Senior pacer Mitchell Starc claimed his maiden Allan Border medal while Ashleigh Gardner became the first indigenous person to win the Belinda Clarke award, the top two honours at Cricket Australia (CA) Awards.

Starc was honoured for his strong performance in all three formats of the game. He is only the fifth bowler in 22 years to win the award.

Gardener also bagged the recognition for the first time. She is the first indigenous player to clinch the top gong in Australian women's cricket.

"I never dreamt of ever winning this award. When I took the call I was in complete surprise," Gardner told Channel Seven.

"I'm still in shock. To be the first ever First Nations person to win this award is super special not only for me but for my family and my people too."

"I've certainly grown up both on and off the field and maturing off the field has an impact on my game. All I ever want to do when I go out with the ball or with the ball is to win for the team," Gardener added.

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The awards were decided by a voting process for the period 2021-22. The winners were decided by votes from players, umpires and media representatives throughout the year. The announcement came during the lunch break of the ongoing women's Ashes Test here. Starc, who took 43 wickets across all formats in the 12-month period, edged out all-rounder Mitchell Marsh by one vote.

"I'm not really sure what words to say at the moment. It was a huge surprise. To look at some of those names who have won it before, it will take a bit to sink in. Hugely honoured to receive this award," Starc said.

Gardner was Australia's third-highest run-scorer and fifth-highest wicket-taker across the voting period, scoring 281 runs at an average of 35.10 that included four half-centuries while also claiming nine wickets.

She received 54 votes to win the Belinda Clark award ahead of Beth Mooney (47) and Alyssa Healy (39). It was double celebration for Starc as he also won the men's ODI Player of the Year. He joins Pat Cummins, Mitchell Johnson,

Brett Lee and Glenn McGrath as the only fast bowlers to win the top award since its inception in 2000. Star wicketkeeper batter Alyssa Healy won the women's ODI Player of the Year award for the third time.

The big-hitting Marsh, who was the star of the T20 World Cup final last year, was named the Men's T20 Player of the Year after a tremendous 12 months.

Marsh, who scored 627 runs from 21 T20Is, received 53 votes, ahead of pacer Josh Hazlewood (29) and spinner Ashton Agar (26).

Beth Mooney won her second successive women's T20 Player of the Year award. With 13 votes, she finished ahead of Tahlia McGrath (10) and Gardner (6).

Batter Travis Head bagged the Test Player of the Year award courtesy a brilliant Ashes campaign that included two match-winning hundreds.

Read Also |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-u19-wc-nishant-sindhu-tests-positive-ahead-of-quarter-final-tie-yash-dhull-sk-rasheed-recover-448610">ICC U19 WC: Nishant Sindhu tests positive ahead of quarter-final tie, Yash Dhull, SK Rasheed recover</a> 
 
List of 2022 Australian Cricket Awards: 
Belinda Clark Award: Ashleigh Gardner (54 votes) 
Allan Border Medal: Mitchell Starc (107 votes) 
Men's Test Player of the Year: Travis Head (12 votes) 
Women's ODI Player of the Year: Alyssa Healy (13 votes) 
Men's ODI Player of the Year: Mitchell Starc (15 votes) 
Women's T20 Player of the Year: Beth Mooney (13 votes) 
Men's T20 Player of the Year: Mitchell Marsh (53 votes) 
Women's Domestic Player of the Year: Elyse Villani 
Men's Domestic Player of the Year: Travis Head 
Betty Wilson Young Cricketer: Darcie Brown 
Bradman Young Cricketer: Tim Ward 
Australian Cricket Hall of Fame inductees: Justin Langer &amp; Raelee Thompson.

Senior pacer Mitchell Starc claimed his maiden Allan Border medal while Ashleigh Gardner became the first indigenous person to win the Belinda Clarke award, the top two honours at Cricket Australia (CA) Awards.

Senior pacer Mitchell Starc claimed his maiden Allan Border medal while Ashleigh Gardner became the first indigenous person to win the Belinda Clarke award, the top two honours at Cricket Australia (CA) Awards. Starc was honoured for his strong performance in all three formats of the game. He is only the fifth bowler in 22 years to win the award. Gardener also bagged the recognition for the first time. She is the first indigenous player to clinch the top gong in Australian women's cricket. "I never dreamt of ever winning this award. When I took the call I was in complete surprise," Gardner told Channel Seven. "I'm still in shock. To be the first ever First Nations person to win this award is super special not only for me but for my family and my people too." "I've certainly grown up both on and off the field and maturing off the field has an impact on my game. All I ever want to do when I go out with the ball or with the ball is to win for the team," Gardener added. Read Also | Indian pacer Mohammed Shami names 2 teammates who can replace Virat Kohli as next Test captain The awards were decided by a voting process for the period 2021-22. The winners were decided by votes from players, umpires and media representatives throughout the year. The announcement came during the lunch break of the ongoing women's Ashes Test here. Starc, who took 43 wickets across all formats in the 12-month period, edged out all-rounder Mitchell Marsh by one vote. "I'm not really sure what words to say at the moment. It was a huge surprise. To look at some of those names who have won it before, it will take a bit to sink in. Hugely honoured to receive this award," Starc said. Gardner was Australia's third-highest run-scorer and fifth-highest wicket-taker across the voting period, scoring 281 runs at an average of 35.10 that included four half-centuries while also claiming nine wickets. She received 54 votes to win the Belinda Clark award ahead of Beth Mooney (47) and Alyssa Healy (39). It was double celebration for Starc as he also won the men's ODI Player of the Year. He joins Pat Cummins, Mitchell Johnson, Brett Lee and Glenn McGrath as the only fast bowlers to win the top award since its inception in 2000. Star wicketkeeper batter Alyssa Healy won the women's ODI Player of the Year award for the third time. The big-hitting Marsh, who was the star of the T20 World Cup final last year, was named the Men's T20 Player of the Year after a tremendous 12 months. Marsh, who scored 627 runs from 21 T20Is, received 53 votes, ahead of pacer Josh Hazlewood (29) and spinner Ashton Agar (26). Beth Mooney won her second successive women's T20 Player of the Year award. With 13 votes, she finished ahead of Tahlia McGrath (10) and Gardner (6). Batter Travis Head bagged the Test Player of the Year award courtesy a brilliant Ashes campaign that included two match-winning hundreds. Read Also | ICC U19 WC: Nishant Sindhu tests positive ahead of quarter-final tie, Yash Dhull, SK Rasheed recover List of 2022 Australian Cricket Awards: Belinda Clark Award: Ashleigh Gardner (54 votes) Allan Border Medal: Mitchell Starc (107 votes) Men's Test Player of the Year: Travis Head (12 votes) Women's ODI Player of the Year: Alyssa Healy (13 votes) Men's ODI Player of the Year: Mitchell Starc (15 votes) Women's T20 Player of the Year: Beth Mooney (13 votes) Men's T20 Player of the Year: Mitchell Marsh (53 votes) Women's Domestic Player of the Year: Elyse Villani Men's Domestic Player of the Year: Travis Head Betty Wilson Young Cricketer: Darcie Brown Bradman Young Cricketer: Tim Ward Australian Cricket Hall of Fame inductees: Justin Langer & Raelee Thompson.

Mitchell Starc wins maiden Allan Border medal; Ashleigh Gardner secures Belinda Clarke award

The countdown for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 mega auction has started with as many as 1214 players registering for the mega event which is set to be staged next month. The mega auction will see a number of top players from across the globe go under the hammer as ten teams will battle it out for them.

While there are a number of overseas superstars who have registered for the IPL 2022 mega auction, several big names have decided to pull out of the tournament by not registering for the auction. England pacer Jofra Archer, Australian fast bowler Mitchell Starc and veteran West Indies batter Chris Gayle are among the big names missing from the final list of registered players for the IPL 2022 mega auction.

Starc had recently expressed his desire to put his name up in the mega auction after the conclusion of the Ashes 2021-22. However, the Aussie pacer might have decided to pull out due to workload management and bio-bubble fatigue. Archer, who had missed IPL 2021 due to injury has made his comeback after recovery but is not willing to put his name up in the mega auction.

Gayle was part of the Punjab Kings squad last season and had pulled out from IPL 2021 midway through the league owing to bio-bubble fatigue. The T20 superstar, who is 42 now, has decided to not take part in the upcoming IPL season.&nbsp; He also seems to have played his final international game for West Indies, however, he might make a farewell appearance for his national team.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/hardik-pandya-rashid-khan-and-shubman-gill-join-ahmedabad-ipl-team-ahead-of-mega-auction-446575">Hardik Pandya, Rashid Khan and Shubman Gill join Ahmedabad IPL team ahead of mega auction</a>

With Gayle pulling out his name from the IPL mega auction, it appears likely that he might not feature in the competition again. One of the most destructive batters of the present era, Gayle enjoyed massive success in the IPL over the years and entertained fans with his swashbuckling batting.

Gayle has 4965 runs to his name in 142 IPL matches at a stunning strike rate of 148.96. Earlier, England stars Ben Stokes and Joe Root had confirmed they would not be part of IPL 2022 this year and have opted not to enter the IPL 2022 mega auction.

The countdown for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 mega auction has started with as many as 1214 players registering for the mega event which is set to be staged next month.

The countdown for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 mega auction has started with as many as 1214 players registering for the mega event which is set to be staged next month. The mega auction will see a number of top players from across the globe go under the hammer as ten teams will battle it out for them. While there are a number of overseas superstars who have registered for the IPL 2022 mega auction, several big names have decided to pull out of the tournament by not registering for the auction. England pacer Jofra Archer, Australian fast bowler Mitchell Starc and veteran West Indies batter Chris Gayle are among the big names missing from the final list of registered players for the IPL 2022 mega auction. Starc had recently expressed his desire to put his name up in the mega auction after the conclusion of the Ashes 2021-22. However, the Aussie pacer might have decided to pull out due to workload management and bio-bubble fatigue. Archer, who had missed IPL 2021 due to injury has made his comeback after recovery but is not willing to put his name up in the mega auction. Gayle was part of the Punjab Kings squad last season and had pulled out from IPL 2021 midway through the league owing to bio-bubble fatigue. The T20 superstar, who is 42 now, has decided to not take part in the upcoming IPL season. He also seems to have played his final international game for West Indies, however, he might make a farewell appearance for his national team. Also Read: Hardik Pandya, Rashid Khan and Shubman Gill join Ahmedabad IPL team ahead of mega auction With Gayle pulling out his name from the IPL mega auction, it appears likely that he might not feature in the competition again. One of the most destructive batters of the present era, Gayle enjoyed massive success in the IPL over the years and entertained fans with his swashbuckling batting. Gayle has 4965 runs to his name in 142 IPL matches at a stunning strike rate of 148.96. Earlier, England stars Ben Stokes and Joe Root had confirmed they would not be part of IPL 2022 this year and have opted not to enter the IPL 2022 mega auction.

Chris Gayle, Jofra Archer and Mitchell Starc among big names to pull out of IPL 2022

The countdown for the Indian Premier League (IPL) mega auction has begun ahead of the 2022 edition of the tournament. IPL 2022 mega auction is all set to be conducted in Bengaluru next month with a number of top players in line to go under the hammer. However, there are doubts over the participation of some of the top Australian and English players in the mega auction this time around.

As per a report in Cricbuzz, a number of top England and Australia players, including the likes of Ben Stokes, Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc and Joe Root are weighing in their options whether to give their names in the auction pool or not due to bio-bubble fatigue. Root has already confirmed he will not be a part of the IPL mega auction.

As per the report, Stokes' participation is also in doubt after the all-rounder was released by Rajasthan Royals on retention day. The Australian players are worried about a packed schedule ahead in the run-up to the IPL which would mean staying in the bio-bubble environment for months.

Australia recently defeated England 4-0 in the Ashes 2021-22 and are set to host trans-Tasman rivals New Zealand in a limited-overs series from January 30 which will be followed by a T20I series against Sri Lanka at home. Australia are scheduled to tour Pakistan in February for three Tests, as many ODIs and one T20I which will be followed by IPL 2022 in April.

Starc had recently hinted at taking part in the upcoming IPL mega auction but as per Cricbuzz, his participation is now in doubt.&nbsp;"I've got two days to get my paperwork in, so that might be something to do today before training. I've not put my name down just yet, but I've got a couple more days to decide on that. It's certainly on the table regardless of what the schedule has got coming up," the Australian pacer had said after the conclusion of Ashes 2021-22.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/shreyas-iyer-to-replace-virat-kohli-as-rcb-captain-three-ipl-teams-eye-ex-dc-skipper-at-mega-auction-445384">Shreyas Iyer to replace Virat Kohli as RCB captain? Three IPL teams eye ex-DC skipper at mega auction</a>

Cummins, who was part of the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) squad in IPL 2021, had pulled out of the second phase of the league due to personal reasons and might consider not entering the mega auction this year. The BCCI has extended the deadline for player enrolment in mega auction till January 20.

&nbsp;

The countdown for the Indian Premier League (IPL) mega auction has begun ahead of the 2022 edition of the tournament. IPL 2022 mega auction is all set to be conducted in Bengaluru next month with a number of top players in line to go under the hammer.

The countdown for the Indian Premier League (IPL) mega auction has begun ahead of the 2022 edition of the tournament. IPL 2022 mega auction is all set to be conducted in Bengaluru next month with a number of top players in line to go under the hammer. However, there are doubts over the participation of some of the top Australian and English players in the mega auction this time around. As per a report in Cricbuzz, a number of top England and Australia players, including the likes of Ben Stokes, Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc and Joe Root are weighing in their options whether to give their names in the auction pool or not due to bio-bubble fatigue. Root has already confirmed he will not be a part of the IPL mega auction. As per the report, Stokes' participation is also in doubt after the all-rounder was released by Rajasthan Royals on retention day. The Australian players are worried about a packed schedule ahead in the run-up to the IPL which would mean staying in the bio-bubble environment for months. Australia recently defeated England 4-0 in the Ashes 2021-22 and are set to host trans-Tasman rivals New Zealand in a limited-overs series from January 30 which will be followed by a T20I series against Sri Lanka at home. Australia are scheduled to tour Pakistan in February for three Tests, as many ODIs and one T20I which will be followed by IPL 2022 in April. Starc had recently hinted at taking part in the upcoming IPL mega auction but as per Cricbuzz, his participation is now in doubt. "I've got two days to get my paperwork in, so that might be something to do today before training. I've not put my name down just yet, but I've got a couple more days to decide on that. It's certainly on the table regardless of what the schedule has got coming up," the Australian pacer had said after the conclusion of Ashes 2021-22. Also Read: Shreyas Iyer to replace Virat Kohli as RCB captain? Three IPL teams eye ex-DC skipper at mega auction Cummins, who was part of the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) squad in IPL 2021, had pulled out of the second phase of the league due to personal reasons and might consider not entering the mega auction this year. The BCCI has extended the deadline for player enrolment in mega auction till January 20.

Ben Stokes, Pat Cummins and other top England, Australia players in doubt over entering IPL mega auction

England had another bad day at the office as Australia once again dominated the proceedings on Day 4 of the onging second Test in Ashes 2021-22. The hosts rode on half-centuries from Marnus Labuschagne (51) and Travis Head (51) to help Australia extend their lead past the 450-run mark and set up a daunting target of 468 runs for England.

England batters were expected to stage a fightback, however, the visitors were further pinned back by the Aussies after losing opener Haseeb Hameed cheaply on a duck in the second over of their second innings. The visitors then lost Dawid Malan (20), Rory Burns (34) and Joe Root (24) by the end of Day 4's play to be reeling at 82/4 with a staggering 386 runs to chase.

For Root, the day went worse from bad as he copped a blow on the box off a delivery from left-arm pacer Mitchell Starc. Root, who had been taken for scans after an abdomen injury during England's first innings, was once again hit around the same region and needed physio's attention.&nbsp;

Root was clearly in pain and not comfortable as he was sene struggling to complete a run after being hit on the box. Root's funny way of completing the run due to the pain left the commentators, including former Australia captain Rickey Ponting in splits. Ponting is part of the commentary panel for 7Cricket for the ongoing Ashes 2021-22.&nbsp;

While some criticised the commentators for their gesture, some fans saw the funny side of the things as the video went viral on social media. David Warner, who was fielding first slip, was also seen smiling as he saw Root complete the run uncomfortably.

Watch video:

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Absolute scenes in the commentary box, completely losing it watching Joe Root run <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ashes?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ashes</a> <a href="https://t.co/0CoJCSPTKD">pic.twitter.com/0CoJCSPTKD</a>
— 7Cricket (@7Cricket) <a href="https://twitter.com/7Cricket/status/1472530294976638976?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 19, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-is-ordinary-and-unlucky-australia-legend-calls-joe-root-poor-captain-as-england-struggle-in-ashes-438168">&nbsp;'He is ordinary and unlucky': Australia legend calls Joe Root poor captain as England struggle in Ashes</a>

Australia close in on back-to-back wins

Australia are currently 1-0 ahead in the Ashes 2021-22 after winning the first Test at The Gabba by nine wickets and care closing in on another big win in Adelaide. The hosts, who picked up four wickets in England's second innings on Day 4, are only six wickets away from clinching the second Test and making it 2-0.

&nbsp;

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England had another bad day at the office as Australia once again dominated the proceedings on Day 4 of the onging second Test in Ashes 2021-22. The hosts rode on half-centuries from Marnus Labuschagne (51) and Travis Head (51) to help Australia extend their lead past the 450-run mark and set up a daunting target of 468 runs for England.

England had another bad day at the office as Australia once again dominated the proceedings on Day 4 of the onging second Test in Ashes 2021-22. The hosts rode on half-centuries from Marnus Labuschagne (51) and Travis Head (51) to help Australia extend their lead past the 450-run mark and set up a daunting target of 468 runs for England. England batters were expected to stage a fightback, however, the visitors were further pinned back by the Aussies after losing opener Haseeb Hameed cheaply on a duck in the second over of their second innings. The visitors then lost Dawid Malan (20), Rory Burns (34) and Joe Root (24) by the end of Day 4's play to be reeling at 82/4 with a staggering 386 runs to chase. For Root, the day went worse from bad as he copped a blow on the box off a delivery from left-arm pacer Mitchell Starc. Root, who had been taken for scans after an abdomen injury during England's first innings, was once again hit around the same region and needed physio's attention. Root was clearly in pain and not comfortable as he was sene struggling to complete a run after being hit on the box. Root's funny way of completing the run due to the pain left the commentators, including former Australia captain Rickey Ponting in splits. Ponting is part of the commentary panel for 7Cricket for the ongoing Ashes 2021-22. While some criticised the commentators for their gesture, some fans saw the funny side of the things as the video went viral on social media. David Warner, who was fielding first slip, was also seen smiling as he saw Root complete the run uncomfortably. Watch video: Absolute scenes in the commentary box, completely losing it watching Joe Root run #Ashes pic.twitter.com/0CoJCSPTKD — 7Cricket (@7Cricket) December 19, 2021 × Also Read: 'He is ordinary and unlucky': Australia legend calls Joe Root poor captain as England struggle in Ashes Australia close in on back-to-back wins Australia are currently 1-0 ahead in the Ashes 2021-22 after winning the first Test at The Gabba by nine wickets and care closing in on another big win in Adelaide. The hosts, who picked up four wickets in England's second innings on Day 4, are only six wickets away from clinching the second Test and making it 2-0.

WATCH: Ricky Ponting left in splits as Joe Root struggles to run after being hit on the box during 2nd Test

Joe Root fell in the final over of the fourth day Sunday to leave England in deep trouble at 82 for four chasing a massive 468 to win the second Ashes Test, needing a history-making miracle to avoid slumping 2-0 down in the series.

No team has ever posted such a big score in a fourth innings to win in the history of Test cricket -- with the West Indies' 418 for seven in beating Steve Waugh's Australia at St John's in 2003 the highest.

It is an even harder task at the Adelaide Oval, where Australia's 315 for six to defeat England in 1902 remains the best fourth-innings run chase.

England's problems stem from being bowled out, after a batting collapse, for 236 on Saturday in reply to Australia's 473 for nine declared.

They reached the close on day four with ailing skipper Root out in the last over of the day, leaving Ben Stokes not out three.

England are still 386 runs adrift, facing the near impossible task of batting out three sessions on the final day to salvage a draw with only six wickets remaining and the world's number one ranked Test batsman back in the pavilion.

The hosts resumed their second innings at 45 for one and declared on 230 for nine midway through the second session, giving their bowlers a crack at England with the pink ball as twilight loomed.&nbsp;

They immediately made inroads with Jhye Richardson steaming in to Haseeb Hameed and the ball flying off his glove to wicketkeeper Alex Carey without scoring.

Dawid Malan, who hit 80 in the first innings, was dropped by Steve Smith, but only lasted three more balls before debutant Michael Neser trapped him lbw for 20.&nbsp;

Opener Rory Burns was desperate for a big score after a lean spell and managed 34, but was then beaten by Richardson's sheer pace, edging to Smith at slip.

Root hurt his abdomen during a warm-up that saw him miss the opening 85 minutes while he went for a scan.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-england-pacer-ollie-robinson-wows-fans-turns-off-spinner-in-2nd-ashes-test-against-australia-438139">WATCH: England pacer Ollie Robinson wows fans, turns off-spinner in 2nd Ashes Test against Australia</a>

He appeared mostly untroubled while batting but late in the day took a nasty blow in the same area from Mitchell&nbsp;Starc&nbsp;that left him writhing on the ground in agony.

Root gingerly got up, but in a huge blow was out for 24 in the final over, caught by Carey off&nbsp;Starc. &nbsp;

With England crashing by nine wickets in the first Test at Brisbane, their hopes are all but over of going into the Boxing Day Test at Melbourne in a week's time only 1-0 down.

A 2-0 defeicit in the five-match series will mean the Ashes are as good as gone. The only instance of a team coming from 2-0 down to win the urn was by Australia in the 1936-37 series.

Hero and villain Buttler

Earlier, Marnus Labuschagne and Travis Head both made 51 for Australia, steadying the innings after England took three quick wickets for seven runs to start the day.

Interim skipper Smith could have enforced the follow-on late Saturday, but opted to send in his batsmen to build an unassailable advantage.

Marcus Harris resumed Sunday not out 21 with nightwatchman Neser on two after they lost David Warner to an amateurish run-out the previous evening.&nbsp;

Neser only survived seven balls before a full-length Jimmy Anderson delivery rattled his middle stump, and Harris departed to a blinding catch from wicketkeeper Jos Buttler after getting a nick off Stuart Broad.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/mitchell-starc-becomes-first-bowler-to-pick-50-wickets-with-pink-ball-in-day-night-tests-437967">Mitchell Starc becomes first bowler to pick 50 wickets with pink ball in Day-Night Test</a>

Buttler's celebrations were short-lived when he incredibly missed a regulation catch off Smith the very next ball, in a blunder reminiscent of the two sitters he put down from Labuschagne in the first innings.

But he soon went from villain to hero again by taking another fine diving catch to remove Smith for six off Ollie Robinson.

Head played at a rapid clip to reach an eighth Test half-century from 49 balls, but then pulled Robinson to Ben Stokes in the deep.

Labuschagne took 96 balls to reach his 50 but also holed out to Stokes, becoming part-time spinner Malan's first Test wicket, before late cameos ahead of the declaration.

Joe Root fell in the final over of the fourth day Sunday to leave England in deep trouble at 82 for four chasing a massive 468 to win the second Ashes Test, needing a history-making miracle to avoid slumping 2-0 down in the series.

Joe Root fell in the final over of the fourth day Sunday to leave England in deep trouble at 82 for four chasing a massive 468 to win the second Ashes Test, needing a history-making miracle to avoid slumping 2-0 down in the series. No team has ever posted such a big score in a fourth innings to win in the history of Test cricket -- with the West Indies' 418 for seven in beating Steve Waugh's Australia at St John's in 2003 the highest. It is an even harder task at the Adelaide Oval, where Australia's 315 for six to defeat England in 1902 remains the best fourth-innings run chase. England's problems stem from being bowled out, after a batting collapse, for 236 on Saturday in reply to Australia's 473 for nine declared. They reached the close on day four with ailing skipper Root out in the last over of the day, leaving Ben Stokes not out three. England are still 386 runs adrift, facing the near impossible task of batting out three sessions on the final day to salvage a draw with only six wickets remaining and the world's number one ranked Test batsman back in the pavilion. The hosts resumed their second innings at 45 for one and declared on 230 for nine midway through the second session, giving their bowlers a crack at England with the pink ball as twilight loomed. They immediately made inroads with Jhye Richardson steaming in to Haseeb Hameed and the ball flying off his glove to wicketkeeper Alex Carey without scoring. Dawid Malan, who hit 80 in the first innings, was dropped by Steve Smith, but only lasted three more balls before debutant Michael Neser trapped him lbw for 20. Opener Rory Burns was desperate for a big score after a lean spell and managed 34, but was then beaten by Richardson's sheer pace, edging to Smith at slip. Root hurt his abdomen during a warm-up that saw him miss the opening 85 minutes while he went for a scan. ALSO READ: WATCH: England pacer Ollie Robinson wows fans, turns off-spinner in 2nd Ashes Test against Australia He appeared mostly untroubled while batting but late in the day took a nasty blow in the same area from Mitchell Starc that left him writhing on the ground in agony. Root gingerly got up, but in a huge blow was out for 24 in the final over, caught by Carey off Starc. With England crashing by nine wickets in the first Test at Brisbane, their hopes are all but over of going into the Boxing Day Test at Melbourne in a week's time only 1-0 down. A 2-0 defeicit in the five-match series will mean the Ashes are as good as gone. The only instance of a team coming from 2-0 down to win the urn was by Australia in the 1936-37 series. Hero and villain Buttler Earlier, Marnus Labuschagne and Travis Head both made 51 for Australia, steadying the innings after England took three quick wickets for seven runs to start the day. Interim skipper Smith could have enforced the follow-on late Saturday, but opted to send in his batsmen to build an unassailable advantage. Marcus Harris resumed Sunday not out 21 with nightwatchman Neser on two after they lost David Warner to an amateurish run-out the previous evening. Neser only survived seven balls before a full-length Jimmy Anderson delivery rattled his middle stump, and Harris departed to a blinding catch from wicketkeeper Jos Buttler after getting a nick off Stuart Broad. ALSO READ: Mitchell Starc becomes first bowler to pick 50 wickets with pink ball in Day-Night Test Buttler's celebrations were short-lived when he incredibly missed a regulation catch off Smith the very next ball, in a blunder reminiscent of the two sitters he put down from Labuschagne in the first innings. But he soon went from villain to hero again by taking another fine diving catch to remove Smith for six off Ollie Robinson. Head played at a rapid clip to reach an eighth Test half-century from 49 balls, but then pulled Robinson to Ben Stokes in the deep. Labuschagne took 96 balls to reach his 50 but also holed out to Stokes, becoming part-time spinner Malan's first Test wicket, before late cameos ahead of the declaration.

Ashes 2nd Test, Day 4: Richardson, Starc strike to put Australia in closing distance of another big win

The left-arm Australian pacer Mitchell Starc was the pick of the Australian bowlers as the hosts bowled out England for a 236 in the first innings of the 2nd Ashes Test match played being at Adelaide.

The Aussies took a massive 237-run first innings lead in the Day-Night Test match. Starc made the most of the Pink ball picking up 4 wickets.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashes-2nd-test-day-3-hosts-in-full-control-after-starc-and-lyon-wreak-havoc-to-bundle-out-england-for-236-437960">Ashes 2nd Test, Day 3: Hosts in full control after Starc and Lyon wreak havoc to bundle out England for 236</a>

Starc gave Australia the first breakthrough dismissing opener Rory Burns in the last session of day-2. He also got the prized scalp of Dawid Malan for 80 who at one point looked on course for a century.

The left-arm pacer was in no mood to stop as he then dismissed wicket-keeper batter Jos Buttler to take his third wicket of the innings and wrapped up the English tail dismissing Stuart Broad to end up with figures of 4 for 37 in his 16 overs and in-process becoming the first bowler in the history of international cricket to pick 50 wickets with the Pink ball in the Day-Night Test match.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kl-rahul-to-be-indias-vice-captain-for-south-africa-test-series-in-rohit-sharmas-absence-report-437908">KL Rahul to be India's vice-captain for South Africa Test series in Rohit Sharma's absence - Report</a>

Australia have a perfect record in Day-Night Tests winning all the eight matches they have played so far and they are looking on course for yet another win.

Credit to Australia's success with the ball goes to the Pink ball master Starc as he has been their most consistent performer picking up 50 wickets and becoming the first international bowler to do so.

The left-arm Australian pacer Mitchell Starc was the pick of the Australian bowlers as the hosts bowled out England for a 236 in the first innings of the 2nd Ashes Test match played being at Adelaide.

The left-arm Australian pacer Mitchell Starc was the pick of the Australian bowlers as the hosts bowled out England for a 236 in the first innings of the 2nd Ashes Test match played being at Adelaide. The Aussies took a massive 237-run first innings lead in the Day-Night Test match. Starc made the most of the Pink ball picking up 4 wickets. ALSO READ: Ashes 2nd Test, Day 3: Hosts in full control after Starc and Lyon wreak havoc to bundle out England for 236 Starc gave Australia the first breakthrough dismissing opener Rory Burns in the last session of day-2. He also got the prized scalp of Dawid Malan for 80 who at one point looked on course for a century. The left-arm pacer was in no mood to stop as he then dismissed wicket-keeper batter Jos Buttler to take his third wicket of the innings and wrapped up the English tail dismissing Stuart Broad to end up with figures of 4 for 37 in his 16 overs and in-process becoming the first bowler in the history of international cricket to pick 50 wickets with the Pink ball in the Day-Night Test match. ALSO READ: KL Rahul to be India's vice-captain for South Africa Test series in Rohit Sharma's absence - Report Australia have a perfect record in Day-Night Tests winning all the eight matches they have played so far and they are looking on course for yet another win. Credit to Australia's success with the ball goes to the Pink ball master Starc as he has been their most consistent performer picking up 50 wickets and becoming the first international bowler to do so.

Mitchell Starc becomes first bowler to pick 50 wickets with pink ball in Day-Night Tests

England were spared the ignominy of the follow-on but Australia appeared on course for victory after dominating day three of the day-night second Ashes test at the Adelaide Oval on Saturday.

Spearheading Australia's pace attack, depleted by the absence of Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood, Mitchell Starc combined with spinner Nathan Lyon to bundle out England for 236.

The hosts, who had declared their first innings on 473-9, finished the day on 45-1 for an overall lead of 282 and looking primed to go 2-0 up in the five-test series.

Marcus Harris was batting on 21, having featured in a mix-up that resulted in opening partner David Warner's run out for 13.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kl-rahul-to-be-indias-vice-captain-for-south-africa-test-series-in-rohit-sharmas-absence-report-437908">KL Rahul to be India's vice-captain for South Africa Test series in Rohit Sharma's absence - Report</a>

Debutant Michael Neser, replacing Cummins who missed out for being a close contact of a positive COVID-19 case, was on two in his nightwatchman's role.

The day had begun so brightly for England with Joe Root and Dawid Malan sharing an unbeaten 138 during the first session but the wheels came off their innings soon after the dinner break.

Cameron Green broke the stand when he had Root, who made 62, caught by Australia stand-in skipper Steve Smith at first slip.

It was a ball Root could have left and the England captain was furious with himself as he walked off after falling short again of his first century in Australia.

It soon got worse for England as Malan, who scored 80, slashed a Starc (4-37) delivery that he should have left with Smith taking that catch too.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cristiano-ronaldo-beats-lionel-messi-sachin-tendulkar-to-be-named-most-admired-sportsperson-in-the-world-437892">Ronaldo beats Lionel Messi, Sachin Tendulkar to be named most-admired sportsperson in the world</a>

Ollie Pope (five) survived a review but squeezed a Lyon (3-58) delivery to Marnus Labuschagne fielding close in and, moments later, Jos Buttler fell for a duck to Starc.

Lyon also dismissed Chris Woakes and Ollie Robinson as England, cruising at 150-2, lost their last eight wickets for 86 runs.

Failure to take more than one wicket in the late night session, considered a pace bowler`s best time in a pink-ball test, only compounded England’s misery after an abject batting display.

England were spared the ignominy of the follow-on but Australia appeared on course for victory after dominating day three of the day-night second Ashes test at the Adelaide Oval on Saturday.

England were spared the ignominy of the follow-on but Australia appeared on course for victory after dominating day three of the day-night second Ashes test at the Adelaide Oval on Saturday. Spearheading Australia's pace attack, depleted by the absence of Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood, Mitchell Starc combined with spinner Nathan Lyon to bundle out England for 236. The hosts, who had declared their first innings on 473-9, finished the day on 45-1 for an overall lead of 282 and looking primed to go 2-0 up in the five-test series. Marcus Harris was batting on 21, having featured in a mix-up that resulted in opening partner David Warner's run out for 13. ALSO READ: KL Rahul to be India's vice-captain for South Africa Test series in Rohit Sharma's absence - Report Debutant Michael Neser, replacing Cummins who missed out for being a close contact of a positive COVID-19 case, was on two in his nightwatchman's role. The day had begun so brightly for England with Joe Root and Dawid Malan sharing an unbeaten 138 during the first session but the wheels came off their innings soon after the dinner break. Cameron Green broke the stand when he had Root, who made 62, caught by Australia stand-in skipper Steve Smith at first slip. It was a ball Root could have left and the England captain was furious with himself as he walked off after falling short again of his first century in Australia. It soon got worse for England as Malan, who scored 80, slashed a Starc (4-37) delivery that he should have left with Smith taking that catch too. ALSO READ: Ronaldo beats Lionel Messi, Sachin Tendulkar to be named most-admired sportsperson in the world Ollie Pope (five) survived a review but squeezed a Lyon (3-58) delivery to Marnus Labuschagne fielding close in and, moments later, Jos Buttler fell for a duck to Starc. Lyon also dismissed Chris Woakes and Ollie Robinson as England, cruising at 150-2, lost their last eight wickets for 86 runs. Failure to take more than one wicket in the late night session, considered a pace bowler`s best time in a pink-ball test, only compounded England’s misery after an abject batting display.

Ashes 2nd Test, Day 3: Hosts in full control after Starc and Lyon wreak havoc to bundle out England for 236

After a long wait, the Ashes 2021/22 finally got off to a start on Wednesday (December 8) at The Gabba, Brisbane. The series was off to a dream start for the Pat Cummins-led hosts as Mitchell Starc got rid of England opener Rory Burns on the first ball of the series.

Starc cleaned up Burns' stumps on the first ball itself as the ball got some late movement and went around the batter's pads to hit the timber. Here's the dismissal which lit up the atmosphere at The Gabba, Brisbane:

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WHAT A WAY TO START THE <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ASHES?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ASHES</a>! <a href="https://t.co/XtaiJ3SKeV">pic.twitter.com/XtaiJ3SKeV</a>
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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashes-2021-england-on-back-foot-after-being-bowled-out-for-147-in-horror-start-at-the-gabba-435067">Ashes 2021: England on back foot after being bowled out for 147 in horror start at The Gabba</a>

For the unversed, this became only the second occasion when a wicket fell on the very first delivery of an Ashes series. On December 4 in 1936, England's Stan Worthington was dismissed by Australia's Ernie McCormick on the first ball of Ashes 1936/37. After 82 years, Starc recreated the feat. It is interesting to note that on both occasions the Ashes edition has taken place Down Under (i.e., in Aussies' backyard).

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashes-2021-pat-cummins-shines-on-captaincy-debut-breaks-plethora-of-records-with-five-fer-vs-england-435020">Ashes 2021: Pat Cummins shines on captaincy debut, breaks plethora of records with five-fer vs England</a>

Talking about Day 1, Cummins led from the front as his 5 for 38,&nbsp;on captaincy debut, rattled England for 146 after Joe Root &amp; Co. decided to bat first in a rain-marred day. The Aussies will come out to bat on the second day and hope to take a mammoth lead over the clueless visitors.

After a long wait, the Ashes 2021/22 finally got off to a start on Wednesday (December 8) at The Gabba, Brisbane. The series was off to a dream start for the Pat Cummins-led hosts as Mitchell Starc got rid of England opener Rory Burns on the first ball of the series.

After a long wait, the Ashes 2021/22 finally got off to a start on Wednesday (December 8) at The Gabba, Brisbane. The series was off to a dream start for the Pat Cummins-led hosts as Mitchell Starc got rid of England opener Rory Burns on the first ball of the series. Starc cleaned up Burns' stumps on the first ball itself as the ball got some late movement and went around the batter's pads to hit the timber. Here's the dismissal which lit up the atmosphere at The Gabba, Brisbane: WHAT A WAY TO START THE #ASHES! pic.twitter.com/XtaiJ3SKeV — cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) December 8, 2021 × ALSO READ | Ashes 2021: England on back foot after being bowled out for 147 in horror start at The Gabba For the unversed, this became only the second occasion when a wicket fell on the very first delivery of an Ashes series. On December 4 in 1936, England's Stan Worthington was dismissed by Australia's Ernie McCormick on the first ball of Ashes 1936/37. After 82 years, Starc recreated the feat. It is interesting to note that on both occasions the Ashes edition has taken place Down Under (i.e., in Aussies' backyard). ALSO READ | Ashes 2021: Pat Cummins shines on captaincy debut, breaks plethora of records with five-fer vs England Talking about Day 1, Cummins led from the front as his 5 for 38, on captaincy debut, rattled England for 146 after Joe Root & Co. decided to bat first in a rain-marred day. The Aussies will come out to bat on the second day and hope to take a mammoth lead over the clueless visitors.

Starc adds his name to elite list with first-ball dismissal of Rory Burns in Ashes 2021 opener - Watch

Australia Test skipper Pat Cummins on Sunday revealed the playing XI for the upcoming first Ashes Test, beginning Wednesday at the Gabba.

Travis Head will bat at number five while Mitchell Starc has also found a place in the bowling attack.

On the other hand, England skipper Joe Root opted to not disclose the playing XI three days ahead of the game.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashes-england-wary-of-david-warners-quality-and-record-at-home-says-james-anderson-433503">Ashes: England wary of David Warner's quality and record at home, says James Anderson</a>

"We've got all the options on the table but we're not going to name a team just yet. We'll have to see the forecast and how that pitch changes over the next couple of days," cricket.com.au quoted Root as saying.

"But it's a great place to play spin. It's something we'll weigh up and consider, but we're not in a position to make that call right now," he added.

Earlier, Tim Paine had stepped down as the Australia captain after a sexting scandal and Cummins was appointed as the new leader. Steve Smith will don the hat of vice-captain.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/michael-vaughan-to-not-play-a-part-in-bbcs-ashes-2021-coverage-amid-racism-allegations-431680">Michael Vaughan to not play a part in BBC's Ashes 2021 coverage amid racism allegations</a>

Australia XI: Marcus Harris, David Warner, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith, Travis Head, Cameron Green, Alex Carey (wk), Pat Cummins (c), Mitch Starc, Nathan Lyon, Josh Hazlewood.&nbsp;

Australia Test skipper Pat Cummins on Sunday revealed the playing XI for the upcoming first Ashes Test, beginning Wednesday at the Gabba. Travis Head will bat at number five while Mitchell Starc has also found a place in the bowling attack.

Australia Test skipper Pat Cummins on Sunday revealed the playing XI for the upcoming first Ashes Test, beginning Wednesday at the Gabba. Travis Head will bat at number five while Mitchell Starc has also found a place in the bowling attack. On the other hand, England skipper Joe Root opted to not disclose the playing XI three days ahead of the game. ALSO READ: Ashes: England wary of David Warner's quality and record at home, says James Anderson "We've got all the options on the table but we're not going to name a team just yet. We'll have to see the forecast and how that pitch changes over the next couple of days," cricket.com.au quoted Root as saying. "But it's a great place to play spin. It's something we'll weigh up and consider, but we're not in a position to make that call right now," he added. Earlier, Tim Paine had stepped down as the Australia captain after a sexting scandal and Cummins was appointed as the new leader. Steve Smith will don the hat of vice-captain. ALSO READ: Michael Vaughan to not play a part in BBC's Ashes 2021 coverage amid racism allegations Australia XI: Marcus Harris, David Warner, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith, Travis Head, Cameron Green, Alex Carey (wk), Pat Cummins (c), Mitch Starc, Nathan Lyon, Josh Hazlewood.

Ashes, 1st Test: Pat Cummins reveals Australia's playing XI, Mitchell Starc included

Australia handed the West Indies a six-wicket defeat on Monday to clinch a 2-1 one-day international series win and leave home captain Kieron Pollard criticising the quality of the pitch in Bridgetown.

The Australians cruised past their modest target of 153 runs with just over 19 overs remaining as Matthew Wade top scored for the tourists with 51 runs, ensuring stand-in captain Alex Carey led the team to a series victory.

"I think both teams struggled on the pitch and I think that's unacceptable for international cricket," said Pollard, whose team were bowled out with more than four overs remaining.

"We're not going to make excuses. We accept that we batted badly but I don't think the scores that we have gotten in this three-match series, with two top international teams, I think that's very embarrassing for us as a people."

All five Australian bowlers claimed wickets with Mitchell Starc taking three for 43 while his new-ball partner Josh Hazlewood took two for 18 from eight overs.

There was joy, too, for spinner Ashton Agar, who relished the conditions as he claimed two wickets for 31 runs in his allotted 10 overs.

The West Indies struggled with the bat, with only opener Evin Lewis making a significant contribution against the tourists with a knock of 55 runs.

Lewis' innings came after he had been temporarily forced from the field having played a ball from Hazlewood onto his own helmet with the West Indies at 14 without loss.

By the time he returned following Keiron Pollard's dismissal, the hosts were 71 for five and although Lewis continued to offer resistance, he was soon left unaccompanied at the crease with the West Indies all out for 152.

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Australia claim a 2-1 series win! ✅ 
 
The visitors surge to a six-wicket triumph over West Indies in Bridgetown. 
 
Matthew Wade the pick of the Australian batters with 51* off 52 balls.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WIvAUS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WIvAUS</a> | <a href="https://t.co/H7Cnw8uGeX">https://t.co/H7Cnw8uGeX</a> <a href="https://t.co/E0udACVTYx">pic.twitter.com/E0udACVTYx</a>
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That total caused the Australians few problems, with Carey steadying his team after the early loss of Moises Henriques and Josh Philippe before Wade and Agar combined to lead the tourists to victory.

"Personally and collectively it's really exciting," said Carey, who replaced Aaron Finch as captain after he returned to Australia with a knee injury.

"It's tough to leave home during a pandemic and the commitment that this group has shown, it's fantastic to see a result go our way tonight.

"I thought the bowlers did a great job. I think there were some good innings throughout the series."

Australia handed the West Indies a six-wicket defeat on Monday to clinch a 2-1 one-day international series win and leave home captain Kieron Pollard criticising the quality of the pitch in Bridgetown.

Australia handed the West Indies a six-wicket defeat on Monday to clinch a 2-1 one-day international series win and leave home captain Kieron Pollard criticising the quality of the pitch in Bridgetown. The Australians cruised past their modest target of 153 runs with just over 19 overs remaining as Matthew Wade top scored for the tourists with 51 runs, ensuring stand-in captain Alex Carey led the team to a series victory. "I think both teams struggled on the pitch and I think that's unacceptable for international cricket," said Pollard, whose team were bowled out with more than four overs remaining. "We're not going to make excuses. We accept that we batted badly but I don't think the scores that we have gotten in this three-match series, with two top international teams, I think that's very embarrassing for us as a people." All five Australian bowlers claimed wickets with Mitchell Starc taking three for 43 while his new-ball partner Josh Hazlewood took two for 18 from eight overs. There was joy, too, for spinner Ashton Agar, who relished the conditions as he claimed two wickets for 31 runs in his allotted 10 overs. The West Indies struggled with the bat, with only opener Evin Lewis making a significant contribution against the tourists with a knock of 55 runs. Lewis' innings came after he had been temporarily forced from the field having played a ball from Hazlewood onto his own helmet with the West Indies at 14 without loss. By the time he returned following Keiron Pollard's dismissal, the hosts were 71 for five and although Lewis continued to offer resistance, he was soon left unaccompanied at the crease with the West Indies all out for 152. Australia claim a 2-1 series win! ✅ The visitors surge to a six-wicket triumph over West Indies in Bridgetown. Matthew Wade the pick of the Australian batters with 51* off 52 balls.#WIvAUS | https://t.co/H7Cnw8uGeX pic.twitter.com/E0udACVTYx — ICC (@ICC) July 27, 2021 × That total caused the Australians few problems, with Carey steadying his team after the early loss of Moises Henriques and Josh Philippe before Wade and Agar combined to lead the tourists to victory. "Personally and collectively it's really exciting," said Carey, who replaced Aaron Finch as captain after he returned to Australia with a knee injury. "It's tough to leave home during a pandemic and the commitment that this group has shown, it's fantastic to see a result go our way tonight. "I thought the bowlers did a great job. I think there were some good innings throughout the series."

Cricket: Kieron Pollard slams pitch as Australia cruise to series win

Mitchell Starc is ready to allow himself the best opportunity of being prepared for Test cricket in the midst of a schedule crunch which is additionally convoluted by the quarantine necessities in Australia.&nbsp;

Mitchell Starc is one of Australia's multi-format players who could be affected by the exceptionally close turnaround between the T20 World Cup and the beginning of the home Test season against Afghanistan in Hobart. He has depicted the forthcoming stage as an 'interesting' one for multi-format players from the nation will have to barge between formats.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="Cricket: Steve Smith ready to sacrifice T20 World Cup participation to be fit for Ashes">Cricket: Steve Smith ready to sacrifice T20 World Cup participation to be fit for Ashes</a>

Opening up on the tight schedule, which could represent a test for multi-format players, Mitchell Starc was cited as saying by ESPN Cricinfo: "It's a very interesting one. I'm sure Cricket Australia is thinking about it and putting plans in place. The way of the world at the moment throws up a lot of hurdles, and then you are throwing two weeks of quarantine like we are going to have to do coming back from this tour as well; there's a lot of question marks."&nbsp;

Mitchell Starc, notwithstanding, called attention to that rules contrast as per the venues, and things could be chipped away at, alluding to the home series against India.

"You look back to the summer, and we played Sydney under restrictions; Brisbane was under full quarantine, so there's certainly precedence set there in how we approach different games, especially in Australia. In that respect, I don't think there're any hurdles to get around in playing cricket under quarantine conditions; it's just some of the finer details that government and cricket will have to work together," he added.

The 31-year-old conceded that the multi-format players would need to play as much cricket as possible. He said in such a manner: “Test cricket is certainly the pinnacle for a lot of us; certainly it is for me, as is a World Cup, so it will be hard to pick and choose."&nbsp;

The Australian limited-overs crew has shown up in West Indies for an essential visit in front of the T20 World Cup. Following their Caribbean trip, they will go to Bangladesh for another white-ball series. While many enormous names, including David Warner, Pat Cummins, Glenn Maxwell, and Steve Smith, have opted out from the two tours, Mitchell Starc will be anticipating stretch out beyond the T20 World Cup.&nbsp;

"It's a great opportunity for the group to start preparing with a bit more focus on that World Cup," he said. "Don't think I've played 10 T20s in the last four years let alone in the space of a few weeks so personally, it would be nice to get a bit of a rhythm of T20 cricket.

"The back end of the summer I was heavily focused on the red-ball so put the white-ball to the side. To prepare for this tour it's all been white-ball focused with what's coming up in the next few months. Preparing for shorter spells, more of a focus on staying unpredictable or&nbsp;variations. I don't change a whole lot in my preparation across the formats but certainly, they'll be a lot more planning and focus on tactically what we'll take on this series."

Mitchell Starc is ready to allow himself the best opportunity of being prepared for Test cricket in the midst of a schedule crunch which is additionally convoluted by the quarantine necessities in Australia.

Mitchell Starc is ready to allow himself the best opportunity of being prepared for Test cricket in the midst of a schedule crunch which is additionally convoluted by the quarantine necessities in Australia. Mitchell Starc is one of Australia's multi-format players who could be affected by the exceptionally close turnaround between the T20 World Cup and the beginning of the home Test season against Afghanistan in Hobart. He has depicted the forthcoming stage as an 'interesting' one for multi-format players from the nation will have to barge between formats. ALSO READ: Cricket: Steve Smith ready to sacrifice T20 World Cup participation to be fit for Ashes Opening up on the tight schedule, which could represent a test for multi-format players, Mitchell Starc was cited as saying by ESPN Cricinfo: "It's a very interesting one. I'm sure Cricket Australia is thinking about it and putting plans in place. The way of the world at the moment throws up a lot of hurdles, and then you are throwing two weeks of quarantine like we are going to have to do coming back from this tour as well; there's a lot of question marks." Mitchell Starc, notwithstanding, called attention to that rules contrast as per the venues, and things could be chipped away at, alluding to the home series against India. "You look back to the summer, and we played Sydney under restrictions; Brisbane was under full quarantine, so there's certainly precedence set there in how we approach different games, especially in Australia. In that respect, I don't think there're any hurdles to get around in playing cricket under quarantine conditions; it's just some of the finer details that government and cricket will have to work together," he added. The 31-year-old conceded that the multi-format players would need to play as much cricket as possible. He said in such a manner: “Test cricket is certainly the pinnacle for a lot of us; certainly it is for me, as is a World Cup, so it will be hard to pick and choose." The Australian limited-overs crew has shown up in West Indies for an essential visit in front of the T20 World Cup. Following their Caribbean trip, they will go to Bangladesh for another white-ball series. While many enormous names, including David Warner, Pat Cummins, Glenn Maxwell, and Steve Smith, have opted out from the two tours, Mitchell Starc will be anticipating stretch out beyond the T20 World Cup. "It's a great opportunity for the group to start preparing with a bit more focus on that World Cup," he said. "Don't think I've played 10 T20s in the last four years let alone in the space of a few weeks so personally, it would be nice to get a bit of a rhythm of T20 cricket. "The back end of the summer I was heavily focused on the red-ball so put the white-ball to the side. To prepare for this tour it's all been white-ball focused with what's coming up in the next few months. Preparing for shorter spells, more of a focus on staying unpredictable or variations. I don't change a whole lot in my preparation across the formats but certainly, they'll be a lot more planning and focus on tactically what we'll take on this series."

Cricket: Mitchell Starc unperturbed by quarantine hurdle amidst Australia’s tight scheduled

Ian Chappell has proposed an extreme answer for the ball-tampering discussions. He recommended authorizing one substance to help the bowlers swing the ball to discourage them from utilizing illicit things like sandpaper.&nbsp;

Ball-tampering has been in the news indeed after Cameron Bancroft alluded to the association of Australian bowlers in the sandpaper episode in the 2018 Cape Town Test.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-remainder-of-ipl-2021-shifted-to-uae-call-on-t20-world-cup-to-be-taken-later-388203" hreflang="en">Cricket: Remainder of IPL 2021 shifted to UAE, call on T20 World Cup to be taken later</a>

While the Aussie bowlers have inside and out denied the cases, Cricket Australia has stayed quiet in the wake of communicating their longing to resume the case.&nbsp;

Notwithstanding, numerous from the cricket organization have come out to guarantee that inconspicuous ball-tampering was pervasive even before 2018 and would remain so later on too. Ian Chappell feels this could be blocked by asking players what they need to keep up the shine and giving them 'something in return'.

In a conversation with ESPNcricinfo Ian Chappell said: "I think about 20 years ago, I said what they should do is go to the captains of every country and you get a list of things that they think will help the ball swing. Then you send us all these lists, we'll go through them and we'll come up with one thing and it will be a sensible thing, not using a bottle cap to scrape the ball. It'll be viable but we'll give you one thing that'll help you swing the ball and everything else will be illegal. Maybe I am naive but think if you did, you might stop all the other shenanigans because you give them something in return".

Ian Chappell additionally saw that contentions like ball-tampering, underarm ball. just emerge in light of the fact that the game is vigorously shifted in the blessing of the batsmen.&nbsp;

"Let's look at the way the laws are written. They are pretty much always written in favor of the batsman and if you go right back to underarm bowling to sidearm bowling... to body line and ball-tampering - they all come about because the balance is too much in favor of the batsmen and the bowlers say 'We have had enough, we are mad as hell and we are going to do something about it" - he added.

Ian Chappell likewise contended that the entire issue of ball-altering will not shrivel away without any problem. He cited David Warner's chief in advancing his point that the chance of the opener delivering a post-retirement book with 'every bit of relevant information will not allow the issue to bite the dust at any point in the near future.&nbsp;

"There have been a few suggestions that when David Warner retires, he's going to write a book and tell the 'whole truth and nothing but the truth' and with that sort of hanging in the air, I don't think there's any way this thing is going to die" - he signed off. 
&nbsp;

Ian Chappell has proposed an extreme answer for the ball-tampering discussions. He recommended authorizing one substance to help the bowlers swing the ball to discourage them from utilizing illicit things like sandpaper.

Ian Chappell has proposed an extreme answer for the ball-tampering discussions. He recommended authorizing one substance to help the bowlers swing the ball to discourage them from utilizing illicit things like sandpaper. Ball-tampering has been in the news indeed after Cameron Bancroft alluded to the association of Australian bowlers in the sandpaper episode in the 2018 Cape Town Test. ALSO READ: Cricket: Remainder of IPL 2021 shifted to UAE, call on T20 World Cup to be taken later While the Aussie bowlers have inside and out denied the cases, Cricket Australia has stayed quiet in the wake of communicating their longing to resume the case. Notwithstanding, numerous from the cricket organization have come out to guarantee that inconspicuous ball-tampering was pervasive even before 2018 and would remain so later on too. Ian Chappell feels this could be blocked by asking players what they need to keep up the shine and giving them 'something in return'. In a conversation with ESPNcricinfo Ian Chappell said: "I think about 20 years ago, I said what they should do is go to the captains of every country and you get a list of things that they think will help the ball swing. Then you send us all these lists, we'll go through them and we'll come up with one thing and it will be a sensible thing, not using a bottle cap to scrape the ball. It'll be viable but we'll give you one thing that'll help you swing the ball and everything else will be illegal. Maybe I am naive but think if you did, you might stop all the other shenanigans because you give them something in return". Ian Chappell additionally saw that contentions like ball-tampering, underarm ball. just emerge in light of the fact that the game is vigorously shifted in the blessing of the batsmen. "Let's look at the way the laws are written. They are pretty much always written in favor of the batsman and if you go right back to underarm bowling to sidearm bowling... to body line and ball-tampering - they all come about because the balance is too much in favor of the batsmen and the bowlers say 'We have had enough, we are mad as hell and we are going to do something about it" - he added. Ian Chappell likewise contended that the entire issue of ball-altering will not shrivel away without any problem. He cited David Warner's chief in advancing his point that the chance of the opener delivering a post-retirement book with 'every bit of relevant information will not allow the issue to bite the dust at any point in the near future. "There have been a few suggestions that when David Warner retires, he's going to write a book and tell the 'whole truth and nothing but the truth' and with that sort of hanging in the air, I don't think there's any way this thing is going to die" - he signed off.

Cricket: Ian Chappell's gives a thorough solution to stop ball-tampering

Australian bowling quarter of Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood, Mitchell Starc and Nathan Lyon has&nbsp;written a letter to the Australian public as they clarified their stance on the infamous sandpaper gate episode during the Newlands Test against South Africa in 2018 where Cameron Bancroft, Steve Smith and David Warner were found guilty of trying to alter the condition of the ball. <o:p></o:p>

While Warner and Smith completed their 12-month ban and Bancroft his nine-month suspension, recent statements by the latter have triggered the controversy once again. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cameron-bancroft-hints-australian-bowlers-were-aware-of-the-sandpaper-plot-385171">In a recent interview, Bancroft had hinted that bowlers were aware of ball-tampering during the infamous Test match</a>.<o:p></o:p>

Bancroft’s statement created an uproar among the cricket fans and pundits. Since Bancroft’s remarks, many former players including the likes of Michael Clarke, Adam Gilchrist, Michael Vaughan among others have said that bowlers are pretty aware of the condition of the ball. &nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/michael-clarke-adam-gilchrist-react-to-cameron-bancrofts-ball-tampering-remarks-385550" hreflang="en">Michael Clarke, Adam Gilchrist react to Cameron Bancroft's ball-tampering remarks</a><o:p></o:p>

Many even suggested that the bowlers from that Australian team should be interrogated again while others said cricket should move on from the dark episode. <o:p></o:p>

With allegations coming their way, Cummins, Starc, Hazlewood and Lyon have written a letter to the Australian public as they cleared the air surrounding the controversy. The quartet said that even the umpires failed to spot any changes to the ball and similarly, none of them had any clue about whether the ball was being tampered with or not.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-australia-reaches-out-to-cameron-bancroft-after-revelation-on-ball-tampering-issue-385562" hreflang="en">Cricket Australia reaches out to Cameron Bancroft after revelation on ball-tampering issue</a><o:p></o:p>

<h2 class="MsoNormal">Full statement by Cummins, Starc, Hazlewood and Lyon on sandpaper gate and recent allegations:</h2>

<h2 class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></h2>

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Media statement by Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood, Mitchell Starc and Nathan Lyon on recent allegations that "bowlers were aware" of ball-tampering during the Newlands Test.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SandpaperGate?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SandpaperGate</a> <a href="https://t.co/f7eynVJEmr">pic.twitter.com/f7eynVJEmr</a>
— Subhayan Chakraborty #MaskUp (@CricSubhayan) <a href="https://twitter.com/CricSubhayan/status/1394554868233170946?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 18, 2021</a></blockquote>
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To The Australian Public,<o:p></o:p>

We pride ourselves on our honesty. So it’s been disappointing to see that our integrity has been questioned by some journalists and past players in recent days in regard to the Cape Town Test of 2018.<o:p></o:p>

We have already answered questions many times on this issue but we feel compelled to put the key facts on the record again:<o:p></o:p>

We did not know a foreign substance was taken onto the field to alter the condition of the ball until we saw the images on the big screen at Newlands<o:p></o:p>

And to those who despite the absence of evidence, insist that ‘we must have known' about the use of a foreign substance simply because we are bowlers, we say this: The umpires during that Test match, Nigel Llong and Richard Illingworth, both very respected and experienced umpires, inspected the ball after the images surfaced on the TV coverage and did not change it because there was no sign of damage.<o:p></o:p>

None of this excuses what happened on the field that day at Newlands. It was wrong and it should have never happened.<o:p></o:p>

We’ve learned valuable lessons and we’d like to think the public can see a change for the better in terms of the way we play, the way we behave and respect the game. Our commitment to improving as people and players will continue.<o:p></o:p>

We respectfully request an end to the rumour-mongering and innuendo.<o:p></o:p>

It has gone on too long and it is time to move on.<o:p></o:p>

Regards<o:p></o:p>

Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood, Mitch Starc, Nathan Lyon<o:p></o:p>

Australian bowling quarter of Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood, Mitchell Starc and Nathan Lyon has written a letter to the Australian public as they clarified their stance on the infamous sandpaper gate episode during the Newlands Test against South Africa in 2018 where Cameron Bancroft, Steve Smith and David Warner were found guilty of trying to alter the condition of the ball.

Australian bowling quarter of Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood, Mitchell Starc and Nathan Lyon has written a letter to the Australian public as they clarified their stance on the infamous sandpaper gate episode during the Newlands Test against South Africa in 2018 where Cameron Bancroft, Steve Smith and David Warner were found guilty of trying to alter the condition of the ball. While Warner and Smith completed their 12-month ban and Bancroft his nine-month suspension, recent statements by the latter have triggered the controversy once again. In a recent interview, Bancroft had hinted that bowlers were aware of ball-tampering during the infamous Test match. Bancroft’s statement created an uproar among the cricket fans and pundits. Since Bancroft’s remarks, many former players including the likes of Michael Clarke, Adam Gilchrist, Michael Vaughan among others have said that bowlers are pretty aware of the condition of the ball. ALSO READ: Michael Clarke, Adam Gilchrist react to Cameron Bancroft's ball-tampering remarks Many even suggested that the bowlers from that Australian team should be interrogated again while others said cricket should move on from the dark episode. With allegations coming their way, Cummins, Starc, Hazlewood and Lyon have written a letter to the Australian public as they cleared the air surrounding the controversy. The quartet said that even the umpires failed to spot any changes to the ball and similarly, none of them had any clue about whether the ball was being tampered with or not. ALSO READ: Cricket Australia reaches out to Cameron Bancroft after revelation on ball-tampering issue Full statement by Cummins, Starc, Hazlewood and Lyon on sandpaper gate and recent allegations: Media statement by Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood, Mitchell Starc and Nathan Lyon on recent allegations that "bowlers were aware" of ball-tampering during the Newlands Test.#SandpaperGate pic.twitter.com/f7eynVJEmr — Subhayan Chakraborty #MaskUp (@CricSubhayan) May 18, 2021 × To The Australian Public, We pride ourselves on our honesty. So it’s been disappointing to see that our integrity has been questioned by some journalists and past players in recent days in regard to the Cape Town Test of 2018. We have already answered questions many times on this issue but we feel compelled to put the key facts on the record again: We did not know a foreign substance was taken onto the field to alter the condition of the ball until we saw the images on the big screen at Newlands And to those who despite the absence of evidence, insist that ‘we must have known' about the use of a foreign substance simply because we are bowlers, we say this: The umpires during that Test match, Nigel Llong and Richard Illingworth, both very respected and experienced umpires, inspected the ball after the images surfaced on the TV coverage and did not change it because there was no sign of damage. None of this excuses what happened on the field that day at Newlands. It was wrong and it should have never happened. We’ve learned valuable lessons and we’d like to think the public can see a change for the better in terms of the way we play, the way we behave and respect the game. Our commitment to improving as people and players will continue. We respectfully request an end to the rumour-mongering and innuendo. It has gone on too long and it is time to move on. Regards Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood, Mitch Starc, Nathan Lyon

Cricket: Cummins, Starc, Hazlewood, Lyon clarify stance on allegations related to sandpaper gate

A Mitchell Starc thunderbolt gave Australia a dream start Thursday before India dug in for an intimidating opening session on the first day of their day-night Test at Adelaide Oval Thursday.

Batting after captain Virat Kohli won the toss on an overcast day, the visitors ground to 41 for two&nbsp;by the first break, known as dinner despite being in mid-afternoon.

Cheteshwar Pujara was not out 17 from 88 balls and Kohli unbeaten on five as they fended off a barrage from Starc, Josh Hazlewood and Pat Cummins in front of a limited, but appreciative, crowd.

Cummins, the world's number one Test bowler, was the pick of the attack with 1-3 off six overs.

Australia went into the clash with their usual three quicks, but also debutant all-rounder Cameron Green, and they got off to a spectacular start.

Opener Prithvi Shaw was clean-bowled for a duck by left-armer Starc, the world's most potent pink-ball bowler, on only the second delivery, chopping onto his stumps as he looked to drive.

It was a poor shot and will give Indian selectors plenty to ponder after preferring him to fellow 21-year-old Shubman Gill, who has been in good touch.

Starc, who only rejoined the Australian squad this week after compassionate leave, almost trapped a tentative Pujara two balls later, catching an edge that fell just short of first slip.

But the experienced Pujara, whose 123 and 71 set up India for a 31-run win in Adelaide in 2018 en route to a maiden series victory in Australia, settled down and began blocking and grinding out runs.

It proved slow going as he and Mayank Agarwal rode their luck, with Pujara surviving again when a thick edge off Starc flew past Nathan Lyon's outstretched arm.

They scored just 21 in the first 10 overs before Cummins broke the second-wicket partnership with a beautiful delivery that clattered into Agarwal's middle stump, removing him for 17.

Superstar Kohli marched onto a ground he rates as his favourite overseas to steady the ship and see his team through to dinner without further loss.

A Mitchell Starc thunderbolt gave Australia a dream start Thursday before India dug in for an intimidating opening session on the first day of their day-night Test at Adelaide Oval Thursday.

A Mitchell Starc thunderbolt gave Australia a dream start Thursday before India dug in for an intimidating opening session on the first day of their day-night Test at Adelaide Oval Thursday. Batting after captain Virat Kohli won the toss on an overcast day, the visitors ground to 41 for two by the first break, known as dinner despite being in mid-afternoon. Cheteshwar Pujara was not out 17 from 88 balls and Kohli unbeaten on five as they fended off a barrage from Starc, Josh Hazlewood and Pat Cummins in front of a limited, but appreciative, crowd. Cummins, the world's number one Test bowler, was the pick of the attack with 1-3 off six overs. Australia went into the clash with their usual three quicks, but also debutant all-rounder Cameron Green, and they got off to a spectacular start. Opener Prithvi Shaw was clean-bowled for a duck by left-armer Starc, the world's most potent pink-ball bowler, on only the second delivery, chopping onto his stumps as he looked to drive. It was a poor shot and will give Indian selectors plenty to ponder after preferring him to fellow 21-year-old Shubman Gill, who has been in good touch. Starc, who only rejoined the Australian squad this week after compassionate leave, almost trapped a tentative Pujara two balls later, catching an edge that fell just short of first slip. But the experienced Pujara, whose 123 and 71 set up India for a 31-run win in Adelaide in 2018 en route to a maiden series victory in Australia, settled down and began blocking and grinding out runs. It proved slow going as he and Mayank Agarwal rode their luck, with Pujara surviving again when a thick edge off Starc flew past Nathan Lyon's outstretched arm. They scored just 21 in the first 10 overs before Cummins broke the second-wicket partnership with a beautiful delivery that clattered into Agarwal's middle stump, removing him for 17. Superstar Kohli marched onto a ground he rates as his favourite overseas to steady the ship and see his team through to dinner without further loss.

Starc, Cummins draw first blood in opening Test against India

Australia's pacer spearhead Mitchell Starc will be rejoining the squad in Adelaide on Monday to prepare for the first test against India after he withdrew from the T20 series due to a family illness.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/its-all-about-experimenting-kapil-dev-urges-kohli-to-promote-pandya-to-no4-in-t20is-349477" hreflang="en">Kapil Dev urges Virat Kohli to promote Hardik Pandya to No.4 in T20Is</a>

Cricket Australia on Sunday said that Starc will be travelling with several other members of the Australian side and the Indian team on a charter flight.&nbsp;

"We feel for Mitch at this difficult time and were happy he has taken time out to spend with his family," Australia coach Justin Langer said in a statement.

"We look forward to welcoming him back into the squad on Monday."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-think-shaun-marshs-time-is-done-brad-haddin-on-chances-of-veteran-aussies-selection-349465" hreflang="en">'I think Shaun Marsh’s time is done': Haddin on veteran Aussie's selection</a>

Starc's fellow paceman Josh Hazlewood also welcomed the fast bowler.&nbsp;

"It's obviously great news for us to have Starcy come in tomorrow," Hazlewood told reporters on Sunday. "He's a huge part of our team and a huge part of our attack.

"Everyone knows his numbers with the pink ball are pretty special so we welcome him with open arms."

Australia's pacer spearhead Mitchell Starc will be rejoining the squad in Adelaide on Monday to prepare for the first test against India after he withdrew from the T20 series due to a family illness.

Australia's pacer spearhead Mitchell Starc will be rejoining the squad in Adelaide on Monday to prepare for the first test against India after he withdrew from the T20 series due to a family illness. Also read: Kapil Dev urges Virat Kohli to promote Hardik Pandya to No.4 in T20Is Cricket Australia on Sunday said that Starc will be travelling with several other members of the Australian side and the Indian team on a charter flight. "We feel for Mitch at this difficult time and were happy he has taken time out to spend with his family," Australia coach Justin Langer said in a statement. "We look forward to welcoming him back into the squad on Monday." Also read: 'I think Shaun Marsh’s time is done': Haddin on veteran Aussie's selection Starc's fellow paceman Josh Hazlewood also welcomed the fast bowler. "It's obviously great news for us to have Starcy come in tomorrow," Hazlewood told reporters on Sunday. "He's a huge part of our team and a huge part of our attack. "Everyone knows his numbers with the pink ball are pretty special so we welcome him with open arms."

Mitchell Starc to rejoin the Australian squad after family illness

Mitchell Starc on Wednesday breathed fire as he took two wickets from the very first two deliveries of the first over to dismiss English opener Jason Roy and Joe Root in the third ODI between England and Australia at the Emirates Old Trafford in Manchester.&nbsp;

While the first delivery by Starc was way outside the off-stump, Roy went hard for the drive only to send it straight to the hands of Glenn Maxwell standing at point. Root may have thought to steady the rocky start but England’s Test captain was caught plumb by Starc in the second delivery as the southpaw bagged back-to-back wickets to leave England 0/2. However, captain Eoin Morgan denied him the hat-trick.&nbsp;

IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/ipl-2020-predicting-mvps-from-each-franchise-326829" hreflang="en">IPL 2020: Predicting MVPs from each franchise</a>

<h2>Watch - Mitchell Starc dismisses Jason Roy and Eoin Morgan:</h2>

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A nightmare start. 
 
Scorecard/Clips: <a href="https://t.co/m1COueGfgA">https://t.co/m1COueGfgA</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ENGvAUS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ENGvAUS</a> <a href="https://t.co/81HGVQH6ig">pic.twitter.com/81HGVQH6ig</a>
— England Cricket (@englandcricket) <a href="https://twitter.com/englandcricket/status/1306202914835386368?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 16, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Mitchell Starc with 2 wickets in the first two balls of the day 🙄🙄 
"Come on England" 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿🏏<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ENGvAUS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ENGvAUS</a> <a href="https://t.co/myHtbYdiHe">pic.twitter.com/myHtbYdiHe</a>
— Toby Phillips (@TobyPhi39674579) <a href="https://twitter.com/TobyPhi39674579/status/1306204176230342659?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 16, 2020</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Both England and Australia are looking to seal the series in the decider on Wednesday with the series firmly locked at 1-1. The ongoing ODI match between England and Australia is the last international match of the English summer as the host look to end it unbeaten.&nbsp;

England have hosted the West Indies, Pakistan, Ireland and England, and are yet to lose a series since the restart. However, with Australia getting a solid start, the visitors would be upbeat about their chances of clinching the series.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2020-delhi-capitals-can-become-champions-this-time-reckons-axar-patel-327746" hreflang="en">IPL 2020: Delhi Capitals can become champions this time, reckons Axar Patel</a>

<h2>England vs Australia 3rd ODI – Playing XIs:</h2>

Australia (Playing XI): David Warner, Aaron Finch(c), Marcus Stoinis, Marnus Labuschagne, Mitchell Marsh, Alex Carey(w), Glenn Maxwell, Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood, Adam Zampa

England (Playing XI): Jason Roy, Jonny Bairstow, Joe Root, Eoin Morgan(c), Jos Buttler(w), Sam Billings, Chris Woakes, Tom Curran, Adil Rashid, Jofra Archer, Mark Wood

<h2>Here’s what the captains said at toss:</h2>

Aaron Finch - We would have batted first as well. With the lights on, it tends to skid on. Looks a pretty dry wicket, need to bowl well in the first 10 hours. We are playing with the same team. He (Smith) had a long net but didn't feel hundred percent after that blow, so he's going to miss again. We had our chances, but we let them get away. We knew it was going to be a difficult chase, but we need to keep learning and hopefully we win today. We stuck with our skills for most part of the first innings, but we failed to execute in the final overs, they have a strong batting line up.

Eoin Morgan - We are gonna bat first. Think it's a good wicket with a short boundary on one side, hopefully we can capitalize on it. We have made one change - Wood comes in for Sam Curran. He's extremely talented and a versatile all-rounder. We are going in with pace today. We need to grow and learn going forward. Playing against a really strong Australian side. We gained a lot of confidence with the bowling group winning us the last game. Thank all the teams who came here (over the last three months) - West Indies, Pakistan, Ireland and Australia. The ECB have done an exceptional job in getting these games smoothly in these circumstances.

Mitchell Starc on Wednesday breathed fire as he took two wickets from the very first two deliveries of the first over to dismiss English opener Jason Roy and Joe Root in the third ODI between England and Australia at the Emirates Old Trafford in Manchester.

Mitchell Starc on Wednesday breathed fire as he took two wickets from the very first two deliveries of the first over to dismiss English opener Jason Roy and Joe Root in the third ODI between England and Australia at the Emirates Old Trafford in Manchester. While the first delivery by Starc was way outside the off-stump, Roy went hard for the drive only to send it straight to the hands of Glenn Maxwell standing at point. Root may have thought to steady the rocky start but England’s Test captain was caught plumb by Starc in the second delivery as the southpaw bagged back-to-back wickets to leave England 0/2. However, captain Eoin Morgan denied him the hat-trick. IN PICS | IPL 2020: Predicting MVPs from each franchise Watch - Mitchell Starc dismisses Jason Roy and Eoin Morgan: A nightmare start. Scorecard/Clips: https://t.co/m1COueGfgA#ENGvAUS pic.twitter.com/81HGVQH6ig — England Cricket (@englandcricket) September 16, 2020 × Mitchell Starc with 2 wickets in the first two balls of the day 🙄🙄 "Come on England" 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿🏏#ENGvAUS pic.twitter.com/myHtbYdiHe — Toby Phillips (@TobyPhi39674579) September 16, 2020 × Both England and Australia are looking to seal the series in the decider on Wednesday with the series firmly locked at 1-1. The ongoing ODI match between England and Australia is the last international match of the English summer as the host look to end it unbeaten. England have hosted the West Indies, Pakistan, Ireland and England, and are yet to lose a series since the restart. However, with Australia getting a solid start, the visitors would be upbeat about their chances of clinching the series. ALSO READ: IPL 2020: Delhi Capitals can become champions this time, reckons Axar Patel England vs Australia 3rd ODI – Playing XIs: Australia (Playing XI): David Warner, Aaron Finch(c), Marcus Stoinis, Marnus Labuschagne, Mitchell Marsh, Alex Carey(w), Glenn Maxwell, Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood, Adam Zampa England (Playing XI): Jason Roy, Jonny Bairstow, Joe Root, Eoin Morgan(c), Jos Buttler(w), Sam Billings, Chris Woakes, Tom Curran, Adil Rashid, Jofra Archer, Mark Wood Here’s what the captains said at toss: Aaron Finch - We would have batted first as well. With the lights on, it tends to skid on. Looks a pretty dry wicket, need to bowl well in the first 10 hours. We are playing with the same team. He (Smith) had a long net but didn't feel hundred percent after that blow, so he's going to miss again. We had our chances, but we let them get away. We knew it was going to be a difficult chase, but we need to keep learning and hopefully we win today. We stuck with our skills for most part of the first innings, but we failed to execute in the final overs, they have a strong batting line up. Eoin Morgan - We are gonna bat first. Think it's a good wicket with a short boundary on one side, hopefully we can capitalize on it. We have made one change - Wood comes in for Sam Curran. He's extremely talented and a versatile all-rounder. We are going in with pace today. We need to grow and learn going forward. Playing against a really strong Australian side. We gained a lot of confidence with the bowling group winning us the last game. Thank all the teams who came here (over the last three months) - West Indies, Pakistan, Ireland and Australia. The ECB have done an exceptional job in getting these games smoothly in these circumstances.

Watch: Mitchell Starc rattles England with successive dismissal of Jason Roy, Joe Root

Mitchell Starc remains wary of injuries from bowling too fast but the Australia paceman hopes to push the 160 km per hour mark in the coming home summer after adding five kg to his frame during a long off-season.

The left-armer is one of only a handful of bowlers to have recorded a delivery over that mark, sending down a sizzling 160.4 kph yorker during the second test against New Zealand at the WACA in 2015.

Starc broke down early in the next match at Adelaide Oval, the inaugural day-night test match, with a stress fracture.

He also strained a pectoral muscle last year after cranking up the pace against Sri Lanka in Canberra.

However, feeling refreshed and stronger from the long break since COVID-19 put a halt to cricket in March, Starc hopes he might be able to return to top speed.

"It would be nice but at the same time the two occasions I've been up around that (160 kph) mark I've snapped my foot," he said in comments published by Cricket Australia's website.

“Hopefully that’s not the case but when everything is going well, that rhythm is happening and conditions suit, then I can get that speed gun up.

“Perhaps that extra time in the gym and extra time off I might be able to push the limits again.”

Starc’s next international assignment is expected to be a white-ball tour of England slated for September, with India to tour later in the year amid strict biosecurity arrangements.

Starc tweaked his action with the help of New South Wales assistant coach Andre Adams last year and bowled with pace and control to take 29 wickets in five tests against Pakistan and New Zealand in the last home summer.

“I still want to bowl fast and I’m not going to compromise that but I had to find a way that I wasn’t expensive at the same time,” he said.

“I think that little tweak in the action has helped that.”

Mitchell Starc remains wary of injuries from bowling too fast but the Australia paceman hopes to push the 160 km per hour mark in the coming home summer after adding five kg to his frame during a long off-season.

Mitchell Starc remains wary of injuries from bowling too fast but the Australia paceman hopes to push the 160 km per hour mark in the coming home summer after adding five kg to his frame during a long off-season. The left-armer is one of only a handful of bowlers to have recorded a delivery over that mark, sending down a sizzling 160.4 kph yorker during the second test against New Zealand at the WACA in 2015. Starc broke down early in the next match at Adelaide Oval, the inaugural day-night test match, with a stress fracture. He also strained a pectoral muscle last year after cranking up the pace against Sri Lanka in Canberra. However, feeling refreshed and stronger from the long break since COVID-19 put a halt to cricket in March, Starc hopes he might be able to return to top speed. "It would be nice but at the same time the two occasions I've been up around that (160 kph) mark I've snapped my foot," he said in comments published by Cricket Australia's website. “Hopefully that’s not the case but when everything is going well, that rhythm is happening and conditions suit, then I can get that speed gun up. “Perhaps that extra time in the gym and extra time off I might be able to push the limits again.” Starc’s next international assignment is expected to be a white-ball tour of England slated for September, with India to tour later in the year amid strict biosecurity arrangements. Starc tweaked his action with the help of New South Wales assistant coach Andre Adams last year and bowled with pace and control to take 29 wickets in five tests against Pakistan and New Zealand in the last home summer. “I still want to bowl fast and I’m not going to compromise that but I had to find a way that I wasn’t expensive at the same time,” he said. “I think that little tweak in the action has helped that.”

Bulked-up Mitchell Starc hopes to test 160kph mark

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashes-2019-marnus-labuschagne-stars-as-australia-draw-second-test-244005">Marnus Labuschagne</a> hit a double century as Australia amassed a huge 454 first innings against a weary New Zealand in the third <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-labuschagne-leads-as-australia-take-charge-in-sydney-271812">Sydney Test</a> on Saturday.

Labuschagne reached his highest Test score of 215 as the Australians were dismissed just before tea on the second day.&nbsp;

The rock-solid number three sweated on 199 for 20 minutes before he thick edged <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/slvnz-watling-colin-de-grandhomme-put-new-zealand-ahead-in-second-test-245565">Colin de Grandhomme</a> through the vacant slips to the ropes to bring up his double ton.

The milestone came off 363 balls with 19 fours and a six and eclipsed his previous Test record of 185 against Pakistan in Brisbane last November.

Labuschagne was Test cricket's leading run-getter last year with 1,104 runs and is carrying on where he left off in 2019.

The Kiwis finally got him out when Labuschagne was caught and bowled by leg-spinner Todd Astle.

Skipper <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tim-paine-takes-a-dig-at-virat-kohli-who-are-slated-to-play-test-series-next-year-264214">Tim Paine</a> provided support for Labuschagne to reach his double century before he was bowled between his bat and pad by de Grandhomme for 35.

Paine faced 92 balls and shared in a 79-run stand with Labuschagne to take Australia beyond 400.

Wickets fell quickly just before tea with James Pattinson bowled by Neil Wagner for two, Pat Cummins caught off Astle's bowling for eight and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ricky-ponting-says-mitchell-starc-needs-to-do-something-special-to-play-first-test-against-pak-262553">Mitchell Starc</a> hitting a breezy 22 off 21 balls before he was bowled by Wagner, who finished with three for 66.

The hosts lost two wickets on the second morning of the Test.

Matthew Wade was out in the day's first over, bowled off-stump while attempting to sweep off-spinner, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-nz-spinner-somerville-replaces-injured-boult-in-sydney-test-270920">Will Somerville</a>, for no addition to his overnight score of 22.

Melbourne Test centurion Travis Head fell to Matt Henry, cutting too close to his body and snicking to wicketkeeper <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/galle-test-bj-watling-puts-new-zealand-in-strong-position-243481">BJ Watling</a>.

The Kiwi bowlers had strangled his scoring shots and his 10 runs came off 42 balls.

Henry was bowling despite fracturing his left thumb on Friday. He had the injury strapped and placed in a splint to continue on playing.

The Sydney Test is being played against the backdrop of one of Australia's most devastating bushfire seasons with at least 20 people losing their lives in blazes raging across the country, including on the outskirts of Sydney.

Play will be suspended in the match at the umpire's discretion, should smoke significantly affect air quality or visibility, but the sky above the ground has remained clear so far.&nbsp;

Marnus Labuschagne hit a double century as Australia amassed a huge 454 first innings against a weary New Zealand in the third Sydney Test on Saturday. Labuschagne reached his highest Test score of 215 as the Australians were dismissed just before tea on the second day.

Marnus Labuschagne hit a double century as Australia amassed a huge 454 first innings against a weary New Zealand in the third Sydney Test on Saturday. Labuschagne reached his highest Test score of 215 as the Australians were dismissed just before tea on the second day. The rock-solid number three sweated on 199 for 20 minutes before he thick edged Colin de Grandhomme through the vacant slips to the ropes to bring up his double ton. The milestone came off 363 balls with 19 fours and a six and eclipsed his previous Test record of 185 against Pakistan in Brisbane last November. Labuschagne was Test cricket's leading run-getter last year with 1,104 runs and is carrying on where he left off in 2019. The Kiwis finally got him out when Labuschagne was caught and bowled by leg-spinner Todd Astle. Skipper Tim Paine provided support for Labuschagne to reach his double century before he was bowled between his bat and pad by de Grandhomme for 35. Paine faced 92 balls and shared in a 79-run stand with Labuschagne to take Australia beyond 400. Wickets fell quickly just before tea with James Pattinson bowled by Neil Wagner for two, Pat Cummins caught off Astle's bowling for eight and Mitchell Starc hitting a breezy 22 off 21 balls before he was bowled by Wagner, who finished with three for 66. The hosts lost two wickets on the second morning of the Test. Matthew Wade was out in the day's first over, bowled off-stump while attempting to sweep off-spinner, Will Somerville, for no addition to his overnight score of 22. Melbourne Test centurion Travis Head fell to Matt Henry, cutting too close to his body and snicking to wicketkeeper BJ Watling. The Kiwi bowlers had strangled his scoring shots and his 10 runs came off 42 balls. Henry was bowling despite fracturing his left thumb on Friday. He had the injury strapped and placed in a splint to continue on playing. The Sydney Test is being played against the backdrop of one of Australia's most devastating bushfire seasons with at least 20 people losing their lives in blazes raging across the country, including on the outskirts of Sydney. Play will be suspended in the match at the umpire's discretion, should smoke significantly affect air quality or visibility, but the sky above the ground has remained clear so far.

Aus vs NZ: Marnus Labuschagne hits double ton in Australia's 454

New Zealand has called up off-spinner&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-fast-bowler-ferguson-gets-new-zealand-test-call-262318">Will&nbsp;Somerville</a>&nbsp;to replace&nbsp;injured&nbsp;fast bowler <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-new-zealands-trent-boult-on-track-for-dream-boxing-day-test-against-australia-268852">Trent&nbsp;Boult</a>&nbsp;for the third and final&nbsp;test&nbsp;match against Australia in&nbsp;Sydney&nbsp;that begins on Thursday, the country's cricket board (NZC) said on Monday.

Boult&nbsp;was ruled out of the final&nbsp;test&nbsp;after fracturing his right hand when he was struck on the gloves while facing a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-new-zealand-collapse-to-148-all-out-under-australian-pace-barrage-270701">Mitchell Starc</a> delivery in their 247-run defeat in Melbourne. He did not bat in the second innings.

New Zealand coach <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/new-zealand-boosts-test-security-after-archer-racially-abused-264531">Gary Stead</a> said 35-year-old&nbsp;Somerville, who has played three&nbsp;tests and picked up 14 wickets, was called up instead of another paceman as the conditions at the&nbsp;Sydney&nbsp;Cricket Ground were conducive to spin.

"There's no secret the SCG pitch is one of the more spin-friendly in Australia," Stead said in a statement. "Will offers something different to our two other&nbsp;spinners in the squad with his right arm off-spin and height.

"The fact he's played a lot of cricket in&nbsp;Sydney&nbsp;during his career for New South Wales will also be helpful as we prepare for this final&nbsp;Test."

Australia have already wrapped up a 2-0 victory in the three-match series after winning the first&nbsp;test&nbsp;in Perth by 296 runs.

New Zealand has called up off-spinner Will Somerville to replace injured fast bowler Trent Boult for the third and final test match against Australia in Sydney that begins on Thursday, the country's cricket board (NZC) said on Monday.

New Zealand has called up off-spinner Will Somerville to replace injured fast bowler Trent Boult for the third and final test match against Australia in Sydney that begins on Thursday, the country's cricket board (NZC) said on Monday. Boult was ruled out of the final test after fracturing his right hand when he was struck on the gloves while facing a Mitchell Starc delivery in their 247-run defeat in Melbourne. He did not bat in the second innings. New Zealand coach Gary Stead said 35-year-old Somerville, who has played three tests and picked up 14 wickets, was called up instead of another paceman as the conditions at the Sydney Cricket Ground were conducive to spin. "There's no secret the SCG pitch is one of the more spin-friendly in Australia," Stead said in a statement. "Will offers something different to our two other spinners in the squad with his right arm off-spin and height. "The fact he's played a lot of cricket in Sydney during his career for New South Wales will also be helpful as we prepare for this final Test." Australia have already wrapped up a 2-0 victory in the three-match series after winning the first test in Perth by 296 runs.

New Zealand spinner Somerville replaces injured Boult in Sydney Test

Pacer <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-james-anderson-shreds-ashwins-photo-as-his-reaction-to-mankading-incident-207275">James Anderson</a> on Thursday became the fifth bowler in this decade to take a wicket on the first ball of a Test match.

The pacer achieved the feat in the ongoing first Test match between England and South Africa at the Supersport Park in Centurion.

Anderson had Dena Elgar (0) caught at the hands of the wicket-keeper Jos Buttler on the very first ball of the match.

Before Anderson, Suranga Lakmal (Sri Lanka), Mitchell Starc (Australia) and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/south-african-quick-dale-steyn-retires-from-test-cricket-240928">Dale Steyn</a> (South Africa) were the only ones to take a wicket on the first ball of a match this decade. 
Lakmal has done this twice in this decade (2010 and 2017).

In the match, Anderson also became only the second English cricketer to play 150 Test matches. Overall, he has now become the ninth cricketer to achieve the feat.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sachin-tendulkar-loses-security-cover-aaditya-thackeray-gets-an-upgrade-to-z-270171">Sachin Tendulkar</a>, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rahul-dravid-to-head-of-national-cricket-academy-experts-react-positively-234118">Rahul Dravid</a> (India), Steve Waugh, Ricky Ponting, Allan Border (Australia), Jacques Kallis (South Africa), Shivnarine Chanderpaul (West Indies) and Alastair Cook (England) are the other cricketers who have played more than 150 Test matches.

In the ongoing Test between England and South Africa, the visitors won the toss and opted to bowl first.

England's former skipper Sir <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/alastair-cook-slams-33rd-test-century-7th-against-india-in-farewell-innings-164898">Alastair Cook</a> holds the record for playing most matches for England. He played 161 Tests for the country.

The 37-year-old Anderson is currently the leading wicket-taker for England in the longest format of the game with 575 wickets to his name.

He also finished this decade with the second-highest wickets after taking 535 wickets. He made his debut at the age of 20 for England.

Pacer James Anderson on Thursday became the fifth bowler in this decade to take a wicket on the first ball of a Test match. The pacer achieved the feat in the ongoing first Test match between England and South Africa at the Supersport Park in Centurion.

Pacer James Anderson on Thursday became the fifth bowler in this decade to take a wicket on the first ball of a Test match. The pacer achieved the feat in the ongoing first Test match between England and South Africa at the Supersport Park in Centurion. Anderson had Dena Elgar (0) caught at the hands of the wicket-keeper Jos Buttler on the very first ball of the match. Before Anderson, Suranga Lakmal (Sri Lanka), Mitchell Starc (Australia) and Dale Steyn (South Africa) were the only ones to take a wicket on the first ball of a match this decade. Lakmal has done this twice in this decade (2010 and 2017). In the match, Anderson also became only the second English cricketer to play 150 Test matches. Overall, he has now become the ninth cricketer to achieve the feat. Sachin Tendulkar, Rahul Dravid (India), Steve Waugh, Ricky Ponting, Allan Border (Australia), Jacques Kallis (South Africa), Shivnarine Chanderpaul (West Indies) and Alastair Cook (England) are the other cricketers who have played more than 150 Test matches. In the ongoing Test between England and South Africa, the visitors won the toss and opted to bowl first. England's former skipper Sir Alastair Cook holds the record for playing most matches for England. He played 161 Tests for the country. The 37-year-old Anderson is currently the leading wicket-taker for England in the longest format of the game with 575 wickets to his name. He also finished this decade with the second-highest wickets after taking 535 wickets. He made his debut at the age of 20 for England.

James Anderson becomes fifth bowler in this decade to take wicket on first ball of Test

Queensland quick <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/iplauction-complete-players-list-and-their-base-price-30869">Michael&nbsp;Neser</a>&nbsp;looks set to make his test&nbsp;debut&nbsp;against New Zealand on Thursday with Australia considering an unconventional&nbsp;five-man attack for the Boxing Day Test at the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/rain-fails-to-dampen-spirits-as-indian-fans-flock-melbourne-cricket-ground-for-second-t20-178922">Melbourne&nbsp;Cricket&nbsp;Ground</a> (MCG).

The hosts, who can clinch the three-match series with a second successive victory, are wary of the surface at MCG where&nbsp;bowlers had to really toil for any success in recent times.

They will unveil their playing XI on Thursday morning but captain Tim Paine suggested playing a fifth specialist&nbsp;bowler, a&nbsp;ploy&nbsp;they last employed in 2013 in Sydney against Sri Lanka.

"Looking at the wicket in the last two or three Boxing Day test matches, it's been very hard to take 20 wickets," Paine told reporters on Wednesday.

"Our batting team has been scoring a lot of runs so if we were to go one more&nbsp;bowler, we would be comfortable they could do the job.

"The&nbsp;bowlers we would be bringing in an all bat so while we're taking a batter out, we're probably lengthening our line-up."

Travis Head could be sacrificed to accommodate&nbsp;Neser&nbsp;while <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/james-pattinson-banned-for-first-test-against-pakistan-for-personal-abuse-262662">James Pattinson</a>, replacing the injured Josh Hazlewood, will join the pace attack which also features Pat Cummins and Mitchell Starc. Nathan Lyon is their lone specialist spinner.

Earlier this month, a Sheffield Shield match at the MCG was abandoned after several batsmen sustained blows to the body on a dangerous pitch.

New Zealand have confirmed two changes with Tom Blundell shoehorned into the makeshift opener's role replacing the off-color Jeet Raval, and quick Trent Boult returning from a rib muscle injury.

"It's a brilliant opportunity. I guess there's a sense of romance about being involved in the Boxing Day Test," skipper Kane Williamson said.

"The guys have all grown up watching whoever's been involved so it's quite cool to be part of it."

"He's a positive player and a smart&nbsp;cricketer so it's just trying to adapt to the conditions," Williamson said of Blundell who will be playing his first test in two years.

With 10 days to recover from the shellacking in the day-night test in Perth, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nzvsl-new-zealand-thrash-sri-lanka-to-level-series-1-1-245853">New Zealand </a>are confident of doing better with the red ball.

"Perth was tough and Australia is very good and tactically sound," Williamson said.

"It's important we learn from some bits of Perth but turn our focus to Melbourne and changing conditions and perhaps not be too reactive to that performance."

Queensland quick Michael Neser looks set to make his test debut against New Zealand on Thursday with Australia considering an unconventional five-man attack for the Boxing Day Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG).

Queensland quick Michael Neser looks set to make his test debut against New Zealand on Thursday with Australia considering an unconventional five-man attack for the Boxing Day Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). The hosts, who can clinch the three-match series with a second successive victory, are wary of the surface at MCG where bowlers had to really toil for any success in recent times. They will unveil their playing XI on Thursday morning but captain Tim Paine suggested playing a fifth specialist bowler, a ploy they last employed in 2013 in Sydney against Sri Lanka. "Looking at the wicket in the last two or three Boxing Day test matches, it's been very hard to take 20 wickets," Paine told reporters on Wednesday. "Our batting team has been scoring a lot of runs so if we were to go one more bowler, we would be comfortable they could do the job. "The bowlers we would be bringing in an all bat so while we're taking a batter out, we're probably lengthening our line-up." Travis Head could be sacrificed to accommodate Neser while James Pattinson, replacing the injured Josh Hazlewood, will join the pace attack which also features Pat Cummins and Mitchell Starc. Nathan Lyon is their lone specialist spinner. Earlier this month, a Sheffield Shield match at the MCG was abandoned after several batsmen sustained blows to the body on a dangerous pitch. New Zealand have confirmed two changes with Tom Blundell shoehorned into the makeshift opener's role replacing the off-color Jeet Raval, and quick Trent Boult returning from a rib muscle injury. "It's a brilliant opportunity. I guess there's a sense of romance about being involved in the Boxing Day Test," skipper Kane Williamson said. "The guys have all grown up watching whoever's been involved so it's quite cool to be part of it." "He's a positive player and a smart cricketer so it's just trying to adapt to the conditions," Williamson said of Blundell who will be playing his first test in two years. With 10 days to recover from the shellacking in the day-night test in Perth, New Zealand are confident of doing better with the red ball. "Perth was tough and Australia is very good and tactically sound," Williamson said. "It's important we learn from some bits of Perth but turn our focus to Melbourne and changing conditions and perhaps not be too reactive to that performance."

Cricket: Neser likely to debut in Australia's five-bowler ploy

Australia fast bowler James Pattinson was suspended on Sunday for player abuse, ruling him out of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-khawaja-harris-dumped-from-australia-test-squad-261975">first Test </a>against Pakistan this week.

The paceman was found guilty of breaching Cricket Australia's code of conduct during Victoria's Sheffield Shield game against Queensland last week.

It was not clear what he said, but the governing body characterised it as "personal abuse of a player while fielding".

Given it was his third breach in the past 18 months, the incident triggered a one-match suspension.

"We have a duty to uphold the highest standards of behaviour and the action taken in this matter demonstrates that," CA's head of integrity and security Sean Carroll said in a statement.

Pattinson's ban opens the door to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ricky-ponting-says-mitchell-starc-needs-to-do-something-special-to-play-first-test-against-pak-262553">Mitchell Starc </a>to play in the Test at Brisbane starting Thursday.

The two were seen to be competing for one bowling slot to partner Josh Hazelwood, Pat Cummins, and Nathan Lyon.

"I made a mistake in the heat of the moment," said Pattinson, who admitted the offence. "Straight away I realised I was in the wrong, and I apologised immediately, both to the opponent and to the umpires.&nbsp;

"I have done the wrong thing and accept the penalty. I'm gutted to miss a Test match, but the standards are there for a reason and the fault is mine."

CA said no replacement will be called up for the Test squad.

Australia fast bowler James Pattinson was suspended on Sunday for player abuse, ruling him out of the first Test against Pakistan this week. The paceman was found guilty of breaching Cricket Australia's code of conduct during Victoria's Sheffield Shield game against Queensland last week.

Australia fast bowler James Pattinson was suspended on Sunday for player abuse, ruling him out of the first Test against Pakistan this week. The paceman was found guilty of breaching Cricket Australia's code of conduct during Victoria's Sheffield Shield game against Queensland last week. It was not clear what he said, but the governing body characterised it as "personal abuse of a player while fielding". Given it was his third breach in the past 18 months, the incident triggered a one-match suspension. "We have a duty to uphold the highest standards of behaviour and the action taken in this matter demonstrates that," CA's head of integrity and security Sean Carroll said in a statement. Pattinson's ban opens the door to Mitchell Starc to play in the Test at Brisbane starting Thursday. The two were seen to be competing for one bowling slot to partner Josh Hazelwood, Pat Cummins, and Nathan Lyon. "I made a mistake in the heat of the moment," said Pattinson, who admitted the offence. "Straight away I realised I was in the wrong, and I apologised immediately, both to the opponent and to the umpires. "I have done the wrong thing and accept the penalty. I'm gutted to miss a Test match, but the standards are there for a reason and the fault is mine." CA said no replacement will be called up for the Test squad.

James Pattinson banned for first Test against Pakistan for 'personal abuse'

Former Australia skipper Ricky Ponting believes that Mitchell Starc will need to do something special to find a place in the playing XI for the upcoming first Test against Pakistan.

In the Ashes, Starc played just one match for the team from Down Under and managed to take six wickets.

"I absolutely love everything that Mitchell Starc brings to the table. But at the same time, they have been reluctant to play him in the last few series. He only played the one Ashes Test match and he did OK in that game," cricket.com.au quoted Ponting as saying. "I think Starc will have to do something pretty special at training to be part of that team," he added.

As Australia are slated to take on Pakistan at the Gabba in Brisbane for the first Test, Ponting brought up James Pattinson's record at the stadium and said it will go in his favour when it comes to selection.

"Pattinson's got a good record in&nbsp;Brisbane as well. That's the other thing that might go in his favour; in a place where the ball does swing a bit, he generally pitches it up and takes it away from the right-handers," he said.&nbsp;

"The reluctance to play Starc in the past has been that he has generally leaked runs," he added.

The 44-year-old Ponting also hailed Josh Hazelwood and Pat Cummins for not leaking runs and being outstanding for a consistent period.

"What we know with Hazlewood and Cummins is they are not leaking runs and they have been outstanding for a long time now. Not only are they getting guys out, but they are making it harder to score as well," Ponting said.

Australia squad for Test Series against Pakistan- Tim Paine (c), Cameron Bancroft, Joe Burns, Pat Cummins (vc), Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head (vc), Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Michael Neser, James Pattinson, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, Matthew Wade, David Warner.

Australia and Pakistan are slated to play two Tests against each other and the second match of the series would be a day-night Test at Adelaide. The first match of the series will be played in Brisbane from November 21-25.&nbsp;

Former Australia skipper Ricky Ponting believes that Mitchell Starc will need to do something special to find a place in the playing XI for the upcoming first Test against Pakistan.

Former Australia skipper Ricky Ponting believes that Mitchell Starc will need to do something special to find a place in the playing XI for the upcoming first Test against Pakistan. In the Ashes, Starc played just one match for the team from Down Under and managed to take six wickets. "I absolutely love everything that Mitchell Starc brings to the table. But at the same time, they have been reluctant to play him in the last few series. He only played the one Ashes Test match and he did OK in that game," cricket.com.au quoted Ponting as saying. "I think Starc will have to do something pretty special at training to be part of that team," he added. As Australia are slated to take on Pakistan at the Gabba in Brisbane for the first Test, Ponting brought up James Pattinson's record at the stadium and said it will go in his favour when it comes to selection. "Pattinson's got a good record in Brisbane as well. That's the other thing that might go in his favour; in a place where the ball does swing a bit, he generally pitches it up and takes it away from the right-handers," he said. "The reluctance to play Starc in the past has been that he has generally leaked runs," he added. The 44-year-old Ponting also hailed Josh Hazelwood and Pat Cummins for not leaking runs and being outstanding for a consistent period. "What we know with Hazlewood and Cummins is they are not leaking runs and they have been outstanding for a long time now. Not only are they getting guys out, but they are making it harder to score as well," Ponting said. Australia squad for Test Series against Pakistan- Tim Paine (c), Cameron Bancroft, Joe Burns, Pat Cummins (vc), Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head (vc), Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Michael Neser, James Pattinson, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, Matthew Wade, David Warner. Australia and Pakistan are slated to play two Tests against each other and the second match of the series would be a day-night Test at Adelaide. The first match of the series will be played in Brisbane from November 21-25.

Ricky Ponting says Mitchell Starc needs to do something 'special' to play first Test against Pak

Australia continued their recent dominance in T20 as they thrashed Pakistan in the third and final match of the series to claim the series 2-0.

It was a completely one-sided affair as the hosts first restricted Pakistan to less than a modest score and then wrapped up the match with more than eight overs to spare. Australia rested star pacer Pat Cummins but his absence was not missed by the hosts as the Australian pacers shared six wickets amongst themselves.&nbsp;

After Australia won the toss, spearhead Mitchell Starc showed his intentions early in the match as he removed captain Babar Azam and Mohammed Rizwan for 6 and 0. Pakistan couldn't recover after losing three wickets for 22 runs and wickets at regular interval meant that Pakistan ended with a score of 106 runs.&nbsp;

Kane Richardson claimed three wickets&nbsp;in the all-round show by Australian bowlers. The star of the bowling, however, was the Man of the Match&nbsp;Sean Abbott who took two wickets in the match but gave away only 14 runs in four overs. Starc also claimed two wickets.

David Warner and skipper Aaron Finch showed no mercy to Pakistani bowlers as Australia finished off the match in 11.5 overs with all the wickets intact. Warner and Finch were not out at 48 and 52 runs respectively.&nbsp;

Steve Smith was awarded Player of the Series award.

In the previous match too, Australia won comfortably by <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-steve-smith-fires-australia-to-victory-over-pakistan-in-t20-match-260229">seven wickets</a>. Steve Smith was the star of that match with an unbeaten score of 80. Australia were also ahead in the first match of the series before it was called off due to rain.&nbsp;

After a clean-sweep&nbsp;against Sri Lanka at home, this is another series win for Australia. Australia are to host T20 world cup next year.&nbsp;

For Pakistan, the only positives of the series were Babar Azam and Iftikhar Ahmed. Azam scored most runs in the series with an average of 57.5 and was followed by Ahmed who remained unbeaten in the tournament and scored 108 runs.&nbsp;

Richardson took most wickets (6) in the series. Ashton Agar and Starc ended with four wickets.

Australia continued their recent dominance in T20 as they thrashed Pakistan in the third and final match of the series to claim the series 2-0. It was a completely one-sided affair as the hosts first restricted Pakistan to less than a modest score and then wrapped up the match with more than eight overs to spare.

Australia continued their recent dominance in T20 as they thrashed Pakistan in the third and final match of the series to claim the series 2-0. It was a completely one-sided affair as the hosts first restricted Pakistan to less than a modest score and then wrapped up the match with more than eight overs to spare. Australia rested star pacer Pat Cummins but his absence was not missed by the hosts as the Australian pacers shared six wickets amongst themselves. After Australia won the toss, spearhead Mitchell Starc showed his intentions early in the match as he removed captain Babar Azam and Mohammed Rizwan for 6 and 0. Pakistan couldn't recover after losing three wickets for 22 runs and wickets at regular interval meant that Pakistan ended with a score of 106 runs. Kane Richardson claimed three wickets in the all-round show by Australian bowlers. The star of the bowling, however, was the Man of the Match Sean Abbott who took two wickets in the match but gave away only 14 runs in four overs. Starc also claimed two wickets. David Warner and skipper Aaron Finch showed no mercy to Pakistani bowlers as Australia finished off the match in 11.5 overs with all the wickets intact. Warner and Finch were not out at 48 and 52 runs respectively. Steve Smith was awarded Player of the Series award. In the previous match too, Australia won comfortably by seven wickets. Steve Smith was the star of that match with an unbeaten score of 80. Australia were also ahead in the first match of the series before it was called off due to rain. After a clean-sweep against Sri Lanka at home, this is another series win for Australia. Australia are to host T20 world cup next year. For Pakistan, the only positives of the series were Babar Azam and Iftikhar Ahmed. Azam scored most runs in the series with an average of 57.5 and was followed by Ahmed who remained unbeaten in the tournament and scored 108 runs. Richardson took most wickets (6) in the series. Ashton Agar and Starc ended with four wickets.

Aus vs Pak, 2nd T20: Australia thrash Pakistan to win series 2-0

Former Australia captain Ricky Ponting feels that Peter Siddle's current way of bowling is 'quite similar' to former pacer Glenn McGrath.&nbsp;

"We know McGrath has a great record at Lord's and loved bowling there. He used to seam the ball back down the slope because he wasn't a big swing bowler. The way Sidds is bowling now is quite similar to the way McGrath bowled in his last few years," cricket.com.au quoted Ponting as saying.&nbsp;

Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood were overlooked and Siddle was included in the playing XI for the first Ashes Test match. Ponting feels that Siddle may retain his spot for the second Ashes Test if it will be suitable wicket for the 34-year-old.&nbsp;

"If it looks like it`ll be a wicket that offers a bit to Sidds, he`d stay in. If it looks like it'll be a flat and dry one, there might be a case to make a change," he said.&nbsp;

Explaining Siddle's selection, Langer said: "The way 'Sidds' played in that practice game and the way he's been bowling and the style of cricket we think we need to beat England."

Australia will face England for the second Ashes Test from August 14 at Lord's.

Former Australia captain Ricky Ponting feels that Peter Siddle's current way of bowling is 'quite similar' to former pacer Glenn McGrath. "We know McGrath has a great record at Lord's and loved bowling there.

Former Australia captain Ricky Ponting feels that Peter Siddle's current way of bowling is 'quite similar' to former pacer Glenn McGrath. "We know McGrath has a great record at Lord's and loved bowling there. He used to seam the ball back down the slope because he wasn't a big swing bowler. The way Sidds is bowling now is quite similar to the way McGrath bowled in his last few years," cricket.com.au quoted Ponting as saying. Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood were overlooked and Siddle was included in the playing XI for the first Ashes Test match. Ponting feels that Siddle may retain his spot for the second Ashes Test if it will be suitable wicket for the 34-year-old. "If it looks like it`ll be a wicket that offers a bit to Sidds, he`d stay in. If it looks like it'll be a flat and dry one, there might be a case to make a change," he said. Explaining Siddle's selection, Langer said: "The way 'Sidds' played in that practice game and the way he's been bowling and the style of cricket we think we need to beat England." Australia will face England for the second Ashes Test from August 14 at Lord's.

Peter Siddle's bowling is quite similar to McGrath's: Ricky Ponting

Australia fast bowler Mitchell Starc set a new record for most wickets at a single World Cup when he had <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/england-thrash-australia-by-eight-wickets-to-reach-world-cup-final-235127">England's </a>Jonny Bairstow lbw in the semi-finals at Edgbaston on Thursday.

That gave the left-arm quick his 27th wicket of the 2019 tournament, breaking the record of 26 for a single edition he had previously shared with retired <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australia-outplayed-by-england-in-world-cup-semi-says-aaron-finch-235138">Australia </a>paceman Glenn McGrath.

But barring a spectacular collapse, Starc's strike looked like being a footnote in the match with England 124 for one in the 18th over chasing a victory target of 224.

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May have been a disappointing end for him, but he was ⚡ in the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CWC19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CWC19</a> on the whole! 
 
With a record-breaking 27 wickets, he's very likely to finish top wicket-taker for the second World Cup in succession! <a href="https://t.co/mGbL7aUI0K">pic.twitter.com/mGbL7aUI0K</a>
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England swept into their first World Cup final for 27 years as the hosts crushed Australia&nbsp;by eight wickets&nbsp;on Thursday to book a clash with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/its-england-vs-new-zealand-in-final-on-july-14-the-world-will-see-a-new-cricket-champion-235146">New Zealand</a> in Sunday's title match.

Australia fast bowler Mitchell Starc set a new record for most wickets at a single World Cup when he had England's Jonny Bairstow lbw in the semi-finals at Edgbaston on Thursday.

Australia fast bowler Mitchell Starc set a new record for most wickets at a single World Cup when he had England's Jonny Bairstow lbw in the semi-finals at Edgbaston on Thursday. That gave the left-arm quick his 27th wicket of the 2019 tournament, breaking the record of 26 for a single edition he had previously shared with retired Australia paceman Glenn McGrath. But barring a spectacular collapse, Starc's strike looked like being a footnote in the match with England 124 for one in the 18th over chasing a victory target of 224. May have been a disappointing end for him, but he was ⚡ in the #CWC19 on the whole! With a record-breaking 27 wickets, he's very likely to finish top wicket-taker for the second World Cup in succession! pic.twitter.com/mGbL7aUI0K — Cricket World Cup (@cricketworldcup) July 12, 2019 × England swept into their first World Cup final for 27 years as the hosts crushed Australia by eight wickets on Thursday to book a clash with New Zealand in Sunday's title match.

Australia's Mitchell Starc sets record for most wickets in World Cup

Australia coach Justin Langer thinks it unlikely that frontline quicks Mitchell Starc and Pat Cummins will be rested at the World Cup even if the defending champions have already qualified for the semi-finals.

Langer's side secured their spot in the last four with a 64-run win over hosts England at Lord's on Tuesday and return to the famous north London ground on Saturday to face neighbours New Zealand in their penultimate round-robin tie.

With the Ashes test series in England to come after the World Cup, <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-i-thrive-on-crowd-booing-i-love-it-says-australias-david-warner-230818&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiN-6XY5YvjAhVEc3AKHTaUA2w4ChAWMAF6BAgPEAI&amp;usg=AOvVaw2UoBSHL1BdMQ1TwX3542EY">Australia </a>might be forgiven for giving the pace duo a rest but Langer said the players would probably not want to put their feet up at any stage of the tournament.

"I would be surprised if either of those guys rest up," Langer told a news conference.

"The challenge is going to be that we have long layoffs now, a bit of a layoff here, then five or six days in Manchester, we have to manage that really well. So I don’t think they will want to rest," Langer said.

Left-armer Starc is the top wicket-taker at the <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-world-cup-semi-final-scenario-pakistan-stay-alive-england-vs-australia-at-lords-key-to-shaping-top-four-230038&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiN-6XY5YvjAhVEc3AKHTaUA2w4ChAWMAN6BAgQEAI&amp;usg=AOvVaw0CkvlpSb3Qm_zBJJtGp8ta">World Cup</a> so far with 19 from seven matches and while Cummins started well with 11 from his first five matches, he drew blanks against Bangladesh and England.

Langer said he was not concerned at all with the 26-year-old's form.

"He hasn't got the wickets in the last two games, but he's still been a huge part of our side," Langer added.

"He's someone who's so reliable that you go to when you either need a wicket or you need some control in a game. He provides so much for the side," he said.

Both pacemen were put into the shade a little on Tuesday, however, when Jason Behrendorff took five for 44 after bowling James Vince through the gate for a duck with the second ball of the England innings.

"To come to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-people-are-waiting-for-us-to-fail-says-englands-jonny-bairstow-231113">England </a>and bowl on the big stage as well as he did, it will be a great confidence boost for him," said Langer, who coached the left-arm seamer at Western Australia.

"I've seen it for a long time ... he is a very good athlete and he's an incredible professional so he will do everything possible to play. And he's a really nice person. To see those sort of people get a reward is really pleasing,"&nbsp;Langer said.

Australia coach Justin Langer thinks it unlikely that frontline quicks Mitchell Starc and Pat Cummins will be rested at the World Cup even if the defending champions have already qualified for the semi-finals.

Australia coach Justin Langer thinks it unlikely that frontline quicks Mitchell Starc and Pat Cummins will be rested at the World Cup even if the defending champions have already qualified for the semi-finals. Langer's side secured their spot in the last four with a 64-run win over hosts England at Lord's on Tuesday and return to the famous north London ground on Saturday to face neighbours New Zealand in their penultimate round-robin tie. With the Ashes test series in England to come after the World Cup, Australia might be forgiven for giving the pace duo a rest but Langer said the players would probably not want to put their feet up at any stage of the tournament. "I would be surprised if either of those guys rest up," Langer told a news conference. "The challenge is going to be that we have long layoffs now, a bit of a layoff here, then five or six days in Manchester, we have to manage that really well. So I don’t think they will want to rest," Langer said. Left-armer Starc is the top wicket-taker at the World Cup so far with 19 from seven matches and while Cummins started well with 11 from his first five matches, he drew blanks against Bangladesh and England. Langer said he was not concerned at all with the 26-year-old's form. "He hasn't got the wickets in the last two games, but he's still been a huge part of our side," Langer added. "He's someone who's so reliable that you go to when you either need a wicket or you need some control in a game. He provides so much for the side," he said. Both pacemen were put into the shade a little on Tuesday, however, when Jason Behrendorff took five for 44 after bowling James Vince through the gate for a duck with the second ball of the England innings. "To come to England and bowl on the big stage as well as he did, it will be a great confidence boost for him," said Langer, who coached the left-arm seamer at Western Australia. "I've seen it for a long time ... he is a very good athlete and he's an incredible professional so he will do everything possible to play. And he's a really nice person. To see those sort of people get a reward is really pleasing," Langer said.

No rest for the pacers even though Australia have qualified, says coach Justin Langer

England fans obviously did not learn when they taunted former Australia legspinner Shane Warne for eating all the pies, with a jibe at fast bowler Mitchell Starc helping fire him up to destroy England at the Cricket World Cup.

Starc took 4-43 as Australia cruised to a 64-run victory against <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/its-not-hugely-disappointing-fate-is-in-our-own-hands-says-eoin-morgan-after-losing-to-australia-230445">England </a>at Lord's on Tuesday to qualify for the semi-finals and leave the hosts' chances of making the last four precarious.

The 29-year-old's wife Alyssa Healy sparked a flurry of interest in Starc's performance after she applauded an England fan for inspiring the tall quick before the match.

"High fives to the English bloke who fired up Mitch with some banter at breaky...onya legend," Healy, the Australian women's team wicketkeeper, wrote on her Twitter feed.

Starc was surprised to be questioned about the breakfast banter after he and fellow seamer Jason Behrendorff took nine wickets between them but he obligingly served up a few details.

"Someone was having a go at my strapping tape and me eating too much and how it was going to affect my bowling," Starc told reporters of a breakfast that included three poached eggs.

"I was just hungry," Starc said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-australia-reach-semis-with-64-run-win-over-arch-rivals-england-230432">Starc </a>told Sydney's Daily Telegraph newspaper that he accepted it was all "good fun".

"I was still half-asleep I think. I still had two hours before we were starting warm-ups," he added.

England's Barmy Army fans routinely taunted Warne about his weight and broke into chants of "Who ate all the pies?" during matches against Australia.

It had little effect as&nbsp;Warne took 195 of his 708 test wickets against England, and recorded his best bowling in an innings of 8-71 in an Ashes test in Brisbane in 1994.

England fans obviously did not learn when they taunted former Australia legspinner Shane Warne for eating all the pies, with a jibe at fast bowler Mitchell Starc helping fire him up to destroy England at the Cricket World Cup.

England fans obviously did not learn when they taunted former Australia legspinner Shane Warne for eating all the pies, with a jibe at fast bowler Mitchell Starc helping fire him up to destroy England at the Cricket World Cup. Starc took 4-43 as Australia cruised to a 64-run victory against England at Lord's on Tuesday to qualify for the semi-finals and leave the hosts' chances of making the last four precarious. The 29-year-old's wife Alyssa Healy sparked a flurry of interest in Starc's performance after she applauded an England fan for inspiring the tall quick before the match. "High fives to the English bloke who fired up Mitch with some banter at breaky...onya legend," Healy, the Australian women's team wicketkeeper, wrote on her Twitter feed. Starc was surprised to be questioned about the breakfast banter after he and fellow seamer Jason Behrendorff took nine wickets between them but he obligingly served up a few details. "Someone was having a go at my strapping tape and me eating too much and how it was going to affect my bowling," Starc told reporters of a breakfast that included three poached eggs. "I was just hungry," Starc said. Starc told Sydney's Daily Telegraph newspaper that he accepted it was all "good fun". "I was still half-asleep I think. I still had two hours before we were starting warm-ups," he added. England's Barmy Army fans routinely taunted Warne about his weight and broke into chants of "Who ate all the pies?" during matches against Australia. It had little effect as Warne took 195 of his 708 test wickets against England, and recorded his best bowling in an innings of 8-71 in an Ashes test in Brisbane in 1994.

World Cup: Breakfast banter inspires Mitchell Starc to demolish England

Australia captain Aaron Finch and pace bowler Mitchell Starc stole the show as the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/live-updates-cricket-world-cup-2019-match-20-sri-lanka-vs-australia-227294">holders eased to an 87-run win over Sri Lanka</a> at the Oval on Saturday.

Finch equalled his career-best one-day international score with a masterful 153 and Steve Smith chipped in with 73 as Australia scored 334-7.

Needing a World Cup record run-chase to claim a shock win, Sri Lanka got off to a flying start thanks to a first-wicket partnership of 115 between captain Dimuth Karunaratne and Kusal Perera.

But Perera departed for 52 and when Karunaratne fell on 97 the game swung back in Australia's direction.

Starc was the catalyst with a fiery spell of three wickets in six balls, Australia eventually dismissing Sri Lanka for 247 thanks in large part to his 4-55 from 10 overs.

Kane Richardson added three wickets of his own as Australia made it four wins from their five group matches after previously beating Afghanistan, the West Indies and Pakistan.

Their lone defeat in the 10-team tournament came against India and their latest victory puts them well on course for a semi-final berth.

Sri Lanka, who lost their last seven wickets for 42 runs, have only one win from their five matches, a disappointing run that includes two washouts.

They face a struggle to reach the semi-finals with only four matches left, a spell that features encounters with title contenders England and India.

Sri Lanka had briefly looked capable of surpassing the World Cup chase set by Ireland, who made 329-7 to beat England in 2011.

<img alt="Match 20" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="cb6a492c-e9b1-4583-97b1-f0761bb59ed0" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/match%2020.jpg" />

Karunaratne and his opening partner Perera blasted 24 from the first two overs and reached their fifty partnership in just the seventh over.

But Starc bowled Perera and Jason Behrendorff dismissed Lahiru Thirimanne for 16 as Australia hit back.

Starc turns the screw

A six from Kusal Mendis in the 31st over signalled Sri Lanka's intent to get cracking.

But crucially Karunaratne stumbled short of his maiden World Cup century when he carelessly flicked Richardson to Glenn Maxwell at backward point.

That left Sri Lanka 186-3 and set the stage for Starc to turn the screw by dismissing Milinda Siriwardana, Thisara Perera and Mendis in quick succession.

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1987 🏆 
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2007 🏆 
2015 🏆 
2019 ❓ <a href="https://t.co/iXq53lqUx1">pic.twitter.com/iXq53lqUx1</a>
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Mendis's mistimed drive off Starc reduced Sri Lanka to 222-7 and shattered their resistance.

Earlier, Finch took the Sri Lanka attack apart with a dazzling display that included 15 fours and five sixes.

He was well-supported by Smith's 73 from 59 balls and the pair put on 173 runs for the third wicket.

Together with opening partner David Warner, Finch took the attack to the Sri Lankans after being put in to bat under cloudy skies in south London.

The pair passed fifty for the opening wicket for the fourth time in five games at the World Cup.

Sri Lanka had no answer to Finch's brutal assault and by the time he departed, caught by Karunaratne off Isuru Udana, he had put Australia in a commanding position.&nbsp;

Maxwell's quick-fire 46 from 25 balls rubbed salt into Sri Lanka's wounds.

Australia captain Aaron Finch and pace bowler Mitchell Starc stole the show as the holders eased to an 87-run win over Sri Lanka at the Oval on Saturday. Finch equalled his career-best one-day international score with a masterful 153 and Steve Smith chipped in with 73 as Australia scored 334-7.

Australia captain Aaron Finch and pace bowler Mitchell Starc stole the show as the holders eased to an 87-run win over Sri Lanka at the Oval on Saturday. Finch equalled his career-best one-day international score with a masterful 153 and Steve Smith chipped in with 73 as Australia scored 334-7. Needing a World Cup record run-chase to claim a shock win, Sri Lanka got off to a flying start thanks to a first-wicket partnership of 115 between captain Dimuth Karunaratne and Kusal Perera. But Perera departed for 52 and when Karunaratne fell on 97 the game swung back in Australia's direction. Starc was the catalyst with a fiery spell of three wickets in six balls, Australia eventually dismissing Sri Lanka for 247 thanks in large part to his 4-55 from 10 overs. Kane Richardson added three wickets of his own as Australia made it four wins from their five group matches after previously beating Afghanistan, the West Indies and Pakistan. Their lone defeat in the 10-team tournament came against India and their latest victory puts them well on course for a semi-final berth. Sri Lanka, who lost their last seven wickets for 42 runs, have only one win from their five matches, a disappointing run that includes two washouts. They face a struggle to reach the semi-finals with only four matches left, a spell that features encounters with title contenders England and India. Sri Lanka had briefly looked capable of surpassing the World Cup chase set by Ireland, who made 329-7 to beat England in 2011. Karunaratne and his opening partner Perera blasted 24 from the first two overs and reached their fifty partnership in just the seventh over. But Starc bowled Perera and Jason Behrendorff dismissed Lahiru Thirimanne for 16 as Australia hit back. Starc turns the screw A six from Kusal Mendis in the 31st over signalled Sri Lanka's intent to get cracking. But crucially Karunaratne stumbled short of his maiden World Cup century when he carelessly flicked Richardson to Glenn Maxwell at backward point. That left Sri Lanka 186-3 and set the stage for Starc to turn the screw by dismissing Milinda Siriwardana, Thisara Perera and Mendis in quick succession. 1987 🏆 1999 🏆 2003 🏆 2007 🏆 2015 🏆 2019 ❓ pic.twitter.com/iXq53lqUx1 — Cricket World Cup (@cricketworldcup) June 15, 2019 × Mendis's mistimed drive off Starc reduced Sri Lanka to 222-7 and shattered their resistance. Earlier, Finch took the Sri Lanka attack apart with a dazzling display that included 15 fours and five sixes. He was well-supported by Smith's 73 from 59 balls and the pair put on 173 runs for the third wicket. Together with opening partner David Warner, Finch took the attack to the Sri Lankans after being put in to bat under cloudy skies in south London. The pair passed fifty for the opening wicket for the fourth time in five games at the World Cup. Sri Lanka had no answer to Finch's brutal assault and by the time he departed, caught by Karunaratne off Isuru Udana, he had put Australia in a commanding position. Maxwell's quick-fire 46 from 25 balls rubbed salt into Sri Lanka's wounds.

World Cup: Aaron Finch and Mitchell Starc guide Australia's 87-run win over Sri Lanka

Australia's knack for grinding out wins despite not playing at their best is helping them build momentum for a strong tilt at the World Cup title, former skipper Allan Border has said.

Defending champions <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-david-warner-stars-in-australias-41-run-win-over-pakistan-226669">Australia beat Pakistan</a> by 41 runs in Taunton on Wednesday to seal their third victory in four games at the tournament, with their only defeat coming against <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-shikhar-dhawan-shines-as-india-beat-holders-australia-by-36-runs-225791">India </a>on Sunday.

A struggling middle order and a lack of support for the main pace duo of Mitchell Starc and Pat Cummins have emerged as Australia's main concerns in the early days of the World Cup, but the team are currently second in the overall standings.

"Australia aren't playing at their best but they are winning matches. That's the way I saw the win over Pakistan," Border wrote in a column for the International Cricket Council.

"In the early stages of the World Cup, you want to be right amongst the pacesetters after four rounds and Australia very much are. They are building nicely and all the teams will feel the total package is still in them. They'll talk about being relentless and consistent... and they can create momentum for some of the big teams they still have to play," Border said.

Border added that Australia should consider using <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-steve-smiths-reaction-when-virat-kohli-stopped-indian-fans-from-booing-him-225897">Steve Smith</a> to shore up their bowling attack and backed the 30-year-old to use his leg-spin to good effect.

"The fifth, and even the fourth, bowling option is looking like a slight concern for them," Border said. "I think they should look at Steve Smith having a bowl, I really do."

"Leg-spin takes wickets and whether it's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/zampa-hand-warmers-row-finch-defends-spinner-over-ball-tampering-allegation-225853">Adam Zampa</a> coming back in or Smith trying a bit of his spin, that should improve the attack dramatically," Border added.

Here's the&nbsp;complete fixture of Cricket World Cup 2019:

<img alt="ICC World Cup 2019" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="aa536962-32f2-4838-8fec-9a38afd969a9" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/ICC%20World%20Cup%202019%20%281%29_28.jpg" />

Australia next play Sri Lanka at The Oval in London on Saturday.

Australia's knack for grinding out wins despite not playing at their best is helping them build momentum for a strong tilt at the World Cup title, former skipper Allan Border has said.

Australia's knack for grinding out wins despite not playing at their best is helping them build momentum for a strong tilt at the World Cup title, former skipper Allan Border has said. Defending champions Australia beat Pakistan by 41 runs in Taunton on Wednesday to seal their third victory in four games at the tournament, with their only defeat coming against India on Sunday. A struggling middle order and a lack of support for the main pace duo of Mitchell Starc and Pat Cummins have emerged as Australia's main concerns in the early days of the World Cup, but the team are currently second in the overall standings. "Australia aren't playing at their best but they are winning matches. That's the way I saw the win over Pakistan," Border wrote in a column for the International Cricket Council. "In the early stages of the World Cup, you want to be right amongst the pacesetters after four rounds and Australia very much are. They are building nicely and all the teams will feel the total package is still in them. They'll talk about being relentless and consistent... and they can create momentum for some of the big teams they still have to play," Border said. Border added that Australia should consider using Steve Smith to shore up their bowling attack and backed the 30-year-old to use his leg-spin to good effect. "The fifth, and even the fourth, bowling option is looking like a slight concern for them," Border said. "I think they should look at Steve Smith having a bowl, I really do." "Leg-spin takes wickets and whether it's Adam Zampa coming back in or Smith trying a bit of his spin, that should improve the attack dramatically," Border added. Here's the complete fixture of Cricket World Cup 2019: Australia next play Sri Lanka at The Oval in London on Saturday.

World Cup: Allan Border backs defending champs Australia to keep building momentum

Emphasising on the importance of dot balls in limited overs cricket, Australia pacer Pat Cummins is delighted that the hard work he has put in to become accurate is starting to pay off.

Cummins is increasingly looking like the workhorse of this Australian team, plugging away with the wickets while others hog the headlines.

The 26-year-old looked in great rhythm against Pakistan, taking 3 for 33 to derail their chase.

The right-arm pacer has bowled the most number of dot balls in the ongoing World Cup and the two bowlers that follow him are also from Australia -- Mitchell Starc and Nathan Coulter-Nile.

"That's the big improvement in my game in the last couple of years, the ability to hold a length and make it difficult to get runs," Cummins said after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/live-updates-cricket-world-cup-2019-match-17-australia-vs-pakistan-226457">Australia's 41-run win against Pakistan</a> on Wednesday.

"If you give away easy singles then 300 becomes quite an achievable score. Cutting out the singles is huge, it means if you give away a boundary it might not be that big over of ten or 11, it may just be a five or a six," Cummins added.

After they were set 308 for win, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-david-warner-stars-in-australias-41-run-win-over-pakistan-226669">Pakistan </a>scored steadily but Australia held their nerve and took wickets at regular intervals.

An eighth-wicket stand between Sarfaraz and Wahab Riaz, who scored 45 from just 39 balls, made it nervy for the defending champions until the last three wickets fell for just two runs - securing a third victory at the World Cup.

"It goes to show that everyone can bat these days. It was a bit closer than we would have liked, so it was good to get those couple of wickets and finish it off. We gave them a bit too much width and suddenly they were back in the game, it's a good lesson to learn," Cummins said.

Cummins and his strike partner Starc have 18 wickets between them in the tournament while the rest of the team have a combined 12.

Australia set a target of 307 on the back of a 146-run opening partnership between Warner (107) and Finch (82).

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/this-century-means-a-lot-as-a-batsman-david-warner-226679">Warner </a>scored his first-century post his one-year international ban for ball-tampering.

"We were so pumped for him, he was really open and honest after the Oval game. He was playing more timid than normal but we saw his mindset change from the start here,'' he said.

"I think if you look over the transition of his career, he's become more measured in his approach. His energy out in the middle is still an example, the way you see him sprinting hard for singles and bouncing down the wicket. He looks really sharp in this tournament," Cummins said.

Emphasising on the importance of dot balls in limited overs cricket, Australia pacer Pat Cummins is delighted that the hard work he has put in to become accurate is starting to pay off.

Emphasising on the importance of dot balls in limited overs cricket, Australia pacer Pat Cummins is delighted that the hard work he has put in to become accurate is starting to pay off. Cummins is increasingly looking like the workhorse of this Australian team, plugging away with the wickets while others hog the headlines. The 26-year-old looked in great rhythm against Pakistan, taking 3 for 33 to derail their chase. The right-arm pacer has bowled the most number of dot balls in the ongoing World Cup and the two bowlers that follow him are also from Australia -- Mitchell Starc and Nathan Coulter-Nile. "That's the big improvement in my game in the last couple of years, the ability to hold a length and make it difficult to get runs," Cummins said after Australia's 41-run win against Pakistan on Wednesday. "If you give away easy singles then 300 becomes quite an achievable score. Cutting out the singles is huge, it means if you give away a boundary it might not be that big over of ten or 11, it may just be a five or a six," Cummins added. After they were set 308 for win, Pakistan scored steadily but Australia held their nerve and took wickets at regular intervals. An eighth-wicket stand between Sarfaraz and Wahab Riaz, who scored 45 from just 39 balls, made it nervy for the defending champions until the last three wickets fell for just two runs - securing a third victory at the World Cup. "It goes to show that everyone can bat these days. It was a bit closer than we would have liked, so it was good to get those couple of wickets and finish it off. We gave them a bit too much width and suddenly they were back in the game, it's a good lesson to learn," Cummins said. Cummins and his strike partner Starc have 18 wickets between them in the tournament while the rest of the team have a combined 12. Australia set a target of 307 on the back of a 146-run opening partnership between Warner (107) and Finch (82). Warner scored his first-century post his one-year international ban for ball-tampering. "We were so pumped for him, he was really open and honest after the Oval game. He was playing more timid than normal but we saw his mindset change from the start here,'' he said. "I think if you look over the transition of his career, he's become more measured in his approach. His energy out in the middle is still an example, the way you see him sprinting hard for singles and bouncing down the wicket. He looks really sharp in this tournament," Cummins said.

World Cup: Pat Cummins' silent workhorse in Australia's squad, while others hog limelight

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