3 hours ago
England have wrapped up victory over Pakistan in the third Test by eight wickets to seal a 3-0 series win.
Here's how the players rated at Edgbaston.
Emilio Gay - 6 - A gritty Test-best of 60 in tricky batting conditions in the first innings looked to have gone some way towards securing his place on the plane for a winter tour of South Africa, only for a duck next time round to bring back some uncertainty. (Series - 6)
Ben Duckett - 2 - A miserable end to the summer for the opener who will now come under some scrutiny. Made 11 and zero in this match and finishes this three-Test series well down the averages with a disappointing 44 runs at 8.8. (Series - 2)
Jordan **** - 7 - A cheap dismissal in the first innings but made a nerveless unbeaten 59 to take the sting out of Pakistan after a wobble in the chase. A particularly impressive effort with the gloves - taking five dismissals - after being called upon to keep following Jamie Smith's injury may have given the selectors food for thought in the role. (Series - 7)
#england #edgbaston #south
Here's how the players rated at Edgbaston.
Emilio Gay - 6 - A gritty Test-best of 60 in tricky batting conditions in the first innings looked to have gone some way towards securing his place on the plane for a winter tour of South Africa, only for a duck next time round to bring back some uncertainty. (Series - 6)
Ben Duckett - 2 - A miserable end to the summer for the opener who will now come under some scrutiny. Made 11 and zero in this match and finishes this three-Test series well down the averages with a disappointing 44 runs at 8.8. (Series - 2)
Jordan **** - 7 - A cheap dismissal in the first innings but made a nerveless unbeaten 59 to take the sting out of Pakistan after a wobble in the chase. A particularly impressive effort with the gloves - taking five dismissals - after being called upon to keep following Jamie Smith's injury may have given the selectors food for thought in the role. (Series - 7)
#england #edgbaston #south
4 hours ago
Third Rothesay Test, Edgbaston (day four of five)
Pakistan 133 (Tongue 4-42) & 449 (Masood 95, Razaullah 81, Babar 76, Awais 59)
England 453 (Brook 75, Smith 69, Lawrence 65, Gay 60, Robinson 50; Razaullah 4-148) & 130-2 (Root 62*, ****** 59*)
England won by eight wickets, won series 3-0
Scorecard
#england #babar
Pakistan 133 (Tongue 4-42) & 449 (Masood 95, Razaullah 81, Babar 76, Awais 59)
England 453 (Brook 75, Smith 69, Lawrence 65, Gay 60, Robinson 50; Razaullah 4-148) & 130-2 (Root 62*, ****** 59*)
England won by eight wickets, won series 3-0
Scorecard
#england #babar
9 hours ago
'They've unearthed a gem': Michael Vaughan reacts to Razaullah's sensational 'Razball' blitz on Pakistan debut vs England originally appeared on Cricket News. Add Cricket News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
Razaullah Khan's explosive 81 off 63 ****** , including nine sixes, helped Pakistan post 449 in their second innings at Edgbaston.
Pakistan, who had conceded a 320-run lead, forced England to return on Day 4 needing 130 runs to complete a series sweep.
Michael Vaughan praised Razaullah as a future star while criticising England's tactics that allowed Pakistan's extraordinary lower-order fightback.
Razaullah Khan showed grit and class to salvage some pride for a beleaguered Pakistan side who were bowled out for 133 in their first innings and stared down a 320-run deficit at Edgbaston.
#edgbaston
Razaullah Khan's explosive 81 off 63 ****** , including nine sixes, helped Pakistan post 449 in their second innings at Edgbaston.
Pakistan, who had conceded a 320-run lead, forced England to return on Day 4 needing 130 runs to complete a series sweep.
Michael Vaughan praised Razaullah as a future star while criticising England's tactics that allowed Pakistan's extraordinary lower-order fightback.
Razaullah Khan showed grit and class to salvage some pride for a beleaguered Pakistan side who were bowled out for 133 in their first innings and stared down a 320-run deficit at Edgbaston.
#edgbaston
20 hours ago
England had "no plan" and were "out of control" in the face of Razaullah's stunning hitting on the third day of the final Test against Pakistan, according to former captain Alastair Cook.
Razaullah, the 21-year-old batting at number nine on Test debut, clobbered 81 from 63 ****** at Edgbaston.
He shared a ninth-wicket partnership of 121 with Muhammad Abbas to drag the third Test into an unlikely fourth day, with England set 130 for victory.
Though England are heavy favourites to earn a 3-0 clean sweep, the carnage of the final session was an alarming spell as Joe Root begins his second spell as captain.
Root's tactics were often criticised in his first spell as skipper and there were further questions of the Yorkshireman when he stood in for former captain Ben Stokes earlier this summer.
#former
Razaullah, the 21-year-old batting at number nine on Test debut, clobbered 81 from 63 ****** at Edgbaston.
He shared a ninth-wicket partnership of 121 with Muhammad Abbas to drag the third Test into an unlikely fourth day, with England set 130 for victory.
Though England are heavy favourites to earn a 3-0 clean sweep, the carnage of the final session was an alarming spell as Joe Root begins his second spell as captain.
Root's tactics were often criticised in his first spell as skipper and there were further questions of the Yorkshireman when he stood in for former captain Ben Stokes earlier this summer.
#former
20 hours ago
Former Australia opener David Warner found himself in a playful social media exchange with England's famous fan group, the Barmy Army, on Friday, and the banter quickly moved from Saim Ayub's ducks to Marnus Labuschagne's century drought, England's curfew troubles and Warner's long-running Stuart Broad problem.
It all started when the Barmy Army took a dig at Warner after Pakistan batter Saim Ayub registered a pair of ducks in the final Test against England at Edgbaston. The England fan group posted a statistic pointing out that Ayub had now registered a pair twice on English soil.
Replying to the Barmy Army, Warner wrote: "Interesting stat. When was the last time I went 42 innings without a Test hundred??"
The reference was not actually about Warner. The 42 innings was a cheeky dig at former Australia teammate Marnus Labuschagne, who had gone through a lengthy drought without a Test century. Labuschagne's last Test hundred came against England at Headingley in 2023, and his drought had stretched to 42 innings.
But he wasn't finished. Then came the curfew dig.
Warner followed his 42-innings reference with another jab: "Oh do you guys still have a curfew? Asking for a mate."
That was a reference to England's recent off-field disciplinary issues involving players breaking team curfew and going out drinking. The issue had become a talking point around the England setup, with fast bowler Brydon Carse among the players caught up in the recent controversy.
#australia
It all started when the Barmy Army took a dig at Warner after Pakistan batter Saim Ayub registered a pair of ducks in the final Test against England at Edgbaston. The England fan group posted a statistic pointing out that Ayub had now registered a pair twice on English soil.
Replying to the Barmy Army, Warner wrote: "Interesting stat. When was the last time I went 42 innings without a Test hundred??"
The reference was not actually about Warner. The 42 innings was a cheeky dig at former Australia teammate Marnus Labuschagne, who had gone through a lengthy drought without a Test century. Labuschagne's last Test hundred came against England at Headingley in 2023, and his drought had stretched to 42 innings.
But he wasn't finished. Then came the curfew dig.
Warner followed his 42-innings reference with another jab: "Oh do you guys still have a curfew? Asking for a mate."
That was a reference to England's recent off-field disciplinary issues involving players breaking team curfew and going out drinking. The issue had become a talking point around the England setup, with fast bowler Brydon Carse among the players caught up in the recent controversy.
#australia
20 hours ago
Cancel the tee booked at the Belfry, rearrange the trip to Cadbury World and abort the shopping jolly to the Bullring.
The reason? Pakistan debutant Razaullah and 'Razball'.
England's bowlers were thwarted by a Pakistan side who mixed batting belligerence with brilliance and instead of a Saturday off must reconvene at Edgbaston for day four.
The brilliance was provided by Razaullah, who produced a dizzying knock to breathe life into the third Test and lift the spirits of Pakistan supporters everywhere. A new hero, a new hope.
Bazball might be on its way out, but has Birmingham might just witnessed the birth of new phenomenon during two hours of unbridled chaos during which he made a stunning 81 off 63 **** coming in at number nine.
#Pakistan
The reason? Pakistan debutant Razaullah and 'Razball'.
England's bowlers were thwarted by a Pakistan side who mixed batting belligerence with brilliance and instead of a Saturday off must reconvene at Edgbaston for day four.
The brilliance was provided by Razaullah, who produced a dizzying knock to breathe life into the third Test and lift the spirits of Pakistan supporters everywhere. A new hero, a new hope.
Bazball might be on its way out, but has Birmingham might just witnessed the birth of new phenomenon during two hours of unbridled chaos during which he made a stunning 81 off 63 **** coming in at number nine.
#Pakistan
2 days ago
Third Rothesay Test, Edgbaston (day two of five)
Pakistan 133 (Shakeel 43; Tongue 4-42) & 52-2 (Robinson 2-10)
England 453 (Brook 75, Smith 69, Lawrence 65, Gay 60, Robinson 50; Razaullah 4-148)
Pakistan are 268 runs behind
Scorecard
#Pakistan #test #shakeel #brook
Pakistan 133 (Shakeel 43; Tongue 4-42) & 52-2 (Robinson 2-10)
England 453 (Brook 75, Smith 69, Lawrence 65, Gay 60, Robinson 50; Razaullah 4-148)
Pakistan are 268 runs behind
Scorecard
#Pakistan #test #shakeel #brook
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4 days ago
Former Pakistan spinner Saeed Ajmal has launched another scathing attack on the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), accusing the governing body of playing a major role in the national team's recent struggles.
Ajmal, who claimed 362 wickets across international cricket for Pakistan before his career was brought to an early end by an issue with his bowling action, has repeatedly expressed his frustration with the PCB. The former spinner has maintained that the board failed to support him during a difficult phase of his career.
His latest criticism comes after Pakistan suffered another heavy defeat against England in the Lord's Test. Following the loss, the PCB made a series of sweeping changes, sacking head coach Sarfaraz Ahmed and bowling coach Umar Gul while also sending seven players back home.
Among those sent back was Imam-ul-Haq, who did not bat in either innings and was subsequently accused of faking his calf injury.
PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi later attempted to defend the players and urged critics to stop demotivating the team. Ajmal, however, questioned the sincerity of that message and instead accused the board itself of undermining Pakistan's cricketers.
"The board itself has demotivated the players more than anyone else. The board is not letting any player stand. There are players who have done well, who have also been dropped. There are players who have been humiliated by the PCB," Ajmal said.
The former Pakistan spinner also directed his criticism towards Director High Performance and selector Aaqib Javed and white-ball head coach Mike Hesson.
With Hesson also asked to take charge of the Test side for the third match against England, Ajmal claimed the pair have significant control over Pakistan cricket and held them responsible for the team's current situation.
"Aaqib Javed and Mike Hesson (who has been asked to take over the Test team for the third Test) are a team. These two are controlling everything and are responsible for this whole mess. The whole issue is about egos," Ajmal said on Samaa TV.
Ajmal further criticised the PCB's long-term planning, claiming Pakistan's cricket structure had regressed considerably.
"Our team has gone back 10 years. We have not planned for the future," he added.
Pakistan have already surrendered the Test series against England and are now facing the prospect of a clean sweep. The third and final Test is scheduled to begin at Edgbaston on Wednesday, with Hesson set to take charge of the Test side.
Naqvi, meanwhile, had earlier attempted to explain the reasoning behind the PCB's decision to make such extensive changes after the Lord's defeat.
Speaking to Geo Network, the PCB chairman insisted that the decisions were not motivated by personal issues and said the board had little choice when players were not producing results.
"Every match of a series is important for us, and we are not left with any option if a player is not performing but to look for his replacement. The
Ajmal, who claimed 362 wickets across international cricket for Pakistan before his career was brought to an early end by an issue with his bowling action, has repeatedly expressed his frustration with the PCB. The former spinner has maintained that the board failed to support him during a difficult phase of his career.
His latest criticism comes after Pakistan suffered another heavy defeat against England in the Lord's Test. Following the loss, the PCB made a series of sweeping changes, sacking head coach Sarfaraz Ahmed and bowling coach Umar Gul while also sending seven players back home.
Among those sent back was Imam-ul-Haq, who did not bat in either innings and was subsequently accused of faking his calf injury.
PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi later attempted to defend the players and urged critics to stop demotivating the team. Ajmal, however, questioned the sincerity of that message and instead accused the board itself of undermining Pakistan's cricketers.
"The board itself has demotivated the players more than anyone else. The board is not letting any player stand. There are players who have done well, who have also been dropped. There are players who have been humiliated by the PCB," Ajmal said.
The former Pakistan spinner also directed his criticism towards Director High Performance and selector Aaqib Javed and white-ball head coach Mike Hesson.
With Hesson also asked to take charge of the Test side for the third match against England, Ajmal claimed the pair have significant control over Pakistan cricket and held them responsible for the team's current situation.
"Aaqib Javed and Mike Hesson (who has been asked to take over the Test team for the third Test) are a team. These two are controlling everything and are responsible for this whole mess. The whole issue is about egos," Ajmal said on Samaa TV.
Ajmal further criticised the PCB's long-term planning, claiming Pakistan's cricket structure had regressed considerably.
"Our team has gone back 10 years. We have not planned for the future," he added.
Pakistan have already surrendered the Test series against England and are now facing the prospect of a clean sweep. The third and final Test is scheduled to begin at Edgbaston on Wednesday, with Hesson set to take charge of the Test side.
Naqvi, meanwhile, had earlier attempted to explain the reasoning behind the PCB's decision to make such extensive changes after the Lord's defeat.
Speaking to Geo Network, the PCB chairman insisted that the decisions were not motivated by personal issues and said the board had little choice when players were not producing results.
"Every match of a series is important for us, and we are not left with any option if a player is not performing but to look for his replacement. The
6 days ago
Pakistan's troubled England tour has taken another unexpected turn, with the Pakistan Cricket Board reportedly taking mobile phones belonging to members of the national team into its custody ahead of the third and final Test at Edgbaston.
According to Pakistani 365 News, the players' devices have been handed over to the PCB and will remain with the board until the conclusion of the final Test. The report did not reveal the identities of the players whose phones were taken, while the PCB has not publicly stated why the devices were placed in its custody.
The development has raised questions about the extent of the authorities' powers over players' personal devices, particularly regarding when phones can be seized, retained or accessed and what safeguards apply to private communications.
Mobile phones are already subject to strict restrictions in international cricket, particularly inside areas designated as restricted during matches.
Under the ICC's Player and Match Officials Area regulations, players and support staff are not permitted to possess or use mobile phones or other communication devices inside restricted areas, including dressing rooms, during an international match.
Players are expected to place their devices in secure storage before entering such areas. The primary purpose of these regulations is to protect the integrity of international matches and prevent unauthorised communication.
However, those match-day restrictions are separate from a situation in which a player's personal phone is retained for an extended period.
The ICC Anti-Corruption Code gives authorised anti-corruption officials considerably broader powers when a formal integrity investigation is underway.
Under the code, an authorised anti-corruption official can make a written demand requiring a participant to surrender a mobile device or allow investigators to copy or download information from it when there are reasonable grounds to believe the material could be relevant to an investigation.
The information potentially covered by such a request is wide-ranging. It can include telephone and internet records, text messages, WhatsApp conversations, photographs, videos, audio files and other electronically stored documents.
Participants can also be required to provide passwords or access codes needed by investigators to obtain the relevant material.
A failure to comply with a legitimate demand during an anti-corruption investigation can itself result in disciplinary action.
Despite the ICC's provisions, the reported decision by the PCB to take possession of the players' phones does not, by itself, establish that an anti-corruption investigation is taking place.
There has been no confirmation that the PCB's action in England is connected to an integrity investigation involving corruption, betting or match-fixing. No player has been publicly accused of an integrity offence either.
There is also a distinction between the ICC's jurisdic
According to Pakistani 365 News, the players' devices have been handed over to the PCB and will remain with the board until the conclusion of the final Test. The report did not reveal the identities of the players whose phones were taken, while the PCB has not publicly stated why the devices were placed in its custody.
The development has raised questions about the extent of the authorities' powers over players' personal devices, particularly regarding when phones can be seized, retained or accessed and what safeguards apply to private communications.
Mobile phones are already subject to strict restrictions in international cricket, particularly inside areas designated as restricted during matches.
Under the ICC's Player and Match Officials Area regulations, players and support staff are not permitted to possess or use mobile phones or other communication devices inside restricted areas, including dressing rooms, during an international match.
Players are expected to place their devices in secure storage before entering such areas. The primary purpose of these regulations is to protect the integrity of international matches and prevent unauthorised communication.
However, those match-day restrictions are separate from a situation in which a player's personal phone is retained for an extended period.
The ICC Anti-Corruption Code gives authorised anti-corruption officials considerably broader powers when a formal integrity investigation is underway.
Under the code, an authorised anti-corruption official can make a written demand requiring a participant to surrender a mobile device or allow investigators to copy or download information from it when there are reasonable grounds to believe the material could be relevant to an investigation.
The information potentially covered by such a request is wide-ranging. It can include telephone and internet records, text messages, WhatsApp conversations, photographs, videos, audio files and other electronically stored documents.
Participants can also be required to provide passwords or access codes needed by investigators to obtain the relevant material.
A failure to comply with a legitimate demand during an anti-corruption investigation can itself result in disciplinary action.
Despite the ICC's provisions, the reported decision by the PCB to take possession of the players' phones does not, by itself, establish that an anti-corruption investigation is taking place.
There has been no confirmation that the PCB's action in England is connected to an integrity investigation involving corruption, betting or match-fixing. No player has been publicly accused of an integrity offence either.
There is also a distinction between the ICC's jurisdic
8 days ago
Michael Atherton has questioned the authority of Babar Azam and the role Pakistan's captains are allowed to play after the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) made sweeping changes to the Test squad midway through the England series.
Pakistan suffered defeats in the opening two Tests and responded by sending seven players home. Mohammad Rizwan, Salman Ali Agha and Imam-ul-Haq were among those removed from the squad, while coaches Sarfaraz Ahmed and Umar Gul were also asked to leave.
Mike Hesson will now take charge of the team for the third and final Test at Edgbaston, beginning on September 9.
The scale of the changes has placed Babar under increasing scrutiny. Former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif had already argued that Babar should have resigned after the seven players were sent home, while also branding him a "dummy captain".
Atherton has now questioned whether Babar, or indeed any Pakistan captain, has enough influence within the setup to lead effectively following such a major intervention from the board.
The former England captain believes the changes could have lasting consequences for Pakistan, regardless of what happens in the final Test.
"Not in this instance, no, because of the damage it will do in the long term. This is no way to manage players and no way to build a long-term vision at all," Atherton said on the Sky Sports Cricket Podcast.
"I feel it's a horrible position for a captain, Babar Azam, to be in - and what kind of authority does he or indeed any captain of Pakistan have in this outfit?" he added.
Atherton suggested that the events of the England tour could make it extremely difficult for Babar to establish authority over the Pakistan dressing room.
He acknowledged that modern-day captains do not have the same control they once enjoyed, but insisted that a captain still needs to have a meaningful say in the team's affairs.
"One understands that the captain is not all-powerful these days, you're not going back 30 years ago when they perhaps ran the show, but they have to have some authority within a team," said Atherton.
The former England captain then raised a question over how Babar can move forward after the PCB's intervention.
"Given what's happened, how do you lead that team now?" he added.
Babar reclaimed Pakistan's Test captaincy from Shan Masood earlier this year after Bangladesh defeated Pakistan in their two-match series.
His side subsequently drew the series against the West Indies before travelling to England.
The 31-year-old missed the first Test against England because of an injury, but returned for the second match at Lord's.
His comeback, however, did little to ease Pakistan's batting problems. Babar scored only 8 and 6 as Pakistan suffered another heavy defeat.
England won the Lord's Test by 194 runs to take an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series.
With seven players removed and the coaching staff reshuffled, Babar now faces the challenge of leading a
Pakistan suffered defeats in the opening two Tests and responded by sending seven players home. Mohammad Rizwan, Salman Ali Agha and Imam-ul-Haq were among those removed from the squad, while coaches Sarfaraz Ahmed and Umar Gul were also asked to leave.
Mike Hesson will now take charge of the team for the third and final Test at Edgbaston, beginning on September 9.
The scale of the changes has placed Babar under increasing scrutiny. Former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif had already argued that Babar should have resigned after the seven players were sent home, while also branding him a "dummy captain".
Atherton has now questioned whether Babar, or indeed any Pakistan captain, has enough influence within the setup to lead effectively following such a major intervention from the board.
The former England captain believes the changes could have lasting consequences for Pakistan, regardless of what happens in the final Test.
"Not in this instance, no, because of the damage it will do in the long term. This is no way to manage players and no way to build a long-term vision at all," Atherton said on the Sky Sports Cricket Podcast.
"I feel it's a horrible position for a captain, Babar Azam, to be in - and what kind of authority does he or indeed any captain of Pakistan have in this outfit?" he added.
Atherton suggested that the events of the England tour could make it extremely difficult for Babar to establish authority over the Pakistan dressing room.
He acknowledged that modern-day captains do not have the same control they once enjoyed, but insisted that a captain still needs to have a meaningful say in the team's affairs.
"One understands that the captain is not all-powerful these days, you're not going back 30 years ago when they perhaps ran the show, but they have to have some authority within a team," said Atherton.
The former England captain then raised a question over how Babar can move forward after the PCB's intervention.
"Given what's happened, how do you lead that team now?" he added.
Babar reclaimed Pakistan's Test captaincy from Shan Masood earlier this year after Bangladesh defeated Pakistan in their two-match series.
His side subsequently drew the series against the West Indies before travelling to England.
The 31-year-old missed the first Test against England because of an injury, but returned for the second match at Lord's.
His comeback, however, did little to ease Pakistan's batting problems. Babar scored only 8 and 6 as Pakistan suffered another heavy defeat.
England won the Lord's Test by 194 runs to take an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series.
With seven players removed and the coaching staff reshuffled, Babar now faces the challenge of leading a
8 days ago
'What they've done is laughable': Nasser Hussain says Pakistan have made things 'even worse' after PCB's Test team shake-up originally appeared on Cricket News. Add Cricket News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
Nasser Hussain believes the PCB's chaotic Test team shake-up has turned Pakistan cricket into a global punchline.
The former England captain clarified his recent heavy criticism stemmed from frustration, not mockery.
Hussain contrasted the current squad's surrender with the fight shown by legends like Wasim Akram and Inzamam-ul-Haq.
The PCB's latest attempt to shake up their Test squad has gone exactly as well as expected, turning the team into a complete joke. Instead of trying to salvage the final match at Edgbaston, the board decided to send half of their players home.
#preferred
Nasser Hussain believes the PCB's chaotic Test team shake-up has turned Pakistan cricket into a global punchline.
The former England captain clarified his recent heavy criticism stemmed from frustration, not mockery.
Hussain contrasted the current squad's surrender with the fight shown by legends like Wasim Akram and Inzamam-ul-Haq.
The PCB's latest attempt to shake up their Test squad has gone exactly as well as expected, turning the team into a complete joke. Instead of trying to salvage the final match at Edgbaston, the board decided to send half of their players home.
#preferred
9 days ago
Former England captain Michael Vaughan has called a 43% ticket price increase for next year's men's Ashes Test at Edgbaston "really poor".
The Birmingham ground will host the third Test of the best-of-five series between England and Australia next summer with ticket prices in the Hollies Stand - which holds almost 6,000 spectators - costing £165, up from £115 in 2023.
Elsewhere in the stadium, members can purchase tickets for £92, but the cheapest adult tickets across the first three days are £115, with every ticket carrying a £2.50 booking fee.
"This is really poor," Vaughan posted on social media in response to the news.
Following the 2023 series, which ended in a 2-2 draw after Australia won the first two Tests (at Edgbaston and Lord's), the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) said "every day sold out in advance, with total attendance topping 545,000".
#england
The Birmingham ground will host the third Test of the best-of-five series between England and Australia next summer with ticket prices in the Hollies Stand - which holds almost 6,000 spectators - costing £165, up from £115 in 2023.
Elsewhere in the stadium, members can purchase tickets for £92, but the cheapest adult tickets across the first three days are £115, with every ticket carrying a £2.50 booking fee.
"This is really poor," Vaughan posted on social media in response to the news.
Following the 2023 series, which ended in a 2-2 draw after Australia won the first two Tests (at Edgbaston and Lord's), the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) said "every day sold out in advance, with total attendance topping 545,000".
#england
10 days ago
England have named a 15-member squad for the third and final Rothesay Test against Pakistan, with the hosts looking to complete a 3-0 series sweep at Edgbaston from September 9. England have already secured an unassailable 2-0 lead in the series after a dominant innings-and-103-run victory at Headingley and a 194-run win at Lord's.
Fast bowler Brydon Carse remains absent from the squad as he continues to be under police investigation following his arrest in Derby last month.
Brydon Carse was left out of the second Test at Lord's after being arrested outside a nightclub on August 22. Derbyshire Police confirmed that an investigation is ongoing into allegations of ******* ault. Although Carse returned to domestic cricket last week and featured in Durham's County Championship win over Gloucestershire, he was not selected for their ongoing fixture against Northamptonshire and has not been recalled to the England squad.
Uncapped Hampshire seamer Sonny Baker, who replaced Carse ahead of the Lord's Test, retains his place in the squad. Matthew Fisher is the only player to be left out from the group that travelled to Lord's.
With England set to play six white-ball matches against Sri Lanka immediately after the Pakistan series, the management could opt to rotate some of its frontline quicks. Jofra Archer, Gus Atkinson and Josh Tongue are among those who could be managed, potentially opening the door for Baker, Sam Cook or Shoaib Bashir to feature at Edgbaston.
Cook has played just one Test, against Zimbabwe last summer, while Bashir is yet to feature in the ongoing series after England opted for an all-pace attack. Baker, meanwhile, has one Test appearance to his name, having played against New Zealand at The Oval in June.
Joe Root (captain), Jofra Archer, Gus Atkinson, Sonny Baker, Shoaib Bashir, Harry Brook, Sam Cook, Jordan ******* , Ben Duckett, Emilio Gay, Dan Lawrence, Ollie Pope, Ollie Robinson, Jamie Smith, Josh Tongue.
#england #series #cook
Fast bowler Brydon Carse remains absent from the squad as he continues to be under police investigation following his arrest in Derby last month.
Brydon Carse was left out of the second Test at Lord's after being arrested outside a nightclub on August 22. Derbyshire Police confirmed that an investigation is ongoing into allegations of ******* ault. Although Carse returned to domestic cricket last week and featured in Durham's County Championship win over Gloucestershire, he was not selected for their ongoing fixture against Northamptonshire and has not been recalled to the England squad.
Uncapped Hampshire seamer Sonny Baker, who replaced Carse ahead of the Lord's Test, retains his place in the squad. Matthew Fisher is the only player to be left out from the group that travelled to Lord's.
With England set to play six white-ball matches against Sri Lanka immediately after the Pakistan series, the management could opt to rotate some of its frontline quicks. Jofra Archer, Gus Atkinson and Josh Tongue are among those who could be managed, potentially opening the door for Baker, Sam Cook or Shoaib Bashir to feature at Edgbaston.
Cook has played just one Test, against Zimbabwe last summer, while Bashir is yet to feature in the ongoing series after England opted for an all-pace attack. Baker, meanwhile, has one Test appearance to his name, having played against New Zealand at The Oval in June.
Joe Root (captain), Jofra Archer, Gus Atkinson, Sonny Baker, Shoaib Bashir, Harry Brook, Sam Cook, Jordan ******* , Ben Duckett, Emilio Gay, Dan Lawrence, Ollie Pope, Ollie Robinson, Jamie Smith, Josh Tongue.
#england #series #cook
11 days ago
NEW DELHI: Former Pakistan captain Misbah-ul-Haq has offered his resignation from the Pakistan Cricket Board's (PCB) national selection committee, adding another dramatic twist to the turmoil surrounding the Test side after a sweeping overhaul of the squad and coaching staff.
According to Geo News, sources close to Misbah said the former cricketer had informed the PCB of his decision and would serve a notice period before formally stepping down. Cricinfo also reported that Misbah had offered his resignation, although the PCB is yet to accept it.
The development comes just a day after the PCB announced wholesale changes to the Pakistan Test squad and coaching staff following the team's heavy 194-run defeat to England at Lord's.
The timing of Misbah's decision has raised questions over the selection committee's role in the PCB's latest overhaul. According to the reports, Misbah was apparently not consulted despite being part of the national selection committee when the board decided to make major changes to the squad and coaching staff.
The PCB released seven players from the Test squad ahead of the third Test against England at Edgbaston, starting September 9. Mohammad Rizwan, Imam-ul-Haq, Salman Ali Agha, Ali Usman, Aamer Jamal, Awais Zafar and Khurram Shahzad were among those released.
Sarfaraz Ahmed and Umar Gul were also removed as head coach and bowling coach respectively.
The PCB subsequently brought in white-ball head coach Mike Hesson and bowling coach Ashley Noffke to work with the Test side for the remainder of the England tour.
Cricinfo further reported that Misbah has decided to step down from his role as a batting consultant at the National Cricket Academy in Lahore, where his contract required him to work for 180 days a year.
The extent of Pakistan's overhaul was further highlighted by the inclusion of five uncapped players in the squad for the third Test.
Arafat Minhas, Mohammad Imran Jnr, Saad Baig, Mohammad Imran Randhawa and Razaullah have been added, while Saim Ayub and Abdullah Fazal have also been brought into the group. The latter two have a combined experience of only 10 Test matches.
The sweeping changes followed Pakistan's innings-and-103-run defeat in the first Test before England won the second by 194 runs. The back-to-back defeats left Pakistan 0-2 down in the three-match series and staring at a potential 3-0 clean sweep.
Misbah was appointed to the four-member national selection committee in March alongside Aaqib Javed, Sarfaraz Ahmed and Asad Shafiq.
The former captain has previously held several senior positions within the PCB. He was appointed head coach and chief selector in 2019, before stepping down as chief selector in October 2020 and eventually leaving the head coach's position in 2021.
He returned to the PCB setup as an adviser in 2023 under the then ad hoc management committee headed by Zaka Ashraf. He was later appointed one of five mentors for the men's Champions Cup and al
According to Geo News, sources close to Misbah said the former cricketer had informed the PCB of his decision and would serve a notice period before formally stepping down. Cricinfo also reported that Misbah had offered his resignation, although the PCB is yet to accept it.
The development comes just a day after the PCB announced wholesale changes to the Pakistan Test squad and coaching staff following the team's heavy 194-run defeat to England at Lord's.
The timing of Misbah's decision has raised questions over the selection committee's role in the PCB's latest overhaul. According to the reports, Misbah was apparently not consulted despite being part of the national selection committee when the board decided to make major changes to the squad and coaching staff.
The PCB released seven players from the Test squad ahead of the third Test against England at Edgbaston, starting September 9. Mohammad Rizwan, Imam-ul-Haq, Salman Ali Agha, Ali Usman, Aamer Jamal, Awais Zafar and Khurram Shahzad were among those released.
Sarfaraz Ahmed and Umar Gul were also removed as head coach and bowling coach respectively.
The PCB subsequently brought in white-ball head coach Mike Hesson and bowling coach Ashley Noffke to work with the Test side for the remainder of the England tour.
Cricinfo further reported that Misbah has decided to step down from his role as a batting consultant at the National Cricket Academy in Lahore, where his contract required him to work for 180 days a year.
The extent of Pakistan's overhaul was further highlighted by the inclusion of five uncapped players in the squad for the third Test.
Arafat Minhas, Mohammad Imran Jnr, Saad Baig, Mohammad Imran Randhawa and Razaullah have been added, while Saim Ayub and Abdullah Fazal have also been brought into the group. The latter two have a combined experience of only 10 Test matches.
The sweeping changes followed Pakistan's innings-and-103-run defeat in the first Test before England won the second by 194 runs. The back-to-back defeats left Pakistan 0-2 down in the three-match series and staring at a potential 3-0 clean sweep.
Misbah was appointed to the four-member national selection committee in March alongside Aaqib Javed, Sarfaraz Ahmed and Asad Shafiq.
The former captain has previously held several senior positions within the PCB. He was appointed head coach and chief selector in 2019, before stepping down as chief selector in October 2020 and eventually leaving the head coach's position in 2021.
He returned to the PCB setup as an adviser in 2023 under the then ad hoc management committee headed by Zaka Ashraf. He was later appointed one of five mentors for the men's Champions Cup and al
11 days ago
'T20 players included for Tests': Shahid Afridi, Shoaib Malik slam Pakistan selectors over squad selection amid chaos in England tour originally appeared on Cricket News. Add Cricket News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
Shahid Afridi criticised PCB for including T20 specialists in Pakistan's Test squad ahead of the Edgbaston decider.
Afridi also questioned the decision to sack head coach Sarfaraz Ahmed after just five Test matches in charge.
Seven players were released overall, with only two experienced additions among the new faces brought into the squad.
Shoaib Malik labelled PCB's decision 'ridiculous'.
#afridi #Cricket #players
Shahid Afridi criticised PCB for including T20 specialists in Pakistan's Test squad ahead of the Edgbaston decider.
Afridi also questioned the decision to sack head coach Sarfaraz Ahmed after just five Test matches in charge.
Seven players were released overall, with only two experienced additions among the new faces brought into the squad.
Shoaib Malik labelled PCB's decision 'ridiculous'.
#afridi #Cricket #players
17 days ago
After a strong start to the series, England head to Lord's for the second Test against Pakistan hoping to seal the series.
In the opening Test in Headingley, the hosts dismantled Pakistan inside three days. The innings and 103-run victory handed Joe Root the perfect start to his second stint as Test captain.
Pakistan, by contrast, must win or draw simply to keep the contest alive before the finale at Edgbaston. Bowled out for 171 and 135 in Leeds, they were dismissed twice inside 86 overs.
The visitors do at least welcome back their captain. Babar Azam missed the opener with a finger injury sustained in the West Indies and aggravated during the warm-up fixture at Beckenham, but has since completed a full batting session and declared himself 90 per cent fit.
England have made one change to their squad, with Brydon Carse omitted following the incident outside a Derby nightclub and uncapped seamer Sonny Baker called up in his place.
#inside #captain #headingley #root
In the opening Test in Headingley, the hosts dismantled Pakistan inside three days. The innings and 103-run victory handed Joe Root the perfect start to his second stint as Test captain.
Pakistan, by contrast, must win or draw simply to keep the contest alive before the finale at Edgbaston. Bowled out for 171 and 135 in Leeds, they were dismissed twice inside 86 overs.
The visitors do at least welcome back their captain. Babar Azam missed the opener with a finger injury sustained in the West Indies and aggravated during the warm-up fixture at Beckenham, but has since completed a full batting session and declared himself 90 per cent fit.
England have made one change to their squad, with Brydon Carse omitted following the incident outside a Derby nightclub and uncapped seamer Sonny Baker called up in his place.
#inside #captain #headingley #root
17 days ago
A new era of English cricket begins with Stephen Fleming as head coach when Pakistan continue their tour of the country for the three-match series.
Joe Root also returns as captain following Ben Stokes' retirement and will hope for a winning start to life back in charge. The visitors are touring England for Test cricket after six years, having lost the three-match series in 2020.
STREAM: England vs. Pakistan LIVE on fubo via Willow TV
The opening Test at Headingley saw England win by an innings and 103 runs, with the two subsequent matches scheduled to be played at Lord's and Edgbaston.
How will Pakistan respond at Lord's this week?
#Cricket #series #english #stephen
Joe Root also returns as captain following Ben Stokes' retirement and will hope for a winning start to life back in charge. The visitors are touring England for Test cricket after six years, having lost the three-match series in 2020.
STREAM: England vs. Pakistan LIVE on fubo via Willow TV
The opening Test at Headingley saw England win by an innings and 103 runs, with the two subsequent matches scheduled to be played at Lord's and Edgbaston.
How will Pakistan respond at Lord's this week?
#Cricket #series #english #stephen
17 days ago
Where to watch England vs. Pakistan free live stream, TV channel, start time for 2nd Test originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
A new era of English cricket begins with Stephen Fleming as head coach when Pakistan continue their tour of the country for the three-match series.
Joe Root also returns as captain following Ben Stokes' retirement and will hope for a winning start to life back in charge. The visitors are touring England for Test cricket after six years, having lost the three-match series in 2020.
The opening Test at Headingley saw England win by an innings and 103 runs, with the two subsequent matches scheduled to be played at Lord's and Edgbaston.
How will Pakistan respond at Lord's this week?
#start #three #match
A new era of English cricket begins with Stephen Fleming as head coach when Pakistan continue their tour of the country for the three-match series.
Joe Root also returns as captain following Ben Stokes' retirement and will hope for a winning start to life back in charge. The visitors are touring England for Test cricket after six years, having lost the three-match series in 2020.
The opening Test at Headingley saw England win by an innings and 103 runs, with the two subsequent matches scheduled to be played at Lord's and Edgbaston.
How will Pakistan respond at Lord's this week?
#start #three #match
17 days ago
Nottinghamshire have signed New Zealand A international fast bowler Fraser Sheat as an overseas player for the final five County Championship games of the season.
The 28-year-old from Canterbury, who played twice for Glamorgan in 2024, is in line to mark his return to English county cricket on Thursday as Notts play Warwickshire, one of their two main Division One ******* le rivals, in a meeting of third against first at Edgbaston.
"Fraser will add to our seam resources at a key point in the season," said Nottinghamshire head coach Peter Moores, who are without England paceman Josh Tongue on Thursday.
"Six games in six weeks is a heavy workload in the last part of this season and to have depth in our seam bowling will be key to staying competitive in every game. This feels like a great opportunity for Fraser."
Sheat, who was a runner-up in New Zealand's T20 Super Smash last winter, has not played any competitive cricket since April, when he was called up by the touring New Zealand A squad to play Sri Lanka A in Hambantota in April, taking one wicket and making a useful 61 not out.
#Nottinghamshire #sheat #county #games
The 28-year-old from Canterbury, who played twice for Glamorgan in 2024, is in line to mark his return to English county cricket on Thursday as Notts play Warwickshire, one of their two main Division One ******* le rivals, in a meeting of third against first at Edgbaston.
"Fraser will add to our seam resources at a key point in the season," said Nottinghamshire head coach Peter Moores, who are without England paceman Josh Tongue on Thursday.
"Six games in six weeks is a heavy workload in the last part of this season and to have depth in our seam bowling will be key to staying competitive in every game. This feels like a great opportunity for Fraser."
Sheat, who was a runner-up in New Zealand's T20 Super Smash last winter, has not played any competitive cricket since April, when he was called up by the touring New Zealand A squad to play Sri Lanka A in Hambantota in April, taking one wicket and making a useful 61 not out.
#Nottinghamshire #sheat #county #games
26 days ago
Somerset pace bowler Jake Ball has signed a one-year contract extension which will see him stay at the County Ground until at least the end of the next season.
The 35-year-old arrived at Taunton from Nottinghamshire in 2024 and has made 59 appearances, taking 97 wickets across the three formats.
Ball helped Somerset win the T20 Blast in 2025, taking 2-39 in their six-wicket victory in the final against Hampshire at Edgbaston.
He previously played 24 times for England - four Tests, 18 one-dayers anmd twio T20 internationals - between 2016 and 2018.
Ball told the Somerset website: "Since I joined the club, we've consistently competed on all three fronts and, with the quality that we have in the squad, I'm sure that will continue in the years to come.
#ball #taking #county
The 35-year-old arrived at Taunton from Nottinghamshire in 2024 and has made 59 appearances, taking 97 wickets across the three formats.
Ball helped Somerset win the T20 Blast in 2025, taking 2-39 in their six-wicket victory in the final against Hampshire at Edgbaston.
He previously played 24 times for England - four Tests, 18 one-dayers anmd twio T20 internationals - between 2016 and 2018.
Ball told the Somerset website: "Since I joined the club, we've consistently competed on all three fronts and, with the quality that we have in the squad, I'm sure that will continue in the years to come.
#ball #taking #county
1 month ago
The Hundred women's competition, Edgbaston
MI London 120-6 (100 **** ): Henry 42 (33); Gray 2-29
Birmingham Phoenix 121-5 (94 **** ): Perry 62* (39); Gordon 2-20
Birmingham Phoenix won by five wickets
Scorecard. Table
#edgbaston
MI London 120-6 (100 **** ): Henry 42 (33); Gray 2-29
Birmingham Phoenix 121-5 (94 **** ): Perry 62* (39); Gordon 2-20
Birmingham Phoenix won by five wickets
Scorecard. Table
#edgbaston
1 month ago
Former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif has suggested that the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) should keep Babar Azam away from the English media during the team's upcoming three-Test tour of England.
Latif believes Babar could come under scrutiny from the English media and has suggested that former Pakistan captain Shan Masood should handle more of the team's media interactions during the series.
"An England tour is a difficult ***** ignment, and the English media often tries to unnecessarily involve visiting teams in news stories," Rashid said while speaking to Geo News.
"Babar Azam is an experienced player, so it would be better for the PCB management to keep him away from the English media and send former captain Shan Masood to speak to them more often," he added.
"Shan has played in England and has better experience of dealing with the English media," Rashid said.
Latif's comments came after Babar made an important contribution during Pakistan's recent two-Test series against the West Indies.
Babar remained unbeaten on 58 in Pakistan's 90-run defeat in the first Test at the Brian Lara Stadium in Tarouba. Pakistan were bowled out for 120 while chasing 211, with Babar left unbeaten as the rest of the batting order collapsed.
Babar then scored 88 off 147 ***** in Pakistan's first innings of the second Test at Queen's Park Oval in Port of Spain. His innings helped Pakistan reach 387 after the West Indies had scored 344.
He followed it with an unbeaten 24 off 30 ***** in the second innings as Pakistan chased down 75 to win by eight wickets and level the series 1-1.
The victory ended Pakistan's eight-match losing streak in away Tests and gave Babar his first overseas Test win since returning as captain.
Pakistan will now prepare for their England tour, with the first Test scheduled to begin at Headingley in Leeds on August 19. The second Test will be played at Lord's from August 27, while the series will conclude at Edgbaston from September 9.
#Media
Latif believes Babar could come under scrutiny from the English media and has suggested that former Pakistan captain Shan Masood should handle more of the team's media interactions during the series.
"An England tour is a difficult ***** ignment, and the English media often tries to unnecessarily involve visiting teams in news stories," Rashid said while speaking to Geo News.
"Babar Azam is an experienced player, so it would be better for the PCB management to keep him away from the English media and send former captain Shan Masood to speak to them more often," he added.
"Shan has played in England and has better experience of dealing with the English media," Rashid said.
Latif's comments came after Babar made an important contribution during Pakistan's recent two-Test series against the West Indies.
Babar remained unbeaten on 58 in Pakistan's 90-run defeat in the first Test at the Brian Lara Stadium in Tarouba. Pakistan were bowled out for 120 while chasing 211, with Babar left unbeaten as the rest of the batting order collapsed.
Babar then scored 88 off 147 ***** in Pakistan's first innings of the second Test at Queen's Park Oval in Port of Spain. His innings helped Pakistan reach 387 after the West Indies had scored 344.
He followed it with an unbeaten 24 off 30 ***** in the second innings as Pakistan chased down 75 to win by eight wickets and level the series 1-1.
The victory ended Pakistan's eight-match losing streak in away Tests and gave Babar his first overseas Test win since returning as captain.
Pakistan will now prepare for their England tour, with the first Test scheduled to begin at Headingley in Leeds on August 19. The second Test will be played at Lord's from August 27, while the series will conclude at Edgbaston from September 9.
#Media
1 month ago
Former England captain Michael Vaughan believes newly-appointed Test coach Stephen Fleming should have taken charge immediately instead of delaying his arrival until England's tour of South Africa later this year.
Fleming was named England's new Test coach after Brendon McCullum was removed from the role earlier this month, though the New Zealander has retained his position as the team's white-ball coach. However, Fleming will not oversee England during the upcoming three-Test home series against Pakistan, which begins on August 19 at Headingley.
Questioning the decision, Vaughan said England would miss an opportunity to help Fleming settle into the role before bigger ***** ignments such as the Ashes.
"Stephen Fleming is a good appointment as England's Test coach, but he should be in position for the start of the Pakistan series, rather than taking over fully for the South Africa tour in December," Vaughan wrote in the Telegraph.
"It is about the small details, gaining experience of going to grounds such as Edgbaston – which hosts an Ashes Test – getting to know people involved in English cricket and fact-finding about our game by meeting the county coaches who can help him. These are the one-per-cent details England let slip during the Brendon McCullum years but are required to win major trophies."
Vaughan also suggested that England agreeing to Fleming's preferred timeline reflected a shift in the appeal of the coaching role.
"It also suggests the England job has lost a little of its allure because he does not feel he must start immediately. It also shows a little bit of desperation that England were willing to appoint a candidate on his terms, rather than their own," he added.
Fleming arrives in England after an extraordinary stint with Chennai Super Kings in the IPL. During his 17-year ***** ociation with the franchise, he guided the team to five IPL ***** les and two Champions League trophies alongside captain MS Dhoni before stepping down earlier this month.
Vaughan, however, warned that the former New Zealand skipper would be walking into a very different environment, pointing out that England captain Joe Root does not offer the same dynamic that Dhoni did at Chennai.
"Fleming is very well respected, renowned for being a very good manager and tactician. I've seen him at the IPL, and one of the problems he might discover in English cricket is that we do not have an MS Dhoni to be his captain.
132758097
"Dhoni ran the ship at Chennai Super Kings, and Fleming had some really good backroom coaches as well. Eric Simons was a wonderful bowling coach for him, a master at getting the white ball to swing. His team was built around skill with the ball, not express pace. I wonder whether that is an indication that the skill side of bowling will come back into the England Test team rather than just out-and-out speed," Vaughan wrote.
#chennai
Fleming was named England's new Test coach after Brendon McCullum was removed from the role earlier this month, though the New Zealander has retained his position as the team's white-ball coach. However, Fleming will not oversee England during the upcoming three-Test home series against Pakistan, which begins on August 19 at Headingley.
Questioning the decision, Vaughan said England would miss an opportunity to help Fleming settle into the role before bigger ***** ignments such as the Ashes.
"Stephen Fleming is a good appointment as England's Test coach, but he should be in position for the start of the Pakistan series, rather than taking over fully for the South Africa tour in December," Vaughan wrote in the Telegraph.
"It is about the small details, gaining experience of going to grounds such as Edgbaston – which hosts an Ashes Test – getting to know people involved in English cricket and fact-finding about our game by meeting the county coaches who can help him. These are the one-per-cent details England let slip during the Brendon McCullum years but are required to win major trophies."
Vaughan also suggested that England agreeing to Fleming's preferred timeline reflected a shift in the appeal of the coaching role.
"It also suggests the England job has lost a little of its allure because he does not feel he must start immediately. It also shows a little bit of desperation that England were willing to appoint a candidate on his terms, rather than their own," he added.
Fleming arrives in England after an extraordinary stint with Chennai Super Kings in the IPL. During his 17-year ***** ociation with the franchise, he guided the team to five IPL ***** les and two Champions League trophies alongside captain MS Dhoni before stepping down earlier this month.
Vaughan, however, warned that the former New Zealand skipper would be walking into a very different environment, pointing out that England captain Joe Root does not offer the same dynamic that Dhoni did at Chennai.
"Fleming is very well respected, renowned for being a very good manager and tactician. I've seen him at the IPL, and one of the problems he might discover in English cricket is that we do not have an MS Dhoni to be his captain.
132758097
"Dhoni ran the ship at Chennai Super Kings, and Fleming had some really good backroom coaches as well. Eric Simons was a wonderful bowling coach for him, a master at getting the white ball to swing. His team was built around skill with the ball, not express pace. I wonder whether that is an indication that the skill side of bowling will come back into the England Test team rather than just out-and-out speed," Vaughan wrote.
#chennai
2 months ago
Report: Joe Root set for England Test captaincy return against Pakistan, second stint could extend to 2027 Ashes originally appeared on Cricket News. Add Cricket News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
Joe Root is set to be reappointed as England's Test captain from the Pakistan series.
His second stint could extend through to next summer's home Ashes against Australia.
Marcus Trescothick is expected to serve as interim coach at Headingley, Lord's and Edgbaston.
England have endured one of the most chaotic months in their recent history. Ben Stokes retired from international cricket during a 2-1 home defeat by New Zealand, Brendon McCullum was sacked as Test coach days later, and Andy Flower ruled himself out of replacing him.
#test
Joe Root is set to be reappointed as England's Test captain from the Pakistan series.
His second stint could extend through to next summer's home Ashes against Australia.
Marcus Trescothick is expected to serve as interim coach at Headingley, Lord's and Edgbaston.
England have endured one of the most chaotic months in their recent history. Ben Stokes retired from international cricket during a 2-1 home defeat by New Zealand, Brendon McCullum was sacked as Test coach days later, and Andy Flower ruled himself out of replacing him.
#test
2 months ago
September
7 1st Twenty20 international, Banks Home Riverside, Chester-le-Street (d/n) (18:30 BST)
9 2nd Twenty20 international, Emirates Old Trafford (d/n) (18:30 BST)
11 3rd Twenty20 international, Cardiff (14:30 BST)
14 1st ODI, Edgbaston (d/n) (12:30 BST)
#riverside #street
7 1st Twenty20 international, Banks Home Riverside, Chester-le-Street (d/n) (18:30 BST)
9 2nd Twenty20 international, Emirates Old Trafford (d/n) (18:30 BST)
11 3rd Twenty20 international, Cardiff (14:30 BST)
14 1st ODI, Edgbaston (d/n) (12:30 BST)
#riverside #street
2 months ago
England will begin their quest to regain the men's Ashes from Australia at Trent Bridge on 18 June next year, with the women's series starting six days later.
The second men's Test at Lord's begins on 30 June and the third at Edgbaston on 8 July.
The Utilita Bowl in Southampton will become the 10th UK ground to host a men's Ashes Test when the fourth Test gets under way on 21 July, with the series concluding at the Kia Oval from 29 July.
The multi-format Women's Ashes will be held from 24 June to 20 July as the two series run alongside each other like in 2023.
The men will not play any Tests in the north of England after Emirates Old Trafford and Headingley were not selected to host matches.
#ashes
The second men's Test at Lord's begins on 30 June and the third at Edgbaston on 8 July.
The Utilita Bowl in Southampton will become the 10th UK ground to host a men's Ashes Test when the fourth Test gets under way on 21 July, with the series concluding at the Kia Oval from 29 July.
The multi-format Women's Ashes will be held from 24 June to 20 July as the two series run alongside each other like in 2023.
The men will not play any Tests in the north of England after Emirates Old Trafford and Headingley were not selected to host matches.
#ashes
2 months ago
Southampton's Utilita Bowl will host its first Ashes Test in 2027 and become the tenth UK ground to hold a men’s Ashes fixture.
The series is set to begin at Trent Bridge on Friday, 18 June – the first time since 2015 that Edgbaston has not hosted the opening Ashes Test in the UK.
Lord’s will then host the second Test from 30 June, with Edgbaston taking the third on 8 July. The Utilita Bowl will stage the fourth match from 21 July with the final Test at the Kia Oval scheduled to start on 29 July.
Manchester’s Old Trafford and Headingley in Leeds were not selected to host matches in the 2027 series, but have been chosen to feature in the 2031 edition.
England are scheduled to face Pakistan in a five-match ODI series from 15-26 May before finalising their Ashes preparations in a one-off Test against Bangladesh at Lord's from 28 May.
#host
The series is set to begin at Trent Bridge on Friday, 18 June – the first time since 2015 that Edgbaston has not hosted the opening Ashes Test in the UK.
Lord’s will then host the second Test from 30 June, with Edgbaston taking the third on 8 July. The Utilita Bowl will stage the fourth match from 21 July with the final Test at the Kia Oval scheduled to start on 29 July.
Manchester’s Old Trafford and Headingley in Leeds were not selected to host matches in the 2027 series, but have been chosen to feature in the 2031 edition.
England are scheduled to face Pakistan in a five-match ODI series from 15-26 May before finalising their Ashes preparations in a one-off Test against Bangladesh at Lord's from 28 May.
#host
2 months ago
England all-rounder Jacob Bethell has been ruled out of the 2026 edition of The Hundred after sustaining a right knee injury during the recently concluded ODI series against India.
Bethell, who was retained by Birmingham Phoenix for GBP 340,000 ahead of The Hundred's inaugural player auction, had also been appointed captain for the upcoming season. However, an MRI scan conducted on Monday confirmed the extent of the injury, forcing the 22-year-old to withdraw from the tournament. He is set to begin his rehabilitation programme immediately.
The setback comes after a mixed white-ball series against India, where Bethell produced flashes of brilliance despite inconsistent returns. He struck an unbeaten 76 off 46 **** in the second T20I before finishing the ODI series with a composed 91 in the final match.
Birmingham Phoenix head coach Shane Bond admitted the franchise was disappointed to lose both its captain and one of its most influential players but stressed that Bethell's long-term recovery remains the priority.
"We're all incredibly disappointed for Jacob and gutted he won't be able to join us this year. It's frustrating to lose a player of his quality, not least your captain, this close to the tournament, but his long-term fitness has to be the priority. Everyone at the club wishes him the very best with his recovery and we look forward to seeing him back on the field as soon as possible, " Bond said in the official statement released by the franchise.
Bond also confirmed that Donovan Ferreira will take over the captaincy, backing the South African to lead the side.
"In Donovan Ferreira we have a real leader who knows what it takes to go deep into the competition. He's won it before and will be a great person for the younger members of the squad to learn from. We're lucky to have someone of his stature to step into the captaincy," he added.
Reacting to the injury, Bethell expressed his disappointment at missing the tournament, particularly the opportunity to play in front of Birmingham Phoenix supporters at Edgbaston.
"It's frustrating to miss out on The Hundred, especially representing Birmingham Phoenix in front of our supporters at Edgbaston. Unfortunately, I need to take the time to get back to full fitness, " Bethell said in the statement.
Jacob Bethell played a key role for Birmingham Phoenix during The Hundred 2025, featuring in eight matches as a middle-order all-rounder. He scored 122 runs at a strike rate of 143.53 while also picking up three wickets with his left-arm spin, impressing with his finishing ability and versatility. His performances in the tournament proved to be a springboard to international cricket, earning him selection for England's senior white-ball squads later that year.
#captain
Bethell, who was retained by Birmingham Phoenix for GBP 340,000 ahead of The Hundred's inaugural player auction, had also been appointed captain for the upcoming season. However, an MRI scan conducted on Monday confirmed the extent of the injury, forcing the 22-year-old to withdraw from the tournament. He is set to begin his rehabilitation programme immediately.
The setback comes after a mixed white-ball series against India, where Bethell produced flashes of brilliance despite inconsistent returns. He struck an unbeaten 76 off 46 **** in the second T20I before finishing the ODI series with a composed 91 in the final match.
Birmingham Phoenix head coach Shane Bond admitted the franchise was disappointed to lose both its captain and one of its most influential players but stressed that Bethell's long-term recovery remains the priority.
"We're all incredibly disappointed for Jacob and gutted he won't be able to join us this year. It's frustrating to lose a player of his quality, not least your captain, this close to the tournament, but his long-term fitness has to be the priority. Everyone at the club wishes him the very best with his recovery and we look forward to seeing him back on the field as soon as possible, " Bond said in the official statement released by the franchise.
Bond also confirmed that Donovan Ferreira will take over the captaincy, backing the South African to lead the side.
"In Donovan Ferreira we have a real leader who knows what it takes to go deep into the competition. He's won it before and will be a great person for the younger members of the squad to learn from. We're lucky to have someone of his stature to step into the captaincy," he added.
Reacting to the injury, Bethell expressed his disappointment at missing the tournament, particularly the opportunity to play in front of Birmingham Phoenix supporters at Edgbaston.
"It's frustrating to miss out on The Hundred, especially representing Birmingham Phoenix in front of our supporters at Edgbaston. Unfortunately, I need to take the time to get back to full fitness, " Bethell said in the statement.
Jacob Bethell played a key role for Birmingham Phoenix during The Hundred 2025, featuring in eight matches as a middle-order all-rounder. He scored 122 runs at a strike rate of 143.53 while also picking up three wickets with his left-arm spin, impressing with his finishing ability and versatility. His performances in the tournament proved to be a springboard to international cricket, earning him selection for England's senior white-ball squads later that year.
#captain
2 months ago
Axar Patel has picked the perfect time to remind India why he still matters after England ODI originally appeared on Cricket News. Add Cricket News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
When it mattered most, Axar Patel delivered against England in the first ODI to give India a timely lift, according to Cricket News columnist Jamie Alter.
For me, of all the Indian cricketers under pressure heading into the first ODI against England at Edgbaston, it was Axar Patel who needed to make the biggest statement.
Not for the fans. Not even for the critics. But for himself, his confidence, and to remind the selectors why he remains an important part of India's white-ball plans.
MORE:India vs England 1st ODI 2026 results, highlights and scorecard as Shubman Gill's men end miserable UK tour drought
When it mattered most, Axar Patel delivered against England in the first ODI to give India a timely lift, according to Cricket News columnist Jamie Alter.
For me, of all the Indian cricketers under pressure heading into the first ODI against England at Edgbaston, it was Axar Patel who needed to make the biggest statement.
Not for the fans. Not even for the critics. But for himself, his confidence, and to remind the selectors why he remains an important part of India's white-ball plans.
MORE:India vs England 1st ODI 2026 results, highlights and scorecard as Shubman Gill's men end miserable UK tour drought
2 months ago
TimesofIndia.com in Birmingham: All-rounders Axar Patel and Washington Sundar successfully guided Team India to a 259-run chase in the first ODI against England at Edgbaston in Birmingham on Tuesday. The six-wicket victory ended India's three-week winless streak in the UK, where they had suffered a 0-2 defeat to Ireland and a 0-4 whitewash against England in the T20I series. The win also extended India's unbeaten run against England in ODIs to six consecutive victories while ending England's seven-match winning streak at Edgbaston.
The 102-run stand between Axar and Washington for the fifth wicket, under the blazing sun, lifted the proverbial clouds that had briefly converged over India's march towards victory. In a matter of 20 minutes, India lost skipper Shubman Gill to cramps, Shreyas Iyer to a run-out, and KL Rahul, who dragged a wide delivery onto his stumps. India went from 149/2 to 160/4 in a jiffy, with the trio back in the hut. England, who had been pegged back by the 101-run partnership between Gill (80 off 75 ****** ) and Iyer (35 off 53 ****** ), were suddenly roaring in celebration, as were the 20,744 in attendance. 'Wonderwall', 'It's Coming Home' and 'Hey Jude' echoed around the ground as the FIFA World Cup fever, fuelled by Harry Kane & Co.'s run to the semi-finals, blended with England's surge at Edgbaston.
With 99 runs still required, the challenge was less about the required run rate of 4.5 an over and more about handling the sudden pressure after the loss of three quick wickets. Both Axar and Washington had just arrived at the crease and faced a daunting task. Instead of being bogged down, the southpaws, the first left-handers in India's XI after the quartet of right-handers, tackled the situation with aplomb.
The duo saw off Will Jacks and Sam Curran, with the four overs yielding just nine runs. Adil Rashid's reintroduction allowed Washington to free his arms with a boundary and a nine-run over. The next two overs, as Curran and Jacks continued, yielded 18 runs, with the duo's confidence evidently growing.
Axar was the main man at this stage. A slog sweep off Jacks and consecutive boundaries off Jofra Archer meant the runs were starting to flow comfortably. At the other end, Washington enjoyed watching his teammate bat.
"The way he batted was magical and it was a treat for me to watch from the other end," he said at the post-match press conference.
The next four overs reflected the same level-headed approach. As the fifty-run partnership came and went, the duo collected nine runs in three overs while seeing off Archer's full quota of 10 overs. The following two overs produced another 19 runs, allowing Axar and Washington to slow things down again over the next three overs.
Having navigated the chase to perfection, the duo grew in confidence and momentum, fittingly capped by Washington's cracking shot in the 45th over that sealed the match. A floated delivery from Adil Rashid was too full and in the slot for
The 102-run stand between Axar and Washington for the fifth wicket, under the blazing sun, lifted the proverbial clouds that had briefly converged over India's march towards victory. In a matter of 20 minutes, India lost skipper Shubman Gill to cramps, Shreyas Iyer to a run-out, and KL Rahul, who dragged a wide delivery onto his stumps. India went from 149/2 to 160/4 in a jiffy, with the trio back in the hut. England, who had been pegged back by the 101-run partnership between Gill (80 off 75 ****** ) and Iyer (35 off 53 ****** ), were suddenly roaring in celebration, as were the 20,744 in attendance. 'Wonderwall', 'It's Coming Home' and 'Hey Jude' echoed around the ground as the FIFA World Cup fever, fuelled by Harry Kane & Co.'s run to the semi-finals, blended with England's surge at Edgbaston.
With 99 runs still required, the challenge was less about the required run rate of 4.5 an over and more about handling the sudden pressure after the loss of three quick wickets. Both Axar and Washington had just arrived at the crease and faced a daunting task. Instead of being bogged down, the southpaws, the first left-handers in India's XI after the quartet of right-handers, tackled the situation with aplomb.
The duo saw off Will Jacks and Sam Curran, with the four overs yielding just nine runs. Adil Rashid's reintroduction allowed Washington to free his arms with a boundary and a nine-run over. The next two overs, as Curran and Jacks continued, yielded 18 runs, with the duo's confidence evidently growing.
Axar was the main man at this stage. A slog sweep off Jacks and consecutive boundaries off Jofra Archer meant the runs were starting to flow comfortably. At the other end, Washington enjoyed watching his teammate bat.
"The way he batted was magical and it was a treat for me to watch from the other end," he said at the post-match press conference.
The next four overs reflected the same level-headed approach. As the fifty-run partnership came and went, the duo collected nine runs in three overs while seeing off Archer's full quota of 10 overs. The following two overs produced another 19 runs, allowing Axar and Washington to slow things down again over the next three overs.
Having navigated the chase to perfection, the duo grew in confidence and momentum, fittingly capped by Washington's cracking shot in the 45th over that sealed the match. A floated delivery from Adil Rashid was too full and in the slot for
