<p>Australia comfortably chased a target of 160 runs in 31.2 overs on Thursday (Jan 8) to win the fifth and final Test of the 2025-26 Ashes series. The match was played at the Sydney Cricket Ground. Earlier, England were bowled out for 342 in their second innings, setting Australia a small target on the final day. The home team had no trouble reaching it, as openers Travis Head (29) and Jake Weatherald (34) gave Australia a quick start by putting on 62 runs in just 63 balls. Josh Tongue then dismissed both batters before the lunch.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>After that, captain Steve Smith and Marnus Labuschagne steadied the innings for their team before getting out. In the end, Alex Carey scored 16*, while Cameron Green remained unbeaten on 22 as Australia completed the chase. With this win, Australia claimed their fourth victory of the series and sealed the Ashes 4-1.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read - </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/vijay-hazare-trophy-sarfraz-khan-scripts-history-becomes-fastest-to-achieve-this-record-1767866054137"><strong>Vijay Hazare Trophy: Sarfraz Khan scripts history, becomes fastest to achieve THIS record</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Australia have now won seven of their eight matches in the current World Test Championship (WTC) 2025-27 cycle and continue to lead the points table. Their win in Sydney improved their points percentage from 85.71 to 87.5.<br>&nbsp;</p><p>Whereas, England are struggling in the WTC standings, as they sit seventh on the table, with their points percentage dropping from 35.19 to 31.66. They have won only three of their 10 Tests so far in this cycle. As a result, their chances of finishing in the top two and reaching the WTC final in 2027 are now under serious threat.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Check - </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-starc-to-stokes-meet-top-5-bowlers-with-most-wickets-in-ashes-2025-26-1767873278653"><strong>From Starc to Stokes: Meet top 5 bowlers with most wickets in Ashes 2025-26</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>For England to qualify for the WTC final for the first time, they must win all of their remaining matches and avoid losing any more points.</p><h2><strong>Updated WTC 2025-27 points table after Australia beat England in 5th Ashes&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<figure class="table"><table><tbody><tr><td><strong>Position</strong></td><td><strong>Team</strong></td><td><strong>Matches</strong></td><td><strong>Won</strong></td><td><strong>Lost</strong></td><td><strong>Draw</strong></td><td><strong>Points</strong></td><td><strong>PCT%</strong></td></tr><tr><td>1</td><td>Australia</td><td>8</td><td>7</td><td>1</td><td>–</td><td>84</td><td>87.5</td></tr><tr><td>2</td><td>New Zealand</td><td>3</td><td>2</td><td>–</td><td>1</td><td>28</td><td>77.78</td></tr><tr><td>3</td><td>South Africa</td><td>4</td><td>3</td><td>1</td><td>–</td><td>36</td><td>75.00</td></tr><tr><td>4</td><td>Sri Lanka</td><td>2</td><td>1</td><td>–</td><td>1</td><td>16</td><td>66.67</td></tr><tr><td>5</td><td>Pakistan</td><td>2</td><td>1</td><td>1</td><td>–</td><td>12</td><td>50.00</td></tr><tr><td>6</td><td>India</td><td>9</td><td>4</td><td>4</td><td>1</td><td>52</td><td>48.15</td></tr><tr><td>7</td><td>England</td><td>10</td><td>3</td><td>6</td><td>1</td><td>32</td><td>31.66</td></tr><tr><td>8</td><td>Bangladesh</td><td>2</td><td>0</td><td>1</td><td>1</td><td>4</td><td>16.67</td></tr><tr><td>9</td><td>West Indies</td><td>8</td><td>0</td><td>7</td><td>1</td><td>4</td><td>4.17</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>



For England to qualify for the WTC final for the first time, they must win all of their remaining matches and avoid losing any more points.

Australia comfortably chased a target of 160 runs in 31.2 overs on Thursday (Jan 8) to win the fifth and final Test of the 2025-26 Ashes series. The match was played at the Sydney Cricket Ground. Earlier, England were bowled out for 342 in their second innings, setting Australia a small target on the final day. The home team had no trouble reaching it, as openers Travis Head (29) and Jake Weatherald (34) gave Australia a quick start by putting on 62 runs in just 63 balls. Josh Tongue then dismissed both batters before the lunch. After that, captain Steve Smith and Marnus Labuschagne steadied the innings for their team before getting out. In the end, Alex Carey scored 16*, while Cameron Green remained unbeaten on 22 as Australia completed the chase. With this win, Australia claimed their fourth victory of the series and sealed the Ashes 4-1. Also Read - Vijay Hazare Trophy: Sarfraz Khan scripts history, becomes fastest to achieve THIS record Australia have now won seven of their eight matches in the current World Test Championship (WTC) 2025-27 cycle and continue to lead the points table. Their win in Sydney improved their points percentage from 85.71 to 87.5. Whereas, England are struggling in the WTC standings, as they sit seventh on the table, with their points percentage dropping from 35.19 to 31.66. They have won only three of their 10 Tests so far in this cycle. As a result, their chances of finishing in the top two and reaching the WTC final in 2027 are now under serious threat. Also Check - From Starc to Stokes: Meet top 5 bowlers with most wickets in Ashes 2025-26 For England to qualify for the WTC final for the first time, they must win all of their remaining matches and avoid losing any more points. Updated WTC 2025-27 points table after Australia beat England in 5th Ashes

<p>For England to qualify for the WTC final for the first time, they must win all of their remaining matches and avoid losing any more points.</p>

Updated WTC 2025-27 Points Table: Australia consolidate top spot, England's woes continue

<p>England skipper Ben Stokes suffered an injury on penultimate day of the ongoing Ashes series. Stokes left the field after bowling 10 balls on day 4 (Jan 7) of the final Test in Sydney with Australia still three wickets away from the completion of their first innings. Stokes did not come on to bowl and was not required too as Australa were bowled out after adding 32 runs to their overnight score with final total being 567. It was the longest England had to bowl in an innings - 133.5.</p><h2>Stokes suffers groin injury as Ashes takes toll</h2><p>Stokes bowled more than 100 overs in the series, second most for England after Brydon Carse's 130+ overs. Along with additional duties of batting and leading the side, the workload was bound to take its toll and it did, thankfully in the second last innings England would bowl. Stokes' 15 wickets in the series are also joint-second most England along with Josh Tongue and only behind Carse's 22 scalps.</p><p><strong>Also Watch:</strong> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashes-jacob-bethell-breaks-records-with-scg-hundred-his-family-reaction-wins-hearts-internet-watch-video-1767765633897">Bethell breaks records with SCG ton, his family’s reaction wins hearts</a></p><p>Speaking on his injury and England Cricket Board (ECB) said: "Ben Stokes is currently being assessed for a right adductor complaint. We will provide an update when more information is available."</p><h2>England looking at 1-4 defeat Ashes</h2><p>After Australia took 183-run first innings lead on day 4, England once again failed to capitalize on the strong position they were in. After losing Zak Crawley on team score of 4, Ben Duckett (42) and Jacob Bethell added 81 runs for the second wicket before Michael Neser bowled Duckett. England star Joe Root, who scored 160 runs in first innings, managed only six runs on the second attempt. Harry Brook (42) then added 102 runs for the fourth wicket with Bethell who was not out for 142 at the end of play. England suffered a collapse again after Brook got out and were 302/8 in the second innings, leading by 119 runs with one more day left in the Test and the series which they are trailing 1-3.</p>

Stokes bowled more than 100 overs in the series, second most for England after Brydon Carse's 130+ overs. Along with additional duties of batting and leading the side, the workload was bound to take its toll and it did, thankfully in the second last innings England would bowl.

England skipper Ben Stokes suffered an injury on penultimate day of the ongoing Ashes series. Stokes left the field after bowling 10 balls on day 4 (Jan 7) of the final Test in Sydney with Australia still three wickets away from the completion of their first innings. Stokes did not come on to bowl and was not required too as Australa were bowled out after adding 32 runs to their overnight score with final total being 567. It was the longest England had to bowl in an innings - 133.5. Stokes suffers groin injury as Ashes takes toll Stokes bowled more than 100 overs in the series, second most for England after Brydon Carse's 130+ overs. Along with additional duties of batting and leading the side, the workload was bound to take its toll and it did, thankfully in the second last innings England would bowl. Stokes' 15 wickets in the series are also joint-second most England along with Josh Tongue and only behind Carse's 22 scalps. Also Watch: Bethell breaks records with SCG ton, his family’s reaction wins hearts Speaking on his injury and England Cricket Board (ECB) said: "Ben Stokes is currently being assessed for a right adductor complaint. We will provide an update when more information is available." England looking at 1-4 defeat Ashes After Australia took 183-run first innings lead on day 4, England once again failed to capitalize on the strong position they were in. After losing Zak Crawley on team score of 4, Ben Duckett (42) and Jacob Bethell added 81 runs for the second wicket before Michael Neser bowled Duckett. England star Joe Root, who scored 160 runs in first innings, managed only six runs on the second attempt. Harry Brook (42) then added 102 runs for the fourth wicket with Bethell who was not out for 142 at the end of play. England suffered a collapse again after Brook got out and were 302/8 in the second innings, leading by 119 runs with one more day left in the Test and the series which they are trailing 1-3.

<p>Stokes bowled more than 100 overs in the series, second most for England after Brydon Carse's 130+ overs. Along with additional duties of batting and leading the side, the workload was bound to take its toll and it did, thankfully in the second last innings England would bowl.</p>

Ashes 2025-26: Ben Stokes sustains groin injury as England look at defeat in Sydney Test

<p>The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Monday (Dec 29) rated the pitch used at the Melbourne Cricket Ground for the fourth Ashes Test between England and Australia as "unsatisfactory" and has given the venue one demerit point. Match referee Jeff Crowe said that the surface helped bowlers too much and did not offer a fair contest. The Test ended in less than two days, with England winning by four wickets. It was England’s first Test win in Australia in 15 years. But, Australia still leads the series 3-1.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>"The pitch at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, the venue for the fourth Ashes Test, has been deemed 'Unsatisfactory' with the venue handed one demerit point under the ICC Pitch and Outfield Monitoring Process," read a statement from the ICC.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Match referee Crowe further explained that 20 wickets fell on the first day and 16 on the second, and no batter managed to score even 50 runs. Due to this, the pitch was rated unsatisfactory.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read - </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dough-bracewell-retires-kohli-as-first-ipl-wicket-and-hero-of-nz-s-only-test-win-in-aus-in-40-years-1766995928402"><strong>Doug Bracewell, hero of NZ's only Test win in AUS in last 40 years, retires</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>"The MCG pitch was too much in favour of the bowlers. With 20 wickets falling on the first day, 16 on the second day and no batter even reaching a half-century, the pitch was 'Unsatisfactory' as per the guidelines and the venue gets one demerit point," he stated. &nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Cricket Australia’s Chief of Cricket, James Allsopp, said, “We were disappointed for the fans holding tickets for days three and four, and also the millions of fans excited to watch the action in Australia and around the world, that the pitch did not provide the MCG’s customary balance between bat and ball."</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Pitch curator Matt Page also admitted that he was in a state of shock after seeing how the pitch behaved. He said that he had never seen a Test match like this and hoped he would never experience one like it again.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read - </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/2026-t20-world-cup-pat-cummins-josh-hazlewood-tim-david-in-line-to-be-included-in-australia-squad-1766988748590"><strong>2026 T20 World Cup: Cummins, Hazlewood in line to be included in Australia squad</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Under the ICC’s four-level rating system, “unsatisfactory” is the third level and is used when pitch "does not allow an even contest between bat and ball by favouring the bowlers too much, with too many wicket-taking opportunities for either seam or spin."</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Although England won this match, Australia had already secured the Ashes by winning the first three Tests. The final match of the series will be played in Sydney starting Jan 4.</p>

Pitch curator Matt Page also admitted that he was in a state of shock after seeing how the pitch behaved. He said that he had never seen a Test match like this and hoped he would never experience one like it again.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Monday (Dec 29) rated the pitch used at the Melbourne Cricket Ground for the fourth Ashes Test between England and Australia as "unsatisfactory" and has given the venue one demerit point. Match referee Jeff Crowe said that the surface helped bowlers too much and did not offer a fair contest. The Test ended in less than two days, with England winning by four wickets. It was England’s first Test win in Australia in 15 years. But, Australia still leads the series 3-1. "The pitch at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, the venue for the fourth Ashes Test, has been deemed 'Unsatisfactory' with the venue handed one demerit point under the ICC Pitch and Outfield Monitoring Process," read a statement from the ICC. Match referee Crowe further explained that 20 wickets fell on the first day and 16 on the second, and no batter managed to score even 50 runs. Due to this, the pitch was rated unsatisfactory. Also Read - Doug Bracewell, hero of NZ's only Test win in AUS in last 40 years, retires "The MCG pitch was too much in favour of the bowlers. With 20 wickets falling on the first day, 16 on the second day and no batter even reaching a half-century, the pitch was 'Unsatisfactory' as per the guidelines and the venue gets one demerit point," he stated. Cricket Australia’s Chief of Cricket, James Allsopp, said, “We were disappointed for the fans holding tickets for days three and four, and also the millions of fans excited to watch the action in Australia and around the world, that the pitch did not provide the MCG’s customary balance between bat and ball." Pitch curator Matt Page also admitted that he was in a state of shock after seeing how the pitch behaved. He said that he had never seen a Test match like this and hoped he would never experience one like it again. Also Read - 2026 T20 World Cup: Cummins, Hazlewood in line to be included in Australia squad Under the ICC’s four-level rating system, “unsatisfactory” is the third level and is used when pitch "does not allow an even contest between bat and ball by favouring the bowlers too much, with too many wicket-taking opportunities for either seam or spin." Although England won this match, Australia had already secured the Ashes by winning the first three Tests. The final match of the series will be played in Sydney starting Jan 4.

<p>Pitch curator Matt Page also admitted that he was in a state of shock after seeing how the pitch behaved. He said that he had never seen a Test match like this and hoped he would never experience one like it again.</p>

Ashes 2025-26: ICC labels Melbourne pitch as 'unsatisfactory' after fourth Test ends in two days

<p>England will be hoping to get a bit of payback when they face Australia in the Fourth Ashes Test, starting on Friday (Dec 26) at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. Australia, however, has already sealed the series, leading 3-0 after winning the Third Test in Adelaide by 82 runs and keeping the Ashes.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>For the fourth Ashes, Australia has made a few changes to its team. Steve Smith returns as captain, while Jhye Richardson comes in, replacing Josh Inglis and Nathan Lyon.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>England has also changed its lineup, with Jacob Bethell and Gus Atkinson coming in for Ollie Pope and Jofra Archer. Australia still needs to decide whether Michael Neser or Brendan Doggett will play as the fourth fast bowler instead of Pat Cummins.</p><h2>Australia vs England, 4th Ashes- Live streaming details</h2><p>As the fourth Ashes between Australia and England approaching, here’s a look at the live streaming details for fans in India.</p><h2><strong>When and where is</strong> Australia vs England, 4th Ashes?</h2><p>The fourth Ashes between Australia and England will be held between Friday (December 26) and Tuesday (December 30), at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. The match will start at 5:00 am IST.</p><h2><strong>Where to watch</strong> Australia vs England, 4th Ashes live?</h2><p>The fourth Ashes between Australia and England will be broadcast live on the Star Sports Network in India.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Check - </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/meet-top-5-australian-bowlers-with-most-test-wickets-shane-warne-nathan-lyon-glenn-mcgrath-mitchell-starc-dennis-lillee-1766060391845"><strong>Meet top 5 Australian bowlers with most Test wickets, Starc is fourth, check where Nathan Lyon stands</strong></a></p><h2><strong>Where to livestream</strong> Australia vs England, 4th Ashes?</h2><p>Fans can watch the live streaming of the fourth Ashes between Australia and England on the JioHotstar app and website in India.</p><h2>What time will the toss take place?</h2><p>The toss for the fourth Ashes between Australia and England will be held at 4:30 am IST.</p><h2>Australia vs England, 4th Ashes - Lineups</h2><p><strong>Australia:</strong> Jake Weatherald, Travis Head, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith (captain), Usman Khawaja, Alex Carey (wk), Cameron Green, Mitchell Starc, Scott Boland, Jhye Richardson and Brendan Doggett/Michael Neser</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>England: </strong>Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Jacob Bethell, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Ben Stokes (captain), Jamie Smith (wk), Will Jacks, Gus Atkinson, Brydon Carse and Josh Tongue</p>

As the fourth Ashes between Australia and England approaching, here’s a look at the live streaming details for fans in India.

England will be hoping to get a bit of payback when they face Australia in the Fourth Ashes Test, starting on Friday (Dec 26) at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. Australia, however, has already sealed the series, leading 3-0 after winning the Third Test in Adelaide by 82 runs and keeping the Ashes. For the fourth Ashes, Australia has made a few changes to its team. Steve Smith returns as captain, while Jhye Richardson comes in, replacing Josh Inglis and Nathan Lyon. England has also changed its lineup, with Jacob Bethell and Gus Atkinson coming in for Ollie Pope and Jofra Archer. Australia still needs to decide whether Michael Neser or Brendan Doggett will play as the fourth fast bowler instead of Pat Cummins. Australia vs England, 4th Ashes- Live streaming details As the fourth Ashes between Australia and England approaching, here’s a look at the live streaming details for fans in India. When and where is Australia vs England, 4th Ashes? The fourth Ashes between Australia and England will be held between Friday (December 26) and Tuesday (December 30), at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. The match will start at 5:00 am IST. Where to watch Australia vs England, 4th Ashes live? The fourth Ashes between Australia and England will be broadcast live on the Star Sports Network in India. Also Check - Meet top 5 Australian bowlers with most Test wickets, Starc is fourth, check where Nathan Lyon stands Where to livestream Australia vs England, 4th Ashes? Fans can watch the live streaming of the fourth Ashes between Australia and England on the JioHotstar app and website in India. What time will the toss take place? The toss for the fourth Ashes between Australia and England will be held at 4:30 am IST. Australia vs England, 4th Ashes - Lineups Australia: Jake Weatherald, Travis Head, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith (captain), Usman Khawaja, Alex Carey (wk), Cameron Green, Mitchell Starc, Scott Boland, Jhye Richardson and Brendan Doggett/Michael Neser England: Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Jacob Bethell, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Ben Stokes (captain), Jamie Smith (wk), Will Jacks, Gus Atkinson, Brydon Carse and Josh Tongue

<p>As the fourth Ashes between Australia and England approaching, here’s a look at the live streaming details for fans in India.</p>

AUS vs ENG, 4th Ashes: When and where to watch Australia vs England match live streaming in India?

Josh Hazlewood has been ruled out of the first Ashes Test, leaving Australia's pace bowling seriously depleted for the series opener against England in Perth.

Hazlewood had initially been cleared after suffering a hamstring problem playing for New South Wales on Wednesday, but further scans have revealed a muscle strain.

The Ashes: Josh Hazlewood Ruled Out Of First Test With Hamstring Injury

<p>England and India just featured in perhaps one of the best five-match Test series in recent times, with both sharing honours at the end of it. Barring the result, all matches reaching day five, with almost all getting wrapped up inside the final session, answered queries or even concerns surrounding the format’s future. Even though the full-packed houses at different venues across the UK reflected the country’s love for Test cricket, its board fears that the introduction of a two-tier Test system, currently under work, could see England fall into the second bracket sometime, potentially compromising its age-old rivalries against Australia (Ashes) and India.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Meanwhile, to further improve WTC ahead of the next cycle, which begins in July 2027, the ICC formed a working group last month, led by former New Zealand batter Roger Twose, during its annual conference. Even though the Big 3, including India, England and Australia, have always kept Test cricket paramount, other boards feel pressurised trying to balance the Test cricket calendar with the congested franchise-based T20 leagues worldwide.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashes-hopefuls-sam-konstas-nathan-mcsweeney-in-australia-a-squad-for-red-ball-tour-of-india-1754545218824"><strong>Ashes hopefuls Konstas, McSweeney in Australia-A squad for red-ball tour of India</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Speaking on the same lines, ECB Chairman Richard Thompson rejected this idea, saying the two-tier system is not the answer to improving Test cricket structure, further warning boards of its complications should the ICC introduce it.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>"There's a lot of options that we've got to look at - tiers would be one of them," Thompson said. "We wouldn't want, as England, we may go through a fallow period, and that means, what, we fall into Division Two and we don't play Australia and India? That couldn't happen. There has to be a sense that common sense needs to play out here."</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>On the other hand, Todd Greenberg, Cricket Australia’s (CA) CEO - another influential voice on this subject - feels the top-earning boards must do more than just a bit to support those struggling on and off the field. He urged the Big 3 to step up and help smaller nations' cricket grow, mainly by working on improving their first-class cricket.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>"The real challenge here is what role do we all play," Greenberg said in a chat on SEN Radio on Wednesday (Aug 6). “When I say we, those three countries that [are] putting resources and energy into Test cricket, what role do we have to help others make sure that they step up because it's in our interest to see a strong West Indies, a strong Pakistan, New Zealand, [and] South Africa. We want those countries being strong in this format of the game, but clearly they're going to need help. They can't do it alone. It's incumbent on all of cricket to help.”</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>He, however, admitted being open to the idea of a two-tier Test system should it serve the bigger purpose and involve fewer complications.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>"My open mind is in reference to, if it helps grow the opportunities for those other countries to be stronger, and have better resources in Test match cricket, if it does that, then I'm open for it," he said. "But if it doesn't achieve that, and it actually affects the opposite, then I wouldn't be supportive."</p>

To further improve WTC ahead of the next cycle, which begins in July 2027, the ICC formed a working group last month, led by former New Zealand batter Roger Twose, during its annual conference.

England and India just featured in perhaps one of the best five-match Test series in recent times, with both sharing honours at the end of it. Barring the result, all matches reaching day five, with almost all getting wrapped up inside the final session, answered queries or even concerns surrounding the format’s future. Even though the full-packed houses at different venues across the UK reflected the country’s love for Test cricket, its board fears that the introduction of a two-tier Test system, currently under work, could see England fall into the second bracket sometime, potentially compromising its age-old rivalries against Australia (Ashes) and India. Meanwhile, to further improve WTC ahead of the next cycle, which begins in July 2027, the ICC formed a working group last month, led by former New Zealand batter Roger Twose, during its annual conference. Even though the Big 3, including India, England and Australia, have always kept Test cricket paramount, other boards feel pressurised trying to balance the Test cricket calendar with the congested franchise-based T20 leagues worldwide. Also read | Ashes hopefuls Konstas, McSweeney in Australia-A squad for red-ball tour of India Speaking on the same lines, ECB Chairman Richard Thompson rejected this idea, saying the two-tier system is not the answer to improving Test cricket structure, further warning boards of its complications should the ICC introduce it. "There's a lot of options that we've got to look at - tiers would be one of them," Thompson said. "We wouldn't want, as England, we may go through a fallow period, and that means, what, we fall into Division Two and we don't play Australia and India? That couldn't happen. There has to be a sense that common sense needs to play out here." On the other hand, Todd Greenberg, Cricket Australia’s (CA) CEO - another influential voice on this subject - feels the top-earning boards must do more than just a bit to support those struggling on and off the field. He urged the Big 3 to step up and help smaller nations' cricket grow, mainly by working on improving their first-class cricket. "The real challenge here is what role do we all play," Greenberg said in a chat on SEN Radio on Wednesday (Aug 6). “When I say we, those three countries that [are] putting resources and energy into Test cricket, what role do we have to help others make sure that they step up because it's in our interest to see a strong West Indies, a strong Pakistan, New Zealand, [and] South Africa. We want those countries being strong in this format of the game, but clearly they're going to need help. They can't do it alone. It's incumbent on all of cricket to help.” He, however, admitted being open to the idea of a two-tier Test system should it serve the bigger purpose and involve fewer complications. "My open mind is in reference to, if it helps grow the opportunities for those other countries to be stronger, and have better resources in Test match cricket, if it does that, then I'm open for it," he said. "But if it doesn't achieve that, and it actually affects the opposite, then I wouldn't be supportive."

<p>To further improve WTC ahead of the next cycle, which begins in July 2027, the ICC formed a working group last month, led by former New Zealand batter Roger Twose, during its annual conference.</p>

England fear two-tier Test system could compromise Ashes; Australia ‘open’ to exploring opportunities

<p>England Test skipper Ben Stokes says that it wasn't 'worth the risk' playing as a batter in the final Test against India so he decided to skip it altogether. The England captain was anyway not going to bowl after picking up a shoulder niggle in the fourth Test in Manchester which ended in a draw. Notably, Stokes has takes most wickets in the series from either side and has taken his team to a 2-1 lead heading into the final match. The decision also had an Ashes factor for which England travel to Australia in next 14 weeks time in what could be tenure defining series for Stokes as captain.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read</strong> - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/how-do-india-win-final-test-at-the-oval-vs-england-wicketkeeper-must-score-a-fifty-1753874635568">How do India win final Test at The Oval vs ENG - wicketkeeper must score a fifty</a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“We took as long as we could to make the decision,” Stokes said on his withdrawal from the Test. “I came down [to the Oval] this morning to give myself every chance just to play as a batter – bowling was ruled out as soon as we got the scan results. It’s one of those where weighing up the risk and reward, the risk was way too high. Hearing where it could head to, it wasn’t something that was worth taking a risk on. I wouldn’t expect to put any of my players at risk of an injury like this. So I’ll start rehabbing now and focus on what we’ve got coming up in the winter. Once this series was done I was feet up anyway, so it doesn’t make too much difference.”</p><p>Stokes suffered a grade-three muscle tear in his shoulder after bowling 140 overs in the previous four Tests. The recovery time for such an injury, depending on the severity, is estimated to be between six to 10 weeks - just in time before England travel Down Under. Jacob Bethell replaces Stokes in the playing XI while Ollie Pope will take on the captaincy duties at the Oval.</p><p>England Playing XI vs India for 5th Test: Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope (c), Joe Root, Harry Brook, Jacob Bethell, Jamie Smith (wk), Chris Woakes, Gus Atkinson, Jamie Overton, Josh Tongue</p>

Stokes suffered a grade-three muscle tear in his shoulder after bowling 140 overs in the previous four Tests. The recovery time for such an injury, depending on the severity, is estimated to be between six to 10 weeks - just in time before England travel Down Under for away Ashes.

England Test skipper Ben Stokes says that it wasn't 'worth the risk' playing as a batter in the final Test against India so he decided to skip it altogether. The England captain was anyway not going to bowl after picking up a shoulder niggle in the fourth Test in Manchester which ended in a draw. Notably, Stokes has takes most wickets in the series from either side and has taken his team to a 2-1 lead heading into the final match. The decision also had an Ashes factor for which England travel to Australia in next 14 weeks time in what could be tenure defining series for Stokes as captain. Also Read - How do India win final Test at The Oval vs ENG - wicketkeeper must score a fifty “We took as long as we could to make the decision,” Stokes said on his withdrawal from the Test. “I came down [to the Oval] this morning to give myself every chance just to play as a batter – bowling was ruled out as soon as we got the scan results. It’s one of those where weighing up the risk and reward, the risk was way too high. Hearing where it could head to, it wasn’t something that was worth taking a risk on. I wouldn’t expect to put any of my players at risk of an injury like this. So I’ll start rehabbing now and focus on what we’ve got coming up in the winter. Once this series was done I was feet up anyway, so it doesn’t make too much difference.” Stokes suffered a grade-three muscle tear in his shoulder after bowling 140 overs in the previous four Tests. The recovery time for such an injury, depending on the severity, is estimated to be between six to 10 weeks - just in time before England travel Down Under. Jacob Bethell replaces Stokes in the playing XI while Ollie Pope will take on the captaincy duties at the Oval. England Playing XI vs India for 5th Test: Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope (c), Joe Root, Harry Brook, Jacob Bethell, Jamie Smith (wk), Chris Woakes, Gus Atkinson, Jamie Overton, Josh Tongue

<p>Stokes suffered a grade-three muscle tear in his shoulder after bowling 140 overs in the previous four Tests. The recovery time for such an injury, depending on the severity, is estimated to be between six to 10 weeks - just in time before England travel Down Under for away Ashes.</p>

Ben Stokes reveals Ashes factor behind missing final Test vs India

<p>‘England are coming, they are coming for us big time,’ former Australia gloveman Ian Healy rang warning bells for the Ashes hosts, especially for the top order batters Usman Khawaja and Marnus Labuschagne. After both failed in the just-concluded WTC Final against South Africa, which Australia conceded, former legends feel Usman and Marnus might not hold onto their spots till summer Down Under. Although the upcoming three-match Test series against West Indies provides them with a chance to revive their dying red-ball careers, Healy feels that if both fail, then neither would make it to the Ashes squad against England.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>While Khawaja, 38, received the head coach Andrew McDonald’s backing in the latest reflection of the WTC Final and the upcoming Ashes, Marnus seems to be fighting for his number-three spot in Tests. Once a batting mainstay and the former ranked number-one batter, the right-hander could miss the home Ashes if his numbers don’t improve.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/eng-vs-ind-2025-no-james-anderson-stuart-broad-make-life-easier-for-rishabh-pant-india-tour-of-england-leeds-test-vice-captain-1750323170852"><strong>India tour of England 2025: No Anderson and Broad make life easier for Rishabh Pant</strong></a><br>&nbsp;</p><p>“If you [Khawaja] limp to the end of your career and the last series you’re hanging out for is the Ashes, it’s going to be a nightmare,” Healy said in a chat with SEN radio.&nbsp;<br>&nbsp;</p><p>“England are coming. They’re coming for us big time. They’re picking the right style of bowler, and they’re looking at batsmen, who can prosper in Australian conditions. They are going so specific (with selection) that they are going to be all over us.&nbsp;<br>&nbsp;</p><p>“If you’re not right on the top of your energy levels and your technique, which we’re not at the moment, you’re going to get hurt. In your last series, if you’re not there, if you thought it was going to be fun, it’s a nightmare,” Healy said of the opener Khawaja.<br>&nbsp;</p><p>Meanwhile, Gillespie sounded concerned over Labuschagne’s run of form heading into the Caribbean.<br>&nbsp;</p><p>“If he [Labuschagne] does play in the Caribbean, I think it’s definitely last chance saloon, there’s no doubt about that,” Gillespie said while speaking on SEN radio.<br>&nbsp;</p><p>“I think if he doesn’t perform strongly, then I think he’s at a real risk of not playing in the Ashes.<br>&nbsp;</p><p>“Over the last two years, he’s averaged in the mid-20s, and he’s got only one hundred. But I suspect either one of Usman or Marnus will miss out in the West Indies. That’s my estimation,” he continued.<br>&nbsp;</p><p>Raising his concerns loud and clear, Gillespie feels that with veteran Steve Smith locked in at four and Travis Head at five, and also considering how the returning Cameron Green failed (at number three during the WTC Final), the selectors would have a tough call to fill in the number three slot.&nbsp;<br>&nbsp;</p><p>“I know that Steve Smith’s best position is at four, and I think Travis Head’s best position is at five. I think those guys are pretty set. So, I think ultimately that the selectors have got to decide: Is Josh Inglis the best man to do the job at three, or is Marnus the best man to do the job at three?” Gillespie continued.</p>

Aussie legends ring warning bells for Khawaja, Marnus over Ashes spot

‘England are coming, they are coming for us big time,’ former Australia gloveman Ian Healy rang warning bells for the Ashes hosts, especially for the top order batters Usman Khawaja and Marnus Labuschagne. After both failed in the just-concluded WTC Final against South Africa, which Australia conceded, former legends feel Usman and Marnus might not hold onto their spots till summer Down Under. Although the upcoming three-match Test series against West Indies provides them with a chance to revive their dying red-ball careers, Healy feels that if both fail, then neither would make it to the Ashes squad against England. While Khawaja, 38, received the head coach Andrew McDonald’s backing in the latest reflection of the WTC Final and the upcoming Ashes, Marnus seems to be fighting for his number-three spot in Tests. Once a batting mainstay and the former ranked number-one batter, the right-hander could miss the home Ashes if his numbers don’t improve. Also read | India tour of England 2025: No Anderson and Broad make life easier for Rishabh Pant “If you [Khawaja] limp to the end of your career and the last series you’re hanging out for is the Ashes, it’s going to be a nightmare,” Healy said in a chat with SEN radio. “England are coming. They’re coming for us big time. They’re picking the right style of bowler, and they’re looking at batsmen, who can prosper in Australian conditions. They are going so specific (with selection) that they are going to be all over us. “If you’re not right on the top of your energy levels and your technique, which we’re not at the moment, you’re going to get hurt. In your last series, if you’re not there, if you thought it was going to be fun, it’s a nightmare,” Healy said of the opener Khawaja. Meanwhile, Gillespie sounded concerned over Labuschagne’s run of form heading into the Caribbean. “If he [Labuschagne] does play in the Caribbean, I think it’s definitely last chance saloon, there’s no doubt about that,” Gillespie said while speaking on SEN radio. “I think if he doesn’t perform strongly, then I think he’s at a real risk of not playing in the Ashes. “Over the last two years, he’s averaged in the mid-20s, and he’s got only one hundred. But I suspect either one of Usman or Marnus will miss out in the West Indies. That’s my estimation,” he continued. Raising his concerns loud and clear, Gillespie feels that with veteran Steve Smith locked in at four and Travis Head at five, and also considering how the returning Cameron Green failed (at number three during the WTC Final), the selectors would have a tough call to fill in the number three slot. “I know that Steve Smith’s best position is at four, and I think Travis Head’s best position is at five. I think those guys are pretty set. So, I think ultimately that the selectors have got to decide: Is Josh Inglis the best man to do the job at three, or is Marnus the best man to do the job at three?” Gillespie continued.

<p>While Khawaja, 38, received the head coach Andrew McDonald’s backing in the latest reflection of the WTC Final and the upcoming Ashes, Marnus seems to be fighting for his number-three spot in Tests.</p>

‘It’s going to be a nightmare’: Aussie legends ring warning bells for Khawaja, Marnus over Ashes spot

<p>Australia lost the WTC Final 2025 to South Africa by five wickets, and all returned to the drawing board straightaway. Thanks to a four-day cracker at the Lord’s that ended South Africa's wait for an ICC title, it also exposed issues in the mighty Aussies’ Test team, which now needs reworking before their next Test assignment that starts in ten days in the Caribbean. Bringing back Sam Konstas to the playing XI is the talking point in the dressing room.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The rookie batter made his Test debut against India at the MCG late last year. While his maiden fifty on day one of the Boxing Day Test had the packed crowd at the ‘G’ cheer for him, what made him a bigger star was his approach and stroke play against ace India quick Jasprit Bumrah.<br>Unfazed by Bumrah’s aura and stature, even considering what he did to them in three matches until then, the right-hander scooped him for boundaries for fun.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashes-2025-england-australia-head-coach-andrew-mcdonald-vows-to-protect-usman-khawaja-test-career-despite-his-batting-slump-in-wtc-final-1749989432489"><strong>Australia head coach vows to protect Usman Khawaja's Test career despite batting slump in WTC Final</strong></a><br>&nbsp;</p><p>Although Konstas' shot selection (on a few occasions) was a bit questionable, McDonald confirmed that Sam was part of the conversation for the WTC Final but missed out on the spot to Marnus Labuschagne.<br>&nbsp;</p><p>"He'll be right in the window," McDonald said of Konstas. "He was a big discussion leading into this Test match.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>"We need to bed down that opening combination. We've had a bit of musical chairs there, so now might be the time,” the head coach continued.<br>&nbsp;</p><p>With the West Indies series just around the corner and the home Ashes a few months down the line, Australia is working on finding the right balance across all facets; however, what this upcoming Caribbean tour has to do with the squad selection for the Ashes opener (in Perth), the coach explains.<br>&nbsp;</p><p>"We want to make sure that we are prepared for the Ashes, but does the West Indies have a direct connection to the first Ashes Test match in Perth?" McDonald said. "I'd say it has little. But the people that are on that journey (against the West Indies), I think, are the right people at this stage.<br>"We've got a nice build-up (to the Ashes).<br>&nbsp;</p><p>He also noted that instead of looking at how things pan out on the Caribbean tour, the selectors and the team management will look at the Shield results before sealing spots for the marquee home Ashes.<br>&nbsp;</p><p>"The direct connection to the Ashes would potentially be the first few Shield games (rather) than the West Indies, in my opinion. The connection between each series and the surfaces that you play on can be quite different.<br>&nbsp;</p><p>"We just don't want to play in spite of the conditions getting ready for the Ashes … but you also want to understand where you're heading, so that can be a tricky balance.<br>&nbsp;</p><p>"We're being flexible around our options in the batting order. We've got a group that understands when we're home, it looks a certain way, and when we're away, it can potentially shift,” he continued.&nbsp;</p>

Is Sam Konstas back in reckoning after WTC Final debacle? Coach McDonald answers

Australia lost the WTC Final 2025 to South Africa by five wickets, and all returned to the drawing board straightaway. Thanks to a four-day cracker at the Lord’s that ended South Africa's wait for an ICC title, it also exposed issues in the mighty Aussies’ Test team, which now needs reworking before their next Test assignment that starts in ten days in the Caribbean. Bringing back Sam Konstas to the playing XI is the talking point in the dressing room. The rookie batter made his Test debut against India at the MCG late last year. While his maiden fifty on day one of the Boxing Day Test had the packed crowd at the ‘G’ cheer for him, what made him a bigger star was his approach and stroke play against ace India quick Jasprit Bumrah. Unfazed by Bumrah’s aura and stature, even considering what he did to them in three matches until then, the right-hander scooped him for boundaries for fun. Also read | Australia head coach vows to protect Usman Khawaja's Test career despite batting slump in WTC Final Although Konstas' shot selection (on a few occasions) was a bit questionable, McDonald confirmed that Sam was part of the conversation for the WTC Final but missed out on the spot to Marnus Labuschagne. "He'll be right in the window," McDonald said of Konstas. "He was a big discussion leading into this Test match. "We need to bed down that opening combination. We've had a bit of musical chairs there, so now might be the time,” the head coach continued. With the West Indies series just around the corner and the home Ashes a few months down the line, Australia is working on finding the right balance across all facets; however, what this upcoming Caribbean tour has to do with the squad selection for the Ashes opener (in Perth), the coach explains. "We want to make sure that we are prepared for the Ashes, but does the West Indies have a direct connection to the first Ashes Test match in Perth?" McDonald said. "I'd say it has little. But the people that are on that journey (against the West Indies), I think, are the right people at this stage. "We've got a nice build-up (to the Ashes). He also noted that instead of looking at how things pan out on the Caribbean tour, the selectors and the team management will look at the Shield results before sealing spots for the marquee home Ashes. "The direct connection to the Ashes would potentially be the first few Shield games (rather) than the West Indies, in my opinion. The connection between each series and the surfaces that you play on can be quite different. "We just don't want to play in spite of the conditions getting ready for the Ashes … but you also want to understand where you're heading, so that can be a tricky balance. "We're being flexible around our options in the batting order. We've got a group that understands when we're home, it looks a certain way, and when we're away, it can potentially shift,” he continued.

<p>Thanks to a four-day cracker at the Lord’s that ended South Africa's wait for an ICC title, it also exposed issues in the mighty Aussies’ Test team, which now needs reworking before their next Test assignment that starts in ten days in the Caribbean.</p>

WI vs AUS 2025: Is Konstas back in reckoning after WTC Final debacle? McDonald answers

<p>Australia head coach Andrew McDonald is not ready to drop guards for under-fire opener and batting great Usman Khawaja despite his twin failures in the just-concluded WTC Final at the Lord’s. With Australia failing to defend their Test title against the Proteas, who claimed their maiden crown with a five-wicket win, the questions began to rise on Khawaja’s future, considering his dip in form and age; McDonald, however, has backed him to retain his spot for the home Ashes later this year.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>With Australia set to host England for five Tests, and given their ageing squad at the helm, the head coach stressed the need to work on acquiring new talent in the batting order but clarified his stance on Khawaja’s role at the top. Though Marnus Labuschagne also received his backing, with McDonald calling him a ‘significant part of the team’s future’, his words for Khawaja were equally motivating, saying what he brings to the table at his best is irreplaceable.<br>&nbsp;</p><p>While the Bumrah-led Indian pace attack troubled Khawaja throughout the last home summer, the Aussie opener bounced back with his career-best 232 against Sri Lanka in the away series next, proving he still has plenty to offer. However, collecting just six runs across two innings against South Africa again brought his place in jeopardy, but McDonald seems unbothered by that.<br>&nbsp;</p><p>"He's on contract, he's an important player," McDonald said of Khawaja. "He gives us stability at his best at the top. And we like to look at our players at their best.<br>&nbsp;</p><p>"No doubt, a couple of failures here and people then start to talk about maybe it's the end. I don't see an end date with the way he's training, the way he's preparing, the way he's moving. He went back to Shield cricket and got 100 last [season]. So I think he's got plenty of runs left in him. It'll come down to his inner drive and the way he prepares.<br>&nbsp;</p><p>"It was a bit the same with Davey as well. The way he moved, we saw some positives in that. We knew that the runs were around the corner. We feel as though Usman's got a big part to play,” he continued.</p><h2>Who, alongside Khawaja?<br>&nbsp;</h2><p>Australia tried several options in their past three series. While they started with rookie players like Nathan McSweeney and Sam Konstas, with both vacating that spot sooner, Australia tried Travis Head in Sri Lanka before handing a new role to number three Labuschagne for the WTC Final. Much to their worries, everyone failed. Commenting on the same while considering all options, McDonald said,&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>"I'd like to think that we're being flexible around our options in the batting order. Other people are judging that and saying that's unsettling. I think we've got a group that understands when we're home, it looks a certain way, when we're away, it can potentially shift."<br>&nbsp;</p><p>Meanwhile, Australia’s next Test assignment is a three-match away tour of the West Indies starting June 25 in Barbados.&nbsp;</p>

McDonald vows to protect Khawaja's career despite his batting slump in WTC Final

Australia head coach Andrew McDonald is not ready to drop guards for under-fire opener and batting great Usman Khawaja despite his twin failures in the just-concluded WTC Final at the Lord’s. With Australia failing to defend their Test title against the Proteas, who claimed their maiden crown with a five-wicket win, the questions began to rise on Khawaja’s future, considering his dip in form and age; McDonald, however, has backed him to retain his spot for the home Ashes later this year. With Australia set to host England for five Tests, and given their ageing squad at the helm, the head coach stressed the need to work on acquiring new talent in the batting order but clarified his stance on Khawaja’s role at the top. Though Marnus Labuschagne also received his backing, with McDonald calling him a ‘significant part of the team’s future’, his words for Khawaja were equally motivating, saying what he brings to the table at his best is irreplaceable. While the Bumrah-led Indian pace attack troubled Khawaja throughout the last home summer, the Aussie opener bounced back with his career-best 232 against Sri Lanka in the away series next, proving he still has plenty to offer. However, collecting just six runs across two innings against South Africa again brought his place in jeopardy, but McDonald seems unbothered by that. "He's on contract, he's an important player," McDonald said of Khawaja. "He gives us stability at his best at the top. And we like to look at our players at their best. "No doubt, a couple of failures here and people then start to talk about maybe it's the end. I don't see an end date with the way he's training, the way he's preparing, the way he's moving. He went back to Shield cricket and got 100 last [season]. So I think he's got plenty of runs left in him. It'll come down to his inner drive and the way he prepares. "It was a bit the same with Davey as well. The way he moved, we saw some positives in that. We knew that the runs were around the corner. We feel as though Usman's got a big part to play,” he continued. Who, alongside Khawaja? Australia tried several options in their past three series. While they started with rookie players like Nathan McSweeney and Sam Konstas, with both vacating that spot sooner, Australia tried Travis Head in Sri Lanka before handing a new role to number three Labuschagne for the WTC Final. Much to their worries, everyone failed. Commenting on the same while considering all options, McDonald said, "I'd like to think that we're being flexible around our options in the batting order. Other people are judging that and saying that's unsettling. I think we've got a group that understands when we're home, it looks a certain way, when we're away, it can potentially shift." Meanwhile, Australia’s next Test assignment is a three-match away tour of the West Indies starting June 25 in Barbados.

<p>While the Bumrah-led Indian pace attack troubled Khawaja throughout the last home summer, the Aussie opener bounced back with his career-best 232 against Sri Lanka in the away series next, proving he still has plenty to offer.</p>

Australia head coach vows to protect Usman Khawaja's Test career despite batting slump in WTC Final

<p>Australia claimed a 43-run win in the second Ashes Test at Lord’s to lead 2-0 in the five-match series. The enthralling on-field rivalry between England and Australia did amaze cricket fans but the Lord’s Test was not bereft of controversy. The manner in which England wicketkeeper Jonny Bairstow was dismissed in the second innings on the final day of the Test match triggered a huge debate. Bairstow walked out of his crease before the ball was dead and Australia wicketkeeper Alex Carey made full use of the opportunity by producing a direct hit at the striker's end. The third umpire, eventually, adjudged Bairstow to be out. The highly contentious style in which Bairstow was dismissed became a bone of contention and former India cricketer Gautam Gambhir has now shared his stance on this. Taking a dig at the Australian cricket team, the World Cup-winning batter tweeted, “Hey sledgers. Does spirit of the game logic apply to you or is it just for Indians?”</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Hey sledgers_.does spirit of the game logic apply to u or is it just for Indians?</p>
— Gautam Gambhir (@GautamGambhir) <a href="https://twitter.com/GautamGambhir/status/1675531239095402496?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 2, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/golf-rickie-fowler-wins-in-detroit-to-end-four-year-long-drought-611400">Golf: Rickie Fowler wins in Detroit to end four-year long drought</a></strong></p>

<h2>A key wicket at Lord’s Test</h2>

<p>Jonny Bairstow’s dismissal turned out to be a key factor in the context of the game. Bairstow, who faced 22 deliveries in the second innings of the Lord’s Test, was dismissed for 10. Following the game, England skipper Ben Stokes was asked about Bairstow's dismissal. Criticising Australia’s conduct, the star English all-rounder said that he would have never done anything like this to win a match.</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/several-big-absentees-as-bcci-announces-indian-womens-limited-over-squads-for-bangladesh-series-611404">Several big absentees as BCCI announces Indian women's limited-over squads for Bangladesh series</a></strong></p>

<h2>How did Ben Stokes react?</h2>

<p>“I am not disputing the fact it is out because it is out. If the shoe was on the other foot I would have put more pressure on the umpires and asked whether they had called over and had a deep think about the whole spirit of the game and would I want to do something like that. For Australia, it was the match-winning moment. Would I want to win a game in that manner? The answer for me is no,” Ben Stokes said at the post-match presentation. Chasing a target of 371, the Stokes-led side fell short by 43 runs. The English captain came up with a brilliant knock of 155 to keep his side alive in the contest. But Stokes’ brilliance, ultimately, proved to be inadequate. Skipper Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood and Mitchell Starc bagged three wickets each to bowl out the hosts for 327.</p>


Australia claimed a 43-run win in the second Ashes Test at Lord’s to lead 2-0 in the five-match series. The enthralling on-field rivalry between England and Australia did amaze cricket fans but the Lord’s Test was not bereft of controversy.

Australia claimed a 43-run win in the second Ashes Test at Lord’s to lead 2-0 in the five-match series. The enthralling on-field rivalry between England and Australia did amaze cricket fans but the Lord’s Test was not bereft of controversy. The manner in which England wicketkeeper Jonny Bairstow was dismissed in the second innings on the final day of the Test match triggered a huge debate. Bairstow walked out of his crease before the ball was dead and Australia wicketkeeper Alex Carey made full use of the opportunity by producing a direct hit at the striker's end. The third umpire, eventually, adjudged Bairstow to be out. The highly contentious style in which Bairstow was dismissed became a bone of contention and former India cricketer Gautam Gambhir has now shared his stance on this. Taking a dig at the Australian cricket team, the World Cup-winning batter tweeted, “Hey sledgers. Does spirit of the game logic apply to you or is it just for Indians?” \ Hey sledgers_.does spirit of the game logic apply to u or is it just for Indians? — Gautam Gambhir (@GautamGambhir) July 2, 2023 × Also read: Golf: Rickie Fowler wins in Detroit to end four-year long drought A key wicket at Lord’s Test Jonny Bairstow’s dismissal turned out to be a key factor in the context of the game. Bairstow, who faced 22 deliveries in the second innings of the Lord’s Test, was dismissed for 10. Following the game, England skipper Ben Stokes was asked about Bairstow's dismissal. Criticising Australia’s conduct, the star English all-rounder said that he would have never done anything like this to win a match. Also read: Several big absentees as BCCI announces Indian women's limited-over squads for Bangladesh series How did Ben Stokes react? “I am not disputing the fact it is out because it is out. If the shoe was on the other foot I would have put more pressure on the umpires and asked whether they had called over and had a deep think about the whole spirit of the game and would I want to do something like that. For Australia, it was the match-winning moment. Would I want to win a game in that manner? The answer for me is no,” Ben Stokes said at the post-match presentation. Chasing a target of 371, the Stokes-led side fell short by 43 runs. The English captain came up with a brilliant knock of 155 to keep his side alive in the contest. But Stokes’ brilliance, ultimately, proved to be inadequate. Skipper Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood and Mitchell Starc bagged three wickets each to bowl out the hosts for 327.

Ashes 2023: Gautam Gambhir slams Australia over Jonny Bairstow's dismissal at Lord’s Test

<p>The England cricket team find themselves in a precarious situation having lost the second Ashes Test by 43 runs at Lord’s. Chasing a target of 371, the hosts were bowled out for 327 on day five of the Test match. England skipper Ben Stokes pulled off a tremendous knock of 155 runs and he was the last man standing for his side. Stokes’s brilliance might have gone in vain but the star all-rounder’s phenomenal knock was praised by many. Virat Kohli was one of many who lavished huge praise on Stokes. Applauding Stokes’ terrific knock, the former India captain tweeted, “I wasn’t joking about calling Ben Stokes the most competitive bloke I’ve played against. Innings of the highest quality but Australia is too good at the moment.”</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">I wasn't joking about calling Ben Stokes the most competitive bloke I've played against. Innings of the highest quality but Australia is too good at the moment _</p>
— Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli/status/1675524860926377984?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 2, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2>Ravichandran Ashwin tweets</h2>

<p>The number one Test bowler in the world, Ravichandran Ashwin, also lauded Ben Stokes on Twitter. “May eventually turn out to be an innings in a losing cause, but Ben Stokes and his stomach for a fight is unreal,” the Indian spinner tweeted.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">May eventually turn out to be an innings in a losing cause, but Ben Stokes and his stomach for a fight is unreal. ___ <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ashes2023?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ashes2023</a></p>
— Ashwin __ (@ashwinravi99) <a href="https://twitter.com/ashwinravi99/status/1675510419232894977?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 2, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australias-spin-giant-nathan-lyon-ruled-out-of-ashes-with-calf-injury-todd-murphy-likely-to-play-3rd-test-611290"> Australia's spin giant Nathan Lyon ruled out of Ashes with calf injury, Todd Murphy likely to play 3rd Test</a></strong></p>

<h2>Ben Stokes’ brilliance</h2>

<p>In the second innings, Ben Stokes came out to bat at the fall of the fourth wicket after England’s top order failed miserably. Ben Duckett offered a good support to Stokes. But Duckett once again failed to breach the three-digit mark having been dismissed for 83. Stokes’ superb counter-attacking style of batting did change the momentum. A panic was seen in the Australian camp after Stokes’ change of gear. It seemed that the English skipper would succeed in guiding his side to a remarkable win at Lord’s. But Josh Hazlewood, eventually, sent Stokes back to the dressing room in the 73rd over of the second innings. Stokes’ knock comprised nine sixes and as many boundaries. Stokes’ century also turned out to be an England captain’s first Ashes ton at the Lord’s since Andrew Strauss' 161 in 2009.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/odi-world-cup-pcb-writes-to-shehbaz-sharif-government-to-seek-travel-clearance-for-india-611187">ODI World Cup: PCB writes to Shehbaz Sharif government to seek travel clearance for India</a></strong></p>

<p>Josh Hazlewood, Pat Cummins and Mitchell Starc picked up three wickets each to earn a sensational victory for the visitors. England’s James Anderson and Josh Tongue added 25 runs for the final wicket but it could hardly do enough to deter Australia from claiming a lead of 2-0 in the five-match Ashes. The third Test is scheduled to start from July 6 at Headingley in Leeds.</p>


The England cricket team find themselves in a precarious situation having lost the second Ashes Test by 43 runs at Lord’s. Chasing a target of 371, the hosts were bowled out for 327 on day five of the Test match.

The England cricket team find themselves in a precarious situation having lost the second Ashes Test by 43 runs at Lord’s. Chasing a target of 371, the hosts were bowled out for 327 on day five of the Test match. England skipper Ben Stokes pulled off a tremendous knock of 155 runs and he was the last man standing for his side. Stokes’s brilliance might have gone in vain but the star all-rounder’s phenomenal knock was praised by many. Virat Kohli was one of many who lavished huge praise on Stokes. Applauding Stokes’ terrific knock, the former India captain tweeted, “I wasn’t joking about calling Ben Stokes the most competitive bloke I’ve played against. Innings of the highest quality but Australia is too good at the moment.” I wasn't joking about calling Ben Stokes the most competitive bloke I've played against. Innings of the highest quality but Australia is too good at the moment _ — Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) July 2, 2023 × Ravichandran Ashwin tweets The number one Test bowler in the world, Ravichandran Ashwin, also lauded Ben Stokes on Twitter. “May eventually turn out to be an innings in a losing cause, but Ben Stokes and his stomach for a fight is unreal,” the Indian spinner tweeted. May eventually turn out to be an innings in a losing cause, but Ben Stokes and his stomach for a fight is unreal. ___ #Ashes2023 — Ashwin __ (@ashwinravi99) July 2, 2023 × Also read: Australia's spin giant Nathan Lyon ruled out of Ashes with calf injury, Todd Murphy likely to play 3rd Test Ben Stokes’ brilliance In the second innings, Ben Stokes came out to bat at the fall of the fourth wicket after England’s top order failed miserably. Ben Duckett offered a good support to Stokes. But Duckett once again failed to breach the three-digit mark having been dismissed for 83. Stokes’ superb counter-attacking style of batting did change the momentum. A panic was seen in the Australian camp after Stokes’ change of gear. It seemed that the English skipper would succeed in guiding his side to a remarkable win at Lord’s. But Josh Hazlewood, eventually, sent Stokes back to the dressing room in the 73rd over of the second innings. Stokes’ knock comprised nine sixes and as many boundaries. Stokes’ century also turned out to be an England captain’s first Ashes ton at the Lord’s since Andrew Strauss' 161 in 2009. Also read: ODI World Cup: PCB writes to Shehbaz Sharif government to seek travel clearance for India Josh Hazlewood, Pat Cummins and Mitchell Starc picked up three wickets each to earn a sensational victory for the visitors. England’s James Anderson and Josh Tongue added 25 runs for the final wicket but it could hardly do enough to deter Australia from claiming a lead of 2-0 in the five-match Ashes. The third Test is scheduled to start from July 6 at Headingley in Leeds.

Ashes 2023: Virat Kohli praises Ben Stokes’ knock at Lord's Test

<p>The action-packed turn of events which take place on the field between England and Australia make the Ashes one of the most highly anticipated series in cricket. But, it is not the on-field rivalry between the two opponents which make the Ashes a nerve-racking championship for fans. The heated exchange of words and fiery altercation between the two nations manage to grab attention equally. Following the completion of the first Ashes Test, Australian media outlet Fox Cricket branded English fast bowler Ollie Robinson as the "No. 1 villain." Taking a cheeky dig at Australian media, Robinson’s England teammate Stuart Broad has now come up with a remarkable response. “'No1 Villain?!' I can’t have lost that tag already can I?! Disappointing,” Broad replied.</p>

<p>The conversation did not stop there and Fox Cricket responded to Broad’s comment by saying, “You'll always be No. 1 in our hearts Stuart.”</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">“No1 Villain?!” I can’t have lost that tag already can I?! Disappointing</p>
— Stuart Broad (@StuartBroad8) <a href="https://twitter.com/StuartBroad8/status/1671787438098767872?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 22, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">You'll always be No. 1 in our hearts Stuart _</p>
— Fox Cricket (@FoxCricket) <a href="https://twitter.com/FoxCricket/status/1671997547211292674?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 22, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>The 2013 controversy</p>

<p>It has to be noted that back in 2013, the Australian press had regarded Stuart Broad as a "public enemy." Broad became the prime target of the Australian media after the English pacer refused to walk following his dismissal in the first Ashes Test. The incident triggered a massive row and Broad was much criticised by the Australian media outlets.</p>

<p>England fast bowler Ollie Robinson now seems to have infuriated the Australian press, thanks to his animated reactions on the field. After dismissing Usman Khawaja on the third day of the first Test, Robinson was reportedly heard using cuss words, which were aimed at the Australian batter. Robinson’s act was widely criticised by many former cricketers and experts. Former Australia cricketers Ricky Ponting and Matthew Hayden lashed out at Robinson for his highly contentious behaviour.</p>

<p>Ricky Ponting’s criticism</p>

<p>“As I said after Ollie Robinson said what he said, this England cricket team hasn't played against Australia and they'll find out pretty quickly what playing Ashes cricket and playing against a good Australian cricket team is all about. And if Ollie Robinson hasn't learned that already after last week, then he's a slow learner,” ex-Australia skipper Ricky Ponting told The ICC Review podcast. Hayden, on the other hand, termed Robinson as a "forgettable cricketer."</p>

<p>Coming back to on-field developments, Australia secured a 1-0 lead in the Ashes after defeating England by two wickets in the opening Test. The second match is scheduled to start from June 28 at the Lord’s.</p>


Following the completion of the first Ashes Test, Australian media outlet Fox Cricket branded English fast bowler Ollie Robinson as a ‘No. 1 villain.’ Taking a cheeky dig at Australian media, Stuart Broad came up with an incredible response.

The action-packed turn of events which take place on the field between England and Australia make the Ashes one of the most highly anticipated series in cricket. But, it is not the on-field rivalry between the two opponents which make the Ashes a nerve-racking championship for fans. The heated exchange of words and fiery altercation between the two nations manage to grab attention equally. Following the completion of the first Ashes Test, Australian media outlet Fox Cricket branded English fast bowler Ollie Robinson as the "No. 1 villain." Taking a cheeky dig at Australian media, Robinson’s England teammate Stuart Broad has now come up with a remarkable response. “'No1 Villain?!' I can’t have lost that tag already can I?! Disappointing,” Broad replied. The conversation did not stop there and Fox Cricket responded to Broad’s comment by saying, “You'll always be No. 1 in our hearts Stuart.” “No1 Villain?!” I can’t have lost that tag already can I?! Disappointing — Stuart Broad (@StuartBroad8) June 22, 2023 × You'll always be No. 1 in our hearts Stuart _ — Fox Cricket (@FoxCricket) June 22, 2023 × The 2013 controversy It has to be noted that back in 2013, the Australian press had regarded Stuart Broad as a "public enemy." Broad became the prime target of the Australian media after the English pacer refused to walk following his dismissal in the first Ashes Test. The incident triggered a massive row and Broad was much criticised by the Australian media outlets. England fast bowler Ollie Robinson now seems to have infuriated the Australian press, thanks to his animated reactions on the field. After dismissing Usman Khawaja on the third day of the first Test, Robinson was reportedly heard using cuss words, which were aimed at the Australian batter. Robinson’s act was widely criticised by many former cricketers and experts. Former Australia cricketers Ricky Ponting and Matthew Hayden lashed out at Robinson for his highly contentious behaviour. Ricky Ponting’s criticism “As I said after Ollie Robinson said what he said, this England cricket team hasn't played against Australia and they'll find out pretty quickly what playing Ashes cricket and playing against a good Australian cricket team is all about. And if Ollie Robinson hasn't learned that already after last week, then he's a slow learner,” ex-Australia skipper Ricky Ponting told The ICC Review podcast. Hayden, on the other hand, termed Robinson as a "forgettable cricketer." Coming back to on-field developments, Australia secured a 1-0 lead in the Ashes after defeating England by two wickets in the opening Test. The second match is scheduled to start from June 28 at the Lord’s.

Ashes 2023: Stuart Broad’s cheeky jibe at Australian media ahead of 2nd Test

The First test of the Ashes is set for a grandstand finish. England need seven wickets for victory, while Australia require 174 runs on the final day at Edgbaston. Who will draw first blood in the five-match series?

Shades of 2005 as Edgbaston test set for grandstand finish | WION Sports Xtra

<p>Australia batter Usman Khawaja came up with a fabulous knock of 141 in the first innings of the opening Ashes Test at the Edgbaston. Khawaja’s brilliant century helped the Aussies in securing a seven-run lead against England. English bowlers worked hard to pick up the wicket of Khawaja and it required a unique field set-up, deployed by Ben Stokes, to dismiss the southpaw. Khawaja was batting on 141 when the English skipper decided to set, what can be called as an umbrella field. Former Australia captain Ricky Ponting has now opened up on Stokes’ much-talked-about ploy. The World Cup-winning captain revealed that he had never seen such kind of a field placement.</p>

<p>"I don't think I've ever seen a field like that in Test cricket before. There was just an umbrella of fielders around in front of the batsman's face. And it was all about bowling a couple of slower balls and being able to bowl a yorker. And sure enough, Khawaja used his feet, gave himself some room, gave up his stumps, and the yorker knocked his off stump out of the ground. It's fantastic stuff. It's really refreshing for the Test game to see a team play this way and a captain happy to try everything he possibly can," Ricky Ponting was quoted as saying by the International Cricket Council (ICC).</p>

<p>Three close-in players were placed on the on-side and as many fielders were put on the other side by England captain Ben Stokes. The unorthodox field placement did the trick as Usman Khawaja tried to breach the attacking set-up but the 36-year-old failed in doing so. Khawaja ended up losing his wicket after failing to read Ollie Robinson’s yorker. Khawaja’s spectacular innings comprised 14 boundaries and three sixes. This was Khawaja’s first Test ton on English soil. Overall, he has so far notched up 15 centuries in red-ball cricket. Stuart Broad and Robinson claimed three wickets each in the first innings.</p>

<p>England, in the second innings, folded for 273 setting up a target of 281 for Australia. Skipper Pat Cummins and Nathan Lyon scalped four wickets each in the second innings for the visitors. Australia ended the fourth day’s play at 107/3. Aussies will need 174 more runs to secure 1-0 lead in the Ashes Test series. At Stumps, Usman Khawaja was unbeaten on 34. Scott Boland, on the other hand, is batting on five.</p>


English bowlers worked hard to pick up the wicket of Usman Khawaja and it required a unique field set-up deployed by Ben Stokes to dismiss the southpaw. Ricky Ponting revealed that he had never seen such kind of a field placement.

Australia batter Usman Khawaja came up with a fabulous knock of 141 in the first innings of the opening Ashes Test at the Edgbaston. Khawaja’s brilliant century helped the Aussies in securing a seven-run lead against England. English bowlers worked hard to pick up the wicket of Khawaja and it required a unique field set-up, deployed by Ben Stokes, to dismiss the southpaw. Khawaja was batting on 141 when the English skipper decided to set, what can be called as an umbrella field. Former Australia captain Ricky Ponting has now opened up on Stokes’ much-talked-about ploy. The World Cup-winning captain revealed that he had never seen such kind of a field placement. "I don't think I've ever seen a field like that in Test cricket before. There was just an umbrella of fielders around in front of the batsman's face. And it was all about bowling a couple of slower balls and being able to bowl a yorker. And sure enough, Khawaja used his feet, gave himself some room, gave up his stumps, and the yorker knocked his off stump out of the ground. It's fantastic stuff. It's really refreshing for the Test game to see a team play this way and a captain happy to try everything he possibly can," Ricky Ponting was quoted as saying by the International Cricket Council (ICC). Three close-in players were placed on the on-side and as many fielders were put on the other side by England captain Ben Stokes. The unorthodox field placement did the trick as Usman Khawaja tried to breach the attacking set-up but the 36-year-old failed in doing so. Khawaja ended up losing his wicket after failing to read Ollie Robinson’s yorker. Khawaja’s spectacular innings comprised 14 boundaries and three sixes. This was Khawaja’s first Test ton on English soil. Overall, he has so far notched up 15 centuries in red-ball cricket. Stuart Broad and Robinson claimed three wickets each in the first innings. England, in the second innings, folded for 273 setting up a target of 281 for Australia. Skipper Pat Cummins and Nathan Lyon scalped four wickets each in the second innings for the visitors. Australia ended the fourth day’s play at 107/3. Aussies will need 174 more runs to secure 1-0 lead in the Ashes Test series. At Stumps, Usman Khawaja was unbeaten on 34. Scott Boland, on the other hand, is batting on five.

Ricky Ponting impressed with Ben Stokes’ umbrella field in the Ashes

England Pacer Ollie Robinson has defended his foul-mouthed celebration after dismissing Australian Batter Usman Khawaja. The Ashes has lived up to the hype so far and Australia are at 28/2 after the third day, trailing England by 35 runs.

The Ashes: Robinson defends foul-mouthed celebration | WION Sports Xtra

<p>The Edgbaston pitch was the central point of discussions after more than 400 runs were scored on the opening day of the first match of the Ashes. England declared their innings after putting up a total of 393 on Friday. England’s total also turned out to be the second-highest by any team on day one of an Ashes match since the World War II. The proceedings of day one’s play prompted fans to question the nature of the pitch. Former India cricketer Wasim Jaffer also took a cheeky dig at the Edgbaston pitch. Questioning the nature of the pitch, the ex-India batter shared an edited picture of the ground along with a photo of the highway. “Closer look at the Edgbaston pitch Ashes 2023,” Jaffer tweeted.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Closer look at the Edgbaston pitch <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ashes23?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ashes23</a> <a href="https://t.co/0gNSMWdPim">pic.twitter.com/0gNSMWdPim</a></p>
— Wasim Jaffer (@WasimJaffer14) <a href="https://twitter.com/WasimJaffer14/status/1669710286671204352?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 16, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>&nbsp;How Fans Are Reacting To The Picture</strong></h2>

<p>The picture went viral soon and cricket fans did not waste much time in reacting to the cheeky post.</p>

<p>“I hope Michael Vaughan will not complain about this pitch. Or ICC will not rate for the flat road,” wrote one Twitter user.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">I hope <a href="https://twitter.com/MichaelVaughan?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MichaelVaughan</a> will not complain about this pitch? Or <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ICC</a> will not rate for the flat road😅😛</p>
— Vipesh Patel (@VipeshPatel27) <a href="https://twitter.com/VipeshPatel27/status/1669712968987164673?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 16, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>Recalling Team India’s World Test Championship (WTC) final loss, this person inquired, “Why did they make a green one for us?”</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Why did they make a green one for us ?</p>
— Harpreet Singh (@Harpreetlaw) <a href="https://twitter.com/Harpreetlaw/status/1669724952533291009?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 16, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>Another social media user felt that the pitch at Edgbaston is ‘batting paradise.”</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Batting paradise</p>
— Mohali to Melbourne 82* (@MelbourneNT82) <a href="https://twitter.com/MelbourneNT82/status/1669712084018536450?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 16, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>Talking about England cricket team’s attacking style of playing, another person replied, “Absolute road, didn’t even swing 1 ball. This is how Bazball works.”</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Absolute road, didn’t even swing 1 ball. This is how bazball works.</p>
— Sudip Maji (@cool_msudip) <a href="https://twitter.com/cool_msudip/status/1669773971708076033?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 16, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>Another Twitter user sarcastically commented, “They want Bazball and these pitches are ok, we want spin but our pitches are not ok.”</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">They want bazzball and these pitch are ok, we want spin but our pitches are not ok.</p>
— Jyotiraditya Pradhan (@Jyotira74697632) <a href="https://twitter.com/Jyotira74697632/status/1669729183491301376?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 16, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>Ashes 2023 1st Test: Current Scene&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Winning the toss, English skipper Ben Stokes decided to bat first. Joe Root showcased a tremendous batting to bring up his 30th Test century yesterday. With this, the former England captain succeeded in ending his eight-year wait for an Ashes ton. England wicketkeeper Jonny Bairstow pulled off a crucial knock of 78 in as many deliveries. Root remained unbeaten on 115 when England declared their first innings at 393/8. At Stumps, Australia were at 14/0. The hosts will be eager to win the Ashes series for the first time since 2015. In the last Ashes, the Aussies had hammered England 4-0.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


The Edgbaston pitch was the central point of discussions after more than 400 runs were scored on the opening day of the first match of the Ashes. England declared their innings after putting up a total of 393 on Friday.

The Edgbaston pitch was the central point of discussions after more than 400 runs were scored on the opening day of the first match of the Ashes. England declared their innings after putting up a total of 393 on Friday. England’s total also turned out to be the second-highest by any team on day one of an Ashes match since the World War II. The proceedings of day one’s play prompted fans to question the nature of the pitch. Former India cricketer Wasim Jaffer also took a cheeky dig at the Edgbaston pitch. Questioning the nature of the pitch, the ex-India batter shared an edited picture of the ground along with a photo of the highway. “Closer look at the Edgbaston pitch Ashes 2023,” Jaffer tweeted. Closer look at the Edgbaston pitch #Ashes23 pic.twitter.com/0gNSMWdPim — Wasim Jaffer (@WasimJaffer14) June 16, 2023 × How Fans Are Reacting To The Picture The picture went viral soon and cricket fans did not waste much time in reacting to the cheeky post. “I hope Michael Vaughan will not complain about this pitch. Or ICC will not rate for the flat road,” wrote one Twitter user. I hope @MichaelVaughan will not complain about this pitch? Or @ICC will not rate for the flat road😅😛 — Vipesh Patel (@VipeshPatel27) June 16, 2023 × Recalling Team India’s World Test Championship (WTC) final loss, this person inquired, “Why did they make a green one for us?” Why did they make a green one for us ? — Harpreet Singh (@Harpreetlaw) June 16, 2023 × Another social media user felt that the pitch at Edgbaston is ‘batting paradise.” Batting paradise — Mohali to Melbourne 82* (@MelbourneNT82) June 16, 2023 × Talking about England cricket team’s attacking style of playing, another person replied, “Absolute road, didn’t even swing 1 ball. This is how Bazball works.” Absolute road, didn’t even swing 1 ball. This is how bazball works. — Sudip Maji (@cool_msudip) June 16, 2023 × Another Twitter user sarcastically commented, “They want Bazball and these pitches are ok, we want spin but our pitches are not ok.” They want bazzball and these pitch are ok, we want spin but our pitches are not ok. — Jyotiraditya Pradhan (@Jyotira74697632) June 16, 2023 × Ashes 2023 1st Test: Current Scene Winning the toss, English skipper Ben Stokes decided to bat first. Joe Root showcased a tremendous batting to bring up his 30th Test century yesterday. With this, the former England captain succeeded in ending his eight-year wait for an Ashes ton. England wicketkeeper Jonny Bairstow pulled off a crucial knock of 78 in as many deliveries. Root remained unbeaten on 115 when England declared their first innings at 393/8. At Stumps, Australia were at 14/0. The hosts will be eager to win the Ashes series for the first time since 2015. In the last Ashes, the Aussies had hammered England 4-0.

Ashes 2023: Wasim Jaffer takes a dig at the Edgbaston pitch

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


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

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

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

Cricket’s oldest and greatest rivalry is ready for a 73rd installment. Hosts England lock horns with newly-crowned World Test Champions Australia in The Ashes. Who will win the five-match series?

Cricket's oldest rivalry returns | WION Sports Extra

<p>England all-rounder Moeen Ali was awarded the OBE for his services to cricket. Ali received the prestigious award at Windsor Castle on Wednesday, just two days before the Ashes. The 35-year-old has been recalled to the England Test squad for the Test series against Australia. A report published by ESPNcricinfo revealed that Moeen Ali had to cancel a family holiday in order to make himself available for the Ashes. Ali, however, had to miss Wednesday's training session at Edgbaston to collect his OBE.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Moeen Ali is set to make his first Test appearance in the Ashes opener after almost two years. England Test skipper Ben Stokes called Ali to make a comeback to red-ball cricket after spinner Jack Leach was ruled out of the Ashes due to injury. “The fact that it is The Ashes and it is such a big series, to be part of it would be amazing. The exciting cricket the guys have been playing, it's an era I would have loved when I was playing [before]. I am a guy who goes with the flow. At the moment it's just these two games, so let's see what happens,” the England all-rounder was quoted as saying by Sky Sports.</p>

<p>The official Twitter handle of England cricket shared a photo of Moeen Ali collecting his OBE. “moBE. Moeen Ali received his OBE from Windsor Castle for his outstanding contributions to cricket,” the tweet read.</p>

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Moeen Ali received his OBE from Windsor Castle for his outstanding contributions to cricket. 🏏 <a href="https://t.co/sjcTVlObDl">pic.twitter.com/sjcTVlObDl</a></p>
— England Cricket (@englandcricket) <a href="https://twitter.com/englandcricket/status/1669314695092662273?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 15, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2>&nbsp;Moeen Ali’s Test Career</h2>

<p>In Tests, Moeen Ali has so far represented England in 64 matches. He has 2,914 runs to his name in this format, with five centuries and 14 half centuries. Ali also has 195 wickets at an average of 36.66. In red-ball cricket, he was last seen in action against India in September 2021 at The Oval. After England’s Test series against India in September 2021, Ali had announced his retirement from this format. He has not played a first-class match since retiring from Test cricket.</p>

<h2>Ashes 2023</h2>

<p>England, under the captaincy of Ben Stokes, will now be aiming to win the prestigious Ashes for the first time since 2015. The first Test between England and Australia is scheduled to start from today at Edgbaston. In the last Ashes, the Aussies had decimated England by a margin of 4-0.</p>


England all-rounder Moeen Ali was awarded the OBE for his services to cricket. Ali received the prestigious award at Windsor Castle on Wednesday, just two days before the Ashes.

England all-rounder Moeen Ali was awarded the OBE for his services to cricket. Ali received the prestigious award at Windsor Castle on Wednesday, just two days before the Ashes. The 35-year-old has been recalled to the England Test squad for the Test series against Australia. A report published by ESPNcricinfo revealed that Moeen Ali had to cancel a family holiday in order to make himself available for the Ashes. Ali, however, had to miss Wednesday's training session at Edgbaston to collect his OBE. Moeen Ali is set to make his first Test appearance in the Ashes opener after almost two years. England Test skipper Ben Stokes called Ali to make a comeback to red-ball cricket after spinner Jack Leach was ruled out of the Ashes due to injury. “The fact that it is The Ashes and it is such a big series, to be part of it would be amazing. The exciting cricket the guys have been playing, it's an era I would have loved when I was playing [before]. I am a guy who goes with the flow. At the moment it's just these two games, so let's see what happens,” the England all-rounder was quoted as saying by Sky Sports. The official Twitter handle of England cricket shared a photo of Moeen Ali collecting his OBE. “moBE. Moeen Ali received his OBE from Windsor Castle for his outstanding contributions to cricket,” the tweet read. m𝗼𝗕𝗘 🥇👏 Moeen Ali received his OBE from Windsor Castle for his outstanding contributions to cricket. 🏏 pic.twitter.com/sjcTVlObDl — England Cricket (@englandcricket) June 15, 2023 × Moeen Ali’s Test Career In Tests, Moeen Ali has so far represented England in 64 matches. He has 2,914 runs to his name in this format, with five centuries and 14 half centuries. Ali also has 195 wickets at an average of 36.66. In red-ball cricket, he was last seen in action against India in September 2021 at The Oval. After England’s Test series against India in September 2021, Ali had announced his retirement from this format. He has not played a first-class match since retiring from Test cricket. Ashes 2023 England, under the captaincy of Ben Stokes, will now be aiming to win the prestigious Ashes for the first time since 2015. The first Test between England and Australia is scheduled to start from today at Edgbaston. In the last Ashes, the Aussies had decimated England by a margin of 4-0.

Ashes 2023: Moeen Ali collects OBE for 'outstanding contributions to cricket'

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

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

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

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<p><strong>ENG vs AUS Ashes 2023:&nbsp;</strong>'The Ashes' is the oldest rivalry in test cricket between Australia and England, which began in 1882. Since then, the England vs Australia test series has always been highly anticipated by cricket fans. Ashes 2023 is all set to commence on Friday, June 16, at 03:30 PM IST at Edgbaston, Birmingham. The series will conclude on July 31. Pat Cummins-led Australian team will lock horns with England, led by Ben Stokes, on English soil. On Wednesday, England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) announced their playing XI for the first test against Australia. The hosts leapt by naming their playing XI two days before the game.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Here's everything you need to know about the ENG vs AUS Ashes 2023, one day ahead of the match.</p>

<h2><strong>ENG vs AUS Ashes 2023 Schedule</strong></h2>

<p>Ashes 2023 between England and Australia will begin at Edgbaston on June 16 in London. Here's the full schedule for ENG vs AUS Ashes 2023.&nbsp;</p>

<p>1st Test – June 16-20, Edgbaston, Birmingham</p>

<p>2nd Test – June 28-July 2, Lord's London&nbsp;</p>

<p>3rd Test – July 6-10, Headingley, Leeds</p>

<p>4th Test – July 19-23, Old Trafford, Manchester</p>

<p>5th Test – July 27-31, The Oval, London</p>

<p>All the matches will begin at 03:30 PM IST.&nbsp;</p>

<h2>ENG vs AUS&nbsp;<strong>Ashes 2023 Full Squads</strong></h2>

<p><strong>England:</strong></p>

<p>Ben Stokes (c), Ollie Pope (vc), Jonny Bairstow (wk), Joe Root, James Anderson, Stuart Broad, Harry Brook, Ben Duckett, Zak Crawley, Matthew Potts, Ollie Robinson, Dan Lawrence, Chris Woakes, Mark Wood, Josh Tongue</p>

<p><strong>Australia:</strong></p>

<p>Pat Cummins (c), Steve Smith (vc), Scott Boland, Alex Carey (wk), Cameron Green, Marcus Harris, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis (wk), Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Mitchell Marsh, Todd Murphy, Jimmy Peirson (wk), Matt Renshaw, Mitchell Starc, David Warner</p>

<h2><strong>ENG vs AUS Ashes 2023 Live Streaming&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p><strong>How to watch ENG vs AUS Ashes 2023 in India</strong></p>

<p>Sony Sports Network has purchased the rights to broadcast England vs Australia Ashes 2023 in India. Sony Sports 5 and Sony Sports 5 HD will be the primary channels for the live telecast of Ashes 2023. Fans can catch the Ashes 2023 live on SonyLIV app and website. However, they need a paid subscription to access the service.</p>

<p><strong>How to watch ENG vs AUS Ashes in England &amp; Australia</strong></p>

<p>In England, the live telecast of Ashes 2023 will be available on Sky Sports Cricket. BBC has the right to only air highlights on their channel. In the UK, fans can stream the ENG vs AUS test series on the Sky Go application. However, you need a paid subscription to access the service. In Australia, fans have two options to watch the Ashes 2023 live. Channel 7 and Fox Sports have the rights to men's Ashes broadcast in Australia. Kayo Sports will also broadcast the match live if you're a paid subscriber.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>ENG vs AUS Ashes 2023: History</strong></h2>

<p>The term 'Ashes' was born in 1882, when Australia defeated England's cricket team for the first time on their home soil. After England's defeat, the Sporting Times declared the death of English Cricket in a mock obituary. It read, "In Affectionate Remembrance of English cricket, which died at The Oval on 29 August 1882. Deeply lamented by a large circle of sorrowing friends and acquaintances, RIP. NB – the body will be cremated, and the ashes taken to Australia." Later, the English media called England's next tour to Australia the quest to regain the ashes.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>ENG vs AUS Ashes 2023: Head-to-Head</strong></h2>

<p>Here are the head-to-head stats for The Ashes. Australia won the last Ashes in 2021.</p>

<p>Played: 72</p>

<p>Australia won: 34</p>

<p>England won: 32</p>

<p>Draw/Tied: 06</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


ENG vs AUS Ashes 2023: 'The Ashes' is the oldest rivalry in test cricket between Australia and England, which began in 1882. Since then, the England vs Australia test series has always been highly anticipated by cricket fans.

ENG vs AUS Ashes 2023: 'The Ashes' is the oldest rivalry in test cricket between Australia and England, which began in 1882. Since then, the England vs Australia test series has always been highly anticipated by cricket fans. Ashes 2023 is all set to commence on Friday, June 16, at 03:30 PM IST at Edgbaston, Birmingham. The series will conclude on July 31. Pat Cummins-led Australian team will lock horns with England, led by Ben Stokes, on English soil. On Wednesday, England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) announced their playing XI for the first test against Australia. The hosts leapt by naming their playing XI two days before the game. Here's everything you need to know about the ENG vs AUS Ashes 2023, one day ahead of the match. ENG vs AUS Ashes 2023 Schedule Ashes 2023 between England and Australia will begin at Edgbaston on June 16 in London. Here's the full schedule for ENG vs AUS Ashes 2023. 1st Test – June 16-20, Edgbaston, Birmingham 2nd Test – June 28-July 2, Lord's London 3rd Test – July 6-10, Headingley, Leeds 4th Test – July 19-23, Old Trafford, Manchester 5th Test – July 27-31, The Oval, London All the matches will begin at 03:30 PM IST. ENG vs AUS Ashes 2023 Full Squads England: Ben Stokes (c), Ollie Pope (vc), Jonny Bairstow (wk), Joe Root, James Anderson, Stuart Broad, Harry Brook, Ben Duckett, Zak Crawley, Matthew Potts, Ollie Robinson, Dan Lawrence, Chris Woakes, Mark Wood, Josh Tongue Australia: Pat Cummins (c), Steve Smith (vc), Scott Boland, Alex Carey (wk), Cameron Green, Marcus Harris, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis (wk), Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Mitchell Marsh, Todd Murphy, Jimmy Peirson (wk), Matt Renshaw, Mitchell Starc, David Warner ENG vs AUS Ashes 2023 Live Streaming How to watch ENG vs AUS Ashes 2023 in India Sony Sports Network has purchased the rights to broadcast England vs Australia Ashes 2023 in India. Sony Sports 5 and Sony Sports 5 HD will be the primary channels for the live telecast of Ashes 2023. Fans can catch the Ashes 2023 live on SonyLIV app and website. However, they need a paid subscription to access the service. How to watch ENG vs AUS Ashes in England & Australia In England, the live telecast of Ashes 2023 will be available on Sky Sports Cricket. BBC has the right to only air highlights on their channel. In the UK, fans can stream the ENG vs AUS test series on the Sky Go application. However, you need a paid subscription to access the service. In Australia, fans have two options to watch the Ashes 2023 live. Channel 7 and Fox Sports have the rights to men's Ashes broadcast in Australia. Kayo Sports will also broadcast the match live if you're a paid subscriber. ENG vs AUS Ashes 2023: History The term 'Ashes' was born in 1882, when Australia defeated England's cricket team for the first time on their home soil. After England's defeat, the Sporting Times declared the death of English Cricket in a mock obituary. It read, "In Affectionate Remembrance of English cricket, which died at The Oval on 29 August 1882. Deeply lamented by a large circle of sorrowing friends and acquaintances, RIP. NB – the body will be cremated, and the ashes taken to Australia." Later, the English media called England's next tour to Australia the quest to regain the ashes. ENG vs AUS Ashes 2023: Head-to-Head Here are the head-to-head stats for The Ashes. Australia won the last Ashes in 2021. Played: 72 Australia won: 34 England won: 32 Draw/Tied: 06 WATCH WION LIVE HERE

ENG vs AUS Test Series: Here's your ultimate guide to 'The Ashes' 2023 between England & Australia

The Ashes 2023 is set to get underway at Edgbaston in Birmingham on Friday, June 16. Since last year when Brendon McCullum and Ben Stokes took over the reins in the Test setup, England's track record changed for good. On the other hand, Australia boosted their chances of tackling the most-talked-about 'Bazball' approach in the upcoming five-match series with a massive 209-run win over India in the recently-contested WTC Final 2023.

Ashes 2023: England's road for redemption as they take on World Test Champions Australia

Cricket’s oldest and greatest rivalry is ready for a 73rd installment. Hosts England lock horns with newly-crowned World Test Champions Australia in The Ashes. WION Sports Editor Digvijay Singh Deo spoke to former New Zealand cricketer Chris Harris to preview the five-match series.

Chris Harris sets up The Ashes | Can 'Bazball' work against Australia?

<p>After thrashing India in the third Test, Joe Root went on to become England’s most successful Test captain with 27 wins to his name.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rishabh-pants-batting-style-similar-to-adam-gilchrist-will-be-a-discussion-point-always-says-ashish-nehra-409932" hreflang="en">Rishabh Pant's batting style similar to Adam Gilchrist, will be a discussion point always, says Ashish Nehra</a></p>

<p>However, Michael Vaughan had said that England Test skipper Joe Root will be termed as great if he manages to win the Ashes in Australia.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Root responded to these comments made by former England captain. During a media interaction ahead of the start of the fourth Test match, Root said that the English skippers are judged 'slightly' on how you perform in the Ashes.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"As an England captain, you're judged slightly on how you perform in Ashes cricket," said Root. "More than anything I feel we need to win this series first. This is a huge series for us. And then we will turn our attention to Australia.</p>

<p>"It is something that everyone wants to do, getting to Australia and winning as a player or as a captain. What other people think of me as a captain is irrelevant. My job is to give everything to the team, and if that is not good enough for some people, it is something I have done, and I will be proud of that," explained Root.</p>

<p>The 30-year-old surpassed the likes of Michael Vaughan, Andrew Strauss and Alastair Cook to guide his team to the most number of wins in Test cricket.</p>

<p>It took Joe Root 55 Tests to achieve this feat. He is followed by Vaughan, who won 26 matches out of 51 Tests. Alastair Cook and Andrew Strauss won 24 Tests each.&nbsp;</p>


After thrashing India in the third Test, Joe Root went on to become England’s most successful Test captain with 27 wins to his name. ALSO READ: Rishabh Pant's batting style similar to Adam Gilchrist, will be a discussion point always, says Ashish Nehra However, Michael Vaughan had said that England Test skipper Joe Root will be termed as great if he manages to win the Ashes in Australia.

After thrashing India in the third Test, Joe Root went on to become England’s most successful Test captain with 27 wins to his name. ALSO READ: Rishabh Pant's batting style similar to Adam Gilchrist, will be a discussion point always, says Ashish Nehra However, Michael Vaughan had said that England Test skipper Joe Root will be termed as great if he manages to win the Ashes in Australia. Root responded to these comments made by former England captain. During a media interaction ahead of the start of the fourth Test match, Root said that the English skippers are judged 'slightly' on how you perform in the Ashes. "As an England captain, you're judged slightly on how you perform in Ashes cricket," said Root. "More than anything I feel we need to win this series first. This is a huge series for us. And then we will turn our attention to Australia. "It is something that everyone wants to do, getting to Australia and winning as a player or as a captain. What other people think of me as a captain is irrelevant. My job is to give everything to the team, and if that is not good enough for some people, it is something I have done, and I will be proud of that," explained Root. The 30-year-old surpassed the likes of Michael Vaughan, Andrew Strauss and Alastair Cook to guide his team to the most number of wins in Test cricket. It took Joe Root 55 Tests to achieve this feat. He is followed by Vaughan, who won 26 matches out of 51 Tests. Alastair Cook and Andrew Strauss won 24 Tests each.

'You're judged slightly on how you perform in Ashes cricket': Joe Root

<p>A morning that brought two wickets for England and a sniff of a drought-breaking Ashes win gave way to a bleak afternoon for the tourists on Friday as rain washed out most of day four on Friday and left Australia well-placed to save the fourth test.</p>

<p>The home side were 102 for two in their second innings at the Melbourne Cricket Ground when rain interrupted play before tea and the showers lingered long enough for umpires to abandon the day without another ball bowled.</p>

<p>David Warner was 40 not out, with captain Steve Smith on 25 and Australia still needing another 61 runs to make England bat again.</p>

<p>But even with the promise of reverse swing, Joe Root`s bowlers face a big task on an unresponsive pitch to prevent Australia&#39;s batsmen from batting them out of the game.</p>

<p>&quot;(The pitch) is getting slower,&quot; Australia coach Darren Lehmann told host broadcaster Channel Nine. &quot;It`s tough work for a new batter. So once you`re in, you`ve got to stay in.</p>

<p>&quot;Our boys are fighting really hard. A couple of good (England) balls to get the wickets and Smith and the vice- captain (Warner) went about their work.&quot;</p>

<p>Australia regained the Ashes after the third test in Perth and hold an unassailable 3-0 lead in the series but England had hope of cracking a first win after Alastair Cook&#39;s unbeaten 244 propelled them to a first innings lead of 164.</p>

<p>They had resumed their first innings on 491-9 in the morning but were unable to extend their total, with tail-ender James Anderson dismissed first ball by paceman Pat Cummins, fending a catch straight to Cameron Bancroft at short leg.</p>

<p>That left former captain Cook unbeaten on his overnight score, a record total among openers who have carried their bat through an innings.</p>

<p>Cook became the 46th player to achieve the feat in tests and also the first England batsman to do so in 20 years, since Mike Atherton&#39;s 94 not out against New Zealand in Christchurch in 1997.</p>

<p>Australia&#39;s second innings began brightly on a cloudy but dry morning, with England losing a review for a caught behind decision when opener Bancroft played at a Tom Curran ball in the seventh over of the innings.</p>

<p>However, the tourists seamers struck twice to leave Australia wobbling at 65-2 before Warner and Smith showed patience and poise in their unbroken stand of 38.</p>

<p>All-rounder Chris Woakes made the early breakthrough, bowling Bancroft for 27, with England quick Anderson having number three Usman Khawaja caught behind for 11.</p>

<p>Australia resumed on 70-2 after lunch but added only 16 runs before the first rain interruption.</p>

<p>Play was soon back on but only another 33 minutes were possible before the session was brought to a premature close.</p>


The home side were 102 for two in their second innings at the Melbourne Cricket Ground when rain interrupted play before tea and the showers lingered long enough for umpires to abandon the day without another ball bowled.

A morning that brought two wickets for England and a sniff of a drought-breaking Ashes win gave way to a bleak afternoon for the tourists on Friday as rain washed out most of day four on Friday and left Australia well-placed to save the fourth test. The home side were 102 for two in their second innings at the Melbourne Cricket Ground when rain interrupted play before tea and the showers lingered long enough for umpires to abandon the day without another ball bowled. David Warner was 40 not out, with captain Steve Smith on 25 and Australia still needing another 61 runs to make England bat again. But even with the promise of reverse swing, Joe Root`s bowlers face a big task on an unresponsive pitch to prevent Australia's batsmen from batting them out of the game. "(The pitch) is getting slower," Australia coach Darren Lehmann told host broadcaster Channel Nine. "It`s tough work for a new batter. So once you`re in, you`ve got to stay in. "Our boys are fighting really hard. A couple of good (England) balls to get the wickets and Smith and the vice- captain (Warner) went about their work." Australia regained the Ashes after the third test in Perth and hold an unassailable 3-0 lead in the series but England had hope of cracking a first win after Alastair Cook's unbeaten 244 propelled them to a first innings lead of 164. They had resumed their first innings on 491-9 in the morning but were unable to extend their total, with tail-ender James Anderson dismissed first ball by paceman Pat Cummins, fending a catch straight to Cameron Bancroft at short leg. That left former captain Cook unbeaten on his overnight score, a record total among openers who have carried their bat through an innings. Cook became the 46th player to achieve the feat in tests and also the first England batsman to do so in 20 years, since Mike Atherton's 94 not out against New Zealand in Christchurch in 1997. Australia's second innings began brightly on a cloudy but dry morning, with England losing a review for a caught behind decision when opener Bancroft played at a Tom Curran ball in the seventh over of the innings. However, the tourists seamers struck twice to leave Australia wobbling at 65-2 before Warner and Smith showed patience and poise in their unbroken stand of 38. All-rounder Chris Woakes made the early breakthrough, bowling Bancroft for 27, with England quick Anderson having number three Usman Khawaja caught behind for 11. Australia resumed on 70-2 after lunch but added only 16 runs before the first rain interruption. Play was soon back on but only another 33 minutes were possible before the session was brought to a premature close.

Ashes: Rain hits England's hopes of win

<p>Cricket Australia (CA) has recovered thousands of scalped tickets for the third Ashes test against England in Perth, the governing body said on Wednesday.</p>

<p>The 2,890 tickets were &quot;identified as linked to scalped tickets being sold at a premium&quot; on online market place eBay, CA said in a statement.</p>

<p>The tickets for the Dec. 14-18 Test at the WACA will go back on sale on August&nbsp;28.</p>

<p>The five-Test Ashes series against current holders England is one of Australia&#39;s most well-attended sporting events. The first Test starts in Brisbane on November&nbsp;23.</p>


The 2,890 tickets were "identified as linked to scalped tickets being sold at a premium" on online market place eBay

Cricket Australia (CA) has recovered thousands of scalped tickets for the third Ashes test against England in Perth, the governing body said on Wednesday. The 2,890 tickets were "identified as linked to scalped tickets being sold at a premium" on online market place eBay, CA said in a statement. The tickets for the Dec. 14-18 Test at the WACA will go back on sale on August 28. The five-Test Ashes series against current holders England is one of Australia's most well-attended sporting events. The first Test starts in Brisbane on November 23.

Ashes tickets resold online at a premium, recovered by Cricket Australia

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