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.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
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: <a href="https://t.co/tk1bG2fLyn">https://t.co/tk1bG2fLyn</a> <a href="https://t.co/iyXTJx09Z7">pic.twitter.com/iyXTJx09Z7</a>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1162981971179515904?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 18, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

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

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;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
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>
— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketcomau/status/1161224013399646208?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 13, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

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

Cricket West Indies (CWI) on Saturday named the 13-member squad for the upcoming Test series against India.

The interim selection panel of CWI headed by Robert Haynes has included Antiguan uncapped off-spinner Rahkeem Cornwall in the squad.

"Rahkeem has been performing consistently over a long period and has proven to be a match-winner, so we believe his elevation to the Test squad is merited at this time," said Haynes.

The squad includes two uncapped players - Cornwall and Shamarh Brooks. The Test side will be lead by pacer Jason Holder.

Cornwall will make his long-awaited Test debut at home when West Indies kick off their campaign in the ICC World Test Championship against India later this month.

Cornwall has been rewarded for his impressive record for Leeward Islands Hurricanes in the West Indies Championship and the West Indies "A" team, since making his first-class debut less than five years ago.

The 26-year-old has taken 260 wickets at an average of 23.90 in 55 first-class matches and is highly regarded among his peers as one of the most effective spin bowlers in the Caribbean side.

West Indies squad for Test series against India: Jason Holder (c), Kraigg Brathwaite, Darren Bravo, Shamarh Brooks, John Campbell, Roston Chase, Rahkeem Cornwall, Shane Dowrich, Shannon Gabriel, Shimron Hetmyer, Shai Hope, Keemo Paul, Kemar Roach.

Windies will play against India in two Test matches. The first Test will be played at the Sir Vivian Richards Cricket Ground in Antigua from August 22 to 26.

Cricket West Indies (CWI) on Saturday named the 13-member squad for the upcoming Test series against India. The interim selection panel of CWI headed by Robert Haynes has included Antiguan uncapped off-spinner Rahkeem Cornwall in the squad.

Cricket West Indies (CWI) on Saturday named the 13-member squad for the upcoming Test series against India. The interim selection panel of CWI headed by Robert Haynes has included Antiguan uncapped off-spinner Rahkeem Cornwall in the squad. "Rahkeem has been performing consistently over a long period and has proven to be a match-winner, so we believe his elevation to the Test squad is merited at this time," said Haynes. The squad includes two uncapped players - Cornwall and Shamarh Brooks. The Test side will be lead by pacer Jason Holder. Cornwall will make his long-awaited Test debut at home when West Indies kick off their campaign in the ICC World Test Championship against India later this month. Cornwall has been rewarded for his impressive record for Leeward Islands Hurricanes in the West Indies Championship and the West Indies "A" team, since making his first-class debut less than five years ago. The 26-year-old has taken 260 wickets at an average of 23.90 in 55 first-class matches and is highly regarded among his peers as one of the most effective spin bowlers in the Caribbean side. West Indies squad for Test series against India: Jason Holder (c), Kraigg Brathwaite, Darren Bravo, Shamarh Brooks, John Campbell, Roston Chase, Rahkeem Cornwall, Shane Dowrich, Shannon Gabriel, Shimron Hetmyer, Shai Hope, Keemo Paul, Kemar Roach. Windies will play against India in two Test matches. The first Test will be played at the Sir Vivian Richards Cricket Ground in Antigua from August 22 to 26.

West Indies name 13-member squad for Test series against India

Sri Lanka recalled former captains Dinesh Chandimal and Angelo Mathews on Friday for the first Test against New Zealand which starts in Galle on Aug. 14.

Chandimal was dropped from the team for their tour of South Africa earlier this year due to poor form and did not make the squad for the World Cup either.

Mathews, who missed the South Africa tour due to a hamstring injury but played in the World Cup, returns to the Test side after an impressive performance in Sri Lanka's recent 3-0 one-day international series win over Bangladesh.

Wicketkeeper-batsman Niroshan Dickwella, who also missed the World Cup, is another notable addition to the 15-man squad, which includes spinners Lasith Embuldeniya, Lakshan Sandakan and Akila Dananjaya.

Suranga Lakmal, Lahiru Kumara and Vishwa Fernando are the three quicks in the line-up, with all-rounder Dhananjaya de Silva offering another spin option.

Sri Lanka will be coached by former fast bowler Rumesh Ratnayake during the series, after his appointment on an interim basis on Wednesday.

Sri Lanka Cricket has so far refused to clarify whether head coach Chandika Hathurusingha has been sacked. [nL4N2534K9]

Sri Lanka squad:

Dimuth Karunaratne (C), Angelo Mathews, Dinesh Chandimal, Lahiru Thirimanne, Kusal Mendis, Kusal Janith Perera, Niroshan Dickwella, Dhananjaya De Silva, Akila Dananjaya, Lasith Embuldeniya, Suranga Lakmal, Lahiru Kumara, Oshada Fernando, Lakshan Sandakan, Vishwa Fernando

Sri Lanka recalled former captains Dinesh Chandimal and Angelo Mathews on Friday for the first Test against New Zealand which starts in Galle on Aug. 14. Chandimal was dropped from the team for their tour of South Africa earlier this year due to poor form and did not make the squad for the World Cup either.

Sri Lanka recalled former captains Dinesh Chandimal and Angelo Mathews on Friday for the first Test against New Zealand which starts in Galle on Aug. 14. Chandimal was dropped from the team for their tour of South Africa earlier this year due to poor form and did not make the squad for the World Cup either. Mathews, who missed the South Africa tour due to a hamstring injury but played in the World Cup, returns to the Test side after an impressive performance in Sri Lanka's recent 3-0 one-day international series win over Bangladesh. Wicketkeeper-batsman Niroshan Dickwella, who also missed the World Cup, is another notable addition to the 15-man squad, which includes spinners Lasith Embuldeniya, Lakshan Sandakan and Akila Dananjaya. Suranga Lakmal, Lahiru Kumara and Vishwa Fernando are the three quicks in the line-up, with all-rounder Dhananjaya de Silva offering another spin option. Sri Lanka will be coached by former fast bowler Rumesh Ratnayake during the series, after his appointment on an interim basis on Wednesday. Sri Lanka Cricket has so far refused to clarify whether head coach Chandika Hathurusingha has been sacked. [nL4N2534K9] Sri Lanka squad: Dimuth Karunaratne (C), Angelo Mathews, Dinesh Chandimal, Lahiru Thirimanne, Kusal Mendis, Kusal Janith Perera, Niroshan Dickwella, Dhananjaya De Silva, Akila Dananjaya, Lasith Embuldeniya, Suranga Lakmal, Lahiru Kumara, Oshada Fernando, Lakshan Sandakan, Vishwa Fernando

Sri Lanka recall Dinesh Chandimal, Angelo Mathews for New Zealand Test

New Zealand skipper Kane Williamson celebrated his 29th birthday with Sri Lankan fans in a very special way during a warm-up match on Thursday.&nbsp;

A group of fans at Katunayake's Air Force Ground had gathered with cake on the sidelines of the stadium. During the drinks break, Williamson walked up to the fans and cut the cake and&nbsp;also posed for selfies.&nbsp;

Ahead of the Test series, Williamson-led team and Sri Lanka Board Presidents XI are playing a three-day practice match.&nbsp;

Sri Lanka Cricket tweeted pictures of the moment and wrote: "What a way to celebrate the Birthday! Kane Williamson celebrates his 29th with Sri Lankan fans eating a piece of Cake with them during the warm-up! @BLACKCAPS."&nbsp;

New Zealand are touring to Sri Lanka to play two Tests and three T20 Internationals. The first Test against will be played in Galle starting August 14, and the second will begin on August 22 at Colombo's P Sara stadium.&nbsp;

Watch the video:&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Kane Williamson - The most loved cricketer in the world celebrating his 29th birthday in an unusual way. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Champion?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Champion</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SLvNZ?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SLvNZ</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/BLACKCAPS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BLACKCAPS</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/ThePapareSports?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ThePapareSports</a> <a href="https://t.co/ZWaQbqyXPn">pic.twitter.com/ZWaQbqyXPn</a>
— Damith Weerasinghe (@Damith1994) <a href="https://twitter.com/Damith1994/status/1159443962811179008?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 8, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Sri Lankan 🇱🇰 Cricket fans gets Kane Williamson a cake 🎂 for his 29th birthday. He takes a bite between overs. 🏏 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Cricket?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Cricket</a> <a href="https://t.co/klIcumrkqR">https://t.co/klIcumrkqR</a> <a href="https://t.co/EI2BPMPb6H">pic.twitter.com/EI2BPMPb6H</a>
— iqbaal ahmed 🇵🇸🇲🇻✌❤ (@IqbaalAhmed6) <a href="https://twitter.com/IqbaalAhmed6/status/1159688770066583552?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 9, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Williamson was hailed for his graceful acceptance of New Zealand's heart-breaking defeat against England via boundary count in the final of this year's 50-overs World Cup.

New Zealand skipper Kane Williamson celebrated his 29th birthday with Sri Lankan fans in a very special way during a warm-up match on Thursday. A group of fans at Katunayake's Air Force Ground had gathered with cake on the sidelines of the stadium.

New Zealand skipper Kane Williamson celebrated his 29th birthday with Sri Lankan fans in a very special way during a warm-up match on Thursday. A group of fans at Katunayake's Air Force Ground had gathered with cake on the sidelines of the stadium. During the drinks break, Williamson walked up to the fans and cut the cake and also posed for selfies. Ahead of the Test series, Williamson-led team and Sri Lanka Board Presidents XI are playing a three-day practice match. Sri Lanka Cricket tweeted pictures of the moment and wrote: "What a way to celebrate the Birthday! Kane Williamson celebrates his 29th with Sri Lankan fans eating a piece of Cake with them during the warm-up! @BLACKCAPS." New Zealand are touring to Sri Lanka to play two Tests and three T20 Internationals. The first Test against will be played in Galle starting August 14, and the second will begin on August 22 at Colombo's P Sara stadium. Watch the video: Kane Williamson - The most loved cricketer in the world celebrating his 29th birthday in an unusual way. #Champion #SLvNZ @BLACKCAPS @ThePapareSports pic.twitter.com/ZWaQbqyXPn — Damith Weerasinghe (@Damith1994) August 8, 2019 × Sri Lankan 🇱🇰 Cricket fans gets Kane Williamson a cake 🎂 for his 29th birthday. He takes a bite between overs. 🏏 #Cricket https://t.co/klIcumrkqR pic.twitter.com/EI2BPMPb6H — iqbaal ahmed 🇵🇸🇲🇻✌❤ (@IqbaalAhmed6) August 9, 2019 × Williamson was hailed for his graceful acceptance of New Zealand's heart-breaking defeat against England via boundary count in the final of this year's 50-overs World Cup.

Watch: Kane Williamson celebrates birthday with Sri Lankan fans

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

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

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;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
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>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

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

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;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
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>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

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.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
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>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

"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

Opening batsman Jason Roy and fast bowler Olly Stone will make their England Test debuts in a one-off match against Ireland starting at Lord's on Wednesday.

Surrey batsman Roy is set to earn his first Test cap after racking up an impressive 443 runs in England's triumphant 50-overs World Cup campaign.

Roy is poised to bat at the top of the order with Surrey teammate Rory Burns in a four-day match against Ireland and will have an opportunity to impress the selectors ahead of the Ashes series against Australia starting on Aug. 1.

"It's a very, very new challenge and something I have been excited for and nervous for the last couple of years," Roy told Sky Sports.

"I have been in a good place with my cricket and feel in the best place I can be to succeed. Whether that is the case, I don't know, no one knows.

"The reason I have been so successful in the last couple of years and playing such good cricket at the top of the order is because my defence has been in really good order."

Warwickshire paceman Stone will make his debut having recovered from a back injury that forced him to return home from England's tour of West Indies earlier this year.

The 25-year-old was included in the lineup after the experienced James Anderson failed to recover from a calf injury, which he picked up playing for his county Lancashire against Durham this month.

"He (Anderson) will continue to be assessed ahead of the first Ashes Test at Edgbaston on August 1," the ECB said in a statement on Tuesday.

Anderson, England's leading wicket-taker in Tests, is one of several England bowlers struggling with injury ahead of the five-Test Ashes series against Australia.

Fast bowlers Mark Wood and Jofra Archer, part of the World Cup-winning one-day team, were not available for selection for the Ireland Test because both have suffered side strains.

Wood has been ruled out for four to six weeks, while Archer will have a period of rest before being considered for Ashes selection.

Having been awarded Test status in 2017, Ireland are chasing their first win in the longest format after losses to Pakistan and Afghanistan.

England team v Ireland: Joe Root (captain), Moeen Ali, Rory Burns, Sam Curran, Jonny Bairstow, Stuart Broad, Joe Denly, Jack Leach, Jason Roy, Olly Stone, Chris Woakes

Opening batsman Jason Roy and fast bowler Olly Stone will make their England Test debuts in a one-off match against Ireland starting at Lord's on Wednesday. Surrey batsman Roy is set to earn his first Test cap after racking up an impressive 443 runs in England's triumphant 50-overs World Cup campaign.

Opening batsman Jason Roy and fast bowler Olly Stone will make their England Test debuts in a one-off match against Ireland starting at Lord's on Wednesday. Surrey batsman Roy is set to earn his first Test cap after racking up an impressive 443 runs in England's triumphant 50-overs World Cup campaign. Roy is poised to bat at the top of the order with Surrey teammate Rory Burns in a four-day match against Ireland and will have an opportunity to impress the selectors ahead of the Ashes series against Australia starting on Aug. 1. "It's a very, very new challenge and something I have been excited for and nervous for the last couple of years," Roy told Sky Sports. "I have been in a good place with my cricket and feel in the best place I can be to succeed. Whether that is the case, I don't know, no one knows. "The reason I have been so successful in the last couple of years and playing such good cricket at the top of the order is because my defence has been in really good order." Warwickshire paceman Stone will make his debut having recovered from a back injury that forced him to return home from England's tour of West Indies earlier this year. The 25-year-old was included in the lineup after the experienced James Anderson failed to recover from a calf injury, which he picked up playing for his county Lancashire against Durham this month. "He (Anderson) will continue to be assessed ahead of the first Ashes Test at Edgbaston on August 1," the ECB said in a statement on Tuesday. Anderson, England's leading wicket-taker in Tests, is one of several England bowlers struggling with injury ahead of the five-Test Ashes series against Australia. Fast bowlers Mark Wood and Jofra Archer, part of the World Cup-winning one-day team, were not available for selection for the Ireland Test because both have suffered side strains. Wood has been ruled out for four to six weeks, while Archer will have a period of rest before being considered for Ashes selection. Having been awarded Test status in 2017, Ireland are chasing their first win in the longest format after losses to Pakistan and Afghanistan. England team v Ireland: Joe Root (captain), Moeen Ali, Rory Burns, Sam Curran, Jonny Bairstow, Stuart Broad, Joe Denly, Jack Leach, Jason Roy, Olly Stone, Chris Woakes

Jason Roy and Olly Stone to make Test debuts against Ireland

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

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".

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Williamson, Wagner and de Grandhomme lit up Hamilton as New Zealand put themselves in a strong position for victory in the first Test. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NZvBAN?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NZvBAN</a> DAY 3 REPORT 👇<a href="https://t.co/ah1AZ9urQ8">https://t.co/ah1AZ9urQ8</a> <a href="https://t.co/YWXZPIDndJ">pic.twitter.com/YWXZPIDndJ</a>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1101738880968073216?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 2, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

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."

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
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>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

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."

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
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>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1096746642605252611?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 16, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

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

Joe Burns and Travis Head plundered Australia's first centuries of the home summer Friday in a stirring fightback as they ruthlessly exposed Sri Lanka's inexperienced attack in the second Test at Canberra.

Australian skipper Tim Paine won the toss at the Manuka Oval and put his side in on a flat track conducive to batting, a gambit that paid off after some early wobbles.

At stumps, they were a commanding 384 for four with Burns not out 172 and Kurtis Patterson, who was dropped first ball, on 25.

Head fell for 161 after a 308-run stand with Burns -- Australia's first stand over 200 since Steve Smith and Mitch Marsh achieved the feat in the third Test against England in December 2017.

Vishwa Fernando was the best of the bowlers with 3-99.

On a cool, overcast day, Burns and Head dug Australia out of a hole after they lost Marcus Harris, Usman Khawaja and Marnus Labuschagne cheaply to be in trouble at 28 for three.

After weathering the storm and as the new ball lost its shine, the pair started cashing in on a Sri Lankan attack missing their top bowlers and fieldsmen who put down a host of chances.

Back in the side after being overlooked for the series against Pakistan and India, opener Burns survived a dropped catch on 34, but was otherwise invincible and brought up his fourth Test ton off 147 balls with a single.

His 172 surpassed his previous high score of 170 against New Zealand in 2016.

Burns' knock was the first century for Australia since Khawaja's 141 against Pakistan in Dubai in October and only the second an Australian has scored since the fifth Ashes Test in Sydney almost 13 months ago.

Vice-captain Head soon followed suit, reaching his maiden hundred off 155 balls in his eighth Test with a boundary, capitalising on Dilruwan Perera dropping him on 87.&nbsp;

It puts the pair in prime position to be selected for the Ashes series later this year, with the Canberra Test -- the first-ever in the nation's capital -- Australia's last before their tour of England.&nbsp;

Dire start

Their partnership followed a dire start against a depleted attack and a team they had beaten by an innings and 40 runs in the first Test at Brisbane.

Pace duo Lahiru Kumara and Dushmantha Chameera picked up injuries in that rout, with the inexperienced Kasun Rajitha and Fernando taking their place.

And in a big blow, Suranga Lakmal, their best bowler in Brisbane, was ruled out on the morning of the Test with a stiff back, with debutant Chamika Karunaratne brought in as his replacement.

The three newcomers have only five Tests of experience between them, and they initially rose to the challenge.

Harris fell for 11 in the fourth over with a poorly executed square drive off Fernando caught at point by Karunarante.

The out-of-form Khawaja soon followed, lasting just three balls before offering a lazy jab at an out-swinger from Fernando. He was caught at slip by Kusal Mendis for nought, leaving Australia on 15 for two.

The gloom continued when Karunaratne struck with his fourth ball in Test cricket, removing Labuschagne with an excellent angled delivery for six, caught off a thick edge by Niroshan Dickwella.

Burns watched the carnage at the other end and dug in, playing only the loose balls as he bided his time and waited for the bowlers to wilt.

Head followed a similar pattern with both men accelerating the run rate once the pressure of scoring centuries was past. Head was finally undone by Fernando, who snared him lbw.

Joe Burns and Travis Head plundered Australia's first centuries of the home summer Friday in a stirring fightback as they ruthlessly exposed Sri Lanka's inexperienced attack in the second Test at Canberra.

Joe Burns and Travis Head plundered Australia's first centuries of the home summer Friday in a stirring fightback as they ruthlessly exposed Sri Lanka's inexperienced attack in the second Test at Canberra. Australian skipper Tim Paine won the toss at the Manuka Oval and put his side in on a flat track conducive to batting, a gambit that paid off after some early wobbles. At stumps, they were a commanding 384 for four with Burns not out 172 and Kurtis Patterson, who was dropped first ball, on 25. Head fell for 161 after a 308-run stand with Burns -- Australia's first stand over 200 since Steve Smith and Mitch Marsh achieved the feat in the third Test against England in December 2017. Vishwa Fernando was the best of the bowlers with 3-99. On a cool, overcast day, Burns and Head dug Australia out of a hole after they lost Marcus Harris, Usman Khawaja and Marnus Labuschagne cheaply to be in trouble at 28 for three. After weathering the storm and as the new ball lost its shine, the pair started cashing in on a Sri Lankan attack missing their top bowlers and fieldsmen who put down a host of chances. Back in the side after being overlooked for the series against Pakistan and India, opener Burns survived a dropped catch on 34, but was otherwise invincible and brought up his fourth Test ton off 147 balls with a single. His 172 surpassed his previous high score of 170 against New Zealand in 2016. Burns' knock was the first century for Australia since Khawaja's 141 against Pakistan in Dubai in October and only the second an Australian has scored since the fifth Ashes Test in Sydney almost 13 months ago. Vice-captain Head soon followed suit, reaching his maiden hundred off 155 balls in his eighth Test with a boundary, capitalising on Dilruwan Perera dropping him on 87. It puts the pair in prime position to be selected for the Ashes series later this year, with the Canberra Test -- the first-ever in the nation's capital -- Australia's last before their tour of England. Dire start Their partnership followed a dire start against a depleted attack and a team they had beaten by an innings and 40 runs in the first Test at Brisbane. Pace duo Lahiru Kumara and Dushmantha Chameera picked up injuries in that rout, with the inexperienced Kasun Rajitha and Fernando taking their place. And in a big blow, Suranga Lakmal, their best bowler in Brisbane, was ruled out on the morning of the Test with a stiff back, with debutant Chamika Karunaratne brought in as his replacement. The three newcomers have only five Tests of experience between them, and they initially rose to the challenge. Harris fell for 11 in the fourth over with a poorly executed square drive off Fernando caught at point by Karunarante. The out-of-form Khawaja soon followed, lasting just three balls before offering a lazy jab at an out-swinger from Fernando. He was caught at slip by Kusal Mendis for nought, leaving Australia on 15 for two. The gloom continued when Karunaratne struck with his fourth ball in Test cricket, removing Labuschagne with an excellent angled delivery for six, caught off a thick edge by Niroshan Dickwella. Burns watched the carnage at the other end and dug in, playing only the loose balls as he bided his time and waited for the bowlers to wilt. Head followed a similar pattern with both men accelerating the run rate once the pressure of scoring centuries was past. Head was finally undone by Fernando, who snared him lbw.

AUSvsSL, 2nd Test: Joe Burns, Travis Head put Australia in control against Sri Lanka

Part-time off-spinner Roston Chase took eight wickets as West Indies crushed England by 381 runs in the first test in Barbados on Saturday.

Chase seized his chance to shine in the absence of any specialist spinner in the team, picking up a test-best eight for 60 at Kensington Oval in Bridgetown.

West Indies, rank underdogs in the three-match series, bowled out England for 246 in the second innings after dismissing them for 77 in the first.

They won with more than a day to spare in what can only be termed a shambolic display by the visitors, who were coming off a summer series win over number one ranked India.

The England top-order all got starts in the second innings but only opener Rory Burns (84) turned it into a big score.

"Bitterly disappointed," England captain Joe Root said in an on-field interview.

"We're a far better side than we've played this week and we've got to keep remembering how well we have played of late."

Statisticians reached for the record books to put the result into historic perspective, revealing only two occasions when the Windies won by bigger margins by runs.

They defeated England by 425 runs in Manchester in 1976 and dusted Australia by 408 runs in Adelaide in 1980.

"It's difficult to explain and hard to take," Root added.

"We didn't underestimate them. It just showed how difficult it is to win away from home."

Chase's extraordinary figures - better than Shane Warne's test best of eight for 71 - were achieved even though he did not exact prodigious turn. He got just enough, however, to keep the batsmen on edge.

Chase came into the match with a profligate test bowling average of over 40. He flighted the ball well but was aided by some poor shots by the batsmen.

Despite Chase's heroics, West Indies captain Jason Holder was named man of the match after his unbeaten second innings knock of 202.

"Really good test match for me personally. To come back the way I've come back I'm really pleased," Holder, who missed the recent tour of Bangladesh due to a shoulder injury, said.

"I've put in a lot of hard work over the last couple of months trying to get myself back to full fitness. I've had a lot (of emotion) bottled up for a long time."

He also heaped praise on Chase.

"He bowled extremely well today. He got the ball in a really good area."

Holder warned that the result, though welcome, was only one match.

"We've still got a long way to go. One test match doesn't make a summer. We've been in this position before, so lots of hard work to be done."

The second test starts on Thursday in North Sound on the island of Antigua.

"We ticked a few boxes in this test match but it's a matter of turning up in Antigua and doing the same," Holder said.

Part-time off-spinner Roston Chase took eight wickets as West Indies crushed England by 381 runs in the first test in Barbados on Saturday. Chase seized his chance to shine in the absence of any specialist spinner in the team, picking up a test-best eight for 60 at Kensington Oval in Bridgetown.

Part-time off-spinner Roston Chase took eight wickets as West Indies crushed England by 381 runs in the first test in Barbados on Saturday. Chase seized his chance to shine in the absence of any specialist spinner in the team, picking up a test-best eight for 60 at Kensington Oval in Bridgetown. West Indies, rank underdogs in the three-match series, bowled out England for 246 in the second innings after dismissing them for 77 in the first. They won with more than a day to spare in what can only be termed a shambolic display by the visitors, who were coming off a summer series win over number one ranked India. The England top-order all got starts in the second innings but only opener Rory Burns (84) turned it into a big score. "Bitterly disappointed," England captain Joe Root said in an on-field interview. "We're a far better side than we've played this week and we've got to keep remembering how well we have played of late." Statisticians reached for the record books to put the result into historic perspective, revealing only two occasions when the Windies won by bigger margins by runs. They defeated England by 425 runs in Manchester in 1976 and dusted Australia by 408 runs in Adelaide in 1980. "It's difficult to explain and hard to take," Root added. "We didn't underestimate them. It just showed how difficult it is to win away from home." Chase's extraordinary figures - better than Shane Warne's test best of eight for 71 - were achieved even though he did not exact prodigious turn. He got just enough, however, to keep the batsmen on edge. Chase came into the match with a profligate test bowling average of over 40. He flighted the ball well but was aided by some poor shots by the batsmen. Despite Chase's heroics, West Indies captain Jason Holder was named man of the match after his unbeaten second innings knock of 202. "Really good test match for me personally. To come back the way I've come back I'm really pleased," Holder, who missed the recent tour of Bangladesh due to a shoulder injury, said. "I've put in a lot of hard work over the last couple of months trying to get myself back to full fitness. I've had a lot (of emotion) bottled up for a long time." He also heaped praise on Chase. "He bowled extremely well today. He got the ball in a really good area." Holder warned that the result, though welcome, was only one match. "We've still got a long way to go. One test match doesn't make a summer. We've been in this position before, so lots of hard work to be done." The second test starts on Thursday in North Sound on the island of Antigua. "We ticked a few boxes in this test match but it's a matter of turning up in Antigua and doing the same," Holder said.

ENGvsWI: Part-time spinner Roston Chase stars as Windies beat England

Pat Cummins took a career-best 6-23 to help Australia crush Sri Lanka by an innings and 40 runs inside three days in the series opening day-night Test in Brisbane on Saturday.

The paceman completed his maiden 10-wicket match haul as Australia bundled out Sri Lanka for 139, five fewer than the tourists had managed in their first innings, to register only their second Test win of the summer at the Gabba.

Jhye Richardson claimed two-second innings wickets in his impressive debut with Australia comfortably maintaining their record of not having lost a Test at the Gabba since 1988.

Resuming at 17-1 Saturday, Sri Lanka’s hopes of saving the match were dealt a heavy blow when Dinesh Chandimal and Kusal Mendis fell in consecutive overs from Cummins at the start of the day.

After taking a wicket with the final ball of day two, it took Cummins just two balls on day three to get his next wicket, squaring-up the scoreless Chandimal and finding the edge which ballooned to Kurtis Patterson at gully.

In his next over, Cummins teased an attempted drive from Mendis (one), who edged to Joe Burns at second slip.

Lahiru Thirimanne (32) and Roshen Silva (three) briefly stemmed the flow of wickets, before Cummins got his fourth, having Silva caught by Burns in the slips to reduce the tourists to 35-4.

Right on tea, Richardson produced a fast yorker to bowl Dhananjaya de Silva for 14.

Cummins got a deserved fifth wicket but in controversial circumstances when he had Thirimanne adjudged caught behind, a decision upheld by the TV umpire despite no conclusive evidence Thirimanne had edged the ball.

Niroshan Dickwella tried one attacking shot too many off Richardson and holed out to Marcus Harris at square leg, before Cummins’ sixth wicket came from a spectacular catch by Patterson at gully off Dilruwan Perera.

Suranga Lakmal was last man out when he was stumped by Tim Paine for Nathan Lyon’s only wicket of the innings.

Lahiru Kumara did not bat after Sri Lanka team management confirmed Saturday the paceman had torn his hamstring during the second day and is likely to be unavailable for the second Test at Canberra’s Manuka Oval beginning on Friday.

Pat Cummins took a career-best 6-23 to help Australia crush Sri Lanka by an innings and 40 runs inside three days in the series opening day-night Test in Brisbane on Saturday.

Pat Cummins took a career-best 6-23 to help Australia crush Sri Lanka by an innings and 40 runs inside three days in the series opening day-night Test in Brisbane on Saturday. The paceman completed his maiden 10-wicket match haul as Australia bundled out Sri Lanka for 139, five fewer than the tourists had managed in their first innings, to register only their second Test win of the summer at the Gabba. Jhye Richardson claimed two-second innings wickets in his impressive debut with Australia comfortably maintaining their record of not having lost a Test at the Gabba since 1988. Resuming at 17-1 Saturday, Sri Lanka’s hopes of saving the match were dealt a heavy blow when Dinesh Chandimal and Kusal Mendis fell in consecutive overs from Cummins at the start of the day. After taking a wicket with the final ball of day two, it took Cummins just two balls on day three to get his next wicket, squaring-up the scoreless Chandimal and finding the edge which ballooned to Kurtis Patterson at gully. In his next over, Cummins teased an attempted drive from Mendis (one), who edged to Joe Burns at second slip. Lahiru Thirimanne (32) and Roshen Silva (three) briefly stemmed the flow of wickets, before Cummins got his fourth, having Silva caught by Burns in the slips to reduce the tourists to 35-4. Right on tea, Richardson produced a fast yorker to bowl Dhananjaya de Silva for 14. Cummins got a deserved fifth wicket but in controversial circumstances when he had Thirimanne adjudged caught behind, a decision upheld by the TV umpire despite no conclusive evidence Thirimanne had edged the ball. Niroshan Dickwella tried one attacking shot too many off Richardson and holed out to Marcus Harris at square leg, before Cummins’ sixth wicket came from a spectacular catch by Patterson at gully off Dilruwan Perera. Suranga Lakmal was last man out when he was stumped by Tim Paine for Nathan Lyon’s only wicket of the innings. Lahiru Kumara did not bat after Sri Lanka team management confirmed Saturday the paceman had torn his hamstring during the second day and is likely to be unavailable for the second Test at Canberra’s Manuka Oval beginning on Friday.

Australia crush Sri Lanka by innings and 40 runs in 1st Test

Virat Kohli has no peers in ODIs but he has a priceless message for youngsters, a sole focus on limited overs formats shouldn't be an "excuse" for not being able to cope with the challenges of Test cricket.&nbsp;

World's No 1 batsman with 25 Test hundreds warned that youngsters will have mental problems if they don't embrace the pristine form of five-day cricket.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"If we focus too much on shorter formats - yes, they're important - but if we solely focus and look at them as an escape or an excuse to not be in the kind of situations that Test cricket presents to you, then I think there will start being a mental problem with the cricketers coming up," Kohli was quoted as saying by Star Sports.&nbsp;

The Indian skipper, who has played a few defining knocks against world class bowlers like Jimmy Anderson, Stuart Broad and Mitchell Starc during the past year spoke about the hard work that goes into the making of a quality Test player.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"As long as you're willing to wake up every morning for five days and do the hard yards and go do the dirty work - if you're willing to bat for two hours and not score a run for the team - I think that is what people should prepare (youngsters) (for)."&nbsp;&nbsp;

Kohli said the current batch of Indian Test cricketers are trying to set an example for the younger generation.&nbsp;

"That (vision) will require the team to lay out a certain things that needs to be done and for the next lot to keep following. So (when) the next lot that comes in, they have to maintain that vision and then the people coming in will follow."&nbsp;

Virat Kohli has reaffirmed his commitment towards Test cricket, saying he wants India to become a superpower in the game's longest format. 
Number-one ranked India recently won their maiden Test series in Australia under Kohli's leadership.&nbsp;

"I wouldn't say goal but I would rather speak of a vision, which is for India to be a superpower in Test cricket or a very, very strong side in Test cricket in the years to come."&nbsp;&nbsp;

"I think if Indian cricket respects Test cricket, and Indian players respect Test cricket, then Test cricket will stay at the top because of the fan base that we have all over the world."&nbsp;

Kohli was made India captain for the first time in the middle of the 2014-15 Test series in Australia with MS Dhoni announcing a shock retirement.&nbsp;

He credited coach Ravi Shastri for making his job easier.&nbsp;

"Ever since 2014, I think he's (Shastri) one person who's given me honest feedback whenever things required to be altered.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"I remember we sat down (last year). I'd scored a Test century and a fifty in the same game in England, so he called me and he said, as far as batting is concerned, I'm not going to discuss anything with you now because you've done some something which I am proud of and everyone is proud of.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"But as a captain, I need to start thinking how to get the best out of this team and how to tactically be spot on. And that really hit me because I felt like, you know, there's so much more to captaincy than you sometimes think."&nbsp;

Before departing for the Australia tour, Kohli had dismissed the perception that Shastri was "yes-man" to him. He explained again what Shastri brings to the table.&nbsp;

"He one person, because he's done so much commentary, and he's seen the game so much and has played so much himself - just watching the game - he knows where the game is heading.&nbsp;

"So just get getting feedback from him constantly has been the biggest help for me, in terms of moulding my own personality into captaincy. He's someone who has never tried to change me just to be able to fit into the captaincy mode," Kohli added.&nbsp;

Virat Kohli has no peers in ODIs but he has a priceless message for youngsters, a sole focus on limited overs formats shouldn't be an "excuse" for not being able to cope with the challenges of Test cricket.

Virat Kohli has no peers in ODIs but he has a priceless message for youngsters, a sole focus on limited overs formats shouldn't be an "excuse" for not being able to cope with the challenges of Test cricket. World's No 1 batsman with 25 Test hundreds warned that youngsters will have mental problems if they don't embrace the pristine form of five-day cricket. "If we focus too much on shorter formats - yes, they're important - but if we solely focus and look at them as an escape or an excuse to not be in the kind of situations that Test cricket presents to you, then I think there will start being a mental problem with the cricketers coming up," Kohli was quoted as saying by Star Sports. The Indian skipper, who has played a few defining knocks against world class bowlers like Jimmy Anderson, Stuart Broad and Mitchell Starc during the past year spoke about the hard work that goes into the making of a quality Test player. "As long as you're willing to wake up every morning for five days and do the hard yards and go do the dirty work - if you're willing to bat for two hours and not score a run for the team - I think that is what people should prepare (youngsters) (for)." Kohli said the current batch of Indian Test cricketers are trying to set an example for the younger generation. "That (vision) will require the team to lay out a certain things that needs to be done and for the next lot to keep following. So (when) the next lot that comes in, they have to maintain that vision and then the people coming in will follow." Virat Kohli has reaffirmed his commitment towards Test cricket, saying he wants India to become a superpower in the game's longest format. Number-one ranked India recently won their maiden Test series in Australia under Kohli's leadership. "I wouldn't say goal but I would rather speak of a vision, which is for India to be a superpower in Test cricket or a very, very strong side in Test cricket in the years to come." "I think if Indian cricket respects Test cricket, and Indian players respect Test cricket, then Test cricket will stay at the top because of the fan base that we have all over the world." Kohli was made India captain for the first time in the middle of the 2014-15 Test series in Australia with MS Dhoni announcing a shock retirement. He credited coach Ravi Shastri for making his job easier. "Ever since 2014, I think he's (Shastri) one person who's given me honest feedback whenever things required to be altered. "I remember we sat down (last year). I'd scored a Test century and a fifty in the same game in England, so he called me and he said, as far as batting is concerned, I'm not going to discuss anything with you now because you've done some something which I am proud of and everyone is proud of. "But as a captain, I need to start thinking how to get the best out of this team and how to tactically be spot on. And that really hit me because I felt like, you know, there's so much more to captaincy than you sometimes think." Before departing for the Australia tour, Kohli had dismissed the perception that Shastri was "yes-man" to him. He explained again what Shastri brings to the table. "He one person, because he's done so much commentary, and he's seen the game so much and has played so much himself - just watching the game - he knows where the game is heading. "So just get getting feedback from him constantly has been the biggest help for me, in terms of moulding my own personality into captaincy. He's someone who has never tried to change me just to be able to fit into the captaincy mode," Kohli added.

Youngsters focussing solely on shorter formats could have problems playing Test: Virat Kohli

While <a href="http://www.wionews.com/search?q=Virat+Kohli">Virat Kohli</a>'s historic success in Australia has been greeted with jubilation in India, it has also sparked a feverish debate: is he even better than the nation's cricket god <a href="http://www.wionews.com/search?q=Sachin+Tendulkar">Sachin Tendulkar</a>?

Kohli, the world's top-ranked batsman in all three formats of the game, on Monday led India to their first-ever Test series win in Australia, after seven decades of trying.

Already known as "King Kohli" before the tour, there are those who say the Indian captain deserves promotion.

But his Test teammates Hardik Pandya and Lokesh Rahul were mercilessly trolled on Indian social media after saying on a TV chat show that Kohli was a better batsman than Tendulkar.&nbsp;

Watch: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-aus-by-far-my-best-achievement-says-kohli-after-maiden-test-victory-in-australia-188699">'By far my best achievement,' says Kohli after maiden Test victory in Australia</a>

The pair were blasted for being "pathetic" and "cringeworthy" by Twitter users in a mass tirade.&nbsp;

While Tendulkar has maintained a god-like status in the Indian public's eye since his retirement in 2013, he never managed to guide India to a Test series win in Australia.&nbsp;

Kohli, 30, was born a year before Tendulkar made his India debut in 1989. He is the run machine of modern cricket with more 19,000 runs in Test, one-day and T20 games. He last year became the fastest to reach 10,000 runs in 50-over internationals -- beating Tendulkar's record.

Kohli's biographer Vijay Lokapally said there should not be a comparison between players of different generations, but hailed Kohli's achievements.

"As a captain he sets an example with his fitness, his batting and his leadership," Lokapally told AFP.

"His batting is absolutely top class. He doesn't need a certificate from anyone. And there is no better person to lead the Indian team in any format."

He added: "As far as comparisons go, I think it's unfair to disregard the efforts of former players like Vijay Hazare or Sunil Gavaskar and compare eras.

"Gavaskar was a star of his times, Tendulkar ruled his era and Kohli is the new generation star. So they are all champions in their own place."&nbsp;&nbsp;

Pandya and Rahul set off hostilities with Tendulkar fans in their off-the-cuff comments on Indian television aired Sunday.

Tendulkar had been named as the best batsman by a string of luminaries including Don Bradman, Viv Richards and Sunil Gavaskar, one Twitter user noted in response. "Every true cricket fan knows who is best!"

Praise from Pakistan

Few doubt however that Kohli has given the world's number one Test nation an even stronger dominance by completing the 2-1 series win in Australia.

World Cup-winning Kohli rated the triumph his "best achievement" so far, and Indian papers hailed the captain for his "Thunder Down Under".

The Times of India newspaper headlined its report "The Reign Men", while the Hindustan Times said "This win will make India invincible", headlining the opinion of their columnist Ian Chappell.

Even Pakistan's prime minister Imran Khan congratulated India on their historic achievement.&nbsp;

"Congratulations to Virat Kohli and the Indian cricket team for the first ever win by a subcontinent team in a test series in Australia," the former cricketer wrote on his party's Twitter account.

India coach Ravi Shastri said Kohli's leadership skills had "made all the difference" but sought to shoot down all references to deities.

"This is not a team of gods and demigods, seniors or juniors. This is an Indian cricket team that will readily jump off a cliff to win a match for the country," said Shastri.

While Virat Kohli's historic success in Australia has been greeted with jubilation in India, it has also sparked a feverish debate: is he even better than the nation's cricket god Sachin Tendulkar?

While Virat Kohli's historic success in Australia has been greeted with jubilation in India, it has also sparked a feverish debate: is he even better than the nation's cricket god Sachin Tendulkar? Kohli, the world's top-ranked batsman in all three formats of the game, on Monday led India to their first-ever Test series win in Australia, after seven decades of trying. Already known as "King Kohli" before the tour, there are those who say the Indian captain deserves promotion. But his Test teammates Hardik Pandya and Lokesh Rahul were mercilessly trolled on Indian social media after saying on a TV chat show that Kohli was a better batsman than Tendulkar. Watch: 'By far my best achievement,' says Kohli after maiden Test victory in Australia The pair were blasted for being "pathetic" and "cringeworthy" by Twitter users in a mass tirade. While Tendulkar has maintained a god-like status in the Indian public's eye since his retirement in 2013, he never managed to guide India to a Test series win in Australia. Kohli, 30, was born a year before Tendulkar made his India debut in 1989. He is the run machine of modern cricket with more 19,000 runs in Test, one-day and T20 games. He last year became the fastest to reach 10,000 runs in 50-over internationals -- beating Tendulkar's record. Kohli's biographer Vijay Lokapally said there should not be a comparison between players of different generations, but hailed Kohli's achievements. "As a captain he sets an example with his fitness, his batting and his leadership," Lokapally told AFP. "His batting is absolutely top class. He doesn't need a certificate from anyone. And there is no better person to lead the Indian team in any format." He added: "As far as comparisons go, I think it's unfair to disregard the efforts of former players like Vijay Hazare or Sunil Gavaskar and compare eras. "Gavaskar was a star of his times, Tendulkar ruled his era and Kohli is the new generation star. So they are all champions in their own place." Pandya and Rahul set off hostilities with Tendulkar fans in their off-the-cuff comments on Indian television aired Sunday. Tendulkar had been named as the best batsman by a string of luminaries including Don Bradman, Viv Richards and Sunil Gavaskar, one Twitter user noted in response. "Every true cricket fan knows who is best!" Praise from Pakistan Few doubt however that Kohli has given the world's number one Test nation an even stronger dominance by completing the 2-1 series win in Australia. World Cup-winning Kohli rated the triumph his "best achievement" so far, and Indian papers hailed the captain for his "Thunder Down Under". The Times of India newspaper headlined its report "The Reign Men", while the Hindustan Times said "This win will make India invincible", headlining the opinion of their columnist Ian Chappell. Even Pakistan's prime minister Imran Khan congratulated India on their historic achievement. "Congratulations to Virat Kohli and the Indian cricket team for the first ever win by a subcontinent team in a test series in Australia," the former cricketer wrote on his party's Twitter account. India coach Ravi Shastri said Kohli's leadership skills had "made all the difference" but sought to shoot down all references to deities. "This is not a team of gods and demigods, seniors or juniors. This is an Indian cricket team that will readily jump off a cliff to win a match for the country," said Shastri.

Is Virat Kohli really better than Sachin Tendulkar? Nation wants to know

Team India achieved the momentous Test series win on Australian soil since India started touring&nbsp;Australia in 1947-48. The Virat Kohli-led team clinched the series 2-1 after a 71-year wait.

After the fourth and final weather-affected match at the Sydney Cricket Ground finished in a draw, Team India accomplished what former Indian teams were unable to do. With a great performance in both batting and bowling departments, Team India justified their No-1 status in Test ranking.&nbsp;

Despite Cheteshwar Pujara's classic show throughout the series, the rising star was, no doubt, Rishabh Pant.&nbsp;

From on-field banters to hitting an unbeaten century, the 21-year-old gutsy Pant proved that he is the one for the future. Pant, who possesses a good sense of humour, enjoyed a colourful Test series and remained in the headlines.&nbsp;

This Test series will definitely be an important landmark in his career.&nbsp;

Pant scripted history when he became the first Indian wicket-keeper to score a century in Australia. He scored an unbeaten 159 off 189 balls at Sydney to record the highest ever score by an Indian wicket-keeper in an away Test. It was the highest score by an Asian wicket-keeper outside sub-continent. With a total of 350, he was also the second highest run-getter after Pujara in Australia.&nbsp;

Also Read: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/rishabh-pant-attains-career-best-icc-test-ranking-surpasses-dhoni-and-equals-farokh-engineers-feat-188968">Rishabh Pant attains career-best ICC Test ranking, surpasses Dhoni and equals Farokh Engineer’s feat</a>

Besides batting, Pant impressed with his gloves too as he broke the record for most catches - 20 - by an Indian wicketkeeper in a Test series.&nbsp;

When Indian lower batting order struggled to score runs, Pant came at the seventh spot, quickly got into the groove and struck some crisp shots to contribute crucial runs for the team lower down the order.&nbsp;

The type of game Pant has displayed Down Under, has inspired youngsters and fulfilled what is required to build a stronger team.&nbsp;

In his Test debut year, Pant has scored a Test hundred each in England and Australia within months and scored a total of 696 runs.&nbsp;

Apart from Tests, Pant has been outstanding so far in Indian Premier League (IPL) as he scored 1,248 runs in 38 matches with a strike rate of 162.71 and in T20 Internationals he has played 10 matches and amassed 157 runs.&nbsp;

However, Pant is yet to prove himself in the one-day format since he has played just three ODIs scoring 41 runs.&nbsp;

Moreover, he is the top contender to be India's permanent wicket-keeper in all formats of the game when MS Dhoni bids goodbye to ODIs having already pulled out from Tests.

Now, the real "test" for selectors is whether to pick Pant in the World Cup, maybe the upcoming ODI series against Australia and New Zealand will decide where Dhoni will be under the scanner.

May the best man win.

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Team India achieved the momentous Test series win on Australian soil since India started touring Australia in 1947-48. The Virat Kohli-led team clinched the series 2-1 after a 71-year wait.

Team India achieved the momentous Test series win on Australian soil since India started touring Australia in 1947-48. The Virat Kohli-led team clinched the series 2-1 after a 71-year wait. After the fourth and final weather-affected match at the Sydney Cricket Ground finished in a draw, Team India accomplished what former Indian teams were unable to do. With a great performance in both batting and bowling departments, Team India justified their No-1 status in Test ranking. Despite Cheteshwar Pujara's classic show throughout the series, the rising star was, no doubt, Rishabh Pant. From on-field banters to hitting an unbeaten century, the 21-year-old gutsy Pant proved that he is the one for the future. Pant, who possesses a good sense of humour, enjoyed a colourful Test series and remained in the headlines. This Test series will definitely be an important landmark in his career. Pant scripted history when he became the first Indian wicket-keeper to score a century in Australia. He scored an unbeaten 159 off 189 balls at Sydney to record the highest ever score by an Indian wicket-keeper in an away Test. It was the highest score by an Asian wicket-keeper outside sub-continent. With a total of 350, he was also the second highest run-getter after Pujara in Australia. Also Read: Rishabh Pant attains career-best ICC Test ranking, surpasses Dhoni and equals Farokh Engineer’s feat Besides batting, Pant impressed with his gloves too as he broke the record for most catches - 20 - by an Indian wicketkeeper in a Test series. When Indian lower batting order struggled to score runs, Pant came at the seventh spot, quickly got into the groove and struck some crisp shots to contribute crucial runs for the team lower down the order. The type of game Pant has displayed Down Under, has inspired youngsters and fulfilled what is required to build a stronger team. In his Test debut year, Pant has scored a Test hundred each in England and Australia within months and scored a total of 696 runs. Apart from Tests, Pant has been outstanding so far in Indian Premier League (IPL) as he scored 1,248 runs in 38 matches with a strike rate of 162.71 and in T20 Internationals he has played 10 matches and amassed 157 runs. However, Pant is yet to prove himself in the one-day format since he has played just three ODIs scoring 41 runs. Moreover, he is the top contender to be India's permanent wicket-keeper in all formats of the game when MS Dhoni bids goodbye to ODIs having already pulled out from Tests. Now, the real "test" for selectors is whether to pick Pant in the World Cup, maybe the upcoming ODI series against Australia and New Zealand will decide where Dhoni will be under the scanner. May the best man win. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

ICC World Cup 2019: Who should keep wickets for India, Rishabh Pant or MS Dhoni

test-series-0

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

test series-0