<p>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.</p><p><strong>List of batters to score a fourth innings Test hundred against India in England:</strong></p><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><p><strong>Also Read</strong> - <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></p><p>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.</p><p><strong>England in command of chase at Headingley</strong></p><p>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.</p><p>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.</p><p>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.</p>

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.

<p>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.</p>

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

<p>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.</p><p><strong>Also Read -</strong> <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></p><p>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.</p><p>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.</p><p>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.</p><p>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).</p><p>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.</p>

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.

<p>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.</p>

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

Wicketkeeper-batters with Most Runs in One Test

341 runs against SA in 2001
1st Innings: 142
2nd Innings: 199 not out

287 runs against India in 2000
1st Innings: 55
2nd Innings: 232 not out

253 runs against India in 2000
1st Innings: 183 not out
2nd Innings: 70

252 runs vs England in 2025
1st Innings: 134
2nd Innings: 118

251 runs vs Australia in 1966
1st Innings: 69
2nd Innings: 182

244 runs vs Pakistan in 2002
1st Innings: 230
2nd Innings: 14 not out

238 runs vs Bangladesh in 2005
1st Innings: 85 not out
2nd Innings: 153

India's Rishabh Pant scored 252 runs (134 and 118) in first Test against England in Headingley - fourth highest by a wicketkeeper-batter in a Test. RCB's IPL winning coach Andy Flower tops the list.

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

<p>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.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><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"><strong>IND vs ENG: Placing Anderson’s name ahead of Tendulkar in Trophy renaming saga irks Gavaskar</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>So, what makes him better than others? Are there factors that aid this statement, and if yes, then what are they?</p><h2>Does good fielding help?<br>&nbsp;</h2><p>Of course, it does, and it does big time.&nbsp;<br>&nbsp;</p><p>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.<br>&nbsp;</p><p>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;<br>&nbsp;</p><p>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.<br>&nbsp;</p><p>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.</p><h3>Does just good bowling help?<br>&nbsp;</h3><p>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;<br>&nbsp;</p><p>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;<br>&nbsp;</p><p>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;<br>&nbsp;</p><p>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;<br>&nbsp;</p><p>To conclude, the team effort is all it takes to be successful.&nbsp;</p>

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.

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p><p><strong>Also Read</strong> - <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></p><p>"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.</p><p>"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.</p><p>"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."</p><p>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.</p>

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.

<p>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.</p>

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

<p>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:</p><p><strong>Also Read</strong> - <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></p><p>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.</p><p>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.</p><p><strong>Coming to head-to-head record in each of these SENA countries:</strong></p><p><strong>Akram vs Bumrah in Australia</strong> - 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.</p><p><strong>Akram vs Bumrah in England</strong> - 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.</p><p><strong>Akram vs Bumrah in New Zealand</strong> - There's not much of a competition with Akram having 50 wickets in seven Tests while Bumrah has just six wickets in two Tests.</p><p><strong>Akram vs Bumrah in South Africa</strong> - Bumrah edges past Akram in SA with 38 wickets in eight Tests while the Pak great has just seven wickets in two Tests.</p><p>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.</p>

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.

<p>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.</p>

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

<p>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.</p><p>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:</p><p><strong>Also Read -</strong> <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></p><p>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.</p><p>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.</p><p>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.</p><p>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.</p><p>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.</p>

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.

<p>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.</p>

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

<p>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.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>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.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ravichandran-ashwin-locked-in-ball-tampering-controversy-in-tnpl-2025-dindigul-dragons-madurai-panthers-1750078178105"><strong>Ravi Ashwin locked in ball-tampering controversy in TNPL 2025; organisers ask Madurai Panthers for proof</strong></a><br>&nbsp;</p><p>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.<br>&nbsp;</p><p>"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.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>"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.<br>&nbsp;</p><p>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.<br>&nbsp;</p><p>"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.<br>&nbsp;</p><p>"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.</p>

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.

<p>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.</p>

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

  South African bowlers with most wickets in international cricket

Kagiso Rabada is the latest in line of great South African bowlers who have taken a lot of wickets in international cricket. With his 7-wicket haul in WTC Final 2025, he now has 575 international wickets for SA.

South African bowlers with most wickets in international cricket

Bowlers to bowl most no-balls in Tests since October 2024

Bowling a no-ball is never appreciated and it is considered near to a crime in Test cricket. The bowlers who have bowled most no balls in Test cricket since 2024, however, also includes Jasprit Bumrah.

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

<p>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.</p><p>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."</p><p><strong>Also Read</strong> - <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></p><p>"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.</p><p>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:</p>

<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/DKE9N3-sLiP/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:540px; min-width:326px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);"><div style="padding:16px;"> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DKE9N3-sLiP/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank"> <div style=" display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div></div></div><div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display:block; height:50px; margin:0 auto 12px; width:50px;"><svg width="50px" height="50px" viewBox="0 0 60 60" version="1.1" xmlns="https://www.w3.org/2000/svg" xmlns:xlink="https://www.w3.org/1999/xlink"><g stroke="none" stroke-width="1" fill="none" fill-rule="evenodd"><g transform="translate(-511.000000, -20.000000)" fill="#000000"><g><path d="M556.869,30.41 C554.814,30.41 553.148,32.076 553.148,34.131 C553.148,36.186 554.814,37.852 556.869,37.852 C558.924,37.852 560.59,36.186 560.59,34.131 C560.59,32.076 558.924,30.41 556.869,30.41 M541,60.657 C535.114,60.657 530.342,55.887 530.342,50 C530.342,44.114 535.114,39.342 541,39.342 C546.887,39.342 551.658,44.114 551.658,50 C551.658,55.887 546.887,60.657 541,60.657 M541,33.886 C532.1,33.886 524.886,41.1 524.886,50 C524.886,58.899 532.1,66.113 541,66.113 C549.9,66.113 557.115,58.899 557.115,50 C557.115,41.1 549.9,33.886 541,33.886 M565.378,62.101 C565.244,65.022 564.756,66.606 564.346,67.663 C563.803,69.06 563.154,70.057 562.106,71.106 C561.058,72.155 560.06,72.803 558.662,73.347 C557.607,73.757 556.021,74.244 553.102,74.378 C549.944,74.521 548.997,74.552 541,74.552 C533.003,74.552 532.056,74.521 528.898,74.378 C525.979,74.244 524.393,73.757 523.338,73.347 C521.94,72.803 520.942,72.155 519.894,71.106 C518.846,70.057 518.197,69.06 517.654,67.663 C517.244,66.606 516.755,65.022 516.623,62.101 C516.479,58.943 516.448,57.996 516.448,50 C516.448,42.003 516.479,41.056 516.623,37.899 C516.755,34.978 517.244,33.391 517.654,32.338 C518.197,30.938 518.846,29.942 519.894,28.894 C520.942,27.846 521.94,27.196 523.338,26.654 C524.393,26.244 525.979,25.756 528.898,25.623 C532.057,25.479 533.004,25.448 541,25.448 C548.997,25.448 549.943,25.479 553.102,25.623 C556.021,25.756 557.607,26.244 558.662,26.654 C560.06,27.196 561.058,27.846 562.106,28.894 C563.154,29.942 563.803,30.938 564.346,32.338 C564.756,33.391 565.244,34.978 565.378,37.899 C565.522,41.056 565.552,42.003 565.552,50 C565.552,57.996 565.522,58.943 565.378,62.101 M570.82,37.631 C570.674,34.438 570.167,32.258 569.425,30.349 C568.659,28.377 567.633,26.702 565.965,25.035 C564.297,23.368 562.623,22.342 560.652,21.575 C558.743,20.834 556.562,20.326 553.369,20.18 C550.169,20.033 549.148,20 541,20 C532.853,20 531.831,20.033 528.631,20.18 C525.438,20.326 523.257,20.834 521.349,21.575 C519.376,22.342 517.703,23.368 516.035,25.035 C514.368,26.702 513.342,28.377 512.574,30.349 C511.834,32.258 511.326,34.438 511.181,37.631 C511.035,40.831 511,41.851 511,50 C511,58.147 511.035,59.17 511.181,62.369 C511.326,65.562 511.834,67.743 512.574,69.651 C513.342,71.625 514.368,73.296 516.035,74.965 C517.703,76.634 519.376,77.658 521.349,78.425 C523.257,79.167 525.438,79.673 528.631,79.82 C531.831,79.965 532.853,80.001 541,80.001 C549.148,80.001 550.169,79.965 553.369,79.82 C556.562,79.673 558.743,79.167 560.652,78.425 C562.623,77.658 564.297,76.634 565.965,74.965 C567.633,73.296 568.659,71.625 569.425,69.651 C570.167,67.743 570.674,65.562 570.82,62.369 C570.966,59.17 571,58.147 571,50 C571,41.851 570.966,40.831 570.82,37.631"></path></g></g></g></svg></div><div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style=" color:#3897f0; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:550; line-height:18px;">View this post on Instagram</div></div><div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"><div> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"></div> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"></div></div><div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"></div> <div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg)"></div></div><div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style=" width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"></div> <div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"></div></div></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"></div></div></a><p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DKE9N3-sLiP/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by ICC (@icc)</a></p></div></blockquote>
<script async src="//www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script>

<p>"It feels very special, very grateful and very fortunate to be able to get this opportunity again," he told the BCCI.tv.</p><p>"Really looking forward and excited to grab this opportunity with both hands.</p><p>"I am sure there will be a lot of feelings – ones that I cannot express right now and it will be a special feeling."</p><p>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.</p>

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:

<p>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.</p>

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

<p>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.</p><p>“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.</p><p><strong>Also Read</strong> - <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></p><p>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.</p><p>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.</p><p>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.</p><p>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.</p><p>“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.</p><p>“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.</p>

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.

<p>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.</p>

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

<p>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.</p><p>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.</p><p><strong>Also Read -</strong> <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></p><p>"Yes, definitely," said Jaddu, as he is fondly called, when asked if he's ever had captaincy aspirations.</p><p>"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.</p><p>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.</p><p>"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.</p>

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.

<p>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.</p>

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

England finished day 1 of the only Test against Zimbabwe on 498/1 - the second most runs ever on opening day of a Test cricket match.

Most Runs on Opening Day of a Test Match

<p>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.'</p><p>"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.</p><p>"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.</p><p><strong>Also Read -</strong> <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></p><p>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.</p><p>"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.</p><p>"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.</p><p>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.</p><p>India would be very different team on England tour with a new captain and a couple of new batters in the middle order.</p>

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.

<p>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.</p>

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

Highest Test Opening Partnership for England at Home

290 by Colin Cowdrey and Geoff Pullar in 1960 vs SA

268 by Jack Hobbs and Herbert Sutcliffe in 1924 vs SA

231 by Ben Duckett and Zak Crawley in 2025 vs ZIM

225 by Mike Atherton and Graham Gooch in 2025 vs IND

223 by Graeme Fowler and Chris Tavare in 1983 vs NZ

Ben Duckett and Zak Crawley added 225 runs for the opening wicket vs Zimbabwe in one-off Test at Nottingham on Thursday (May 21) - third highest Test opening partnership for England at home.

The first hat-trick in Test cricket - Check who achieved this remarkable feat

History of Cricket

What is a Hat-Trick in Cricket? 

The First Hat-Trick Ever

A Bowling Legend

Australian Hall of Fame induction

Cricket has a long history and many players have etched their names in the game.  Among them, it was Australia's Fred Spofforth who claimed the first hat-trick in Tests. Sports Cricket

Rohit Sharma's Best Knocks In Test Cricket

177 on debut in Kolkata, vs West Indies (2013)

176 & 127 at Vizag, vs South Africa (2019)

212 in Ranchi, vs South Africa (2019)

161 at Chepauk, vs England (2021)

83 at Lord's, vs England (2021)

127 at The Oval, vs England (2021)

120 in Nagpur, vs Australia (2023)

131 at Rajkot, vs England (2024)

Cricket, Sports | Rohit Sharma's Best Knocks In Test Cricket Hitman red-ball career Test retirement 

<p>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'.</p>
<h2><strong>'To me, it looks that the Melbourne Test would be Rohit Sharma's last'</strong></h2>
<p>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."</p>
<div id="checktheseout2" class="checktheseout2">
<div class="story__recommended__chunk">
<div class="recommended__story"><strong>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></strong></div>
<div class="recommended__story">
<p>"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.</p>
<p>Rohit has had a poor run in the five-match series in Australia.</p>
<p>He missed the BGT 2024-25 series opener, which India won in Perth under vice-captain Jasprit Bumrah.</p>
<p>Since he came back, things went downhill for the visitors. Rohit was criticised for his captaincy calls and scores of <span>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;</span></p>
<p class="edpara">Former India head coach Ravi Shastri also opined on Rohit.</p>
<p class="edpara">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."</p>
<p class="edpara">In 67 Tests, Rohit has 4,301 runs at an average of 40.57 with 12 centuries and 18 half-centuries under his belt.</p>
<p class="edpara">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.</p>
<div id="checktheseout5" class="checktheseout5"></div>
</div>
</div>
</div>

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

Best Test Bowling Average In A Year (Minimum: 70 Wickets)

Jasprit Bumrah (India)

Muttiah Muralitharan (Sri Lanka)

Shane Warne (Australia)

Allan Donald (South Africa)

Dale Steyn (South Africa)

Malcolm Marshall (West Indies)

Cricket, Sports | Best Test Bowling Average In A Year Minimum 70 Wickets Jasprit Bumrah Muralitharan Shane Warne Allan Donald Dale Steyn Malcolm Marshall

<p>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.</p>
<h2><strong>'Virat will play 3-4 more years, it's a call for Rohit'</strong></h2>
<p>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."</p>
<p><strong>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></strong></p>
<p>"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.</p>
<p>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.</p>
<p>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.</p>
<p>The 2024/25 BGT is currently tied at 1-1 with one more Test to play.</p>

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

Jasprit Bumrah's Test Wickets Against Each Team

Bumrah vs England

Bumrah vs Australia

Bumrah vs South Africa

Bumrah vs West Indies

Bumrah vs Bangladesh

Bumrah vs Sri Lanka

Bumrah vs New Zealand

Sports Cricket - Jasprit Bumrah has most Test wickets against England followed by Australia, South Africa, West Indies, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka and New Zealand.

test-cricket

Test Cricket, News on Test Cricket, stories on Test Cricket, articles on Test Cricket, Test Cricket stories at Wion, Test Cricket news, Test Cricket latest news

test cricket

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

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

Wicketkeeper-batters with Most Runs in One Test

Pant surpasses Sangakkara for most Test tons as wicketkeeper-batter from Asia

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

'My name in headline boosts viewership,' Bumrah on his workload & injury talks

Bumrah vs Akram - who is better Test bowler in SENA countries

Biggest flop in ENG? Dhoni lost more Tests than Kohli, Dravid & Ganguly combined

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

South African bowlers with most wickets in international cricket

Bowlers to bowl most no-balls in Tests since October 2024

Highest partnerships in WTC history - No Indian pair in top five

Nair gets Karnataka teammate's backing before impending return to cricket

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

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

Most Runs on Opening Day of a Test Match

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

Highest Test Opening Partnership for England at Home

The first hat-trick in Test cricket - Check who achieved this remarkable feat

Rohit Sharma's Best Knocks In Test Cricket

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

Best Test Bowling Average In A Year (Minimum: 70 Wickets)

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

Jasprit Bumrah's Test Wickets Against Each Team