England named an unchanged squad on Monday for this week's third Test against Australia at Headingley, with the injured James Anderson continuing his bid to return later in the series.

The selectors kept faith with the XI that drew the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashes-2019-marnus-labuschagne-stars-as-australia-draw-second-test-244005">second Ashes Test at Lord's</a> on Sunday, with England having the better of an exciting last day before Australia held out to preserve their 1-0 lead in the five-match series.

Surrey left-arm seamer Sam Curran, who did not play at Lord's, retained his place in a 12-man squad for the third Test, which starts at England captain Joe Root's Headingley home ground on Thursday.

Anderson, England's all-time leading Test wicket-taker, did not play at Lord's because of a calf injury that restricted him to just four overs in Australia's 251-run win in the first Test at Edgbaston.&nbsp;

Fast bowler Jofra Archer took five wickets on his Test debut at Lord's in Anderson's place.

Anderson, however, is to continue his rehabilitation this week by playing for Lancashire second XI against Leicestershire in a three-day friendly match in Liverpool starting on Tuesday.&nbsp;

He will be assessed on an ongoing basis ahead of selection for the fourth Test at Old Trafford -- Anderson's home ground -- starting on Wednesday, September 4.

England squad:

Rory Burns (Surrey), Jason Roy (Surrey), Joe Root (Yorkshire, capt), Joe Denly (Kent), Ben Stokes (Durham), Jos Buttler (Lancashire), Jonny Bairstow (Yorkshire, wkt), Chris Woakes (Warwickshire), Jofra Archer (Sussex), Stuart Broad (Nottinghamshire), Jack Leach (Somerset), Sam Curran (Surrey)

England named an unchanged squad on Monday for this week's third Test against Australia at Headingley, with the injured James Anderson continuing his bid to return later in the series.

England named an unchanged squad on Monday for this week's third Test against Australia at Headingley, with the injured James Anderson continuing his bid to return later in the series. The selectors kept faith with the XI that drew the second Ashes Test at Lord's on Sunday, with England having the better of an exciting last day before Australia held out to preserve their 1-0 lead in the five-match series. Surrey left-arm seamer Sam Curran, who did not play at Lord's, retained his place in a 12-man squad for the third Test, which starts at England captain Joe Root's Headingley home ground on Thursday. Anderson, England's all-time leading Test wicket-taker, did not play at Lord's because of a calf injury that restricted him to just four overs in Australia's 251-run win in the first Test at Edgbaston. Fast bowler Jofra Archer took five wickets on his Test debut at Lord's in Anderson's place. Anderson, however, is to continue his rehabilitation this week by playing for Lancashire second XI against Leicestershire in a three-day friendly match in Liverpool starting on Tuesday. He will be assessed on an ongoing basis ahead of selection for the fourth Test at Old Trafford -- Anderson's home ground -- starting on Wednesday, September 4. England squad: Rory Burns (Surrey), Jason Roy (Surrey), Joe Root (Yorkshire, capt), Joe Denly (Kent), Ben Stokes (Durham), Jos Buttler (Lancashire), Jonny Bairstow (Yorkshire, wkt), Chris Woakes (Warwickshire), Jofra Archer (Sussex), Stuart Broad (Nottinghamshire), Jack Leach (Somerset), Sam Curran (Surrey)

Ashes 2019: England unchanged for Headingley Test as James Anderson continues recovery

Skipper Dimuth Karunaratne led by example, hitting a sparkling 122 to help secure Sri Lanka's six-wicket victory against New Zealand in the opening Test at Galle on Sunday.

Chasing 268 to go 1-0 up in the two-Test series, Karunaratne's 161-run opening stand with Lahiru Thirimanne (64) set the tone for a successful chase at the Galle International Stadium.

New Zealand spinners claimed two wickets in successive overs to try and prevent it from being a cakewalk but Karunaratne's ninth Test century effectively killed off the contest.

Karunaratne stroked six boundaries and hit one six before the right hander perished when he was caught behind chasing a wide Tim Southee delivery.

The second and final Test in Colombo begins on Thursday.

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Sri Lanka kickstart their ICC World Test Championship campaign in style with a brilliant six-wicket win over New Zealand. 
 
Skipper Dimuth Karunaratne led from the front with a terrific 122. 
 
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Resuming the final day on 133 for no loss, the opening pair continued their good work until Will Somerville trapped Thirimanne lbw on review after the initial appeal was rejected.

Kusal Mendis (10) looked in a hurry to seal the match as he hit Somerville for a six and a four before his attempted sweep off Ajaz Patel found Jeet Raval at midwicket.

Karunaratne brought up his 100 with his fifth boundary, raising his hands aloft to celebrate the mark.

Kusal Perera made a quick 23 from five boundaries while Angelo Mathews (28 not out) hit the winning run as Sri Lanka romped home in an extended morning session and clinched 60 points in the newly created Test championship.

Skipper Dimuth Karunaratne led by example, hitting a sparkling 122 to help secure Sri Lanka's six-wicket victory against New Zealand in the opening Test at Galle on Sunday.

Skipper Dimuth Karunaratne led by example, hitting a sparkling 122 to help secure Sri Lanka's six-wicket victory against New Zealand in the opening Test at Galle on Sunday. Chasing 268 to go 1-0 up in the two-Test series, Karunaratne's 161-run opening stand with Lahiru Thirimanne (64) set the tone for a successful chase at the Galle International Stadium. New Zealand spinners claimed two wickets in successive overs to try and prevent it from being a cakewalk but Karunaratne's ninth Test century effectively killed off the contest. Karunaratne stroked six boundaries and hit one six before the right hander perished when he was caught behind chasing a wide Tim Southee delivery. The second and final Test in Colombo begins on Thursday. Sri Lanka kickstart their ICC World Test Championship campaign in style with a brilliant six-wicket win over New Zealand. Skipper Dimuth Karunaratne led from the front with a terrific 122. SCORECARD: https://t.co/tk1bG2fLyn pic.twitter.com/iyXTJx09Z7 — ICC (@ICC) August 18, 2019 × Resuming the final day on 133 for no loss, the opening pair continued their good work until Will Somerville trapped Thirimanne lbw on review after the initial appeal was rejected. Kusal Mendis (10) looked in a hurry to seal the match as he hit Somerville for a six and a four before his attempted sweep off Ajaz Patel found Jeet Raval at midwicket. Karunaratne brought up his 100 with his fifth boundary, raising his hands aloft to celebrate the mark. Kusal Perera made a quick 23 from five boundaries while Angelo Mathews (28 not out) hit the winning run as Sri Lanka romped home in an extended morning session and clinched 60 points in the newly created Test championship.

Galle Test: Sri Lanka beat New Zealand by six wickets

New Zealand captain Kane Williamson praised Sri Lanka skipper <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sri-lanka-beat-new-zealand-in-first-test-by-six-wickets-243792">Dimuth Karunaratne's brilliant match-winning ton</a> saying that it was a 'fantastic hundred'.&nbsp;

"I think in a last-innings chase, a lot of credit goes to the way Sri Lanka batted. It was a fantastic hundred by Dimuth," ESPN Cricinfo quoted Williamson as saying.&nbsp;

Karunaratne played a knock of 122 runs which helped his side chase a target of 268 runs and consequently, Sri Lanka secured a six-wicket victory in the first Test match. Williamson also said that they thought the wicket would deteriorate more than it did.

"We thought the wicket would deteriorate more than it did. It perhaps got slower. It wasn't turning a huge amount out of the rough. It didn't get more difficult to bat on. I think there was a little bit more bounce and the turn was a little bit quicker in the first innings," Williamson said.&nbsp;

"Though, saying that, it was a good batting surface as well. I thought our bowlers operated patiently for a long period of time. We probably even bowled better in the second innings, but without the edges going to hand, and those sorts of things, which is the nature of the game we play," he added.&nbsp;

Williamson failed in both the innings as he was sent back to the pavilion on a duck in the first inning and managed to score just four runs in the second.

"Personally I was probably looking to be too positive when it wasn't really required. In hindsight, if you go back in time, that wouldn't have been the option, because the wicket was pretty much just getting slower rather than deteriorating," Williamson said.&nbsp;

The second Test between Sri Lanka and New Zealand will start from August 22.

New Zealand captain Kane Williamson praised Sri Lanka skipper Dimuth Karunaratne's brilliant match-winning ton saying that it was a 'fantastic hundred'. "I think in a last-innings chase, a lot of credit goes to the way Sri Lanka batted.

New Zealand captain Kane Williamson praised Sri Lanka skipper Dimuth Karunaratne's brilliant match-winning ton saying that it was a 'fantastic hundred'. "I think in a last-innings chase, a lot of credit goes to the way Sri Lanka batted. It was a fantastic hundred by Dimuth," ESPN Cricinfo quoted Williamson as saying. Karunaratne played a knock of 122 runs which helped his side chase a target of 268 runs and consequently, Sri Lanka secured a six-wicket victory in the first Test match. Williamson also said that they thought the wicket would deteriorate more than it did. "We thought the wicket would deteriorate more than it did. It perhaps got slower. It wasn't turning a huge amount out of the rough. It didn't get more difficult to bat on. I think there was a little bit more bounce and the turn was a little bit quicker in the first innings," Williamson said. "Though, saying that, it was a good batting surface as well. I thought our bowlers operated patiently for a long period of time. We probably even bowled better in the second innings, but without the edges going to hand, and those sorts of things, which is the nature of the game we play," he added. Williamson failed in both the innings as he was sent back to the pavilion on a duck in the first inning and managed to score just four runs in the second. "Personally I was probably looking to be too positive when it wasn't really required. In hindsight, if you go back in time, that wouldn't have been the option, because the wicket was pretty much just getting slower rather than deteriorating," Williamson said. The second Test between Sri Lanka and New Zealand will start from August 22.

It was a fantastic hundred by Dimuth: Kane Williamson

Australia have announced the&nbsp;12-member squad for the second Test of a five-match Ashes series, which is scheduled to begin on August 14 at Lord's cricket stadium.&nbsp;

James Pattinson, who picked two wickets and also scored a crucial unbeaten 47-run knock in the second innings of the first Test, has been left out.&nbsp;

Left-arm pacer Mitchell Starc, who did not play the first Test at Edgbaston because he was recovering from a knee injury, is included in the 15-man squad.

Josh Hazlewood has also been named as he impressed during last week's&nbsp;tour match at Worcester, where he returned figures of 3-34.

The playing XI will be announced at the time of toss.&nbsp;

"What is fortunate at the moment is we've got six fit and healthy fast bowlers," &nbsp;said head coach Justin Langer at Monday's pre-match press conference.

"I've been coaching for about 10 years now and I can't ever remember having that luxury, but it could change like that so we're not getting carried away with it.

"The fact that we had Josh and Mitch on the bench in the last Test match, it doesn't happen very often," the coach added.&nbsp;

Australia is currently leading the series 1-0 after winning the first Test match by 251 runs.&nbsp;

David Warner, who failed to leave an impact in&nbsp;the Edgbaston Test, will again open for Australia alongside&nbsp;Cameron Bancroft.&nbsp;

On being asked about Warner's form, coach Justin Langer said, "I like it when great players miss out."&nbsp;

"It means statistically they'll probably get some pretty soon, so hopefully it's this Test," Langer quoted by&nbsp;cricket.com.au.&nbsp;

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James Pattinson left out of the squad for Lord's, but who makes the final XI? <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ashes?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ashes</a> <a href="https://t.co/dun3xghD10">https://t.co/dun3xghD10</a>
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Australia's XII for Lord's Test: David Warner, Cameron Bancroft, Usman Khawaja, Steve Smith, Travis Head, Matthew Wade, Tim Paine (C/WK), Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, Peter Siddle, Nathan Lyon, Josh Hazlewood&nbsp;

Australia have announced the 12-member squad for the second Test of a five-match Ashes series, which is scheduled to begin on August 14 at Lord's cricket stadium.

Australia have announced the 12-member squad for the second Test of a five-match Ashes series, which is scheduled to begin on August 14 at Lord's cricket stadium. James Pattinson, who picked two wickets and also scored a crucial unbeaten 47-run knock in the second innings of the first Test, has been left out. Left-arm pacer Mitchell Starc, who did not play the first Test at Edgbaston because he was recovering from a knee injury, is included in the 15-man squad. Josh Hazlewood has also been named as he impressed during last week's tour match at Worcester, where he returned figures of 3-34. The playing XI will be announced at the time of toss. "What is fortunate at the moment is we've got six fit and healthy fast bowlers," said head coach Justin Langer at Monday's pre-match press conference. "I've been coaching for about 10 years now and I can't ever remember having that luxury, but it could change like that so we're not getting carried away with it. "The fact that we had Josh and Mitch on the bench in the last Test match, it doesn't happen very often," the coach added. Australia is currently leading the series 1-0 after winning the first Test match by 251 runs. David Warner, who failed to leave an impact in the Edgbaston Test, will again open for Australia alongside Cameron Bancroft. On being asked about Warner's form, coach Justin Langer said, "I like it when great players miss out." "It means statistically they'll probably get some pretty soon, so hopefully it's this Test," Langer quoted by cricket.com.au. James Pattinson left out of the squad for Lord's, but who makes the final XI? #Ashes https://t.co/dun3xghD10 — cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) August 13, 2019 × Australia's XII for Lord's Test: David Warner, Cameron Bancroft, Usman Khawaja, Steve Smith, Travis Head, Matthew Wade, Tim Paine (C/WK), Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, Peter Siddle, Nathan Lyon, Josh Hazlewood

Ashes 2019: Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood named in Australia's 12-man squad for Lord's Test

Australia captain Tim Paine on Monday hailed Steve Smith as "probably the best Test batsman we've ever seen" after his man-of-the-match performance in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australia-win-first-ashes-test-against-england-by-251-runs-240911">first Ashes Test at Edgbaston</a>.

The tourists beat England by 251 runs to win the first game of the five-match series.&nbsp;

England, set an imposing target of 398 to win, collapsed to 97-7 in the post-lunch session on the fifth and final day before being bowled out for 146.

Off-spinner Nathan Lyon took 6-49 and fast bowler Pat Cummins 4-32 as Australia enjoyed their first win in all formats at Edgbaston since 2001 -- the last time they won an Ashes series in England.

The match was a personal triumph for Australia's Steve Smith, who in his first Test since a 12-month ban for his role in a ball-tampering scandal, scored 144 and 142.

Smith was the hero for Australia as they battled back from 122-8 in the first innings.

"I thought we were certainly up against it at that stage but we had the best player in the world at the crease," said Paine.

"Steve showed his class in both innings. We're running out of things to say about Smithy. He's probably the best Test batsman we've ever seen. We're lucky to witness it.

"Nathan bowled superbly but our three quicks took a lot of pressure off him at the other end as well. The seamers were sensational.

"We thought we could improve on our first-innings performance with the ball. All those guys are world-class performers. This morning all four of them were sensational.

"We know every Test we play in England, the crowd will be against us. I thought the guys handled themselves really well and we've come out on top."

Australia captain Tim Paine on Monday hailed Steve Smith as "probably the best Test batsman we've ever seen" after his man-of-the-match performance in the first Ashes Test at Edgbaston.

Australia captain Tim Paine on Monday hailed Steve Smith as "probably the best Test batsman we've ever seen" after his man-of-the-match performance in the first Ashes Test at Edgbaston. The tourists beat England by 251 runs to win the first game of the five-match series. England, set an imposing target of 398 to win, collapsed to 97-7 in the post-lunch session on the fifth and final day before being bowled out for 146. Off-spinner Nathan Lyon took 6-49 and fast bowler Pat Cummins 4-32 as Australia enjoyed their first win in all formats at Edgbaston since 2001 -- the last time they won an Ashes series in England. The match was a personal triumph for Australia's Steve Smith, who in his first Test since a 12-month ban for his role in a ball-tampering scandal, scored 144 and 142. Smith was the hero for Australia as they battled back from 122-8 in the first innings. "I thought we were certainly up against it at that stage but we had the best player in the world at the crease," said Paine. "Steve showed his class in both innings. We're running out of things to say about Smithy. He's probably the best Test batsman we've ever seen. We're lucky to witness it. "Nathan bowled superbly but our three quicks took a lot of pressure off him at the other end as well. The seamers were sensational. "We thought we could improve on our first-innings performance with the ball. All those guys are world-class performers. This morning all four of them were sensational. "We know every Test we play in England, the crowd will be against us. I thought the guys handled themselves really well and we've come out on top."

Steve Smith hailed as 'best Test batsman we've seen' by Australia's Tim Paine

Australia's Steve Smith insisted he had never lost faith in his ability as his "dream comeback" to Test cricket continued with a second hundred in the Ashes opener at Edgbaston.

Smith made 142 in Australia's second innings 487-7 declared on Sunday after the star batsman's 144 bailed them out to 284 following a collapse to 122-8 in their first innings.

With Matthew Wade making 110 on the fourth day as well, Australia set England an imposing target of 398.

Former Australia captain Smith and then deputy David Warner were both given 12-month bans for their roles in a ball-tampering scandal last year, with Cameron Bancroft -- who actually applied sandpaper to the ball during a Test against South Africa in Cape Town -- hit with a nine-month suspension by Cricket Australia.

All three batsmen are making their Test returns in this match, although Smith and Warner's international comeback came during the World Cup, where Australia lost to eventual champions England in an Edgbaston semi-final last month.

'Incredibly special'

"I've never doubted my ability," Smith told reporters after stumps.

"But, it's kind of a dream comeback in a way. To be able to score two hundreds in a match, in the first Ashes match, it's something I have never done in any form of cricket before in my life.&nbsp;It's incredibly special."

He added: "It feels like Christmas morning every morning getting to come and do this."

Sunday was also memorable for Wade, once Australia's wicketkeeper but now selected as a specialist batsman.

Wade, whose hundred was his first in Ashes cricket, had the best view at a packed Edgbaston while helping Smith add 126 for the fifth wicket, but said batting with him could be difficult.

"It's daunting to be honest," he explained.&nbsp;"Sometimes he makes it look way too easy and it hurts.&nbsp;

"He said to me the other day at breakfast he'd never scored a hundred in both innings of a Test match.&nbsp;

"When he said that, I thought we were going to be in for something special."

England batting coach Graham Thorpe praised Smith's two innings by saying: "In many ways you have to admire it and appreciate you are watching someone who is a fantastic player."

England were without James Anderson for the whole of Australia's second innings after their all-time leading Test wicket-taker remained sidelined with a calf injury that meant he bowled just four overs in the match.

Anderson missed last week's Test win over Ireland with calf trouble but former England batsman Thorpe defended the decision to bring him back for this match.

"A guy who has played as many Test matches as he has, we have to trust his view," he insisted.

England will resume Monday on 13-0, with Rory Burns, fresh from his maiden Test century in the first innings, and Jason Roy at the crease.&nbsp;

Only one of England's previous 33 home Tests has ended in a draw but Thorpe backed his side to bat out the day.&nbsp;

"We have got the character and the challenge is ahead of our guys tomorrow," he said. "It will not be easy but this is Test cricket."

Australia's Steve Smith insisted he had never lost faith in his ability as his "dream comeback" to Test cricket continued with a second hundred in the Ashes opener at Edgbaston.

Australia's Steve Smith insisted he had never lost faith in his ability as his "dream comeback" to Test cricket continued with a second hundred in the Ashes opener at Edgbaston. Smith made 142 in Australia's second innings 487-7 declared on Sunday after the star batsman's 144 bailed them out to 284 following a collapse to 122-8 in their first innings. With Matthew Wade making 110 on the fourth day as well, Australia set England an imposing target of 398. Former Australia captain Smith and then deputy David Warner were both given 12-month bans for their roles in a ball-tampering scandal last year, with Cameron Bancroft -- who actually applied sandpaper to the ball during a Test against South Africa in Cape Town -- hit with a nine-month suspension by Cricket Australia. All three batsmen are making their Test returns in this match, although Smith and Warner's international comeback came during the World Cup, where Australia lost to eventual champions England in an Edgbaston semi-final last month. 'Incredibly special' "I've never doubted my ability," Smith told reporters after stumps. "But, it's kind of a dream comeback in a way. To be able to score two hundreds in a match, in the first Ashes match, it's something I have never done in any form of cricket before in my life. It's incredibly special." He added: "It feels like Christmas morning every morning getting to come and do this." Sunday was also memorable for Wade, once Australia's wicketkeeper but now selected as a specialist batsman. Wade, whose hundred was his first in Ashes cricket, had the best view at a packed Edgbaston while helping Smith add 126 for the fifth wicket, but said batting with him could be difficult. "It's daunting to be honest," he explained. "Sometimes he makes it look way too easy and it hurts. "He said to me the other day at breakfast he'd never scored a hundred in both innings of a Test match. "When he said that, I thought we were going to be in for something special." England batting coach Graham Thorpe praised Smith's two innings by saying: "In many ways you have to admire it and appreciate you are watching someone who is a fantastic player." England were without James Anderson for the whole of Australia's second innings after their all-time leading Test wicket-taker remained sidelined with a calf injury that meant he bowled just four overs in the match. Anderson missed last week's Test win over Ireland with calf trouble but former England batsman Thorpe defended the decision to bring him back for this match. "A guy who has played as many Test matches as he has, we have to trust his view," he insisted. England will resume Monday on 13-0, with Rory Burns, fresh from his maiden Test century in the first innings, and Jason Roy at the crease. Only one of England's previous 33 home Tests has ended in a draw but Thorpe backed his side to bat out the day. "We have got the character and the challenge is ahead of our guys tomorrow," he said. "It will not be easy but this is Test cricket."

'Like Christmas every day': Steve Smith revels in 'dream' Test return

Former New Zealand all-rounder Daniel Vettori's jersey number 11 has been retired, the cricketing board for Kiwi players announced on Monday.

New Zealand's BlackCaps in a tweet said Kiwi players who have represented the country in 200 ODIs have their shirt numbers retired.

Vettori, who wore number 11, has played 291 ODI matches.

"Players that represent New Zealand in 200 ODIs have their shirt number retired. Daniel Vettori who wore number 11 has played the most ODIs for the BLACKCAPS with 291," BlackCaps tweeted.

This comes after New Zealand revealed the Test jersey numbers of its players ahead of the two matches against Sri Lanka.

"The full list of shirt numbers for the #SLvNZ Test squad. Williamson 22Astle 60Blundell 66Boult 18De Grandhomme 77Latham 48Nicholls 86Patel 24Raval 1Somerville 28Santner 74Southee 38Taylor 3Wagner 35Watling 47," BlackCaps tweeted.

The two-Test series, scheduled to be held from August 14 to 26, marks the start of the ICC World Test Championship for the Kiwis.

The team will wear name and number on the Test jersey as it is an initiative by the ICC to help fans connect with the players.

New Zealand's 15-member squad for the upcoming Test series: Kane Williamson (c), Todd Astle, Tom Blundell, BJ Watling (wk), Trent Boult, Colin de Grandhomme, Tom Latham, Henry Nicholls, Ajaz Patel, Jeet Raval, Will Somerville, Mitchell Santner, Tim Southee, Ross Taylor, Neil Wagner.

Former New Zealand all-rounder Daniel Vettori's jersey number 11 has been retired, the cricketing board for Kiwi players announced on Monday. New Zealand's BlackCaps in a tweet said Kiwi players who have represented the country in 200 ODIs have their shirt numbers retired.

Former New Zealand all-rounder Daniel Vettori's jersey number 11 has been retired, the cricketing board for Kiwi players announced on Monday. New Zealand's BlackCaps in a tweet said Kiwi players who have represented the country in 200 ODIs have their shirt numbers retired. Vettori, who wore number 11, has played 291 ODI matches. "Players that represent New Zealand in 200 ODIs have their shirt number retired. Daniel Vettori who wore number 11 has played the most ODIs for the BLACKCAPS with 291," BlackCaps tweeted. This comes after New Zealand revealed the Test jersey numbers of its players ahead of the two matches against Sri Lanka. "The full list of shirt numbers for the #SLvNZ Test squad. Williamson 22Astle 60Blundell 66Boult 18De Grandhomme 77Latham 48Nicholls 86Patel 24Raval 1Somerville 28Santner 74Southee 38Taylor 3Wagner 35Watling 47," BlackCaps tweeted. The two-Test series, scheduled to be held from August 14 to 26, marks the start of the ICC World Test Championship for the Kiwis. The team will wear name and number on the Test jersey as it is an initiative by the ICC to help fans connect with the players. New Zealand's 15-member squad for the upcoming Test series: Kane Williamson (c), Todd Astle, Tom Blundell, BJ Watling (wk), Trent Boult, Colin de Grandhomme, Tom Latham, Henry Nicholls, Ajaz Patel, Jeet Raval, Will Somerville, Mitchell Santner, Tim Southee, Ross Taylor, Neil Wagner.

Daniel Vettori's jersey number 11 retired

Australia set England an imposing target of 398 to win the first Ashes Test after the visitors declared their second innings on 487-7 late on the fourth day at Edgbaston on Sunday.

Steve Smith made 142, his second hundred of the match, in his first Test since he completed a 12-month ban for his role in last year's ball-tampering scandal in South Africa.

Matthew Wade scored 110 as Australia piled on the runs against an England attack missing James Anderson, unable to bowl after breaking down with a calf injury earlier in the match.

England will need to set a new national record if they are to achieve an unlikely victory. The most they have ever made in the fourth innings to win a Test is 332-7 against Australia at Melbourne, back in 1928/29.

Australia 1st Innings 284 (S Smith 144; S Broad 5-86, C Woakes 3-58)

England 1st Innings 374 (R Burns 133, J Root 57, B Stokes 50;&nbsp;P Cummins 3-84, N Lyon 3-112)

Australia 2nd Innings (overnight: 124-3)

C. Bancroft c Buttler b Ali&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;7 
D. Warner c Bairstow b Broad&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;8 
U. Khawaja c Bairstow b Stokes&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;40 
S. Smith c Bairstow b Woakes&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;142&nbsp; 
T. Head c Bairstow b Stokes&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;51 
M. Wade c Denly b Stokes&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;110 
T. Paine b Ali&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;34 
J. Pattinson not out&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;47 
P. Cummins not out&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;26 
Extras (b11, lb2, nb6, w3)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;22

Total (7 wickets declared, 112 overs, 500 mins)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;487

Did not bat: P Siddle, N Lyon

Fall of wickets: 1-13 (Warner), 2-27 (Bancroft), 3-75 (Khawaja), 4-205 (Head), 5-331 (Smith), 6-407 (Wade), 7-409 (Paine) 
Bowling: Broad 22-2-91-1 (1w); Woakes 13-1-46-1 (1w); Ali 29-1-130-2 (2nb); Root 12-1-50-0; Stokes 22-5-85-3 (4nb, 1w); Denly 14-1-72-0

England: Rory Burns, Jason Roy, Joe Root (capt), Joe Denly, Jos Buttler, Ben Stokes, Jonny Bairstow (wkt), Moeen Ali, Chris Woakes, Stuart Broad, James Anderson

Match position: England set 398 to win&nbsp;

Toss: Australia

Umpires: Joel Wilson (WIS), Aleem Dar (PAK)

TV umpire: Chris Gaffaney (NZL)

Match referee: Ranjan Madugalle (SRI)

Australia set England an imposing target of 398 to win the first Ashes Test after the visitors declared their second innings on 487-7 late on the fourth day at Edgbaston on Sunday.

Australia set England an imposing target of 398 to win the first Ashes Test after the visitors declared their second innings on 487-7 late on the fourth day at Edgbaston on Sunday. Steve Smith made 142, his second hundred of the match, in his first Test since he completed a 12-month ban for his role in last year's ball-tampering scandal in South Africa. Matthew Wade scored 110 as Australia piled on the runs against an England attack missing James Anderson, unable to bowl after breaking down with a calf injury earlier in the match. England will need to set a new national record if they are to achieve an unlikely victory. The most they have ever made in the fourth innings to win a Test is 332-7 against Australia at Melbourne, back in 1928/29. Australia 1st Innings 284 (S Smith 144; S Broad 5-86, C Woakes 3-58) England 1st Innings 374 (R Burns 133, J Root 57, B Stokes 50; P Cummins 3-84, N Lyon 3-112) Australia 2nd Innings (overnight: 124-3) C. Bancroft c Buttler b Ali 7 D. Warner c Bairstow b Broad 8 U. Khawaja c Bairstow b Stokes 40 S. Smith c Bairstow b Woakes 142 T. Head c Bairstow b Stokes 51 M. Wade c Denly b Stokes 110 T. Paine b Ali 34 J. Pattinson not out 47 P. Cummins not out 26 Extras (b11, lb2, nb6, w3) 22 Total (7 wickets declared, 112 overs, 500 mins) 487 Did not bat: P Siddle, N Lyon Fall of wickets: 1-13 (Warner), 2-27 (Bancroft), 3-75 (Khawaja), 4-205 (Head), 5-331 (Smith), 6-407 (Wade), 7-409 (Paine) Bowling: Broad 22-2-91-1 (1w); Woakes 13-1-46-1 (1w); Ali 29-1-130-2 (2nb); Root 12-1-50-0; Stokes 22-5-85-3 (4nb, 1w); Denly 14-1-72-0 England: Rory Burns, Jason Roy, Joe Root (capt), Joe Denly, Jos Buttler, Ben Stokes, Jonny Bairstow (wkt), Moeen Ali, Chris Woakes, Stuart Broad, James Anderson Match position: England set 398 to win Toss: Australia Umpires: Joel Wilson (WIS), Aleem Dar (PAK) TV umpire: Chris Gaffaney (NZL) Match referee: Ranjan Madugalle (SRI)

Australia set England 398 to win first Ashes Test

Australia's Steve Smith scored his second hundred of his comeback Test when he reached three figures against England in the Ashes opener at Edgbaston on Sunday.

Smith, 98 not out at lunch on the fourth day, cover-drove fast bowler Stuart Broad for a boundary early in the second session to complete a 147-ball century with his 10th four.

That followed his 144 in the first innings of what is the former Australia captain's first Test since the end of a12-month ban for his role in last year's ball-tampering scandal in South Africa.

Smith is now just the fifth Australia batsman to have made hundreds in both innings of an Ashes Test, following Warren Bardsley (1909), Arthur Morris (1946/47), Steve Waugh (1997) and Matthew Hayden (2002/03).

He celebrated by removing his batting helmet and waving his bat joyously towards the Australia changing room.

And while there was some applause from a packed crowd, there were also renewed chants of "Crying on the telly, we saw you crying on the telly" in a reference to the emotional press conference Smith gave in Sydney after he was sent home from South Africa.

The match in Birmingham has also seen the return to Test cricket of Australia's David Warner and Cameron Bancroft who, like Smith, both received lengthy bans for their parts in the ball-tampering incident that took place during a Test against South Africa in Cape Town.&nbsp;

When Smith, long one of the world's leading batsmen, completed his latest century -- his 25th in 65 Tests -- Australia were 236-4 in their second innings.

That gave them a significant lead of 146 runs.

Only three times have a side made more than 150 in the fourth innings to win a Test at Edgbaston, with the highest such total South Africa's 283-5 in a five-wicket win 11 years ago -- the last time England lost at the Birmingham ground.

Ashes-holders Australia are looking to win their first Test series away to England since 2001.

Australia's Steve Smith scored his second hundred of his comeback Test when he reached three figures against England in the Ashes opener at Edgbaston on Sunday. Smith, 98 not out at lunch on the fourth day, cover-drove fast bowler Stuart Broad for a boundary early in the second session to complete a 147-ball century with his 10th four.

Australia's Steve Smith scored his second hundred of his comeback Test when he reached three figures against England in the Ashes opener at Edgbaston on Sunday. Smith, 98 not out at lunch on the fourth day, cover-drove fast bowler Stuart Broad for a boundary early in the second session to complete a 147-ball century with his 10th four. That followed his 144 in the first innings of what is the former Australia captain's first Test since the end of a12-month ban for his role in last year's ball-tampering scandal in South Africa. Smith is now just the fifth Australia batsman to have made hundreds in both innings of an Ashes Test, following Warren Bardsley (1909), Arthur Morris (1946/47), Steve Waugh (1997) and Matthew Hayden (2002/03). He celebrated by removing his batting helmet and waving his bat joyously towards the Australia changing room. And while there was some applause from a packed crowd, there were also renewed chants of "Crying on the telly, we saw you crying on the telly" in a reference to the emotional press conference Smith gave in Sydney after he was sent home from South Africa. The match in Birmingham has also seen the return to Test cricket of Australia's David Warner and Cameron Bancroft who, like Smith, both received lengthy bans for their parts in the ball-tampering incident that took place during a Test against South Africa in Cape Town. When Smith, long one of the world's leading batsmen, completed his latest century -- his 25th in 65 Tests -- Australia were 236-4 in their second innings. That gave them a significant lead of 146 runs. Only three times have a side made more than 150 in the fourth innings to win a Test at Edgbaston, with the highest such total South Africa's 283-5 in a five-wicket win 11 years ago -- the last time England lost at the Birmingham ground. Ashes-holders Australia are looking to win their first Test series away to England since 2001.

Ashes 2019: Australia's Steve Smith scores second hundred of comeback Test

Former Australia captain Ricky Ponting lavishly praised 'experienced guy'&nbsp;Steve Smith and said that it would be silly if Tim Paine does not use him on the field to strategise the game.&nbsp;

"I read a bit of that stuff this morning, with people online going on about the fact he shouldn`t be doing it because he's not captain. That's an absolute load of rubbish. He's not captain. He's not tossing the coin and he's not picking the team. But an experienced guy like him with a cricket brain that he's got, Tim would be silly to not try and tap into that and not try to use him when he can," Cricket.com.au quoted Ponting as saying.

Ponting's comments came in after Smith was seen offering advice to bowlers and discussing with Paine on numerous occasions during the first Ashes Test match. Smith is not allowed to be the team's captain until March 2020 because of his involvement in the last year's ball-tampering scandal.

Ponting said that the team relies on Smith heavily.

"He's served his time as far as his playing suspension goes and everyone knows he can't captain again until next year. He's part of a team that is relying on him heavily for his experience, so he can help in whichever way and wherever he possibly can," he said.

Ponting further said,&nbsp;"And I'm sure if Painey or anyone around the team wasn't happy with it, then it wouldn't be happening."&nbsp;

Former Australia captain Ricky Ponting lavishly praised 'experienced guy' Steve Smith and said that it would be silly if Tim Paine does not use him on the field to strategise the game.

Former Australia captain Ricky Ponting lavishly praised 'experienced guy' Steve Smith and said that it would be silly if Tim Paine does not use him on the field to strategise the game. "I read a bit of that stuff this morning, with people online going on about the fact he shouldn`t be doing it because he's not captain. That's an absolute load of rubbish. He's not captain. He's not tossing the coin and he's not picking the team. But an experienced guy like him with a cricket brain that he's got, Tim would be silly to not try and tap into that and not try to use him when he can," Cricket.com.au quoted Ponting as saying. Ponting's comments came in after Smith was seen offering advice to bowlers and discussing with Paine on numerous occasions during the first Ashes Test match. Smith is not allowed to be the team's captain until March 2020 because of his involvement in the last year's ball-tampering scandal. Ponting said that the team relies on Smith heavily. "He's served his time as far as his playing suspension goes and everyone knows he can't captain again until next year. He's part of a team that is relying on him heavily for his experience, so he can help in whichever way and wherever he possibly can," he said. Ponting further said, "And I'm sure if Painey or anyone around the team wasn't happy with it, then it wouldn't be happening."

Ricky Ponting feels Tim Paine should use Steve Smith's experience

England were dismissed for 374 in reply to Australia's first-innings 284, a lead of 90 runs, on the third day of the first Test at Edgbaston on Saturday.

Rory Burns batted for nearly eight hours to top-score with 133, his maiden Test hundred, in an innings where England captain Joe Root (57) and vice-captain Ben Stokes (50) both hit half-centuries.

England lost three wickets for four runs before lunch to slump to 300-8 -- just 16 runs ahead.

But a ninth-wicket stand of 65 between Chris Woakes, who made 37 not out on his Warwickshire home ground, and Stuart Broad (29) boosted their total.

Last man James Anderson came out to bat despite suffering a calf injury earlier in the match that meant England's all-time leading Test wicket-taker only bowled four overs in Australia's first innings.

Woakes then declined clear singles in what appeared to be both a bid to keep the strike and reduce the amount of running between the wickets required by Anderson, who was eventually last man out for three when caught slog-sweeping off Nathan Lyon.

Fast bowler Pat Cummins led Australia's attack with 3-84 in 33&nbsp;overs on an increasingly placid pitch, with off-spinner Lyon taking 3-112 in 43.5 overs.&nbsp;

Australia hold the Ashes but they have not won a Test series away to England for 18 years.

England were dismissed for 374 in reply to Australia's first-innings 284, a lead of 90 runs, on the third day of the first Test at Edgbaston on Saturday. Rory Burns batted for nearly eight hours to top-score with 133, his maiden Test hundred, in an innings where England captain Joe Root (57) and vice-captain Ben Stokes (50) both hit half-centuries.

England were dismissed for 374 in reply to Australia's first-innings 284, a lead of 90 runs, on the third day of the first Test at Edgbaston on Saturday. Rory Burns batted for nearly eight hours to top-score with 133, his maiden Test hundred, in an innings where England captain Joe Root (57) and vice-captain Ben Stokes (50) both hit half-centuries. England lost three wickets for four runs before lunch to slump to 300-8 -- just 16 runs ahead. But a ninth-wicket stand of 65 between Chris Woakes, who made 37 not out on his Warwickshire home ground, and Stuart Broad (29) boosted their total. Last man James Anderson came out to bat despite suffering a calf injury earlier in the match that meant England's all-time leading Test wicket-taker only bowled four overs in Australia's first innings. Woakes then declined clear singles in what appeared to be both a bid to keep the strike and reduce the amount of running between the wickets required by Anderson, who was eventually last man out for three when caught slog-sweeping off Nathan Lyon. Fast bowler Pat Cummins led Australia's attack with 3-84 in 33 overs on an increasingly placid pitch, with off-spinner Lyon taking 3-112 in 43.5 overs. Australia hold the Ashes but they have not won a Test series away to England for 18 years.

England 374 all out against Australia in 1st Ashes Test

Nathan Lyon took two wickets in an over as Australia finally saw the back of Rory Burns during an England collapse in the first Ashes Test at Edgbaston on Saturday.

England were 328-8 at lunch on the third day, a first-innings lead of 44 runs, with Chris Woakes 13 not out and Stuart Broad 11 not out.

They had been hoping to build a substantial first-innings advantage but from 296-5 they lost three wickets for four runs in slumping to 300-8.

Ashes debutant Burns was caught behind off the bowling of off-spinner Lyon for 133, his maiden Test century, after a superb feat of endurance that saw the opener spend nearly eight hours at the crease.

England resumed on 267-4, 17 adrift of an Australia total of 284 built on Steve Smith's superb 144 in his first Test since completing a 12-month ban for ball-tampering.

But England had a hundred hero of their own in Burns, 125 not out after batting through the whole of Friday's play. Ben Stokes was unbeaten on 38.

In a match where umpires Joel Wilson and Aleem Dar had both seen several decisions overturned, Burns had enjoyed a lucky break when given not out on 21 in response to an lbw appeal from Lyon.

Replays showed the ball would have hit the left-hander's leg stump, but Australia decided against a review.

Stokes got England going on a sunny Saturday morning with an on-driven four off James Pattinson after the fast bowler came round the wicket.

A quick single then saw Stokes to a 95-ball fifty featuring eight fours.

But Stokes was out for exactly 50 to the next ball he faced when he cut loosely at Cummins and was caught behind by Australia captain and wicketkeeper Tim Paine.

Stokes, in his first match since being restored to the England vice-captaincy following an acquittal on a charge of affray last year, shared a stand of 88 with Burns that had taken England to 282-5.

New batsman Jonny Bairstow gave England the lead when he clipped Pattinson for four through midwicket.

Burns only managed three runs in Saturday's first hour, before driving Peter Siddle for a four through cover-point.

But Lyon, who had repeatedly beaten Burns's bat on Friday, finally ended the Surrey captain's marathon innings when a delivery that turned and bounce took the outside edge and was well caught by Paine.&nbsp;

Burns faced 312 balls, with 17 fours.

By contrast, new batsman Moeen Ali lasted just five balls before he inexplicably shouldered arms to Lyon and was clean bowled for a duck -- the eighth time the spinner had dismissed him in 10 Ashes innings.

Then 300-7 became 300-8 when Bairstow's reckless shot outside off stump against paceman Siddle was well caught at first slip by David Warner.

England now led by just 16 runs, with their two batsmen in the middle -- Woakes and Broad - then each on nought.

But Woakes, on his Warwickshire home ground, hoisted Lyon for a legside six to the delight of the crowd.

Nathan Lyon took two wickets in an over as Australia finally saw the back of Rory Burns during an England collapse in the first Ashes Test at Edgbaston on Saturday.

Nathan Lyon took two wickets in an over as Australia finally saw the back of Rory Burns during an England collapse in the first Ashes Test at Edgbaston on Saturday. England were 328-8 at lunch on the third day, a first-innings lead of 44 runs, with Chris Woakes 13 not out and Stuart Broad 11 not out. They had been hoping to build a substantial first-innings advantage but from 296-5 they lost three wickets for four runs in slumping to 300-8. Ashes debutant Burns was caught behind off the bowling of off-spinner Lyon for 133, his maiden Test century, after a superb feat of endurance that saw the opener spend nearly eight hours at the crease. England resumed on 267-4, 17 adrift of an Australia total of 284 built on Steve Smith's superb 144 in his first Test since completing a 12-month ban for ball-tampering. But England had a hundred hero of their own in Burns, 125 not out after batting through the whole of Friday's play. Ben Stokes was unbeaten on 38. In a match where umpires Joel Wilson and Aleem Dar had both seen several decisions overturned, Burns had enjoyed a lucky break when given not out on 21 in response to an lbw appeal from Lyon. Replays showed the ball would have hit the left-hander's leg stump, but Australia decided against a review. Stokes got England going on a sunny Saturday morning with an on-driven four off James Pattinson after the fast bowler came round the wicket. A quick single then saw Stokes to a 95-ball fifty featuring eight fours. But Stokes was out for exactly 50 to the next ball he faced when he cut loosely at Cummins and was caught behind by Australia captain and wicketkeeper Tim Paine. Stokes, in his first match since being restored to the England vice-captaincy following an acquittal on a charge of affray last year, shared a stand of 88 with Burns that had taken England to 282-5. New batsman Jonny Bairstow gave England the lead when he clipped Pattinson for four through midwicket. Burns only managed three runs in Saturday's first hour, before driving Peter Siddle for a four through cover-point. But Lyon, who had repeatedly beaten Burns's bat on Friday, finally ended the Surrey captain's marathon innings when a delivery that turned and bounce took the outside edge and was well caught by Paine. Burns faced 312 balls, with 17 fours. By contrast, new batsman Moeen Ali lasted just five balls before he inexplicably shouldered arms to Lyon and was clean bowled for a duck -- the eighth time the spinner had dismissed him in 10 Ashes innings. Then 300-7 became 300-8 when Bairstow's reckless shot outside off stump against paceman Siddle was well caught at first slip by David Warner. England now led by just 16 runs, with their two batsmen in the middle -- Woakes and Broad - then each on nought. But Woakes, on his Warwickshire home ground, hoisted Lyon for a legside six to the delight of the crowd.

Ashes - 1st Test, Day 3: Australia's Lyon sparks England collapse

Rory Burns and England captain Joe Root kept Australia at bay on the second day of the first Ashes Test at Edgbaston on Friday.

At lunch, England were 71-1 in their first innings —&nbsp;a deficit of 213 runs.

Burns was 41 not out and Root unbeaten on 11.

England still had plenty of work to do to get back on level terms but a session where they lost just one wicket in opener Jason Roy represented a vast improvement on their first-innings 85 all out in a Test win over Ireland at Lord's last week.&nbsp;

England were 10-0, with left-hander Burns four not out and Surrey team-mate Roy six not out, when play resumed Friday in slightly overcast conditions.

That left them 274 runs behind Australia's first-innings 284 built on a brilliant 144 from Steve Smith, ignoring the jeers of a raucous crowd, in the former captain's first Test innings since he completed a 12-month ban for his role in a ball-tampering scandal in South Africa.

Australia were in dire straits at 122-8 but their last two wickets more than doubled their total, with number 10 Peter Siddle making 44, the second-highest score of the innings, as he put on 88 with Smith.

It was not long before Smith was centre-stage again.

Roy made a blistering 85 in eventual champions England's World Cup semi-final win over Australia at Edgbaston last month.

But in just his second Test, he never looked comfortable against Australia's fast bowlers and it was no surprise when, on 10, he edged a good length ball from James Pattinson low to Smith at second slip, with England then 22-1 in the eighth over.

Burns was then hit a glancing blow on his batting helmet by a Pat Cummins bouncer.

As play continued, the crowd's attention was distracted by a plane flying over Edgbaston trailing the message 'Arise Sir Ben Stokes Barmy Army' -- a tribute to the England all-rounder from a supporters group.

Root had returned to number three from four in a bid to lead from the front with the bat.

But he was almost bowled leaving off-spinner Nathan Lyon's first ball, a sharply turning delivery that just missed the stumps.

Root, England's best batsman, had an even bigger slice of luck on nine when he was given out caught behind off Pattinson only for his review to reveal the ball had hit the off stump without dislodging a bail.

The patient Burns was content to bide his time and pick off anything loose, such as an over-pitched ball from Cummins that he on-drove for four.

Australia hold the Ashes but they have not won a Test series away to England in 18 years.&nbsp;

Rory Burns and England captain Joe Root kept Australia at bay on the second day of the first Ashes Test at Edgbaston on Friday. At lunch, England were 71-1 in their first innings — a deficit of 213 runs.

Rory Burns and England captain Joe Root kept Australia at bay on the second day of the first Ashes Test at Edgbaston on Friday. At lunch, England were 71-1 in their first innings — a deficit of 213 runs. Burns was 41 not out and Root unbeaten on 11. England still had plenty of work to do to get back on level terms but a session where they lost just one wicket in opener Jason Roy represented a vast improvement on their first-innings 85 all out in a Test win over Ireland at Lord's last week. England were 10-0, with left-hander Burns four not out and Surrey team-mate Roy six not out, when play resumed Friday in slightly overcast conditions. That left them 274 runs behind Australia's first-innings 284 built on a brilliant 144 from Steve Smith, ignoring the jeers of a raucous crowd, in the former captain's first Test innings since he completed a 12-month ban for his role in a ball-tampering scandal in South Africa. Australia were in dire straits at 122-8 but their last two wickets more than doubled their total, with number 10 Peter Siddle making 44, the second-highest score of the innings, as he put on 88 with Smith. It was not long before Smith was centre-stage again. Roy made a blistering 85 in eventual champions England's World Cup semi-final win over Australia at Edgbaston last month. But in just his second Test, he never looked comfortable against Australia's fast bowlers and it was no surprise when, on 10, he edged a good length ball from James Pattinson low to Smith at second slip, with England then 22-1 in the eighth over. Burns was then hit a glancing blow on his batting helmet by a Pat Cummins bouncer. As play continued, the crowd's attention was distracted by a plane flying over Edgbaston trailing the message 'Arise Sir Ben Stokes Barmy Army' -- a tribute to the England all-rounder from a supporters group. Root had returned to number three from four in a bid to lead from the front with the bat. But he was almost bowled leaving off-spinner Nathan Lyon's first ball, a sharply turning delivery that just missed the stumps. Root, England's best batsman, had an even bigger slice of luck on nine when he was given out caught behind off Pattinson only for his review to reveal the ball had hit the off stump without dislodging a bail. The patient Burns was content to bide his time and pick off anything loose, such as an over-pitched ball from Cummins that he on-drove for four. Australia hold the Ashes but they have not won a Test series away to England in 18 years.

Rory Burns and Joe Root hold firm for England in Ashes opener

Former Australia captain Ricky Ponting has called for cricket to ditch its requirement for neutral umpires in the wake of a slew of poor decisions that blighted the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashes-2019-eng-v-aus-first-test-day-one-smith-ton-takes-australia-to-284-all-out-in-first-ashes-test-240025">opening day of the Ashes series</a>.

Umpires Aleem Dar and Joel Wilson drew widespread criticism after a rocky day one at Edgbaston on Friday, with a number of their calls over-turned by the decision review system after Australia elected to bat.

English and Australian umpires dominate the ICC's elite umpires panel but are ruled out of officiating the Ashes due to the global cricket's requirement for neutral nation umpires to control matches.

"I would like to think the game has come far enough now for the game to not have neutral umpires,” Ponting told Cricket Australia's website (cricket.com.au).

"People might say that with all the technology we’ve got now, it doesn’t matter that much.

"But it’s not a good spectacle when pretty obviously wrong decisions are made.

"There’s been a lot a negativity about the DRS over the years, but we’re pretty lucky that we had it last night."

Ponting, part of the Cricket Committee at the MCC, the custodians of the Laws of Cricket, said he would raise the matter at the next MCC meeting.

"It's already been spoken about a lot among the players," he said.

"If it's not brought up, I'll make sure it's added to the agenda.

"Surely (English umpire) Richard Kettleborough and the like would want to be umpiring the best series.

"The best umpires can end up missing out on all the big tournaments.

"It could force umpires into retirement a bit early."

Australia were bowled out for 284, with England 10 for no loss at stumps.

Umpiring standards were put in the spotlight after the World Cup final between England and New Zealand at Lord's last month, with Ben Stokes erroneously awarded an extra run by the standing umpires in the 50th over of the home side's chase.

England went on to win the match by total boundaries scored after a tied Super Over.

Former Australia captain Ricky Ponting has called for cricket to ditch its requirement for neutral umpires in the wake of a slew of poor decisions that blighted the opening day of the Ashes series.

Former Australia captain Ricky Ponting has called for cricket to ditch its requirement for neutral umpires in the wake of a slew of poor decisions that blighted the opening day of the Ashes series. Umpires Aleem Dar and Joel Wilson drew widespread criticism after a rocky day one at Edgbaston on Friday, with a number of their calls over-turned by the decision review system after Australia elected to bat. English and Australian umpires dominate the ICC's elite umpires panel but are ruled out of officiating the Ashes due to the global cricket's requirement for neutral nation umpires to control matches. "I would like to think the game has come far enough now for the game to not have neutral umpires,” Ponting told Cricket Australia's website (cricket.com.au). "People might say that with all the technology we’ve got now, it doesn’t matter that much. "But it’s not a good spectacle when pretty obviously wrong decisions are made. "There’s been a lot a negativity about the DRS over the years, but we’re pretty lucky that we had it last night." Ponting, part of the Cricket Committee at the MCC, the custodians of the Laws of Cricket, said he would raise the matter at the next MCC meeting. "It's already been spoken about a lot among the players," he said. "If it's not brought up, I'll make sure it's added to the agenda. "Surely (English umpire) Richard Kettleborough and the like would want to be umpiring the best series. "The best umpires can end up missing out on all the big tournaments. "It could force umpires into retirement a bit early." Australia were bowled out for 284, with England 10 for no loss at stumps. Umpiring standards were put in the spotlight after the World Cup final between England and New Zealand at Lord's last month, with Ben Stokes erroneously awarded an extra run by the standing umpires in the 50th over of the home side's chase. England went on to win the match by total boundaries scored after a tied Super Over.

Re-think neutral umpires, Ricky Ponting says after Ashes debacle

England's star opener Jason Roy took to Twitter and said that it was an honour to receive the Test cap from legendary Alastair Cook in the one-off Test against Ireland.&nbsp;

Roy took to Twitter and wrote, "What an honour it was to receive my cap from this legend. Big boots to fill."&nbsp;

Roy, who was a vital cog for the team's title win in the recently concluded World Cup, will make his Ashes debut, which is scheduled to kick off from August 1.&nbsp;

England coach Trevor Bayliss said that Roy can resolve Test side's top order, which has been their Achilles heel "for the last six or seven years".&nbsp;

In his debut Test match, he played an inning of 5 and 72 against Ireland. England won the only match against Ireland by 143 runs.&nbsp;

And during the World Cup, Roy produced a stunning performance as he amassed 443 runs in seven innings.&nbsp;

Following is the 14-man squad: Joe Root (C), Moeen Ali, James Anderson, Jofra Archer, Jonny Bairstow (wk), Stuart Broad, Rory Burns, Jos Buttler, Sam Curran, Joe Denly, Jason Roy, Ben Stokes (vc), Olly Stone, Chris Woakes.&nbsp;

England and Australia will compete in five Ashes Test matches from August 1 to September 16.&nbsp;

England's star opener Jason Roy took to Twitter and said that it was an honour to receive the Test cap from legendary Alastair Cook in the one-off Test against Ireland.

England's star opener Jason Roy took to Twitter and said that it was an honour to receive the Test cap from legendary Alastair Cook in the one-off Test against Ireland. Roy took to Twitter and wrote, "What an honour it was to receive my cap from this legend. Big boots to fill." Roy, who was a vital cog for the team's title win in the recently concluded World Cup, will make his Ashes debut, which is scheduled to kick off from August 1. England coach Trevor Bayliss said that Roy can resolve Test side's top order, which has been their Achilles heel "for the last six or seven years". In his debut Test match, he played an inning of 5 and 72 against Ireland. England won the only match against Ireland by 143 runs. And during the World Cup, Roy produced a stunning performance as he amassed 443 runs in seven innings. Following is the 14-man squad: Joe Root (C), Moeen Ali, James Anderson, Jofra Archer, Jonny Bairstow (wk), Stuart Broad, Rory Burns, Jos Buttler, Sam Curran, Joe Denly, Jason Roy, Ben Stokes (vc), Olly Stone, Chris Woakes. England and Australia will compete in five Ashes Test matches from August 1 to September 16.

England's Jason Roy is honoured to receive Test cap from Alastair Cook

Pacer Chris Woakes took a six-wicket haul for&nbsp;17 runs as England defeated Ireland by 143 runs in the one-off Test match at Lord's on Friday.&nbsp;

Woakes delivered a brilliant performance and took six wickets to shatter Ireland's dreams of maiden&nbsp;Test win.&nbsp;Stuart Broad was also stunning from the other end as he took the rest of the wickets.&nbsp;

Ireland's&nbsp;second innings lasted just 15.4 overs, however, they made a dream start when Stuart Thompson ended England's second innings on 303 with the first ball of the day, clean bowling Olly Stone on a duck.&nbsp;

After a rain delay, Ireland, chasing 182 for victory, began in encouraging fashion, reaching 11 without loss, but they lost the balance after 9th over and&nbsp;posted the lowest ever Test innings total at Lord's. The visitors were all all-out after scoring just 38 runs.&nbsp;

For Ireland, opener James McCollum scored 11 runs, maximum for the team and the only to score two digits.&nbsp;

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England bowl Ireland out for just 38! 
 
They win the one-off Test by 143 runs. 
 
Three fascinating days of cricket. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ENGvIRE?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ENGvIRE</a> <a href="https://t.co/AFqIADUqMa">pic.twitter.com/AFqIADUqMa</a>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1154737635371429889?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 26, 2019</a></blockquote>
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This was&nbsp;only Ireland's third Test match and they were seeking their maiden victory in the format following defeats by Pakistan and Afghanistan.

Next England will gear up for&nbsp;a five-Test Ashes series against Australia, which is scheduled to start from August 1.&nbsp;

Pacer Chris Woakes took a six-wicket haul for 17 runs as England defeated Ireland by 143 runs in the one-off Test match at Lord's on Friday. Woakes delivered a brilliant performance and took six wickets to shatter Ireland's dreams of maiden Test win.

Pacer Chris Woakes took a six-wicket haul for 17 runs as England defeated Ireland by 143 runs in the one-off Test match at Lord's on Friday. Woakes delivered a brilliant performance and took six wickets to shatter Ireland's dreams of maiden Test win. Stuart Broad was also stunning from the other end as he took the rest of the wickets. Ireland's second innings lasted just 15.4 overs, however, they made a dream start when Stuart Thompson ended England's second innings on 303 with the first ball of the day, clean bowling Olly Stone on a duck. After a rain delay, Ireland, chasing 182 for victory, began in encouraging fashion, reaching 11 without loss, but they lost the balance after 9th over and posted the lowest ever Test innings total at Lord's. The visitors were all all-out after scoring just 38 runs. For Ireland, opener James McCollum scored 11 runs, maximum for the team and the only to score two digits. England bowl Ireland out for just 38! They win the one-off Test by 143 runs. Three fascinating days of cricket. #ENGvIRE pic.twitter.com/AFqIADUqMa — ICC (@ICC) July 26, 2019 × This was only Ireland's third Test match and they were seeking their maiden victory in the format following defeats by Pakistan and Afghanistan. Next England will gear up for a five-Test Ashes series against Australia, which is scheduled to start from August 1.

Chris Woakes, Stuart Broad star in England's 143-run win over Ireland in one-off Test

Pakistan fast bowler Mohammad Amir on Friday announced his retirement from Test matches with immediate effect, but reaffirmed his commitment to playing white-ball cricket.

Amir, who was jailed in 2011 for his part in a spot-fixing scandal, featured in 36 Tests, taking 119 wickets at an average of 30.47.

"It has been an honour to represent Pakistan in the pinnacle and traditional format of the game," the 27-year-old, who made his Test debut against Sri Lanka in Galle in July 2009, said in a statement.

"I, however, have decided to move away from the longer version so I can concentrate on white-ball cricket.

"Playing for Pakistan remains my ultimate desire and objective, and I will try my best to be in the best physical shape to contribute in the team's upcoming challenges, including next year's ICC T20 World Cup."

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He retires from Test cricket with 119 wickets from 36 matches.<a href="https://t.co/UfCtFB9y24">https://t.co/UfCtFB9y24</a>
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Amir was one of three Pakistan players jailed for his part in a spot-fixing scandal against England the previous year, when he was only 18.

After serving three months in prison and a five-year ban from all forms of cricket, Amir returned to the Pakistan squad in Jan. 2016.

The left-arm bowler has since excelled in limited-overs cricket, helping Pakistan to the Champions Trophy title in 2017.

Amir was the pick of the bowlers for Pakistan in the recent 50-overs World Cup in England with 17 wickets but the Sarfaraz Ahmed-led side finished fifth in the group stage and narrowly missed out on a semi-final spot.

"He overcame adversity as a young cricketer and came back stronger not only as a cricketer but also as a better human being," Pakistan Cricket Board managing director Wasim Khan said.

"His skill, on the field, and his personality will be missed in the dressing room in the longer format."

Pakistan fast bowler Mohammad Amir on Friday announced his retirement from Test matches with immediate effect, but reaffirmed his commitment to playing white-ball cricket.

Pakistan fast bowler Mohammad Amir on Friday announced his retirement from Test matches with immediate effect, but reaffirmed his commitment to playing white-ball cricket. Amir, who was jailed in 2011 for his part in a spot-fixing scandal, featured in 36 Tests, taking 119 wickets at an average of 30.47. "It has been an honour to represent Pakistan in the pinnacle and traditional format of the game," the 27-year-old, who made his Test debut against Sri Lanka in Galle in July 2009, said in a statement. "I, however, have decided to move away from the longer version so I can concentrate on white-ball cricket. "Playing for Pakistan remains my ultimate desire and objective, and I will try my best to be in the best physical shape to contribute in the team's upcoming challenges, including next year's ICC T20 World Cup." He retires from Test cricket with 119 wickets from 36 matches.https://t.co/UfCtFB9y24 — ICC (@ICC) July 26, 2019 × Amir was one of three Pakistan players jailed for his part in a spot-fixing scandal against England the previous year, when he was only 18. After serving three months in prison and a five-year ban from all forms of cricket, Amir returned to the Pakistan squad in Jan. 2016. The left-arm bowler has since excelled in limited-overs cricket, helping Pakistan to the Champions Trophy title in 2017. Amir was the pick of the bowlers for Pakistan in the recent 50-overs World Cup in England with 17 wickets but the Sarfaraz Ahmed-led side finished fifth in the group stage and narrowly missed out on a semi-final spot. "He overcame adversity as a young cricketer and came back stronger not only as a cricketer but also as a better human being," Pakistan Cricket Board managing director Wasim Khan said. "His skill, on the field, and his personality will be missed in the dressing room in the longer format."

Pakistan's Mohammad Amir announces retirement from Test cricket

Ireland need 182 to win their <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/leach-and-roy-get-england-back-on-level-terms-against-ireland-238439">one-off Test against England</a> at Lord's on Friday as England, after resuming on their overnight 303 for nine, lost its last wicket on the first ball of the third day's play.&nbsp;

England's second innings ended when debutant Olly Stone was bowled for a duck by a Stuart Thompson inswinger that knocked over his leg stump.&nbsp;

Ireland now have two days in which to get the runs they require, with the match scheduled for four days rather than the standard five.

On day one, Ireland produced a stunning performance as they bowled&nbsp;England out for just 85 in the first innings and in reply to that, Ireland made&nbsp;207.&nbsp;

In their second innings, England&nbsp;suffered another worrying batting collapse but&nbsp;scored a fighting 303, thanks to nightwatchman Jack Leach's 92 and Test debutant Jason Roy's 72.&nbsp;

At the time of filing this update, Ireland's&nbsp;second innings was stopped due to rain after just seven balls being bowled.&nbsp;

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What a start to the day! 
 
Stuart Thompson bowls Olly Stone with the first ball of day three and England are bowled out. 
 
Ireland will need 182 to secure their first ever victory in Test cricket. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ENGvIRE?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ENGvIRE</a> <a href="https://t.co/Whww6PbEhm">pic.twitter.com/Whww6PbEhm</a>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1154696740852908032?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 26, 2019</a></blockquote>
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This is only Ireland's third Test match and victory at Lord's would give them their first win in the format following defeats by Pakistan and Afghanistan.&nbsp;

Ireland need 182 to win their one-off Test against England at Lord's on Friday as England, after resuming on their overnight 303 for nine, lost its last wicket on the first ball of the third day's play.

Ireland need 182 to win their one-off Test against England at Lord's on Friday as England, after resuming on their overnight 303 for nine, lost its last wicket on the first ball of the third day's play. England's second innings ended when debutant Olly Stone was bowled for a duck by a Stuart Thompson inswinger that knocked over his leg stump. Ireland now have two days in which to get the runs they require, with the match scheduled for four days rather than the standard five. On day one, Ireland produced a stunning performance as they bowled England out for just 85 in the first innings and in reply to that, Ireland made 207. In their second innings, England suffered another worrying batting collapse but scored a fighting 303, thanks to nightwatchman Jack Leach's 92 and Test debutant Jason Roy's 72. At the time of filing this update, Ireland's second innings was stopped due to rain after just seven balls being bowled. What a start to the day! Stuart Thompson bowls Olly Stone with the first ball of day three and England are bowled out. Ireland will need 182 to secure their first ever victory in Test cricket. #ENGvIRE pic.twitter.com/Whww6PbEhm — ICC (@ICC) July 26, 2019 × This is only Ireland's third Test match and victory at Lord's would give them their first win in the format following defeats by Pakistan and Afghanistan.

Ireland set 182 to win England Test at Lord's

Test cricket is all set to undergo a major change as Australia and England will lineup with names and jersey numbers on their Test whites in the upcoming Ashes series.

ODI and T20I jerseys have had personalisation on their backs since a long time, but Test matches had to wait for this change.

England Cricket official Twitter handle confirmed the jersey number of team's Test match skipper Joe Root and wrote "Names and numbers on the back of Test shirts," as the caption.

Earlier this year, there were reports that Ashes series between England and Australia would bring in the modernisation of cricketing kits.

Cricketing fans on Twitter seemed divided on this development in Test cricket and made their voices heard on the social-networking platform.

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Names and numbers on the back of Test shirts! 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿🏏 <a href="https://t.co/M660T2EI4Z">pic.twitter.com/M660T2EI4Z</a>
— England Cricket (@englandcricket) <a href="https://twitter.com/englandcricket/status/1153366494505574400?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 22, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"Absolutely no problem with numbers 1 to 11 etc but can`t see the benefit of names or random high numbers on shirts. I guess it`s all to do with increasing merchandise sales hoping a name will sell more. @YorkshireCCC," wrote one fan.

"Names r okay bt never got the idea about these random numbers in cricket...could still live with it in ODIs n T20s bt spare tests...names r fine bt w/o numbers @ICC," another fan tweeted.

"I like it! After all anything that makes the game easier to follow is good - think about people with visual impairments for example," one Twitter user wrote."A good addition.

Improves both the supporter and media experience of seeing who it is. The game moves on. It's fine. The world won`t fall off its axis," another Twitter user wrote.

On July 14, England scripted history as they managed to win their maiden 50-over World Cup and the side will look to continue their winning momentum going.

England will take on Ireland in a one-off four-day Test from July 24 and then the team will face Australia in the Ashes, beginning August 1.&nbsp;

Test cricket is all set to undergo a major change as Australia and England will lineup with names and jersey numbers on their Test whites in the upcoming Ashes series.

Test cricket is all set to undergo a major change as Australia and England will lineup with names and jersey numbers on their Test whites in the upcoming Ashes series. ODI and T20I jerseys have had personalisation on their backs since a long time, but Test matches had to wait for this change. England Cricket official Twitter handle confirmed the jersey number of team's Test match skipper Joe Root and wrote "Names and numbers on the back of Test shirts," as the caption. Earlier this year, there were reports that Ashes series between England and Australia would bring in the modernisation of cricketing kits. Cricketing fans on Twitter seemed divided on this development in Test cricket and made their voices heard on the social-networking platform. Names and numbers on the back of Test shirts! 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿🏏 pic.twitter.com/M660T2EI4Z — England Cricket (@englandcricket) July 22, 2019 × "Absolutely no problem with numbers 1 to 11 etc but can`t see the benefit of names or random high numbers on shirts. I guess it`s all to do with increasing merchandise sales hoping a name will sell more. @YorkshireCCC," wrote one fan. "Names r okay bt never got the idea about these random numbers in cricket...could still live with it in ODIs n T20s bt spare tests...names r fine bt w/o numbers @ICC," another fan tweeted. "I like it! After all anything that makes the game easier to follow is good - think about people with visual impairments for example," one Twitter user wrote."A good addition. Improves both the supporter and media experience of seeing who it is. The game moves on. It's fine. The world won`t fall off its axis," another Twitter user wrote. On July 14, England scripted history as they managed to win their maiden 50-over World Cup and the side will look to continue their winning momentum going. England will take on Ireland in a one-off four-day Test from July 24 and then the team will face Australia in the Ashes, beginning August 1.

In a first in Test cricket, Ashes jerseys to have players' names, numbers

Australia retained the women's Ashes after the only Test match in the series played across multiple formats ended in a draw at Taunton on Sunday.

After Australia had declared their first innings on 420-8, England avoided the follow-on and asked Australia to bat again, declaring at 275-9.

However, the visitors elected not to set a victory target and had reached 230-7 at the end of play.

Elysse Perry was again the pick of the Australian batters, following up her first innings 116 with an unbeaten 76 in the second.

The result means Ashes holders Australia, who lead England 8-2 on points having won all three of the One-Day Internationals, will retain the trophy.

England can only level the series if they win the three remaining Twenty20 international games, starting on Friday.

"It's certainly a good position to be in. We had a hard four-day battle and it was a good challenge. Unfortunately, we couldn't get a result here, but it was a great Test," Australia skipper Meg Lanning said.

"It's been a lot closer than the scoreboard suggests, and we're really looking forward to the T20s."

A points system to determine the winner of a series has been used in women's cricket since the 2013 Ashes. Teams are awarded two points for victory in limited-overs games and six in Tests.

Drawn limited-overs games result in one point being awarded to both teams and two each if a Test ends in a stalemate.

Australia retained the women's Ashes after the only Test match in the series played across multiple formats ended in a draw at Taunton on Sunday. After Australia had declared their first innings on 420-8, England avoided the follow-on and asked Australia to bat again, declaring at 275-9.

Australia retained the women's Ashes after the only Test match in the series played across multiple formats ended in a draw at Taunton on Sunday. After Australia had declared their first innings on 420-8, England avoided the follow-on and asked Australia to bat again, declaring at 275-9. However, the visitors elected not to set a victory target and had reached 230-7 at the end of play. Elysse Perry was again the pick of the Australian batters, following up her first innings 116 with an unbeaten 76 in the second. The result means Ashes holders Australia, who lead England 8-2 on points having won all three of the One-Day Internationals, will retain the trophy. England can only level the series if they win the three remaining Twenty20 international games, starting on Friday. "It's certainly a good position to be in. We had a hard four-day battle and it was a good challenge. Unfortunately, we couldn't get a result here, but it was a great Test," Australia skipper Meg Lanning said. "It's been a lot closer than the scoreboard suggests, and we're really looking forward to the T20s." A points system to determine the winner of a series has been used in women's cricket since the 2013 Ashes. Teams are awarded two points for victory in limited-overs games and six in Tests. Drawn limited-overs games result in one point being awarded to both teams and two each if a Test ends in a stalemate.

Australia retain women's Ashes after draw in only Test

Sixteen months after leaving Test cricket in disgrace over the ball-tampering furore, Steve Smith's preparations for the Ashes have gone up to a manic level as the former skipper looks to return to red ball cricket in top form.

Australia captain Tim Paine said former skipper Smith had given batting coach Graeme Hick long and taxing work-outs in the nets as he looks to hone his formidable game ahead of the Ashes opener in Edgbaston on August&nbsp;1.

Renowned for his obsessive approach to training, Smith is back in the Test squad along with David Warner and Cameron Bancroft, the other two players hit with long bans for their involvement in the Cape Town scandal in March, 2018.

"You don't become one of the best players in the world and average 60 in Test cricket if you don't have some sort of a mission," Paine told reporters of Smith at the team's training base in Southampton.

"The boys have been having a bit of a laugh the last couple of days because nothing's changed - he's hit a million balls and our coach's arm is falling off already on day two of the trip.

"It's great to see that him, and David (Warner) and Cameron Bancroft have come back in and fitted perfectly in our group.

"They are guys who have always trained at exceptionally high standards and set the standard for others.

"The three of them have been outstanding since they've been back and involved."

Australia are bidding to retain the urn and erase the disappointment of their one-day World Cup campaign, which ended in the semi-finals at the hands of hosts and eventual champions England.

Australia will play a four-day intra-squad match starting on Tuesday, with two sides padded out by Australia A players.

With the final Ashes squad to be named after, Paine said it would be no gentle hit in the park.

"Both sides will be looking to win and both sides will have individual players wanting to do really well to press their final case for Ashes selection," he said.

"At the moment it's a fair dinkum game of cricket and that's been made really clear.

"We're looking at it as a real opportunity to test each other's skills so when we get to the first Test we know exactly where we're at and everyone's had a perfect preparation, and everyone's been put on pressure."

Top order batsman Usman Khawaja, who suffered a hamstring strain during the World Cup semi-final, is being rested for the unofficial match but Paine said he was expected to be fully fit and available for selection for Edgbaston.

"I don't think he's in serious doubt (for the Test)," Paine said. "He's in a rehab stage so the decision has been made that he won't play at this stage.

"There is a possibility, maybe, if something were to happen to someone else he might be right for the back end of the (practice) game."

Sixteen months after leaving Test cricket in disgrace over the ball-tampering furore, Steve Smith's preparations for the Ashes have gone up to a manic level as the former skipper looks to return to red ball cricket in top form.

Sixteen months after leaving Test cricket in disgrace over the ball-tampering furore, Steve Smith's preparations for the Ashes have gone up to a manic level as the former skipper looks to return to red ball cricket in top form. Australia captain Tim Paine said former skipper Smith had given batting coach Graeme Hick long and taxing work-outs in the nets as he looks to hone his formidable game ahead of the Ashes opener in Edgbaston on August 1. Renowned for his obsessive approach to training, Smith is back in the Test squad along with David Warner and Cameron Bancroft, the other two players hit with long bans for their involvement in the Cape Town scandal in March, 2018. "You don't become one of the best players in the world and average 60 in Test cricket if you don't have some sort of a mission," Paine told reporters of Smith at the team's training base in Southampton. "The boys have been having a bit of a laugh the last couple of days because nothing's changed - he's hit a million balls and our coach's arm is falling off already on day two of the trip. "It's great to see that him, and David (Warner) and Cameron Bancroft have come back in and fitted perfectly in our group. "They are guys who have always trained at exceptionally high standards and set the standard for others. "The three of them have been outstanding since they've been back and involved." Australia are bidding to retain the urn and erase the disappointment of their one-day World Cup campaign, which ended in the semi-finals at the hands of hosts and eventual champions England. Australia will play a four-day intra-squad match starting on Tuesday, with two sides padded out by Australia A players. With the final Ashes squad to be named after, Paine said it would be no gentle hit in the park. "Both sides will be looking to win and both sides will have individual players wanting to do really well to press their final case for Ashes selection," he said. "At the moment it's a fair dinkum game of cricket and that's been made really clear. "We're looking at it as a real opportunity to test each other's skills so when we get to the first Test we know exactly where we're at and everyone's had a perfect preparation, and everyone's been put on pressure." Top order batsman Usman Khawaja, who suffered a hamstring strain during the World Cup semi-final, is being rested for the unofficial match but Paine said he was expected to be fully fit and available for selection for Edgbaston. "I don't think he's in serious doubt (for the Test)," Paine said. "He's in a rehab stage so the decision has been made that he won't play at this stage. "There is a possibility, maybe, if something were to happen to someone else he might be right for the back end of the (practice) game."

Steve Smith raring to go, Usman Khawaja expected to be fit for Ashes opener

Spinner Rashid Khan claimed five wickets to put Afghanistan in sight of their maiden Test victory after bowling out Ireland for 288 on day three of the one-off game on Sunday.&nbsp;

Chasing 147 to win, Afghanistan were 29 for one at stumps. Ihsanullah Janat, on 16, and Rahmat Shah, on 11, were batting at the close of play in Dehradun.&nbsp;

Spinner Andy McBrine had opener Mohammad Shahzad caught behind for two before Janat and Shah, who made 98 in Afghanistan's first innings total of 314, played out the last few overs of the day.&nbsp;

Ireland batsmen Andy Balbirnie and Kevin O'Brien had earlier hit half-centuries before Khan returned career-best figures of 5-82 to bowl out Ireland in the final session of play.&nbsp;

"Feeling happy to get some wickets for the team when the team needed me," Khan, who has taken seven wickets in the match, told reporters.&nbsp;

"It was tough to grip the new ball because I had a finger injury and tough for me to pitch it on the right length as was paining a lot," he said, referring to the injured middle finger of his bowling arm.&nbsp;

Balbirnie made 82 and O'Brien 56 before a 10th-wicket 58-run partnership between James Cameron-Dow and Tim Murtagh set up a potentially tricky chase for the Afghans.&nbsp;

Cameron-Dow was left unbeaten on 32 after number 11 Murtagh, who hit 54 not out in Ireland's first innings score of 172, was the last man out on 27.&nbsp;

"I am not surprised, if you have seen Test cricket even tailenders have records," said Khan.&nbsp;

"Plan was to bowl as many good deliveries as possible. But they chose the right deliveries to score and that's how they made runs."&nbsp;

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An impressive last-wicket stand of 58 has taken Ireland to 288 – Afghanistan will need to chase 147 to get their first win in Test cricket. 
 
Rashid Khan is the leading man for Afghanistan, finishing with figures of 5/82. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AFGvIRE?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AFGvIRE</a> LIVE ⬇️ <a href="https://t.co/mV1o12EBt1">https://t.co/mV1o12EBt1</a> <a href="https://t.co/H0B8rhGIDW">pic.twitter.com/H0B8rhGIDW</a>
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'Ebbed and flowed'

Earlier Balbirnie put on 104 runs for the third wicket with James McCollum, who made 39, to frustrate the Afghanistan bowlers in the first session.&nbsp;

An umpiring howler cost Ireland their first wicket of the day with Paul Stirling adjudged lbw off paceman Yamin Ahmadzai for 14 after the opener got a thick edge onto his pad.&nbsp;

Balbirnie, who resumed the day on 14, stood firm to register his maiden Test half-century with a boundary off Mohammad Nabi.&nbsp;

Ireland took lunch at 124-2 but a batting collapse in the second session saw them slip to 157-6, with Khan and Salamkheil sharing the spoils.&nbsp;

Balbirnie was caught behind off Salamkheil after his 149-ball stay at the wicket, and Khan trapped McCollum lbw in the very next over as Afghanistan regained control.&nbsp;

"It ebbed and flowed. We had a good first session and we could have batted for a good part of the day and build a substantial lead," said Balbirnie.&nbsp;

"So from my point of view it was really frustrating because I was a set batsman and it was a lapse of concentration (my dismissal). But the 10th wicket partnership gives us a fight."&nbsp;

O'Brien, who took Ireland past their 142-run deficit and into a lead, then put on 63 runs with George Dockrell, who made 25, to take the attack to the opposition bowlers.

But Khan got the two dangermen back in the pavilion after tea to get into the Ireland tail that once again wagged.

The left-handed batting duo of Cameron-Dow and Murtagh put on another defiant stand for Ireland, who had posted an 87-run last-wicket partnership in their first innings.

Both sides are playing their second Test after making their debuts in the five-day format last year.

Afghanistan lost to India inside two days in Bangalore while Ireland went down to Pakistan in Dublin.

Spinner Rashid Khan claimed five wickets to put Afghanistan in sight of their maiden Test victory after bowling out Ireland for 288 on day three of the one-off game on Sunday.

Spinner Rashid Khan claimed five wickets to put Afghanistan in sight of their maiden Test victory after bowling out Ireland for 288 on day three of the one-off game on Sunday. Chasing 147 to win, Afghanistan were 29 for one at stumps. Ihsanullah Janat, on 16, and Rahmat Shah, on 11, were batting at the close of play in Dehradun. Spinner Andy McBrine had opener Mohammad Shahzad caught behind for two before Janat and Shah, who made 98 in Afghanistan's first innings total of 314, played out the last few overs of the day. Ireland batsmen Andy Balbirnie and Kevin O'Brien had earlier hit half-centuries before Khan returned career-best figures of 5-82 to bowl out Ireland in the final session of play. "Feeling happy to get some wickets for the team when the team needed me," Khan, who has taken seven wickets in the match, told reporters. "It was tough to grip the new ball because I had a finger injury and tough for me to pitch it on the right length as was paining a lot," he said, referring to the injured middle finger of his bowling arm. Balbirnie made 82 and O'Brien 56 before a 10th-wicket 58-run partnership between James Cameron-Dow and Tim Murtagh set up a potentially tricky chase for the Afghans. Cameron-Dow was left unbeaten on 32 after number 11 Murtagh, who hit 54 not out in Ireland's first innings score of 172, was the last man out on 27. "I am not surprised, if you have seen Test cricket even tailenders have records," said Khan. "Plan was to bowl as many good deliveries as possible. But they chose the right deliveries to score and that's how they made runs." An impressive last-wicket stand of 58 has taken Ireland to 288 – Afghanistan will need to chase 147 to get their first win in Test cricket. Rashid Khan is the leading man for Afghanistan, finishing with figures of 5/82. #AFGvIRE LIVE ⬇️ https://t.co/mV1o12EBt1 pic.twitter.com/H0B8rhGIDW — ICC (@ICC) March 17, 2019 × 'Ebbed and flowed' Earlier Balbirnie put on 104 runs for the third wicket with James McCollum, who made 39, to frustrate the Afghanistan bowlers in the first session. An umpiring howler cost Ireland their first wicket of the day with Paul Stirling adjudged lbw off paceman Yamin Ahmadzai for 14 after the opener got a thick edge onto his pad. Balbirnie, who resumed the day on 14, stood firm to register his maiden Test half-century with a boundary off Mohammad Nabi. Ireland took lunch at 124-2 but a batting collapse in the second session saw them slip to 157-6, with Khan and Salamkheil sharing the spoils. Balbirnie was caught behind off Salamkheil after his 149-ball stay at the wicket, and Khan trapped McCollum lbw in the very next over as Afghanistan regained control. "It ebbed and flowed. We had a good first session and we could have batted for a good part of the day and build a substantial lead," said Balbirnie. "So from my point of view it was really frustrating because I was a set batsman and it was a lapse of concentration (my dismissal). But the 10th wicket partnership gives us a fight." O'Brien, who took Ireland past their 142-run deficit and into a lead, then put on 63 runs with George Dockrell, who made 25, to take the attack to the opposition bowlers. But Khan got the two dangermen back in the pavilion after tea to get into the Ireland tail that once again wagged. The left-handed batting duo of Cameron-Dow and Murtagh put on another defiant stand for Ireland, who had posted an 87-run last-wicket partnership in their first innings. Both sides are playing their second Test after making their debuts in the five-day format last year. Afghanistan lost to India inside two days in Bangalore while Ireland went down to Pakistan in Dublin.

Rashid Khan takes five, Afghanistan set 147 to win maiden Test

The International Cricket Council (ICC) chief David Richardson offered condolences to the victims and their families of Christchurch mosque shooting.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/49-killed-in-christchurch-mosque-attack-one-person-charged-new-zealand-police-203495">At least 49 people died</a> in attacks on two mosques during Friday prayers in what appeared to be the worst assault on Muslims in a Western country.&nbsp;

"Our thoughts and sincere condolences go out to families and friends of those affected by this horrendous incident in Christchurch," said Richardson.&nbsp;

"Both teams, staff and match officials are safe and ICC fully supports the decision to cancel the Test match," he added.&nbsp;

The third cricket Test between New Zealand and Bangladesh has been cancelled in the wake of a shooting.&nbsp;

The visiting team narrowly avoided the shooting after arriving at the mosque for prayers.&nbsp;

New Zealand Cricket said they had decided to cancel the Test, which was scheduled to start at Hagley Oval on Saturday, after discussions with the Bangladesh Cricket Board.&nbsp;

New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Arden said the attack was an "unprecedented act of violence" and "one of New Zealand's darkest days".&nbsp;

"This is significant and I can tell you now this is and will be one of New Zealand's darkest days. I would describe it as an unprecedented act of violence, an act that has absolutely no place in New Zealand. This is not who we are," she said.&nbsp;

The International Cricket Council (ICC) chief David Richardson offered condolences to the victims and their families of Christchurch mosque shooting. At least 49 people died in attacks on two mosques during Friday prayers in what appeared to be the worst assault on Muslims in a Western country.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) chief David Richardson offered condolences to the victims and their families of Christchurch mosque shooting. At least 49 people died in attacks on two mosques during Friday prayers in what appeared to be the worst assault on Muslims in a Western country. "Our thoughts and sincere condolences go out to families and friends of those affected by this horrendous incident in Christchurch," said Richardson. "Both teams, staff and match officials are safe and ICC fully supports the decision to cancel the Test match," he added. The third cricket Test between New Zealand and Bangladesh has been cancelled in the wake of a shooting. The visiting team narrowly avoided the shooting after arriving at the mosque for prayers. New Zealand Cricket said they had decided to cancel the Test, which was scheduled to start at Hagley Oval on Saturday, after discussions with the Bangladesh Cricket Board. New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Arden said the attack was an "unprecedented act of violence" and "one of New Zealand's darkest days". "This is significant and I can tell you now this is and will be one of New Zealand's darkest days. I would describe it as an unprecedented act of violence, an act that has absolutely no place in New Zealand. This is not who we are," she said.

ICC supports decision to cancel Test match between New Zealand and Bangladesh after Christchurch mosque attack

An overwhelming 86 per cent of fans prefer watching Tests compared to limited-overs cricket, announced the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) Saturday, shattering fears that the longest format of the game is dying.

The MCC conducted a survey titled the 'MCC Test Cricket survey', where over 13,000 fans participated across 100 countries.

The survey found that an average of 86 per cent of the participants said five-day cricket remained their "preferred" format followed by One-day internationals, Twenty20 Internationals and domestic T20s.

"Overwhelmingly, Test cricket came out as the format that interests fans the most, regardless of country supported or age," the MCC said in a release.

"Responders to the MCC Test cricket survey still consider the Test format to be the pinnacle of cricket and the favourite format of cricket to attend, follow and watch, with respondents describing the game as the "ultimate" form of cricket."

Among other key findings, the MCC said over half of the respondents wanted to watch Test cricket regularly but would want some improvements such as addressing the cost and availability of tickets, increasing access to Test cricket on free-to-air TV and including half-day tickets to encourage families to attend.

Last year, the ICC had conducted another survey, which said that cricket had more than a billion fans globally, and close to 70 per cent (of 19,000 participants) supported Test cricket.

The MCC World Cricket committee includes legends such as Sourav Ganguly, Brendon McCullum, Ricky Ponting, Kumar Sangakkara and newest entrant, Shane Warne.

Last month, ICC chairman Shashank Manohar had said that people these days don't have five day's time to watch Test cricket and conceded that the longest format of the game is dying.

ICC's outgoing chief executive Dave Richardson, who is also a member of the committee, later stressed that Test cricket was not dying, but merely striving for relevance.

In a bid to give further boost to Test cricket, ICC will hold a World Test Championship, a league competition slated to start in July.&nbsp;

An overwhelming 86 per cent of fans prefer watching Tests compared to limited-overs cricket, announced the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) Saturday, shattering fears that the longest format of the game is dying.

An overwhelming 86 per cent of fans prefer watching Tests compared to limited-overs cricket, announced the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) Saturday, shattering fears that the longest format of the game is dying. The MCC conducted a survey titled the 'MCC Test Cricket survey', where over 13,000 fans participated across 100 countries. The survey found that an average of 86 per cent of the participants said five-day cricket remained their "preferred" format followed by One-day internationals, Twenty20 Internationals and domestic T20s. "Overwhelmingly, Test cricket came out as the format that interests fans the most, regardless of country supported or age," the MCC said in a release. "Responders to the MCC Test cricket survey still consider the Test format to be the pinnacle of cricket and the favourite format of cricket to attend, follow and watch, with respondents describing the game as the "ultimate" form of cricket." Among other key findings, the MCC said over half of the respondents wanted to watch Test cricket regularly but would want some improvements such as addressing the cost and availability of tickets, increasing access to Test cricket on free-to-air TV and including half-day tickets to encourage families to attend. Last year, the ICC had conducted another survey, which said that cricket had more than a billion fans globally, and close to 70 per cent (of 19,000 participants) supported Test cricket. The MCC World Cricket committee includes legends such as Sourav Ganguly, Brendon McCullum, Ricky Ponting, Kumar Sangakkara and newest entrant, Shane Warne. Last month, ICC chairman Shashank Manohar had said that people these days don't have five day's time to watch Test cricket and conceded that the longest format of the game is dying. ICC's outgoing chief executive Dave Richardson, who is also a member of the committee, later stressed that Test cricket was not dying, but merely striving for relevance. In a bid to give further boost to Test cricket, ICC will hold a World Test Championship, a league competition slated to start in July.

86 % of fans prefer watching Tests compared to limited-overs cricket: MCC

New Zealand's first innings record 715 for six, including a double century from skipper Kane Williamson, put them in total control of the first Test against Bangladesh after three days on Saturday.

The hosts breached the 700 barrier for the first time on their way to building a 481 run lead and were six wickets away from the win by stumps.

Bangladesh were 174 for four in the second innings, still 307 behind and with their last two recognised batsmen at the crease.

"Obviously that was historic," batting coach Craig McMillan said after play finished for the day.

"The contributions throughout the innings make it a very special one," he added, describing Williamson's unbeaten 200 as "sublime".

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Williamson declared the innings when he reached the 200 milestone for the second time in his career.

On an explosive day of batting, with a total of 438 runs scored, Tamim Iqbal gave Bangladesh a flying start to their reply as they raced to 88 without loss.&nbsp;

But once Neil Wagner's relentless barrage of bouncers captured the wicket of Shadman Iqbal for 37, the visitors soon stood at 126 for four.

Mominul Haque and Mohammad Mithun barely registered and Tamim was caught behind for 76.

The opener ducked under a Tim Southee bouncer but left his bat held high with the ball ricocheting off the periscope and into the gloves of BJ Watling.

Soumya Sarkar on 39 with Mahmudullah on 15 held the innings together for 13 overs through to stumps.

New Zealand skipper Williamson resumed the day on 93 and calmly worked his way to his 20th century -- the most ever by a New Zealander -- and passed 6,000 Test runs faster and with a better average than any of his countrymen.

At the other end, Neil Wagner and Colin de Grandhomme pounded the bowling as New Zealand piled on 264 runs from 45 overs and went 25 runs past their previous record of 690 against Pakistan in 2014.

Mehidy Hasan bagged two wickets but bore the brunt of the assault, finishing with his side's most expensive Test figures ever of two for 246 from 49 overs.&nbsp;

Pre-lunch, Williamson was content to take a backseat as nightwatchman Wagner blazed away for 47 runs -- 42 from boundaries -- in their 60-run stand.

It was Ebadat Hossain, on debut, who made the breakthrough with his first Test wicket to deny Wagner his maiden fifty when he shaved the edge of the bat, with wicketkeeper Liton Das completing the dismissal.&nbsp;

Domination

Big-hitting Colin de Grandhomme took New Zealand past their previous record score of 690 with a huge six, one of five in his whirlwind innings of 76 not out.

The foundations for New Zealand's domination were laid by openers Tom Latham and Jeet Raval with their 254-run partnership after Bangladesh were rolled in their first innings for 234.

Williamson's 100 was only the 13th time in cricket history that the first three batsmen had reached three figures.

New Zealand's first innings record 715 for six, including a double century from skipper Kane Williamson, put them in total control of the first Test against Bangladesh after three days on Saturday.

New Zealand's first innings record 715 for six, including a double century from skipper Kane Williamson, put them in total control of the first Test against Bangladesh after three days on Saturday. The hosts breached the 700 barrier for the first time on their way to building a 481 run lead and were six wickets away from the win by stumps. Bangladesh were 174 for four in the second innings, still 307 behind and with their last two recognised batsmen at the crease. "Obviously that was historic," batting coach Craig McMillan said after play finished for the day. "The contributions throughout the innings make it a very special one," he added, describing Williamson's unbeaten 200 as "sublime". Williamson, Wagner and de Grandhomme lit up Hamilton as New Zealand put themselves in a strong position for victory in the first Test. #NZvBAN DAY 3 REPORT 👇https://t.co/ah1AZ9urQ8 pic.twitter.com/YWXZPIDndJ — ICC (@ICC) March 2, 2019 × Williamson declared the innings when he reached the 200 milestone for the second time in his career. On an explosive day of batting, with a total of 438 runs scored, Tamim Iqbal gave Bangladesh a flying start to their reply as they raced to 88 without loss. But once Neil Wagner's relentless barrage of bouncers captured the wicket of Shadman Iqbal for 37, the visitors soon stood at 126 for four. Mominul Haque and Mohammad Mithun barely registered and Tamim was caught behind for 76. The opener ducked under a Tim Southee bouncer but left his bat held high with the ball ricocheting off the periscope and into the gloves of BJ Watling. Soumya Sarkar on 39 with Mahmudullah on 15 held the innings together for 13 overs through to stumps. New Zealand skipper Williamson resumed the day on 93 and calmly worked his way to his 20th century -- the most ever by a New Zealander -- and passed 6,000 Test runs faster and with a better average than any of his countrymen. At the other end, Neil Wagner and Colin de Grandhomme pounded the bowling as New Zealand piled on 264 runs from 45 overs and went 25 runs past their previous record of 690 against Pakistan in 2014. Mehidy Hasan bagged two wickets but bore the brunt of the assault, finishing with his side's most expensive Test figures ever of two for 246 from 49 overs. Pre-lunch, Williamson was content to take a backseat as nightwatchman Wagner blazed away for 47 runs -- 42 from boundaries -- in their 60-run stand. It was Ebadat Hossain, on debut, who made the breakthrough with his first Test wicket to deny Wagner his maiden fifty when he shaved the edge of the bat, with wicketkeeper Liton Das completing the dismissal. Domination Big-hitting Colin de Grandhomme took New Zealand past their previous record score of 690 with a huge six, one of five in his whirlwind innings of 76 not out. The foundations for New Zealand's domination were laid by openers Tom Latham and Jeet Raval with their 254-run partnership after Bangladesh were rolled in their first innings for 234. Williamson's 100 was only the 13th time in cricket history that the first three batsmen had reached three figures.

NZvsBAN: Williamson's double century helps New Zealand to post record 715-6 against Bangladesh

South Africa captain Faf du Plessis was at a loss to explain his side's surprise 2-0 home Test series loss to Sri Lanka, an unexpected setback for a team hoping to topple India as the number one side in the world.

Sri Lanka became the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/sri-lanka-defy-the-odds-to-claim-historic-test-series-win-199197">first Asian team to win a Test series in South Africa</a> and ended the Proteas' run of seven home series wins in a row, after an epic one-wicket win in Durban and a convincing eight-wicket success in Port Elizabeth on Saturday.

"It's probably up there with the most disappointed I have been, certainly from a personal perspective but also for the team," Du Plessis told reporters.

"You don't want to be losing series at home, and obviously we didn't play our best cricket. It's a massive dent, I thought up until this Test series we were looking good. But credit to the team that played the best cricket.

"We were playing well, we were playing positive, aggressive Test cricket. But these last two Tests we were not on it as a team. I wish I can give you an explanation as to why."

South Africa's batting has been a concern for some time and failed again in the series, with a top score of 259 in their four innings.

The batting troubles have often been masked by a much-vaunted bowling line-up that has rescued the team on a number of occasions in Tests.

South Africa have passed 300 eight times in their last 28 innings, which includes being bowled out for 73 by Sri Lanka in Galle last July.

Their cause has not been helped by the seamer-friendly wickets that the team asks for on home soil, though Du Plessis refused to blame the Port Elizabeth pitch for their latest loss.

"There is no finger to be pointed at the wicket. Obviously, they (Sri Lanka) bowled well, but the biggest disappointment is the batting," the captain said.

"We have got some really good batters in there, but probably 99 per cent of the dismissals were soft judgement errors.

"When I was batting it felt like a really good wicket. In the first innings, there was a little bit of nip now and then, but it was a good batting surface."

World Cup

The makeup of the South African one-day international side is different from the Test team, but Du Plessis said they don't want the disappointment of the series loss to hinder the 50-over team just months out from the World Cup in England.

"There is a big five months coming up, so for us it's making sure that you never take your preparation for granted," he said.

"If you see the guys starting to slack a bit in terms of that then you address it as soon as possible because that is the one area you can control.

"The guys should be very motivated for what is coming up, it is one series and then the World Cup."

South Africa and Sri Lanka will next contest a five-match ODI series that starts on March 3.

South Africa captain Faf du Plessis was at a loss to explain his side's surprise 2-0 home Test series loss to Sri Lanka, an unexpected setback for a team hoping to topple India as the number one side in the world.

South Africa captain Faf du Plessis was at a loss to explain his side's surprise 2-0 home Test series loss to Sri Lanka, an unexpected setback for a team hoping to topple India as the number one side in the world. Sri Lanka became the first Asian team to win a Test series in South Africa and ended the Proteas' run of seven home series wins in a row, after an epic one-wicket win in Durban and a convincing eight-wicket success in Port Elizabeth on Saturday. "It's probably up there with the most disappointed I have been, certainly from a personal perspective but also for the team," Du Plessis told reporters. "You don't want to be losing series at home, and obviously we didn't play our best cricket. It's a massive dent, I thought up until this Test series we were looking good. But credit to the team that played the best cricket. "We were playing well, we were playing positive, aggressive Test cricket. But these last two Tests we were not on it as a team. I wish I can give you an explanation as to why." South Africa's batting has been a concern for some time and failed again in the series, with a top score of 259 in their four innings. The batting troubles have often been masked by a much-vaunted bowling line-up that has rescued the team on a number of occasions in Tests. South Africa have passed 300 eight times in their last 28 innings, which includes being bowled out for 73 by Sri Lanka in Galle last July. Their cause has not been helped by the seamer-friendly wickets that the team asks for on home soil, though Du Plessis refused to blame the Port Elizabeth pitch for their latest loss. "There is no finger to be pointed at the wicket. Obviously, they (Sri Lanka) bowled well, but the biggest disappointment is the batting," the captain said. "We have got some really good batters in there, but probably 99 per cent of the dismissals were soft judgement errors. "When I was batting it felt like a really good wicket. In the first innings, there was a little bit of nip now and then, but it was a good batting surface." World Cup The makeup of the South African one-day international side is different from the Test team, but Du Plessis said they don't want the disappointment of the series loss to hinder the 50-over team just months out from the World Cup in England. "There is a big five months coming up, so for us it's making sure that you never take your preparation for granted," he said. "If you see the guys starting to slack a bit in terms of that then you address it as soon as possible because that is the one area you can control. "The guys should be very motivated for what is coming up, it is one series and then the World Cup." South Africa and Sri Lanka will next contest a five-match ODI series that starts on March 3.

South Africa captain Faf du Plessis bemused by team's loss to Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka's historic 2-0 Test series victory over South Africa had seemed somewhat fanciful when they arrived in some disarray and on a long losing streak, but leave as the first Asian side to win a series in the country.

South Africa had whitewashed Pakistan 3-0 at the start of the year and were on a run of seven home Test series wins in a row, dating back to 2016.

Sri Lanka, meanwhile, had been whitewashed 3-0 at home by England at the end of 2018 and then axed captain Dinesh Chandimal after losing successive away series in New Zealand and Australia - during which they lost three out of the four Tests contested.

In South Africa, they were missing injured talisman Angelo Mathews and had coach Chandika Hathurusingha reportedly at odds with his own board after being removed as an on-tour selector.

Hence it was little wonder that a buoyant and confident South Africa were odds on to secure a comfortable win.

But after Sri Lanka were able to blast their way to a one-wicket victory in the first Test in Durban thanks to a remarkable unbeaten 153 from Kusal Perera in the second innings, they looked the more confident and assured team in the second match, cruising to an eight-wicket win on Saturday.

Dimuth Karunaratne, captaining the team in the series, said the disappointing tours in Australia and New Zealand had laid the platform for their success in South Africa.

"Those two tours were really tough and we learnt a lot of things," Karunaratne said. "After that I think the players wanted to do something better for the team and for themselves as well.

"They realised quickly what to do and what not to do (in South Africa), stuck to the basics and started to enjoy their game.

"I want to tell the younger players especially that they did really well. They all put their hands up at different times and did a really good job for me."

BATTING WOES

Sri Lanka won the series despite first innings scores of 191 and 154 in the two Test matches, after which the South African batsmen could not capitalise on good batting wickets.

"The only concern for me is first innings batting, so we have to make sure that we do better," Karunaratne admitted. "All the time we were behind the game but we came back hard. The bowlers did a great job to keep us in the game."

Karunaratne admitted the enormity of their achievement was just setting in.

"It’s a great feeling for me and the team. It’s not easy when you come to South Africa, so to win the series 2-0 is brilliant.

"It’s been a lot of hard work, but the guys did really well and enjoyed it a lot, which is why I think we created history."

Sri Lanka stay in South Africa for five One-Day Internationals and three Twenty20 matches, starting on March 3.

Sri Lanka's historic 2-0 Test series victory over South Africa had seemed somewhat fanciful when they arrived in some disarray and on a long losing streak, but leave as the first Asian side to win a series in the country.

Sri Lanka's historic 2-0 Test series victory over South Africa had seemed somewhat fanciful when they arrived in some disarray and on a long losing streak, but leave as the first Asian side to win a series in the country. South Africa had whitewashed Pakistan 3-0 at the start of the year and were on a run of seven home Test series wins in a row, dating back to 2016. Sri Lanka, meanwhile, had been whitewashed 3-0 at home by England at the end of 2018 and then axed captain Dinesh Chandimal after losing successive away series in New Zealand and Australia - during which they lost three out of the four Tests contested. In South Africa, they were missing injured talisman Angelo Mathews and had coach Chandika Hathurusingha reportedly at odds with his own board after being removed as an on-tour selector. Hence it was little wonder that a buoyant and confident South Africa were odds on to secure a comfortable win. But after Sri Lanka were able to blast their way to a one-wicket victory in the first Test in Durban thanks to a remarkable unbeaten 153 from Kusal Perera in the second innings, they looked the more confident and assured team in the second match, cruising to an eight-wicket win on Saturday. Dimuth Karunaratne, captaining the team in the series, said the disappointing tours in Australia and New Zealand had laid the platform for their success in South Africa. "Those two tours were really tough and we learnt a lot of things," Karunaratne said. "After that I think the players wanted to do something better for the team and for themselves as well. "They realised quickly what to do and what not to do (in South Africa), stuck to the basics and started to enjoy their game. "I want to tell the younger players especially that they did really well. They all put their hands up at different times and did a really good job for me." BATTING WOES Sri Lanka won the series despite first innings scores of 191 and 154 in the two Test matches, after which the South African batsmen could not capitalise on good batting wickets. "The only concern for me is first innings batting, so we have to make sure that we do better," Karunaratne admitted. "All the time we were behind the game but we came back hard. The bowlers did a great job to keep us in the game." Karunaratne admitted the enormity of their achievement was just setting in. "It’s a great feeling for me and the team. It’s not easy when you come to South Africa, so to win the series 2-0 is brilliant. "It’s been a lot of hard work, but the guys did really well and enjoyed it a lot, which is why I think we created history." Sri Lanka stay in South Africa for five One-Day Internationals and three Twenty20 matches, starting on March 3.

Sri Lanka defy the odds to claim historic Test series win

Kusal Perera carried Sri Lanka to a sensational one-wicket win on the fourth day of the first Test against South Africa at Kingsmead on Saturday as he hit a career-best 153 not out.

Perera and Vishwa Fernando put on an unbeaten 78 in a last-wicket partnership to secure only Sri Lanka's second win in 14 Test matches in South Africa.

Victory seemed unlikely when the ninth wicket fell with the total on 226, with the tourists chasing a target of 304.

But the left-handed Perera successfully farmed the strike, with South African captain Faf du Plessis persisting with wide-spread fields for the in-form batsman, while Fernando only had to face 27 balls during a 96-ball partnership.

Perera was on 86 when the ninth wicket fell but managed to keep most of the strike and to hit some telling blows in an innings of 200 balls which included 12 fours and five sixes.

"It was a superman effort," said Du Plessis. "He (Perera) deserves all the accolades."

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Sri Lanka have done it! 
 
Kusal Perera's 153* takes them over the line with one of the greatest innings in the history of this brilliant game! 
 
Absolutely incredible.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SAvSL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SAvSL</a> FOLLOW ⬇️ <a href="https://t.co/ILua51ZiiN">https://t.co/ILua51ZiiN</a> <a href="https://t.co/M23vZKId1S">pic.twitter.com/M23vZKId1S</a>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1096760630508441600?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 16, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Low previous average

South Africa took the second new ball with the total on 263 but still kept most of their fielders on the boundary for Perera, who hit sixes off both Dale Steyn and Kagiso Rabada before slashing Rabada to third man for the winning boundary.

Perera, who came into the match with a career batting average below 30 and with his only previous century in 14 previous Tests having been made against Zimbabwe in Harare two seasons ago, shared three important partnerships.

He put on 58 for the fourth wicket with debutant Oshado Fernando (37) and 96 for the sixth wicket with Dhananjaya de Silva (48) before his extraordinary association with Vishwa Fernando.

"I'm a little tired now, I don't know what to say," said Perera when he received the man of the match award. "I did my part but we are winning as a team."

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Century for Kusal Perera, his second in Test cricket! 
 
A brilliant innings for his team in a very difficult situation, superb 👏👏<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SAvSL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SAvSL</a> LIVE ⬇️<a href="https://t.co/ILua51ZiiN">https://t.co/ILua51ZiiN</a> <a href="https://t.co/n0A2R41WSE">pic.twitter.com/n0A2R41WSE</a>
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The stand with Oshado Fernando was broken by Dale Steyn, who had Fernando caught at second slip by South African captain Faf du Plessis. Two balls later he caught Niroshan Dickwella off his own bowling.

Sri Lanka were still a distant 194 runs short of their target when Perera was joined by De Silva, Sri Lanka’s last recognised batsman.

South Africa, who were without opening bowler Vernon Philander because of a strained left hamstring, struggled for the next two hours as Perera and De Silva brought the target down to single figures.

Left-arm spinner Keshav Maharaj took two wickets off successive balls, dismissing De Silva leg before wicket and having Suranga Lakmal caught at slip.

The next two wickets fell quickly – but what seemed certain victory for South Africa turned into a triumph for the tourists, who are assured of at least a share of the honours in a two-match series.

The second Test starts in Port Elizabeth on Thursday.

Kusal Perera carried Sri Lanka to a sensational one-wicket win on the fourth day of the first Test against South Africa at Kingsmead on Saturday as he hit a career-best 153 not out.

Kusal Perera carried Sri Lanka to a sensational one-wicket win on the fourth day of the first Test against South Africa at Kingsmead on Saturday as he hit a career-best 153 not out. Perera and Vishwa Fernando put on an unbeaten 78 in a last-wicket partnership to secure only Sri Lanka's second win in 14 Test matches in South Africa. Victory seemed unlikely when the ninth wicket fell with the total on 226, with the tourists chasing a target of 304. But the left-handed Perera successfully farmed the strike, with South African captain Faf du Plessis persisting with wide-spread fields for the in-form batsman, while Fernando only had to face 27 balls during a 96-ball partnership. Perera was on 86 when the ninth wicket fell but managed to keep most of the strike and to hit some telling blows in an innings of 200 balls which included 12 fours and five sixes. "It was a superman effort," said Du Plessis. "He (Perera) deserves all the accolades." Sri Lanka have done it! Kusal Perera's 153* takes them over the line with one of the greatest innings in the history of this brilliant game! Absolutely incredible.#SAvSL FOLLOW ⬇️ https://t.co/ILua51ZiiN pic.twitter.com/M23vZKId1S — ICC (@ICC) February 16, 2019 × Low previous average South Africa took the second new ball with the total on 263 but still kept most of their fielders on the boundary for Perera, who hit sixes off both Dale Steyn and Kagiso Rabada before slashing Rabada to third man for the winning boundary. Perera, who came into the match with a career batting average below 30 and with his only previous century in 14 previous Tests having been made against Zimbabwe in Harare two seasons ago, shared three important partnerships. He put on 58 for the fourth wicket with debutant Oshado Fernando (37) and 96 for the sixth wicket with Dhananjaya de Silva (48) before his extraordinary association with Vishwa Fernando. "I'm a little tired now, I don't know what to say," said Perera when he received the man of the match award. "I did my part but we are winning as a team." Century for Kusal Perera, his second in Test cricket! A brilliant innings for his team in a very difficult situation, superb 👏👏#SAvSL LIVE ⬇️https://t.co/ILua51ZiiN pic.twitter.com/n0A2R41WSE — ICC (@ICC) February 16, 2019 × The stand with Oshado Fernando was broken by Dale Steyn, who had Fernando caught at second slip by South African captain Faf du Plessis. Two balls later he caught Niroshan Dickwella off his own bowling. Sri Lanka were still a distant 194 runs short of their target when Perera was joined by De Silva, Sri Lanka’s last recognised batsman. South Africa, who were without opening bowler Vernon Philander because of a strained left hamstring, struggled for the next two hours as Perera and De Silva brought the target down to single figures. Left-arm spinner Keshav Maharaj took two wickets off successive balls, dismissing De Silva leg before wicket and having Suranga Lakmal caught at slip. The next two wickets fell quickly – but what seemed certain victory for South Africa turned into a triumph for the tourists, who are assured of at least a share of the honours in a two-match series. The second Test starts in Port Elizabeth on Thursday.

Kusal Perera takes Sri Lanka to sensational win in South Africa

West Indies fast bowler Shannon Gabriel was Wednesday suspended for four one-day internationals after breaching the International Cricket Council's code of conduct over comments made to England's Joe Root.

Gabriel has been fined 75 percent of his match fee for the incident during the third Test in St Lucia and handed three demerit points, taking his total to eight within a 24-month period.

The nature of the paceman's words is not known but England captain Root was picked up on stump microphones telling Gabriel: "Don't use it as an insult. There's nothing wrong with being gay."

A statement from the ICC said: "During the third day of the St Lucia Test against England on Monday, Gabriel was found guilty of breaching article 2.13 of the ICC code of conduct... which relates to "personal abuse of a player, player support personnel, umpire or match referee during an international match", following an incident with Root.

"Gabriel admitted the offence after the end of the match on Tuesday and accepted the sanction."

West Indies won the Test series against England 2-1.

Root received praise for his response to Gabriel, made in the process of compiling a century, with fellow sportsmen, politicians and LGBT equality charity Stonewall all applauding his stance.

Gabriel, 30, already had five demerit points against his name for two earlier incidents. With the addition of the latest three demerit points, he has reached the threshold of eight demerit points, converted into four suspension points.

Four suspension points equate to a ban from two Tests or four ODIs/Twenty20 internationals, whichever come first for the player.

Gabriel was in November suspended from a Test in Bangladesh when he reached the threshold of four demerit points.

The five-match one-day series starts in Barbados on February 20.

West Indies fast bowler Shannon Gabriel was Wednesday suspended for four one-day internationals after breaching the International Cricket Council's code of conduct over comments made to England's Joe Root.

West Indies fast bowler Shannon Gabriel was Wednesday suspended for four one-day internationals after breaching the International Cricket Council's code of conduct over comments made to England's Joe Root. Gabriel has been fined 75 percent of his match fee for the incident during the third Test in St Lucia and handed three demerit points, taking his total to eight within a 24-month period. The nature of the paceman's words is not known but England captain Root was picked up on stump microphones telling Gabriel: "Don't use it as an insult. There's nothing wrong with being gay." A statement from the ICC said: "During the third day of the St Lucia Test against England on Monday, Gabriel was found guilty of breaching article 2.13 of the ICC code of conduct... which relates to "personal abuse of a player, player support personnel, umpire or match referee during an international match", following an incident with Root. "Gabriel admitted the offence after the end of the match on Tuesday and accepted the sanction." West Indies won the Test series against England 2-1. Root received praise for his response to Gabriel, made in the process of compiling a century, with fellow sportsmen, politicians and LGBT equality charity Stonewall all applauding his stance. Gabriel, 30, already had five demerit points against his name for two earlier incidents. With the addition of the latest three demerit points, he has reached the threshold of eight demerit points, converted into four suspension points. Four suspension points equate to a ban from two Tests or four ODIs/Twenty20 internationals, whichever come first for the player. Gabriel was in November suspended from a Test in Bangladesh when he reached the threshold of four demerit points. The five-match one-day series starts in Barbados on February 20.

West Indies bowler Shannon Gabriel suspended after Joe Root exchange

West Indies captain Jason Holder said that his side's main goal is to become the world's number one team after their impressive series victory over England.

England comfortably claimed a consolation win in the third Test on Tuesday, but back-to-back thumping triumphs in Barbados and Antigua had already secured the hosts an <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/england-beat-west-indies-by-232-runs-in-final-test-197090">unassailable 2-0 series</a> lead.

"We have got to keep improving in the three facets of the game and be clinical and lot more consistent," said Holder, who missed the game in St Lucia through suspension for a slow over-rate.

"Our bowlers have done an outstanding job. It is up to our batsmen to contribute more.

"We need to continue to build and not rest on our laurels. Our number one goal is to be the number one team in the world so there is a lot to improve on."&nbsp;

Also Read: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/windies-shannon-gabriel-charged-for-language-used-in-england-test-197093">Windies' Shannon Gabriel charged for </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/windies-shannon-gabriel-charged-for-language-used-in-england-test-197093">language</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/windies-shannon-gabriel-charged-for-language-used-in-england-test-197093"> used in England Test</a>

The West Indies have been a shadow of the side which totally dominated world cricket for much of the 1970s and 80s, and after years of struggles, sit eighth in the current ICC rankings, ahead of only Bangladesh and Zimbabwe.

The Caribbean outfit do not play a Test until after the World Cup, which finishes in July, with a five-match one-day international series against England next on the agenda.

Chasing an improbable 485 to win on Tuesday, the West Indies were bowled out for 252 despite a battling, unbeaten 102 from Roston Chase.

"I had a chat with Roston before his innings," said Holder.

"He was a little disheartened with his dismissals in this series so it is good to see him knuckle down and get some runs, especially in the context of the day. It would have been easy for us to be rolled over."&nbsp;

Questions for England&nbsp;

England salvaged some pride and confidence in St Lucia, with Mark Wood's fiery spell which saw him take a maiden Test five-wicket haul in the first innings a high point.

Joe Root's players face a potentially career-defining 2019 as England host both the World Cup and an Ashes series.

But questions remain, especially at the top of the order where openers Rory Burns and Keaton Jennings struggled for runs in the first series since Alastair Cook's retirement.

"I think they've all shown what they are capable (of) and the challenge is to do it more regularly," England coach Trevor Bayliss told Sky Sports.

"The early-season Championship matches will play a big role for those at the top. If they score a lot of runs early season it will go a long way to helping them play in that first Ashes Test."

West Indies captain Jason Holder said that his side's main goal is to become the world's number one team after their impressive series victory over England. England comfortably claimed a consolation win in the third Test on Tuesday, but back-to-back thumping triumphs in Barbados and Antigua had already secured the hosts an unassailable 2-0 series lead.

West Indies captain Jason Holder said that his side's main goal is to become the world's number one team after their impressive series victory over England. England comfortably claimed a consolation win in the third Test on Tuesday, but back-to-back thumping triumphs in Barbados and Antigua had already secured the hosts an unassailable 2-0 series lead. "We have got to keep improving in the three facets of the game and be clinical and lot more consistent," said Holder, who missed the game in St Lucia through suspension for a slow over-rate. "Our bowlers have done an outstanding job. It is up to our batsmen to contribute more. "We need to continue to build and not rest on our laurels. Our number one goal is to be the number one team in the world so there is a lot to improve on." Also Read: Windies' Shannon Gabriel charged for language used in England Test The West Indies have been a shadow of the side which totally dominated world cricket for much of the 1970s and 80s, and after years of struggles, sit eighth in the current ICC rankings, ahead of only Bangladesh and Zimbabwe. The Caribbean outfit do not play a Test until after the World Cup, which finishes in July, with a five-match one-day international series against England next on the agenda. Chasing an improbable 485 to win on Tuesday, the West Indies were bowled out for 252 despite a battling, unbeaten 102 from Roston Chase. "I had a chat with Roston before his innings," said Holder. "He was a little disheartened with his dismissals in this series so it is good to see him knuckle down and get some runs, especially in the context of the day. It would have been easy for us to be rolled over." Questions for England England salvaged some pride and confidence in St Lucia, with Mark Wood's fiery spell which saw him take a maiden Test five-wicket haul in the first innings a high point. Joe Root's players face a potentially career-defining 2019 as England host both the World Cup and an Ashes series. But questions remain, especially at the top of the order where openers Rory Burns and Keaton Jennings struggled for runs in the first series since Alastair Cook's retirement. "I think they've all shown what they are capable (of) and the challenge is to do it more regularly," England coach Trevor Bayliss told Sky Sports. "The early-season Championship matches will play a big role for those at the top. If they score a lot of runs early season it will go a long way to helping them play in that first Ashes Test."

Windies aiming to become world's No. 1 team, says Jason Holder

West Indies fast bowler Shannon Gabriel has been charged for a language used during the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/england-beat-west-indies-by-232-runs-in-final-test-197090">third Test against England</a> on Monday, the International Cricket Council (ICC) has said.

Gabriel's comment to Joe Root was not audible to television viewers but according to British broadcaster Sky Sports the England captain was heard replying to the bowler: "Don't use it as an insult. There's nothing wrong with being gay".

Umpires Rod Tucker and Kumar Dharmasena spoke to Gabriel afterwards and he was charged with breaching Article 2.13 of the ICC's Code of Conduct on Tuesday.

"The charge, which was laid by match umpires, will now be dealt with by Match Referee Jeff Crowe," the governing body said in a statement on Tuesday. "Until the proceedings have concluded, the ICC will not comment further."

Article 2.13 addresses personal, insulting, obscene or offensive language directed at other players or match officials.

Root declined to elaborate on the specifics of the verbal altercation and was asked again about the incident on Tuesday, after England had won the final Test in St. Lucia, though West Indies claimed the series 2-1.

"As a player you feel you have responsibilities to uphold on the field and I stand by what I did," said the England captain, according to the Guardian.

"The ICC have got to handle things and I am not in a position to comment but throughout the series it has been played in the right manner between the two sides.

"West Indies have played some fantastic cricket, they are a good bunch of guys and it would be a shame if it tarnishes it."

UK&nbsp;Sports Minister Mims Davies was among those who praised Root for his stance.

"What a Leader, Ambassador and HUGE RESPECT for doing the absolute right thing to properly call this out!" Davies said on her Twitter account.

"He is completely right as there simply is NO place in any sport, at any level for discrimination, intolerance and prejudice."

Former England cricketer Nasser Hussain said Root's reaction would help cement his legacy.

"For me his twelve words as a role model will be in the end more important than a Test hundred or possible victory," Hussain tweeted.

West Indies fast bowler Shannon Gabriel has been charged for a language used during the third Test against England on Monday, the International Cricket Council (ICC) has said.

West Indies fast bowler Shannon Gabriel has been charged for a language used during the third Test against England on Monday, the International Cricket Council (ICC) has said. Gabriel's comment to Joe Root was not audible to television viewers but according to British broadcaster Sky Sports the England captain was heard replying to the bowler: "Don't use it as an insult. There's nothing wrong with being gay". Umpires Rod Tucker and Kumar Dharmasena spoke to Gabriel afterwards and he was charged with breaching Article 2.13 of the ICC's Code of Conduct on Tuesday. "The charge, which was laid by match umpires, will now be dealt with by Match Referee Jeff Crowe," the governing body said in a statement on Tuesday. "Until the proceedings have concluded, the ICC will not comment further." Article 2.13 addresses personal, insulting, obscene or offensive language directed at other players or match officials. Root declined to elaborate on the specifics of the verbal altercation and was asked again about the incident on Tuesday, after England had won the final Test in St. Lucia, though West Indies claimed the series 2-1. "As a player you feel you have responsibilities to uphold on the field and I stand by what I did," said the England captain, according to the Guardian. "The ICC have got to handle things and I am not in a position to comment but throughout the series it has been played in the right manner between the two sides. "West Indies have played some fantastic cricket, they are a good bunch of guys and it would be a shame if it tarnishes it." UK Sports Minister Mims Davies was among those who praised Root for his stance. "What a Leader, Ambassador and HUGE RESPECT for doing the absolute right thing to properly call this out!" Davies said on her Twitter account. "He is completely right as there simply is NO place in any sport, at any level for discrimination, intolerance and prejudice." Former England cricketer Nasser Hussain said Root's reaction would help cement his legacy. "For me his twelve words as a role model will be in the end more important than a Test hundred or possible victory," Hussain tweeted.

Windies' Shannon Gabriel charged for language used in England Test

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