Days after the International Cricket Council (ICC) revised several playing conditions for men’s cricket worldwide, including updating the Boundary Law and introducing the one-ball rule in ODIs from the 35th over onwards, they have made wholesome changes to some of the playing conditions in Tests as well. While many of the rule changes related to Test cricket have already come into play in the new World Test Championship (WTC) cycle, those affecting the One-Dayers will be effective from July 2. Of the latest ones, the introduction of a stop-clock in Test cricket hogged most limelight.&nbsp;So, what is a stop-clock in Test cricket? And will it make the format interesting or fast-paced in any way?<h2>What is stop-clock cricket? &nbsp;</h2>Like how it reduces slow-over rates in ODIs, its introduction in Tests is for the same purpose.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/made-wrong-friends-devoted-less-time-to-practice-prithvi-shaw-on-his-career-downfall-indian-team-friendship-practice-1750921223387">'Made wrong friends, devoted less time to practice': Prithvi Shaw reflects on his downfall</a> &nbsp;A year after the ICC introduced the stop-clock rule in white-ball cricket, it decided to expand its use across the red-ball game too. Considering that the slow over rates have been a long-standing issue in the Test format, their introduction will force the fielding teams and their captains to act quickly between overs. &nbsp;According to the revised rule, the fielding team must be ready to start an over within one minute of the previous one ending. While the on-field umpires are bound to warn the fielding team twice for their failure to do so, the officials will then impose a five-run penalty on the bowling team should they miss it the third time. &nbsp;While the two warnings will be reset to zero after the completion of 80 overs each time, the clock will be counted upwards from 0 to 60; moreover, this rule has already been in action since the start of the latest 2025-27 WTC cycle. &nbsp;<h3>No mandatory ball change over deliberate saliva usage &nbsp;</h3>Although the ICC continues to ban the usage of saliva on the ball, it is no longer mandatory for the on-field umpires to change it should saliva be found on it. This change, however, has come on the back of teams trying to change the ball by deliberately applying saliva to it.&nbsp; So, unlike the previous times, it’s up to the umpires to change the ball if its condition is drastically changed, like it appears too shiny or is wet from either or both sides. &nbsp;However, in a case where the ball begins to act up a bit after the umpires acknowledge that, despite saliva’s application to it, it hasn’t changed, the batting team will be awarded five runs. All of this has been left entirely to the umpires and their decisions on the field.&nbsp;

What is stop clock rule in Test Cricket? Will it make the format interesting?

Days after the International Cricket Council (ICC) revised several playing conditions for men’s cricket worldwide, including updating the Boundary Law and introducing the one-ball rule in ODIs from the 35th over onwards, they have made wholesome changes to some of the playing conditions in Tests as well. While many of the rule changes related to Test cricket have already come into play in the new World Test Championship (WTC) cycle, those affecting the One-Dayers will be effective from July 2. Of the latest ones, the introduction of a stop-clock in Test cricket hogged most limelight. So, what is a stop-clock in Test cricket? And will it make the format interesting or fast-paced in any way? What is stop-clock cricket? Like how it reduces slow-over rates in ODIs, its introduction in Tests is for the same purpose. Also read | 'Made wrong friends, devoted less time to practice': Prithvi Shaw reflects on his downfall A year after the ICC introduced the stop-clock rule in white-ball cricket, it decided to expand its use across the red-ball game too. Considering that the slow over rates have been a long-standing issue in the Test format, their introduction will force the fielding teams and their captains to act quickly between overs. According to the revised rule, the fielding team must be ready to start an over within one minute of the previous one ending. While the on-field umpires are bound to warn the fielding team twice for their failure to do so, the officials will then impose a five-run penalty on the bowling team should they miss it the third time. While the two warnings will be reset to zero after the completion of 80 overs each time, the clock will be counted upwards from 0 to 60; moreover, this rule has already been in action since the start of the latest 2025-27 WTC cycle. No mandatory ball change over deliberate saliva usage Although the ICC continues to ban the usage of saliva on the ball, it is no longer mandatory for the on-field umpires to change it should saliva be found on it. This change, however, has come on the back of teams trying to change the ball by deliberately applying saliva to it. So, unlike the previous times, it’s up to the umpires to change the ball if its condition is drastically changed, like it appears too shiny or is wet from either or both sides. However, in a case where the ball begins to act up a bit after the umpires acknowledge that, despite saliva’s application to it, it hasn’t changed, the batting team will be awarded five runs. All of this has been left entirely to the umpires and their decisions on the field.

A year after the ICC introduced the stop-clock rule in white-ball cricket, it decided to expand its use across the red-ball game too.

What is stop-clock rule in Test Cricket? Will it make the red-ball cricket interesting?

India came into the Headingley Test against England as an underdog without Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, Cheteshwar Pujara and Ravi Ashwin - all retired - but delivered with the bat. The batting line-up, led by young Shubman Gill, were asked to bat first after losing the toss and put up a handsome 471-run total in the first innings. In the second innings, India scored another 364 runs to take the total runs scored in match to 835, including five centuries, but still lost the match. Are India's 835 runs the most in a losing Test? The answer is no - three more teams have done worse than India including England itself.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-will-bumrah-not-play-in-second-test-against-england-india-coach-gambhir-shares-update-1750869853397">Bumrah to not play in second Test against England? India coach Gambhir shares update</a>India's 835 runs are the fourth most runs in Test lost by a team. Ahead of India are New Zealand, Pakistan and England itself. The Kiwis and Pakistan also lost their matches against England after scoring 837 and 847 runs, respectively in 2022. England, meanwhile, lost to Australia despite scoring 861 runs in a Test back in 1948.New Zealand lost to England in Nottingham Test in 2022 - The Kiwis scored 553 runs in the 1st innings to which England replied with 539. In the 2nd innings, New Zealand scored 284 runs and took their total match runs to 837 runs. England, however, chased down 299-run target with five wickets to spare.Pakistan's loss came on a flat track of Rawalpindi in 2022 where England batted first and scored a mammoth 659 runs in the first innings. Pakistan then replied with 579 runs in the first innings and England then scored another 264/7 before declaring to leave themselves 342 runs to defend. Pakistan tried for a bit but then were bowled out for 268 - taking their total match runs to 847 - yet losing by 74 runs.As for England, they lost at Headingley against Australia in 1948. Batting first, the hosts scored 496 runs and Australia replied with 458. England then belligerently declared their second innings at 365/8 - taking their total match runs to 861 and giving Australia a stiff 404-run target. Australia, much to a shock to everyone, chased it down with seven wickets in hand.

India's 835 runs are the fourth most runs in Test lost by a team. Ahead of India are New Zealand, Pakistan and England itself. The Kiwis and Pakistan also lost their matches vs England after scoring 837 and 847 runs. England, meanwhile, lost to Australia despite scoring 861 runs in 1948.

India came into the Headingley Test against England as an underdog without Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, Cheteshwar Pujara and Ravi Ashwin - all retired - but delivered with the bat. The batting line-up, led by young Shubman Gill, were asked to bat first after losing the toss and put up a handsome 471-run total in the first innings. In the second innings, India scored another 364 runs to take the total runs scored in match to 835, including five centuries, but still lost the match. Are India's 835 runs the most in a losing Test? The answer is no - three more teams have done worse than India including England itself. Also Read - Bumrah to not play in second Test against England? India coach Gambhir shares update India's 835 runs are the fourth most runs in Test lost by a team. Ahead of India are New Zealand, Pakistan and England itself. The Kiwis and Pakistan also lost their matches against England after scoring 837 and 847 runs, respectively in 2022. England, meanwhile, lost to Australia despite scoring 861 runs in a Test back in 1948. New Zealand lost to England in Nottingham Test in 2022 - The Kiwis scored 553 runs in the 1st innings to which England replied with 539. In the 2nd innings, New Zealand scored 284 runs and took their total match runs to 837 runs. England, however, chased down 299-run target with five wickets to spare. Pakistan's loss came on a flat track of Rawalpindi in 2022 where England batted first and scored a mammoth 659 runs in the first innings. Pakistan then replied with 579 runs in the first innings and England then scored another 264/7 before declaring to leave themselves 342 runs to defend. Pakistan tried for a bit but then were bowled out for 268 - taking their total match runs to 847 - yet losing by 74 runs. As for England, they lost at Headingley against Australia in 1948. Batting first, the hosts scored 496 runs and Australia replied with 458. England then belligerently declared their second innings at 365/8 - taking their total match runs to 861 and giving Australia a stiff 404-run target. Australia, much to a shock to everyone, chased it down with seven wickets in hand.

India's 835 runs are the fourth most runs in Test lost by a team. Ahead of India are New Zealand, Pakistan and England itself. The Kiwis and Pakistan also lost their matches vs England after scoring 837 and 847 runs. England, meanwhile, lost to Australia despite scoring 861 runs in 1948.

Are India's 835 runs the most in a Test loss? No - these three more teams have done worse

Exocet is most commonly referred to as a French anti-ship missile which blows the target out of water. England's Bazball does the same, except on a cricket field where their batting, regardless of situation, pitch, conditions, innings and pressure, go about business at one pace to blow the opposition bowling into pieces of irrelevance. The latest example is England's win in first Test against India at Headingley where they chased down 350 runs on the final day and 371 in total to record their second highest chase in Test history at home. The highest one, 378 runs in 2022, also came against India and in initial days of Bazball - showing what a destructive methodology it is.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-prasidh-krishna-and-shardul-thakur-repeat-kapil-and-binny-s-test-winning-feat-from-1986-england-tour-1750776936323">Prasidh Krishna, Shardul join Binny and Kapil in UNIQUE list with two wickets at Headingley</a>Such was the impact of Bazball on the final day at Headingley that India, despite having cheat-code Bumrah, could not take a single wicket till 188 runs were on board - and this is the fourth innings of a Test where batting is supposed to be tough. England finished the match one hour before the stumps.About the sessions, England scored 96 in the first session till lunch on day 5 in 24 overs at 4 runs per over without losing a wicket. In the next session, they lost four wickets but they scored 152 runs at 5.3 runs per over. In the last session, they needed only 23.3 over to chase down remaining 102 runs at 4.3 runs per over for loss of only one wicket.England chased down 350 runs in 76 overs at a run-rate of 4.60 on the fifth day pitch - the second most in a successful chase. The last time any team chased more that them was Australia - 404 against England only that too at Headingley.The 188-run opening partnership is also the highest against India in fourth innings of a Test - and it clearly shows that the England openers were severe on the Indian bowlers.The numbers clearly show that Bazball is something that can't be taken lightly, especially when chasing and India would have to wary of that fact in the remining four matches of the series.

England's Bazball, like an Exocet, except on a cricket field where their batting, regardless of situation, pitch, conditions, innings and pressure, go about business at one pace to blow the opposition bowling into pieces of irrelevance. 

Exocet is most commonly referred to as a French anti-ship missile which blows the target out of water. England's Bazball does the same, except on a cricket field where their batting, regardless of situation, pitch, conditions, innings and pressure, go about business at one pace to blow the opposition bowling into pieces of irrelevance. The latest example is England's win in first Test against India at Headingley where they chased down 350 runs on the final day and 371 in total to record their second highest chase in Test history at home. The highest one, 378 runs in 2022, also came against India and in initial days of Bazball - showing what a destructive methodology it is. Also Read - Prasidh Krishna, Shardul join Binny and Kapil in UNIQUE list with two wickets at Headingley Such was the impact of Bazball on the final day at Headingley that India, despite having cheat-code Bumrah, could not take a single wicket till 188 runs were on board - and this is the fourth innings of a Test where batting is supposed to be tough. England finished the match one hour before the stumps. About the sessions, England scored 96 in the first session till lunch on day 5 in 24 overs at 4 runs per over without losing a wicket. In the next session, they lost four wickets but they scored 152 runs at 5.3 runs per over. In the last session, they needed only 23.3 over to chase down remaining 102 runs at 4.3 runs per over for loss of only one wicket. England chased down 350 runs in 76 overs at a run-rate of 4.60 on the fifth day pitch - the second most in a successful chase. The last time any team chased more that them was Australia - 404 against England only that too at Headingley. The 188-run opening partnership is also the highest against India in fourth innings of a Test - and it clearly shows that the England openers were severe on the Indian bowlers. The numbers clearly show that Bazball is something that can't be taken lightly, especially when chasing and India would have to wary of that fact in the remining four matches of the series.

England's Bazball, like an Exocet, except on a cricket field where their batting, regardless of situation, pitch, conditions, innings and pressure, go about business at one pace to blow the opposition bowling into pieces of irrelevance.&nbsp;

England prove Bazball is Test cricket's Exocet with yet another Headingley win

England batter Ben Duckett has become the first English opener to score a Test hundred in the fourth innings against India in England. Duckett achieved the feat during on day 5 (Jun 24) of the first Test at Headingley in Leeds. By the time rain stopped play on the final day, Duckett was batting at 105 not out with his partner Zak Crawley at 59. Duckett is also only the fifth England batter overall to score a fourth innings Test ton against India in England. He was eventually dismissed for 149.List of batters to score a fourth innings Test hundred against India in England:<ul><li>Joe Root - 142 not out - Birmingham 2022</li><li>Jonny Bairstow - 114 not out - Birmingham 2022</li><li>Jos Buttler - 106 - Nottingham 2018</li><li>Ben Duckett - 105 not out - Leeds 2025 (ongoing)</li><li>Kevin Pietersen - 101 - The Oval 2007</li></ul>Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-ind-vs-eng-crawley-duckett-stitch-record-ton-partnership-in-4th-innings-to-put-india-on-backfoot-in-headingley-1750769290433">IND vs ENG: Crawley, Duckett stitch record ton partnership in 4th innings to put India on backfoot at Headingley</a>Duckett is also only the ninth English opener to score a hundred in fourth innings in a Test in England and first since former skipper Andrew Strauss who had scored 106 against New Zealand in Manchester in 2008.England in command of chase at HeadingleyAt the time on rain interruption, England were batting at 181/0 while chasing 371 and need only 190 runs to more to win and take a 1-0 lead in the five Test series.This in only the fourth time that a hundred partnership has been stitched for the opening wicket at the venue and England openers have made it a best one. The previous record was with Verdun Scott and Bert Sutcliffe of New Zealand who had added 112 runs for the first wicket in 1949. By lunch on day 5, Crawley and Duckett had added 117 runs - the highest fourth innings partnership against India in Leeds.England started the day from overnight score of 21/0 in chase of 371. The overcast conditions were supposed to benefit the Indian bowlers but the English batters put them at bay with ease.

Duckett is also only the ninth English opener to score a hundred in fourth innings in a Test in England and first since former skipper Andrew Strauss who had scored 106 against New Zealand in Manchester in 2008.

England batter Ben Duckett has become the first English opener to score a Test hundred in the fourth innings against India in England. Duckett achieved the feat during on day 5 (Jun 24) of the first Test at Headingley in Leeds. By the time rain stopped play on the final day, Duckett was batting at 105 not out with his partner Zak Crawley at 59. Duckett is also only the fifth England batter overall to score a fourth innings Test ton against India in England. He was eventually dismissed for 149. List of batters to score a fourth innings Test hundred against India in England: Joe Root - 142 not out - Birmingham 2022 Jonny Bairstow - 114 not out - Birmingham 2022 Jos Buttler - 106 - Nottingham 2018 Ben Duckett - 105 not out - Leeds 2025 (ongoing) Kevin Pietersen - 101 - The Oval 2007 Also Read - IND vs ENG: Crawley, Duckett stitch record ton partnership in 4th innings to put India on backfoot at Headingley Duckett is also only the ninth English opener to score a hundred in fourth innings in a Test in England and first since former skipper Andrew Strauss who had scored 106 against New Zealand in Manchester in 2008. England in command of chase at Headingley At the time on rain interruption, England were batting at 181/0 while chasing 371 and need only 190 runs to more to win and take a 1-0 lead in the five Test series. This in only the fourth time that a hundred partnership has been stitched for the opening wicket at the venue and England openers have made it a best one. The previous record was with Verdun Scott and Bert Sutcliffe of New Zealand who had added 112 runs for the first wicket in 1949. By lunch on day 5, Crawley and Duckett had added 117 runs - the highest fourth innings partnership against India in Leeds. England started the day from overnight score of 21/0 in chase of 371. The overcast conditions were supposed to benefit the Indian bowlers but the English batters put them at bay with ease.

By the time rain stopped play on the final day, Duckett was batting at 105 not out with his partner Zak Crawley at 59. Duckett is also only the fifth England batter overall to score a fourth innings Test ton against India in England.

IND vs ENG: Duckett achieves RARE feat with fourth innings ton vs India at Headingley

Rishabh Pant is having a blockbuster first Test at Headingley against England with twin hundreds, each in first innings, and taking his total Test hundreds tally to eight. India star Pant now not only has most Test hundreds by an Asian wicketkeeper-batter but also equalled a long-standing Sachin Tendulkar record as well. The second hundred by Pant was his fourth in England in Tests - joint most by an Indian along with Sachin (4) and Dilip Vengsarkar (4). He is now behind only Rahul Dravid who scored six Test hundreds in England.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-eng-1st-test-pant-follows-bumrahs-footsteps-breaks-29-year-old-pakistan-record-in-sena-countries-1750686480497">Pant follows Bumrah's footsteps, breaks 29-year-old Pakistan record in SENA countries</a>With his twin tons, 134 in first innings and 118 in second innings, Pant scored 252 runs in the Test match - the most by a wicketkeeper-batter in SENA countries (South Africa, England, New Zealand and Australia). He also has joint-most Test tons by a wicketkeeper-batter in England - 4 - along with Alec Stewart and Matt Prior.Pant scored 134 runs in the first innings of the ongoing first Test against England with 70th run in his second innings - he breached the mark of most runs by an Asian wicketkeeper-batter in SENA nations. The previous record of 204 runs was also in Pant's name when he had scored 146 and 57 in Birmingham Test in 2022.At Headingley in Leeds, he overtook Moin Khan's record of 135 runs in a Test the first two runs (four in his case) of his innings. Moin had scored 105 and 30 not out in in a 1996 Test.Pant, by reaching the 91-run mark, also broke MS Dhoni's (224 runs) record of most runs by an Indian wicketkeeper-batter in a Test (home or away).As for England, they finished day 4 (Jun 23) at 21/0 - needing 350 runs more on the final day to win the first of five Tests.

With his twin tons, 134 in first innings and 118 in second innings, Pant scored 252 runs in the Test match - the most by a wicketkeeper-batter in SENA countries. He also has joint-most Test tons by a wicketkeeper-batter in England - 4 - along with Alec Stewart and Matt Prior.

Rishabh Pant is having a blockbuster first Test at Headingley against England with twin hundreds, each in first innings, and taking his total Test hundreds tally to eight. India star Pant now not only has most Test hundreds by an Asian wicketkeeper-batter but also equalled a long-standing Sachin Tendulkar record as well. The second hundred by Pant was his fourth in England in Tests - joint most by an Indian along with Sachin (4) and Dilip Vengsarkar (4). He is now behind only Rahul Dravid who scored six Test hundreds in England. Also Read - Pant follows Bumrah's footsteps, breaks 29-year-old Pakistan record in SENA countries With his twin tons, 134 in first innings and 118 in second innings, Pant scored 252 runs in the Test match - the most by a wicketkeeper-batter in SENA countries (South Africa, England, New Zealand and Australia). He also has joint-most Test tons by a wicketkeeper-batter in England - 4 - along with Alec Stewart and Matt Prior. Pant scored 134 runs in the first innings of the ongoing first Test against England with 70th run in his second innings - he breached the mark of most runs by an Asian wicketkeeper-batter in SENA nations. The previous record of 204 runs was also in Pant's name when he had scored 146 and 57 in Birmingham Test in 2022. At Headingley in Leeds, he overtook Moin Khan's record of 135 runs in a Test the first two runs (four in his case) of his innings. Moin had scored 105 and 30 not out in in a 1996 Test. Pant, by reaching the 91-run mark, also broke MS Dhoni's (224 runs) record of most runs by an Indian wicketkeeper-batter in a Test (home or away). As for England, they finished day 4 (Jun 23) at 21/0 - needing 350 runs more on the final day to win the first of five Tests.

With his twin tons, 134 in first innings and 118 in second innings, Pant scored 252 runs in the Test match - the most by a wicketkeeper-batter in SENA countries. He also has joint-most Test tons by a wicketkeeper-batter in England - 4 - along with Alec Stewart and Matt Prior.

IND vs ENG: Pant equals Tendulkar's HISTORIC feat with twin tons in Headingley Test

Rishabh Pant hit twin hundreds (134 and 118) in first Test against England at Headingley in Leeds (UK) and took his tally to 8 - the most by a wicketkeeper-batter from Asia (India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh or Afghanistan).

Rishabh Pant hit twin hundreds (134 and 118) in first Test against England at Headingley in Leeds (UK) and took his tally to 8 - the most by a wicketkeeper-batter from Asia (India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh or Afghanistan).

All-time Asian great? Rishabh Pant now has most Test hundreds as wicketkeeper-batter from Asia

There are quick bowlers, while some are quicker than them; some are just too good, while some get better with time, and then come great bowlers. How are they great? What do they do? Do they have some special skills, or are they born talented? There, of course, remains a vast difference between the regular ones, the good ones and the best ones. For instance, Jasprit Bumrah - he’s India’s greatest ever, not even comparable, and among the best of his generation. Some even call him <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-eng-1st-test-leeds-has-cricket-found-its-most-complete-fast-bowler-in-jasprit-bumrah-ashes-winner-steve-finn-reflects-1750665798590">the most complete bowler in Test history</a>, while those on the internet cannot stop making TikTok edits on his bowling prowess.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-eng-2025-placing-james-anderson-name-ahead-of-sachin-tendulkar-in-trophy-renaming-saga-irks-gavaskar-pataudi-1750681059520">IND vs ENG: Placing Anderson’s name ahead of Tendulkar in Trophy renaming saga irks Gavaskar</a>&nbsp;So, what makes him better than others? Are there factors that aid this statement, and if yes, then what are they?<h2>Does good fielding help? &nbsp;</h2>Of course, it does, and it does big time.&nbsp; &nbsp;Bowlers don’t just clean bowl batters every time or trap them in the middle - they need good fielders placed at the correct position for them to taste success; in another case, should that not happen, bowlers, scorecards, and the bowling team - all suffer. &nbsp;Pick the best bowlers of all time and dig deep into the stats, their teammates, and world-class fielders during that time, and see the difference. Pick any West Indian team from the past, or even English and Australian sides of the late 80s, all consisting of marvellous catchers and fielders.&nbsp; &nbsp;Although it’s always the bowler and his delivery that brings everyone else in the game, the tight slip cordon and those standing on the gully add value to it. &nbsp;Be it Dennis Lillee-Rod Marsh, Malcolm Marshall-Jeffrey Dujon, Glenn McGrath-Adam Gilchrist or even Ian Botham-Robert Taylor, all are among the best bowler-fielder combinations (in Tests) that helped better each other’s records and make them enter history books.<h3>Does just good bowling help? &nbsp;</h3>It does! It’s the base; only good bowling leads to creating more chances, and those chances convert into wickets. Those playing international cricket are top-notch in their respective divisions and categories and are expected to deliver across all conditions.&nbsp; &nbsp;Though not many live up to their hypes, and it could be for any reason, those who break walls are regarded as the best. One such name is Indian quick Jasprit Bumrah, who has been breaking the internet with his match-winning spells since the start. Lately, his records, spells, and, most importantly, his impact on the game are tearing through everything, paving the way for him to become cricket’s greatest ever.&nbsp; &nbsp;In all 45 Tests played to date, he has made a massive impact. Following breaking countless records on India’s tour of Australia late last year by picking 32 wickets across five matches - the most by any Indian Down Under - Bumrah broke a few more in the Leeds Test against England.&nbsp; &nbsp;With his 14th five-wicket haul in Tests, which included everything from fantastic bowling and great catching, Bumrah went past Wasim Akram and Kapil Dev on separate lists.&nbsp; &nbsp;To conclude, the team effort is all it takes to be successful.&nbsp;

What makes good bowlers great bowlers? Fielding, fellow bowlers or just bowling?

There are quick bowlers, while some are quicker than them; some are just too good, while some get better with time, and then come great bowlers. How are they great? What do they do? Do they have some special skills, or are they born talented? There, of course, remains a vast difference between the regular ones, the good ones and the best ones. For instance, Jasprit Bumrah - he’s India’s greatest ever, not even comparable, and among the best of his generation. Some even call him the most complete bowler in Test history, while those on the internet cannot stop making TikTok edits on his bowling prowess. Also read | IND vs ENG: Placing Anderson’s name ahead of Tendulkar in Trophy renaming saga irks Gavaskar So, what makes him better than others? Are there factors that aid this statement, and if yes, then what are they? Does good fielding help? Of course, it does, and it does big time. Bowlers don’t just clean bowl batters every time or trap them in the middle - they need good fielders placed at the correct position for them to taste success; in another case, should that not happen, bowlers, scorecards, and the bowling team - all suffer. Pick the best bowlers of all time and dig deep into the stats, their teammates, and world-class fielders during that time, and see the difference. Pick any West Indian team from the past, or even English and Australian sides of the late 80s, all consisting of marvellous catchers and fielders. Although it’s always the bowler and his delivery that brings everyone else in the game, the tight slip cordon and those standing on the gully add value to it. Be it Dennis Lillee-Rod Marsh, Malcolm Marshall-Jeffrey Dujon, Glenn McGrath-Adam Gilchrist or even Ian Botham-Robert Taylor, all are among the best bowler-fielder combinations (in Tests) that helped better each other’s records and make them enter history books. Does just good bowling help? It does! It’s the base; only good bowling leads to creating more chances, and those chances convert into wickets. Those playing international cricket are top-notch in their respective divisions and categories and are expected to deliver across all conditions. Though not many live up to their hypes, and it could be for any reason, those who break walls are regarded as the best. One such name is Indian quick Jasprit Bumrah, who has been breaking the internet with his match-winning spells since the start. Lately, his records, spells, and, most importantly, his impact on the game are tearing through everything, paving the way for him to become cricket’s greatest ever. In all 45 Tests played to date, he has made a massive impact. Following breaking countless records on India’s tour of Australia late last year by picking 32 wickets across five matches - the most by any Indian Down Under - Bumrah broke a few more in the Leeds Test against England. With his 14th five-wicket haul in Tests, which included everything from fantastic bowling and great catching, Bumrah went past Wasim Akram and Kapil Dev on separate lists. To conclude, the team effort is all it takes to be successful.

Although it’s always the bowler and his delivery that brings everyone else in the game, the tight slip cordon and those standing on the gully add value to it.

Jasprit Bumrah may have decided to play only three Tests on India's ongoing tour of England due to workload management but that hasn't impacted his belief to make a difference. Speaking at the press conference after after day 3 (Jun 22) of the first Test in Headingley, Bumrah said that people have written him off multiple times but he'll keep believing in himself to try and take India forward. The Indian pacer has made the impact instantly with his five-wicket haul and went past Pakistan great Wasim Akram for most wickets by an Asian bowler in SENA countries (South Africa, England, New Zealand and Australia) as well.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-bumrah-vs-akram-who-is-better-test-bowler-in-sena-countries-1750677613362">Bumrah or Akram? Indian pacer and Pak great are neck-to-neck overall in SENA countries, yet...</a>"I can't control what people write," he said. "Nor am I trying to teach people what to write and what not to write about me. Everybody is free to write what they want. I understand cricket is very popular in our country, and I understand that using my name in the headline boosts the viewership. But at the end of the day, it doesn't matter to me. Because if I let it get into my head, I will start believing it. I need my beliefs and my ways to dictate how I go. Not the way others want me to play."I always wanted to play for India. I played for India on my belief. I have played every format on my belief. I have always heard 'no' from people. First they said 'you won't be able to play'; then they said 'you will last only six months'; then they said 'you will last only eight months', and just like that I have spent ten years in international cricket listening to all this. I have played the IPL for 12-13 years."Even now people keep saying this injury will be it. Keep waiting, I will not think about that. I will keep doing my work. Every three-four months there will be headlines but, let's see, I will play till it is in my destiny. I prepare my best, and leave the rest to god. Whatever good fortune god has given me, I try to carry it forward, and try to take Indian cricket forward."Bumrah will be key for India, even if he plays three Tests, as India look for the first Test series win in England since 2007.

Bumrah will be key for India, even if he plays three out of five Tests on the ongoing tour, as India look for the first Test series win in England since 2007.

Jasprit Bumrah may have decided to play only three Tests on India's ongoing tour of England due to workload management but that hasn't impacted his belief to make a difference. Speaking at the press conference after after day 3 (Jun 22) of the first Test in Headingley, Bumrah said that people have written him off multiple times but he'll keep believing in himself to try and take India forward. The Indian pacer has made the impact instantly with his five-wicket haul and went past Pakistan great Wasim Akram for most wickets by an Asian bowler in SENA countries (South Africa, England, New Zealand and Australia) as well. Also Read - Bumrah or Akram? Indian pacer and Pak great are neck-to-neck overall in SENA countries, yet... "I can't control what people write," he said. "Nor am I trying to teach people what to write and what not to write about me. Everybody is free to write what they want. I understand cricket is very popular in our country, and I understand that using my name in the headline boosts the viewership. But at the end of the day, it doesn't matter to me. Because if I let it get into my head, I will start believing it. I need my beliefs and my ways to dictate how I go. Not the way others want me to play. "I always wanted to play for India. I played for India on my belief. I have played every format on my belief. I have always heard 'no' from people. First they said 'you won't be able to play'; then they said 'you will last only six months'; then they said 'you will last only eight months', and just like that I have spent ten years in international cricket listening to all this. I have played the IPL for 12-13 years. "Even now people keep saying this injury will be it. Keep waiting, I will not think about that. I will keep doing my work. Every three-four months there will be headlines but, let's see, I will play till it is in my destiny. I prepare my best, and leave the rest to god. Whatever good fortune god has given me, I try to carry it forward, and try to take Indian cricket forward." Bumrah will be key for India, even if he plays three Tests, as India look for the first Test series win in England since 2007.

Bumrah will be key for India, even if he plays three out of five Tests on the ongoing tour, as India look for the first Test series win in England since 2007.

IND vs ENG: 'My name in headline boosts viewership,' says Bumrah on constant chatter about his workload and injury

Jasprit Bumrah is arguably the best fast bowler to have played for India ever and his latest five-wicket haul in the first innings of first Test against England put him atop of an elite list. Bumrah now has most wickets by an Asian bowler, pacer or spinner, in SENA (South Africa, Australia, New Zealand and Australia) countries. He surpassed Pakistan great Wasim Akram for the record, who is considered an all-time great bowler to play the game. Bumrah has 150 wickets in SENA countries while Akram has 146 - both of them took 32 Tests to reach the milestone. But is Bumrah really better then Akram? Let's have a look:Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-eng-1st-test-leeds-has-cricket-found-its-most-complete-fast-bowler-in-jasprit-bumrah-ashes-winner-steve-finn-reflects-1750665798590">Has cricket found its most complete fast bowler in Jasprit Bumrah? Ashes winner Finn thinks so</a>Bumrah and Akram may have played equal number of Tests in SENA nations but the Pak great took 55 innings for his 146 wickets while Bumrah took 60 innings to break his record. The Indian pacer, however, took around 1,200 balls fewer then Akram to reach the milestone - Bumrah has bowled 6,810 balls for his 150 wickets at a strike rate (balls per wicket) of 45.4 while Akram bowled 8,137 balls at a strike rate of 55.7 for his 146 wickets.Bumrah's economy of 2.75 and average (runs per wicket) of 22.88 is also better than Akram's economy of 2.59 and average of 24.11. Akram, however, edges Bumrah with 11 five-wicket hauls and three 10-wicket hauls compared to the Indian pacer's 10 five-wicket hauls and no 10-wicket hauls.Coming to head-to-head record in each of these SENA countries:Akram vs Bumrah in Australia - The Indian pacer has 64 wickets Down Under in 12 Tests while the Pak great has 36 wickets in nine matches. Akram has three five-fors in Australia and one 10-for while Bumrah has three five-fors only. Bumrah's strike rate of 39.9 and average of 17.15 is also much better than Akram's strike rate of 58 and average of 24.05.Akram vs Bumrah in England - Akram is ahead of Bumrah in England with 53 wickets in 14 Tests but the Indian pacer isn't far behind with 42 wickets in 10 Tests - if Bumrah manages his form in the series, he may well go past Akram.Akram vs Bumrah in New Zealand - There's not much of a competition with Akram having 50 wickets in seven Tests while Bumrah has just six wickets in two Tests.Akram vs Bumrah in South Africa - Bumrah edges past Akram in SA with 38 wickets in eight Tests while the Pak great has just seven wickets in two Tests.Overall, it's Bumrah and Akram's performance in England which will decided who is better between them and as the numbers stand, Bumrah is on the past of surpass Akram to become greatest Asian bowler in SENA countries.

Overall, it's Bumrah and Akram's performance in England which will decided who is better between them and as the numbers stand, Bumrah is on the past of surpass Akram to become greatest Asian bowler in SENA countries.

Jasprit Bumrah is arguably the best fast bowler to have played for India ever and his latest five-wicket haul in the first innings of first Test against England put him atop of an elite list. Bumrah now has most wickets by an Asian bowler, pacer or spinner, in SENA (South Africa, Australia, New Zealand and Australia) countries. He surpassed Pakistan great Wasim Akram for the record, who is considered an all-time great bowler to play the game. Bumrah has 150 wickets in SENA countries while Akram has 146 - both of them took 32 Tests to reach the milestone. But is Bumrah really better then Akram? Let's have a look: Also Read - Has cricket found its most complete fast bowler in Jasprit Bumrah? Ashes winner Finn thinks so Bumrah and Akram may have played equal number of Tests in SENA nations but the Pak great took 55 innings for his 146 wickets while Bumrah took 60 innings to break his record. The Indian pacer, however, took around 1,200 balls fewer then Akram to reach the milestone - Bumrah has bowled 6,810 balls for his 150 wickets at a strike rate (balls per wicket) of 45.4 while Akram bowled 8,137 balls at a strike rate of 55.7 for his 146 wickets. Bumrah's economy of 2.75 and average (runs per wicket) of 22.88 is also better than Akram's economy of 2.59 and average of 24.11. Akram, however, edges Bumrah with 11 five-wicket hauls and three 10-wicket hauls compared to the Indian pacer's 10 five-wicket hauls and no 10-wicket hauls. Coming to head-to-head record in each of these SENA countries: Akram vs Bumrah in Australia - The Indian pacer has 64 wickets Down Under in 12 Tests while the Pak great has 36 wickets in nine matches. Akram has three five-fors in Australia and one 10-for while Bumrah has three five-fors only. Bumrah's strike rate of 39.9 and average of 17.15 is also much better than Akram's strike rate of 58 and average of 24.05. Akram vs Bumrah in England - Akram is ahead of Bumrah in England with 53 wickets in 14 Tests but the Indian pacer isn't far behind with 42 wickets in 10 Tests - if Bumrah manages his form in the series, he may well go past Akram. Akram vs Bumrah in New Zealand - There's not much of a competition with Akram having 50 wickets in seven Tests while Bumrah has just six wickets in two Tests. Akram vs Bumrah in South Africa - Bumrah edges past Akram in SA with 38 wickets in eight Tests while the Pak great has just seven wickets in two Tests. Overall, it's Bumrah and Akram's performance in England which will decided who is better between them and as the numbers stand, Bumrah is on the past of surpass Akram to become greatest Asian bowler in SENA countries.

Overall, it's Bumrah and Akram's performance in England which will decided who is better between them and as the numbers stand, Bumrah is on the past of surpass Akram to become greatest Asian bowler in SENA countries.

Bumrah or Akram? Indian pacer and Pak great are neck-to-neck overall in SENA countries, yet...

MS Dhoni is India's most successful Test skipper - only behind Virat Kohli. Dhoni led India in 60 Tests and won 27 of them - second most behind Virat Kohli's 40 Test wins in 68 red-ball matches. Dhoni's captaincy skills, however, never worked under overcast English skies on seaming pitches as he lost more Test than any other Indian skipper.Dhoni led India in nine Tests in England and lost seven of them including a 0-4 whitewash on tour of 2011. He managed only one win and one draw during his stint as India captain in England. Is he the least successful Indian Test skipper in England? Let's have a look at the numbers:Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-eng-joe-root-has-more-centuries-than-entire-current-indian-squad-check-stats-inside-1750245180934">IND vs ENG - Joe Root has more centuries than entire current Indian squad - check stats inside</a>Dhoni has more losses than Sourav Ganguly, Rahul Dravid and Virat Kohli combined. Ganguly lost only one Test in four he led in 2002 and India drew that series 1-1. Dravid didn't lose a single Test in three-Test series in 2007 and India won 1-0 - the last Test series victory for India in England.As for Kohli, he also led India in nine Tests in England but managed two losses less than Dhoni - four on tour of 2018 which India lost 1-4 and one loss on tour of 2021/22 which India drew 2-2. The second loss came under Jasprit Bumrah.Kohli, however, has won three Tests as a captain in England - the most by an Indian skipper and one third of India's total nine Test wins in England.Dhoni, meanwhile, wasn't as good as Kohli and managed only one Test win as a captain in England - same as Ganguly and Dravid - but in nine Tests compared to Ganguly's four and Dravid's three.As India begin usher into a new era in Test cricket with Shubman Gill set to lead, it'll be interesting to see how he fares in his test by fire.

Dhoni led India in nine Tests in England and lost seven of them including a 0-4 whitewash on tour of 2011. He managed only one win and one draw during his stint as India captain in England.

MS Dhoni is India's most successful Test skipper - only behind Virat Kohli. Dhoni led India in 60 Tests and won 27 of them - second most behind Virat Kohli's 40 Test wins in 68 red-ball matches. Dhoni's captaincy skills, however, never worked under overcast English skies on seaming pitches as he lost more Test than any other Indian skipper. Dhoni led India in nine Tests in England and lost seven of them including a 0-4 whitewash on tour of 2011. He managed only one win and one draw during his stint as India captain in England. Is he the least successful Indian Test skipper in England? Let's have a look at the numbers: Also Read - IND vs ENG - Joe Root has more centuries than entire current Indian squad - check stats inside Dhoni has more losses than Sourav Ganguly, Rahul Dravid and Virat Kohli combined. Ganguly lost only one Test in four he led in 2002 and India drew that series 1-1. Dravid didn't lose a single Test in three-Test series in 2007 and India won 1-0 - the last Test series victory for India in England. As for Kohli, he also led India in nine Tests in England but managed two losses less than Dhoni - four on tour of 2018 which India lost 1-4 and one loss on tour of 2021/22 which India drew 2-2. The second loss came under Jasprit Bumrah. Kohli, however, has won three Tests as a captain in England - the most by an Indian skipper and one third of India's total nine Test wins in England. Dhoni, meanwhile, wasn't as good as Kohli and managed only one Test win as a captain in England - same as Ganguly and Dravid - but in nine Tests compared to Ganguly's four and Dravid's three. As India begin usher into a new era in Test cricket with Shubman Gill set to lead, it'll be interesting to see how he fares in his test by fire.

Dhoni led India in nine Tests in England and lost seven of them including a 0-4 whitewash on tour of 2011. He managed only one win and one draw during his stint as India captain in England.

Biggest flop as India Test skipper in England? Dhoni lost more matches than Kohli, Dravid and Ganguly combined

Sri Lanka will play just 12 matches in the next WTC cycle, while India is playing 18, and Australia leads the chart with 22 scheduled Tests in the course of the next two years.&nbsp;Considering the finances, engagement and revenue, are behind the Big Three (AUS, IND and ENG) getting the biggest chunk of schedule in red-ball cricket, Mathews, who plays his last Test against Bangladesh starting Tuesday (June 17) in Galle, has batted for more Tests for teams outside of them, labelling it sad for them and the game.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ravichandran-ashwin-locked-in-ball-tampering-controversy-in-tnpl-2025-dindigul-dragons-madurai-panthers-1750078178105">Ravi Ashwin locked in ball-tampering controversy in TNPL 2025; organisers ask Madurai Panthers for proof</a> &nbsp;Let alone in the next WTC cycle (2025-27), where Sri Lanka plays a dozen Tests – the joint-lowest alongside Bangladesh, they are scheduled to play just four matches this year – their lowest in a calendar year since 2013. Playing even fewer games than they did in the previous cycle (2023-25), Mathews feels like those teams have achieved a lot across formats, even Sri Lanka has, and like them, Sri Lanka also deserves to play more matches. &nbsp;"I think it's quite sad, to be honest," Mathews said ahead of the first Test between Sri Lanka and Bangladesh in Galle. "I mean, the younger generation are urging for more Test cricket. Test cricket is obviously the pinnacle of cricket. We all should push for more Tests. These guys are so enthusiastic about Test cricket.&nbsp;"I feel there has to be a minimum of 10 matches at least [in a year]. Teams like England, India or Australia are playing 15-plus games a year. Why can't we play? We can. If we keep pushing, I mean, we have to. We have won World Cups. We have done so much for cricket as a nation, and we deserve to play Test cricket, just like Australia, India and England,” he continued. &nbsp;Although Mathews is not the first and only Sri Lankan to complain about it on a public forum, his decision to retire from the format in which he’s played 118 matches due to this same reason is what concerns Test cricket lovers. &nbsp;"I played my 100th Test in Galle, so I thought I'd say goodbye in Galle. But the main reason was because we don't have any games coming up, at least for now. After this, we'll be having our next assignment in Test cricket after a year's time, that is a very long wait," Mathews noted. &nbsp;"I thought it's good to give an opportunity to whoever is going to replace me in the second Test because he's not going to get an opportunity till the next year (laughs). And in that year, you don't know what's going to happen. So I thought I'd just play one game and then try and give an opportunity to the other guy who's replacing me in the second Test,” he concluded.

SL vs BAN 2025: Angelo Mathews exposes disparity in Test cricket calendar

Sri Lanka will play just 12 matches in the next WTC cycle, while India is playing 18, and Australia leads the chart with 22 scheduled Tests in the course of the next two years. Considering the finances, engagement and revenue, are behind the Big Three (AUS, IND and ENG) getting the biggest chunk of schedule in red-ball cricket, Mathews, who plays his last Test against Bangladesh starting Tuesday (June 17) in Galle, has batted for more Tests for teams outside of them, labelling it sad for them and the game. Also read | Ravi Ashwin locked in ball-tampering controversy in TNPL 2025; organisers ask Madurai Panthers for proof Let alone in the next WTC cycle (2025-27), where Sri Lanka plays a dozen Tests – the joint-lowest alongside Bangladesh, they are scheduled to play just four matches this year – their lowest in a calendar year since 2013. Playing even fewer games than they did in the previous cycle (2023-25), Mathews feels like those teams have achieved a lot across formats, even Sri Lanka has, and like them, Sri Lanka also deserves to play more matches. "I think it's quite sad, to be honest," Mathews said ahead of the first Test between Sri Lanka and Bangladesh in Galle. "I mean, the younger generation are urging for more Test cricket. Test cricket is obviously the pinnacle of cricket. We all should push for more Tests. These guys are so enthusiastic about Test cricket. "I feel there has to be a minimum of 10 matches at least [in a year]. Teams like England, India or Australia are playing 15-plus games a year. Why can't we play? We can. If we keep pushing, I mean, we have to. We have won World Cups. We have done so much for cricket as a nation, and we deserve to play Test cricket, just like Australia, India and England,” he continued. Although Mathews is not the first and only Sri Lankan to complain about it on a public forum, his decision to retire from the format in which he’s played 118 matches due to this same reason is what concerns Test cricket lovers. "I played my 100th Test in Galle, so I thought I'd say goodbye in Galle. But the main reason was because we don't have any games coming up, at least for now. After this, we'll be having our next assignment in Test cricket after a year's time, that is a very long wait," Mathews noted. "I thought it's good to give an opportunity to whoever is going to replace me in the second Test because he's not going to get an opportunity till the next year (laughs). And in that year, you don't know what's going to happen. So I thought I'd just play one game and then try and give an opportunity to the other guy who's replacing me in the second Test,” he concluded.

Let alone in the next WTC cycle (2025-27), where Sri Lanka plays a dozen Tests – the joint-lowest alongside Bangladesh, they are scheduled to play just four matches this year – their lowest in a calendar year since 2013.

India to play 18 Tests, AUS 22 and SL just 12 in next WTC cycle – Mathews exposes disparity in red-ball cricket calendar

There have been many big partnerships in the World Test Championship (WTC) history but surprisingly no Indian pair features in list of top five such instances.

There have been many big partnerships in the World Test Championship (WTC) history but surprisingly no Indian pair features in list of top five such instances.

Highest partnerships in WTC history - Surprisingly, no Indian pair in top five

Karun Nair has seen it all when it comes to his cricketing career - from 303 not out to getting dropped for eight years. With Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma retired, he gets another chance at his cricketing career for India on Test tour of England which begins on June 20. He has already showed his form with a double ton in the first warm up game and is expected to play in the first Test.Commenting on his inclusion, his Karnataka teammate KL Rahul, as reported by the ICC, said: "I've known him for a very long time and the months that he spent here in the UK playing cricket and how hard and how lonely it was for him to be able to do all of that and come back into the Indian Team - I think it's special for him, for his family and for friends like us who've seen his journey."Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/who-is-biggest-show-off-buy-in-ipl-indian-all-rounder-won-titles-with-csk-and-mi-without-playing-a-single-game-with-them-1749718132436">Biggest show-off buy in IPL? Indian all-rounder won titles with CSK and MI without playing a single game with them</a>"It's very inspiring as well and hopefully his experience and his learnings from playing county cricket here will hold him in good stead when he plays the Test matches here (England)," he added.Nair himself was emotional on getting a chance he had asked for on a social media post about two and a half years back. Have a look at the post below which has also been shared by the ICC:

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"It feels very special, very grateful and very fortunate to be able to get this opportunity again," he told the BCCI.tv."Really looking forward and excited to grab this opportunity with both hands."I am sure there will be a lot of feelings – ones that I cannot express right now and it will be a special feeling."Karun will be hoping to reprise what he did the last time he played a Test against England - scoring a historic 303 and becoming only the second Indian to to reach the triple hundred milestone in Tests.

Karun will be hoping to reprise what he did the last time he played a Test against England - scoring a historic 303 and becoming only the second Indian to to reach the triple hundred milestone in Tests.

Karun Nair has seen it all when it comes to his cricketing career - from 303 not out to getting dropped for eight years. With Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma retired, he gets another chance at his cricketing career for India on Test tour of England which begins on June 20. He has already showed his form with a double ton in the first warm up game and is expected to play in the first Test. Commenting on his inclusion, his Karnataka teammate KL Rahul, as reported by the ICC, said: "I've known him for a very long time and the months that he spent here in the UK playing cricket and how hard and how lonely it was for him to be able to do all of that and come back into the Indian Team - I think it's special for him, for his family and for friends like us who've seen his journey." Also Read - Biggest show-off buy in IPL? Indian all-rounder won titles with CSK and MI without playing a single game with them "It's very inspiring as well and hopefully his experience and his learnings from playing county cricket here will hold him in good stead when he plays the Test matches here (England)," he added. Nair himself was emotional on getting a chance he had asked for on a social media post about two and a half years back. Have a look at the post below which has also been shared by the ICC:

Karun will be hoping to reprise what he did the last time he played a Test against England - scoring a historic 303 and becoming only the second Indian to to reach the triple hundred milestone in Tests.

Will Karun Nair be able to withstand Test pressure? Batter gets Karnataka teammate's backing before impending return to cricket

Former New Zealand skipper Kane Williamson has said no to a central contract for the second time in a row. The batter instead will be signing a casual contract which frees him up for the T20 leagues around the world. The announcement came as New Zealand Cricket revealed the list of centrally contracted players on Tuesday (June 3) which did not include Williamson's name.“Just a work in progress and New Zealand Cricket have been great with working with that and I've been fortunate throughout,” Williamson had said about his casual contract in a press conference last month.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/south-african-wicket-keeper-batsman-heinrich-klassen-retires-from-international-cricket-1748857686371">South African wicket-keeper batsman Heinrich Klassen retires from international cricket</a>The former Kiwi skipper is currently playing county cricket in England for Middlesex and is expected to miss two-Test tour of Zimbabwe next month which may end up clashing with his county commitments. He will also take part in The Hundred for London Spirits.Last year, Williamson had played nine of 13 Tests played by New Zealand and had scored more than 1,000 runs. He is considered one of the greatest to ever play for the Blackcaps with 9,276 runs in 105 red-ball games at an average of nearly 55 and 33 tons as well.Williamson is also one of the Fab Four - modern day great batters - along with Aussie Steve Smith, Englishman Joe Root and India's Virat Kohli who retired last month.New Zealand Cricket, meanwhile, has included four new faces in the central contract list including a replacement for veteran bowler Tim Southee who retired in December last year.“The contracts with Mitch, Muhammad, Adi and Zak reflect the incredible talent coming through our system,” New Zealand Cricket chief executive Scott Weenink said as reported by news agency PTI.“These players have shown they can compete at the highest level and their hunger to represent the Black Caps is exciting. We're thrilled to see this group drive our team forward,” he added.

Last year, Williamson had played nine of 13 Tests played by New Zealand and had scored more than 1,000 runs. He is considered one of the greatest to ever play for the Blackcaps with 9,276 runs in 105 red-ball games at an average of nearly 55 and 33 tons as well.

Former New Zealand skipper Kane Williamson has said no to a central contract for the second time in a row. The batter instead will be signing a casual contract which frees him up for the T20 leagues around the world. The announcement came as New Zealand Cricket revealed the list of centrally contracted players on Tuesday (June 3) which did not include Williamson's name. “Just a work in progress and New Zealand Cricket have been great with working with that and I've been fortunate throughout,” Williamson had said about his casual contract in a press conference last month. Also Read - South African wicket-keeper batsman Heinrich Klassen retires from international cricket The former Kiwi skipper is currently playing county cricket in England for Middlesex and is expected to miss two-Test tour of Zimbabwe next month which may end up clashing with his county commitments. He will also take part in The Hundred for London Spirits. Last year, Williamson had played nine of 13 Tests played by New Zealand and had scored more than 1,000 runs. He is considered one of the greatest to ever play for the Blackcaps with 9,276 runs in 105 red-ball games at an average of nearly 55 and 33 tons as well. Williamson is also one of the Fab Four - modern day great batters - along with Aussie Steve Smith, Englishman Joe Root and India's Virat Kohli who retired last month. New Zealand Cricket, meanwhile, has included four new faces in the central contract list including a replacement for veteran bowler Tim Southee who retired in December last year. “The contracts with Mitch, Muhammad, Adi and Zak reflect the incredible talent coming through our system,” New Zealand Cricket chief executive Scott Weenink said as reported by news agency PTI. “These players have shown they can compete at the highest level and their hunger to represent the Black Caps is exciting. We're thrilled to see this group drive our team forward,” he added.

Last year, Williamson had played nine of 13 Tests played by New Zealand and had scored more than 1,000 runs. He is considered one of the greatest to ever play for the Blackcaps with 9,276 runs in 105 red-ball games at an average of nearly 55 and 33 tons as well.

Ex-Kiwi skipper Kane Williamson declines to sign central contract for New Zealand - Here's why

Ravindra Jadeja has been around for a long time and the all-rounder is an integral part of the Indian Test set up for nearly a decade. After Rohit Sharma decided to retire from Test cricket earlier this month with Virat Kohli following the suit, Jadeja may have thought about leading the side, at least on interim basis, with India set to tour England for five Tests next month.The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), however, named Shubman Gill as Rohit successor in Test with Rishabh Pant being his deputy. Before the announcement was made, Jadeja had a candid chat with Ravi Ashwin - his longtime spin partner in Tests about the same.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-am-not-coach-gambhir-breaks-silence-on-shreyas-iyer-snub-from-india-squad-for-england-tests-1748506834686">'I am not...,' Coach Gambhir breaks silence on Shreyas Iyer's snub from India squad for England Tests</a>"Yes, definitely," said Jaddu, as he is fondly called, when asked if he's ever had captaincy aspirations."See, what I feel is that over the years, I have played under different captains. I know the mindset of every single captain that I have played under. Every captain has a different mindset on how he wants to run the team. For example MS Dhoni, I have played under him in every format. His thinking is very simple. If he feels that a batter can hit in that region, he will simply take a fielder there. He wants to make them uncomfortable by not putting a fielder where they can't hit," he added.Jadeja had briefly led Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in IPL but the stint was cut short after the team suffered a string of losses and MS Dhoni was reinstated. Jadeja explained the difference between leading a T20 side and Test side during the chat as well."In Test cricket, you have to change two-three fielder as per the need of the bowler. Captaincy in Test cricket is different. It's simple, but calculative. It's not complicated like IPL of T20Is. In T20s, every ball is an event. Test cricket is not that hectic," he added.

Jadeja had briefly led Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in IPL 2022 but the stint was cut short after the team suffered a string of losses and MS Dhoni was reinstated.

Ravindra Jadeja has been around for a long time and the all-rounder is an integral part of the Indian Test set up for nearly a decade. After Rohit Sharma decided to retire from Test cricket earlier this month with Virat Kohli following the suit, Jadeja may have thought about leading the side, at least on interim basis, with India set to tour England for five Tests next month. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), however, named Shubman Gill as Rohit successor in Test with Rishabh Pant being his deputy. Before the announcement was made, Jadeja had a candid chat with Ravi Ashwin - his longtime spin partner in Tests about the same. Also Read - 'I am not...,' Coach Gambhir breaks silence on Shreyas Iyer's snub from India squad for England Tests "Yes, definitely," said Jaddu, as he is fondly called, when asked if he's ever had captaincy aspirations. "See, what I feel is that over the years, I have played under different captains. I know the mindset of every single captain that I have played under. Every captain has a different mindset on how he wants to run the team. For example MS Dhoni, I have played under him in every format. His thinking is very simple. If he feels that a batter can hit in that region, he will simply take a fielder there. He wants to make them uncomfortable by not putting a fielder where they can't hit," he added. Jadeja had briefly led Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in IPL but the stint was cut short after the team suffered a string of losses and MS Dhoni was reinstated. Jadeja explained the difference between leading a T20 side and Test side during the chat as well. "In Test cricket, you have to change two-three fielder as per the need of the bowler. Captaincy in Test cricket is different. It's simple, but calculative. It's not complicated like IPL of T20Is. In T20s, every ball is an event. Test cricket is not that hectic," he added.

Jadeja had briefly led Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in IPL 2022 but the stint was cut short after the team suffered a string of losses and MS Dhoni was reinstated.

'Yes, definitely,' says Jadeja on being asked he thought to lead India

India head coach Gautam Gambhir has reacted to sudden retirement of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli from Test cricket. The duo, who retired in a week of each other earlier this month, has left a huge gap in India's batting line up. The coach, however, acknowledges that retiring is an 'individual decision.'"I think, when you start the game and when you want to finish, it's a very individual decision. No one has the right," said Gambhir while talking to Cricket Next."Be it the coach, the selector, be it anyone in this country, has any right to tell someone when to retire and when not to retire. So it comes from within," he added.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/marsh-brothers-shaun-115-and-mitchell-117-become-only-sibling-duo-to-score-hundreds-in-ipl-history-1747988581871">'Got the golden ticket': Marsh brothers, Shaun and Mitchell, become only sibling duo to score hundreds in IPL history</a>Gambhir also acknowledged that 'it'll be tough for India' when they travel to England next month for five-Test series. The coach, however, was confident of other players standing up just like they did in Champions Trophy in absence of Jasprit Bumrah."Yes, we've got to be without two senior players. And sometimes I believe that it's the opportunity for some other people to put their hand up and say, Okay, I'm ready for it. So yes, it will be tough, but then there'll be people putting their hand up for sure because this question was asked to me before," Gambhir said."Champions Trophy as well. When Jasprit Bumrah wasn't there, I said exactly the same thing: someone missing out might give another person an opportunity to do something special for the country. Hopefully, there'll be other guys waiting for that opportunity," he added.Rohit announced his retirement on May 7 while Kohli stepped away on May 12. In addition to them, veteran spinner Ravi Ashwin had also announced his retirement immediately after the Test tour of Australia earlier this year.India would be very different team on England tour with a new captain and a couple of new batters in the middle order.

Rohit announced his retirement on May 7 while Kohli stepped away on May 12. In addition to them, veteran spinner Ravi Ashwin had also announced his retirement immediately after the Test tour of Australia earlier this year.

India head coach Gautam Gambhir has reacted to sudden retirement of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli from Test cricket. The duo, who retired in a week of each other earlier this month, has left a huge gap in India's batting line up. The coach, however, acknowledges that retiring is an 'individual decision.' "I think, when you start the game and when you want to finish, it's a very individual decision. No one has the right," said Gambhir while talking to Cricket Next. "Be it the coach, the selector, be it anyone in this country, has any right to tell someone when to retire and when not to retire. So it comes from within," he added. Also Read - 'Got the golden ticket': Marsh brothers, Shaun and Mitchell, become only sibling duo to score hundreds in IPL history Gambhir also acknowledged that 'it'll be tough for India' when they travel to England next month for five-Test series. The coach, however, was confident of other players standing up just like they did in Champions Trophy in absence of Jasprit Bumrah. "Yes, we've got to be without two senior players. And sometimes I believe that it's the opportunity for some other people to put their hand up and say, Okay, I'm ready for it. So yes, it will be tough, but then there'll be people putting their hand up for sure because this question was asked to me before," Gambhir said. "Champions Trophy as well. When Jasprit Bumrah wasn't there, I said exactly the same thing: someone missing out might give another person an opportunity to do something special for the country. Hopefully, there'll be other guys waiting for that opportunity," he added. Rohit announced his retirement on May 7 while Kohli stepped away on May 12. In addition to them, veteran spinner Ravi Ashwin had also announced his retirement immediately after the Test tour of Australia earlier this year. India would be very different team on England tour with a new captain and a couple of new batters in the middle order.

Rohit announced his retirement on May 7 while Kohli stepped away on May 12. In addition to them, veteran spinner Ravi Ashwin had also announced his retirement immediately after the Test tour of Australia earlier this year.

India coach Gambhir opens up on Test retirement of Virat and Rohit, says 'very individual decision'

Rohit Sharma opted out of the fifth and final Test, of the 2024-25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT), between India and Australia, which got underway at the SCG, Sydney, on Friday (Jan 3). The Indian captain was 'rested' amid criticism for his poor form in the series Down Under. With Hitman opting out, former Indian opener Sunil Gavaskar made a bold claim, saying 'he has played his last Test'.
<h2>'To me, it looks that the Melbourne Test would be Rohit Sharma's last'</h2>
Gavaskar said on Star Sports, "I think what it probably means is that India don't qualify for the World Test Championship final. To me, it looks that the Melbourne Test would be Rohit Sharma's last game. The new cycle of the World Test Championship will start from the England series, so they will look to have somebody who will be available for 2027 final. Whether India gets to the final or not is another matter, but I think that's what the selection committee will do. Therefore maybe we've probably seen Rohit Sharma for the last time in Test cricket."
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<div class="recommended__story">Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ravi-shastri-expects-rested-rohit-sharma-to-take-call-on-test-career-post-bgt-final-at-scg-8587014" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">BGT: Shastri expects Rohit to take call on Test career after SCG game</a></div>
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"At the end of the day he's also part of the selection committee. What happens in Indian cricket is there is a selection committee which chooses the squad to go to travel overseas. Then when you come overseas, the captain, the coach, and I think if there's one selector, they generally form the selection committee. I believe the chairman of the selection committee, Ajit Agarar here in town, so he would have been part of the call that was taken. Maybe some of the senior players in the team would have been asked," Gavaskar further added.
Rohit has had a poor run in the five-match series in Australia.
He missed the BGT 2024-25 series opener, which India won in Perth under vice-captain Jasprit Bumrah.
Since he came back, things went downhill for the visitors. Rohit was criticised for his captaincy calls and scores of 3, 6, 10, 3 and 9 in the series. In 2024, he ended with 619 runs in Tests, at an average of 24.76.&nbsp;
Former India head coach Ravi Shastri also opined on Rohit.
He said on Star Sports, "If there was a home season coming up, he might have thought of carrying on, but I think he might just pull the plug at the end of this Test. He's not getting younger, he's 38 years of age. It's not that India don't have youngsters, there are some very, very good players in the wings, and it's time to build. It's a tough decision, but there's a time for everything."
In 67 Tests, Rohit has 4,301 runs at an average of 40.57 with 12 centuries and 18 half-centuries under his belt.
Talking about the ongoing BGT, Bumrah is leading India in the series finale with the visitors trailing 2-1 with a need of a win to end the series at 2-2.
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Cricket | Sports | Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25: Rohit Sharma has played his last Test in Melbourne - Sunil Gavaskar's BOLD claim during Day 1 of SCG encounter 

Rohit Sharma opted out of the fifth and final Test, of the 2024-25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT), between India and Australia, which got underway at the SCG, Sydney, on Friday (Jan 3). The Indian captain was 'rested' amid criticism for his poor form in the series Down Under. With Hitman opting out, former Indian opener Sunil Gavaskar made a bold claim, saying 'he has played his last Test'. 'To me, it looks that the Melbourne Test would be Rohit Sharma's last' Gavaskar said on Star Sports, "I think what it probably means is that India don't qualify for the World Test Championship final. To me, it looks that the Melbourne Test would be Rohit Sharma's last game. The new cycle of the World Test Championship will start from the England series, so they will look to have somebody who will be available for 2027 final. Whether India gets to the final or not is another matter, but I think that's what the selection committee will do. Therefore maybe we've probably seen Rohit Sharma for the last time in Test cricket." Also read: BGT: Shastri expects Rohit to take call on Test career after SCG game "At the end of the day he's also part of the selection committee. What happens in Indian cricket is there is a selection committee which chooses the squad to go to travel overseas. Then when you come overseas, the captain, the coach, and I think if there's one selector, they generally form the selection committee. I believe the chairman of the selection committee, Ajit Agarar here in town, so he would have been part of the call that was taken. Maybe some of the senior players in the team would have been asked," Gavaskar further added. Rohit has had a poor run in the five-match series in Australia. He missed the BGT 2024-25 series opener, which India won in Perth under vice-captain Jasprit Bumrah. Since he came back, things went downhill for the visitors. Rohit was criticised for his captaincy calls and scores of 3, 6, 10, 3 and 9 in the series. In 2024, he ended with 619 runs in Tests, at an average of 24.76. Former India head coach Ravi Shastri also opined on Rohit. He said on Star Sports, "If there was a home season coming up, he might have thought of carrying on, but I think he might just pull the plug at the end of this Test. He's not getting younger, he's 38 years of age. It's not that India don't have youngsters, there are some very, very good players in the wings, and it's time to build. It's a tough decision, but there's a time for everything." In 67 Tests, Rohit has 4,301 runs at an average of 40.57 with 12 centuries and 18 half-centuries under his belt. Talking about the ongoing BGT, Bumrah is leading India in the series finale with the visitors trailing 2-1 with a need of a win to end the series at 2-2.

BGT: Rohit Sharma has played his last Test in Melbourne - Sunil Gavaskar's BOLD claim

Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli departed for cheap in India's 340-run chase versus Australia on Day 5 of the fourth and penultimate Test, of the 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT), at the MCG, Melbourne on Monday (Dec 30). Apart from a hundred, Kohli has struggled in the five-match series whereas captain Rohit has had a torrid run in Tests in 2024. Hence, former India coach Ravi Shastri opined on the duo's red-ball future.
<h2>'Virat will play 3-4 more years, it's a call for Rohit'</h2>
Shastri told the broadcaster Star Sports during Day 5's proceedings, at the MCG, Melbourne, "No, I think Virat Kohli will play. Virat will play for some time, forget the way he got out today. I think he will play for 3 or 4 more years."
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/india-chances-for-wtc-final-2025-qualification-scenarios-for-india-wtc-scenario-chances-8575746" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">WTC Final 2025: India's qualification chances and scenarios | Read</a>
"As far as Rohit is concerned, it&rsquo;s a call. At the top of the order, his footwork isn&rsquo;t the same. He is probably, at times, a little late in meeting the ball. So it&rsquo;s his call at the end of the series," Shastri added.
Rohit has had scores of 3, 6, 10, 3 and 9 in the ongoing BGT in Australia. Kohli, meanwhile, has scores of 5, 7, 11, 3, 36 and 5 apart from a 100*. Both have struggled in whites in 2024. While Rohit ended the calendar year with 619 runs at an average of 24.76, Kohli fared poorly as well -- 417 runs in 10 Tests, averaging 24.52 in 2024.
Rohit and Kohli fell for 9 and 5, respectively, in India's tall run-chase of 340 in the MCG Test on Day 5. At the time of publishing this report, India are 99-3 in 48 overs with Yashasvi Jaiswal and Rishabh Pant batting well in the middle.
The 2024/25 BGT is currently tied at 1-1 with one more Test to play.

Border-Gavaskar Trophy: 'Virat Kohli can play 3 to 4 more years, for Rohit Sharma....' - Ravi Shastri on Indian duo's Test future after flop show in MCG Test

Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli departed for cheap in India's 340-run chase versus Australia on Day 5 of the fourth and penultimate Test, of the 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT), at the MCG, Melbourne on Monday (Dec 30). Apart from a hundred, Kohli has struggled in the five-match series whereas captain Rohit has had a torrid run in Tests in 2024. Hence, former India coach Ravi Shastri opined on the duo's red-ball future. 'Virat will play 3-4 more years, it's a call for Rohit' Shastri told the broadcaster Star Sports during Day 5's proceedings, at the MCG, Melbourne, "No, I think Virat Kohli will play. Virat will play for some time, forget the way he got out today. I think he will play for 3 or 4 more years." Also read: WTC Final 2025: India's qualification chances and scenarios | Read "As far as Rohit is concerned, it’s a call. At the top of the order, his footwork isn’t the same. He is probably, at times, a little late in meeting the ball. So it’s his call at the end of the series," Shastri added. Rohit has had scores of 3, 6, 10, 3 and 9 in the ongoing BGT in Australia. Kohli, meanwhile, has scores of 5, 7, 11, 3, 36 and 5 apart from a 100*. Both have struggled in whites in 2024. While Rohit ended the calendar year with 619 runs at an average of 24.76, Kohli fared poorly as well -- 417 runs in 10 Tests, averaging 24.52 in 2024. Rohit and Kohli fell for 9 and 5, respectively, in India's tall run-chase of 340 in the MCG Test on Day 5. At the time of publishing this report, India are 99-3 in 48 overs with Yashasvi Jaiswal and Rishabh Pant batting well in the middle. The 2024/25 BGT is currently tied at 1-1 with one more Test to play.

BGT: 'Kohli can play 3 to 4 more years, for Rohit....' - Shastri on Indian duo's Test future after flop show in MCG Test

Former England skipper Michael Atherton believes home team India will emerge victorious in the upcoming five-Test series against touring English side. The comments come as the teams gear up for the first Test which starts on January 25 in Hyderabad. Atherton also said that the difference would be the spinners of both teams and India have better options.

“I think India will win. Their spinners are better than England’s and that will be the defining thing in the end,” Atherton told Sky Sports.

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“If you go to India, spin will play a big part, it historically has done and I suspect it always will do. India do have a very strong seam attack as well."

“India’s four spinners are very different to England’s. They have two left-arm finger spinners in Ravindra Jadeja and Axar Patel. They have a wrist spinner in Kuldeep Yadav and Ravichandran Ashwin is one of the greatest spinners of all time,” Atherton said.

“England have a solid left-arm spinner in Jack Leach and then three very inexperienced spinners after that with Tom Hartley, Shoaib Bashir and Rehan Ahmed. It will be a particular challenge for them but the selectors see a high ceiling for them,” he added.

<h2>Virat Kohli pulls out of first two Tests</h2>

India batter <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/india-batter-virat-kohli-withdraws-from-first-two-tests-against-england-682452">Virat Kohli has withdrawn from the first two Tests</a> of upcoming home series against England, announced the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) in a release on Monday (Jan 22). The board has cited personal reasons for Kohli's withdrawal from the series.&nbsp;

A replacement will be named in due course, confirmed the BCCI.

On January 21, England batter Harry Brook had also pulled out of the tour due to personal reasons. The England Cricket Board (ECB) named Dan Lawrence as his replacement in the side.

Former England skipper Michael Atherton believes home team India will emerge victorious in the upcoming five-Test series against touring English side. The comments come as the teams gear up for the first Test which starts on January 25 in Hyderabad.

Former England skipper Michael Atherton believes home team India will emerge victorious in the upcoming five-Test series against touring English side. The comments come as the teams gear up for the first Test which starts on January 25 in Hyderabad. Atherton also said that the difference would be the spinners of both teams and India have better options. “I think India will win. Their spinners are better than England’s and that will be the defining thing in the end,” Atherton told Sky Sports. Also Read: Cricket Australia investigating hospitalization incident involving Glenn Maxwell “If you go to India, spin will play a big part, it historically has done and I suspect it always will do. India do have a very strong seam attack as well." “India’s four spinners are very different to England’s. They have two left-arm finger spinners in Ravindra Jadeja and Axar Patel. They have a wrist spinner in Kuldeep Yadav and Ravichandran Ashwin is one of the greatest spinners of all time,” Atherton said. “England have a solid left-arm spinner in Jack Leach and then three very inexperienced spinners after that with Tom Hartley, Shoaib Bashir and Rehan Ahmed. It will be a particular challenge for them but the selectors see a high ceiling for them,” he added. Virat Kohli pulls out of first two Tests India batter Virat Kohli has withdrawn from the first two Tests of upcoming home series against England, announced the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) in a release on Monday (Jan 22). The board has cited personal reasons for Kohli's withdrawal from the series. A replacement will be named in due course, confirmed the BCCI. On January 21, England batter Harry Brook had also pulled out of the tour due to personal reasons. The England Cricket Board (ECB) named Dan Lawrence as his replacement in the side.

Former England skipper Michael Atherton predicts India as winner of upcoming Test series

India spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has hit back at former England skipper Michael Vaughan for calling the current Indian team an underachieving side. Vaughan's comments had come during the recently concluded Australia-Pakistan Test series.&nbsp;

"They haven't won much in recent times. I think they are (an underachieving side). They don't win anything. When was the last time they won something? With all the talent they have, all the skill-set (they should have achieved more," Vaughan said on Fox Sports while commentating during the second Australia-Pakistan Test.

The Indian off-spinner, in reply has asserted that India, especially in Tests, is one of the best travelling teams in the current times.&nbsp;

Taking to his YouTube channel, Ashwin said,&nbsp;"Yes, we haven't won ICC trophies for years. We call ourselves the powerhouses of the game. But the Test team has been one of the best traveling teams in the vicinity. We have seen many great results.”

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/england-player-jonny-bairstow-sets-being-fit-and-firing-as-priority-on-upcoming-india-tour-677368">England player Jonny Bairstow sets 'being fit and firing' as priority on upcoming India tour</a>

Ashwin's statement is valid as India are the only side to beat Australia in Australia in Tests since 2016. India is also the only Asian team ever to win a Test series Down Under which they did twice, in 2018 and 2020. India has also been to two World Test Championship (WTC) finals in as many editions. They, however, failed to win on both occasions - first against New Zealand (2021) then versus Australia (2023).

Vaughan's comments, however,&nbsp;had&nbsp;some backing as India have failed to win a silverware in a long time. The last time India won an ICC tournament was in 2013 when they had lifted the Champions Trophy under erstwhile skipper MS Dhoni.

Most recently, India drew a two-Test series in South Africa 1-1. Rohit Sharma-led side had lost the first Test by an innings and 32 runs in Centurion before winning the next one in Cape Town.

Speaking on the same, Ashwin said: "Just reverse the situation. SA batted first in this Test after winning the toss. If SA had batted first after winning the toss in Centurion, wasn't there a chance they could have gotten all out by 65? Even India was staring at the barrel at 20/3, thanks to Virat and Shreyas' partnership from there to save us.”

India's next Test assignment is a five-match series against England at home which starts on January 25.

India spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has hit back at former England skipper Michael Vaughan for calling the current Indian team an underachieving side. Vaughan's comments had come during the recently concluded Australia-Pakistan Test series.

India spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has hit back at former England skipper Michael Vaughan for calling the current Indian team an underachieving side. Vaughan's comments had come during the recently concluded Australia-Pakistan Test series. "They haven't won much in recent times. I think they are (an underachieving side). They don't win anything. When was the last time they won something? With all the talent they have, all the skill-set (they should have achieved more," Vaughan said on Fox Sports while commentating during the second Australia-Pakistan Test. The Indian off-spinner, in reply has asserted that India, especially in Tests, is one of the best travelling teams in the current times. Taking to his YouTube channel, Ashwin said, "Yes, we haven't won ICC trophies for years. We call ourselves the powerhouses of the game. But the Test team has been one of the best traveling teams in the vicinity. We have seen many great results.” Also Read: England player Jonny Bairstow sets 'being fit and firing' as priority on upcoming India tour Ashwin's statement is valid as India are the only side to beat Australia in Australia in Tests since 2016. India is also the only Asian team ever to win a Test series Down Under which they did twice, in 2018 and 2020. India has also been to two World Test Championship (WTC) finals in as many editions. They, however, failed to win on both occasions - first against New Zealand (2021) then versus Australia (2023). Vaughan's comments, however, had some backing as India have failed to win a silverware in a long time. The last time India won an ICC tournament was in 2013 when they had lifted the Champions Trophy under erstwhile skipper MS Dhoni. Most recently, India drew a two-Test series in South Africa 1-1. Rohit Sharma-led side had lost the first Test by an innings and 32 runs in Centurion before winning the next one in Cape Town. Speaking on the same, Ashwin said: "Just reverse the situation. SA batted first in this Test after winning the toss. If SA had batted first after winning the toss in Centurion, wasn't there a chance they could have gotten all out by 65? Even India was staring at the barrel at 20/3, thanks to Virat and Shreyas' partnership from there to save us.” India's next Test assignment is a five-match series against England at home which starts on January 25.

India are powerhouse: Ravi Ashwin slams ex-England skipper Michael Vaughan for 'underachieving side' comment

India skipper Rohit Sharma has defended the bowlers after the humiliating defeat in the Boxing Day Test against South Africa in Centurion. The game lasted just three days, with India losing by an innings and 32 runs. Sharma, speaking at the post-match presentation, said that the bowlers did try their best but it just didn't work.

"Bumrah bowled well," Rohit said. "We all know his quality. All he wanted was a bit of support from the other side, which he didn't get. To be honest, that happens (once in a while).

"All the other three bowlers, they were trying really hard, bending their back, but it just didn't work out. Didn't happen the way we would have wanted to. But again, games like this teach you a lot of things, what you need to do as a group, as a bowling group. Hopefully, they can understand what went wrong, and then try and come back a little stronger from this game," he added.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/haris-rauf-should-have-played-tests-vs-australia-instead-of-bbl-says-former-pak-skipper-shahid-afridi-674540">'Haris Rauf should have played Tests vs Australia instead of BBL,' says former Pak skipper Shahid Afridi</a>

India batted decently in the first innings, scoring 245 runs in tricky conditions, thanks largely to KL Rahul's eighth Test century. The bowlers, however, couldn't capitalise despite the conditions being friendly. While Bumrah and Siraj largely looked unplayable, they couldn't draw many edges and the pressure couldn't be built from the other side - especially by Prasidh Krishna.

Rohit, nonetheless, defended Krishna who made his debut for India in the whites but agreed that the inexperience was there.

"Look, a little bit inexperience, of course, but he has got the tools to come out here and play the game," the skipper said.&nbsp;

"Prasidh has been with the Indian team. Not around the Test team, but he has played a lot of white-ball cricket for us in the last two or three years, and he has shown that he has got a lot of potential. Obviously, it didn't work out well for him playing his first game, but we all were nervous when we played our first game," he added.

The second and final Test between South Africa and India starts on January 3 in Cape Town. 
&nbsp;

India skipper Rohit Sharma has defended the bowlers after the humiliating defeat in the Boxing Day Test against South Africa in Centurion. The game lasted just three days, with India losing by an innings and 32 runs.

India skipper Rohit Sharma has defended the bowlers after the humiliating defeat in the Boxing Day Test against South Africa in Centurion. The game lasted just three days, with India losing by an innings and 32 runs. Sharma, speaking at the post-match presentation, said that the bowlers did try their best but it just didn't work. "Bumrah bowled well," Rohit said. "We all know his quality. All he wanted was a bit of support from the other side, which he didn't get. To be honest, that happens (once in a while). "All the other three bowlers, they were trying really hard, bending their back, but it just didn't work out. Didn't happen the way we would have wanted to. But again, games like this teach you a lot of things, what you need to do as a group, as a bowling group. Hopefully, they can understand what went wrong, and then try and come back a little stronger from this game," he added. Also Read: 'Haris Rauf should have played Tests vs Australia instead of BBL,' says former Pak skipper Shahid Afridi India batted decently in the first innings, scoring 245 runs in tricky conditions, thanks largely to KL Rahul's eighth Test century. The bowlers, however, couldn't capitalise despite the conditions being friendly. While Bumrah and Siraj largely looked unplayable, they couldn't draw many edges and the pressure couldn't be built from the other side - especially by Prasidh Krishna. Rohit, nonetheless, defended Krishna who made his debut for India in the whites but agreed that the inexperience was there. "Look, a little bit inexperience, of course, but he has got the tools to come out here and play the game," the skipper said. "Prasidh has been with the Indian team. Not around the Test team, but he has played a lot of white-ball cricket for us in the last two or three years, and he has shown that he has got a lot of potential. Obviously, it didn't work out well for him playing his first game, but we all were nervous when we played our first game," he added. The second and final Test between South Africa and India starts on January 3 in Cape Town.

'Bumrah needed support but didn't get it,' says India skipper Rohit Sharma after loss in first Test vs SA

DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai is all set to host India women's first Test since 2014 during England's tour of India in December. The lone Test on the tour which also comprises three T20Is will begin from December 6. The development was first reported by ESPNCricinfo.

England women last toured India in 2019 when they lost three-match ODI series 2-1 but won the three-T20I series 3-0. Mumbai's iconic Wankhede Stadium will host three T20Is on 6, 9 and 10 December for the upcoming tour. The Test will be played from December 14-17. ESPNCricinfo also reported that the tour will be held in the state of Maharashtra only. The dates, however, are still being finalised.

Speaking to ESPNCricinfo, England women team seamer Kate Cross said: "The opportunity to come and play a Test match in India is bucket-list stuff for a lot of players."&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/former-spinner-danish-kaneria-claims-this-player-is-in-pakistan-team-because-of-friendships-651567">Former spinner Danish Kaneria claims THIS player is in Pakistan team because of FRIENDSHIPS</a>

Cross is currently in India as a commentator for the ODI World Cup 2023.&nbsp;

"I've been in India for a couple of weeks now and you can see that girls have role models in that team now," she further added.

Speaking on her previous experience about playing in India, Cross recalled: "We played in front of over 12,000 people in Guwahati. The chance to come back here and play as an England team again is going to be special."

With the launch of Women's Premier League (WPL) earlier this year, many foreign players, including England's, now have the experience of playing in India and the league also helped the game grow in India.

"The WPL has obviously helped with the growth of the women's game. After the summer we've just had with the Ashes, you want to be playing in front of big crowds and there is an appetite for the women's game in India that just keeps growing. If it's well advertised, people will come and watch," added Cross.

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DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai is all set to host India women's first Test since 2014 during England's tour of India in December. The lone Test on the tour which also comprises three T20Is will begin from December 6.

DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai is all set to host India women's first Test since 2014 during England's tour of India in December. The lone Test on the tour which also comprises three T20Is will begin from December 6. The development was first reported by ESPNCricinfo. England women last toured India in 2019 when they lost three-match ODI series 2-1 but won the three-T20I series 3-0. Mumbai's iconic Wankhede Stadium will host three T20Is on 6, 9 and 10 December for the upcoming tour. The Test will be played from December 14-17. ESPNCricinfo also reported that the tour will be held in the state of Maharashtra only. The dates, however, are still being finalised. Speaking to ESPNCricinfo, England women team seamer Kate Cross said: "The opportunity to come and play a Test match in India is bucket-list stuff for a lot of players." Also Read: Former spinner Danish Kaneria claims THIS player is in Pakistan team because of FRIENDSHIPS Cross is currently in India as a commentator for the ODI World Cup 2023. "I've been in India for a couple of weeks now and you can see that girls have role models in that team now," she further added. Speaking on her previous experience about playing in India, Cross recalled: "We played in front of over 12,000 people in Guwahati. The chance to come back here and play as an England team again is going to be special." With the launch of Women's Premier League (WPL) earlier this year, many foreign players, including England's, now have the experience of playing in India and the league also helped the game grow in India. "The WPL has obviously helped with the growth of the women's game. After the summer we've just had with the Ashes, you want to be playing in front of big crowds and there is an appetite for the women's game in India that just keeps growing. If it's well advertised, people will come and watch," added Cross. 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.

DY Patil to host only Test between India women and England women in December - Report

Indian off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin on Wednesday became the first Indian bowler to dismiss both father and son in Test cricket. On the first day of India's first Test against West Indies on Wednesday, Ashwin achieved the record by getting the wicket of Tagnarine Chanderpaul at 12 (44). He had previously taken the wicket of Tagnarine's father and West Indian legend Shivnarine Chanderpaul.

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Apart from Ashwin, former England cricketer,&nbsp;Ian Botham is also on the list, dismissing father-son pair Lance and Chris Cairns of New Zealand.&nbsp;Pakistani pacer Wasim Akram also took the wicket of the same pair in his career. Australian bowlers Mitchell Starc and Simon Harmer have also taken the wickets of Shivnarine and Tagnarine Chanderpaul.

Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin also became the third Indian bowler to pick up 700 international wickets. He dominated the first session of Day One by taking two wickets in the opening test match against West Indies in Dominica. This played a major role in the hosts' downfall as West Indies bundled out on a score of 150. In reply to the hosts' total, India's openers started the innings on a positive note.

<h2>Bowlers who have dismissed&nbsp;both father and son in Test cricket</h2>

Ian Botham - Lance and Chris Cairns 
Wasim Akram - Lance and Chris Cairns 
Mitchell Starc - Shivnarine and Tagnarine 
Simon Harmer - Shivnarine and Tagnarine 
Ravichandran Ashwin - Shivnarine and Tagnarine

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-wi-1st-test-ravichandran-ashwin-heaps-praise-on-yashasvi-jaiswal-young-star-says-he-is-very-vibrant-614918">IND vs WI 1st Test: Ravichandran Ashwin heaps praise on THIS young star, says 'he is very vibrant'</a>

Despite a couple of early LBW shouts against Rohit, India's opening stand didn't face issues in the third session. Yashasvi Jaiswal took his time to open his account, but as soon as he adjusted himself to the pitch conditions, he started to take on the bowlers with confidence. He opened his account with a beautifully executed shot to find the fence for a four. He tried to find the boundary once again with another shot but the fielder denied him&nbsp;back-to-back boundaries.

Rohit, on the other hand, looked confident with his shot selection and defensive approach for the majority of the third session. West Indies bowlers, however, struggled to find consistency in their line and length. This became evident after their review for an LBW appeal against Rohit Sharma was denied by the umpire.&nbsp;Both players will be keen to convert their ominous starts into big scores on Day 2.

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Indian off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin on Wednesday became the first Indian bowler to dismiss both father and son in Test cricket. On the first day of India's first Test against West Indies on Wednesday, Ashwin achieved the record by getting the wicket of Tagnarine Chanderpaul at 12 (44).

Indian off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin on Wednesday became the first Indian bowler to dismiss both father and son in Test cricket. On the first day of India's first Test against West Indies on Wednesday, Ashwin achieved the record by getting the wicket of Tagnarine Chanderpaul at 12 (44). He had previously taken the wicket of Tagnarine's father and West Indian legend Shivnarine Chanderpaul. 🚨 Milestone Alert 🚨 7⃣0⃣0⃣ wickets in international cricket for @ashwinravi99! 👌 👌 Well done! 👏👏 Follow the match ▶️ https://t.co/FWI05P4Bnd #TeamIndia | #WIvIND pic.twitter.com/P6u5w7yhNa — BCCI (@BCCI) July 12, 2023 × Apart from Ashwin, former England cricketer, Ian Botham is also on the list, dismissing father-son pair Lance and Chris Cairns of New Zealand. Pakistani pacer Wasim Akram also took the wicket of the same pair in his career. Australian bowlers Mitchell Starc and Simon Harmer have also taken the wickets of Shivnarine and Tagnarine Chanderpaul. Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin also became the third Indian bowler to pick up 700 international wickets. He dominated the first session of Day One by taking two wickets in the opening test match against West Indies in Dominica. This played a major role in the hosts' downfall as West Indies bundled out on a score of 150. In reply to the hosts' total, India's openers started the innings on a positive note. Bowlers who have dismissed both father and son in Test cricket Ian Botham - Lance and Chris Cairns Wasim Akram - Lance and Chris Cairns Mitchell Starc - Shivnarine and Tagnarine Simon Harmer - Shivnarine and Tagnarine Ravichandran Ashwin - Shivnarine and Tagnarine Also Read: IND vs WI 1st Test: Ravichandran Ashwin heaps praise on THIS young star, says 'he is very vibrant' Despite a couple of early LBW shouts against Rohit, India's opening stand didn't face issues in the third session. Yashasvi Jaiswal took his time to open his account, but as soon as he adjusted himself to the pitch conditions, he started to take on the bowlers with confidence. He opened his account with a beautifully executed shot to find the fence for a four. He tried to find the boundary once again with another shot but the fielder denied him back-to-back boundaries. Rohit, on the other hand, looked confident with his shot selection and defensive approach for the majority of the third session. West Indies bowlers, however, struggled to find consistency in their line and length. This became evident after their review for an LBW appeal against Rohit Sharma was denied by the umpire. Both players will be keen to convert their ominous starts into big scores on Day 2. 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.

IND vs WI 1st Test: Ravichandran Ashwin joins ELITE club after dismissing Chanderpaul | Know More

England skipper Ben Stokes turned back the clock at the ongoing second Ashes Test at the Lord's against Australia as he reached his hundred with three back-to-back sixes off Cameron Green. Stokes turned on the heat in the game after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashes-2023-englands-jonny-bairstow-given-run-out-in-another-controversial-decision-in-lords-test-watch-611086">Jonny Bairstow's controversial run-out</a> on the final day and tore into the Australian attack.

Stokes was on 62 off 126 balls when Bairstow departed and began the onslaught one over later with three fours off Green's over with lunch looming on day 5. See the fours below:

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Have some of that!<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/SzoPMK6lEd">pic.twitter.com/SzoPMK6lEd</a>
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The England skipper again targeted Green in his next over as well and smoked him for first-ball four before hitting three consecutive sixes third ball onwards. Stokes took 22 off the over and reached his 100 as well, his 13th in the Tests. Stokes was on 108 off 147 balls at the lunch call on the final day. Have a look at the video here:

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You are something else, Stokesy 🙌💯 <a href="https://twitter.com/IGcom?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IGcom</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ashes?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ashes</a> <a href="https://t.co/JCwJUKYkGJ">pic.twitter.com/JCwJUKYkGJ</a>
— England Cricket (@englandcricket) <a href="https://twitter.com/englandcricket/status/1675477455329722369?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 2, 2023</a></blockquote>
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England then continued to play belligerently - often termed Bazball for them - as he added 100 runs for the seventh wicket with Stuart Broad. England were cruising along nicely at 298-6 in a chase of 371 by the time this report was written.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashes-2023-mcc-backs-up-dismissing-mitchell-starcs-catch-to-dismiss-ben-duckett-on-day-4-at-lords-611077">Ashes 2023: MCC backs up ruling Ben Duckett not out after Mitchell Starc's catch on day 4 at Lord's</a>

Earlier, England wicket-keeper Jonny Bairstow's wicket caused a lot of drama in the first session on the final day. This was the second controversial decision in the Test after the third umpire dismissed a catch by Mitchell Starc on Day 4 and declared England's Ben Duckett not out.

In Bairstow's case, on the last ball of the 52nd over of England's 2nd innings, Cameron Green bowled a bouncer to which the batsman ducked under and let it go to the wicketkeeper.

Aussie keeper Alex Carey, however, threw the ball at the stumps with an underarm throw. Bairstow, meanwhile, decided to leave the crease, presumably thinking that the play on that ball is over. The on-field umpire referred the decision upstairs and third umpire Marais Erasmus adjudged Bairstow out. The England batter walked back angrily with the crowd booing the visitors.

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England skipper Ben Stokes turned back the clock at the ongoing second Ashes Test at the Lord's against Australia as he reached his hundred with three back-to-back sixes off Cameron Green.

England skipper Ben Stokes turned back the clock at the ongoing second Ashes Test at the Lord's against Australia as he reached his hundred with three back-to-back sixes off Cameron Green. Stokes turned on the heat in the game after Jonny Bairstow's controversial run-out on the final day and tore into the Australian attack. Stokes was on 62 off 126 balls when Bairstow departed and began the onslaught one over later with three fours off Green's over with lunch looming on day 5. See the fours below: Have some of that!#EnglandCricket | #Ashes pic.twitter.com/SzoPMK6lEd — England Cricket (@englandcricket) July 2, 2023 × The England skipper again targeted Green in his next over as well and smoked him for first-ball four before hitting three consecutive sixes third ball onwards. Stokes took 22 off the over and reached his 100 as well, his 13th in the Tests. Stokes was on 108 off 147 balls at the lunch call on the final day. Have a look at the video here: You are something else, Stokesy 🙌💯 @IGcom | #Ashes pic.twitter.com/JCwJUKYkGJ — England Cricket (@englandcricket) July 2, 2023 × England then continued to play belligerently - often termed Bazball for them - as he added 100 runs for the seventh wicket with Stuart Broad. England were cruising along nicely at 298-6 in a chase of 371 by the time this report was written. Also Read: Ashes 2023: MCC backs up ruling Ben Duckett not out after Mitchell Starc's catch on day 4 at Lord's Earlier, England wicket-keeper Jonny Bairstow's wicket caused a lot of drama in the first session on the final day. This was the second controversial decision in the Test after the third umpire dismissed a catch by Mitchell Starc on Day 4 and declared England's Ben Duckett not out. In Bairstow's case, on the last ball of the 52nd over of England's 2nd innings, Cameron Green bowled a bouncer to which the batsman ducked under and let it go to the wicketkeeper. Aussie keeper Alex Carey, however, threw the ball at the stumps with an underarm throw. Bairstow, meanwhile, decided to leave the crease, presumably thinking that the play on that ball is over. The on-field umpire referred the decision upstairs and third umpire Marais Erasmus adjudged Bairstow out. The England batter walked back angrily with the crowd booing the visitors. 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 skipper Ben Stokes reaches 100 with three consecutive sixes at Lord's - WATCH

Ashes History: The Ashes is a Test match series played between England and Australia, the oldest rivals in cricket. They play for a small urn which stayed at the Marylebone Cricket Club at the Lord's Cricket Ground and then shifted to the museum.

Ashes History: The Ashes is a Test match series played between England and Australia, the oldest rivals in cricket. They play for a small urn which stayed at the Marylebone Cricket Club at the Lord's Cricket Ground and then shifted to the museum. Why is England vs Australia Test Series called The Ashes? The term 'Ashes' was born in 1882, when Australia defeated England's cricket team for the first time on their home soil. After England's defeat, the Sporting Times declared the death of English Cricket in a mock obituary. It read, "In Affectionate Remembrance of English cricket, which died at The Oval on 29 August 1882. Deeply lamented by a large circle of sorrowing friends and acquaintances, RIP. NB – the body will be cremated, and the ashes taken to Australia." Later, the English media called England's next tour to Australia the quest to regain the ashes. During the 1882-23 tour, a group of Melbourne women presented a tiny terracotta urn to the English Captain Ivo Bligh, which allegedly contained the ashes of some cricket item. After Bligh's death, his wife presented the urn to the MCC. Before it was moved to the museum in 1953, the small urn resided in the Long Room. In 1998, the MCC commissioned a trophy that has been played for in the series between Australia and England. The trophy is a larger replica of the urn. In 1903, Pelham Warner, former captain of the England cricket team, wrote a book named How We Recovered The Ashes. ALSO READ | ENG vs AUS Ashes 2023: How & where to watch LIVE streaming in India, Australia & England ALSO READ | Ashes 2023: Check full squads, schedule, venue & all you need to know for England vs Australia The Ashes winners over the years Here are the results of The Ashes between Australia and England since 1882. Series/Tournament Season Winner Margin The Ashes (England in Australia) 1882/83 England 2-1 (3) The Ashes (Australia in England) 1884 England 1-0 (3) The Ashes (England in Australia) 1884/85 England 3-2 (5) The Ashes (Australia in England) 1886 England 3-0 (3) The Ashes (England in Australia) 1886/87 England 2-0 (2) The Ashes (England in Australia) 1887/88 England 1-0 (1) The Ashes (Australia in England) 1888 England 2-1 (3) The Ashes (Australia in England) 1890 England 2-0 (2) The Ashes (England in Australia) 1891/92 Australia 2-1 (3) The Ashes (Australia in England) 1893 England 1-0 (3) The Ashes (England in Australia) 1894/95 England 3-2 (5) The Ashes (Australia in England) 1896 England 2-1 (3) The Ashes (England in Australia) 1897/98 Australia 4-1 (5) The Ashes (Australia in England) 1899 Australia 1-0 (5) The Ashes (England in Australia) 398 Australia 4-1 (5) The Ashes (Australia in England) 1902 Australia 2-1 (5) The Ashes (England in Australia) 1187 England 3-2 (5) The Ashes (Australia in England) 1905 England 2-0 (5) The Ashes (England in Australia) 2770 Australia 4-1 (5) The Ashes (Australia in England) 1909 Australia 2-1 (5) The Ashes (England in Australia) 4353 England 4-1 (5) The Ashes (Australia in England) 1912 England 1-0 (3) The Ashes (England in Australia) 1920/21 Australia 5-0 (5) The Ashes (Australia in England) 1921 Australia 3-0 (5) The Ashes (England in Australia) 1924/25 Australia 4-1 (5) The Ashes (Australia in England) 1926 England 1-0 (5) The Ashes (England in Australia) 1928/29 England 4-1 (5) The Ashes (Australia in England) 1930 Australia 2-1 (5) The Ashes (England in Australia) 1932/33 England 4-1 (5) The Ashes (Australia in England) 1934 Australia 2-1 (5) The Ashes (England in Australia) 1936/37 Australia 3-2 (5) The Ashes (Australia in England) 1938 drawn 1-1 (4) The Ashes (England in Australia) 1946/47 Australia 3-0 (5) The Ashes (Australia in England) 1948 Australia 4-0 (5) The Ashes (England in Australia) 1950/51 Australia 4-1 (5) The Ashes (Australia in England) 1953 England 1-0 (5) The Ashes (England in Australia) 1954/55 England 3-1 (5) The Ashes (Australia in England) 1956 England 2-1 (5) The Ashes (England in Australia) 1958/59 Australia 4-0 (5) The Ashes (Australia in England) 1961 Australia 2-1 (5) The Ashes (England in Australia) 1962/63 drawn 1-1 (5) The Ashes (Australia in England) 1964 Australia 1-0 (5) The Ashes (England in Australia) 1965/66 drawn 1-1 (5) The Ashes (Australia in England) 1968 drawn 1-1 (5) The Ashes (England in Australia) 1970/71 England 2-0 (7) The Ashes (Australia in England) 1972 drawn 2-2 (5) The Ashes (England in Australia) 1974/75 Australia 4-1 (6) The Ashes (Australia in England) 1975 Australia 1-0 (4) The Ashes (Australia in England) 1977 England 3-0 (5) The Ashes (England in Australia) 1978/79 England 5-1 (6) The Ashes (Australia in England) 1981 England 3-1 (6) The Ashes (England in Australia) 1982/83 Australia 2-1 (5) The Ashes (Australia in England) 1985 England 3-1 (6) The Ashes (England in Australia) 1986/87 England 2-1 (5) The Ashes (Australia in England) 1989 Australia 4-0 (6) The Ashes (England in Australia) 1990/91 Australia 3-0 (5) The Ashes (Australia in England) 1993 Australia 4-1 (6) The Ashes (England in Australia) 1994/95 Australia 3-1 (5) The Ashes (Australia in England) 1997 Australia 3-2 (6) The Ashes (England in Australia) 1998/99 Australia 3-1 (5) The Ashes (Australia in England) 2001 Australia 4-1 (5) The Ashes (England in Australia) 37316 Australia 4-1 (5) The Ashes (Australia in England) 2005 England 2-1 (5) The Ashes (England in Australia) 38899 Australia 5-0 (5) The Ashes (Australia in England) 2009 England 2-1 (5) The Ashes (England in Australia) 40483 England 3-1 (5) The Ashes (Australia in England) 2013 England 3-0 (5) The Ashes (England in Australia) 2013/14 Australia 5-0 (5) The Ashes (Australia in England) 2015 England 3-2 (5) The Ashes (England in Australia) 2017/18 Australia 4-0 (5) The Ashes (Australia in England) 2019 drawn 2-2 (5) The Ashes (England in Australia) 2021/22 Australia 4-0 (5) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

History of The Ashes: Here’s all you need to know about Test cricket’s oldest rivalry ahead of Ashes 2023

Indian batsman Shubman Gill was out to a controversial decision by TV umpire on day 4 of the World Test Championship (WTC) Final. India were cruising along nicely in pursuit of 444-run target with 41 runs on the board in just seven overs when he edged a ball by Scott Boland to slips where Cameron Green caught it.

The decision was referred to the TV umpire who gave it out but, it seemed that Green had grassed the ball before scooping it. The batsman&nbsp;and&nbsp;skipper Rohit Sharma&nbsp;were not pleased at all with the decision but Gill had to depart. The youngster, however, didn't hold back and tweeted a photo of Green where the ball could be&nbsp;seen touching the ground. Have a look at the tweet here:

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🔎🔎🤦🏻‍♂️ <a href="https://t.co/pOnHYfgb6L">pic.twitter.com/pOnHYfgb6L</a>
— Shubman Gill (@ShubmanGill) <a href="https://twitter.com/ShubmanGill/status/1667581278365929472?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 10, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2>No soft signal given</h2>

The controversial decision also didn't include a soft signal by on-field umpires with the International Cricket Council's (ICC) updating playing conditions in May. As per the changes, the on-field umpires would now have to consult the TV umpire while taking a decision.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wtc-final-ravindra-jadeja-bowls-cameron-green-after-outfoxing-him-to-leave-ball-watch-602969">Ravindra Jadeja bowls Cameron Green after outfoxing him to leave ball - WATCH</a>

"The on-field umpires will consult with the TV umpire before any decisions are taken," the ICC had confirmed while announcing the change in May.

The ongoing WTC Final is the second Test without soft signal with the one off England vs Ireland Test being the first one.

<h2>India cruise along to set up thrilling final day</h2>

Despite Gill's wicket, India didn't take foot off the pedal and kept scoring at brisk pace. In the process, Rohit Sharma (43) and Cheteshwar Pujara (27) lost their wickets but India managed to put 164 runs on the board. Virat Kohli and Ajinkya Rahane added unbeaten 71 runs for the fourth wicket and finished on 44 not out &amp; 20 not out, respectively.

Australia need seven more wickets in maximum 90 overs on day 5 while India need to score 280 runs as they aim to chase down the highest successful fourth-innings total in a Test match.

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Indian batsman Shubman Gill was out to a controversial decision by TV umpire on day 4 of the World Test Championship (WTC) Final. India were cruising along nicely in pursuit of 444-run target with 41 runs on the board in just seven overs when he edged a ball by Scott Boland to slips where Cameron Green caught it.

Indian batsman Shubman Gill was out to a controversial decision by TV umpire on day 4 of the World Test Championship (WTC) Final. India were cruising along nicely in pursuit of 444-run target with 41 runs on the board in just seven overs when he edged a ball by Scott Boland to slips where Cameron Green caught it. The decision was referred to the TV umpire who gave it out but, it seemed that Green had grassed the ball before scooping it. The batsman and skipper Rohit Sharma were not pleased at all with the decision but Gill had to depart. The youngster, however, didn't hold back and tweeted a photo of Green where the ball could be seen touching the ground. Have a look at the tweet here: 🔎🔎🤦🏻‍♂️ pic.twitter.com/pOnHYfgb6L — Shubman Gill (@ShubmanGill) June 10, 2023 × No soft signal given The controversial decision also didn't include a soft signal by on-field umpires with the International Cricket Council's (ICC) updating playing conditions in May. As per the changes, the on-field umpires would now have to consult the TV umpire while taking a decision. Also Read: Ravindra Jadeja bowls Cameron Green after outfoxing him to leave ball - WATCH "The on-field umpires will consult with the TV umpire before any decisions are taken," the ICC had confirmed while announcing the change in May. The ongoing WTC Final is the second Test without soft signal with the one off England vs Ireland Test being the first one. India cruise along to set up thrilling final day Despite Gill's wicket, India didn't take foot off the pedal and kept scoring at brisk pace. In the process, Rohit Sharma (43) and Cheteshwar Pujara (27) lost their wickets but India managed to put 164 runs on the board. Virat Kohli and Ajinkya Rahane added unbeaten 71 runs for the fourth wicket and finished on 44 not out & 20 not out, respectively. Australia need seven more wickets in maximum 90 overs on day 5 while India need to score 280 runs as they aim to chase down the highest successful fourth-innings total in a Test match. 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: Shubman Gill tweets to show disappointment after being given out on day 4

India batter Ajinkya Rahane on Thursday smashed a ton in the ongoing match between Mumbai and Saurashtra in the Ranji Trophy 2022.

Rahane, playing for Mumbai, hit 100 in 212 balls to help his side recover from a precarious position. Mumbai were 22/2 when Rahane (100), who was going through a lean patch came into bat.

He lost his partner Sachin Yadav in the 12th over but Sarfaraz Khan (85) stitched an important stand with Rahane to revive Mumbai innings (219/3).

Earlier in the day, Delhi batter Yash Dhull on registered a century on his first-class debut in the ongoing Ranji Trophy Elite Group H contest.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ranji-trophy-u19-wc-winning-captain-yash-dhull-stars-on-first-class-debut-smashes-century-against-tamil-nadu-453989">Ranji Trophy: U19 WC-winning captain Yash Dhull stars on first-class debut, smashes century against Tamil Nadu</a>

Dhull scored a ton against Tamil Nadu in the ongoing Elite Group H contest here at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium, Guwahati.

Sent out to open, Dhull brought up his century off just 133 balls with the help of 16 boundaries.

In the ongoing match, Tamil Nadu won the toss and opted to bowl first. When on 97, Dhull was dismissed by M Mohammed but the ball turned out to be a no-ball, and the young Delhi batter got a reprieve.

Dhull had led India to a record fifth U19 World Cup triumph after the boys in blue defeated England in the summit clash.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-look-to-seal-series-against-west-indies-in-2nd-t20i-amid-talks-on-virat-kohlis-dip-in-form-453998">India look to seal series against West Indies in 2nd T20I amid talks on Virat Kohli's dip in form</a>

The Ranji Trophy would be held in two phases and now it has been confirmed that the pre-Indian Premier League (IPL) phase would run from February 10 to March 15. The post-IPL-phase would run from May 30 to June 26.

The Ranji Trophy this season would see 64 matches being played across 62 days.

India batter Ajinkya Rahane on Thursday smashed a ton in the ongoing match between Mumbai and Saurashtra in the Ranji Trophy 2022. Rahane, playing for Mumbai, hit 100 in 212 balls to help his side recover from a precarious position.

India batter Ajinkya Rahane on Thursday smashed a ton in the ongoing match between Mumbai and Saurashtra in the Ranji Trophy 2022. Rahane, playing for Mumbai, hit 100 in 212 balls to help his side recover from a precarious position. Mumbai were 22/2 when Rahane (100), who was going through a lean patch came into bat. He lost his partner Sachin Yadav in the 12th over but Sarfaraz Khan (85) stitched an important stand with Rahane to revive Mumbai innings (219/3). Earlier in the day, Delhi batter Yash Dhull on registered a century on his first-class debut in the ongoing Ranji Trophy Elite Group H contest. ALSO READ: Ranji Trophy: U19 WC-winning captain Yash Dhull stars on first-class debut, smashes century against Tamil Nadu Dhull scored a ton against Tamil Nadu in the ongoing Elite Group H contest here at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium, Guwahati. Sent out to open, Dhull brought up his century off just 133 balls with the help of 16 boundaries. In the ongoing match, Tamil Nadu won the toss and opted to bowl first. When on 97, Dhull was dismissed by M Mohammed but the ball turned out to be a no-ball, and the young Delhi batter got a reprieve. Dhull had led India to a record fifth U19 World Cup triumph after the boys in blue defeated England in the summit clash. ALSO READ: India look to seal series against West Indies in 2nd T20I amid talks on Virat Kohli's dip in form The Ranji Trophy would be held in two phases and now it has been confirmed that the pre-Indian Premier League (IPL) phase would run from February 10 to March 15. The post-IPL-phase would run from May 30 to June 26. The Ranji Trophy this season would see 64 matches being played across 62 days.

Ranji Trophy: Ajinkya Rahane regains lost form, smashes century against Saurashtra

The year 2021 was filled with plenty of cricketing action. The calendar year saw the inaugural ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final being held, where Kane Williamson-led New Zealand won the title. Apart from that, there were plenty of action and drama which came from the purest format, in the form of India-England Tests (both men's and women's), India vs Australia Tests (both in men's and women's), Pakistan-Bangladesh series, Sri Lanka-West Indies series, etc.

With the year coming to an end, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra&nbsp;picked his Test team of 2021. Chopra's team included some star-studded names and comprises four Indians. However, Captain Virat Kohli found no mention in his line-up.

For the unversed, Kohli didn't have a great year with the bat. While he led India with aplomb in the England series (both home and away) and a series win over New Zealand at home, he failed to cross the triple-figure mark and amassed only 483 runs, with four fifties, at 28.41. Hence, Chopra's list included Rohit Sharma (India's highest run-getter in 2021), Rishabh Pant, R Ashwin and Axar Patel.

Rohit compiled 906 runs, at 47.68, and&nbsp;is the second-highest run-getter overall. Ashwin leads the list of most wickets in Tests in the calendar year (52 scalps) whereas Axar accounted for 36 wickets (fourth overall). Pant, on the other hand, scored 706 runs with five fifties and one hundred (second-most by an Indian) and also showed vast improvement a a keeper. Both Pant and Ashwin have a chance to better their numbers in India's only Test remaining in 2021; i.e. the South Africa Test series opener in Centurion on December 26. Meanwhile, Rohit and Axar have been ruled out of action due to injury concerns.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohlis-post-for-ms-dhoni-during-ipl-14-adjudged-most-liked-and-retweeted-tweet-for-sports-in-2021-436631">Virat Kohli's post for MS Dhoni during IPL 14 adjudged most liked and retweeted tweet for sports in 2021</a>

Speaking about the top-order, Chopra's XI comprised Rohit, Sri Lanka captain Dimuth Karunaratne, Joe Root and NZ's skipper Williamson.

He said in a video on his YouTube channel, "The first name coming to my mind is Rohit Sharma. It was a huge year for him, it was the year in which he fell in love with the longest format. He played amazing knocks, whether it was the century in Chennai and the consistent performances in England.&nbsp; My second opener is Sri Lanka's Dimuth Karunaratne. He has also made runs which also includes a double century. He was playing well against West Indies also. He might not be too pleasing on the eye but scores runs.".

"There was no contest at No.3. Joe Root is part of this team. He is the best Test batter of 2021, miles above the rest. He is just in a different league altogether. He gave amazing performances, whether it was the double century in India or Sri Lanka. At No.4, I have got Williamson. He scored a double century against Pakistan and he won his team the final. He played a very important knock in the final as well. Kane Williamson is also the captain of this team," Chopra further asserted.

For the middle-order, Chopra named Fawad Alam, Pant, Ashwin and Axar. "My team has Fawad Alam. It is a story of persistence, that he will keep on playing whether you select him or not. He has made runs, the noticeable performances being 109 against South Africa, 140 against Zimbabwe and 124 against West Indies. The keeper is Rishabh Pant. I was thinking about Jos Buttler as well but no one was close to him. The sort of performances Rishabh Pant has given - 101 against England, 89 at Gabba and a ninety in Sydney as well. He has been very very good."

"After that, I am picking two Indians (including Axar). Ravichandran Ashwin - he has taken a lot of wickets. He was brilliant in India against England. He made a century against England as well. He is the no.1 spinner in Test cricket, there is no doubt about it."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-sharma-ruled-out-of-upcoming-test-series-against-south-africa-priyank-panchal-named-replacement-436590">Rohit Sharma ruled out of upcoming Test series against South Africa, Priyank Panchal named replacement</a>

For the rest of the line-up, Chopra shared his picks and said, "I have picked two fast bowlers apart from Jamieson. Jimmy Anderson - he took 32 wickets this year. He did well in India, took a five-wicket haul in Sri Lanka and did well against India again at home. Last but not the least, I have got Shaheen Afridi. His performances this year have been very good. He was also taking five-wicket hauls like Axar. It will also give a left-armer, he is tall, pitches the ball up and makes it swing," he concluded.

Aakash Chopra's Test XI of the year: Rohit Sharma, Dimuth Karunaratne, Joe Root, Kane Williamson (c), Fawad Alam, Rishabh Pant, Kyle Jamieson, Ravichandran Ashwin, Axar Patel, James Anderson, Shaheen Afridi

The year 2021 was filled with plenty of cricketing action. The calendar year saw the inaugural ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final being held, where Kane Williamson-led New Zealand won the title.

The year 2021 was filled with plenty of cricketing action. The calendar year saw the inaugural ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final being held, where Kane Williamson-led New Zealand won the title. Apart from that, there were plenty of action and drama which came from the purest format, in the form of India-England Tests (both men's and women's), India vs Australia Tests (both in men's and women's), Pakistan-Bangladesh series, Sri Lanka-West Indies series, etc. With the year coming to an end, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra picked his Test team of 2021. Chopra's team included some star-studded names and comprises four Indians. However, Captain Virat Kohli found no mention in his line-up. For the unversed, Kohli didn't have a great year with the bat. While he led India with aplomb in the England series (both home and away) and a series win over New Zealand at home, he failed to cross the triple-figure mark and amassed only 483 runs, with four fifties, at 28.41. Hence, Chopra's list included Rohit Sharma (India's highest run-getter in 2021), Rishabh Pant, R Ashwin and Axar Patel. Rohit compiled 906 runs, at 47.68, and is the second-highest run-getter overall. Ashwin leads the list of most wickets in Tests in the calendar year (52 scalps) whereas Axar accounted for 36 wickets (fourth overall). Pant, on the other hand, scored 706 runs with five fifties and one hundred (second-most by an Indian) and also showed vast improvement a a keeper. Both Pant and Ashwin have a chance to better their numbers in India's only Test remaining in 2021; i.e. the South Africa Test series opener in Centurion on December 26. Meanwhile, Rohit and Axar have been ruled out of action due to injury concerns. ALSO READ | Virat Kohli's post for MS Dhoni during IPL 14 adjudged most liked and retweeted tweet for sports in 2021 Speaking about the top-order, Chopra's XI comprised Rohit, Sri Lanka captain Dimuth Karunaratne, Joe Root and NZ's skipper Williamson. He said in a video on his YouTube channel, "The first name coming to my mind is Rohit Sharma. It was a huge year for him, it was the year in which he fell in love with the longest format. He played amazing knocks, whether it was the century in Chennai and the consistent performances in England. My second opener is Sri Lanka's Dimuth Karunaratne. He has also made runs which also includes a double century. He was playing well against West Indies also. He might not be too pleasing on the eye but scores runs.". "There was no contest at No.3. Joe Root is part of this team. He is the best Test batter of 2021, miles above the rest. He is just in a different league altogether. He gave amazing performances, whether it was the double century in India or Sri Lanka. At No.4, I have got Williamson. He scored a double century against Pakistan and he won his team the final. He played a very important knock in the final as well. Kane Williamson is also the captain of this team," Chopra further asserted. For the middle-order, Chopra named Fawad Alam, Pant, Ashwin and Axar. "My team has Fawad Alam. It is a story of persistence, that he will keep on playing whether you select him or not. He has made runs, the noticeable performances being 109 against South Africa, 140 against Zimbabwe and 124 against West Indies. The keeper is Rishabh Pant. I was thinking about Jos Buttler as well but no one was close to him. The sort of performances Rishabh Pant has given - 101 against England, 89 at Gabba and a ninety in Sydney as well. He has been very very good." "After that, I am picking two Indians (including Axar). Ravichandran Ashwin - he has taken a lot of wickets. He was brilliant in India against England. He made a century against England as well. He is the no.1 spinner in Test cricket, there is no doubt about it." ALSO READ | Rohit Sharma ruled out of upcoming Test series against South Africa, Priyank Panchal named replacement For the rest of the line-up, Chopra shared his picks and said, "I have picked two fast bowlers apart from Jamieson. Jimmy Anderson - he took 32 wickets this year. He did well in India, took a five-wicket haul in Sri Lanka and did well against India again at home. Last but not the least, I have got Shaheen Afridi. His performances this year have been very good. He was also taking five-wicket hauls like Axar. It will also give a left-armer, he is tall, pitches the ball up and makes it swing," he concluded. Aakash Chopra's Test XI of the year: Rohit Sharma, Dimuth Karunaratne, Joe Root, Kane Williamson (c), Fawad Alam, Rishabh Pant, Kyle Jamieson, Ravichandran Ashwin, Axar Patel, James Anderson, Shaheen Afridi

Former Indian opener names Rohit Sharma-starrer Test XI of 2021, no room for Virat Kohli

The initial test in Nottingham was consummately poised as India required 157 runs while England required nine wickets with cloudy skies liable to support their speed attack yet the downpour had different plans.&nbsp;

After an impasse in Nottingham, India and England will play the second Test of the five-match series at Lord's in London, beginning on Thursday.&nbsp;

Throughout the long term, India and England have played some important matches at Lord's. In 2014, a phenomenal exertion from Ishant Sharma (7/74) helped the Indian group record a renowned success at the iconic arena. However, after four years in 2018, England retaliated for the loss by squashing India by an innings and 159 runs.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-it-will-be-great-to-see-cricket-as-an-olympic-sport-says-joe-root-404574" hreflang="en">Cricket: It will be great to see cricket as an Olympic sport, says Joe Root</a>

<h2>Pitch Conditions&nbsp;</h2>

The wicket at Lord's ought to be a pretty adjusted one, however, it's the least demanding for the hitters in the first innings. Seam bowlers will get a lot of help from the wicket, with great bounce. The spinners should become an integral factor on Days 4 and 5 once the pitch begins to get old. The fast bowlers could likewise benefit from the slant at Lord's.&nbsp;

<h2>England</h2>

Haseeb Hameed and Moeen Ali could advance once again into the England side. The form of England's top-order hasn't been good this year in spite of some encouraging individual exhibitions.&nbsp;

With Lord's probably going to offer better help to spinners, Moeen Ali could be incorporated in place of Daniel Lawrence.&nbsp;

Stuart Broad will undergo scans today he tweaked his right lower leg during the net session. Mark Wood is probably going to fit in Stuart Broad's spot if he fails to be match fit.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-jasprit-bumrah-has-got-amazing-skills-a-world-class-bowler-says-jonny-bairstow-404573" hreflang="en">Cricket: 'Jasprit Bumrah has got amazing skills, a world-class bowler,' says Jonny Bairstow</a>

<h2>India&nbsp;</h2>

Captain Virat Kohli affirmed four-seamers and one spinner will be the layout in the series after the end of the first test.

Shardul Thakur is doubtful for&nbsp;the second Test match as he experienced a hamstring injury during the training session. Ishant Sharma can come in if Shardul Thakur fails to be match fit.&nbsp;

KL Rahul ought to hold his spot in the side. The remainder of India's enduring an onslaught top-order will likewise get another game to make up for themselves.

The pleasing weather conditions for the second Test at Lord's should guarantee a result this time.&nbsp;

The initial test in Nottingham was consummately poised as India required 157 runs while England required nine wickets with cloudy skies liable to support their speed attack yet the downpour had different plans.

The initial test in Nottingham was consummately poised as India required 157 runs while England required nine wickets with cloudy skies liable to support their speed attack yet the downpour had different plans. After an impasse in Nottingham, India and England will play the second Test of the five-match series at Lord's in London, beginning on Thursday. Throughout the long term, India and England have played some important matches at Lord's. In 2014, a phenomenal exertion from Ishant Sharma (7/74) helped the Indian group record a renowned success at the iconic arena. However, after four years in 2018, England retaliated for the loss by squashing India by an innings and 159 runs. ALSO READ: Cricket: It will be great to see cricket as an Olympic sport, says Joe Root Pitch Conditions The wicket at Lord's ought to be a pretty adjusted one, however, it's the least demanding for the hitters in the first innings. Seam bowlers will get a lot of help from the wicket, with great bounce. The spinners should become an integral factor on Days 4 and 5 once the pitch begins to get old. The fast bowlers could likewise benefit from the slant at Lord's. England Haseeb Hameed and Moeen Ali could advance once again into the England side. The form of England's top-order hasn't been good this year in spite of some encouraging individual exhibitions. With Lord's probably going to offer better help to spinners, Moeen Ali could be incorporated in place of Daniel Lawrence. Stuart Broad will undergo scans today he tweaked his right lower leg during the net session. Mark Wood is probably going to fit in Stuart Broad's spot if he fails to be match fit. ALSO READ: Cricket: 'Jasprit Bumrah has got amazing skills, a world-class bowler,' says Jonny Bairstow India Captain Virat Kohli affirmed four-seamers and one spinner will be the layout in the series after the end of the first test. Shardul Thakur is doubtful for the second Test match as he experienced a hamstring injury during the training session. Ishant Sharma can come in if Shardul Thakur fails to be match fit. KL Rahul ought to hold his spot in the side. The remainder of India's enduring an onslaught top-order will likewise get another game to make up for themselves. The pleasing weather conditions for the second Test at Lord's should guarantee a result this time.

Cricket: Team India eyes redemption as they face England at the iconic Lord's stadium

India Women did not play a Test match for seven years. Little marvel then that this was Shafali Verma's debut Test match, despite the fact that she has effectively played 22 WT20Is. Her 148 or more strike rate in the longest format said a lot for her hitting ability. In any case, Test cricket was an alternate ball game, a trial of her procedure and demeanor in English conditions. Shafali passed decisively.

Shafali Verma is a name that would perk up the essence of most Indian fans nowadays.&nbsp;

What stands apart about her game is her courageous strokeplay and her see-ball hit ball approach that has impelled her to play her debut Test match in a twinkling period of time.

At the point when most cricket amateurs her age were all the while attempting to get hold of various formats of the game and as yet attempting to comprehend the guidelines, Shafali Verma was tonking one of the best bowling units, in their own backyard. On her Test debut, Shafali Verma illuminated Bristol. A 152-ball 96, with 13 fours and two sixes, upgraded her standing as a batting corsair after England Women declared their first innings on 396/9.&nbsp;

Regardless of being a rookie at this level, Shafali Verma's stroke-play had been generally discussed, coming into this game. Through dauntless cricket, the 17-year-old satisfied her reputation.

While there were qualms about her strategy paving the way to the one-off Test, the youth subdued every such thought. She was in control during her 152-ball 96.&nbsp;

Shafali Verma attempted to finish her century with a boundary however sadly was out caught. She skied one from Kate Cross to hand a simple catch to Anya Shrubsole.

Yet, Shafali Verma, similar to her batting, endured it and vowed to make it up in the coming days. She composed on Twitter:&nbsp;

“I would like to thank each and every one of you for your kind words of support and for your wishes. It would not be possible to respond to each message individually. I am proud to be a part of this team and such wonderfully supportive teammates and support staff. I know my father, my family, my Association, my team and the academy will miss those 4+ runs more than me but I will make it up to them on other occasions. They have all been a huge support!"

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I know my father, my family, my Association, my team and academy will miss those 4+ runs more than me but I will make it up to them on other occasions 😁. They have all been a huge support!
— Shafali Verma (@TheShafaliVerma) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheShafaliVerma/status/1405599144748613634?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 17, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Shafali Verma was astute past her years. She was prudent, to begin with, regarding the format and England Women's bowling. Solely after the tea break, she began&nbsp;playing some excessive shots. Smriti Mandhana's poise at the opposite end made a difference. Together the two openers put on 167 runs before Shahafi Verma was dismissed.

With the world at her feet at a particularly young age, Anything is possible for this intelligently skilled teen. In the event that her beginning in global cricket is anything to pass by Shafali Verma will be the standard-bearer of Indian women's cricket for quite a long time to come.

India Women did not play a Test match for seven years. Little marvel then that this was Shafali Verma's debut Test match, despite the fact that she has effectively played 22 WT20Is.

India Women did not play a Test match for seven years. Little marvel then that this was Shafali Verma's debut Test match, despite the fact that she has effectively played 22 WT20Is. Her 148 or more strike rate in the longest format said a lot for her hitting ability. In any case, Test cricket was an alternate ball game, a trial of her procedure and demeanor in English conditions. Shafali passed decisively. Shafali Verma is a name that would perk up the essence of most Indian fans nowadays. What stands apart about her game is her courageous strokeplay and her see-ball hit ball approach that has impelled her to play her debut Test match in a twinkling period of time. At the point when most cricket amateurs her age were all the while attempting to get hold of various formats of the game and as yet attempting to comprehend the guidelines, Shafali Verma was tonking one of the best bowling units, in their own backyard. On her Test debut, Shafali Verma illuminated Bristol. A 152-ball 96, with 13 fours and two sixes, upgraded her standing as a batting corsair after England Women declared their first innings on 396/9. Regardless of being a rookie at this level, Shafali Verma's stroke-play had been generally discussed, coming into this game. Through dauntless cricket, the 17-year-old satisfied her reputation. While there were qualms about her strategy paving the way to the one-off Test, the youth subdued every such thought. She was in control during her 152-ball 96. Shafali Verma attempted to finish her century with a boundary however sadly was out caught. She skied one from Kate Cross to hand a simple catch to Anya Shrubsole. Yet, Shafali Verma, similar to her batting, endured it and vowed to make it up in the coming days. She composed on Twitter: “I would like to thank each and every one of you for your kind words of support and for your wishes. It would not be possible to respond to each message individually. I am proud to be a part of this team and such wonderfully supportive teammates and support staff. I know my father, my family, my Association, my team and the academy will miss those 4+ runs more than me but I will make it up to them on other occasions. They have all been a huge support!" I know my father, my family, my Association, my team and academy will miss those 4+ runs more than me but I will make it up to them on other occasions 😁. They have all been a huge support! — Shafali Verma (@TheShafaliVerma) June 17, 2021 × Shafali Verma was astute past her years. She was prudent, to begin with, regarding the format and England Women's bowling. Solely after the tea break, she began playing some excessive shots. Smriti Mandhana's poise at the opposite end made a difference. Together the two openers put on 167 runs before Shahafi Verma was dismissed. With the world at her feet at a particularly young age, Anything is possible for this intelligently skilled teen. In the event that her beginning in global cricket is anything to pass by Shafali Verma will be the standard-bearer of Indian women's cricket for quite a long time to come.

Cricket: Shafali Verma makes her debut in the Test format with flying colors

Australian batsman Steve Smith on Thursday shared a heartfelt message after being named the ICC's Test player of the decade earlier this week. He told his fans that he was "humbled" after winning the award.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-rankings-kane-williamson-overtakes-smith-kohli-as-top-test-batsman-ajinkya-rahane-enters-top-10-353560" hreflang="en">ICC Rankings: Kane Williamson overtakes Smith, Kohli as top Test batsman; Ajinkya Rahane enters Top 10</a>

Steve Smith has some staggering records to prove why he deserved this award. The Aussie scored 7040 runs from 69 Tests at an average of 65.79 which included 26 hundreds, 28 fifties and 3 Ashes double centuries. Often considered as one of the best batsmen for Australia in the modern era, he was banned from international cricket for a year in 2018.

"Humbled to be named Test player of the decade. I would like to thank everyone who has supported me throughout my career so far.

"I’ve had a lot of fun, faced many challenges, learnt so much and now I can’t wait to see what the next decade has in store for me," Smith tweeted.

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Humbled to be named Test player of the decade. I would like to thank everyone who has supported me throughout my career so far. I’ve had a lot of fun, faced many challenges, learnt so much and now I can’t wait to see what the next decade has in store for me 🏏 🙏 <a href="https://t.co/wdWWNynnce">pic.twitter.com/wdWWNynnce</a>
— Steve Smith (@stevesmith49) <a href="https://twitter.com/stevesmith49/status/1344578090966671362?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 31, 2020</a></blockquote>
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However, Smith is struggling in the on-going series against India as he has managed just 10 runs - 1, 1*, 0, 8 - in two Tests so far.

Australian batsman Steve Smith on Thursday shared a heartfelt message after being named the ICC's Test player of the decade earlier this week. He told his fans that he was "humbled" after winning the award.

Australian batsman Steve Smith on Thursday shared a heartfelt message after being named the ICC's Test player of the decade earlier this week. He told his fans that he was "humbled" after winning the award. ALSO READ: ICC Rankings: Kane Williamson overtakes Smith, Kohli as top Test batsman; Ajinkya Rahane enters Top 10 Steve Smith has some staggering records to prove why he deserved this award. The Aussie scored 7040 runs from 69 Tests at an average of 65.79 which included 26 hundreds, 28 fifties and 3 Ashes double centuries. Often considered as one of the best batsmen for Australia in the modern era, he was banned from international cricket for a year in 2018. "Humbled to be named Test player of the decade. I would like to thank everyone who has supported me throughout my career so far. "I’ve had a lot of fun, faced many challenges, learnt so much and now I can’t wait to see what the next decade has in store for me," Smith tweeted. Humbled to be named Test player of the decade. I would like to thank everyone who has supported me throughout my career so far. I’ve had a lot of fun, faced many challenges, learnt so much and now I can’t wait to see what the next decade has in store for me 🏏 🙏 pic.twitter.com/wdWWNynnce — Steve Smith (@stevesmith49) December 31, 2020 × However, Smith is struggling in the on-going series against India as he has managed just 10 runs - 1, 1*, 0, 8 - in two Tests so far.

'Humbled': Steve Smith shares a message after winning ICC Test player of the Decade

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