<p>Australia skipper Pat Cummins 'expects' opening batsman David Warner to make the cut for the fourth Ashes Test, starting Wednesday, July 19 in Manchester. The statement from Cummins comes amid Warner's dwindling form since 2021, his struggles against Stuart Broad and Australia's temptation to play both Cameron Green and Mitchell Marsh.</p>

<p>Warner, who has averaged just above 28 in 23 Tests since 2021, has been dismissed thrice by Broad in three Ashes Tests so far. Cummins, however, said that Warner's been going well and 'he imagines' the left-hander opening the batting at Old Trafford.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashes-2023-pat-cummins-old-fashioned-captain-ben-stokes-tries-to-ricky-ponting-617086">'Pat Cummins old fashioned captain, Ben Stokes tries to...'- Ricky Ponting</a></p>

<p>"We'll chat about it, but I imagine it will stay the same," Cummins said of the opening pairing. "I think [Warner] has been going really well. I thought at Lord's, he was really impressive. Last week, like many of us, he probably didn't contribute as much as he would have liked with the bat."</p>

<p>"He's been out there over the last couple of days putting in a lot of work, but I think this tour he has shown a lot of good signs and hasn't quite kicked on to make that big score. Some of those innings he's played under really tough circumstances has made it easy for [Steven] Smith to come in and score runs, or the like."</p>

<p>Australia, however, have a selection dilemma at their disposal after Marsh scored a century and took crucial wickets in third Test as Green's replacement. The only condition where both the all-rounders can play is spinner Todd Murphy going out, given Warner retains his place. Keeping Murphy out would mean that Australia will have an all-pace attack with Travis Head as back up.</p>

<p>"Every situation is different," Cummins said of the final playing XI. "We've played games with one quick; we've played some games with heaps of quicks. It's all really conditions based. As I said last week about Toddy, I would have loved to bowl him a bit more but there wasn't a heap of overs in the game, the ball seemed to swing and seam a little bit, so that's certainly something to weigh up this week."</p>

<p>Australia currently lead the five-Test series 2-1.</p>

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Australia skipper Pat Cummins 'expects' opening batsman David Warner to make the cut for the fourth Ashes Test, starting Wednesday, July 19 in Manchester. The statement from Cummins comes amid Warner's dwindling form since 2021, his struggles against Stuart Broad and Australia's temptation to play both Cameron Green and Mitchell Marsh.

Australia skipper Pat Cummins 'expects' opening batsman David Warner to make the cut for the fourth Ashes Test, starting Wednesday, July 19 in Manchester. The statement from Cummins comes amid Warner's dwindling form since 2021, his struggles against Stuart Broad and Australia's temptation to play both Cameron Green and Mitchell Marsh. Warner, who has averaged just above 28 in 23 Tests since 2021, has been dismissed thrice by Broad in three Ashes Tests so far. Cummins, however, said that Warner's been going well and 'he imagines' the left-hander opening the batting at Old Trafford. Also Read: 'Pat Cummins old fashioned captain, Ben Stokes tries to...'- Ricky Ponting "We'll chat about it, but I imagine it will stay the same," Cummins said of the opening pairing. "I think [Warner] has been going really well. I thought at Lord's, he was really impressive. Last week, like many of us, he probably didn't contribute as much as he would have liked with the bat." "He's been out there over the last couple of days putting in a lot of work, but I think this tour he has shown a lot of good signs and hasn't quite kicked on to make that big score. Some of those innings he's played under really tough circumstances has made it easy for [Steven] Smith to come in and score runs, or the like." Australia, however, have a selection dilemma at their disposal after Marsh scored a century and took crucial wickets in third Test as Green's replacement. The only condition where both the all-rounders can play is spinner Todd Murphy going out, given Warner retains his place. Keeping Murphy out would mean that Australia will have an all-pace attack with Travis Head as back up. "Every situation is different," Cummins said of the final playing XI. "We've played games with one quick; we've played some games with heaps of quicks. It's all really conditions based. As I said last week about Toddy, I would have loved to bowl him a bit more but there wasn't a heap of overs in the game, the ball seemed to swing and seam a little bit, so that's certainly something to weigh up this week." Australia currently lead the five-Test series 2-1. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Ashes 2023: Pat Cummins backs struggling David Warner to open in fourth Test at Old Trafford

<p>The ongoing Ashes 2023 has been a riveting series. After the first three Tests, Australia lead England 2-1 with the fourth and penultimate Test to kick off on July 19 at the Old Trafford, Manchester. Ahead of the next Test match, Pat Cummins &amp; Co. have some tough calls to make while deciding their playing XI.</p>

<p>After a loss in the third Test at Leeds, Headingley, Australia still lead the five-match series but will have to decide if they need to continue with a struggling David Warner at the top and who among Cameron Green and Mitchell Marsh will make the cut. Green started the series for Australia but Marsh replaced him after the former's hamstring injury in the third Test.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While Australia lost the Headingley encounter by three wickets, Marsh was their top-performer. He returned with a magnificent 118 and 28 along with claiming two scalps. Green, on the other hand, has three wickets and&nbsp;but has only managed&nbsp;38, 28, 0 and 18 with the bat. Ahead of the penultimate encounter, former Aussie captain Ricky Ponting made his choice and feels Marsh will be picked ahead of Green.</p>

<p>Speaking on the latest episode of ICC Review, Ponting opined, "I know he's a highly talented youngster (Green), but with the national series on the line and what Mitch Marsh provided last game and with two top-order wickets as well, let's not forget about the wickets that he got. I think they might keep him in."</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashes-2023-mcc-members-suspended-over-long-room-fiasco-likely-to-face-lifetime-ban-report-615149">Ashes 2023: MCC members, suspended over Long Room fiasco, likely to face lifetime ban - Report</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>Ponting backs&nbsp;David Warner</strong></h2>

<p>Meanwhile, Punter also opened up on David Warner's struggles in Ashes 2023. He was dismissed by Stuart Broad for the 17th time in the format during the second innings of the third Test. He has returned with scores of 9, 36, 66, 25, 4 and 1 in the series.</p>

<p>"When someone's got you out 17 times, it does become as much a mental or probably more of a mental battle than it does a technical battle. But just thinking about the series, I'd be inclined to stick with David Warner," Ponting stated.</p>

<p>"With the lack of tour games for Australia, it doesn't just hinder the guys that are out of form, but it actually hinders the other guys that are trying to push for a place into the side because they're just batting in the nets every day and they're not getting any match practice either," he&nbsp;added.<br />
&nbsp;</p>


The ongoing Ashes 2023 has been a riveting series. After the first three Tests, Australia lead England 2-1 with the fourth and penultimate Test to kick off on July 19 at the Old Trafford, Manchester.

The ongoing Ashes 2023 has been a riveting series. After the first three Tests, Australia lead England 2-1 with the fourth and penultimate Test to kick off on July 19 at the Old Trafford, Manchester. Ahead of the next Test match, Pat Cummins & Co. have some tough calls to make while deciding their playing XI. After a loss in the third Test at Leeds, Headingley, Australia still lead the five-match series but will have to decide if they need to continue with a struggling David Warner at the top and who among Cameron Green and Mitchell Marsh will make the cut. Green started the series for Australia but Marsh replaced him after the former's hamstring injury in the third Test. While Australia lost the Headingley encounter by three wickets, Marsh was their top-performer. He returned with a magnificent 118 and 28 along with claiming two scalps. Green, on the other hand, has three wickets and but has only managed 38, 28, 0 and 18 with the bat. Ahead of the penultimate encounter, former Aussie captain Ricky Ponting made his choice and feels Marsh will be picked ahead of Green. Speaking on the latest episode of ICC Review, Ponting opined, "I know he's a highly talented youngster (Green), but with the national series on the line and what Mitch Marsh provided last game and with two top-order wickets as well, let's not forget about the wickets that he got. I think they might keep him in." Also Read: Ashes 2023: MCC members, suspended over Long Room fiasco, likely to face lifetime ban - Report Ponting backs David Warner Meanwhile, Punter also opened up on David Warner's struggles in Ashes 2023. He was dismissed by Stuart Broad for the 17th time in the format during the second innings of the third Test. He has returned with scores of 9, 36, 66, 25, 4 and 1 in the series. "When someone's got you out 17 times, it does become as much a mental or probably more of a mental battle than it does a technical battle. But just thinking about the series, I'd be inclined to stick with David Warner," Ponting stated. "With the lack of tour games for Australia, it doesn't just hinder the guys that are out of form, but it actually hinders the other guys that are trying to push for a place into the side because they're just batting in the nets every day and they're not getting any match practice either," he added.

Ashes, 4th Test: Green or Marsh? Ponting names Aussie all-rounder likely to feature in the XI

<p>Veteran Australian star Mitchell Starc has underlined his mantra for success after returning to the side in the ongoing Ashes as he tries to help his side retain the holy grail. Starc, rested for the first Ashes Test in Edgbaston, was brought back into the side for the second and third contest and has since scalped 13 wickets. The Aussies will look to seal the Ashes yet again as they currently lead the five-match series 2-1 with two matches still to go.</p>

<h2><strong>Starc reveals success mantra</strong></h2>

<p>"I wasn't going to change that this time, and if that meant I didn't play, so be it. I was going to stick to my strengths and what I bring to the attack rather than trying to be someone like Josh [Hazlewood] or someone like Pat [Cummins] because that's not going to complement the group,” Starc said as quoted by Espncricinfo.</p>

<p>Despite missing the opening Test, Starc is only three wickets behind leading wicket-taker Stuart Broad (16) in the Ashes 2023. The 33-year-old’s tally has been only bettered by Broad and his own skipper Pat Cummins (15) while they have played one match more than Starc. His impact was sensible immediately after returning to the squad as he scalped three wickets in both innings of the Lord’s Test.</p>

<p>"There was a big [focus] on economy rates last time which plenty of guys spoke about throughout the tour, and we all bought into that. And that was something that worked really [well] for us to retain the Ashes then," Starc said.</p>

<p>"[But] it affected my approach certainly going back to Australia and losing some airspeed. It took away from some of my strengths and some of the role that I play in our attack,” added Starc.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/asia-cup-2023-india-not-to-travel-to-pakistan-confirms-ipl-chairman-arun-dhumal-to-play-arch-rivals-in-sl-614572">Asia Cup 2023: India NOT to travel to Pakistan, confirms IPL chairman Arun Dhumal</a></p>

<h2><strong>Next Test in Manchester</strong></h2>

<p>Australia will take on England in the fourth Ashes Test, which will start on Wednesday, July 19 at Old Trafford. England made a remarkable comeback in the Ashes after winning the Headingley Test and have reduced the visitor's lead to 2-1. England won the contest in Leeds by three wickets in another nail-biting finale on Sunday, July 9.</p>

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Veteran Australian star Mitchell Starc has underlined his mantra for success after returning to the side in the ongoing Ashes as he tries to help his side retain the holy grail.

Veteran Australian star Mitchell Starc has underlined his mantra for success after returning to the side in the ongoing Ashes as he tries to help his side retain the holy grail. Starc, rested for the first Ashes Test in Edgbaston, was brought back into the side for the second and third contest and has since scalped 13 wickets. The Aussies will look to seal the Ashes yet again as they currently lead the five-match series 2-1 with two matches still to go. Starc reveals success mantra "I wasn't going to change that this time, and if that meant I didn't play, so be it. I was going to stick to my strengths and what I bring to the attack rather than trying to be someone like Josh [Hazlewood] or someone like Pat [Cummins] because that's not going to complement the group,” Starc said as quoted by Espncricinfo. Despite missing the opening Test, Starc is only three wickets behind leading wicket-taker Stuart Broad (16) in the Ashes 2023. The 33-year-old’s tally has been only bettered by Broad and his own skipper Pat Cummins (15) while they have played one match more than Starc. His impact was sensible immediately after returning to the squad as he scalped three wickets in both innings of the Lord’s Test. "There was a big [focus] on economy rates last time which plenty of guys spoke about throughout the tour, and we all bought into that. And that was something that worked really [well] for us to retain the Ashes then," Starc said. "[But] it affected my approach certainly going back to Australia and losing some airspeed. It took away from some of my strengths and some of the role that I play in our attack,” added Starc. ALSO READ | Asia Cup 2023: India NOT to travel to Pakistan, confirms IPL chairman Arun Dhumal Next Test in Manchester Australia will take on England in the fourth Ashes Test, which will start on Wednesday, July 19 at Old Trafford. England made a remarkable comeback in the Ashes after winning the Headingley Test and have reduced the visitor's lead to 2-1. England won the contest in Leeds by three wickets in another nail-biting finale on Sunday, July 9. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Ashes 2023: Mitchell Starc underlines success MANTRA in English summer, 'I wasn't going to change...'

<p>Ashes 2023 is still two Tests away from a conclusion. So far, all three Test matches have gone down to the wire. The losing side in each of the three games had a chance to win but somehow finished second. Thus, the five-match series is already one of the greatest series of the 21st century.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Talking about the third Test, at Leeds, Headingley, the match once again saw the momentum shift from one team to the other before Ben Stokes &amp; Co. finally got off the mark in the riveting series. In the series opener, at Edgbaston, England paid the price for some silly mistakes in the end moments before Stokes held out as the&nbsp;lone warrior in&nbsp;pursuit of 371 in the second Test&nbsp;at Lord's.</p>

<p>Nonetheless, the addition of Mark Wood and his raw pace jolted Australia as the home side managed to narrow down the Aussies' lead to 2-1.&nbsp;The fourth and penultimate Test is more than a week away.</p>

<h2><strong>RECAP OF THE HEADINGLEY THRILLER</strong></h2>

<p>Before we dig into how England won the third Test, let us revisit the match. Opting to bowl first, England rode on Stuart Broad and Wood's early strikes with&nbsp;Australia reeling at 85 for 4. At No. 6, Mitchell Marsh came out to bat along with Travis Head as the duo stitched an impressive 155-run fifth-wicket stand. At 240 for 4, Australia were on course to surpass the 350-run mark.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, Wood had another brilliant spell up his sleeves as he&nbsp;rattled the Aussies to dismiss them for 263. Wood's 5 for 34 sidelined Marsh's 118, despite it being a highly-impressive knock from a batter on a comeback trail. In reply to Australia's 263, England only managed 237. Pat Cummins' 6 for 68 led to England failing to take a sizeable lead with Stokes (80) being their top-scorer.</p>

<p>While Australia took the lead, they had England on the back foot at 167&nbsp;for 8. But&nbsp;Stokes' entertaining 80 prevented the Aussies from dictating terms with a healthy lead. In their second essay, Australia never got going and were struggling at 139 for 6 before Head's 77 enabled his side to set a 251-run target.</p>

<p>In reply, England were nervy in their approach. The hosts were 93 for 3 and then reduced to 161 for 5, with Stokes dismissed for 13, but Harry Brook (75) and vital knocks from Chris Woakes (32 not out) and Wood (eight-ball 16 not out) took the English side past the finish line with three wickets in hand.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashes-2023-over-the-moon-ben-stokes-hails-trio-of-woods-woakes-and-moeen-after-critical-win-at-headingley-613724">Ashes 2023: 'Over the moon' Ben Stokes hails trio of Woods, Woakes and Moeen after critical win at Headingley</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>HOW ENGLAND MANAGED TO KEEP THE ASHES ALIVE</strong></h2>

<p>Those who watched the game can easily say that Wood's inclusion did the trick for England. Reeling at 2-0, Stokes-Brendon McCullum-led team management dropped James Anderson -- who only accounted for three scalps in the opening two games -- and added Wood to the setup. His addition suddenly brightened England's bowling attack as his relentless pace, bounce and energy fired up the English line-up.</p>

<p>Wood was a speed demon who bowled every ball with the only&nbsp;purpose to take a wicket and not contain runs. He was&nbsp;always&nbsp;in the hunt, setting up the batters with his disciplined line and lengths and&nbsp;making the Aussies dance to his chin music. He was giving it his all. Every spell pumped up the English fans and brought his side back into the contest or put them ahead.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Wood was regularly clocking over 90mph without breaking a sweat. While he is one of England's fastest, it wasn't all about his speed. The 33-year-old bowled straight and kept it full as per the conditions and brought on the short-ball ploy with ease. In addition, his bat did the talking in both innings. Wood lifted England, after lunch on Day 2, with a berserk eight-ball 24 (laced with a four and 3 sixes at a strike rate of 300). He passed on the baton to Stokes before the English captain took his side to 237 all-out courtesy of his stroke-filled 80.</p>

<p>Even on the fourth day, England were 230 for 7 -- chasing 251 -- and two more wickets could have once again opened the game. Nonetheless, that wasn't going to be the case with Wood going bonkers and killing the contest in a jiffy. He produced another entertaining cameo (striking at 200) to take his side home.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A lot has been said and written about England's bazball approach. It was under stern test in the third Test with them trailing 0-2. However, Wood backed the style as his positive energy and&nbsp;gungho&nbsp;approach (with both bat and ball) have eased England's issues to an extent as they now trail 1-2 with two more spicy contests in store.</p>

<h2><strong>WOOD HAD A BALL IN HEADINGLEY</strong></h2>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">🎶 Pace and bounce, pace and bounce 🎶 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/EnglandCricket?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#EnglandCricket</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ashes?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ashes</a> <a href="https://t.co/WSxUe9y9Z2">pic.twitter.com/WSxUe9y9Z2</a></p>
— England Cricket (@englandcricket) <a href="https://twitter.com/englandcricket/status/1677728826250657792?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 8, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Never in doubt 😉 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/EnglandCricket?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#EnglandCricket</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ashes?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ashes</a> <a href="https://t.co/8FapL3CV4u">pic.twitter.com/8FapL3CV4u</a></p>
— England Cricket (@englandcricket) <a href="https://twitter.com/englandcricket/status/1677724758476197888?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 8, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">A thrilling cameo from Woody 🚀<br />
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2️⃣4️⃣ from just 8️⃣ balls! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/EnglandCricket?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#EnglandCricket</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ashes?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ashes</a> <a href="https://t.co/9J4rOCAcrK">pic.twitter.com/9J4rOCAcrK</a></p>
— England Cricket (@englandcricket) <a href="https://twitter.com/englandcricket/status/1677299517413261314?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 7, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Woody bringing the HEAT 🔥<br />
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Every rocket from our speed demon in that morning session 🚀<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/EnglandCricket?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#EnglandCricket</a> | 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ashes?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ashes</a> 🇦🇺 | <a href="https://twitter.com/MAWood33?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MAWood33</a> <a href="https://t.co/gh2AETMLMa">pic.twitter.com/gh2AETMLMa</a></p>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">It's full and straight and far too quick for Usman Khawaja 🌪️<br />
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Australia are 2 down and Mark Wood is on fire! 🔥 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/EnglandCricket?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#EnglandCricket</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ashes?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ashes</a> <a href="https://t.co/y5MAB1rWxd">pic.twitter.com/y5MAB1rWxd</a></p>
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<p>At the post-match presentation, Wood stated, "Delighted to be here to stand as the Man of the Match. Tried to run in as hard as I can. Stokesy told me to bowl as fast as I could. Things still to work on going into the next game. I was pleased with my 24 off 8. Would be tough going into the next game. The support everywhere we go is amazing, but it's always better in the north, isn't it? Will see I how pull up but will do everything I can to be ready."</p>

<p>Going by Wood's performance and words, Headingley's heroics might have been just a sneak peek and he probably&nbsp;has more to offer in the remaining two Tests.&nbsp;</p>

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Ashes 2023 is still two Tests away from a conclusion. So far, all three Test matches have gone down to the wire. The losing side in each of the three games had a chance to win but somehow finished second.

Ashes 2023 is still two Tests away from a conclusion. So far, all three Test matches have gone down to the wire. The losing side in each of the three games had a chance to win but somehow finished second. Thus, the five-match series is already one of the greatest series of the 21st century. Talking about the third Test, at Leeds, Headingley, the match once again saw the momentum shift from one team to the other before Ben Stokes & Co. finally got off the mark in the riveting series. In the series opener, at Edgbaston, England paid the price for some silly mistakes in the end moments before Stokes held out as the lone warrior in pursuit of 371 in the second Test at Lord's. Nonetheless, the addition of Mark Wood and his raw pace jolted Australia as the home side managed to narrow down the Aussies' lead to 2-1. The fourth and penultimate Test is more than a week away. RECAP OF THE HEADINGLEY THRILLER Before we dig into how England won the third Test, let us revisit the match. Opting to bowl first, England rode on Stuart Broad and Wood's early strikes with Australia reeling at 85 for 4. At No. 6, Mitchell Marsh came out to bat along with Travis Head as the duo stitched an impressive 155-run fifth-wicket stand. At 240 for 4, Australia were on course to surpass the 350-run mark. However, Wood had another brilliant spell up his sleeves as he rattled the Aussies to dismiss them for 263. Wood's 5 for 34 sidelined Marsh's 118, despite it being a highly-impressive knock from a batter on a comeback trail. In reply to Australia's 263, England only managed 237. Pat Cummins' 6 for 68 led to England failing to take a sizeable lead with Stokes (80) being their top-scorer. While Australia took the lead, they had England on the back foot at 167 for 8. But Stokes' entertaining 80 prevented the Aussies from dictating terms with a healthy lead. In their second essay, Australia never got going and were struggling at 139 for 6 before Head's 77 enabled his side to set a 251-run target. In reply, England were nervy in their approach. The hosts were 93 for 3 and then reduced to 161 for 5, with Stokes dismissed for 13, but Harry Brook (75) and vital knocks from Chris Woakes (32 not out) and Wood (eight-ball 16 not out) took the English side past the finish line with three wickets in hand. Also Read: Ashes 2023: 'Over the moon' Ben Stokes hails trio of Woods, Woakes and Moeen after critical win at Headingley HOW ENGLAND MANAGED TO KEEP THE ASHES ALIVE Those who watched the game can easily say that Wood's inclusion did the trick for England. Reeling at 2-0, Stokes-Brendon McCullum-led team management dropped James Anderson -- who only accounted for three scalps in the opening two games -- and added Wood to the setup. His addition suddenly brightened England's bowling attack as his relentless pace, bounce and energy fired up the English line-up. Wood was a speed demon who bowled every ball with the only purpose to take a wicket and not contain runs. He was always in the hunt, setting up the batters with his disciplined line and lengths and making the Aussies dance to his chin music. He was giving it his all. Every spell pumped up the English fans and brought his side back into the contest or put them ahead. Wood was regularly clocking over 90mph without breaking a sweat. While he is one of England's fastest, it wasn't all about his speed. The 33-year-old bowled straight and kept it full as per the conditions and brought on the short-ball ploy with ease. In addition, his bat did the talking in both innings. Wood lifted England, after lunch on Day 2, with a berserk eight-ball 24 (laced with a four and 3 sixes at a strike rate of 300). He passed on the baton to Stokes before the English captain took his side to 237 all-out courtesy of his stroke-filled 80. Even on the fourth day, England were 230 for 7 -- chasing 251 -- and two more wickets could have once again opened the game. Nonetheless, that wasn't going to be the case with Wood going bonkers and killing the contest in a jiffy. He produced another entertaining cameo (striking at 200) to take his side home. A lot has been said and written about England's bazball approach. It was under stern test in the third Test with them trailing 0-2. However, Wood backed the style as his positive energy and gungho approach (with both bat and ball) have eased England's issues to an extent as they now trail 1-2 with two more spicy contests in store. WOOD HAD A BALL IN HEADINGLEY 🎶 Pace and bounce, pace and bounce 🎶 #EnglandCricket | #Ashes pic.twitter.com/WSxUe9y9Z2 — England Cricket (@englandcricket) July 8, 2023 × Never in doubt 😉 #EnglandCricket | #Ashes pic.twitter.com/8FapL3CV4u — England Cricket (@englandcricket) July 8, 2023 × A thrilling cameo from Woody 🚀 2️⃣4️⃣ from just 8️⃣ balls! #EnglandCricket | #Ashes pic.twitter.com/9J4rOCAcrK — England Cricket (@englandcricket) July 7, 2023 × Woody bringing the HEAT 🔥 Every rocket from our speed demon in that morning session 🚀#EnglandCricket | 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 #Ashes 🇦🇺 | @MAWood33 pic.twitter.com/gh2AETMLMa — England Cricket (@englandcricket) July 6, 2023 × It's full and straight and far too quick for Usman Khawaja 🌪️ Australia are 2 down and Mark Wood is on fire! 🔥 #EnglandCricket | #Ashes pic.twitter.com/y5MAB1rWxd — England Cricket (@englandcricket) July 6, 2023 × At the post-match presentation, Wood stated, "Delighted to be here to stand as the Man of the Match. Tried to run in as hard as I can. Stokesy told me to bowl as fast as I could. Things still to work on going into the next game. I was pleased with my 24 off 8. Would be tough going into the next game. The support everywhere we go is amazing, but it's always better in the north, isn't it? Will see I how pull up but will do everything I can to be ready." Going by Wood's performance and words, Headingley's heroics might have been just a sneak peek and he probably has more to offer in the remaining two Tests. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

EXPLAINED: How Mark Wood's all-round performance at Headingley kept Ashes 2023 alive for England

<p>On Thursday (July 06), Steve Smith became the 15th Australian and 75th player overall to enter the 100-Test club during Day 1 of the third Ashes Test, at Leeds, Headingley. Smith, who started as a leg-spinner, is one of the legends of the modern-day game who has redefined his career as one of the greatest batters -- especially in the purest format of the game. He has over 9,000 runs (9,113) in whites at an average of nearly 60 with 32 hundreds.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Smith has been Australia's go-to-batter over the years and played an integral role in their success in the longest format. With him achieving the 100-Test milestone, Australian captain Pat Cummins lauded Smith during the coin toss of the third Ashes Test in Headingley.&nbsp;"For Smith, his 100th game. Huge, the standard he's set, averaging almost 60 is incredible," Cummins said after Ben Stokes-led England opted to bowl first in the third Test.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/stop-concentrating-on-india-vs-pakistan-shaheen-afridi-says-winning-cwc23-is-babar-cos-main-aim-612604">Stop concentrating on India vs Pakistan: Shaheen Afridi says winning CWC'23 is Babar &amp; Co's main aim</a></strong></p>

<p>Smith has been in good form in the ongoing English summer. He made a brisk 121 versus India in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) -- where Cummins &amp; Co. won by 209 runs -- and while he struggled in the Ashes 2023 opener, he returned with 110 and 34 in the second Test at Lord's. As Australia have a 2-0 lead and is on the verge of winning their first away Ashes since 2001, Smith will be desperate to score a daddy hundred in the ongoing third Test and help his side retain the urn with an unassailable 3-0 lead in the five-match series.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After being asked to bat first, Australia had a tough start in the third Test. While David Warner departed for 4, Usman Khawaja's stumps were rattled by Mark Wood who also dismissed Marnus Labuschagne. Australia is now dependent on Smith to keep the scoreboard moving and take his side out of troubled waters.</p>

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On Thursday (July 06), Steve Smith became the 15th Australian and 75th player overall to enter the 100-Test club during Day 1 of the third Ashes Test, at Leeds, Headingley.

On Thursday (July 06), Steve Smith became the 15th Australian and 75th player overall to enter the 100-Test club during Day 1 of the third Ashes Test, at Leeds, Headingley. Smith, who started as a leg-spinner, is one of the legends of the modern-day game who has redefined his career as one of the greatest batters -- especially in the purest format of the game. He has over 9,000 runs (9,113) in whites at an average of nearly 60 with 32 hundreds. Smith has been Australia's go-to-batter over the years and played an integral role in their success in the longest format. With him achieving the 100-Test milestone, Australian captain Pat Cummins lauded Smith during the coin toss of the third Ashes Test in Headingley. "For Smith, his 100th game. Huge, the standard he's set, averaging almost 60 is incredible," Cummins said after Ben Stokes-led England opted to bowl first in the third Test. Also Read: Stop concentrating on India vs Pakistan: Shaheen Afridi says winning CWC'23 is Babar & Co's main aim Smith has been in good form in the ongoing English summer. He made a brisk 121 versus India in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) -- where Cummins & Co. won by 209 runs -- and while he struggled in the Ashes 2023 opener, he returned with 110 and 34 in the second Test at Lord's. As Australia have a 2-0 lead and is on the verge of winning their first away Ashes since 2001, Smith will be desperate to score a daddy hundred in the ongoing third Test and help his side retain the urn with an unassailable 3-0 lead in the five-match series. After being asked to bat first, Australia had a tough start in the third Test. While David Warner departed for 4, Usman Khawaja's stumps were rattled by Mark Wood who also dismissed Marnus Labuschagne. Australia is now dependent on Smith to keep the scoreboard moving and take his side out of troubled waters. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Ashes 2023 | He has set high standard: Aussie captain Pat Cummins lauds Steve Smith for 100th Test milestone

<p>Pat Cummins has blasted the England Cricket team on the eve of the third Ashes Test match as the convoy of teams now moves to Headingley in what will be a decisive contest for both sides. Controversy surrounded the second Test at Lord’s after English wicketkeeper-batter Jonny Bairstow was dismissed in a correct but controversial manner that sparked the debate of ‘Spirit of Cricket’. Cummins has now taken a dig at England as his team now sits a draw away from retaining the Ashes yet again.</p>

<p>"I don't think a conversation about the spirit of cricket even comes into a dismissal like that. It was plain and simple a stumping," the Australian captain Cummins said.</p>

<h2><strong>What happened on Day 5 of the Lord’s Test?</strong></h2>

<p>On the last ball of the 52nd over, Bairstow facing Cameron Green ended with leaving his crease having thought the dot ball has been called dead, while it was not. The moment was seized by Australian wicketkeeper Alex Carey as he threw the ball on the stumps which resulted in Bairstow’s unlikely dismissal, while he was out of the crease. The on-field umpires, Ahsan Raza and Chris Gaffaney went upstairs to the third umpire Marais Erasmus to check whether the ball is dead or not and confirmed Baistrow’s decision leaving England fans and the team in disbelief as they thought the dismissal was against the spirit of the game.</p>

<p>England would later pump a reaction in the form of skipper Ben Stokes’ aggressive approach that saw him score 155. However, his dismissal in the 73rd over proved to be the final straw for the hosts as they would later lose by 43 runs which has resulted them in trailing the Ashes 0-2 on home turf.</p>

<p>"For what I think is a pretty common non-event, it does seem like everyone has a pretty strong opinion about it. I don't think there's any discussion; it's out. If the shoe was on the other foot, I wouldn't be looking at the opposition, I'd probably be thinking [about] our own batter, and would be thinking it's pretty silly."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/saff-championships-final-india-down-kuwait-to-clinch-historic-triumph-gurpreet-yet-again-turns-shootout-hero-611974">SAFF Championships Final: India down Kuwait to clinch ninth title; Gurpreet yet again turns shootout hero</a></p>

<h2><strong>Australia to retain Ashes at Headingley?</strong></h2>

<p>Both England and Australia will take the field in the Third Ashes Test which starts on Thursday, July 6 at Headingley in Leeds. Currently, the hosts are tailing 0-2 and will need an improbable comeback to stay in the hunt for their first Ashes glory in eight years. A draw in Leeds will see Australia retain the Ashes as England would only manage to level the series at 2-2 even in case they win the remaining two Tests. A win for England though will make matters interesting with the fourth and fifth Ashes Tests taking place at Old Trafford and the Oval respectively later this month.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

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Pat Cummins has blasted the England Cricket team on the eve of the third Ashes Test match as the convoy of teams now moves to Headingley in what will be a decisive contest for both sides.

Pat Cummins has blasted the England Cricket team on the eve of the third Ashes Test match as the convoy of teams now moves to Headingley in what will be a decisive contest for both sides. Controversy surrounded the second Test at Lord’s after English wicketkeeper-batter Jonny Bairstow was dismissed in a correct but controversial manner that sparked the debate of ‘Spirit of Cricket’. Cummins has now taken a dig at England as his team now sits a draw away from retaining the Ashes yet again. "I don't think a conversation about the spirit of cricket even comes into a dismissal like that. It was plain and simple a stumping," the Australian captain Cummins said. What happened on Day 5 of the Lord’s Test? On the last ball of the 52nd over, Bairstow facing Cameron Green ended with leaving his crease having thought the dot ball has been called dead, while it was not. The moment was seized by Australian wicketkeeper Alex Carey as he threw the ball on the stumps which resulted in Bairstow’s unlikely dismissal, while he was out of the crease. The on-field umpires, Ahsan Raza and Chris Gaffaney went upstairs to the third umpire Marais Erasmus to check whether the ball is dead or not and confirmed Baistrow’s decision leaving England fans and the team in disbelief as they thought the dismissal was against the spirit of the game. England would later pump a reaction in the form of skipper Ben Stokes’ aggressive approach that saw him score 155. However, his dismissal in the 73rd over proved to be the final straw for the hosts as they would later lose by 43 runs which has resulted them in trailing the Ashes 0-2 on home turf. "For what I think is a pretty common non-event, it does seem like everyone has a pretty strong opinion about it. I don't think there's any discussion; it's out. If the shoe was on the other foot, I wouldn't be looking at the opposition, I'd probably be thinking [about] our own batter, and would be thinking it's pretty silly." ALSO READ | SAFF Championships Final: India down Kuwait to clinch ninth title; Gurpreet yet again turns shootout hero Australia to retain Ashes at Headingley? Both England and Australia will take the field in the Third Ashes Test which starts on Thursday, July 6 at Headingley in Leeds. Currently, the hosts are tailing 0-2 and will need an improbable comeback to stay in the hunt for their first Ashes glory in eight years. A draw in Leeds will see Australia retain the Ashes as England would only manage to level the series at 2-2 even in case they win the remaining two Tests. A win for England though will make matters interesting with the fourth and fifth Ashes Tests taking place at Old Trafford and the Oval respectively later this month. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Ashes 2023: Pat Cummins BLASTS England after Lord's drama, dismisses talks surrounding 'Spirit of Cricket'

<p>England and Australia produced another thrilling clash in Ashes 2023 as Pat Cummins &amp; Co. won the second Test&nbsp;at Lord's&nbsp;on Day 5 by 43 runs in defence of 371. Resuming Day 5, English duo captain Ben Stokes and Ben Duckett (83) started positively before the latter fell and Australia dismissed Jonny Bairstow for cheap (10).</p>

<p>Stokes-Stuart Broad stitched an entertaining 108-run seventh-wicket stand before the English skipper departed for 155 -- laced with nine fours and an equal number of sixes -- as the visitors dismissed England for 327 to go 2-0 down in the series. Bairstow's dismissal triggered a big controversy as he was seen wandering out of the crease, after ducking a slower bouncer from Cameron Green, to be stumped out by Alex Carey. His dismissal led to a verbal spat between the Aussie players and some of the&nbsp;Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) members.</p>

<p>After Australia's win, Cummins was asked about the Bairstow dismissal by an English reporter in the post-match conference.&nbsp;The journalist asked if Australia&nbsp;would resort to underarm bowling or if the bowlers will try&nbsp;to run out the non-striker in the remaining Tests in the aftermath of Bairstow's dismissal.&nbsp;To this, the Aussie pacer had a savage response.</p>

<p>"Depends on how flat the wickets get. It might be an option to turn to," said Cummins.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/seemed-like-a-fish-market-ex-india-opener-reacts-to-long-room-verbal-spat-on-day-5-of-lords-test-611408">Seemed like a fish market: Ex-India opener reacts to Long Room verbal spat on Day 5 of Lord's Test</a></strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">An English reporter had a ridiculous cop out by asking if we’re going to see under-arm bowling from Australia in this series.<br />
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Pat Cummins: “Depends how flat the wickets get. Might be an option to turn to.” PLEASE😭😂😭 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ashes?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ashes</a> <a href="https://t.co/GvoYAmWv0n">pic.twitter.com/GvoYAmWv0n</a></p>
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<p>On Australian wicketkeeper Carey pulling off a smart dismissal of Bairstow, Cummins opined, "Carey saw it happen previously, it's in the Laws, totally fair play. That's how I saw it."</p>

<p>The Bairstow dismissal became a huge talking point after the Lord's Test. However, it remains within the laws of the game. It will be interesting to see how things pan out when both sides meet in the third Test, which gets underway on Thursday (July 06) at Leeds, Headingley.</p>

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England and Australia produced another thrilling clash in Ashes 2023 as Pat Cummins & Co. won the second Test at Lord's on Day 5 by 43 runs in defence of 371. Resuming Day 5, English duo captain Ben Stokes and Ben Duckett (83) started positively before the latter fell and Australia dismissed Jonny Bairstow for cheap (10).

England and Australia produced another thrilling clash in Ashes 2023 as Pat Cummins & Co. won the second Test at Lord's on Day 5 by 43 runs in defence of 371. Resuming Day 5, English duo captain Ben Stokes and Ben Duckett (83) started positively before the latter fell and Australia dismissed Jonny Bairstow for cheap (10). Stokes-Stuart Broad stitched an entertaining 108-run seventh-wicket stand before the English skipper departed for 155 -- laced with nine fours and an equal number of sixes -- as the visitors dismissed England for 327 to go 2-0 down in the series. Bairstow's dismissal triggered a big controversy as he was seen wandering out of the crease, after ducking a slower bouncer from Cameron Green, to be stumped out by Alex Carey. His dismissal led to a verbal spat between the Aussie players and some of the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) members. After Australia's win, Cummins was asked about the Bairstow dismissal by an English reporter in the post-match conference. The journalist asked if Australia would resort to underarm bowling or if the bowlers will try to run out the non-striker in the remaining Tests in the aftermath of Bairstow's dismissal. To this, the Aussie pacer had a savage response. "Depends on how flat the wickets get. It might be an option to turn to," said Cummins. Also Read: Seemed like a fish market: Ex-India opener reacts to Long Room verbal spat on Day 5 of Lord's Test An English reporter had a ridiculous cop out by asking if we’re going to see under-arm bowling from Australia in this series. Pat Cummins: “Depends how flat the wickets get. Might be an option to turn to.” PLEASE😭😂😭 #Ashes pic.twitter.com/GvoYAmWv0n — Jessica (@sleepyJAK) July 2, 2023 × On Australian wicketkeeper Carey pulling off a smart dismissal of Bairstow, Cummins opined, "Carey saw it happen previously, it's in the Laws, totally fair play. That's how I saw it." The Bairstow dismissal became a huge talking point after the Lord's Test. However, it remains within the laws of the game. It will be interesting to see how things pan out when both sides meet in the third Test, which gets underway on Thursday (July 06) at Leeds, Headingley. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Underarm bowling on cards? Pat Cummins gives EPIC reply to English journalist after Lord's Test drama

<p>Australia are well positioned to win their second consecutive Test in Ashes 2023, needing six English wickets on the final day at Lord's. England, who did well&nbsp;earlier in the day by dismissing Australia for 279 in their second innings, failed to capitalise.</p>

<p>Chasing 371 to win, England had a horrible start to their second innings, with Mitchell Starc claiming the wicket of Zak Crawley first up. The left-arm Aussie struck again shortly after as he removed Ollie Pope with a snorter. Australia skipper Pat Cummins then took two wickets in one over to leave England four down for 45. Cummins took out Joe Root, England's best batsman, and Harry Brook in the space of three balls.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashes-2023-england-spinner-moeen-ali-expected-to-be-back-for-third-test-610887">Ashes 2023: England spinner Moeen Ali expected to be back for third Test</a></p>

<p>England's other opener Ben Duckett was then joined by his skipper Ben Stokes. The duo added unbeaten 69 runs for the fifth wicket as the hosts finished the day on 114/4. The Bazballing Englishmen still need 257 runs to win. Duckett, meanwhile, scored his half-century and was not out on 50 at the end of the day, with Stokes at 29 not out.</p>

<p>Earlier, Australia started their day well from the overnight score of 130 before Stuart Broad removed Usman Khawaja (77) on a team score of 187. Pacer Josh Tongue then took the wicket of Steve Smith before Broad struck again with Travis Head's wicket. Cameron Green, Alex Carey, Mitchell Starc and Pat Cummins, all played handy knocks of 18, 21, 15, and 11, respectively as Australia got bundled out for 279 at the stroke of Tea on day 4.</p>

<p>Stuart Broad was the pick of the bowlers for England with four wickets to his name. Josh Tongue and Ollie Robinson chipped in with two apiece while veteran James Anderson and Ben Stokes took one each. England didn't bowl a single over of spin in the second innings after opting for an all-pace attack at Lord's.</p>

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Australia are well positioned to win their second consecutive Test in Ashes 2023, needing six English wickets on the final day at Lord's. England, who did well earlier in the day by dismissing Australia for 279 in their second innings, failed to capitalise.

Australia are well positioned to win their second consecutive Test in Ashes 2023, needing six English wickets on the final day at Lord's. England, who did well earlier in the day by dismissing Australia for 279 in their second innings, failed to capitalise. Chasing 371 to win, England had a horrible start to their second innings, with Mitchell Starc claiming the wicket of Zak Crawley first up. The left-arm Aussie struck again shortly after as he removed Ollie Pope with a snorter. Australia skipper Pat Cummins then took two wickets in one over to leave England four down for 45. Cummins took out Joe Root, England's best batsman, and Harry Brook in the space of three balls. Also Read: Ashes 2023: England spinner Moeen Ali expected to be back for third Test England's other opener Ben Duckett was then joined by his skipper Ben Stokes. The duo added unbeaten 69 runs for the fifth wicket as the hosts finished the day on 114/4. The Bazballing Englishmen still need 257 runs to win. Duckett, meanwhile, scored his half-century and was not out on 50 at the end of the day, with Stokes at 29 not out. Earlier, Australia started their day well from the overnight score of 130 before Stuart Broad removed Usman Khawaja (77) on a team score of 187. Pacer Josh Tongue then took the wicket of Steve Smith before Broad struck again with Travis Head's wicket. Cameron Green, Alex Carey, Mitchell Starc and Pat Cummins, all played handy knocks of 18, 21, 15, and 11, respectively as Australia got bundled out for 279 at the stroke of Tea on day 4. Stuart Broad was the pick of the bowlers for England with four wickets to his name. Josh Tongue and Ollie Robinson chipped in with two apiece while veteran James Anderson and Ben Stokes took one each. England didn't bowl a single over of spin in the second innings after opting for an all-pace attack at Lord's. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Ashes 2023: Australia favourites to win second Test, England four down with 257 needed to win on day 5

<p>England bounced back in style on Day 2 of the second Ashes Test at the iconic Lord's cricket ground, London on Thursday (June 29). However, the day didn't end as well as it could have for England&nbsp;since they were 188 for 1 at one stage, before losing the plot in a jiffy. Australia resumed the day at 339 for 5 as English bowlers dismissed them for 416 and the home side ended the day's proceedings at 278 for 4 after Ben Duckett's 98.</p>

<p>Pat Cummins &amp; Co. resorted to short-ball tactics to get three late wickets on Day 2, dismissing Duckett, Ollie Pope and Joe Root to remain in the contest. Seeing England succumb to Aussies' short-ball ploy, former England captain Michael Vaughan slammed their much-talked-about Bazball approach as they wasted an opportunity to end the day on a high.</p>

<h2><strong>'Can't mix entertainment with stupidity'</strong></h2>

<p>"I think we've got to be realistic though, we can't mix entertainment with stupidity. Now, for the first 182 runs, I saw an England side that went out to bat and played with great entertainment because they played proper cricket strokes. They played the Australian bowlers, the quicks, with great balance, great scoring options on the front foot, the back foot," Vaughan said while speaking to BBC Sport's Ashes Daily</p>

<p><strong>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/lords-test-ab-de-villiers-gives-thumbs-up-to-aussie-skipper-pat-cummins-short-ball-ploy-on-day-2-610494">Lord's Test: AB de Villiers gives thumbs up to Aussie skipper Pat Cummins' short ball ploy on Day 2</a></strong></p>

<p>He added, "I thought Australia offered too many easy options. The ball wasn't doing anything laterally so it was quite nice to hit through the line. The likes of Ben Duckett, Zak Crawley, Ollie Pope played beautifully. It was great to watch. Pat Cummins, he only had that option to go to because there was nothing happening through the air. There was no seam movement, so he decides to go to the short stuff and what came after that for the next hour was absolute stupidity."</p>

<p>Day 3 of the second Ashes Test is now underway. England have lost skipper Stokes for 17 as Harry Brook-Jonny Bairstow have a task at hand to take the hosts closer to Australia's 416.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Australia have a 1-0 lead in the five-match series after winning the Ashes 2023 opener&nbsp;in Edgbaston, Birmingham, by two wickets.</p>

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England bounced back in style on Day 2 of the second Ashes Test at the iconic Lord's cricket ground, London on Thursday (June 29). However, the day didn't end as well as it could have for England since they were 188 for 1 at one stage, before losing the plot in a jiffy.

England bounced back in style on Day 2 of the second Ashes Test at the iconic Lord's cricket ground, London on Thursday (June 29). However, the day didn't end as well as it could have for England since they were 188 for 1 at one stage, before losing the plot in a jiffy. Australia resumed the day at 339 for 5 as English bowlers dismissed them for 416 and the home side ended the day's proceedings at 278 for 4 after Ben Duckett's 98. Pat Cummins & Co. resorted to short-ball tactics to get three late wickets on Day 2, dismissing Duckett, Ollie Pope and Joe Root to remain in the contest. Seeing England succumb to Aussies' short-ball ploy, former England captain Michael Vaughan slammed their much-talked-about Bazball approach as they wasted an opportunity to end the day on a high. 'Can't mix entertainment with stupidity' "I think we've got to be realistic though, we can't mix entertainment with stupidity. Now, for the first 182 runs, I saw an England side that went out to bat and played with great entertainment because they played proper cricket strokes. They played the Australian bowlers, the quicks, with great balance, great scoring options on the front foot, the back foot," Vaughan said while speaking to BBC Sport's Ashes Daily Also Read: Lord's Test: AB de Villiers gives thumbs up to Aussie skipper Pat Cummins' short ball ploy on Day 2 He added, "I thought Australia offered too many easy options. The ball wasn't doing anything laterally so it was quite nice to hit through the line. The likes of Ben Duckett, Zak Crawley, Ollie Pope played beautifully. It was great to watch. Pat Cummins, he only had that option to go to because there was nothing happening through the air. There was no seam movement, so he decides to go to the short stuff and what came after that for the next hour was absolute stupidity." Day 3 of the second Ashes Test is now underway. England have lost skipper Stokes for 17 as Harry Brook-Jonny Bairstow have a task at hand to take the hosts closer to Australia's 416. Australia have a 1-0 lead in the five-match series after winning the Ashes 2023 opener in Edgbaston, Birmingham, by two wickets. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

'Can't mix entertainment with stupidity': Vaughan slams Eng batters for falling to Australia's short-ball ploy

<p>After an ordinary opening day, England bounced back in style on Day 2 of the Lord's Test versus Australia. Australia commenced the second day's play at 339 for 5 and soon got wrapped up for 416 with Steve Smith top-scoring with a fine 110. England started on a strong note and ended the day's play at 278 for 4, scoring at 4.56 per over, with opener Ben Duckett (98) leading the charge though he was unlucky to miss&nbsp;his century.</p>

<p>At 188/1, England were looking to end the day strongly but lost three wickets by the end of proceedings on Thursday (June 29) but will be satisfied with their comeback. After Day 2, former England captain Andrew Strauss opined on England's fightback. He feels the home side are now in a 'very strong position' but 'not ahead of the&nbsp;game'.</p>

<p>“It was all Australia yesterday and all England today. England are now in a very strong position, they are not ahead of the game but they have certainly come roaring back. Australia were sloppy, lacked a bit of discipline with their no-balls, and England got the balance right. They attacked but without too much risk. I thought it was an excellent day for them," said Strauss.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashes-2023-nathan-lyons-injury-doesnt-look-good-its-a-big-loss-for-us-says-steve-smith-610348">Ashes 2023: 'Nathan Lyon's injury doesn't look good, it's a big loss for us,' says Steve Smith</a></strong></p>

<p>Australia didn't start well with the ball after missing out on a golden chance to post anything over 500 early in the day. They were sloppy on the field and bowled a lot of no-balls. Cameron Green got rid of Joe Root but had overstepped to give him a lifeline before the former England skipper departed for 10.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Australia's biggest worry will be Nathan Lyon's fitness as the veteran off-spinner, playing his 100th consecutive Test, got injured while fielding and limped off the field. For England, Harry Brook and captain Ben Stokes will resume play on Day 3 and hope to take England beyond Australia's 416.</p>

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After an ordinary opening day, England bounced back in style on Day 2 of the Lord's Test versus Australia. Australia commenced the second day's play at 339 for 5 and soon got wrapped up for 416 with Steve Smith top-scoring with a fine 110.

After an ordinary opening day, England bounced back in style on Day 2 of the Lord's Test versus Australia. Australia commenced the second day's play at 339 for 5 and soon got wrapped up for 416 with Steve Smith top-scoring with a fine 110. England started on a strong note and ended the day's play at 278 for 4, scoring at 4.56 per over, with opener Ben Duckett (98) leading the charge though he was unlucky to miss his century. At 188/1, England were looking to end the day strongly but lost three wickets by the end of proceedings on Thursday (June 29) but will be satisfied with their comeback. After Day 2, former England captain Andrew Strauss opined on England's fightback. He feels the home side are now in a 'very strong position' but 'not ahead of the game'. “It was all Australia yesterday and all England today. England are now in a very strong position, they are not ahead of the game but they have certainly come roaring back. Australia were sloppy, lacked a bit of discipline with their no-balls, and England got the balance right. They attacked but without too much risk. I thought it was an excellent day for them," said Strauss. Also Read: Ashes 2023: 'Nathan Lyon's injury doesn't look good, it's a big loss for us,' says Steve Smith Australia didn't start well with the ball after missing out on a golden chance to post anything over 500 early in the day. They were sloppy on the field and bowled a lot of no-balls. Cameron Green got rid of Joe Root but had overstepped to give him a lifeline before the former England skipper departed for 10. Australia's biggest worry will be Nathan Lyon's fitness as the veteran off-spinner, playing his 100th consecutive Test, got injured while fielding and limped off the field. For England, Harry Brook and captain Ben Stokes will resume play on Day 3 and hope to take England beyond Australia's 416. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

Ashes 2023: 'Hosts not ahead but...': Former England captain opines on Day 2's proceedings at Lord's

<p>Australia were bundled up for 416 on Day 2 of the second Ashes Test, at Lord's, before England ended the day's play at 278 for 4, trailing by&nbsp;138 runs. At 188 for 1, England lost the plot in the evening session as they lost three wickets due to Pat Cummins &amp; Co.'s short-ball tactics. Former South Africa skipper AB de Villiers lauded Cummins for his aggressive captaincy as Australia came back in the last session of Day 2.</p>

<p>De Villiers took to his official Twitter handle and wrote, "When a fast bowler, who’s also the Captain, and can hold the bat himself realises that no one is fully in control or comfortable against the short ball. Even the best in the world feel uncomfortable to quality short bowling to the right field placing. Credit to Cummins for taking this route, but more importantly, persisting with it. Aus have opened it up here while Eng looked like dominating procedures. Smart Cricket. Very entertaining."</p>

<p>He added, "And bear in mind, this pitch is fairly low and slow! Imagine…"&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashes-2023-hosts-not-ahead-but-former-england-captain-opines-on-day-2s-proceedings-at-lords-610425">Ashes 2023: 'Hosts not ahead but...': Former England captain opines on Day 2's proceedings at Lord's</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>ABD lauds Pat Cummins</strong></h2>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">When a fast bowler, who’s also the Captain, and can hold the bat himself realises that no one is fully in control or comfortable against the short ball. Even the best in the world feel uncomfortable to quality short bowling to the right field placing.<br />
<br />
Credit to Cummins for…</p>
— AB de Villiers (@ABdeVilliers17) <a href="https://twitter.com/ABdeVilliers17/status/1674457877686231041?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 29, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Australia remain in the game at stumps on Day 2 due to the three late wickets -- with Ollie Pope, Ben Duckett (98) and Joe Root falling to the short-ball ploy. However, the visitors have a herculean task of stopping Ben Stokes &amp; Co. from racing ahead as their premier spinner Nathan Lyon got injured and limped off the field on Thursday.</p>

<p>For England, they are scoring at over 4.5 runs per over and will look to surpass Australia's 416 with wickets in hand. They will hope to take&nbsp;a sizeable lead and put pressure on Australia in their second essay.&nbsp;</p>

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Australia were bundled up for 416 on Day 2 of the second Ashes Test, at Lord's, before England ended the day's play at 278 for 4, trailing by 138 runs. At 188 for 1, England lost the plot in the evening session as they lost three wickets due to Pat Cummins & Co.

Australia were bundled up for 416 on Day 2 of the second Ashes Test, at Lord's, before England ended the day's play at 278 for 4, trailing by 138 runs. At 188 for 1, England lost the plot in the evening session as they lost three wickets due to Pat Cummins & Co.'s short-ball tactics. Former South Africa skipper AB de Villiers lauded Cummins for his aggressive captaincy as Australia came back in the last session of Day 2. De Villiers took to his official Twitter handle and wrote, "When a fast bowler, who’s also the Captain, and can hold the bat himself realises that no one is fully in control or comfortable against the short ball. Even the best in the world feel uncomfortable to quality short bowling to the right field placing. Credit to Cummins for taking this route, but more importantly, persisting with it. Aus have opened it up here while Eng looked like dominating procedures. Smart Cricket. Very entertaining." He added, "And bear in mind, this pitch is fairly low and slow! Imagine…" Also Read: Ashes 2023: 'Hosts not ahead but...': Former England captain opines on Day 2's proceedings at Lord's ABD lauds Pat Cummins When a fast bowler, who’s also the Captain, and can hold the bat himself realises that no one is fully in control or comfortable against the short ball. Even the best in the world feel uncomfortable to quality short bowling to the right field placing. Credit to Cummins for… — AB de Villiers (@ABdeVilliers17) June 29, 2023 × Australia remain in the game at stumps on Day 2 due to the three late wickets -- with Ollie Pope, Ben Duckett (98) and Joe Root falling to the short-ball ploy. However, the visitors have a herculean task of stopping Ben Stokes & Co. from racing ahead as their premier spinner Nathan Lyon got injured and limped off the field on Thursday. For England, they are scoring at over 4.5 runs per over and will look to surpass Australia's 416 with wickets in hand. They will hope to take a sizeable lead and put pressure on Australia in their second essay. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

Lord's Test: AB de Villiers gives thumbs up to Aussie skipper Pat Cummins' short ball ploy on Day 2

<p>England won the toss and opted to bowl first on Day 1 of the second Ashes Test, at Lord's, on Wednesday (June 28), in overcast conditions on a track favourable for bowling. However, they ended the day picking five wickets as Australia managed 339 runs&nbsp;courtesy of fifties from David Warner, Travis Head and Steve Smith (85 not out). After the end of the opening day, former England captain Michael Vaughan expressed concern for Ben Stokes &amp; Co. as hosts trail the five-match series 1-0 after losing the series opener, in Edgbaston, Birmingham, by two wickets.</p>

<p>"England can get back into it but I worry about it. They are going to have to be sharper in the field, I will be intrigued to see how they cope," Vaughan said on BBC's Test Match Special.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashes-2023-nathan-lyon-scripts-history-becomes-first-bowler-to-play-100-successive-tests-609680">Ashes 2023: Nathan Lyon scripts history, becomes first bowler to play 100 successive Tests</a></strong></p>

<p>"I do think this pitch will get harder over the next few days. I worry about England. It's very tough at this stage. They switched off at Edgbaston and today, they haven't been switched on at the key moments," Vaughan further added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>England were sloppy on the field as they dropped chances and Australia made them pay heavily with attacking knocks from Warner (66 off 88), Head (77 off 73) whereas Smith remains unbeaten on 85 and looks set for a daddy hundred. Debutant Josh Tongue (2 for 88) looked good whereas Joe Root picked two wickets in an over towards the end of Day 1 otherwise Australia had been in a more commanding position at the time of stumps.&nbsp;</p>

<p>England will be desperate to dismiss the Australian line-up for less than 400 but it looks an improbable task at the moment. For Australia, they will target anything over 450 with Smith well settled in the middle.</p>

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England won the toss and opted to bowl first on Day 1 of the second Ashes Test, at Lord's, on Wednesday (June 28), in overcast conditions on a track favourable for bowling.

England won the toss and opted to bowl first on Day 1 of the second Ashes Test, at Lord's, on Wednesday (June 28), in overcast conditions on a track favourable for bowling. However, they ended the day picking five wickets as Australia managed 339 runs courtesy of fifties from David Warner, Travis Head and Steve Smith (85 not out). After the end of the opening day, former England captain Michael Vaughan expressed concern for Ben Stokes & Co. as hosts trail the five-match series 1-0 after losing the series opener, in Edgbaston, Birmingham, by two wickets. "England can get back into it but I worry about it. They are going to have to be sharper in the field, I will be intrigued to see how they cope," Vaughan said on BBC's Test Match Special. Also Read: Ashes 2023: Nathan Lyon scripts history, becomes first bowler to play 100 successive Tests "I do think this pitch will get harder over the next few days. I worry about England. It's very tough at this stage. They switched off at Edgbaston and today, they haven't been switched on at the key moments," Vaughan further added. England were sloppy on the field as they dropped chances and Australia made them pay heavily with attacking knocks from Warner (66 off 88), Head (77 off 73) whereas Smith remains unbeaten on 85 and looks set for a daddy hundred. Debutant Josh Tongue (2 for 88) looked good whereas Joe Root picked two wickets in an over towards the end of Day 1 otherwise Australia had been in a more commanding position at the time of stumps. England will be desperate to dismiss the Australian line-up for less than 400 but it looks an improbable task at the moment. For Australia, they will target anything over 450 with Smith well settled in the middle. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

'I worry about England, they need to be...': Vaughan warns Ben Stokes & Co. after Day 1 of Lord's Test

<p>The second of the five Ashes Tests between England and Australia is set to begin on Wednesday, June 28 at Lord's in London. The visitors are already 1-0 up in the series after winning the opening Test in Edgbaston. The England tour, however, still has many days left and former Australia fast bowler Jason Gillespie thinks Kangaroo skipper Pat Cummins could take a rest towards the end of the tour.</p>

<p>Gillespie, in a chat with media outlet Hindustan Times, said that Australia have enough depth in the bowling which could help Cummins take a breather. The former pacer, however, said that Cummins' rest would depend on 'how many overs Cameron Green bowls.'</p>

<p>"I wouldn’t discount Cummins rotating himself, particularly at the backend of the series where there are back-to-back Tests," said Gillespie on Cummins' workload.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashes-2023-ben-stokes-opines-on-icec-report-says-we-need-to-learn-from-past-mistakes-609367">Ben Stokes opines on ICEC report, says 'we need to learn from past mistakes'</a></p>

<p>Notably, Cummins had also led Australia in the World Test Championship (WTC) Final against India just before the start of the Ashes. As for the captaincy options, Gillespie pointed out Steve Smith and Alex Carey as Cummins' potential replacement. Smith was, in fact, Australia's skipper for a long time for being removed.</p>

<p>"They know they've got Steve Smith who is more than capable of leading, or Alex Carey," said Gillespie.</p>

<p>The former Aussie, however, added that while Australia have depth in bowling department, it depends on Cameron Green's workload as the fourth seamer to allow Cummins to take some rest.</p>

<p>"They have got enough depth in the bowling. The number of overs Cameron Green bowls is going to have a big impact. Because, if he bowls as few overs as he did in the first Test (eight), then it will put a bigger workload on Cummins and the other bowlers," said Gillespie.</p>

<p>With ICC ODI World Cup just about a 100 days away, Australia would definitely want their skipper to be fully fit as they try to win their first Ashes in England in over 20 years.</p>

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The second of the five Ashes Tests between England and Australia is set to begin on Wednesday, June 28 at Lord's in London. The visitors are already 1-0 up in the series after winning the opening Test in Edgbaston.

The second of the five Ashes Tests between England and Australia is set to begin on Wednesday, June 28 at Lord's in London. The visitors are already 1-0 up in the series after winning the opening Test in Edgbaston. The England tour, however, still has many days left and former Australia fast bowler Jason Gillespie thinks Kangaroo skipper Pat Cummins could take a rest towards the end of the tour. Gillespie, in a chat with media outlet Hindustan Times, said that Australia have enough depth in the bowling which could help Cummins take a breather. The former pacer, however, said that Cummins' rest would depend on 'how many overs Cameron Green bowls.' "I wouldn’t discount Cummins rotating himself, particularly at the backend of the series where there are back-to-back Tests," said Gillespie on Cummins' workload. Also Read: Ben Stokes opines on ICEC report, says 'we need to learn from past mistakes' Notably, Cummins had also led Australia in the World Test Championship (WTC) Final against India just before the start of the Ashes. As for the captaincy options, Gillespie pointed out Steve Smith and Alex Carey as Cummins' potential replacement. Smith was, in fact, Australia's skipper for a long time for being removed. "They know they've got Steve Smith who is more than capable of leading, or Alex Carey," said Gillespie. The former Aussie, however, added that while Australia have depth in bowling department, it depends on Cameron Green's workload as the fourth seamer to allow Cummins to take some rest. "They have got enough depth in the bowling. The number of overs Cameron Green bowls is going to have a big impact. Because, if he bowls as few overs as he did in the first Test (eight), then it will put a bigger workload on Cummins and the other bowlers," said Gillespie. With ICC ODI World Cup just about a 100 days away, Australia would definitely want their skipper to be fully fit as they try to win their first Ashes in England in over 20 years. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Ashes 2023: Ex-pacer names THIS player who can lead Australia apart from Steve Smith if Pat Cummins takes rest

<p>Australia beat England by two wickets in the opening Test of Ashes 2023 to go 1-0 up in the five-match series. Ben Stokes &amp; Co. were on top in most parts of the contest in Edgbaston, Birmingham but could not get the last two wickets in Australia's 282-run chase on the final day as Usman Khawaja (65) and skipper Pat Cummins (44 not out) led the charge for their side. Throughout the game, England's aggressive approach made heads turn and impressed many but they failed to close the game to go down eventually.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Despite England conceding a 1-0 lead, former English batter Ian Bell believes Australia still have more to work on. Bell feels Australia looked scared during the Edgbaston Test and won only because they played in England's style, during the unbroken 55-run ninth-wicket stand between Cummins (44 not out) and Nathan Lyon (16*) in pursuit of 282. Australia had their back against the wall as they were reduced to 227 for 8 but Cummins-Lyon ensured no further setback for the visitors. Now,&nbsp;the ex-English batter feels they were rewarded for playing like England during the match-winning stand.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>'Australia looked scared. They have more to work on'</strong></h2>

<p>"I'd go as far to say that Australia have more to work on," Bell said, as quoted by wisden.com. "After the first two days at Edgbaston, I was amazed how passive Australia were. It was like England used to play Ashes series in the really bad old days. Australia looked scared. I saw that in two examples."</p>

<p>"First, in the field setting for England's batters in the first innings. They had sweepers out on the off- and on-side after three overs. I'd never seen anything like it and as someone who has experienced the pressure cooker of an Ashes series - I won five out of seven - being afforded an easy option for a single as a batter like that would have been unheard of," Bell opined.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashes-stokes-england-make-some-funky-fields-and-suddenly-its-genius-paines-remark-after-edgbaston-test-607258">Ashes: 'Stokes, England make some funky fields and suddenly it's genius' - Paine's remark after Edgbaston Test</a></strong></p>

<p>Bell, a veteran of 118 Tests, further added, "As I said, I think England's intent has unnerved Australia and the only time they showed any aggression themselves was when Alex Carey was out in that extraordinary final innings. Basically, they only played in England's style when they knew they were beaten and they had nothing to lose. Psychologically, that is fascinating. Brendon McCullum will pick up on that."</p>

<p>England and Australia will meet in the second Test, at Lord's, which commences on June 28.</p>

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Australia beat England by two wickets in the opening Test of Ashes 2023 to go 1-0 up in the five-match series. Ben Stokes & Co. were on top in most parts of the contest in Edgbaston, Birmingham but could not get the last two wickets in Australia's 282-run chase on the final day as Usman Khawaja (65) and skipper Pat Cummins (44 not out) led the charge for their side.

Australia beat England by two wickets in the opening Test of Ashes 2023 to go 1-0 up in the five-match series. Ben Stokes & Co. were on top in most parts of the contest in Edgbaston, Birmingham but could not get the last two wickets in Australia's 282-run chase on the final day as Usman Khawaja (65) and skipper Pat Cummins (44 not out) led the charge for their side. Throughout the game, England's aggressive approach made heads turn and impressed many but they failed to close the game to go down eventually. Despite England conceding a 1-0 lead, former English batter Ian Bell believes Australia still have more to work on. Bell feels Australia looked scared during the Edgbaston Test and won only because they played in England's style, during the unbroken 55-run ninth-wicket stand between Cummins (44 not out) and Nathan Lyon (16*) in pursuit of 282. Australia had their back against the wall as they were reduced to 227 for 8 but Cummins-Lyon ensured no further setback for the visitors. Now, the ex-English batter feels they were rewarded for playing like England during the match-winning stand. 'Australia looked scared. They have more to work on' "I'd go as far to say that Australia have more to work on," Bell said, as quoted by wisden.com. "After the first two days at Edgbaston, I was amazed how passive Australia were. It was like England used to play Ashes series in the really bad old days. Australia looked scared. I saw that in two examples." "First, in the field setting for England's batters in the first innings. They had sweepers out on the off- and on-side after three overs. I'd never seen anything like it and as someone who has experienced the pressure cooker of an Ashes series - I won five out of seven - being afforded an easy option for a single as a batter like that would have been unheard of," Bell opined. Also Read: Ashes: 'Stokes, England make some funky fields and suddenly it's genius' - Paine's remark after Edgbaston Test Bell, a veteran of 118 Tests, further added, "As I said, I think England's intent has unnerved Australia and the only time they showed any aggression themselves was when Alex Carey was out in that extraordinary final innings. Basically, they only played in England's style when they knew they were beaten and they had nothing to lose. Psychologically, that is fascinating. Brendon McCullum will pick up on that." England and Australia will meet in the second Test, at Lord's, which commences on June 28. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

Ashes 2023: Bell claims 'Australia have more to work on' despite Cummins & Co.'s narrow win in Edgbaston

<p>Usman Khawaja was Australia's star performer in the first Test of Ashes 2023. In a closely-fought contest, England had the edge for most parts of the game. But Khawaja stood tall for the visitors with brilliant knocks of 141 and 65 as Pat Cummins &amp; Co. held their nerves to win by two wickets and go 1-0 up in the five-match Test series. Opting to bat first, Ben Stokes-led England declared at 393-8, with Joe Root unbeaten on 118, before Khawaja's sublime 141 took the Aussies to 386 all-out. With a seven-run lead, England were dismissed for 273 as they set a challenging 282-run target.</p>

<p>Khawaja got dismissed for 65 in the final session as Australia were reduced to 209 for 7 before an unbroken 55-run ninth-wicket stand skipper Cummins (44 not out) and Nathan Lyon (16 not out) took the Aussies home. Now, the 36-year-old dwelled on Australia's epic win and feels players 'being treated like adults after a long time' in the team environment has helped make a difference.</p>

<h2><strong>'If you are letting the team down in any way, that's on you'</strong></h2>

<p>"It's hard to quantify it (in the wins), but I think everything around that is being done with the team, with Pat and Andrew McDonald in terms of just cutting out the fluff. Cutting out the box-ticking stuff. Really stripping down the game, saying what's important, what do we think is important?" Khawaja told AAP.</p>

<p>"Even warm-ups every morning now are optional, do whatever you need to. That kind of stuff empowers players. It's empowered us. We take onus on ourselves. At the end of the day, you are responsible for your own performance because that in itself impacts the team. If you are letting the team down in any way, that's on you," the Aussie opener opined.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashes-2023-england-focused-on-entertaining-more-than-winning-1st-test-says-geoffrey-boycott-607345">Ashes 2023: England focused on entertaining more than winning 1st Test, says Geoffrey Boycott</a></strong></p>

<p>"We are all professionals and adults here and think it's the first time for a long time that we've really been treated like adults and that's made a big difference," Khawaja added.</p>

<p>Khawaja's comments come a year after Australia's former head coach Justin Langer's resignation. While Australia enjoyed good success under Langer, he didn't have a smooth ride with the national team, with many raising concerns over his strict approach. In&nbsp;a documentary, Khawaja stated that players were afraid of Langer during Ashes 2019. Since his exit, Andrew McDonald has taken over and by Khawaja's recent admission, it seems the Australian players are now in a much better space in the dressing room.</p>

<p>Ashes 2023 edition's second Test kicks off on June 28 at Lord's. Khawaja-starrer Australia will look to go 2-0 up versus England and get closer to retaining the urn.</p>

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Usman Khawaja was Australia's star performer in the first Test of Ashes 2023. In a closely-fought contest, England had the edge for most parts of the game. But Khawaja stood tall for the visitors with brilliant knocks of 141 and 65 as Pat Cummins & Co.

Usman Khawaja was Australia's star performer in the first Test of Ashes 2023. In a closely-fought contest, England had the edge for most parts of the game. But Khawaja stood tall for the visitors with brilliant knocks of 141 and 65 as Pat Cummins & Co. held their nerves to win by two wickets and go 1-0 up in the five-match Test series. Opting to bat first, Ben Stokes-led England declared at 393-8, with Joe Root unbeaten on 118, before Khawaja's sublime 141 took the Aussies to 386 all-out. With a seven-run lead, England were dismissed for 273 as they set a challenging 282-run target. Khawaja got dismissed for 65 in the final session as Australia were reduced to 209 for 7 before an unbroken 55-run ninth-wicket stand skipper Cummins (44 not out) and Nathan Lyon (16 not out) took the Aussies home. Now, the 36-year-old dwelled on Australia's epic win and feels players 'being treated like adults after a long time' in the team environment has helped make a difference. 'If you are letting the team down in any way, that's on you' "It's hard to quantify it (in the wins), but I think everything around that is being done with the team, with Pat and Andrew McDonald in terms of just cutting out the fluff. Cutting out the box-ticking stuff. Really stripping down the game, saying what's important, what do we think is important?" Khawaja told AAP. "Even warm-ups every morning now are optional, do whatever you need to. That kind of stuff empowers players. It's empowered us. We take onus on ourselves. At the end of the day, you are responsible for your own performance because that in itself impacts the team. If you are letting the team down in any way, that's on you," the Aussie opener opined. Also read: Ashes 2023: England focused on entertaining more than winning 1st Test, says Geoffrey Boycott "We are all professionals and adults here and think it's the first time for a long time that we've really been treated like adults and that's made a big difference," Khawaja added. Khawaja's comments come a year after Australia's former head coach Justin Langer's resignation. While Australia enjoyed good success under Langer, he didn't have a smooth ride with the national team, with many raising concerns over his strict approach. In a documentary, Khawaja stated that players were afraid of Langer during Ashes 2019. Since his exit, Andrew McDonald has taken over and by Khawaja's recent admission, it seems the Australian players are now in a much better space in the dressing room. Ashes 2023 edition's second Test kicks off on June 28 at Lord's. Khawaja-starrer Australia will look to go 2-0 up versus England and get closer to retaining the urn. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

Ashes 2023 | Being treated like adults by Australia team management has made a difference: Usman Khawaja

<p>England lost the Edgbaston Test by two wickets as Australia gained a 1-0 lead in Ashes 2023. Day 5 of the first Test, on Tuesday (June 20), saw a delayed start due to rain. Australia resumed at 107 for 3, needing another 174 runs for a win. While England reduced them to 227 for 8, skipper Pat Cummins (44 not out) and Nathan Lyon's unbeaten 16 ensured the visitors edged past Ben Stokes &amp; Co. in an absolute thriller at Edgbaston, Birmingham to go 1-0 up in Ashes 2023.</p>

<p>After the thrilling tie, former Australian captain Ricky Ponting questioned England's attacking style of play. Ben Stokes &amp; Co. opted to bat first and declared at 393 for 8 despite Joe Root's 118. While they managed to attain a seven-run lead, many have questioned their declaration. Further, England kept on attacking despite in their second essay and paid the price as they were dismissed for 273, setting a 282-run target for Australia which they chased with two wickets to spare. Thus, Ponting has questioned England's approach and said 'is it going to hold up in an Ashes series'?</p>

<h2><strong>'There is more than one way to skin a cat'</strong></h2>

<p>“I think England have got the most questions to answer. Their style of play, is it going to hold up in an Ashes series?” Ponting said on&nbsp;<i>Sky Sports</i>. “By no means am I saying that England’s method is wrong, I have loved watching them play, but it just goes to show there is more than one way to skin a cat."</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/no-idea-pat-cummins-epic-response-on-2019-headingley-loss-after-australia-conquer-edgbaston-606822">'No idea....': Pat Cummins' epic response on 2019 Headingley loss after Australia conquer Edgbaston</a></strong></p>

<p>“This is a long and hard game. Australia’s method has stood up and it has worked. I want this series to be played the same way and I know Ben and Brendon will play the same way, which adds even more to next week,” the Aussie legend added.</p>

<p>Despite England's loss, captain Stokes backed his declaration call on the opening day and stated that he is proud of the fight shown and entertainment provided by his side in the opening Test, indicating they won't back down from their aggressive approach in the remainder of the series. "A loss is a loss, we said we are going to keep playing this way. This is the way we will continue playing, going hard at Australia, taking certain decisions that feel right," Stokes revealed at the post-match presentation.</p>

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England lost the Edgbaston Test by two wickets as Australia gained a 1-0 lead in Ashes 2023. Day 5 of the first Test, on Tuesday (June 20), saw a delayed start due to rain.

England lost the Edgbaston Test by two wickets as Australia gained a 1-0 lead in Ashes 2023. Day 5 of the first Test, on Tuesday (June 20), saw a delayed start due to rain. Australia resumed at 107 for 3, needing another 174 runs for a win. While England reduced them to 227 for 8, skipper Pat Cummins (44 not out) and Nathan Lyon's unbeaten 16 ensured the visitors edged past Ben Stokes & Co. in an absolute thriller at Edgbaston, Birmingham to go 1-0 up in Ashes 2023. After the thrilling tie, former Australian captain Ricky Ponting questioned England's attacking style of play. Ben Stokes & Co. opted to bat first and declared at 393 for 8 despite Joe Root's 118. While they managed to attain a seven-run lead, many have questioned their declaration. Further, England kept on attacking despite in their second essay and paid the price as they were dismissed for 273, setting a 282-run target for Australia which they chased with two wickets to spare. Thus, Ponting has questioned England's approach and said 'is it going to hold up in an Ashes series'? 'There is more than one way to skin a cat' “I think England have got the most questions to answer. Their style of play, is it going to hold up in an Ashes series?” Ponting said on Sky Sports. “By no means am I saying that England’s method is wrong, I have loved watching them play, but it just goes to show there is more than one way to skin a cat." Also Read: 'No idea....': Pat Cummins' epic response on 2019 Headingley loss after Australia conquer Edgbaston “This is a long and hard game. Australia’s method has stood up and it has worked. I want this series to be played the same way and I know Ben and Brendon will play the same way, which adds even more to next week,” the Aussie legend added. Despite England's loss, captain Stokes backed his declaration call on the opening day and stated that he is proud of the fight shown and entertainment provided by his side in the opening Test, indicating they won't back down from their aggressive approach in the remainder of the series. "A loss is a loss, we said we are going to keep playing this way. This is the way we will continue playing, going hard at Australia, taking certain decisions that feel right," Stokes revealed at the post-match presentation. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

'Is it going to hold up?' Ricky Ponting questions England's 'style of play' after Edgbaston thriller

<p>England and Australia played a game for ages in Edgbaston but the teams paid the price for the entertainment they produced. The teams were docked two points each along with 40 per cent match fees of all the players. The docked points will reflect in their tally of the World Test Championship (WTC) cycle of 2023-25.</p>

<p>Match referee Andy Pycroft, after the match, which Australia won by two wickets, reprimanded both teams. As per the International Cricket Council (ICC) rules, players get docked 20 per cent of their match fee for each over short. The teams were found two overs short after considering the allowance time to complete the overs.</p>

<p>After taking the docked points into account, England stand at minus two while Australia stand at 10 after getting 12 points for their win in the current WTC cycle.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/is-it-going-to-hold-up-ricky-ponting-questions-englands-style-of-play-after-edgbaston-thriller-606880">Ricky Ponting questions England's 'style of play' after Edgbaston thriller</a></p>

<h2>Australia equalize Edgbaston 2005 score</h2>

<p>England and Australia had played a thriller on the same ground in the 2005 Ashes as well which the hosts had won by the barest of the margins - two runs to be exact. Needing 174 runs on the final day, the game in 2023 also had the same vibes about it.</p>

<p>Australia looked ahead at tea after the morning session got washed out. English skipper Ben Stokes then took the wicket of Man of the Match Usman Khawaja to break the game open. With Moeen Ali being injured, Joe Root was given the ball and he obliged with the wicket of Alex Carey.</p>

<p>Skipper Patrick Cummins and Nathan Lyon then added 55 runs for the ninth wicket as Australia held their nerves and went on to win the first Test by two wickets.</p>

<h2>The frantic final hour</h2>

<p>The new ball was available to England but they decided not to take it. The move, at first, gave England the wicket of Carey but Cummins then decided to turn on the heat. Needing 51 runs in the final 15 overs (maximum possible), Cummins hit Root for two sixes in the first of those overs, bringing down the equation to 36.</p>

<p>Lyon was dropped in the very next over as Stokes couldn't latch onto a catch despite his superhuman effort. The Aussie pair then played relatively calmly even as the new ball zipped past their edge on more than a couple of occasions.</p>

<p>An edge off a short Ollie Robinson delivery, which seemed to get Australia one run out three needed, was pushed to the boundary at third man, giving Australia a famous win.</p>

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England and Australia played a game for ages in Edgbaston but the teams paid the price for the entertainment they produced. The teams were docked two points each along with 40 per cent match fees of all the players.

England and Australia played a game for ages in Edgbaston but the teams paid the price for the entertainment they produced. The teams were docked two points each along with 40 per cent match fees of all the players. The docked points will reflect in their tally of the World Test Championship (WTC) cycle of 2023-25. Match referee Andy Pycroft, after the match, which Australia won by two wickets, reprimanded both teams. As per the International Cricket Council (ICC) rules, players get docked 20 per cent of their match fee for each over short. The teams were found two overs short after considering the allowance time to complete the overs. After taking the docked points into account, England stand at minus two while Australia stand at 10 after getting 12 points for their win in the current WTC cycle. Also Read: Ricky Ponting questions England's 'style of play' after Edgbaston thriller Australia equalize Edgbaston 2005 score England and Australia had played a thriller on the same ground in the 2005 Ashes as well which the hosts had won by the barest of the margins - two runs to be exact. Needing 174 runs on the final day, the game in 2023 also had the same vibes about it. Australia looked ahead at tea after the morning session got washed out. English skipper Ben Stokes then took the wicket of Man of the Match Usman Khawaja to break the game open. With Moeen Ali being injured, Joe Root was given the ball and he obliged with the wicket of Alex Carey. Skipper Patrick Cummins and Nathan Lyon then added 55 runs for the ninth wicket as Australia held their nerves and went on to win the first Test by two wickets. The frantic final hour The new ball was available to England but they decided not to take it. The move, at first, gave England the wicket of Carey but Cummins then decided to turn on the heat. Needing 51 runs in the final 15 overs (maximum possible), Cummins hit Root for two sixes in the first of those overs, bringing down the equation to 36. Lyon was dropped in the very next over as Stokes couldn't latch onto a catch despite his superhuman effort. The Aussie pair then played relatively calmly even as the new ball zipped past their edge on more than a couple of occasions. An edge off a short Ollie Robinson delivery, which seemed to get Australia one run out three needed, was pushed to the boundary at third man, giving Australia a famous win. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Ashes 2023: England, Australia reprimanded for slow over rate in Edgbaston

<p>Australia skipper Patrick Cummins took his team home in the first Ashes Test by two wickets in another thriller at Edgbaston. The fans across the world couldn't keep calm after Cummins got the winning runs off a misfield and neither could the Aussie players.</p>

<p>Cummins added 55 runs for the ninth wicket with Nathan Lyon as the Aussies held off a mighty English effort led by Ben Stokes' wicket of Man of the Match Usman Khawaja. Have a look at the tweets here:</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">PATRICK CUMMINS YOU KING 👑</p>
— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketcomau/status/1671222164752564236?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 20, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Test cricket is like a beautifully sung raga. You live the many moods of it.</p>
— Harsha Bhogle (@bhogleharsha) <a href="https://twitter.com/bhogleharsha/status/1671226444142485505?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 20, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">An old-fashioned TEST will never be out of fashion ❤️ <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ashes?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ashes</a></p>
— Mohammad Kaif (@MohammadKaif) <a href="https://twitter.com/MohammadKaif/status/1671210850646884375?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 20, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">AN ICONIC PICTURE.<br />
<br />
PAT CUMMINS IS THE HERO. <a href="https://t.co/D21lZiSjUX">pic.twitter.com/D21lZiSjUX</a></p>
— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) <a href="https://twitter.com/CricCrazyJohns/status/1671223653768499200?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 20, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">This is like watching Gabba chase without Rishabh Pant's knock.</p>
— Silly Point (@FarziCricketer) <a href="https://twitter.com/FarziCricketer/status/1671205271400591386?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 20, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>Ben Stokes sends Edgbaston into frenzy</strong></h2>

<p>Australia were looking easy at 209/6 when Ben Stokes decided to bowl for the first time in 2nd innings. The English skipper bowled a superb slow leg-cutter delivery on which Khawaja chopped on and Edgbaston erupted. The Aussie opener, who had scored 141 in the first innings, scored 65 in second as well.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-french-mid-fielder-ngolo-kante-latest-to-saudi-joins-al-ittihad-606759">French mid-fielder N'Golo Kante latest to go Saudi, joins Al Ittihad</a></p>

<p>Cummins joined Alex Carey on the crease and the duo added 18 runs before Joe Root held onto a sensational return catch to dismiss Carey. England were all over Australia and almost got Lyon out on a short ball shortly after. Ben Stokes, who made a superhuman effort, couldn't hold on to the catch at mid-wicket as Lyon survived.</p>

<p>The Aussie pair then played each ball according to merit as England kept looking for a breakthrough which never came.</p>

<h2><strong>The frantic final hour</strong></h2>

<p>The new ball was available to England but they decided not to take it. The move, at first, gave England the wicket of Carey but Cummins then decided to turn on the heat. Needing 51 runs in final 15 overs (maximum possible), Cummins hit Root for two sixes in the first of those overs, bringing down equation to 36.</p>

<p>Lyon was dropped in the very next over as Stokes couldn't latch onto a catch. The Aussie pair then played relatively calmly even as the new ball zipped past their edge on more than a couple of occasions.</p>

<p>An edge off a short Ollie Robinson delivery, which seemed to get Australia one run out of three needed, was pushed to boundary at third man. The Australian supporters, before whom the winning runs were given, erupted in joy and so did the Aussie dressing room after conquering Edgbaston by two wickets.</p>

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Australia skipper Patrick Cummins took his team home in the first Ashes Test by two wickets in another thriller at Edgbaston. The fans across the world couldn't keep calm after Cummins got the winning runs off a misfield and neither could the Aussie players.

Australia skipper Patrick Cummins took his team home in the first Ashes Test by two wickets in another thriller at Edgbaston. The fans across the world couldn't keep calm after Cummins got the winning runs off a misfield and neither could the Aussie players. Cummins added 55 runs for the ninth wicket with Nathan Lyon as the Aussies held off a mighty English effort led by Ben Stokes' wicket of Man of the Match Usman Khawaja. Have a look at the tweets here: PATRICK CUMMINS YOU KING 👑 — cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) June 20, 2023 × Test cricket is like a beautifully sung raga. You live the many moods of it. — Harsha Bhogle (@bhogleharsha) June 20, 2023 × An old-fashioned TEST will never be out of fashion ❤️ #Ashes — Mohammad Kaif (@MohammadKaif) June 20, 2023 × AN ICONIC PICTURE. PAT CUMMINS IS THE HERO. pic.twitter.com/D21lZiSjUX — Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) June 20, 2023 × This is like watching Gabba chase without Rishabh Pant's knock. — Silly Point (@FarziCricketer) June 20, 2023 × Ben Stokes sends Edgbaston into frenzy Australia were looking easy at 209/6 when Ben Stokes decided to bowl for the first time in 2nd innings. The English skipper bowled a superb slow leg-cutter delivery on which Khawaja chopped on and Edgbaston erupted. The Aussie opener, who had scored 141 in the first innings, scored 65 in second as well. Also Read: French mid-fielder N'Golo Kante latest to go Saudi, joins Al Ittihad Cummins joined Alex Carey on the crease and the duo added 18 runs before Joe Root held onto a sensational return catch to dismiss Carey. England were all over Australia and almost got Lyon out on a short ball shortly after. Ben Stokes, who made a superhuman effort, couldn't hold on to the catch at mid-wicket as Lyon survived. The Aussie pair then played each ball according to merit as England kept looking for a breakthrough which never came. The frantic final hour The new ball was available to England but they decided not to take it. The move, at first, gave England the wicket of Carey but Cummins then decided to turn on the heat. Needing 51 runs in final 15 overs (maximum possible), Cummins hit Root for two sixes in the first of those overs, bringing down equation to 36. Lyon was dropped in the very next over as Stokes couldn't latch onto a catch. The Aussie pair then played relatively calmly even as the new ball zipped past their edge on more than a couple of occasions. An edge off a short Ollie Robinson delivery, which seemed to get Australia one run out of three needed, was pushed to boundary at third man. The Australian supporters, before whom the winning runs were given, erupted in joy and so did the Aussie dressing room after conquering Edgbaston by two wickets. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Ashes 2023: Twitter reacts as Australia beat England in Edgbaston thriller by two wickets

<p>England and Australia produced a thrilling contest in the Ashes 2023 opener at Edgbaston, Birmingham. The contest was decided in the final few overs as Pat Cummins (44 not out) and Nathan Lyon's (16 not out)&nbsp;unbroken 55-run ninth-wicket stand propelled Australia to a narrow two-wicket win in pursuit of 282 on Tuesday evening (June 20). England were on top in most parts and having reduced the Aussies to 227 for 8, they were certainly on the cusp of a win but failed to get the last two breakthroughs.</p>

<p>Opting to bat first, Ben Stokes-led England declared at 393 for 8 despite Joe Root being unbeaten on 118. In reply, Usman Khawaja's 141 took Australia to 386 all-out, handing a slender seven-run lead to the hosts. England were dismissed for 273 in their second essay as they set a challenging 282-run target for Cummins &amp; Co., which they achieved in the final moments despite their back against the wall. Thus, skipper Cummins, who hit the winning runs, was asked about the Headingley Test defeat of Ashes 2019 -- where Australia failed to defend 359 despite reducing England to 286 for 9, and he gave an epic response. Back then, Stokes (135 not out) hit the winning rusn off Cummins' delivery.</p>

<p>When asked if the Edgbaston win serves as redemption for the Headingley heartbreak, Cummins said at the post-match presentation, "No idea what you’re talking about."</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/not-going-to-ben-stokes-backs-declaration-call-after-england-lose-edgbaston-test-to-australia-606798">'Not going to...': Ben Stokes backs declaration call after England lose Edgbaston Test to Australia</a></strong></p>

<p>Cummins also opened up on the contrasting styles of play between England and Australia in the Edgbaston Test. "Both teams spoke about playing their styles, we played to our strengths and we don’t know which is better, but makes for good entertainment," he stated.</p>

<p>The second Test will kick off on June 28 at the iconic Lord's Cricket Stadium, London. For now, Australia will rejoice having taken a 1-0 lead in the five-match series.</p>

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England and Australia produced a thrilling contest in the Ashes 2023 opener at Edgbaston, Birmingham. The contest was decided in the final few overs as Pat Cummins (44 not out) and Nathan Lyon's (16 not out) unbroken 55-run ninth-wicket stand propelled Australia to a narrow two-wicket win in pursuit of 282 on Tuesday evening (June 20).

England and Australia produced a thrilling contest in the Ashes 2023 opener at Edgbaston, Birmingham. The contest was decided in the final few overs as Pat Cummins (44 not out) and Nathan Lyon's (16 not out) unbroken 55-run ninth-wicket stand propelled Australia to a narrow two-wicket win in pursuit of 282 on Tuesday evening (June 20). England were on top in most parts and having reduced the Aussies to 227 for 8, they were certainly on the cusp of a win but failed to get the last two breakthroughs. Opting to bat first, Ben Stokes-led England declared at 393 for 8 despite Joe Root being unbeaten on 118. In reply, Usman Khawaja's 141 took Australia to 386 all-out, handing a slender seven-run lead to the hosts. England were dismissed for 273 in their second essay as they set a challenging 282-run target for Cummins & Co., which they achieved in the final moments despite their back against the wall. Thus, skipper Cummins, who hit the winning runs, was asked about the Headingley Test defeat of Ashes 2019 -- where Australia failed to defend 359 despite reducing England to 286 for 9, and he gave an epic response. Back then, Stokes (135 not out) hit the winning rusn off Cummins' delivery. When asked if the Edgbaston win serves as redemption for the Headingley heartbreak, Cummins said at the post-match presentation, "No idea what you’re talking about." Also Read: 'Not going to...': Ben Stokes backs declaration call after England lose Edgbaston Test to Australia Cummins also opened up on the contrasting styles of play between England and Australia in the Edgbaston Test. "Both teams spoke about playing their styles, we played to our strengths and we don’t know which is better, but makes for good entertainment," he stated. The second Test will kick off on June 28 at the iconic Lord's Cricket Stadium, London. For now, Australia will rejoice having taken a 1-0 lead in the five-match series. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

'No idea....': Pat Cummins' epic response on 2019 Headingley loss after Australia conquer Edgbaston

<p>England and Australia produced a humdinger of a Test in Edgbaston, Birmingham before Pat Cummins &amp; Co. edged past the hosts by two wickets on the final day, on Tuesday (June 20), of the Ashes 2023 opener. Opting to bat first, England rode on Joe Root's unbeaten 118 to declare their first innings at 393 for 8. In reply, Australia posted 386 all-out courtesy of Usman Khawaja's 141 before England set up a challenging 282-run target. The final day's play saw a delayed start before the game went down to the wire but Khawaja (65), Cummins (44 not out) and Nathan Lyon (16 not out) took the Aussies home.</p>

<p>While England's Bazball approach entertained one and all throughout the contest and kept viewers at the edge of their seat, English captain Ben Stokes' first-innings declaration became a talking point after they went down by two wickets on Tuesday evening.</p>

<h2><strong>'Not going to be looking back on this game as 'what ifs'</strong></h2>

<p>Stokes backed his declaration call decision on the opening day, made when a well-set Root was batting on 118 along with two wickets in hand. He said after the game, "If we were in the same position? Yeah. I would like to be 398 for 6 [sic] with 20 minutes left. That would be great."</p>

<section itemprop="articleBody">
<p>"I could also turn it around and say, 'if we didn't declare, would we have got the excitement that we did at the end of day five?' I'm not a hundred per cent sure, but I'm not going to be looking back on this game as 'what ifs'... the reality is, we just didn't manage to get over the line," Stokes further added.</p>
</section>

<section itemprop="articleBody"><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashes-2023-twitter-reacts-as-australia-beat-england-in-edgbaston-thriller-by-two-wickets-606767">Ashes 2023: Twitter reacts as Australia beat England in Edgbaston thriller by two wickets</a></strong></section>

<p>Despite England's early declaration on Day 1, they kept resorting to their exciting and aggressive style of cricket and were on top in most parts of the game. However, Cummins-led Australia never looked out of sorts and kept coming back before pulling off a heist in the final hour courtesy of an unbroken 55-run ninth-wicket stand between skipper Cummins and Lyon.</p>

<p>While one can point fingers at England's declaration, they did miss a chance to not dismiss Australia early in their first essay after reducing them to 220 for 5. Also, England should have ideally set a target beyond 300 but Cummins &amp; Co. did well to dismiss them for 273.</p>

<p>The second Test commences on June 28 (Wednesday) at the iconic Lord's Cricket Stadium, London.</p>

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England and Australia produced a humdinger of a Test in Edgbaston, Birmingham before Pat Cummins & Co. edged past the hosts by two wickets on the final day, on Tuesday (June 20), of the Ashes 2023 opener.

England and Australia produced a humdinger of a Test in Edgbaston, Birmingham before Pat Cummins & Co. edged past the hosts by two wickets on the final day, on Tuesday (June 20), of the Ashes 2023 opener. Opting to bat first, England rode on Joe Root's unbeaten 118 to declare their first innings at 393 for 8. In reply, Australia posted 386 all-out courtesy of Usman Khawaja's 141 before England set up a challenging 282-run target. The final day's play saw a delayed start before the game went down to the wire but Khawaja (65), Cummins (44 not out) and Nathan Lyon (16 not out) took the Aussies home. While England's Bazball approach entertained one and all throughout the contest and kept viewers at the edge of their seat, English captain Ben Stokes' first-innings declaration became a talking point after they went down by two wickets on Tuesday evening. 'Not going to be looking back on this game as 'what ifs' Stokes backed his declaration call decision on the opening day, made when a well-set Root was batting on 118 along with two wickets in hand. He said after the game, "If we were in the same position? Yeah. I would like to be 398 for 6 [sic] with 20 minutes left. That would be great." "I could also turn it around and say, 'if we didn't declare, would we have got the excitement that we did at the end of day five?' I'm not a hundred per cent sure, but I'm not going to be looking back on this game as 'what ifs'... the reality is, we just didn't manage to get over the line," Stokes further added. Also Read: Ashes 2023: Twitter reacts as Australia beat England in Edgbaston thriller by two wickets Despite England's early declaration on Day 1, they kept resorting to their exciting and aggressive style of cricket and were on top in most parts of the game. However, Cummins-led Australia never looked out of sorts and kept coming back before pulling off a heist in the final hour courtesy of an unbroken 55-run ninth-wicket stand between skipper Cummins and Lyon. While one can point fingers at England's declaration, they did miss a chance to not dismiss Australia early in their first essay after reducing them to 220 for 5. Also, England should have ideally set a target beyond 300 but Cummins & Co. did well to dismiss them for 273. The second Test commences on June 28 (Wednesday) at the iconic Lord's Cricket Stadium, London. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

'Not going to...': Ben Stokes backs declaration call after England lose Edgbaston Test to Australia

<p>Ben Stokes was in awe of Zak Crawley as the young England batter stunned his teammates on Friday, June 16 as he kick-started the Ashes 2023 with a four. Crawley, playing in his 35th Test match was at his fluent best as the hosts started on the front foot at Edgbaston in Birmingham against the Aussies. The four sparked a reaction from Stokes and Crawley’s other teammates as the Ashes kickstarted with a bang.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">😅<br />
<br />
We were all Stokesy there...<br />
<br />
Live clips/Scorecard: <a href="https://t.co/TZMO0eJDwY">https://t.co/TZMO0eJDwY</a> <a href="https://t.co/rUEOIO7onJ">pic.twitter.com/rUEOIO7onJ</a></p>
— England Cricket (@englandcricket) <a href="https://twitter.com/englandcricket/status/1669647748533202945?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 16, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>What happened at the start?</strong></h2>

<p>After opting to bat first in the contest, England sent Crawley and Ben Duckett to open the innings on the Day 1 of the Edgbaston Test. Ben Stokes sitting in the balcony of the famous ground was then left stunned as Crawley smashed Pat Cummins through the covers for a four. England has the best possible start to the series as they started on the front foot. The Edgbaston crowd was also on its feet as they witnessed a special start to the series.</p>

<p>The joy was short-lived as the Baggy Greens then made a good comeback as returning Josh Hazlewood was on the money after he scalped Ben Duckett (12) on the fourth ball of the fourth over. Crawley then partnered Ollie Pope for the next hour and so as he brought up his ninth Test fifty in the 19th over. His 61-run innings came to an end on the last ball of the first session as England ended at 125/3 after 27.1 overs.</p>

<p>Crawley along with Pope stitched a partnership of 70 runs for the second wicket as they gave the Aussies a hard time before their mini comeback.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashes-2023-players-to-wear-black-armbands-observe-silence-in-honour-of-nottingham-attack-victims-605013">Ashes 2023: Players to wear black armbands, observe silence in honour of Nottingham attack victims</a></p>

<h2><strong>England look for redemption</strong></h2>

<p>Having lost the Ashes 0-4 Down Under in 2021-22, England will be out for redemption as they try to get the better of the Aussies. England have not won the Ashes since 2-15 and will to end their drought of the Ashes, where they also won the ODI and the T20 World Cup. They will have history on their side as the Ashes has not been won by a host nation for more than a decade.</p>

<p>The last time the Ashes was won by an away team was in 2011 while the last time Australia won the Ashes on English soil was in 2001. Currently, England are also enjoying a purple patch of form having won 11 matches in their last 13 matches under the captaincy of Ben Stokes, who took over as the skipper in June 2022.&nbsp;</p>

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Ben Stokes was in awe of Zak Crawley as the young England batter stunned his teammates on Friday, June 16 as he kick-started the Ashes 2023 with a four. Crawley, playing in his 35th Test match was at his fluent best as the hosts started on the front foot at Edgbaston in Birmingham against the Aussies.

Ben Stokes was in awe of Zak Crawley as the young England batter stunned his teammates on Friday, June 16 as he kick-started the Ashes 2023 with a four. Crawley, playing in his 35th Test match was at his fluent best as the hosts started on the front foot at Edgbaston in Birmingham against the Aussies. The four sparked a reaction from Stokes and Crawley’s other teammates as the Ashes kickstarted with a bang. 😅 We were all Stokesy there... Live clips/Scorecard: https://t.co/TZMO0eJDwY pic.twitter.com/rUEOIO7onJ — England Cricket (@englandcricket) June 16, 2023 × What happened at the start? After opting to bat first in the contest, England sent Crawley and Ben Duckett to open the innings on the Day 1 of the Edgbaston Test. Ben Stokes sitting in the balcony of the famous ground was then left stunned as Crawley smashed Pat Cummins through the covers for a four. England has the best possible start to the series as they started on the front foot. The Edgbaston crowd was also on its feet as they witnessed a special start to the series. The joy was short-lived as the Baggy Greens then made a good comeback as returning Josh Hazlewood was on the money after he scalped Ben Duckett (12) on the fourth ball of the fourth over. Crawley then partnered Ollie Pope for the next hour and so as he brought up his ninth Test fifty in the 19th over. His 61-run innings came to an end on the last ball of the first session as England ended at 125/3 after 27.1 overs. Crawley along with Pope stitched a partnership of 70 runs for the second wicket as they gave the Aussies a hard time before their mini comeback. ALSO READ | Ashes 2023: Players to wear black armbands, observe silence in honour of Nottingham attack victims England look for redemption Having lost the Ashes 0-4 Down Under in 2021-22, England will be out for redemption as they try to get the better of the Aussies. England have not won the Ashes since 2-15 and will to end their drought of the Ashes, where they also won the ODI and the T20 World Cup. They will have history on their side as the Ashes has not been won by a host nation for more than a decade. The last time the Ashes was won by an away team was in 2011 while the last time Australia won the Ashes on English soil was in 2001. Currently, England are also enjoying a purple patch of form having won 11 matches in their last 13 matches under the captaincy of Ben Stokes, who took over as the skipper in June 2022. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

WATCH | Zak Crawley leaves Ben Stokes and Co STUNNED after hitting first-ball four in Ashes

<p>Winning the Ashes for the first time since 2015 will be on the minds of the England cricket team as the first Test in underway at Edgbaston. The Ashes, over the years, has produced some incredible moments and enticing duels. The face-off between David Warner and Stuart Broad has been one such face off which the cricket fans are very much looking forward to. Ahead of the Test series opener against Australia at the Edgbaston, England Test skipper Ben Stokes came up with a cheeky Ravichandran Ashwin reference while speaking on the issue. While talking about Broad’s selection in the playing XI, Stokes reportedly said, “It’s just one of those things – like Ashwin against me. Broady has been an unbelievable performer over many years. What the Ashes bring, it’s so hard to look past someone like that.”</p>

<h2><strong>David Warner vs Stuart Broad</strong></h2>

<p>David Warner faced difficulties in dealing with Stuart Broad in the 2019 series. The English pacer had dismissed Warner on seven occasions in 10 innings during that series. As for Ashwin's name, it's no surprise why Stokes mentioned the India spinner in the pre-match presser. The England Test captain has fallen prey to Ashwin 11 times in Tests and four times in the 50-over format.</p>

<h2><strong>David Warner's form</strong></h2>

<p>Coming back to the Ashes, David Warner’s dismal form in Tests has been a point of concern. The Aussie opening batter did play a fine knock of 43 in the first innings of the World Test Championship (WTC) final against India. But in the second innings, the 36-year-old was dismissed for just one run.</p>

<p>Australia captain Pat Cummins also recently shared his opinion on the opening batter. "I'm sure he's thought about it a lot over the last couple of years hoping to get another crack at it. Davey (David Warner) will have all his plans in place. I'm sure you'll see a bit more of an aggressive Davey than what you saw in 2019 and he's itching to get out there and have another chance at it," Cummins was quoted as saying by news agency IANS.</p>

<p>In red-ball cricket, David Warner has so far represented Australia on 104 occasions. The New South Wales-born has till now scored 8,202 runs at an average of 45.31. The opener has 25 centuries and 34 half centuries under his belt in Test cricket. Australia will come into the Ashes series having won their maiden WTC title. In the last Ashes, the Aussies had decimated the English side by a convincing margin of 4-0.</p>


Winning the Ashes for the first time since 2015 will be on the minds of the England cricket team as the first Test in underway at Edgbaston. The Ashes, over the years, has produced some incredible moments and enticing duels.

Winning the Ashes for the first time since 2015 will be on the minds of the England cricket team as the first Test in underway at Edgbaston. The Ashes, over the years, has produced some incredible moments and enticing duels. The face-off between David Warner and Stuart Broad has been one such face off which the cricket fans are very much looking forward to. Ahead of the Test series opener against Australia at the Edgbaston, England Test skipper Ben Stokes came up with a cheeky Ravichandran Ashwin reference while speaking on the issue. While talking about Broad’s selection in the playing XI, Stokes reportedly said, “It’s just one of those things – like Ashwin against me. Broady has been an unbelievable performer over many years. What the Ashes bring, it’s so hard to look past someone like that.” David Warner vs Stuart Broad David Warner faced difficulties in dealing with Stuart Broad in the 2019 series. The English pacer had dismissed Warner on seven occasions in 10 innings during that series. As for Ashwin's name, it's no surprise why Stokes mentioned the India spinner in the pre-match presser. The England Test captain has fallen prey to Ashwin 11 times in Tests and four times in the 50-over format. David Warner's form Coming back to the Ashes, David Warner’s dismal form in Tests has been a point of concern. The Aussie opening batter did play a fine knock of 43 in the first innings of the World Test Championship (WTC) final against India. But in the second innings, the 36-year-old was dismissed for just one run. Australia captain Pat Cummins also recently shared his opinion on the opening batter. "I'm sure he's thought about it a lot over the last couple of years hoping to get another crack at it. Davey (David Warner) will have all his plans in place. I'm sure you'll see a bit more of an aggressive Davey than what you saw in 2019 and he's itching to get out there and have another chance at it," Cummins was quoted as saying by news agency IANS. In red-ball cricket, David Warner has so far represented Australia on 104 occasions. The New South Wales-born has till now scored 8,202 runs at an average of 45.31. The opener has 25 centuries and 34 half centuries under his belt in Test cricket. Australia will come into the Ashes series having won their maiden WTC title. In the last Ashes, the Aussies had decimated the English side by a convincing margin of 4-0.

Ashes 2023: Ben Stokes uses Ravichandran Ashwin's name to talk on this issue

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<p>Winning Ashes is never easy, be it at home or away, and with Australia holding an edge over England in the head-to-head record (34-32), they would fancy their chances this time after triumphing in the WTC Final against India on Sunday. As the high-octane series begins with the first Test in Edgbaston on June 16th, Australia captain Pat Cummins sets his sight on claiming the historic feat for his team for the first time in over two decades.</p>

<p>2001 was the last time Steve Waugh-led Australian team claimed the urn on English soil, and since then, none of the captains – be it the Pontings, Clarkes, Smiths and even Paines, could repeat the heroics. Under Pat Cummins, Australia will again push for the win, but knowing they will be up against the most-dangerous looking England’s Test unit ever, they are aware of the challenges.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/enjoyed-my-stint-in-ipl-but-playing-for-australia-comes-on-top-says-world-test-champion-mitchell-starc-603467">'Enjoyed my stint in IPL but playing for Australia comes on top,' says World Test Champion Mitchell Starc</a></p>

<p>Speaking to the media after helping his team clinch their maiden WTC Final on Sunday, Cummins said, "Whether we like it or not, Ashes series tend to define eras and teams," said Cummins as quoted by AFP. "An Ashes (in England) is bloody hard to win. It's been 20-odd years so it's not going to be easy. If we win, that is legacy-defining stuff."</p>

<h2>Oz begins Ashes prep with a win over India</h2>

<p>Upon landing in the UK for the extended away winter in late May, Australia began their Ashes preparation with a massive 209-run win over India in London. Cummins-led Australia was ahead in the game from day one, putting up 469 in the first innings and dismissing India on 296 in theirs. With them declaring on 270 for eight in their second innings, the Aussies gave India an improbable target of 444 to win the match.</p>

<p>While India got off to a decent start, they lost seven wickets in the first session on the final day, which resulted in them falling behind for the second straight time.</p>

<p>Embracing the moment, Cummins said, "I think we'll sit around in the changing rooms for a while and then we'll find a nice sunny English beer garden somewhere this afternoon to sit back and celebrate," said the 30-year-old fast bowler. "I know we've got a big series but we can worry about that in a couple days' time.</p>

<p>"You only get a few of these moments in your career where you can sit back, acknowledge a pretty special achievement, and this is one of these times," he added.</p>

<p><strong>Here is the Ashes schedule -</strong>&nbsp;</p>

<ul>
	<li>First Test (Edgbaston) - June 16 - June 20</li>
	<li>Second Test (Lord's) - June 28 - July 2</li>
	<li>Third Test (Clean Slate Headingley) - July 6 - July 10</li>
	<li>Fourth Test (Emirates Old Trafford) - July 19 - July 23</li>
	<li>Fifth Test (The Kia Oval) - July 27 - July 31</li>
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Winning Ashes is never easy, be it at home or away, and with Australia holding an edge over England in the head-to-head record (34-32), they would fancy their chances this time after triumphing in the WTC Final against India on Sunday.

Winning Ashes is never easy, be it at home or away, and with Australia holding an edge over England in the head-to-head record (34-32), they would fancy their chances this time after triumphing in the WTC Final against India on Sunday. As the high-octane series begins with the first Test in Edgbaston on June 16th, Australia captain Pat Cummins sets his sight on claiming the historic feat for his team for the first time in over two decades. 2001 was the last time Steve Waugh-led Australian team claimed the urn on English soil, and since then, none of the captains – be it the Pontings, Clarkes, Smiths and even Paines, could repeat the heroics. Under Pat Cummins, Australia will again push for the win, but knowing they will be up against the most-dangerous looking England’s Test unit ever, they are aware of the challenges. ALSO READ: 'Enjoyed my stint in IPL but playing for Australia comes on top,' says World Test Champion Mitchell Starc Speaking to the media after helping his team clinch their maiden WTC Final on Sunday, Cummins said, "Whether we like it or not, Ashes series tend to define eras and teams," said Cummins as quoted by AFP. "An Ashes (in England) is bloody hard to win. It's been 20-odd years so it's not going to be easy. If we win, that is legacy-defining stuff." Oz begins Ashes prep with a win over India Upon landing in the UK for the extended away winter in late May, Australia began their Ashes preparation with a massive 209-run win over India in London. Cummins-led Australia was ahead in the game from day one, putting up 469 in the first innings and dismissing India on 296 in theirs. With them declaring on 270 for eight in their second innings, the Aussies gave India an improbable target of 444 to win the match. While India got off to a decent start, they lost seven wickets in the first session on the final day, which resulted in them falling behind for the second straight time. Embracing the moment, Cummins said, "I think we'll sit around in the changing rooms for a while and then we'll find a nice sunny English beer garden somewhere this afternoon to sit back and celebrate," said the 30-year-old fast bowler. "I know we've got a big series but we can worry about that in a couple days' time. "You only get a few of these moments in your career where you can sit back, acknowledge a pretty special achievement, and this is one of these times," he added. Here is the Ashes schedule - First Test (Edgbaston) - June 16 - June 20 Second Test (Lord's) - June 28 - July 2 Third Test (Clean Slate Headingley) - July 6 - July 10 Fourth Test (Emirates Old Trafford) - July 19 - July 23 Fifth Test (The Kia Oval) - July 27 - July 31 WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

After claiming WTC Final, Pat Cummins sets sight on winning away Ashes for first time in over two decades

<p>Australia skipper Pat Cummins isn't willing to pick out which ICC trophy he likes the most - the 2015 ODI WC, T20 WC in 2021 or the WTC Final 2023. "It's probably like trying to pick your favourite kid," he said in response to the question after winning the WTC Final against India.</p>

<p>The skipper, who became one of the four players in history to win all the ICC trophies along with Steve Smith, David Warner and Mitchell Starc, was sure that Test cricket is the pinnacle for them.</p>

<p>"They all feel a little bit different," said Cummins about the trophies. "We were just talking about that. No doubt Test matches for us are our favourite format. It's the biggest challenge I think in every way. This competition pitting up against everyone in the world, it has got to be right up there," he added.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-odi-wc-india-vs-pakistan-on-october-15-final-in-ahmedabad-as-per-draft-schedule-report-603262">ICC ODI WC: India vs Pakistan on October 15, Final in Ahmedabad as per draft schedule - Report</a></p>

<p>The skipper also praised his team for having won everywhere in the world including an away victory each in Pakistan, India and Sri Lanka.</p>

<p>"I think that's one of the most satisfying bits," he said. "Obviously the win here, but to make it to the final, you have got to win everywhere in the world. I think this cycle was 20 Test matches. I think we might have only lost three or four out of the 20. The boys were fantastic the whole way through. We adapted well and that's what makes it so satisfying," Cummins added further.&nbsp;</p>

<p>With Australia set to face England in five days' time for the iconic Ashes Test series, Cummins said they are going to savour this victory for a bit before they move on the next series.</p>

<p>"It's been an amazing two years," he said. "We've had this final in the diary for a while. It's been something that we had been building up for, so it is something we are going to savour. I know we have got a big series but we can worry about that in a couple of days' time.</p>

<p>"You only get a few of these moments in your career where you can sit back, acknowledge a pretty special achievement and that's one of these times," said Cummins.<br />
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Australia skipper Pat Cummins isn't willing to pick out which ICC trophy he likes the most - the 2015 ODI WC, T20 WC in 2021 or the WTC Final 2023. "It's probably like trying to pick your favourite kid," he said in response to the question after winning the WTC Final against India.

Australia skipper Pat Cummins isn't willing to pick out which ICC trophy he likes the most - the 2015 ODI WC, T20 WC in 2021 or the WTC Final 2023. "It's probably like trying to pick your favourite kid," he said in response to the question after winning the WTC Final against India. The skipper, who became one of the four players in history to win all the ICC trophies along with Steve Smith, David Warner and Mitchell Starc, was sure that Test cricket is the pinnacle for them. "They all feel a little bit different," said Cummins about the trophies. "We were just talking about that. No doubt Test matches for us are our favourite format. It's the biggest challenge I think in every way. This competition pitting up against everyone in the world, it has got to be right up there," he added. Also Read: ICC ODI WC: India vs Pakistan on October 15, Final in Ahmedabad as per draft schedule - Report The skipper also praised his team for having won everywhere in the world including an away victory each in Pakistan, India and Sri Lanka. "I think that's one of the most satisfying bits," he said. "Obviously the win here, but to make it to the final, you have got to win everywhere in the world. I think this cycle was 20 Test matches. I think we might have only lost three or four out of the 20. The boys were fantastic the whole way through. We adapted well and that's what makes it so satisfying," Cummins added further. With Australia set to face England in five days' time for the iconic Ashes Test series, Cummins said they are going to savour this victory for a bit before they move on the next series. "It's been an amazing two years," he said. "We've had this final in the diary for a while. It's been something that we had been building up for, so it is something we are going to savour. I know we have got a big series but we can worry about that in a couple of days' time. "You only get a few of these moments in your career where you can sit back, acknowledge a pretty special achievement and that's one of these times," said Cummins. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

WTC Final: Australia skipper Pat Cummins opens up on 'pretty special achievement'

<p>Australia have stamped their authority on the World Test Championship (WTC) final after they dominated Day 2 of the Oval Test with both bat and ball on Thursday, June 8. After getting bowled out for 469, their bowlers did the trick with the ball and limited India to 151/5, with top-order batters Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli already back in the pavilion. As things stand, India still trail by 318 runs in the first innings and need 118 runs to avoid follow-on.</p>

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Like the opening day, Day 2 of the Ultimate Test has belonged to the Aussies 💪<br />
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Follow the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WTC23?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WTC23</a> Final 👉 <a href="https://t.co/wJHUyVnX0r">https://t.co/wJHUyVnX0r</a> <a href="https://t.co/3RRJJJh0Jo">pic.twitter.com/3RRJJJh0Jo</a></p>
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<h2><strong>India's collapse with bat</strong></h2>

<p>After bowling out Australia, the Indian team needed a good start to stay in the hunt of the Aussies, but things did not go according to plan for Rohit Sharma’s team. India lost the skipper on 15 on the final ball of the sixth over. Soon India lost Shubman Gill as he missed judged the flight of the delivery and was scalped by Scott Boland on 13 in the very next over. At tea, India were 37/2 with Virat Kohli and Cheteshwar Pujara in the middle and trying to steer the team to a safe position.</p>

<p>However, in the post-lunch session, India lost both Pujara (14) and Kohli (14) as the situation went from bad to worse at 71/4.</p>

<h2><strong>Jadeja and Rahane hold firm for India</strong></h2>

<p>With wickets following at regular intervals new batters Ajinkya Rahane (unbeaten 29) and Ravindra Jadeja (48) steered India to the 100-run mark. Jadeja was aggressive of the two and scored 48 off just 51 deliveries, while Rahane held one end for the Indian side. Jadeja’s innings consisted of a six and seven fours. Both Rahane and Jadeja put in a 71-run stand for the fifth wicket before Nathan Lyon got the better of him.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/if-it-had-been-a-question-of-money-i-would-have-gone-to-saudi-arabia-lionel-messi-on-joining-inter-miami-601947">'If it had been a question of money, I would have gone to Saudi Arabia' - Lionel Messi on joining Inter Miami</a></p>

<h2><strong>Smith scores 31st Test ton</strong></h2>

<p>Earlier in the day, Smith reached his 31st hundred for the Aussies in the Test format. The New South Wales batter leapfrogged Matthew Hayden for most Test hundreds while also bringing up his 43rd international ton. Only Steve Waugh (32) and Ricky Ponting (41) have reached the triple-figure mark on more occasions. Australia would later end their innings at 469 after they were bowled out by Indian bowlers.</p>

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Australia have stamped their authority on the World Test Championship (WTC) final after they dominated Day 2 of the Oval Test with both bat and ball on Thursday, June 8.

Australia have stamped their authority on the World Test Championship (WTC) final after they dominated Day 2 of the Oval Test with both bat and ball on Thursday, June 8. After getting bowled out for 469, their bowlers did the trick with the ball and limited India to 151/5, with top-order batters Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli already back in the pavilion. As things stand, India still trail by 318 runs in the first innings and need 118 runs to avoid follow-on. Stumps ⏲ Like the opening day, Day 2 of the Ultimate Test has belonged to the Aussies 💪 Follow the #WTC23 Final 👉 https://t.co/wJHUyVnX0r pic.twitter.com/3RRJJJh0Jo — ICC (@ICC) June 8, 2023 × India's collapse with bat After bowling out Australia, the Indian team needed a good start to stay in the hunt of the Aussies, but things did not go according to plan for Rohit Sharma’s team. India lost the skipper on 15 on the final ball of the sixth over. Soon India lost Shubman Gill as he missed judged the flight of the delivery and was scalped by Scott Boland on 13 in the very next over. At tea, India were 37/2 with Virat Kohli and Cheteshwar Pujara in the middle and trying to steer the team to a safe position. However, in the post-lunch session, India lost both Pujara (14) and Kohli (14) as the situation went from bad to worse at 71/4. Jadeja and Rahane hold firm for India With wickets following at regular intervals new batters Ajinkya Rahane (unbeaten 29) and Ravindra Jadeja (48) steered India to the 100-run mark. Jadeja was aggressive of the two and scored 48 off just 51 deliveries, while Rahane held one end for the Indian side. Jadeja’s innings consisted of a six and seven fours. Both Rahane and Jadeja put in a 71-run stand for the fifth wicket before Nathan Lyon got the better of him. ALSO READ | 'If it had been a question of money, I would have gone to Saudi Arabia' - Lionel Messi on joining Inter Miami Smith scores 31st Test ton Earlier in the day, Smith reached his 31st hundred for the Aussies in the Test format. The New South Wales batter leapfrogged Matthew Hayden for most Test hundreds while also bringing up his 43rd international ton. Only Steve Waugh (32) and Ricky Ponting (41) have reached the triple-figure mark on more occasions. Australia would later end their innings at 469 after they were bowled out by Indian bowlers. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

WTC Final: Aussies stamp authority at Oval as India's top order fails to deliver

<p>India will face Australia in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final at The Oval, London on Wednesday (June 07). After losing the inaugural WTC finale, to New Zealand, India will be eager to get past the finish line this time around and win the coveted Test mace. India have not won an ICC title since 2013 and, hence, will be desperate to break their ten-year-long title drought.</p>

<p>Ahead of the summit clash, Indian captain Rohit opened up on playing at a neutral venue, facing arch-rivals Australia and the importance of winning the mega finale.</p>

<p>"It (a neutral venue) is something different for both teams. No home support, although I think we usually get a bit more support anywhere we play," Rohit told the reporters with a smile. "But no, it's always been nice, coming and playing at neutral venues for us."</p>

<p>On facing Australia, Rohit told, "It's not just the two or three years of rivalry. There's so much history behind the two teams taking on each other. So that is what makes it more exciting, not just for the players but also for the people who are watching from all parts of the world."</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-will-win-on-day-5-of-wtc-final-vs-australia-ab-de-villiers-makes-bold-prediction-601158">India will win on Day 5 of WTC final vs Australia: AB de Villiers makes bold prediction</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>'Winning the WTC final will mean everything to us'</strong></h2>

<p>In 2021, Virat Kohli-led India lost the inaugural WTC final to eventual winners New Zealand despite dominating the entire cycle. In the second cycle, India had to work hard to enter&nbsp;the final and will be determined to get past the Aussies. Captain Rohit emphasised how big it would be if India emerge victorious in the WTC final.</p>

<p>'It'll mean everything to us. This is the ultimate format, the most challenging format. So to come out on top in this particular format will be great because it's not the effort for a month or two, it's the effort that we put in for the last few years," Hitman concluded.</p>

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India will face Australia in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final at The Oval, London on Wednesday (June 07). After losing the inaugural WTC finale, to New Zealand, India will be eager to get past the finish line this time around and win the coveted Test mace.

India will face Australia in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final at The Oval, London on Wednesday (June 07). After losing the inaugural WTC finale, to New Zealand, India will be eager to get past the finish line this time around and win the coveted Test mace. India have not won an ICC title since 2013 and, hence, will be desperate to break their ten-year-long title drought. Ahead of the summit clash, Indian captain Rohit opened up on playing at a neutral venue, facing arch-rivals Australia and the importance of winning the mega finale. "It (a neutral venue) is something different for both teams. No home support, although I think we usually get a bit more support anywhere we play," Rohit told the reporters with a smile. "But no, it's always been nice, coming and playing at neutral venues for us." On facing Australia, Rohit told, "It's not just the two or three years of rivalry. There's so much history behind the two teams taking on each other. So that is what makes it more exciting, not just for the players but also for the people who are watching from all parts of the world." Also Read: India will win on Day 5 of WTC final vs Australia: AB de Villiers makes bold prediction 'Winning the WTC final will mean everything to us' In 2021, Virat Kohli-led India lost the inaugural WTC final to eventual winners New Zealand despite dominating the entire cycle. In the second cycle, India had to work hard to enter the final and will be determined to get past the Aussies. Captain Rohit emphasised how big it would be if India emerge victorious in the WTC final. 'It'll mean everything to us. This is the ultimate format, the most challenging format. So to come out on top in this particular format will be great because it's not the effort for a month or two, it's the effort that we put in for the last few years," Hitman concluded. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

'Winning the WTC final will mean everything to us': Indian captain Rohit Sharma ahead of Australia tie

<p>The cricketing fraternity is looking forward to the upcoming ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final where India will take on Australia at the iconic The Oval, London on Wednesday (June 07). With India being without an ICC title since 2013, Rohit Sharma &amp; Co. will be adamant about breaking their title drought and emerging on top. In the inaugural WTC final, India lost to eventual winners New Zealand, hence, they will like to finish on top but Australia will pose a serious threat.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Facing the daunting Aussies, who have a fabulous record in ICC finals,&nbsp;the No. 1 ranked India won't have it easy. Australia's bowling attack -- especially their pace trio of skipper Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, etc. -- will be a stiff challenge for India. Rohit &amp; Co. also have a good bowling attack but they will miss the services of Jasprit Bumrah. Thus, India's former head coach Ravi Shastri believes India would have started&nbsp;on an equal footing, if not as favourites, had Bumrah been in the squad. He added that Australia are favourites but Indian players have the edge in terms of match fitness thanks to the recently-concluded IPL 2023.</p>

<h2><strong>'Match fitness might come into play'</strong></h2>

<p>"I would say if you look at pace attack, if Bumrah was there, I would say it was equal with an attack of Mohammed Shami, Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj. But that Aussie attack with Starc, Cummins, may be the match fitness that will come into play," Shastri said at the ICC's 'Afternoon with Test Legends' event.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/india-vs-australia-wtc-2023-final-team-indias-road-to-the-summit-clash-598637">India vs Australia, WTC 2023 Final: Team India's road to the summit clash</a></strong></p>

<p>"Match fitness might come into play," Shastri reckoned. "You need some cricket behind you and staying in the park for six hours for five days is different from bowling in nets for two hours every day," he further opined.&nbsp; "Shami might be key as he has been playing a lot of cricket," Shastri further asserted. Shami ended with 28 scalps in IPL 2023 and won the Purple Cap. Thus, his form certainly keeps India in good stead heading into the marquee finale.</p>

<p>Shastri, who was in the Indian dressing room when Virat Kohli-led India lost a rain-marred WTC final in Southampton in 2021,&nbsp;also pointed out that the second cycle of the WTC has been much different.</p>

<p>"When you don't win, it hurts as you are not there to fill in numbers. But if I look in hindsight, compared to that World Test Championship cycle, it's chalk and cheese. There was COVID-19, quarantines. It was hard on players, 14 days in isolation and then seven days of training. Here both teams have had time to prepare and this one will be a good contest," he added.</p>

<p>Whoever wins the WTC final will become the first-ever team to have won all ICC events (ICC ODI World Cup, T20 World Cup, ICC Champions Trophy, WTC) at least once.</p>

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The cricketing fraternity is looking forward to the upcoming ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final where India will take on Australia at the iconic The Oval, London on Wednesday (June 07).

The cricketing fraternity is looking forward to the upcoming ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final where India will take on Australia at the iconic The Oval, London on Wednesday (June 07). With India being without an ICC title since 2013, Rohit Sharma & Co. will be adamant about breaking their title drought and emerging on top. In the inaugural WTC final, India lost to eventual winners New Zealand, hence, they will like to finish on top but Australia will pose a serious threat. Facing the daunting Aussies, who have a fabulous record in ICC finals, the No. 1 ranked India won't have it easy. Australia's bowling attack -- especially their pace trio of skipper Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, etc. -- will be a stiff challenge for India. Rohit & Co. also have a good bowling attack but they will miss the services of Jasprit Bumrah. Thus, India's former head coach Ravi Shastri believes India would have started on an equal footing, if not as favourites, had Bumrah been in the squad. He added that Australia are favourites but Indian players have the edge in terms of match fitness thanks to the recently-concluded IPL 2023. 'Match fitness might come into play' "I would say if you look at pace attack, if Bumrah was there, I would say it was equal with an attack of Mohammed Shami, Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj. But that Aussie attack with Starc, Cummins, may be the match fitness that will come into play," Shastri said at the ICC's 'Afternoon with Test Legends' event. Also Read: India vs Australia, WTC 2023 Final: Team India's road to the summit clash "Match fitness might come into play," Shastri reckoned. "You need some cricket behind you and staying in the park for six hours for five days is different from bowling in nets for two hours every day," he further opined. "Shami might be key as he has been playing a lot of cricket," Shastri further asserted. Shami ended with 28 scalps in IPL 2023 and won the Purple Cap. Thus, his form certainly keeps India in good stead heading into the marquee finale. Shastri, who was in the Indian dressing room when Virat Kohli-led India lost a rain-marred WTC final in Southampton in 2021, also pointed out that the second cycle of the WTC has been much different. "When you don't win, it hurts as you are not there to fill in numbers. But if I look in hindsight, compared to that World Test Championship cycle, it's chalk and cheese. There was COVID-19, quarantines. It was hard on players, 14 days in isolation and then seven days of training. Here both teams have had time to prepare and this one will be a good contest," he added. Whoever wins the WTC final will become the first-ever team to have won all ICC events (ICC ODI World Cup, T20 World Cup, ICC Champions Trophy, WTC) at least once. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

WTC Final: Australia favourites on paper but Indian players have edge in...' - Ravi Shastri's big claim

<p>No. 1 ranked&nbsp;India are set to lock horns with second-positioned&nbsp;Australia in the forthcoming ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final at The Oval, London, commencing on June 07. Ahead of the marquee finale, Indian captain Rohit Sharma revealed his top-most Test highlight in recent years. Rohit made his debut in whites in late 2013, which was Sachin Tendulkar's farewell series but has cemented his spot in the red-ball format ever since he was promoted as an opener in late 2019. He has been involved in several memorable wins for India in Tests but picked Ajinkya Rahane-led side's famous 2-1 win over Tim Paine's Australia in the 2020/21 Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia.</p>

<h2><strong>'The way we played in Australia was probably the top highlight'</strong></h2>

<p>At an ICC event 'Afternoon With Test Legends’, also featuring Pat Cummins, Ross Taylor, and Ian Bell, Rohit said, "The last couple of years especially, after COVID-19. You know the times weren't that great. Especially the bubble, you didn't know what to expect. Stuck indoors and the younger boys were quite upset about that. But again, you need to beat the odds and come out on top. I thought the way we played in Australia was probably the top highlight, I would say. After losing the first Test match in Adelaide and then coming back to win then shows the strength and the depth of the team as well because we had a lot of injuries on that trip."</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/no-6-is-bit-of-a-concern-sunil-gavaskar-on-indias-playing-xi-ahead-of-marquee-wtc-final-vs-australia-600721">No. 6 is bit of a concern: Sunil Gavaskar on India's playing XI ahead of marquee WTC final vs Australia</a></strong></p>

<p>"I wasn't part of the first two Test matches. I was part of the third and fourth one. I know as a team what we were going through. So a really tough time, but we held our nerves. Like Pat just said, we came out on top but there was a lot of groundwork that happened behind the scene as well. A lot of the young players stepped in and turned things around for us. A lot of senior players were missing on that trip and that was certainly the best we played outside India. Again, the last series we played against India was another exciting series, difficult pitches and challenging ones. But we managed to go through that,"&nbsp;Hitman added.</p>

<p>Talking about India's memorable 2-1 win over Australia in 2020/21, the tourists were trailing 1-0 after losing the series opener by eight wickets following a debacle with the bat in their second essay (after attaining a 53-run lead). Following that, they were without regular captain Virat Kohli for the remainder of the series as Rahane took charge. With their back against the wall, India scripted an inspiring win to claim the series 2-1 with an impressive win in the second Test, in Melbourne, by eight wickets and a three-wicket victory at The Gabba, Brisbane in what was the series finale.</p>

<p>The likes of Shubman Gill, Mohammed Siraj, Hanuma Vihari, R Ashwin, Jasprit Bumrah, Rahane, Cheteshwar Pujara, Rishabh Pant, Washington Sundar, Shardul Thakur, etc. chipped in during India's series triumph.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It will be interesting to see who will be the players who stand&nbsp;tall for India in the upcoming WTC finale versus Pat Cummins-led Australia.</p>

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No. 1 ranked India are set to lock horns with second-positioned Australia in the forthcoming ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final at The Oval, London, commencing on June 07.

No. 1 ranked India are set to lock horns with second-positioned Australia in the forthcoming ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final at The Oval, London, commencing on June 07. Ahead of the marquee finale, Indian captain Rohit Sharma revealed his top-most Test highlight in recent years. Rohit made his debut in whites in late 2013, which was Sachin Tendulkar's farewell series but has cemented his spot in the red-ball format ever since he was promoted as an opener in late 2019. He has been involved in several memorable wins for India in Tests but picked Ajinkya Rahane-led side's famous 2-1 win over Tim Paine's Australia in the 2020/21 Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia. 'The way we played in Australia was probably the top highlight' At an ICC event 'Afternoon With Test Legends’, also featuring Pat Cummins, Ross Taylor, and Ian Bell, Rohit said, "The last couple of years especially, after COVID-19. You know the times weren't that great. Especially the bubble, you didn't know what to expect. Stuck indoors and the younger boys were quite upset about that. But again, you need to beat the odds and come out on top. I thought the way we played in Australia was probably the top highlight, I would say. After losing the first Test match in Adelaide and then coming back to win then shows the strength and the depth of the team as well because we had a lot of injuries on that trip." Also Read: No. 6 is bit of a concern: Sunil Gavaskar on India's playing XI ahead of marquee WTC final vs Australia "I wasn't part of the first two Test matches. I was part of the third and fourth one. I know as a team what we were going through. So a really tough time, but we held our nerves. Like Pat just said, we came out on top but there was a lot of groundwork that happened behind the scene as well. A lot of the young players stepped in and turned things around for us. A lot of senior players were missing on that trip and that was certainly the best we played outside India. Again, the last series we played against India was another exciting series, difficult pitches and challenging ones. But we managed to go through that," Hitman added. Talking about India's memorable 2-1 win over Australia in 2020/21, the tourists were trailing 1-0 after losing the series opener by eight wickets following a debacle with the bat in their second essay (after attaining a 53-run lead). Following that, they were without regular captain Virat Kohli for the remainder of the series as Rahane took charge. With their back against the wall, India scripted an inspiring win to claim the series 2-1 with an impressive win in the second Test, in Melbourne, by eight wickets and a three-wicket victory at The Gabba, Brisbane in what was the series finale. The likes of Shubman Gill, Mohammed Siraj, Hanuma Vihari, R Ashwin, Jasprit Bumrah, Rahane, Cheteshwar Pujara, Rishabh Pant, Washington Sundar, Shardul Thakur, etc. chipped in during India's series triumph. It will be interesting to see who will be the players who stand tall for India in the upcoming WTC finale versus Pat Cummins-led Australia. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

Ahead of WTC final showdown, Indian captain Rohit Sharma picks his top-most Test career highlight

<p>No. 1 ranked India are set to face Australia in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final on June 07 at The Oval, London. The match will present India with another chance to end their ICC title drought since 2013. It won't be an easy task as&nbsp;Australia will give them a tough challenge. Ahead of Rohit Sharma &amp; Co.'s final showdown versus the Aussies, former England spinner Monty Panesar picked one X-factor player apiece from both sides.</p>

<p>Panesar -- best known for his 17 scalps in England's famous 2-1 series win over hosts India in 2012/13 -- feels Cheteshwar Pujara will hold the key for India in the marquee finale whereas he picked Mitchell Starc as Australia's X-factor player.</p>

<h2><strong>'My X-factor batter will be Pujara for India. Starc will be one to watch out for from Australia'</strong></h2>

<p>"The Indian top-order is in form. The conditions will be similar to the Wankhede pitch which is fast and bouncy. My x-factor batter will be Pujara because he has done so well in these English conditions for Sussex. He is the guy who binds this batting lineup together," Panesar told PTI.</p>

<p>"He is good with his defence and if the ball is going to do a little bit, he can negotiate the Aussie bowlers and when the pitch is flat, the others can cash in with some attacking cricket. You don't need to be an extraordinary wicketkeeper in England. He has been keeping and batting well. He should play ahead of Bharat," he further mentioned.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ahead-of-wtc-final-showdown-indian-captain-rohit-sharma-picks-his-top-most-test-career-highlight-600837">Ahead of WTC final showdown, Indian captain Rohit Sharma picks his top-most Test career highlight</a></strong></p>

<p>"For Australia, Starc will be the one to watch out for. He is going to be quick and he is going to get that late movement. He can change the game with one spell. He is the guy Australia will go to when they need a wicket," Panesar added.</p>

<p>India and Australia locked horns in the red-ball format recently, during the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy in India. Back then, Pujara returned with&nbsp;140 runs in 4 matches, with a best of 59 whereas Starc only managed two scalps from an equal number of games. Both will be raring to go big in the WTC final and help their respective sides emerge on top.</p>

<p><strong>Australia squad</strong>: Pat Cummins (c), Scott Boland, Alex Carey (wk), Cameron Green, Marcus Harris, Travis Head, Josh Inglis (wk), Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Todd Murphy, Steve Smith (vc), Mitchell Starc, David Warner, Michael Neser.</p>

<p><strong>Standby players</strong>: Mitch Marsh, Matthew Renshaw</p>

<p><strong>India squad</strong>: Rohit Sharma (c), Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli, Ajinkya Rahane, KS Bharat (wk), Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Shardul Thakur, Mohd. Shami, Mohd. Siraj, Umesh Yadav, Jaydev Unadkat, Ishan Kishan (wk)</p>

<p><strong>Standby players</strong>: Yashasvi Jaiswal, Mukesh Kumar, Suryakumar Yadav</p>


No. 1 ranked India are set to face Australia in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final on June 07 at The Oval, London. The match will present India with another chance to end their ICC title drought since 2013.

No. 1 ranked India are set to face Australia in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final on June 07 at The Oval, London. The match will present India with another chance to end their ICC title drought since 2013. It won't be an easy task as Australia will give them a tough challenge. Ahead of Rohit Sharma & Co.'s final showdown versus the Aussies, former England spinner Monty Panesar picked one X-factor player apiece from both sides. Panesar -- best known for his 17 scalps in England's famous 2-1 series win over hosts India in 2012/13 -- feels Cheteshwar Pujara will hold the key for India in the marquee finale whereas he picked Mitchell Starc as Australia's X-factor player. 'My X-factor batter will be Pujara for India. Starc will be one to watch out for from Australia' "The Indian top-order is in form. The conditions will be similar to the Wankhede pitch which is fast and bouncy. My x-factor batter will be Pujara because he has done so well in these English conditions for Sussex. He is the guy who binds this batting lineup together," Panesar told PTI. "He is good with his defence and if the ball is going to do a little bit, he can negotiate the Aussie bowlers and when the pitch is flat, the others can cash in with some attacking cricket. You don't need to be an extraordinary wicketkeeper in England. He has been keeping and batting well. He should play ahead of Bharat," he further mentioned. Also Read: Ahead of WTC final showdown, Indian captain Rohit Sharma picks his top-most Test career highlight "For Australia, Starc will be the one to watch out for. He is going to be quick and he is going to get that late movement. He can change the game with one spell. He is the guy Australia will go to when they need a wicket," Panesar added. India and Australia locked horns in the red-ball format recently, during the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy in India. Back then, Pujara returned with 140 runs in 4 matches, with a best of 59 whereas Starc only managed two scalps from an equal number of games. Both will be raring to go big in the WTC final and help their respective sides emerge on top. Australia squad: Pat Cummins (c), Scott Boland, Alex Carey (wk), Cameron Green, Marcus Harris, Travis Head, Josh Inglis (wk), Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Todd Murphy, Steve Smith (vc), Mitchell Starc, David Warner, Michael Neser. Standby players: Mitch Marsh, Matthew Renshaw India squad: Rohit Sharma (c), Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli, Ajinkya Rahane, KS Bharat (wk), Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Shardul Thakur, Mohd. Shami, Mohd. Siraj, Umesh Yadav, Jaydev Unadkat, Ishan Kishan (wk) Standby players: Yashasvi Jaiswal, Mukesh Kumar, Suryakumar Yadav

WTC Final: Former England spinner names India and Australia's X-factor for mega clash

<p>The stage is set for a blockbuster face-off as India lock horns with Australia in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final at The Oval, London on Wednesday (June 07). Ahead of the marquee finale, many former cricketers and experts of the game have shared their predictions and ex-South Africa captain AB de Villiers joined the bandwagon.</p>

<p>De Villiers admitted that it is tough to pick a favourite between No. 1 ranked&nbsp;India and heavyweights&nbsp;Pat Cummins-led Australia but believes Rohit Sharma &amp; Co. will emerge on top on Day Five.</p>

<p>"Very difficult to say who are the favorites. Both teams have not been playing a lot of Test cricket of late but what I can say is that India in their last Test match at the Oval, have got a win against this very strong England team. They will be taking a bit of confidence from that," said De Villiers while speaking to JioCinema.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rahul-dravids-speech-will-be-this-wtc-cycles-moment-says-r-ashwin-ahead-of-australia-finale-601116">Rahul Dravid's speech will be this WTC cycle's moment, says R Ashwin ahead of Australia finale</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>'India will come out on top on Day 5'</strong></h2>

<p>"I think India will come out on top on day five of the Test match. I think it might go all the way. It's a good wicket to bat on but I think the Indian spinners will come into play in the latter stages of the Test match," he further opined.</p>

<p>On Jasprit Bumrah's absence, De Villiers stated, "Bumrah is a big loss for the Indian bowling attack, but I do think that Mohammed Siraj is in the form of his life. He has done well there before. He has got that extra pace. He nips it around off-stump, and I think he is the biggest asset in India's bowling attack."</p>

<p>India lost the inaugural WTC final to New Zealand by eight wickets in Southampton in 2021. This time around, they will like to get past the finish line and end their ten-year-long title drought in ICC events as well.</p>


The stage is set for a blockbuster face-off as India lock horns with Australia in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final at The Oval, London on Wednesday (June 07).

The stage is set for a blockbuster face-off as India lock horns with Australia in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final at The Oval, London on Wednesday (June 07). Ahead of the marquee finale, many former cricketers and experts of the game have shared their predictions and ex-South Africa captain AB de Villiers joined the bandwagon. De Villiers admitted that it is tough to pick a favourite between No. 1 ranked India and heavyweights Pat Cummins-led Australia but believes Rohit Sharma & Co. will emerge on top on Day Five. "Very difficult to say who are the favorites. Both teams have not been playing a lot of Test cricket of late but what I can say is that India in their last Test match at the Oval, have got a win against this very strong England team. They will be taking a bit of confidence from that," said De Villiers while speaking to JioCinema. Also Read: Rahul Dravid's speech will be this WTC cycle's moment, says R Ashwin ahead of Australia finale 'India will come out on top on Day 5' "I think India will come out on top on day five of the Test match. I think it might go all the way. It's a good wicket to bat on but I think the Indian spinners will come into play in the latter stages of the Test match," he further opined. On Jasprit Bumrah's absence, De Villiers stated, "Bumrah is a big loss for the Indian bowling attack, but I do think that Mohammed Siraj is in the form of his life. He has done well there before. He has got that extra pace. He nips it around off-stump, and I think he is the biggest asset in India's bowling attack." India lost the inaugural WTC final to New Zealand by eight wickets in Southampton in 2021. This time around, they will like to get past the finish line and end their ten-year-long title drought in ICC events as well.

India will win on Day 5 of WTC final vs Australia: AB de Villiers makes bold prediction

<p>Australia skipper Pat Cummins, ahead of the World Test Championship (WTC) Final against India, said that he preferred the breaks between games as the international calendar is getting busier every day and with that the workload of players.</p>

<p>"Yeah, they [breaks] are rare to come by," Cummins said ahead of the marquee clash at an ICC event. Notably, Australia will stay back in England&nbsp;where the WTC Final will take place, to play the five-Test Ashes series.</p>

<p>"So, yeah, we try and take a break when we can. I've always said that we have got six Test matches in the next two months, I'd much prefer to be slightly underdone than overdone. That's from a bowler's point of view. I always feel like it doesn't take too much to kind of get ready. And then I want to make sure I'm fresh physically for the matches," added Cummins.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ex-south-africa-cricketer-lance-klusener-thinks-fantastic-hadrik-pandya-gave-up-on-tests-easily-600711">Ex-South Africa cricketer Lance Klusener thinks 'fantastic' Hardik Pandya gave up on Tests easily</a></p>

<p>While some Aussie players, including Cummins, had a break before the WTC Final, Indians, on the other hand, are coming from the recently-concluded Indian Premier League (IPL), except middle-order batsman Cheteshwar Pujara who played some county cricket in England for preparation.</p>

<p>The Aussie skipper also said that his team is refreshed and ready to face India after a three-day training camp in Beckenham where Cummins spoke at the event.</p>

<p>"We have had some really good training at Beckenham the last week," said the fast bowler. "Obviously back home, we did a lot of training as well. So everyone's come in, we've trained really hard, everyone's rejuvenated, refreshed and pretty keen."</p>

<p>The WTC Final starts from June 7 at the Oval cricket ground in London where both the teams will face off each other in the first ICC Final since the 2003 ODI World Cup Final in South Africa.</p>

<p>Whichever team wins the trophy will be the first one to have all the ICC trophies to their name. India are in their second consecutive final of the two editions played so far while Australia is in their first WTC final.</p>

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Australia skipper Pat Cummins, ahead of the World Test Championship (WTC) Final against India, said that he preferred the breaks between games as the international calendar is getting busier every day and with that the workload of players.

Australia skipper Pat Cummins, ahead of the World Test Championship (WTC) Final against India, said that he preferred the breaks between games as the international calendar is getting busier every day and with that the workload of players. "Yeah, they [breaks] are rare to come by," Cummins said ahead of the marquee clash at an ICC event. Notably, Australia will stay back in England where the WTC Final will take place, to play the five-Test Ashes series. "So, yeah, we try and take a break when we can. I've always said that we have got six Test matches in the next two months, I'd much prefer to be slightly underdone than overdone. That's from a bowler's point of view. I always feel like it doesn't take too much to kind of get ready. And then I want to make sure I'm fresh physically for the matches," added Cummins. Also Read: Ex-South Africa cricketer Lance Klusener thinks 'fantastic' Hardik Pandya gave up on Tests easily While some Aussie players, including Cummins, had a break before the WTC Final, Indians, on the other hand, are coming from the recently-concluded Indian Premier League (IPL), except middle-order batsman Cheteshwar Pujara who played some county cricket in England for preparation. The Aussie skipper also said that his team is refreshed and ready to face India after a three-day training camp in Beckenham where Cummins spoke at the event. "We have had some really good training at Beckenham the last week," said the fast bowler. "Obviously back home, we did a lot of training as well. So everyone's come in, we've trained really hard, everyone's rejuvenated, refreshed and pretty keen." The WTC Final starts from June 7 at the Oval cricket ground in London where both the teams will face off each other in the first ICC Final since the 2003 ODI World Cup Final in South Africa. Whichever team wins the trophy will be the first one to have all the ICC trophies to their name. India are in their second consecutive final of the two editions played so far while Australia is in their first WTC final. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us

WTC Final: Pat Cummins says 'refreshed' Australia ready to face India

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