Instead the fixture has been switched to Edgbaston, with the second Test between England and South Africa that had been due to be played at Warwickshire's headquarters now being staged at Old Trafford from August 25, 2022.

England vs India: Fifth and final Test match to be played in July 2022 at Edgbaston

England have finally named their squad for the Ashes tour to Australia, a series that was shadowed by the clouds of uncertainty a few days back after some English players raised concerns over tough COVID-19 quarantine rules in the visiting country.

England have finally named their squad for the Ashes tour to Australia, a series that was shadowed by the clouds of uncertainty a few days back after some English players raised concerns over tough COVID-19 quarantine rules in the visiting country. On Sunday (October 10), the head coach of the England cricket team, Chris Silverwood, named a 17-player squad for the Ashes tour starting in November. The official site of the England Cricket Board (ECB) mentioned that all 17 players have been capped at Test level and it is the strongest available squad. Ten of the 17 will be touring Australia in an Ashes series for the first time, including vice-captain Jos Buttler. England Test captain Joe Root and Buttler have been selected despite their recent remarks that they might not travel if their fears were not eased. EXCLUSIVE | DC's assistant coach opines on Rishabh Pant's captaincy, Delhi's 2-0 edge vs CSK before playoffs Who will be our most important players as we try to win back the urn this winter? 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿🏏 pic.twitter.com/6xYzVWlAc3 — England Cricket (@englandcricket) October 10, 2021 × Who will be our most important players as we try to win back the urn this winter? 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿🏏 pic.twitter.com/6xYzVWlAc3 — England Cricket (@englandcricket) October 10, 2021 × Seamer Stuart Broad was included despite the calf injury he picked up in the Test series against India on the other hand all-rounders Ben Stokes and Sam Curran missed out. The squad included recalls for batsman Zak Crawley and spinner Dom Bess and Essex batsman Dan Lawrence the most eye-catching selection. Fast bowler Jofra Archer was also unavailable after he suffered a recurrence of a stress fracture in his elbow and Olly Stone was ruled out with a back injury. James Anderson and Broad head up the seam bowling for what may well be their Ashes swansongs, with support from fellow pacemen Chris Woakes, Mark Wood and Ollie Robinson. Haseeb Hameed travels despite missing out on a central contract this week. ALSO READ | David Warner leaving SRH? Australian star's heartfelt post on Instagram hints at his exit The tour looked doubtful when players sought assurances for their family members to be allowed to join them for the series over the Christmas and New Year period. But following a breakthrough in talks with Cricket Australia, the England and Wales Cricket Board on Friday said they had given "conditional approval" for the tour to go ahead. The first test is due to begin in Brisbane on Dec. 8, followed by a day-night match in Adelaide from Dec. 16 before the traditional Boxing Day test in Melbourne. Sydney will host the fourth match and the final test will be in Perth starting on Jan. 14. Australia retained the Ashes when the teams last met in 2019 in England after a 2-2 series draw. Here's the full squad: England: Joe Root (captain), James Anderson, Jonathan Bairstow, Dom Bess, Stuart Broad, Rory Burns, Jos Buttler, Zak Crawley, Haseeb Hameed, Dan Lawrence, Jack Leach, Dawid Malan, Craig Overton, Ollie Pope, Ollie Robinson, Chris Woakes, Mark Wood

With an aim to win back the urn, England name strongest available squad for Ashes tour

Former England captain Michael Vaughan has slammed Australia Test captain Tim Paine over his recent comments on the upcoming Ashes 2021. Paine had said the Ashes will go ahead irrespective of England captain Joe Root and other English star players' availability for the much-awaited series. Paine drew a lot of flak for his comments on the England team and was also bashed by the Barmy Army.

Vaughan has now joined the bandwagon and has said Paine lacked 'class' in his comments while insisting that the Australian Test skipper hasn't had to go through what Root and other England players have been through by playing cricket in strict bio-bubbles for months. Vaughan believes Paine should have shown some empathy as a Test captain and should not have said what he said.

“As a Test match captain, you have to show a bit of empathy. In the last two years, he hasn’t taken his team overseas. He hasn’t had to go through what these England players have gone through. He hasn’t gone through what Joe Root has gone through. He plays only one format of the game. I do believe he showed a bit of lack of class,” Michael Vaughan told ABC Sports.

“I don’t think that went down well with the players. There is a huge amount of respect between the two sides. And particularly, anyone that’s captain of an international side, I personally think he didn’t need to say what he said," he added.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ive-got-1534-more-runs-than-aussie-skipper-tim-paine-takes-a-jibe-at-barmy-army-ahead-of-ashes-2021-419177">'I`ve got 1,534 more runs than....' - Aussie skipper Tim Paine takes a jibe at Barmy Army ahead of Ashes 2021</a>

Unlike England, who had travelled to India, and Sri Lanka for a Test series earlier this year, Australia last played a Test series away from home in 2019 when Paine &amp; Co. had travelled to England for the Ashes. There has been a lot of debate surrounding the fate of Ashes 2021 but England Cricket Board have given conditional approval for the tour.

"Well, the Ashes are going ahead -- the first Test is on December 8 whether Joe's here or not," Paine had earlier&nbsp;told SEN sports radio,. His comments did not go down well with former England cricketers and English supporters, who have lashed out at the Aussie skipper.

Former England captain Michael Vaughan has slammed Australia Test captain Tim Paine over his recent comments on the upcoming Ashes 2021. Paine had said the Ashes will go ahead irrespective of England captain Joe Root and other English star players' availability for the much-awaited series.

Former England captain Michael Vaughan has slammed Australia Test captain Tim Paine over his recent comments on the upcoming Ashes 2021. Paine had said the Ashes will go ahead irrespective of England captain Joe Root and other English star players' availability for the much-awaited series. Paine drew a lot of flak for his comments on the England team and was also bashed by the Barmy Army. Vaughan has now joined the bandwagon and has said Paine lacked 'class' in his comments while insisting that the Australian Test skipper hasn't had to go through what Root and other England players have been through by playing cricket in strict bio-bubbles for months. Vaughan believes Paine should have shown some empathy as a Test captain and should not have said what he said. “As a Test match captain, you have to show a bit of empathy. In the last two years, he hasn’t taken his team overseas. He hasn’t had to go through what these England players have gone through. He hasn’t gone through what Joe Root has gone through. He plays only one format of the game. I do believe he showed a bit of lack of class,” Michael Vaughan told ABC Sports. “I don’t think that went down well with the players. There is a huge amount of respect between the two sides. And particularly, anyone that’s captain of an international side, I personally think he didn’t need to say what he said," he added. Also Read: 'I`ve got 1,534 more runs than....' - Aussie skipper Tim Paine takes a jibe at Barmy Army ahead of Ashes 2021 Unlike England, who had travelled to India, and Sri Lanka for a Test series earlier this year, Australia last played a Test series away from home in 2019 when Paine & Co. had travelled to England for the Ashes. There has been a lot of debate surrounding the fate of Ashes 2021 but England Cricket Board have given conditional approval for the tour. "Well, the Ashes are going ahead -- the first Test is on December 8 whether Joe's here or not," Paine had earlier told SEN sports radio,. His comments did not go down well with former England cricketers and English supporters, who have lashed out at the Aussie skipper.

'He showed a bit of lack of class': Michael Vaughan slams Australia captain Tim Paine over Ashes remarks

Despite some England players expressing concerns over the upcoming Ashes series due to strict COVID-19 quarantine restrictions in Australia, England have committed to the tour. British media reported that the squad's concerns over Covid conditions were resolved at a meeting between the countries' cricket boards and England captain Joe Root on Tuesday (October 5).&nbsp;

The Daily Telegraph reported that Root has confirmed his participation in the five-Test series at the meeting and will likely be joined by a full-strength squad. Although, there isn't any official statement over the tour.&nbsp;

England players had sought assurances for their family members to be allowed to join them for the series over the Christmas and New Year period. The series is scheduled to start in Brisbane on December 8. Australia.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ian-botham-questions-england-desire-for-ultimate-ashes-test-418714">Ian Botham questions England desire for 'ultimate' Ashes Test</a>

Australia has largely sealed its borders to international travellers during the Covid pandemic but Prime Minister Scott Morrison had said it would be "flexible and practical" over the tour.&nbsp;

Recently, Australian Test captain Tim Paine said the tour will go ahead after players like Root, vice-captain Jos Buttler, pacer Stuart Broad expressed concerns.&nbsp;

On the other hand, Australia's one-day international captain Aaron Finch said he sympathised "fully" with England players' concerns but was glad to hear a resolution had been reached.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/the-reason-why-he-is-more-successful-gautam-gambhir-opens-up-on-virat-kohlis-playing-style-418690">'The reason why he is more successful': Gautam Gambhir opens up on Virat Kohli's playing style</a>

"They’ve played a lot of test cricket so I can understand where they’re coming from," Finch told reporters on Wednesday in a video call.

"Guys are on the road for a lot longer than what tours used to go (for) when you’re adding on quarantine at the start and potentially at the end. That is difficult but it’s great to see Joe’s (Root) supported that and they’re going to come down," Finch added.&nbsp;

Australia are the current holders of the Ashes after retaining the urn following a 2-2 draw in England in 2019. They won the last series "Down Under" 4-0 in 2017/18.&nbsp;

Despite some England players expressing concerns over the upcoming Ashes series due to strict COVID-19 quarantine restrictions in Australia, England have committed to the tour.

Despite some England players expressing concerns over the upcoming Ashes series due to strict COVID-19 quarantine restrictions in Australia, England have committed to the tour. British media reported that the squad's concerns over Covid conditions were resolved at a meeting between the countries' cricket boards and England captain Joe Root on Tuesday (October 5). The Daily Telegraph reported that Root has confirmed his participation in the five-Test series at the meeting and will likely be joined by a full-strength squad. Although, there isn't any official statement over the tour. England players had sought assurances for their family members to be allowed to join them for the series over the Christmas and New Year period. The series is scheduled to start in Brisbane on December 8. Australia. ALSO READ | Ian Botham questions England desire for 'ultimate' Ashes Test Australia has largely sealed its borders to international travellers during the Covid pandemic but Prime Minister Scott Morrison had said it would be "flexible and practical" over the tour. Recently, Australian Test captain Tim Paine said the tour will go ahead after players like Root, vice-captain Jos Buttler, pacer Stuart Broad expressed concerns. On the other hand, Australia's one-day international captain Aaron Finch said he sympathised "fully" with England players' concerns but was glad to hear a resolution had been reached. ALSO READ | 'The reason why he is more successful': Gautam Gambhir opens up on Virat Kohli's playing style "They’ve played a lot of test cricket so I can understand where they’re coming from," Finch told reporters on Wednesday in a video call. "Guys are on the road for a lot longer than what tours used to go (for) when you’re adding on quarantine at the start and potentially at the end. That is difficult but it’s great to see Joe’s (Root) supported that and they’re going to come down," Finch added. Australia are the current holders of the Ashes after retaining the urn following a 2-2 draw in England in 2019. They won the last series "Down Under" 4-0 in 2017/18.

Joe Root confirms participation, England committed to Ashes series: Report

Amid England players expressing doubts over the upcoming Ashes series, the Australian Test captain&nbsp;Tim&nbsp;Paine said the tour will go ahead regardless of talks over strict COVID-19 quarantine restrictions.&nbsp; Australia has caps on international arrivals and there is a mandatory 14-day hotel quarantine even for the fully vaccinated.&nbsp;

England skipper Joe Root, vice-captain Jos Buttler, pacer Stuart Broad are among players, who have expressed their concerns and sought assurances for their family members to be allowed to join them for the series, which is scheduled to start in Brisbane on December 8. &nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indias-punam-raut-walks-off-despite-being-given-not-out-in-pink-ball-test-against-australia-watch-417426">India's Punam Raut walks off despite being given not-out in Pink-ball Test against Australia - WATCH</a>

"The Ashes are going ahead. The first test is on Dec. 8 -- whether Joe is here or not," Paine told radio station, SEN Hobart.

"It'll be worked out above us and then they’ll have a choice whether to get on that plane or not.

"No one is forcing any England player to come. That's the beauty of the world we live in -- you have a choice. If you don’t want to come, don't come."

Recently, former England batsman Kevin Pietersen said England players should not travel if placed under any restrictions. "There is NO WAY I would go to The Ashes this winter. ZERO chance!" he tweeted.

"Unless, the ridiculous quarantine rules were squashed and my family could travel with zero restrictions."

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pakistans-inability-to-play-bilateral-cricket-against-india-has-cost-them-millions-of-dollars-former-england-captain-417349">Pakistan's inability to play bilateral cricket against India has cost them millions of dollars: Former England captain</a>

Responding to the same, Paine said, "If you want to know anything on any topic in the world, you just ask Kevin Pietersen. He is an expert on everything."

"We have not heard one England player come out and say they will not be coming. I think it‘s been beat up and people like Kevin like to get themselves a little bit of exposure in the media," he added.&nbsp;

Pietersen again tweeted, saying, "To be fair to @tdpaine36, it is up to the players to make the decisions on The Ashes tour, not ex has-beens! Hopefully there’ll be a positive outcome over the weekend. The Ashes is the greatest rivalry &amp; battle in Test match cricket - and we need Test Match cricket to survive!"

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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To be fair to <a href="https://twitter.com/tdpaine36?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@tdpaine36</a>, it is up to the players to make the decisions on The Ashes tour, not ex has-beens! 
Hopefully there’ll be a positive outcome over the weekend. The Ashes is the greatest rivalry &amp; battle in Test match cricket - and we need Test Match cricket to survive! 🙏🏽
— Kevin Pietersen🦏 (@KP24) <a href="https://twitter.com/KP24/status/1443875025409527820?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 1, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Recently, Australia's Prime Minister Scott Morrison had warned that England's cricketers and their families will be given "no special deals" over quarantine.&nbsp;

His remarks came after meeting with British Prime Minister Boris Johnson in Washington DC, following their trips to the United Nations General Assembly in New York.&nbsp;

Although, the England and Wales Cricket Board are "very confident" the Ashes series will go ahead as planned amid Australia's tight border controls.&nbsp;

Amid England players expressing doubts over the upcoming Ashes series, the Australian Test captain Tim Paine said the tour will go ahead regardless of talks over strict COVID-19 quarantine restrictions.

Amid England players expressing doubts over the upcoming Ashes series, the Australian Test captain Tim Paine said the tour will go ahead regardless of talks over strict COVID-19 quarantine restrictions. Australia has caps on international arrivals and there is a mandatory 14-day hotel quarantine even for the fully vaccinated. England skipper Joe Root, vice-captain Jos Buttler, pacer Stuart Broad are among players, who have expressed their concerns and sought assurances for their family members to be allowed to join them for the series, which is scheduled to start in Brisbane on December 8. ALSO READ | India's Punam Raut walks off despite being given not-out in Pink-ball Test against Australia - WATCH "The Ashes are going ahead. The first test is on Dec. 8 -- whether Joe is here or not," Paine told radio station, SEN Hobart. "It'll be worked out above us and then they’ll have a choice whether to get on that plane or not. "No one is forcing any England player to come. That's the beauty of the world we live in -- you have a choice. If you don’t want to come, don't come." Recently, former England batsman Kevin Pietersen said England players should not travel if placed under any restrictions. "There is NO WAY I would go to The Ashes this winter. ZERO chance!" he tweeted. "Unless, the ridiculous quarantine rules were squashed and my family could travel with zero restrictions." ALSO READ | Pakistan's inability to play bilateral cricket against India has cost them millions of dollars: Former England captain Responding to the same, Paine said, "If you want to know anything on any topic in the world, you just ask Kevin Pietersen. He is an expert on everything." "We have not heard one England player come out and say they will not be coming. I think it‘s been beat up and people like Kevin like to get themselves a little bit of exposure in the media," he added. Pietersen again tweeted, saying, "To be fair to @tdpaine36, it is up to the players to make the decisions on The Ashes tour, not ex has-beens! Hopefully there’ll be a positive outcome over the weekend. The Ashes is the greatest rivalry & battle in Test match cricket - and we need Test Match cricket to survive!" To be fair to @tdpaine36, it is up to the players to make the decisions on The Ashes tour, not ex has-beens! Hopefully there’ll be a positive outcome over the weekend. The Ashes is the greatest rivalry & battle in Test match cricket - and we need Test Match cricket to survive! 🙏🏽 — Kevin Pietersen🦏 (@KP24) October 1, 2021 × Recently, Australia's Prime Minister Scott Morrison had warned that England's cricketers and their families will be given "no special deals" over quarantine. His remarks came after meeting with British Prime Minister Boris Johnson in Washington DC, following their trips to the United Nations General Assembly in New York. Although, the England and Wales Cricket Board are "very confident" the Ashes series will go ahead as planned amid Australia's tight border controls.

Tim Paine says Ashes going ahead, with or without Joe Root, slams 'expert on everything' Kevin Pietersen

The last quarter&nbsp;of 2021 promises to provide plenty of cricketing action for the gentlemen's game's ardent lovers worldwide with IPL 2021, T20 World Cup and Ashes 2021 on cards. However, the fate of Ashes 2021 hangs in the balance as Joe Root &amp; Co. could boycott this year's Ashes citing strict bio-bubble life Down Under.

According to ESPN Cricinfo, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) remain adamant and have not given much thought about postponement, which has not been received well by the senior players and support staff.

"The prospect of England fielding a significantly under-strength squad in the Ashes would appear to have grown following talks between the team and officials at the ECB," the website reported. "As a result, they are considering their options. One of those options is understood to be the entire team - including coaching and support staff - taking a collective decision to boycott the tour.

"While the players appear, in general, fairly sanguine about the prospect of a two-week quarantine for themselves, they are reluctant to put their families through it. And with some players away for the best part of four months (the IPL being followed by the T20 World Cup and the Ashes), they are understandably reluctant not to see their families for the entire period," it stated.

Strict quarantine rules Down Under

It also reported, "The nature of the quarantine is also understood to have disappointed the players. Although there has been talk of allowing them the use of a resort hotel on the Gold Coast, it is now understood they are likely to be permitted only two or three hours out of their hotel rooms each day for training.

"There is also a possibility the squad will be obliged to remain in some sort of 'bubble' throughout the tour to avoid difficulties in moving between states. Families, meanwhile, could still be required to undergo a 'hard' quarantine involving 14 days in a hotel room."

Even during India's tour of Australia last year, the bio-bubble life had taken a toll on the Indian cricketers and many had opened up about how tough it had become for them by the end of the tour.&nbsp;

Thus, it remains to be seen how the forthcoming Ashes 2021 will go ahead or will Root &amp; Co. simply boycott the upcoming edition. For the unversed, Ashes 2019 had ended in a 2-2 scoreline, which provided enthralling contest between bat and ball throughout the English summer.

The last quarter of 2021 promises to provide plenty of cricketing action for the gentlemen's game's ardent lovers worldwide with IPL 2021, T20 World Cup and Ashes 2021 on cards.

The last quarter of 2021 promises to provide plenty of cricketing action for the gentlemen's game's ardent lovers worldwide with IPL 2021, T20 World Cup and Ashes 2021 on cards. However, the fate of Ashes 2021 hangs in the balance as Joe Root & Co. could boycott this year's Ashes citing strict bio-bubble life Down Under. According to ESPN Cricinfo, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) remain adamant and have not given much thought about postponement, which has not been received well by the senior players and support staff. "The prospect of England fielding a significantly under-strength squad in the Ashes would appear to have grown following talks between the team and officials at the ECB," the website reported. "As a result, they are considering their options. One of those options is understood to be the entire team - including coaching and support staff - taking a collective decision to boycott the tour. "While the players appear, in general, fairly sanguine about the prospect of a two-week quarantine for themselves, they are reluctant to put their families through it. And with some players away for the best part of four months (the IPL being followed by the T20 World Cup and the Ashes), they are understandably reluctant not to see their families for the entire period," it stated. Strict quarantine rules Down Under It also reported, "The nature of the quarantine is also understood to have disappointed the players. Although there has been talk of allowing them the use of a resort hotel on the Gold Coast, it is now understood they are likely to be permitted only two or three hours out of their hotel rooms each day for training. "There is also a possibility the squad will be obliged to remain in some sort of 'bubble' throughout the tour to avoid difficulties in moving between states. Families, meanwhile, could still be required to undergo a 'hard' quarantine involving 14 days in a hotel room." Even during India's tour of Australia last year, the bio-bubble life had taken a toll on the Indian cricketers and many had opened up about how tough it had become for them by the end of the tour. Thus, it remains to be seen how the forthcoming Ashes 2021 will go ahead or will Root & Co. simply boycott the upcoming edition. For the unversed, Ashes 2019 had ended in a 2-2 scoreline, which provided enthralling contest between bat and ball throughout the English summer.

Joe Root-led England on verge of boycotting Ashes 2021 citing strict bio-bubble life: Reports

India and England will lock horns with each other for one final time in the 2021 English summer as the fifth and final Test commences from September 10 (Friday). With Virat Kohli-led India having an unassailable 2-1 lead in the five Tests, after a splendid 157-run win in the penultimate encounter, they will start as favourites but England's ability to bounce back cannot be ruled out as well.

The fifth and final Test was under the scanner after a Covid case emerged out from the Indian camp on Thursday (September 9). India's physio&nbsp;Vijay Parmar, as per ESPNCricinfo, had tested positive which led to the visitors' cancelling their training session and media commitments. However, with Indian players' subsequent PCR tests turning out to be negative, the fifth Test is now underway and promises to provide another blockbuster contest between two top sides.

<h2>Here's all you need to know about the fifth Test between India and England:</h2>

<h2>Where will England vs India 5th Test match be played?</h2>

The England vs India 5th Test match will be played at Old Trafford, in Manchester.

<h2>When will England vs India 5th Test match be played?</h2>

The England vs India 5th Test match will be played between September 10&nbsp;to September 14.

<h2>What time will England vs India 5th Test match begin?</h2>

The England vs India 5th Test match will begin at 3:30 PM IST.

<h2>Which TV channels will broadcast England vs India 5th Test match?</h2>

The England vs India 5th Test match will be broadcast live on Sony Sports Network.

<h2>Where to watch live streaming of England vs India 5th Test match?</h2>

The live streaming for England vs India 5th Test match will be available on Sony Liv.

For the unversed, India have never won a Test at the venue. Hence, if they win their first-ever game at Old Trafford, Manchester, Kohli &amp; Co. will create history and also win India its first-ever Test series on English soil after 2007.

India and England will lock horns with each other for one final time in the 2021 English summer as the fifth and final Test commences from September 10 (Friday).

India and England will lock horns with each other for one final time in the 2021 English summer as the fifth and final Test commences from September 10 (Friday). With Virat Kohli-led India having an unassailable 2-1 lead in the five Tests, after a splendid 157-run win in the penultimate encounter, they will start as favourites but England's ability to bounce back cannot be ruled out as well. The fifth and final Test was under the scanner after a Covid case emerged out from the Indian camp on Thursday (September 9). India's physio Vijay Parmar, as per ESPNCricinfo, had tested positive which led to the visitors' cancelling their training session and media commitments. However, with Indian players' subsequent PCR tests turning out to be negative, the fifth Test is now underway and promises to provide another blockbuster contest between two top sides. Here's all you need to know about the fifth Test between India and England: Where will England vs India 5th Test match be played? The England vs India 5th Test match will be played at Old Trafford, in Manchester. When will England vs India 5th Test match be played? The England vs India 5th Test match will be played between September 10 to September 14. What time will England vs India 5th Test match begin? The England vs India 5th Test match will begin at 3:30 PM IST. Which TV channels will broadcast England vs India 5th Test match? The England vs India 5th Test match will be broadcast live on Sony Sports Network. Where to watch live streaming of England vs India 5th Test match? The live streaming for England vs India 5th Test match will be available on Sony Liv. For the unversed, India have never won a Test at the venue. Hence, if they win their first-ever game at Old Trafford, Manchester, Kohli & Co. will create history and also win India its first-ever Test series on English soil after 2007.

India vs England 2021, 5th Test, Live Streaming: When and where to watch IND vs ENG?

Joe Root said England must carefully manage James Anderson's workload as they try to avoid a series defeat by India in the fifth Test at Old Trafford starting Friday.

England great Anderson bowled 47 overs for just two wickets during a 157-run loss in the fourth Test at the Oval and sent down 33 overs during India's second innings alone, which lasted more than 11 hours.

The 39-year-old paceman's heavy workload after playing in four back-to-back Tests has prompted concern about his fitness and ability to lead England's attack at his Manchester home ground, with the hosts now 2-1 down in a five-match series.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-england-dressing-room-scenes-go-viral-after-virat-kohli-led-team-india-win-the-oval-test-watch-411364">India vs England: Dressing room scenes go viral after Virat Kohli-led Team India win The Oval Test - Watch</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;

And with a tour of Australia on the horizon, England will want the experience of Test cricket's most successful fast bowler when trying to regain the Ashes 'Down Under'.

"You have to weigh everything up and take everything into account to make sure physically he (Anderson) is in the right place and feels he can get through it," said England captain Root after Monday's emphatic reverse.

'Balancing act'

"If he goes down injured, it leaves us in a difficult place for the rest of the game and for the winter," he added, with Anderson's career tally of 632 Test wickets third in the all-time list behind two retired spinners in Sri Lanka's Muttiah Muralitharan (800 Test wickets) and Australia's Shane Warne (708).

"Ultimately, we've got to find a way of winning -- it's a delicate balancing act."

England have seen fast bowlers Stuart Broad, Jofra Archer, Mark Wood, Olly Stone and Chris Woakes all sidelined in recent times, although Woakes returned at the Oval.

Meanwhile, Craig Overton's availability for the fifth Test is now in doubt after he received a nasty blow to the arm when being dismissed by Umesh Yadav on Monday.

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"It's been frustrating, the amount of injuries we've had to contend with. It's part and parcel of the game and the current climate we're living in," Root said.

"We have to make sure we're doing everything in the interest of the players and give ourselves the best chance of winning at the same time.

"It's been a tough summer. It's been a gruelling schedule, some wonderful cricket and highly intense cricket," he explained.&nbsp;

"It's part and parcel of a Test match and something you've got to be able to manage."

Having lost 1-0 in a two-match series to World Test Championship winners New Zealand earlier in the season, Root is keen to avoid another similar defeat by India.

"It's going to be really important we bounce back very quickly just like we did a week ago," said Root, whose side recovered from a 151-run defeat by India in the second Test to win the third by an innings and 76 runs at his Headingley home ground.&nbsp;

"We will make sure at Old Trafford we have got that bit between our teeth and bounce back."

Joe Root said England must carefully manage James Anderson's workload as they try to avoid a series defeat by India in the fifth Test at Old Trafford starting Friday.

Joe Root said England must carefully manage James Anderson's workload as they try to avoid a series defeat by India in the fifth Test at Old Trafford starting Friday. England great Anderson bowled 47 overs for just two wickets during a 157-run loss in the fourth Test at the Oval and sent down 33 overs during India's second innings alone, which lasted more than 11 hours. The 39-year-old paceman's heavy workload after playing in four back-to-back Tests has prompted concern about his fitness and ability to lead England's attack at his Manchester home ground, with the hosts now 2-1 down in a five-match series. ALSO READ | India vs England: Dressing room scenes go viral after Virat Kohli-led Team India win The Oval Test - Watch And with a tour of Australia on the horizon, England will want the experience of Test cricket's most successful fast bowler when trying to regain the Ashes 'Down Under'. "You have to weigh everything up and take everything into account to make sure physically he (Anderson) is in the right place and feels he can get through it," said England captain Root after Monday's emphatic reverse. 'Balancing act' "If he goes down injured, it leaves us in a difficult place for the rest of the game and for the winter," he added, with Anderson's career tally of 632 Test wickets third in the all-time list behind two retired spinners in Sri Lanka's Muttiah Muralitharan (800 Test wickets) and Australia's Shane Warne (708). "Ultimately, we've got to find a way of winning -- it's a delicate balancing act." England have seen fast bowlers Stuart Broad, Jofra Archer, Mark Wood, Olly Stone and Chris Woakes all sidelined in recent times, although Woakes returned at the Oval. Meanwhile, Craig Overton's availability for the fifth Test is now in doubt after he received a nasty blow to the arm when being dismissed by Umesh Yadav on Monday. ALSO READ | 'Captain Courageous': Wasim Jaffer reframes headline slamming Virat Kohli who trolled Barmy Army at The Oval "It's been frustrating, the amount of injuries we've had to contend with. It's part and parcel of the game and the current climate we're living in," Root said. "We have to make sure we're doing everything in the interest of the players and give ourselves the best chance of winning at the same time. "It's been a tough summer. It's been a gruelling schedule, some wonderful cricket and highly intense cricket," he explained. "It's part and parcel of a Test match and something you've got to be able to manage." Having lost 1-0 in a two-match series to World Test Championship winners New Zealand earlier in the season, Root is keen to avoid another similar defeat by India. "It's going to be really important we bounce back very quickly just like we did a week ago," said Root, whose side recovered from a 151-run defeat by India in the second Test to win the third by an innings and 76 runs at his Headingley home ground. "We will make sure at Old Trafford we have got that bit between our teeth and bounce back."

Joe Root wary of James Anderson fitness for India finale

India and England will lock horns in the fourth and penultimate Test at Kennington Oval, London from September 2 (Thursday) with the series interestingly poised at 1-1. After the drawn series opener and Virat Kohli-led India winning the second Test at Lord's by 151 runs, Joe Root &amp; Co. bounced back in style to win the third Test by an innings and 76 runs as both sides have plenty to play for in the penultimate contest.

A 2-1 unassailable lead will be for taking for both sides. Ahead of the match's commencement, here's a quick stat of how both sides have fared at the venue.&nbsp;

STATS

Both India and England have squared off against each other on 13 occasions at the picturesque Kennington Oval, London. Out of the 13 games, India have managed to win only 1 encounter and lost 5. Meanwhile, the remaining 7 Tests resulted in a draw.

During India's 2018 tour of England, Kohli &amp; Co. lost to hosts at the venue by 118 runs in pursuit of 463. To add to India's woes, they have lost all their last three Tests at the venue, including two innings defeat.

PITCH CONDITIONS

Traditionally, the pitch at The Oval is akin for pacers as well as spinners. While it will begin to assist the pacers for the initial few days, the spinners come into the action which might tempt Team India to finally give R Ashwin a chance in the series. Both Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja can feature in India's XI. For the batters, they will find it a nice turf to bat on, with runs mainly coming in the second session of the day.

WEATHER CONDITIONS

According to AccuWeather, the weather in London is expected to remain fairly for the first three-four days. However, rain may play spoilsport on the final day. Hence, if all three results remain possible on Day 5, we might see rain wasting crucial time as it happened during the series opener (when entire Day 5 got washed out).&nbsp;As batting already remains tough in the final innings in England, the change of weather might tilt the equation in the favour of the bowling side on Day 5.

PREDICTED XI:&nbsp;

India's XI:&nbsp;KL Rahul, Rohit Sharma, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli (c), Ajinkya Rahane, Rishabh Pant (wk), Ravindra Jadeja, R. Ashwin/Shardul Thakur, Mohammed Shami, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj

England's XI:&nbsp;Rory Burns, Haseeb Hameed, Dawid Malan, Joe Root (c), Jonny Bairstow (wk), Ollie Pope/Dan Lawrence, Moeen Ali, Chris Woakes, Ollie Robinson, Mark Wood, James Anderson

India and England will lock horns in the fourth and penultimate Test at Kennington Oval, London from September 2 (Thursday) with the series interestingly poised at 1-1.

India and England will lock horns in the fourth and penultimate Test at Kennington Oval, London from September 2 (Thursday) with the series interestingly poised at 1-1. After the drawn series opener and Virat Kohli-led India winning the second Test at Lord's by 151 runs, Joe Root & Co. bounced back in style to win the third Test by an innings and 76 runs as both sides have plenty to play for in the penultimate contest. A 2-1 unassailable lead will be for taking for both sides. Ahead of the match's commencement, here's a quick stat of how both sides have fared at the venue. STATS Both India and England have squared off against each other on 13 occasions at the picturesque Kennington Oval, London. Out of the 13 games, India have managed to win only 1 encounter and lost 5. Meanwhile, the remaining 7 Tests resulted in a draw. During India's 2018 tour of England, Kohli & Co. lost to hosts at the venue by 118 runs in pursuit of 463. To add to India's woes, they have lost all their last three Tests at the venue, including two innings defeat. PITCH CONDITIONS Traditionally, the pitch at The Oval is akin for pacers as well as spinners. While it will begin to assist the pacers for the initial few days, the spinners come into the action which might tempt Team India to finally give R Ashwin a chance in the series. Both Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja can feature in India's XI. For the batters, they will find it a nice turf to bat on, with runs mainly coming in the second session of the day. WEATHER CONDITIONS According to AccuWeather, the weather in London is expected to remain fairly for the first three-four days. However, rain may play spoilsport on the final day. Hence, if all three results remain possible on Day 5, we might see rain wasting crucial time as it happened during the series opener (when entire Day 5 got washed out). As batting already remains tough in the final innings in England, the change of weather might tilt the equation in the favour of the bowling side on Day 5. PREDICTED XI: India's XI: KL Rahul, Rohit Sharma, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli (c), Ajinkya Rahane, Rishabh Pant (wk), Ravindra Jadeja, R. Ashwin/Shardul Thakur, Mohammed Shami, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj England's XI: Rory Burns, Haseeb Hameed, Dawid Malan, Joe Root (c), Jonny Bairstow (wk), Ollie Pope/Dan Lawrence, Moeen Ali, Chris Woakes, Ollie Robinson, Mark Wood, James Anderson

India vs England 2021, 4th Test: Pitch conditions at Kennington Oval, London weather report and stats

Team India head coach Ravi Shastri has made a big statement ahead of the national side's fourth and penultimate Test versus England at the Kennington Oval, London starting from Thursday (September 2). Despite India losing the third Test, of the five-match series, by an innings and 76 runs and the series being levelled at 1-1, Shastri feels Joe Root-led England will feel the pressure going forward to win the series at home.

"If anyone thinks that this Indian team is going to back off, they have another thing coming because at 1-1, we are playing overseas, the pressure is on England. They have to win in their own country. We have done what we had to do with them in India. So, the ball is in their court and we will fight, there's no question about it," Shastri said on Times Now Navbharat.

On being asked on how Virat Kohli &amp; Co. plan to stage a recovery and fightback in the remaining two games after a heavy defeat, an upbeat Shastri said, "It's very easy, you just go back to Lord's. Just think Lord's, forget the last one. As simple as that. I know it's easier said than done but we should remember your good moments as well. Such things happen in the game. England was in the driver's seat and we snatched victory. In the last Test match, they bowled brilliantly. They caught us on the hop on the very first day of the Test match, they put us on the back foot."

"Even though we showed glimpses of a fight in the second innings, I think that first, you know, early dismissal of our players and getting all out for 78 played its part. But this series is wide open," he added.

After the series opener ended in a draw, Kohli-led India won the second Test at Lord's by a whopping 151-run margin. However, they surrendered the momentum to lose the third Test by an innings and 76 runs. Batting first, India were bundled out for 78 and England posted a healthy 432 in reply. In their second essay, India once again suffered a collapse to be bundled out for 278, from 215-2, on Day 4.

The series, however, remains wide open and the remaining two Tests will surely give plenty to cheer for the ardent cricket fans worldwide.

Team India head coach Ravi Shastri has made a big statement ahead of the national side's fourth and penultimate Test versus England at the Kennington Oval, London starting from Thursday (September 2).

Team India head coach Ravi Shastri has made a big statement ahead of the national side's fourth and penultimate Test versus England at the Kennington Oval, London starting from Thursday (September 2). Despite India losing the third Test, of the five-match series, by an innings and 76 runs and the series being levelled at 1-1, Shastri feels Joe Root-led England will feel the pressure going forward to win the series at home. "If anyone thinks that this Indian team is going to back off, they have another thing coming because at 1-1, we are playing overseas, the pressure is on England. They have to win in their own country. We have done what we had to do with them in India. So, the ball is in their court and we will fight, there's no question about it," Shastri said on Times Now Navbharat. On being asked on how Virat Kohli & Co. plan to stage a recovery and fightback in the remaining two games after a heavy defeat, an upbeat Shastri said, "It's very easy, you just go back to Lord's. Just think Lord's, forget the last one. As simple as that. I know it's easier said than done but we should remember your good moments as well. Such things happen in the game. England was in the driver's seat and we snatched victory. In the last Test match, they bowled brilliantly. They caught us on the hop on the very first day of the Test match, they put us on the back foot." "Even though we showed glimpses of a fight in the second innings, I think that first, you know, early dismissal of our players and getting all out for 78 played its part. But this series is wide open," he added. After the series opener ended in a draw, Kohli-led India won the second Test at Lord's by a whopping 151-run margin. However, they surrendered the momentum to lose the third Test by an innings and 76 runs. Batting first, India were bundled out for 78 and England posted a healthy 432 in reply. In their second essay, India once again suffered a collapse to be bundled out for 278, from 215-2, on Day 4. The series, however, remains wide open and the remaining two Tests will surely give plenty to cheer for the ardent cricket fans worldwide.

They've to win in their own country: Not Virat Kohli-led India! Ravi Shastri says pressure is on England ahead of 4th Test

After the third Test ended with Team India losing the contest by an innings and 76 runs versus Joe Root-led England, all eyes are now on the fourth and penultimate Test as both sides will like to give their all with the series interestingly poised at 1-1.

Virat Kohli &amp; Co. came into the third Test following a stunning show at Lord's, where they beat England by 151 runs, but fell flat in Headingley, Leeds. While the visitors will have their back against the wall and will look to start from scratch, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra made a bold claim and predicted Team India as the winner&nbsp;for the upcoming Test.

In a video shared on his Youtube channel, Chopra predicted, "I am going with India to win this Test match. Yes, I am saying India will win. The team that wins the toss will want to bat first. Batting is not a bad idea, that's for India. England, you should have batted first at Lord's because batting does not happen at the end, you get all out in fifty overs."

He further opined, "In this five-day Test match, if it lasts for five days, spinners will take more than 6 wickets. Who will be the spinners - Moeen Ali, Ashwin, Jadeja or someone else? A lot of runs will be scored in the second session of each day at the Oval ground. In the middle overs, old ball, flat pitch, slightly more spin - that's the time to score."

Team India have plenty to ponder upon ahead of the penultimate Test. For them to stage a recovery, the batting line-up will have to stand tall, especially the likes of Kohli, Ajinkya Rahane, etc. Further, it will be interesting to see if the likes of R Ashwin, Shardul Thakur and Hanuma Vihari get a look-in.&nbsp;

After the third Test ended with Team India losing the contest by an innings and 76 runs versus Joe Root-led England, all eyes are now on the fourth and penultimate Test as both sides will like to give their all with the series interestingly poised at 1-1.

After the third Test ended with Team India losing the contest by an innings and 76 runs versus Joe Root-led England, all eyes are now on the fourth and penultimate Test as both sides will like to give their all with the series interestingly poised at 1-1. Virat Kohli & Co. came into the third Test following a stunning show at Lord's, where they beat England by 151 runs, but fell flat in Headingley, Leeds. While the visitors will have their back against the wall and will look to start from scratch, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra made a bold claim and predicted Team India as the winner for the upcoming Test. In a video shared on his Youtube channel, Chopra predicted, "I am going with India to win this Test match. Yes, I am saying India will win. The team that wins the toss will want to bat first. Batting is not a bad idea, that's for India. England, you should have batted first at Lord's because batting does not happen at the end, you get all out in fifty overs." He further opined, "In this five-day Test match, if it lasts for five days, spinners will take more than 6 wickets. Who will be the spinners - Moeen Ali, Ashwin, Jadeja or someone else? A lot of runs will be scored in the second session of each day at the Oval ground. In the middle overs, old ball, flat pitch, slightly more spin - that's the time to score." Team India have plenty to ponder upon ahead of the penultimate Test. For them to stage a recovery, the batting line-up will have to stand tall, especially the likes of Kohli, Ajinkya Rahane, etc. Further, it will be interesting to see if the likes of R Ashwin, Shardul Thakur and Hanuma Vihari get a look-in.

India or England? Aakash Chopra makes bold claim, predicts winner of 4th Test

After thrashing India in the third Test, Joe Root went on to become England’s most successful Test captain with 27 wins to his name.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rishabh-pants-batting-style-similar-to-adam-gilchrist-will-be-a-discussion-point-always-says-ashish-nehra-409932" hreflang="en">Rishabh Pant's batting style similar to Adam Gilchrist, will be a discussion point always, says Ashish Nehra</a>

However, Michael Vaughan had said that England Test skipper Joe Root will be termed as great if he manages to win the Ashes in Australia.&nbsp;

Root responded to these comments made by former England captain. During a media interaction ahead of the start of the fourth Test match, Root said that the English skippers are judged 'slightly' on how you perform in the Ashes.&nbsp;

"As an England captain, you're judged slightly on how you perform in Ashes cricket," said Root. "More than anything I feel we need to win this series first. This is a huge series for us. And then we will turn our attention to Australia.

"It is something that everyone wants to do, getting to Australia and winning as a player or as a captain. What other people think of me as a captain is irrelevant. My job is to give everything to the team, and if that is not good enough for some people, it is something I have done, and I will be proud of that," explained Root.

The 30-year-old surpassed the likes of Michael Vaughan, Andrew Strauss and Alastair Cook to guide his team to the most number of wins in Test cricket.

It took Joe Root 55 Tests to achieve this feat. He is followed by Vaughan, who won 26 matches out of 51 Tests. Alastair Cook and Andrew Strauss won 24 Tests each.&nbsp;

After thrashing India in the third Test, Joe Root went on to become England’s most successful Test captain with 27 wins to his name. ALSO READ: Rishabh Pant's batting style similar to Adam Gilchrist, will be a discussion point always, says Ashish Nehra However, Michael Vaughan had said that England Test skipper Joe Root will be termed as great if he manages to win the Ashes in Australia.

After thrashing India in the third Test, Joe Root went on to become England’s most successful Test captain with 27 wins to his name. ALSO READ: Rishabh Pant's batting style similar to Adam Gilchrist, will be a discussion point always, says Ashish Nehra However, Michael Vaughan had said that England Test skipper Joe Root will be termed as great if he manages to win the Ashes in Australia. Root responded to these comments made by former England captain. During a media interaction ahead of the start of the fourth Test match, Root said that the English skippers are judged 'slightly' on how you perform in the Ashes. "As an England captain, you're judged slightly on how you perform in Ashes cricket," said Root. "More than anything I feel we need to win this series first. This is a huge series for us. And then we will turn our attention to Australia. "It is something that everyone wants to do, getting to Australia and winning as a player or as a captain. What other people think of me as a captain is irrelevant. My job is to give everything to the team, and if that is not good enough for some people, it is something I have done, and I will be proud of that," explained Root. The 30-year-old surpassed the likes of Michael Vaughan, Andrew Strauss and Alastair Cook to guide his team to the most number of wins in Test cricket. It took Joe Root 55 Tests to achieve this feat. He is followed by Vaughan, who won 26 matches out of 51 Tests. Alastair Cook and Andrew Strauss won 24 Tests each.

'You're judged slightly on how you perform in Ashes cricket': Joe Root

Following some fine performances with the bat in Englands ongoing Test series against India, skipper Joe Root on Wednesday regained the No.1 spot in the ICC Men`s Test player rankings for batting. 
 
The England skipper has notched up centuries in all the three Test matches in Nottingham, Lord`s, and Leeds, aggregating 507 runs at an average of 126.75. This golden run sees him overtake New Zealand captain Kane Williamson to return to the top of the charts after six years. 
 
Root started the series ranked fifth in the charts, but his form has seen him take massive strides in his charge towards the top spot. Other gainers in the England batting department after their series-levelling victory in Leeds include Jonny Bairstow (five places up to 24th) and Dawid Malan (ranked 88th). 
 
From India, Rohit Sharma has been the biggest gainer, overtaking captain Virat Kohli to gain one spot and jump into the top-five batsmen`s rankings. Sharma scored 19 and 59 in the two innings of the Headingley Test match. 
 
Cheteshwar Pujara`s battling 91 in the second innings has also seen him progress three spots to jump up to the 15th spot in the rankings table. 
 
England`s pacers made notable gains in the bowling rankings, after their performances in the third Test. The veteran James Anderson has gained one spot to move into the top five, while Player of the Match Ollie Robinson, and Craig Overton have also risen up the table. Robinson advanced nine places to move up to No.36, while Overton has re-entered the rankings at the 73rd spot. 
 
With the fourth Test at The Oval starting this week, there will be further opportunities for players from both sides to make significant gains in the ranking charts next week.

Following some fine performances with the bat in Englands ongoing Test series against India, skipper Joe Root on Wednesday regained the No.1 spot in the ICC Men`s Test player rankings for batting.

Following some fine performances with the bat in Englands ongoing Test series against India, skipper Joe Root on Wednesday regained the No.1 spot in the ICC Men`s Test player rankings for batting. The England skipper has notched up centuries in all the three Test matches in Nottingham, Lord`s, and Leeds, aggregating 507 runs at an average of 126.75. This golden run sees him overtake New Zealand captain Kane Williamson to return to the top of the charts after six years. Root started the series ranked fifth in the charts, but his form has seen him take massive strides in his charge towards the top spot. Other gainers in the England batting department after their series-levelling victory in Leeds include Jonny Bairstow (five places up to 24th) and Dawid Malan (ranked 88th). From India, Rohit Sharma has been the biggest gainer, overtaking captain Virat Kohli to gain one spot and jump into the top-five batsmen`s rankings. Sharma scored 19 and 59 in the two innings of the Headingley Test match. Cheteshwar Pujara`s battling 91 in the second innings has also seen him progress three spots to jump up to the 15th spot in the rankings table. England`s pacers made notable gains in the bowling rankings, after their performances in the third Test. The veteran James Anderson has gained one spot to move into the top five, while Player of the Match Ollie Robinson, and Craig Overton have also risen up the table. Robinson advanced nine places to move up to No.36, while Overton has re-entered the rankings at the 73rd spot. With the fourth Test at The Oval starting this week, there will be further opportunities for players from both sides to make significant gains in the ranking charts next week.

Joe Root regains No. 1 spot in Test rankings; Rohit Sharma overtakes Virat Kohli

England captain Joe Root has said his team have the quality to consistently deliver performances similar to their crushing win over India in the third Test at Headingley on Saturday. 
 
England, after being comprehensively outplayed in the second Test at Lord`s, thrashed the visitors by an innings and 76 runs to level the five-test series at 1-1. 
 
"I`ve always known what we`re capable of doing. Everyone in this group has shown that they`re good enough to perform and to deliver performances like that collectively," Root told reporters on Saturday. 
 
"One thing we need to keep getting better at is being more consistent and doing that time and time again. And (Headingley) is a great template for us to work from. 
 
"As a batting group, we made that big first innings score. As a bowling group, we were relentless. That`s the sort of thing that over time, we need to just keep doing more and more of." 
 
Root emphasised the need for consistent big partnerships with the bat after leading the way with his 121, while Rory Burns, Haseeb Hameed and Dawid Malan all scored half-centuries. 
 
"Now we`ve done it once this series, there`s no reason why we can`t take this forward," Root added. 
 
"We`ve shown that we can stand up to these guys in our own way and do it in our own manner as a side and really put them back under pressure. We`ve got a great opportunity now with two games to go to do just that." 
 
The victory also made Root the most successful test captain for England with the result giving him his 27th win, one more than Michael Vaughan. 
 
"I`m living my boyhood dream," the 30-year-old said. 
 
"I couldn`t be more proud to have gone past Michael but you don`t do that on your own as captain -- it`s down to the group of players and the coaching staff as well." 
 
The fourth test starts at The Oval on Thursday.

England captain Joe Root has said his team have the quality to consistently deliver performances similar to their crushing win over India in the third Test at Headingley on Saturday.

England captain Joe Root has said his team have the quality to consistently deliver performances similar to their crushing win over India in the third Test at Headingley on Saturday. England, after being comprehensively outplayed in the second Test at Lord`s, thrashed the visitors by an innings and 76 runs to level the five-test series at 1-1. "I`ve always known what we`re capable of doing. Everyone in this group has shown that they`re good enough to perform and to deliver performances like that collectively," Root told reporters on Saturday. "One thing we need to keep getting better at is being more consistent and doing that time and time again. And (Headingley) is a great template for us to work from. "As a batting group, we made that big first innings score. As a bowling group, we were relentless. That`s the sort of thing that over time, we need to just keep doing more and more of." Root emphasised the need for consistent big partnerships with the bat after leading the way with his 121, while Rory Burns, Haseeb Hameed and Dawid Malan all scored half-centuries. "Now we`ve done it once this series, there`s no reason why we can`t take this forward," Root added. "We`ve shown that we can stand up to these guys in our own way and do it in our own manner as a side and really put them back under pressure. We`ve got a great opportunity now with two games to go to do just that." The victory also made Root the most successful test captain for England with the result giving him his 27th win, one more than Michael Vaughan. "I`m living my boyhood dream," the 30-year-old said. "I couldn`t be more proud to have gone past Michael but you don`t do that on your own as captain -- it`s down to the group of players and the coaching staff as well." The fourth test starts at The Oval on Thursday.

England captain Root backs team to build on Headingley win

Joe Root scripted history on Saturday when his team handed India a crushing defeat at Headingly, Leeds as he became England’s most successful Test captain with 27 wins to his name.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-eng-3rd-test-england-hand-a-crushing-innings-defeat-to-india-level-series-1-1-409028" hreflang="en">IND vs ENG, 3rd Test: England hand a crushing innings defeat to India, level series 1-1</a>

The 30-year-old surpassed the likes of Michael Vaughan, Andrew Strauss and Alastair Cook to guide his team to the most number of wins in Test cricket.

It took Joe Root 55 Tests to achieve this feat. He is followed by Vaughan, who won 26 matches out of 51 Tests. Alastair Cook and Andrew Strauss won 24 Tests each.&nbsp;

Except for the third day, England dominated the match from the very first day, when they bundled India out for just 78 runs. England captain Joe Root scored his third consecutive ton in the series and guided hosts to a mammoth 432 runs, taking a lead of 354 runs.&nbsp;

Winning captain Joe Root was overjoyed with the win and during the post-match presentation, he said: "It was a fantastic and clinical performance from the bowlers. The two big lads put loads of pressure with three maidens, and we had a really good opportunity to take wickets and we took them ruthlessly."

"We controlled and hung in with the new ball, and we reaped the rewards. Anderson churns out performances like that and that's why he's the GOAT of Test cricket," he added.&nbsp;

With the series equalled, both teams will now head into the penultimate Test match of the series and will play each other at the Oval.

Joe Root scripted history on Saturday when his team handed India a crushing defeat at Headingly, Leeds as he became England’s most successful Test captain with 27 wins to his name.

Joe Root scripted history on Saturday when his team handed India a crushing defeat at Headingly, Leeds as he became England’s most successful Test captain with 27 wins to his name. ALSO READ: IND vs ENG, 3rd Test: England hand a crushing innings defeat to India, level series 1-1 The 30-year-old surpassed the likes of Michael Vaughan, Andrew Strauss and Alastair Cook to guide his team to the most number of wins in Test cricket. It took Joe Root 55 Tests to achieve this feat. He is followed by Vaughan, who won 26 matches out of 51 Tests. Alastair Cook and Andrew Strauss won 24 Tests each. Except for the third day, England dominated the match from the very first day, when they bundled India out for just 78 runs. England captain Joe Root scored his third consecutive ton in the series and guided hosts to a mammoth 432 runs, taking a lead of 354 runs. Winning captain Joe Root was overjoyed with the win and during the post-match presentation, he said: "It was a fantastic and clinical performance from the bowlers. The two big lads put loads of pressure with three maidens, and we had a really good opportunity to take wickets and we took them ruthlessly." "We controlled and hung in with the new ball, and we reaped the rewards. Anderson churns out performances like that and that's why he's the GOAT of Test cricket," he added. With the series equalled, both teams will now head into the penultimate Test match of the series and will play each other at the Oval.

After the win against India, Joe Root becomes England's most successful Test captain

India and England were involved in a high-voltage second Test, at Lord's, which ended with Virat Kohli-led India coming on top of hosts by a whopping 151-run margin to go 1-0 up in the five-match series, being held in England and Wales. While the match had several memorable moments, Jasprit Bumrah's relentless fast-bowling spell -- comprising a barrage of bouncers -- to England's James Anderson during the home side's first innings became a huge talking point.&nbsp;

Following Bumrah's bouncers to Anderson, who was caught off guard by the Indian speedster's extra pace and bounce, things got heated up between the two sides. After England managed a slender 27-run lead over India and the fiery face-off between Bumrah-Anderson ended on Day 3, Joe Root-led England tried to come hard on Bumrah but paid the price as it Kohli &amp; Co. replied with much intent to script a historic comeback on the final day and win the Test by 151 runs.&nbsp;

Nonetheless, as per a report in The Telegraph, it has been claimed that things turned ugly between India and England following the Bumrah-Anderson face-off on Day 3 of the Lord's Test.&nbsp;

India and England&nbsp;players were reportedly involved in a 'bust-up' in the Lord's long room after the conclusion of Day 3's play during the second Test, which ended on August 16. There were 'tense scenes in the Lord's pavilion at the end of the third day's play. The report referred to the incident as a 'bust-up' and claimed that the players from both camps&nbsp;were seen arguing on their way to their dressing rooms and the confrontation continued even in the Lord's long room.

"Confrontations in the Lord's Long Room - the hallowed inner sanctum of English cricket - are almost unheard of," stated the report from The Telegraph', also claiming that the two captains -- Kohli and Root -- were also believed to be involved in a heated exchange.

Following Bumrah-Anderson face-off, India came out to bat in their second essay, trailing England by 27 runs. The hosts had their noise ahead on the final day as India were reduced to 209-8, leading by 182 runs, when Bumrah-Mohammed Shami battled the short-ball ploy versus the English pacers and set-up a daunting 272-run target for the hosts.

England fell like nine pins, in response,&nbsp;to fold for 120 and lose the Test by 151 runs. The third Test commences at Headingley, Leeds from August 25 (Wednesday).

India and England were involved in a high-voltage second Test, at Lord's, which ended with Virat Kohli-led India coming on top of hosts by a whopping 151-run margin to go 1-0 up in the five-match series, being held in England and Wales.

India and England were involved in a high-voltage second Test, at Lord's, which ended with Virat Kohli-led India coming on top of hosts by a whopping 151-run margin to go 1-0 up in the five-match series, being held in England and Wales. While the match had several memorable moments, Jasprit Bumrah's relentless fast-bowling spell -- comprising a barrage of bouncers -- to England's James Anderson during the home side's first innings became a huge talking point. Following Bumrah's bouncers to Anderson, who was caught off guard by the Indian speedster's extra pace and bounce, things got heated up between the two sides. After England managed a slender 27-run lead over India and the fiery face-off between Bumrah-Anderson ended on Day 3, Joe Root-led England tried to come hard on Bumrah but paid the price as it Kohli & Co. replied with much intent to script a historic comeback on the final day and win the Test by 151 runs. Nonetheless, as per a report in The Telegraph, it has been claimed that things turned ugly between India and England following the Bumrah-Anderson face-off on Day 3 of the Lord's Test. India and England players were reportedly involved in a 'bust-up' in the Lord's long room after the conclusion of Day 3's play during the second Test, which ended on August 16. There were 'tense scenes in the Lord's pavilion at the end of the third day's play. The report referred to the incident as a 'bust-up' and claimed that the players from both camps were seen arguing on their way to their dressing rooms and the confrontation continued even in the Lord's long room. "Confrontations in the Lord's Long Room - the hallowed inner sanctum of English cricket - are almost unheard of," stated the report from The Telegraph', also claiming that the two captains -- Kohli and Root -- were also believed to be involved in a heated exchange. Following Bumrah-Anderson face-off, India came out to bat in their second essay, trailing England by 27 runs. The hosts had their noise ahead on the final day as India were reduced to 209-8, leading by 182 runs, when Bumrah-Mohammed Shami battled the short-ball ploy versus the English pacers and set-up a daunting 272-run target for the hosts. England fell like nine pins, in response, to fold for 120 and lose the Test by 151 runs. The third Test commences at Headingley, Leeds from August 25 (Wednesday).

India, England players involved in 'bust-up' in Lord's long room following Jasprit Bumrah's bouncer barrage to James Anderson - Report

India channelled their aggression to their advantage to script a famous win at Lord's while England failed to rile up the opposition players despite regular attempts and that is something Joe Root is looking to avoid in the third Test beginning here on Wednesday.

The second Test was played in an intense atmosphere with players of both teams not shying from constant sledging.

With India leading the series 1-0, one expect more aggression from Virat Kohli's team but Root said his team has learnt its lessons from the previous game and will not be drawn into the conversations needlessly.

"There's the theatre and everything else surrounding the game. We've got to make sure that we play the game how we want to play and we look after that as best as we can, and not get too distracted or drawn into anything that's not honest," said Root in the virtual pre-match media interaction.

"We've got to be genuine to ourselves, genuine to how we are as individuals and how we are collectively and be as good as we can, the way that we go. Virat's team will play how they play, I just want us to go out and be the best version of ourselves."

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/theyve-got-a-wonderful-attack-joe-root-praises-indian-pacers-ahead-of-headingley-test-407978">'They've got a wonderful attack': Joe Root praises Indian pacers ahead of Headingley Test</a>

Root has already admitted to tactical blunders that cost his side the Lord's Test. Their emotions also got the better of them.

"I think there were always conversations you always try to find one percenters in ways you can deal with different situations.

"We've done some good learning off the back of the last game I think we could have managed certain areas differently, me as the captain, we could have gone about things slightly differently.

"We have got three massive games to play in this series, there's a lot to play for. And you know we're desperate to bounce back strongly," he said.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/people-criticise-only-important-people-says-ajinkya-rahane-over-chatter-around-his-form-407880">'People criticise only important people,' says Ajinkya Rahane over chatter around his form</a>

England have made a few changes going into the game with Dawid Malan coming in to bat at number three and Haseeb Hameed moving up to open alongside Rory Burns.

Opener Dom Sibley has been dropped and Mark Wood has been ruled out of the game due to a shoulder injury.

Root expects Malan to make an instant impact even though the southpaw has not played a lot of red-ball cricket of late.

"Dawid obviously offers a lot of experience in that top three, not necessarily in terms of experience in Test cricket, but he has played a huge amount of international cricket now, he's dealt with pressure situations.

"He's played a lot of red ball cricket over the course of his career and he's also had great successes in a massive series in Australia and was our leading scorer out there, so we know that he's capable of big things."

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Wood's injury has created an opening for Saqib Mahmood's Test debut and Root did not rule that out.

"I feel Saqib couldn't be in a better place to potentially play Test cricket, you look at how he's progressed over the last couple of years across all formats.

"But the opportunities, he's taken this year when I've been given them he's been exceptional," said Root. 
The skipper, who has been scoring the bulk of the runs for his team, is confident that under-fire batting line-up will come good.

"The most important thing about batting in Test cricket revolves around big partnerships, when two guys back for a period of time the game can look completely different. And that's got to be our focus as a batting group.

"Starting your innings in England can be the hardest thing to do."

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Root attributed his brilliant run of form to the technical changes he made recently.

"Sometimes it's that old adage if you have to take a little bit of backward step to come forward and feel like reaping the rewards of that and I think I've obviously, over a period of time, found myself getting out between 50 and 100.

"I feel I've managed those phases little bit better now. Just through a better understanding of what I want to play, what I want to leave. And I suppose, just even more experience within the game."

He duly credit the Indian pace attack for exploiting English conditions to perfection.

"They've got a wonderful attack and I say, look around Test cricket, there are some fantastic attacks out there. A lot of them do suit English conditions or have had the exploits to manage these conditions very well.

"India certainly have done that so far in this series, and we've got to keep being smart about finding ways to counter that, finding ways to score put the pressure back on them.

"I think one thing they have is they have a good balance, they have variety of different release points."

India channelled their aggression to their advantage to script a famous win at Lord's while England failed to rile up the opposition players despite regular attempts and that is something Joe Root is looking to avoid in the third Test beginning here on Wednesday.

India channelled their aggression to their advantage to script a famous win at Lord's while England failed to rile up the opposition players despite regular attempts and that is something Joe Root is looking to avoid in the third Test beginning here on Wednesday. The second Test was played in an intense atmosphere with players of both teams not shying from constant sledging. With India leading the series 1-0, one expect more aggression from Virat Kohli's team but Root said his team has learnt its lessons from the previous game and will not be drawn into the conversations needlessly. "There's the theatre and everything else surrounding the game. We've got to make sure that we play the game how we want to play and we look after that as best as we can, and not get too distracted or drawn into anything that's not honest," said Root in the virtual pre-match media interaction. "We've got to be genuine to ourselves, genuine to how we are as individuals and how we are collectively and be as good as we can, the way that we go. Virat's team will play how they play, I just want us to go out and be the best version of ourselves." ALSO READ | 'They've got a wonderful attack': Joe Root praises Indian pacers ahead of Headingley Test Root has already admitted to tactical blunders that cost his side the Lord's Test. Their emotions also got the better of them. "I think there were always conversations you always try to find one percenters in ways you can deal with different situations. "We've done some good learning off the back of the last game I think we could have managed certain areas differently, me as the captain, we could have gone about things slightly differently. "We have got three massive games to play in this series, there's a lot to play for. And you know we're desperate to bounce back strongly," he said. ALSO READ | 'People criticise only important people,' says Ajinkya Rahane over chatter around his form England have made a few changes going into the game with Dawid Malan coming in to bat at number three and Haseeb Hameed moving up to open alongside Rory Burns. Opener Dom Sibley has been dropped and Mark Wood has been ruled out of the game due to a shoulder injury. Root expects Malan to make an instant impact even though the southpaw has not played a lot of red-ball cricket of late. "Dawid obviously offers a lot of experience in that top three, not necessarily in terms of experience in Test cricket, but he has played a huge amount of international cricket now, he's dealt with pressure situations. "He's played a lot of red ball cricket over the course of his career and he's also had great successes in a massive series in Australia and was our leading scorer out there, so we know that he's capable of big things." 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿🇮🇳 Preparations are on in both the camps ahead of the Headingley Test 💪#ENGvIND | #WTC23 pic.twitter.com/lMHXrLVOb9 — ICC (@ICC) August 24, 2021 × Wood's injury has created an opening for Saqib Mahmood's Test debut and Root did not rule that out. "I feel Saqib couldn't be in a better place to potentially play Test cricket, you look at how he's progressed over the last couple of years across all formats. "But the opportunities, he's taken this year when I've been given them he's been exceptional," said Root. The skipper, who has been scoring the bulk of the runs for his team, is confident that under-fire batting line-up will come good. "The most important thing about batting in Test cricket revolves around big partnerships, when two guys back for a period of time the game can look completely different. And that's got to be our focus as a batting group. "Starting your innings in England can be the hardest thing to do." Turning the heat 🔥🔛 at Headingley 🏟️💪🏻#TeamIndia 🇮🇳 | #ENGvIND pic.twitter.com/cxNjZFIqh0 — BCCI (@BCCI) August 22, 2021 × Root attributed his brilliant run of form to the technical changes he made recently. "Sometimes it's that old adage if you have to take a little bit of backward step to come forward and feel like reaping the rewards of that and I think I've obviously, over a period of time, found myself getting out between 50 and 100. "I feel I've managed those phases little bit better now. Just through a better understanding of what I want to play, what I want to leave. And I suppose, just even more experience within the game." He duly credit the Indian pace attack for exploiting English conditions to perfection. "They've got a wonderful attack and I say, look around Test cricket, there are some fantastic attacks out there. A lot of them do suit English conditions or have had the exploits to manage these conditions very well. "India certainly have done that so far in this series, and we've got to keep being smart about finding ways to counter that, finding ways to score put the pressure back on them. "I think one thing they have is they have a good balance, they have variety of different release points."

Virat's team will play how it plays, we will not get drawn into anything that's not honest: Root

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