'If PM Modi Agrees...': Ex-Pakistan Star's Take On Champions Trophy Row

The topic of Champions Trophy 2025 is creating new headlines everyday. Pakistan have been chosen as the hosts for the tournament but the question regarding India's participation still remains unanswered. Due to the political tension between the countries, India and Pakistan are yet to play a bilateral series, since 2013. Later in 2023, India also refused to travel to Pakistan for the Asia Cup and the tournament had to co-hosted by Sri Lanka. For the Champions Trophy, Pakistan Cricket Board has refused to accept a hybrid model, which has further complicated the situation. Recently, BCCI secretary Jay Shah was also appointed as the new chairman of the International Cricket Council (ICC). His appointment is expected to play a crucial role in the Champions Trophy's future in Pakistan. 

Former Pakistan batter Basit Ali also commented on this situation and stated that the entire scenario is now dependent on Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

For the unversed, PM Modi has been invited to Pakistan for a two-day Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Heads of Governments meeting in October. 

"Now, the entire decision lies on the shoulders of PM Narendra Modi. If he agrees then India may travel to Pakistan for the Champions Trophy. Otherwise, the ball will be in ICC's court and then Jay Shah will have a tough time in taking a call," Basit Ali on his YouTube channel. 

Earlier in an interview with Sports Tak, former Pakistan spinner Danish Kaneria said that India should not travel to Pakistan for the competition and insisted that Dubai will be the better venue.

"Looking at the situation in Pakistan, I have to say that the Indian team should not go to Pakistan, and Pakistan should think about it, and then the ICC will make its decision, and most likely, it will be a hybrid model, it will played in Dubai. The media gets hype, everyone's videos get likes because the big manjan is good so it will sell. So I think this is a reality and it will definitely be a hybrid model," he said.

“The safety of the players is the first priority. The safety of the players is the first priority. Respect is the second priority. There are many things. I think BCCI is doing a great job. I think all the countries will accept the final decision. I think it will be a hybrid model,” he added.

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'Doesn't Make Sense To Me': Pak Star Reveals He Rejected PCB Selector Job

Veteran Pakistan cricket team star Shoaib Malik revealed that he rejected an offer from the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) to become a selector ahead of the T20 World Cup 2024. Malik last played for Pakistan back in 2021 but he has not retired from international cricket till now. Pakistan had a disappointing run in the T20 World Cup 2024 as they were eliminated in the group stages. The Babar Azam-led side was stunned by USA before slumping to a heavy loss against India. Malik explained that he is still playing domestic cricket and taking up the selector job now did not make sense to him.

 “I got an offer before the 2024 T20 World Cup. There was no chief selector then and the entire committee had the same power,” Malik told reporters.

"Yes, I got the offer. However, I am still playing some cricket. How can I select the cricketers with whom I am playing currently? It does not make sense to me that you are playing as well and are part of the selection committee too," he added.

Malik also said that he is not interested in playing for the Pakistan cricket team but he will continue to play domestic T20 cricket.

“I currently play just one format, and I will surely play in the domestic T20 competition. I think I can still play at the domestic level. That way, I can share my experience in a better way with the players,”

"I have already said that I am not interested in playing for Pakistan. I have already retired from Tests and ODIs. I have no interest in being part of Pakistan's T20I team. Yes, I will continue playing at the domestic level. There are a few places where I still go and play, but I have already communicated to some leagues that I won't be available. Regarding my retirement, I will leave it all at once," he said.

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Record-Breaker Joe Root Leaves Sri Lanka With Huge Task In Second Test

Joe Root set an England record of 34 Test centuries as Sri Lanka were left with a mammoth chase to win the second Test at Lord's on Saturday. Root's 103, the star batsman's second hundred of the match after he made 143 in the first innings, took England to a second-innings total of 251 all out on the third day. That left Sri Lanka needing 483 to level this three-Test series at 1-1 following England's five-wicket win at Old Trafford last week. Root was last man out after edging ahead of retired England opener Alastair Cook's mark of 33 Test centuries.

And having made the quickest century of his 145-Test career, off just 111 balls, the 33-year-old Root then held two catches at first slip before bad light ended play for the day.

Sri Lanka were 53-2 at stumps, needing 430 more runs in an unlikely quest to end a run of six successive Test defeats by England.

His seventh Test hundred at Lord's gave Root sole possession of the record for the most Test centuries at the 'Home of Cricket' he had shared with his fellow former England captains Graham Gooch and Michael Vaughan.

It was also the first time Root had made hundreds in both innings of a Test, the Yorkshireman joining the West Indies' George Headley, Gooch and Vaughan as the only batsmen to have achieved that feat at Lord's.

"That was good fun," Root told the BBC after the close. "It was obviously a nice situation when you are far ahead in the game. But you want to drive it forward and get it into as strong a position as possible."

He added: "It doesn't mean you can't score runs if everything isn't perfect and this is something I have learned. There are other ways you can be effective, you can rotate the strike, get a few boundaries away and it does get easier."

Root was embraced by his father, Matt, as he returned to the pavilion after the finish of his innings.

"Very proud and nice to share a moment with my dad walking off the field," he said.

England resumed on 25-1, already 256 runs ahead, after dismissing Sri Lanka for 196 in reply to their first-innings 427.

Pope falls cheaply again

Ollie Pope, two not out overnight, ended a run of three single-figure scores since succeeding the injured Ben Stokes as England captain at the start of this series.

But Pope, who prior to this match had spoken about the difficulties of balancing the responsibility of captaincy with his role as a No 3 batsman, gave his wicket away on 17.

Asitha Fernando dropped short and Pope backed away, only for his square slash to fly straight to Prabath Jayasuriya at deep point.

Harry Brook was dropped on nine when Nishan Madushka dropped a routine catch following a top-edged slog sweep off left-arm spinner Jayasuriya.

Jayasuriya did dismiss Brook for 37, with Madushka making no mistake at deep midwicket, and had Jamie Smith lbw for 26 after the wicketkeeper missed a sweep.

The serene Root, however, twice swept and then reverse-swept Jayasuriya for three fours in an over.

After Gus Atkinson, fresh from his maiden first-class century of 118 in the first innings, and Matthew Potts both fell in quick succession, Root -- then 88 not out -- risked running out of partners before he reached three figures.

But Olly Stone held firm, with an elated Root going to his hundred when he cut Lahiru Kumara for a 10th four before he holed out off the paceman.

That left Sri Lanka needing to make history of their own, with the highest fourth-innings total to win a match in 147 years of Test history the West Indies' 418-7 against Australia at St John's in 2002/03. The corresponding record at Lord's is the West Indies' 344-1 against England in 1984.

Although the floodlights were on, Pope deployed frontline spinner Shoaib Bashir and Root's part-time off-breaks in a bid to stop the match being halted for bad light.

But the umpires did let England's quicks bowl as Atkinson had Madushka (13) edging to Root before the injury-plagued Stone, in his first Test for three years, removed Pathum Nissanka (14) in similar fashion.

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"Why're You Doing This?": Ex-Pak Star Pleads To India Over Champions Trophy

India's visit to Pakistan for next year's Champions Trophy 2025 remains a mystery with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) yet to provide a clarity on their plans. Last year, Pakistan co-hosted the Asia Cup as the tournament was played under hybrid model after India refused to travel. India played their matches in Sri Lanka, including the one-sided final, which they won after beating the latter. Multiple reports have claimed that India is unlikely to take part in next year's showpiece event.

Reacting the reports, former Pakistan wicketkeeper-batter Kamran Akmal has claimed that if a country like Australia can play there, India too should follow the suit.

"When a team like Australia can visit Pakistan, why not India? The India-Pakistan bilateral series should happen. Both governments need to sit and talk. This will benefit cricket," Akmal told Times of India.

BCCI has time and time again said that the Indian team will only go to Pakistan if they get travel clearance from the central goverment.

Even India captain Rohit Sharma insisted that the players are ready to go anywhere, but as far as playing in Pakistan is concerned, the final call will be taken by the Indian government.

However, Akmal suggested that the Pakistan government will never stop their players from playing in India. Notably, Pakistan toured India last year for the ODI World Cup. Akmal pleaded that India should also take part in the Champions Trophy as Pakistan has put in huge effort to get cricket back to the country.

"Pehle aapne Asia Cup le liya, ab Champions Trophy ki baatein kar rahe hain. Kyun kar rahe hain aap aisa? (First you took away the Asia Cup from Pakistan; now talking about the Champions Trophy, why?) ... Pakistan has done a lot of hard work to bring cricket back to the country. If India invites Pakistan, our government will never stop us. They will say, 'Go and play.' The Indian government should do the same. Let's keep politics aside and play cricket," he added.

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"Kohli Will Truly...": Ex-Pak Star's Big 'Retirement' Wish For IND Great

Two of the finest batters of the modern era, India stars Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma enjoy a massive fan following wherever they go. However, Pakistan remains the only country where the two haven't played an international match. The two nations have not played a bilateral series since 2012-13 when Pakistan toured India for a white-ball series. On the other hand, India last visited Pakistan in 2006, but that was before either Rohit or Virat's India debut. Due to the political differences between the two nations, India and Pakistan only play each other in global and continental tournaments.

However, former Pakistan wicketkeeper-batter Kamran Akmal wants Rohit and Virat to visit Pakistan once before retiring. Akmal suggested that the love and appreciation the two will get in Pakistan will surpass everything.

"Virat and Rohit should visit Pakistan before they retire. These two are stars of world cricket, traveling across the globe to play the game. Every single fan loves them. They have a massive fan base due to their batting and match-winning performances. The fan following they will experience in Pakistan will surpass anything they've seen elsewhere," Akmal told Times of India.

For the unversed, Kohli did tour Pakistan back in his U-19 days but he was an unknown commodity back then. However, Akmal claimed that Kohli is a role model for fans across the globe, but the reception he will get in Pakistan would be unparalleled.

"Virat is a role model for many around the world, Rohit is the World Cup-winning captain, and Bumrah is currently the best pacer in the world. When players like Virat, Rohit and Bumrah visit Pakistan, it will evoke unique feelings in every fan. Virat has been to Pakistan during his under-19 days, but he wasn't as popular then," he added.

Akmal also went on to say that Pakistan fans love Indian players more than their own players.

"If Virat visits Pakistan now, he will truly see his popularity here. He will receive a different kind of support in Pakistan. No cricketer is more popular than Virat in Pakistan; he has a bigger fan-following than any other cricketer in the world. Pakistani fans love Virat, Rohit and Bumrah more than any of their own cricket team players," Akmal further explained.
 

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Atkinson's Heroics Hurt Sri Lanka Before England Bowlers Strike In 2nd Test

Gus Atkinson scored a dashing maiden century before England strengthened their grip on the second Test against Sri Lanka at Lord's on Friday. Atkinson's sparkling 118 helped take England to 427 all out in their first innings after Joe Root had made a masterful 143 on Thursday to equal the England record of 33 Test hundreds held by Alastair Cook. Sri Lanka then collapsed to 87-6 on the second day. But Kamindu Mendis, fresh from a fine 113 in Sri Lanka's five-wicket loss in the first Test at Old Trafford, made an admirable 74 to prevent complete humiliation before he was last man out in a total of 196.

All of England's pace attack took two wickets each, Matthew Potts returning figures of 2-19 in 11 overs and Chris Woakes 2-21 in 13.

Sri Lanka were 231 runs behind but stand-in England captain Ollie Pope did not enforce the follow-on, with the hosts 25-1 in their second innings at stumps -- an overall lead of 256 as they looked to go 2-0 up in a three-match series.

Ben Duckett was 15 not out with Pope, having managed just three single figure scores since replacing the injured Ben Stokes as skipper, two not out after deciding against shielding himself from the new ball with a nightwatchman.

But the day belonged to Atkinson as he cemented his love affair with Lord's. 

The 26-year-old, whose previous highest first-class score was 91 for Surrey against a Sri Lanka Development XI in 2022, only made his Test debut against the West Indies, also at Lord's, last month.

Atkinson marked that occasion with 12 wickets (7-45 and 5-61) to etch his name on the famed Lord's dressing room honours boards reserved for bowlers who take five or more wickets in a Test innings and 10 or more in a match. 

Few would have backed Atkinson to get on the equivalent honours board recognising those who score Test hundreds at the 'Home of Cricket' -- a feat that proved beyond such star batsmen as India's Sachin Tendulkar, West Indies' Brian Lara and Australia's Ricky Ponting.

Atkinson was 74 not out overnight in a Thursday stumps total of 358-7.

No 8 Atkinson carried on from where he left off, hitting two fours off Friday's first two balls, as he leg-glanced and cover-drove paceman Lahiru Kumara leg-glanced for a pair of textbook boundaries.

But to the third he was given out lbw, only for Australian umpire Paul Reiffel's decision to be reversed by a review indicating the ball would have missed leg stump.

Atkinson went to his century in storybook fashion, driving Kumara down the ground into the pavilion for another four -- his 11th in a century completed in just 103 balls and also featuring four sixes.

A spectacular innings came to a spectacular end when Atkinson mistimed a pull off an Asitha Fernando bouncer and was brilliantly caught by a diving Milan Rathnayake as he launched himself towards the rope.

Atkinson walked off to a rousing reception, having faced just 115 balls.

Fernando ended the innings by dismissing Olly Stone to secure his place on the honours boards with a return of 5-102 in 21 overs.  

Sri Lanka openers Nishan Madushka and Dimuth Karunaratne then both played on for seven before wickets continued to tumble.

But in-form left-hander Mendis, again batting curiously low in the order at No 7, hooked three sixes off recalled quick Stone, the last injuring an MCC member in the pavilion, during a 120-ball innings also featuring eight fours. 

Dropped on 62 when Root floored a routine chance in the deep, the 25-year-old eventually holed out off Atkinson to round off a memorable day for the fast bowler.

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Shaheen Released From Pak's Test Squad For 2nd Ban Test. PCB Reveals Reason

Pakistan have released left-arm fast-bowling spearhead Shaheen Shah Afridi from their Test squad in Rawalpindi. Shaheen was left out of the 12-man squad selected by Pakistan for their ongoing second Test against Bangladesh, which saw Day One being washed out due to persistent rain at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium. In its statement, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) said the Test team management has decided to release Shaheen from the squad to allow him to spend time with his family. It is to be noted that on Day Four of the first Test at Rawalpindi, which Pakistan lost by ten wickets to Bangladesh, Shaheen's son Aliyaar was born.

In the first Test against Bangladesh, Shaheen claimed two wickets in the first innings but failed to take any scalps in the second innings to end with match figures of 2-96. Since the start of 2023, Shaheen's form in Test cricket has been patchy - 16 wickets from five Tests at an average of 40.81, as compared to him taking 115 wickets in 30 matches while averaging 27.08.

The Shan Masood-led side has included left-arm pacer Mir Hamza and leg-spinner Abrar Ahmed in place of Shaheen in its 12-member squad for the second Test. Pakistan must win the ongoing game at Rawalpindi to square the two-match series against Bangladesh. A drawn affair, especially due to rains forecasted on days four and five, will give Bangladesh a historic first Test series victory over Pakistan.

Both teams are in the bottom half of the 2023-2025 World Test Championship standings with Bangladesh at number seven and Pakistan at number eight, just above the last-placed West Indies. Pakistan hasn't won a home Test match since beating South Africa in December 2021.

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India's Schedule At Paralympics 2024, August 30: Massive Chance For Medals

India's schedule at Paris Paralympics 2024, August 30: The Indian contingent has a great chance to open its medal account at the Paris Paralympics 2024 on Friday. Shooter Avani Lekhara, who won gold at Tokyo Paralympics, will be in action. Apart from her, Karamjyoti and Sakshi Kasana will compete in the Women's Discus Throw - F55 Final. Preethi Pal will compete in Women's 100m - T35 Final. Manu will play in Men's Shot Put - F37 Final. Arshad Shaik will compete in Men's C2 3000m Individual Pursuit Qualifying. (Paris Paralympics 2024 medals tally)

Para Badminton

12 PM: Manasi Joshi vs Oksana Kozyna (Ukraine) in Women's Singles SL3 Group Play Stage

1:20 PM: Manoj Sarkar vs Mongkhon Bunsun (Thailand) in Men's Singles SL3 Group Play Stage

2 PM: Nitesh Kumar vs Jianyuan Yang (China) in Men's Singles SL3 Group Play Stage

2:40 PM: Suhas Lalinakere Yathiraj vs Kyung Hwan Shin (Korea) in Men's Singles SL4 Group Play Stage

4:40 PM: Palak Kohli vs Leani Ratri Oktila (Indonesia) in Women's Singles SL4 Group Play Stage

7:30 PM: Thulasimathi Murugesan vs Beatriz Monteiro (Portugal) in Women's Singles SU5 Group Play Stage

8:10 PM: Sivarajan Solaimalai vs Man Kai Chu in Men's Singles SH6 Group Play Stage

8:50 PM: Nithya Sre Sumathy Sivan vs Yi-Lin Cai (Chinese Taipei) in Women's Singles SH6 Group Play Stage

10:50 PM: Krishna Nagar vs Miles Krajewski in Men's Singles SH6 Group Play Stage

12:10 AM (31 August, Saturday): Nitesh Kumar/Thulasimathi Murugesan vs Lucas Mazur/Faustine Noel (France) in Mixed Doubles SL3-SU5 Group Play Stage

12:10 AM (31 August, Saturday): Suhas Lalinakere Yathiraj/Palak Kohli vs Hikmat Ramdani/Leani Ratri Oktila (Indonesia) in Mixed Doubles SL3-SU5 Group Play Stage

01:30 AM (31 August, Saturday): Sivarajan Solaimalai/Nithya Sre Sumathy Sivan vs Natthapong Meechai/Chai Saeyang (Thailand) in Mixed Doubles SH6 Group Play Stage

Para Shooting

12:30 PM: Avani Lekhara, Mona Agarwal in Women's 10m Air Rifle Standing SH1 Qualification

2:45 PM: Rudransh Khandelwal, Manish Narwal in Men's 10m Air Pistol SH1 Qualification

3:15 PM: Avani Lekhara, Mona Agarwal in Women's 10m Air Rifle Standing SH1 Final (If qualified)

5 PM: Sriharsha Devaraddi Ramakrishna in Mixed 10m Air Rifle Standing SH2 Qualification

5:30 PM: Rudransh Khandelwal, Manish Narwal in Men's 10m Air Pistol SH1 Final (If qualified)

7:45 PM: Sriharsha Devaraddi Ramakrishna in Mixed 10m Air Rifle Standing SH2 Final (If qualified)

Para Athletics

1:30 PM: Jyoti Karam, Sakshi Kasana in Women's Discus Throw - F55 Final

4:45 PM: Preethi Pal in Women's 100m - T35 Final

12:22 AM: Manu in Men's Shot Put - F37 Final

Para Rowing

3 PM: Anita/Narayana Konganapalle in PR3 Mixed Double Sculls Heats

Para Archery

3:03 PM: Sarita vs Nur Jannaton Abdul Jalil (Malaysia) in Women's Individual Compound Open 1/16 Elimination

Para Cycling Track

4:24 PM: Arshad Shaik in Men's C2 3000m Individual Pursuit Qualifying

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Rs 50 Crore For Rohit By LSG For IPL? Sanjiv Goenka Says, "Whether MI..."

The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 auction will be a mega one. Generally, when mega-auction happens in the IPL, the core of a team changes completely. This time, there is lot of intrigue surrounding the exact number for player who will be allowed retain by the 10 franchises from their current roster. All eyes are on Mumbai Indians. They have Suryakumar Yadav - the current India T20I captain, Rohit Sharma - the T20 World Cup winning skipper, Hardik Pandya - their designated captain and Jasprit Bumrah - senior bowler and somebody who has led India in the past. 

It would be interesting to see if MI can retain all these super stars. In the midst of this, a rumour went viral on social media that Sanjiv Goenka-owned Lucknow Super Giant is open to offer his a Rs 50 crore salary package in order to get his services. Goenka has responded to those rumours in an interview now.  

"There is a rumour going on that LSG have kept Rs 50 crore separately for Rohit Sharma. Is this true?" the anchor asked on Sports Tak. 

"You tell me one thing, do you, or anybody know, whether Rohit Sharma is coming to the auctions or not? All these speculations are without any reason. Whether Mumbai Indians will release Rohit Sharma or not, whether he is coming to the auction or not, even if he comes if you are going to use 50 per cent of your salary cap on one player, how will you manage the other 22 players?" Sanjiv Goenka asked. 

"So is he in your wishlist?" the anchor asked again. 

Goenka did not gave a straight answer. "Everybody has got a wishlist. You want best player, best captain to be in your team. It is not about wanting. What you have got and what is available. What can you do with that. This is that thing. I can want anyone but the same goes for all the franchises. You will not get everyone," he replied. 

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Shreyas Iyer Turns Into Sunil Narine Ahead Of Ban Tests - Video Goes Viral

The lack of all-rounders in the Indian cricket team has been highlighted by many over the years. Team India's struggles at ICC events over the last decade has primarily been due to the absence of multiple genuine all-round options. However, the scenario is changing, with many outright batters trying to sharpen their skills with the ball. Shreyas Iyer is one such player. Not part of Team India's T20I and Test setup at present, Iyer was spotting adding the skill of bowling to his resume in the Buchi Babu tournament match between Mumbai and TNCA XI.

Iyer, who also captained the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) to the Indian Premier League 2024 title this year, bowled in a quite similar fashion to his IPL teammate Sunil Narine. The video of Iyer's bowling has, hence, gone viral on social media, with fans highlighting the uncanny similarity between his and Narine's action.

Shreyas Iyer is bowling and that too in the style of Sunil Narine pic.twitter.com/L7QSE0Xqt8

— Pick-up Shot (@96ShreyasIyer) August 27, 2024

Iyer came into the attack for Mumbai in the 90th over, when Tamil Nadu's had put 287/5 on the scoreboard. Iyer gave away just one run in the first 5 deliveries before being dispatched for a six on the final ball by R Sonu Yadav.

Though it isn't yet known if the Knight Riders intend to retain Iyer next season, ahead of the IPL 2025 auction, the franchise might have another all-rounder in its roster if he continues to work on his bowling skills.

What social media couldn't stop talking about was the similarity between Iyer and Narine's action, and how Team India head coach Gautam Gambhir might perceive it.

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Ollie Pope Seeks Joe Root Advice On How To Balance Batting And Captaincy

Ollie Pope has asked Joe Root for guidance on how best to balance the demands of batting and captaincy after an awkward first outing as stand-in England skipper against Sri Lanka. Pope, in the first of three matches deputising for the injured Ben Stokes, led England to a five-wicket win over Sri Lanka at Old Trafford last week as they went 1-0 up with two Tests to play. Nevertheless, No 3 batsman Pope was himself twice out for six in Manchester -- the second time to an ill-judged reverse sweep.

While Stokes may be absent, the England team still features star batsman Root, who led England in a record 64 Tests from 2017-2022.

Significantly, the 33-year-old Yorkshireman scored 14 hundreds during his period in charge of what was often a struggling side.

Now, as England head into the second Test against Sri Lanka at Lord's starting Thursday, it is no surprise Pope has turned to Root for advice on how to be an effective batsman while captaining England.

"I really enjoyed the week," Pope told a pre-match press conference at Lord's on Wednesday. "The runs didn't translate for me but hopefully over the next two weeks, I can put aside my captaining when it's time to bat and focus on my batting.

"It's about having the two things separate. That's something I've spoken to Joe Root about. We just spoke about how it's more taxing in the field but it's finding a little routine and doing small things."

'Great cricket brain'

He added: "It's just finding a way to compartmentalise. Chatting to Rooty, he's obviously got a great cricket brain and is England's best batter, so we just bounced a few ideas off each other."

Since Stokes and coach Brendon McCullum joined forces, England have become known for their aggressive approach, particularly when batting.

But Root showed there was more than one way to win as his unbeaten 62 off 128 balls -- featuring just two boundaries -- anchored England's successful chase of 205 against Sri Lanka at Old Trafford on a slow pitch.

"We don't use the term 'Bazball' but we played a different style of cricket (at Old Trafford) and that's something that can keep taking us forward as a team," said Pope.

"When we can be ruthless, we've got to try and be ruthless just to win as many games as possible," the 26-year-old Surrey batsman added.

Stokes has been batting in the nets but is still a way off a return to competitive action following the hamstring tear he suffered earlier this month in The Hundred.

But Pope, whose England side for the second Test shows just one change with Olly Stone replacing injured express quick Mark Wood, believes Stokes will be fit for the post-season tours of Pakistan and New Zealand.

"Injuries are never ideal but they're also great chances for people to keep improving their game and a have a bit of time for reflection and think about what they can work on," said Pope.

"I'm sure that's exactly what he's doing in the nets. Going into that Pakistan series and then New Zealand he's going to be as fresh as anyone."

(This story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)

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Sri Lanka Bring In Lahiru Kumara, Pathum Nissanka For 2nd Test vs England

Sri Lanka have brought in Lahiru Kumara and Pathum Nissanka to their playing eleven for the second Test against England, starting at Lord's on Thursday. While Kumara replaces Vishwa Fernando, Nissanka comes in for Kusal Mendis. Mendis made 24 and 0 in the first Test at Old Trafford, while being dismissed by Mark Wood and Gus Atkinson respectively. He is replaced by Nissanka, who last played a Test match in 2022 against Australia, and averages 38.35 in this format. As per the order, Nissanka is slotted in to bat at number three.

On the other hand, Fernando picked two scalps in England's first innings but conceded 46 runs from his eight overs in the second innings, without picking a wicket. Fernando's exclusion means Sri Lanka will be without a left-arm fast-bowling option at Lord's.

The two changes mean that Dinesh Chandimal is expected to keep wickets, and if he doesn't, then Nishan Madushka will don the keeping gloves. Chandimal being fit for the second Test is big news for Sri Lanka after he retired hurt on 10 in their second innings of the series opener at Old Trafford, after having been hit on the hand by a 90mph delivery from Mark Wood. Later, Chandimal returned to bat and eventually made 79 off 119 balls.

After losing the first Test at Old Trafford by five wickets, Sri Lanka must win at Lord's to stay alive in the series. England confirmed their XI for the match on Tuesday, with tearaway pacer Olly Stone coming in for an injured Mark Wood.

Sri Lanka playing eleven for the second Test: Dimuth Karunaratne, Nishan Madushka, Pathum Nissanka, Angelo Mathews, Dinesh Chandimal, Dhananjaya de Silva (c), Kamindu Mendis, Prabath Jayasuriya, Asitha Fernando, Lahiru Kumara and Milan Rathnayake.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

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"Jay Shah Bhai I Know...": Gambhir, Others React As ICC Gets New Chairman

India head coach Gautam Gambhir, BCCI president Roger Binny, and all-rounder Hardik Pandya led the long list of joyous members of the cricketing fraternity in lauding Jay Shah, who was on Tuesday elected unopposed as the ICC Chairman. BCCI secretary Shah was elected unopposed as the next ICC head, making him the youngest ever to reach the pinnacle of global cricket administration at the age of 35. 

"Congratulations to BCCI Honorary Secretary Mr. Jay Shah for being elected unopposed as the next Independent Chair of the International Cricket Council," the BCCI posted in its official 'X', formerly twitter, handle.

Congratulations to BCCI Honorary Secretary Mr. Jay Shah for being elected unopposed as the next Independent Chair of the International Cricket Council.@JayShah pic.twitter.com/sKZw4mdRvi

— BCCI (@BCCI) August 27, 2024

Gambhir, who has taken over as head coach from Rahul Dravid, said: "Many congrats @JayShah bhai! I know world cricket will grow tremendously under your exceptional leadership!"

Many congrats @JayShah bhai! I know world cricket will grow tremendously under your exceptional leadership! pic.twitter.com/4AubdEq8Cj

— Gautam Gambhir (@GautamGambhir) August 27, 2024

Pandya, who played a pivotal role in India's recent T20 World Cup triumph wrote: "Congratulations @Jay Shah bhai on being elected as the youngest chairman of ICC.

"Look forward to seeing you take cricket to even greater heights. Your vision and drive will help ICC, just like it did with BCCI."

Congratulations @JayShah bhai on being elected as the youngest chairman of ICC. Look forward to seeing you take cricket to even greater heights. Your vision and drive will help ICC, just like it did with BCCI. https://t.co/IxXWaSpP1b

— hardik pandya (@hardikpandya7) August 27, 2024

Binny, the 1983 World Cup winner, rated Shah as a "strong pillar" of BCCI. "I take this opportunity to congratulate Mr. Jay Shah on his appointment as the independent chair of the International Cricket Council (ICC). He has been a strong pillar as the BCCI Honorary Secretary and the President of the Asian Cricket Council (ACC).

"He has been a cornerstone in ideating and implementing some of the pathbreaking initiatives in cricket. As he takes over as the ICC Chairman, I am sure his foresight and leadership will further enhance the reputation and well-being of our beloved game," he said.

Former Indian captain and head coach Anil Kumble said: "Jay Shah's election as ICC Chair marks a new chapter in global cricket. Congratulations and best wishes for the journey ahead!" Ravi Shastri, another former Indian captain and head coach, said: "Congratulations to @JayShah on being elected unopposed as ICC Chairman—the youngest ever at just 35! His experience running @BCCI will undoubtedly serve him well.

"The cricket community can be rest assured that Jay will work tirelessly to help World Cricket and @ICC to realize their full potential and take them to another level."

BCCI vice-president Rajeev Shukla added: "I would like to wish Mr. Jay Shah all the very best in his new role at the ICC. He has been a visionary and has taken great pride in making sure that the game of cricket reaches newer heights and reaches a wider audience. His forthright approach and astute leadership means the game of cricket will continue to prosper across the globe."

Veteran batter Cheteshwar Pujara wrote in his 'X' handle: "Heartiest congratulations to @JayShah on being elected as the ICC Chair. Under your visionary leadership, cricket is set to touch new heights globally." Former Indian spinner Harbhajan Singh too hailed Shah's appointment.

"Congratulations to Secretary @BCCI Shri @Jai Shah Ji on your election, unopposed, as Chairman @ICC. Confident that the ICC will benefit from your experience of handling Indian cricket. Your leadership will guide world cricket to a new height. My best wishes."

Senior batter Ajinkya Rahane said: "Congratulations Jay bhai on your appointment as the ICC chairman."

Former sports minister and BCCI administrator Anurag Thakur too congratulated Shah on his new role.

"Congratulations to our BCCI Secretary, Sh. @JayShah on your new role and responsibility as the next Chairperson of the International Cricket Council (ICC), the supreme body of cricket.

"Your elevation as the youngest-ever cricket administrator is a moment of immense pride and celebration for all Indians, serving as a testament to India's rise on the international stage," he said.

India pacer Mohammed Siraj wished Shah success in his new stint.

"A massive moment. My best wishes to @Jay Shah Sir on being elected as the new ICC chairman. May you grow to greater heights and continue doing fine work for our sport. Congratulations."

With PTI Inputs

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"Rahul Met LSG Owner, Wants Retention But...": Report Makes Big Revelation

The last season didn't end on a happy note but senior India batter KL Rahul has expressed his intentions about being retained to Lucknow Super Giants owner Sanjiv Goenka although no such assurances have been given by the top boss. Rahul, a former national team vice captain, is no longer in the scheme of things as far as India's T20 format is concerned. Rahul led LSG to play-offs in the first two IPL seasons, but it was widely believed that Gautam Gambhir's strategic acumen had a lot to do with it rather than his leadership, which got thoroughly exposed in the third season.

"Yes, Rahul came to Kolkata and met Dr Goenka at RPG head office. He has clearly told Dr Goenka that he wants to be retained. However, till BCCI comes up with retention policy, LSG management wouldn't want to chalk out their plans," an IPL Governing Council member, privy to developments in LSG, told PTI on the condition of anonymity.

"Look, Rahul wants retention but till LSG knows how many are to be retained and what's the new purse, they can't commit anyone," the IPL source said.

The LSG management was unavailable for a comment.

Last year, Rahul's animated conversation with Goenka, after a heavy defeat against Sunrisers Hyderabad, went viral although lot of people later called it a "frank discussion between owner and skipper".

It can be said that even if Rahul is retained by LSG, chances of which are minimal at the moment, he won't be the first retention.

Retaining someone like Rahul as first option could mean a sum of Rs 18 to 20 crore (if team purse is increased) would be deducted from auction purse. No franchises, currently looking at X factor players at the top, would invest that much on Rahul.

If Royal Challengers Bengaluru were serious about taking him back, he wouldn't have come to Kolkata on his own accord. It is believed that Rahul hasn't exactly got many franchises interested with his style of batting, which is sadly outdated in T20 cricket.

Apart from that, his leadership in all franchises that he has represented hasn't exactly worked well.

Last but not the least, unlike MS Dhoni, Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma or even Rishabh Pant or Suryakumar Yadav, Rahul can't actually pull in a lot of team sponsorship. Hence Rahul might have to go back into auction where he might not be a very sought after name.

It is also understood that LSG's deal with Zaheer Khan has been finalised and he will be unveiled as a mentor soon.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

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Ehsan Khan, Who Once Dismissed Dhoni, Azam, Makes History For Hong Kong

Seasoned Hong Kong spinner Ehsan Khan, who once dismissed Indian legend M.S Dhoni and current Pakistan captain Babar Azam in the Asia Cup, on Monday became the first bowler from his country to pick up 100 wickets in T20Is, making history for the Associate Member. Ehsan Khan achieved the feat during a match while claiming 4-28 against hosts Malaysia in the ongoing Malaysia Tri-Nation T20 Cup Tournament being played at the Selangor Turf Club in the Malaysian capital.

The veteran off-break bowler finished with figures of 4-0-28-4 and helped Hong Kong beat Malaysia by seven runs in Match No.6 of the tournament. According to reports, the 39-year-old Ehsan reached the 101 wickets milestone in 70 innings of 71 matches with 4-22 being his best bowling effort.

After Hong Kong managed to score a modest 153/6 in 20 overs, Ehsan got into the act and finished with figures of 4-0-28-4 to help them restrict Malaysia to 146/7 in their 20 overs.

Ehsan came into prominence in the 2018 Asia Cup when he dismissed Dhoni for a duck in Dubai, but Hong Kong lost the match by 26 runs. In that same match, Ehsan also got the wicket of Rohit Sharma, who led India to the T20 World Cup title earlier this year.

In the same tournament, Ehsan Khan dismissed the likes of Fakhar Zaman and Babar Azam during a match against Pakistan. Ehsan also accounted for Babar's wicket in the 2022 Asia Cup match at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium.

Hong Kong Cricket on Monday congratulated Ehsan Khan for his historic achievement with messages through their social media handles. "100 T20I wickets for the inspirational Ehsan Khan?? Congratulations on such a legendary achievement! " Hong Kong Cricket said on its posts on Instagram and X, formerly Twitter.

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Shaheen Afridi Takes Pakistan Captain's Hand Off His Shoulder, Video Viral

Pakistan's hopes of winning their first match in the ongoing cycle of the World Test Championship (WTC) were dashed on Sunday as Bangladesh registered a 10-wicket win in the series-opener in Rawalpindi. It was a big achievement for Bangladesh as the win was one of its kind. For the unversed, this was Bangladesh's first Test win over Pakistan home or away. The visitors now lead 1-0 in the two-match series with the series decider to be played at the same venue from August 30.

However, after the match, a video involving captain Shan Masood and star pacer Shaheen Afridi has gone viral, which has got the internet speculating that all is not well in Pakistan cricket.

In the video, Shan was standing next to Shaheen during a team hurdle when the latter removed the former's arms from his shoulders.

When there is no unity!
There is no will!#PAKvsBAN pic.twitter.com/G4m2sjLyyC

— Shaharyar Azhar (@azhar_shaharyar) August 25, 2024

This video comes a day after a clip of Shan having a heated conversation with head coach Jason Gillespie had circulated on the social media.

Recapping the match, spinners Mehidy Hasan Miraz and Shakib Al Hasan took seven wickets between them to secure Bangladesh's maiden win over Pakistan in five-day cricket.

Mehidy grabbed 4-21 and Shakib 3-44 to trigger a Pakistan collapse on the fifth day, with the home side dismissed for 146 runs in 55.5 overs.

That left Bangladesh a target of just 30 runs, which openers Zakir Hasan and Shadman Islam reached in 6.3 overs.

Mohammad Rizwan top-scored for Pakistan in the second innings with 51, including six boundaries, but the home team were staring at defeat on 108-6 at lunch.

A holiday crowd of nearly 5,000 expected Pakistan to fight out a draw but Mehidy bowled Rizwan and trapped last man Mohammad Ali for a duck in successive overs.

Zakir (15) hit the winning boundary, with Shadman at the other end unbeaten on nine, as their squad celebrated a memorable victory.

(With AFP Inputs)

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"Itna Zaleel Hue Hain": Ex-Pak Star's Meltdown On Loss vs Bangladesh

Pakistan's loss to Bangladesh in the first Test in Rawalpindi on Sunday has led to some strong reaction from former players. Bangladesh beat Pakistan by 10 wickets to register their first win over their opponents in the longest format of the game. While analysing the match, former Pakistan wicketkeeper-batter Kamran Akmal has lashed out at the players and the management for not rectifying their past mistakes. In a brutal rant, Akmal accused the players and officials for Pakistan's global humiliation in world cricket over the last five years.

"Ye to Rizwan ne 50 kiya aur scoreboard chalaya warna innings se haarte. Ye itni buri haar hai ki bhooli nahi jaegi. Aap kisi ka bura sochoge to aapke saath bhi bura hi hoga. Aapne pichle 5 saalon se kuch nahi seekha. Aap Zimbabwe se haar gaye. Pichle saal aap Asia Cup se baahar ho gaye th. Abhi aap itna zaleel hue hain world cup me, Pakistan cricket ka mazaak ban chuka hai globally. (Had Rizwan not scored a 50 and ran the scoreboard, you've would've lost by an innings. You haven't learned anything in the last 5 years. You lost to Zimbabwe. Last year, you were eliminated from Asia Cup. You were humiliated at the T20 World Cup. Made a complete mockery of Pakistan cricket)," Akmal said on his YouTube channel.

Akmal congratulated the Bangladesh players for stealing a win from the jaws of defeat by showing great temperament. On the contrary, he questioned the attitude of the Pakistan players, who were seen having a laugh in the dressing room despite losing the grip on the match.

"It was a difficult time for Bangladesh but their batters scored runs. They had to save the Test, and they not only did that but also won the game. They basically exposed Pakistan cricket. And our players were batting like club cricketers. Sorry, not even club cricketers play like this. The approach was poor. Players are having a laugh in the dressing room, there is no seriousness because they know nobody will ask anything. It seems that you are playing for fun," he added.

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"Kabutar Ki Tarah...": ICC Umpire Blasts Rizwan Over Incessant Appealing

Star Pakistan wicketkeeper Mohammad Rizwan is one of the finest batters currently. Rizwan, who is currently playing for Pakistan in a two-match Test series against Bangladesh, became the first keeper from his country to score 150 or more in a Test innings since Kamran Akmal in 2009. Apart from being a world class cricketer, Rizwan is also famous for his on-field antics. From fake cramping to incessant appealing behind the sticks, Rizwan can prove to be a bit of nuisance for the umpires.

However, Indian umpire Anil Chaudhary remains unfazed, despite Rizwan's best efforts. In a recent interaction, Chaudhary likened Rizwan to a pigeon while referring to his appeals from behind the stumps. The 59-year-old also recalled that he once told his fellow umpire not to come under pressure while officiating against Rizwan.

"Haan, maine pichle saal Asia Cup me ki thi (umpiring). Vo (Rizwan) har baat pe appeal karta hai. Lekin karta rahe. Maine dusre umpire ko bola ki ye bahut appeal karta hai dhyaan rakhna. Vo kabutar ki tarah koodta rehta hai idhar se udhar. He told me 'main dene hi waala tha but tune bola tha to mujhe yaad aa gaya.' Isn't he the one who puts something like a lipstick. (Yes, I did (umpiring) in the Asia Cup last year. He (Rizwan) appeals on every matter. But let him do that. I told the second umpire that he appeals a lot, so be careful. He keeps jumping like a pigeon. The other umpire told me 'I was about to give out but remembered what you said about him.' Isn't he the one who puts something like a lipstick (Zinc Oxide)," Chaudhary said on 2 Sloggers podcast.

He also warned Rizwan and other keepers not to make unnecessary appeals, or else, the umpires won't even give the right calls.

"Agar umpire acha hai to vo wicketkeepers ko pakad lega. Jitne bhi keepers hain aaj sun lein, faaltu ki appeal karoge to jo hoga vo bhi nahi milega. (If the umpire is good, he can outsmart the wicketkeepers. This is a warning to all the keepers, if you appeal for no reason, you won't even get the right calls)," he added.

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"Fighting...": Hayden's Charged Up Reaction To Ravi Shastri's Post

Former Australian opener Matthew Hayden said that runs will be "at the premium" and will be the point of difference during the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy series against India at home this year. The much-awaited Border-Gavaskar Trophy will commence with the first Test - a  day match - at Perth Stadium from November 22 to November 26, setting the tone for the series. India has won its last two series in Australia, held in 2018-19 and 2020-21 and could make it a hat-trick of series wins in Australia.

Speaking to the media at the CEAT Cricket Awards, Hayden said as quoted by ICC, "You look at the line-ups, and it is hard to really tell who has got the edge."

"I sense that it is going to be runs that are going to be the point of difference. So the best need to stand up in this series; runs are going to be at a premium. And I also feel like the structure of the tournament being from the west to the east is a bit of the unique way that the Australian landscape of cricket is going to be played out. It is usually the other way around. It is going to be a great summer," he added.

Hayden believes the fact that the Aussies haven't defeated India in a Test series on home soil in almost 10 years would be playing heavily on the thoughts of the Australian side.

"Look, I was seeing a reel from Ravi Shastri today on Instagram, and he was saying the Aussies had not had the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in their hands for almost a decade. Well, that is a fighting word straight away," Hayden said.

"We have not had it in our hands for two series in Australia, which is kind of the coveted grounds, not dissimilar to the (former skipper) Steve Waugh era here in 2001, where this was the hallowed turf, this was the place where Australia really wanted to come and win, and his great era did not do it."

"So there is always, and this is why I think it is such a special series, there is always this fantastic opportunity for the number one and the number two side on the World Test Championship table to go head-to-head, especially abroad, in each other's camps, and see who really has those kind of final rights to claim not only the possibility of playing the Test Championship but also who is the very best of the best, which you judge on how you tour, not so much how you play at home," concluded Hayden.

The second Test, scheduled for December 6 to 10 at Adelaide Oval, will feature the exciting day-night format under the stadium's lights. After that, fans will turn their attention to The Gabba in Brisbane for the third Test, which will be held from December 14 to 18.

The customary Boxing Day Test, set for December 26 to 30 at Melbourne's storied Melbourne Cricket Ground, will bring the series to its penultimate stage.

The fifth and final Test, taking place at the Sydney Cricket Ground from January 3 to 7, will serve as the series climax, promising a dramatic conclusion to an exciting contest.

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Assistant Coach Reveals Why Pak Didn't Use Spinner On Day 3 Of 1st Test

Pakistan assistant coach Azhar Mahmood revealed on Friday that they didn't use spinners on day three of the first Test match against Bangladesh because there was grass on the pitch at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium. During Bangladesh's first inning on day three, Khurram Shahzad led the Pakistan bowling attack after he picked up two wickets. Naseem Shah, Naseem Shah and Saim Ayub bagged one wicket each in their respective spells after the end of the third day. Speaking at the post-day press conference, Mahmood said that the team management thought the grass on the wicket would favour the seamers.

"The reason we didn't play a spinner was there was grass on the pitch and we thought it would favour the seamers. We were hoping for that. But the three hours the pitch was sunned before the game started on the first day may have made a difference. The wicket dried out; we didn't think it would dry out so quickly, and that made it play differently," Mahmood was quoted by ESPNcricinfo as saying.

He added that the batters had a greater chance of making mistakes when the wicket had pace, bounce or a sharp spin.

"The combination we made required a pitch with pace and bounce, and for that wicket to play like we expected. But that didn't happen. When the wicket has pace and bounce or sharp spin, there's a greater chance of the batters making mistakes. When the pitch is slow, the batters have extra time," he added.

In the match, Bangladesh won the toss and put Pakistan to bat first. After Pakistan struggled at 16/3 with the loss of their top order, including skipper Babar Azam for a duck, Saim Ayub (56 in 98 balls, with four boundaries and a six) provided support to Shakeel in bringing Pakistan back on track with a 98 run partnership. Then a 240-run partnership with Mohammed Rizwan (171* in 239 balls, with 11 fours and three sixes) and a cameo from Shaheen Shah Afridi (29* in 24 balls, with a four and two sixes) took Pakistan to a big score of 448/6.

Hasan Mahmud (2/70) and Shoriful Islam (2/77) were the top bowlers for Bangladesh.

Bangladesh ended day three at 3316/5, with Mushfiqur Rahim (55*) and Litton Das (52*) still on the crease.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

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After Retirement Speculation, KL Rahul Makes His 'Important Announcement'

Star India batter KL Rahul triggered a huge wave of speculations on social media through his recent Instagram post. "I have an announcement to make, stay tuned...", Rahul wrote on Instagram. Reacting to this, a few accounts on social media speculated that Rahul might retire from international cricket, having lost his place in India's T20 team. However, Rahul seemed have quashed all the rumours with his latest Instagram post. In truth, Rahul and his wife Athiya Shetty had organised an auction "to enrich the lives of many special children".

From jerseys to cricket bats of his present and former teammates, Rahul  and Athiya raised Rs 1.93 crores from the auction.

Virat Kohli's jersey was the most expensive buy at the auction, sold for Rs 40 lakh. In fact, the second most expensive buy, recorded at Rs 28 lakh, was also a pair of Kohli's gloves.

Three bats, one each of current and former India captains Rohit Sharma, MS Dhoni and Rahul Dravid helped raise Rs 24 lakh, Rs 13 lakh and Rs 11 lakh, respectively.

The most expensive buy at the KL Rahul-Athiya conducted auction:

Virat Kohli's jersey - 40 Lakhs.
Virat Kohli's gloves - 28 Lakhs.
Rohit Sharma's bat - 24 Lakhs.
MS Dhoni's bat - 13 Lakhs.
Rahul Dravid's bat - 11 Lakhs. pic.twitter.com/ZzPxO2yh5o

— Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) August 23, 2024

Meanwhile, Rahul wasn't a part of India's squad at the T20 World Cup 2024. After the Rohit Sharma-led Indian side lifted the trophy by beating South Africa in the final, veterans like Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Ravindra Jadeja announced their retirement. Fans feared that Rahul too might follow the suit.

The wicket-keeper batter's future as the captain of his Indian Premier League side Lucknow Super has also been subjected to intense chatter among fans and experts. Many feel that the franchise might decide to offload Rahul and look for a new captaincy face in the forthcoming mega auction. Is Rahul about to make an announcement on his IPL future?

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Rahul will next be seen in action in the Duleep Trophy, having been picked in the India 'A' Squad. He will be playing under Shubman Gill's leadership, alongside Mayank Agarwal, Riyan Parag, Dhruv Jurel, Tilak Varma, Shivam Dube, Akash Deep, Prasidh Krishna, Khaleel Ahmed, and Avesh Khan.

The wicket-batter has tough competition from Rishabh Pant and Dhruv Jurel for a spot in the Indian team. While Pant is likely to be given the wicket-keeper's role, Rahul could still make the cut in the playing XI as a non-keeper.

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Who Is Harry Singh? Son Of Ex-India Star And England's Substitute Fielder

Lancashire batter Harry Singh was one of the three substitute players to take the field for England on Day 1 of their ongoing first Test against Sri Lanka at Old Trafford, Manchester. Harry, alongside teammates Charlie Barnard and Kesh Fonseka, was selected for 12th-man duties by the Ollie Pope-led side. Harry, an opening batter, took the field early in the Test, coming on as a substitute soon after England chose to bowl first. The 20-year-old returned in the post-lunch session, filling in again when Harry Brook temporarily left the pitch in the 37th over.

Who is Harry Singh?

For the unversed, Harry is the son of former India pacer Rudra Pratap Singh Senior. No, not the one who was part of India's T20 World Cup-winning side in 2007. The RP Singh in focus here played for India in the 80s, turning up in two ODIs against Australia in 1986.

Harry Singh was born on 16th June, 2004 in Blackburn, Lancashire, England. His father had moved to the UK after his playing career came to an end. He took up coaching assignments with Lancashire County Club and the England Cricket Board (ECB).

Unlike his father, who was born in Lucknow, Harry has been making steady progress in his own cricketing career in the UK. He made his List A debut for Lancashire earlier this year in the One-Day Cup, playing all seven matches, despite not showcasing his full potential.

After signing his first professional contract with Lancashire, Harry revealed that he first picked up a bat at the age of four.

"I started playing cricket at the age of four, joined Lancashire's pathway system at eight and have been on the Lancs Academy since I was 15 - so it has been a long journey for me to reach this point," he had told.

Educated at Clitheroe Grammar School, Harry played both Under 19s Tests against Australia at Brisbane in late January and early February 2023 - a 1-0 defeat - and hit a first-innings 67 in the opener.

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Jamie Smith Edges England Ahead In First Test Against Sri Lanka

Jamie Smith's latest Test fifty took England into a narrow first-innings lead in their series opener against Sri Lanka at Old Trafford on Thursday. England were 259-6 in reply to Sri Lanka's 236, a slender advantage of 23 runs, when a combination of bad light and rain forced an early close to the second day of the three-Test series. Smith, promoted up the order to No 6 in the absence of injured captain Ben Stokes, was 72 not out -- the 24-year-old wicketkeeper's third fifty in his four Tests.

Once again he demonstrated his ability to both support an established batsman and keep the runs coming batting with the lower order.

Together with Harry Brook (56) and Chris Woakes (25), Smith shared stands of 62 and 52 respectively before both batsmen were bowled by superb deliveries from left-arm spinner Prabath Jayasuriya, who enjoyed an economical return of 2-58 in 21 overs.

After rain washed out Thursday's morning session, England were faltering at 67-3 in the 15th over, with paceman Asitha Fernando leading the way during a haul of 3-68 in 14 overs.

Sri Lanka had collapsed to 6-3, losing their first three wickets for no runs in 10 balls on Wednesday.

But their bowlers still had runs to play after captain Dhananjaya de Silva top-scored with 74 after winning the toss, while Milan Rathnayake made 72 as he set a new record for the highest score by any Test debutant batting at No 9.

Shortly after play resumed Thursday under grey skies, Asitha Fernando thought he had Dan Lawrence lbw for 10.

But Lawrence, recalled to open after Zak Crawley was sidelined with a broken finger, successfully reviewed umpire Paul Reiffel's decision on height.

Two balls later, however, the paceman's inswinger to Ben Duckett, who added just five to his overnight 13, had the left-hander leg before with Sri Lanka overturning Reiffel's original not out verdict on this occasion.

Pope bowled

Asitha Fernando's day got even better when he dismissed Ollie Pope, captaining England for the first time after Stokes was ruled out by a torn hamstring, for six with a ball that nipped back through a gap between bat and pad.

Lawrence, however, looked in good touch until on 30 he edged a ball angled across him from left-arm seamer Vishwa Fernando to diving wicketkeeper Dinesh Chandimal.

Pope's exit, however, had brought in Root, with the former England captain boasting a superb record against Sri Lanka of more than a 1,000 runs, including four hundreds, in 11 previous Tests at an average of nearly 60.

Asitha Fernando, though, ended a promising stand of 58 when Root, who had made a typically elegant 42, inside-edged an intended drive, with Chandimal diving forward to hold a fine low catch.

But new batsman Smith confidently advanced down the pitch to drive Jayasuriya for six before Brook completed a 59-ball fifty.

But on the same ground where Shane Warne bowled Mike Gatting with the 'Ball of the Century' in 1993, Jayasuriya made a bid for the modern-day equivalent by snaring Brook in stunning style.

The 25-year-old rising star had added just three runs to his tea score of 53 not out when he was turned inside out by a ball from left-armer Jayasuriya that dipped in on the line of middle and leg stumps before spinning sharply and bouncing to clip the top of off stump.

Brook's exit left England 187-5 and Woakes fell in similar fashion when clean bowled by a quicker Jayasuriya delivery that angled in and spun significantly away from the right-hander.

(This story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)

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Ashwin Says This About 'Other' Candidate Who Wanted To Be India Coach

Ravichandran Ashwin is gearing up for a big 10-Test season and the Bangladesh series next month will be his first under new head coach Gautam Gambhir, someone with whom he has also played a lot. Ashwin also admires him as one of the "heroes" of Indian cricket. "Gautam is someone I still share a very, very good relationship with. Because of the fact that he is a very straightforward and an honest guy. I think Gautam is also one of those guys that we should always be backing. He's a hero of Indian cricket," he said of the new coach, who took charge in the recent tour of Sri Lanka.

Ashwin's first state team coach WV Raman, one of the respected names in Indian cricket has been a guiding force for him. Raman, incidentally, was Gambhir's only rival for the India head coach role.

Ashwin spoke about the importance of not being over-reliant on others, and stated that it was Raman who guided him to becoming self-sufficient. To Ashwin, Raman had been the catalyst, who helped him focus his intuitive mind.

"People can give you a helping hand. But they cannot guide you through in your career, you will have to be open to fresh ideas.

"For me, WV allowed me the freedom to express, and, you know, try new things. He also taught me how and on what path I need to travel, but he never said, 'This is the path you need to travel upon'.

"So in a way, in my early days, guidance from WV ensured that I was never really over-reliant on anybody." Ashwin said getting a second opinion is never a bad idea but cricket primarily is a self-taught sport.

"If you don't have awareness of your own game and if you can't teach yourself, I think you are always going to be dependent on someone which I think is a very dangerous part.

"I am not saying people with coaches or people who are dependent don't do well in life but there is a chance of selling yourself short," he asserted.

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De Silva, Rathnayake Star In Sri Lanka Revival Against England

Dhananjaya de Silva and debutant fast bowler Milan Rathnayake both made fine fifties as Sri Lanka recovered from a dramatic top-order collapse on Wednesday's opening day of the first Test against England at Old Trafford. Sri Lanka were in dire straits at 6-3 after skipper De Silva won the toss, losing their first three wickets for no runs in 10 balls.

Yet they recovered to 236 all out, De Silva top-scoring with 74 and tailender Rathnayake, with only his third first-class fifty, close behind in making 72.

The pair checked England's progress during an eighth-wicket partnership of 63, with no other Sri Lanka batsman making more than Kusal Mendis's 24. "The captain wanted me to stay in there and support him," number 9 Rathnayake, speaking via a translator, told reporters after stumps. "That's what I did and when he got out, then I played my natural game."

Chris Woakes struck twice in an over on his way to 3-32 in 11 overs. De Silva's impressive innings ended when he turned a quicker ball from off-spinner Shoaib Bashir straight to Dan Lawrence at leg slip, with the 20-year-old taking 3-55 in 23 overs.

'Good day' for England

Ben Duckett and Lawrence, recalled in place of the injured Zak Crawley, guided England to 22-0 before bad light ended play for the day at 5:52 pm (1652 GMT). "I think it's a good day," Woakes, now the leader of England's attack following James Anderson's retirement, told Sky Sports.

"When you bowl on day one on a Test surface like that, to be batting at the end of the day I think you're really happy.

"It would have been nice to bowl them out earlier than what they got, but with the bad light we couldn't bring our quick guys on to mop up the tail."

Sri Lanka's initial collapse ensured a dream start for stand-in England captain Ollie Pope, leading his country for the first time after Ben Stokes was ruled out with a torn hamstring.

The tourists came into their first Test in England in eight years on the back of just a solitary warm-up fixture -- a defeat by the second-string England Lions -- and it was soon clear some of their batsmen could have done with more time in the middle.

Stunning slump

Sri Lanka's collapse began in the sixth over when Dimuth Karunaratne top-edged a hook off fast bowler Gus Atkinson to wicketkeeper Jamie Smith. Woakes then took two wickets in the next over, with Nishan Madushka, the other opener, driving loosely at an outswinger and edging to Joe Root at first slip as he fell for four.

Five balls later, Angelo Mathews was lbw for a duck playing no shot to a Woakes delivery that nipped back off the pitch. Mendis, by contrast, could do little else than glove a superb 93 mph (150 km/h) delivery from express quick Mark Wood that reared up from short of a length to second slip.

De Silva, however, pulled Atkinson for a commanding four and completed an impressively quick fifty off just 56 balls. He was reprieved on 65, when Smith missed a tough stumping chance off Bashir, but was out soon afterwards to leave Sri Lanka 176-8.

Nevertheless the 28-year-old Rathnayake, undaunted by the loss of his skipper, went to a 96-ball fifty in style when the left-handed batsman launched Bashir for a straight six that also took Sri Lanka past 200.

Bashir though had his revenge when Rathnayake drove him to Woakes at mid-on. Before play started there was a minute's applause in honour of Graham Thorpe, the former England batsman and assistant coach, with both teams, as well as the match officials, wearing black armbands in his honour.

Thorpe died aged 55 earlier this month after being hit by a train. His wife Amanda confirmed he had taken his own life having suffered from depression for several years.

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Rohit Beats Virat To Win 'International Cricketer Of The Year' Award In...

CEAT Cricket Rating Awards ceremony was held in Mumbai on Wednesday to celebrate the remarkable achievements of cricketing legends. India skipper Rohit Sharma on Wednesday won the CEAT Men's International Cricketer of the Year award after he helped the Men in Blue win the T20 World Cup 2024 in July. Rohit has added 14,846 runs, three double hundreds, 33 hundreds, and 87 fifties in ODIs and T20Is combined. Apart from his mouth-watering tally, Rohit is a two-time ICC T20 World Cup (2007 and 2024) and ICC Champions Trophy winner. He also holds the record for most sixes in the shortest format.

Here's a look at India's top winners at the CEAT Cricket Rating Awards:

India skipper Rohit Sharma on Wednesday won the CEAT Men's International Cricketer of the Year award after he helped the Men in Blue win the T20 World Cup 2024 in July.

Rohit's stint as India's T20I skipper was a memorable one. He overtook Dhoni as the most successful T20I captain with 49 wins in 62 matches. Dhoni had 41 victories from 72 games. Also to top it off, he led India to the ICC T20 World Cup title after a thrilling win in the final against South Africa at Barbados, ending India's ICC trophy drought of 11 years.

Youngster Yashasvi Jaiswal won the best Test batter of the year in the CEAT Awards on Wednesday following his scintillating performance in the series against England.

In England's recent tour of India, Jaiswal was the highest run scorer of the series after scoring 712 runs from 5 matches and 9 innings at a strike rate of 79.91.

The 22-year-old made his Test debut against West Indies in 2023. In the long format, he has scored 1028 runs at a strike rate of 70.07 after playing 9 matches and 16 innings.

Meanwhile, India pacer Mohammad Shami won the best ODI bowler of the year in the CEAT Awards.

Shami was the highest wicket-taker in the ODI World Cup 2023, picking up 24 wickets in just seven matches at an economy rate of 5.26.

The last few years have not been great for Shami as he spent most of the time suffering from injuries. The 33-year-old made his ODI debut in 2013 against Pakistan and picked up 195 wickets from 101 matches.

On the other hand, talisman India batter Virat Kohli on Wednesday won the best ODI batter of the year during the CEAT Cricket Rating Awards.

Kohli made his ODI debut in 2008 against Sri Lanka. Following this he has scored 13906 runs after playing 295 matches and 283 innings at a strike rate of 93.54.

In the ODI World Cup 2023, Kohli was the highest run scorer, scoring 765 runs from 11 matches at a strike rate of 90.31. During the 50-over WC, Kohli also became the first player to hit fifty ODI tons.

The last few months have been great for the Men in Blue after they successfully ended the ICC trophy drought of 11 years by winning the prestigious T20 World Cup 2024.

Former India head coach Rahul Dravid was named the CEAT Lifetime Achievement Award. His stint with the Men in Blue came to an end after India won the T20 World Cup 2024 in July.

Ravichandran Ashwin won the CEAT Men's Test Bowler of the Year. Just like Jaiswal, Ashwin displayed a stunning performance during England's tour of India with the ball. Ashwin was the highest wicket-taker with 26 dismissals by his name from the five matches.

Ashwin made his Test debut in 2011 against West Indies. Following this, he has scalped 516 wickets from 100 matches and 189 innings.

Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) skipper Shreyas Iyer won the Memento for Outstanding Leadership for TATA IPL. He helped KKR win their third IPL title in the previous season of the tournament.

Recapping the final match of the T20 World Cup 2024, Virat Kohli (76), Hardik Pandya (3/20) and Jasprit Bumrah (2/18) starred in Men in Blue's seven-run win over South Africa in the final at Barbados on June 29.

Virat's masterclass knock helped India reach 176/7 in 20 overs, while Bumrah and Pandya unleashed a pace choke on Proteas, snatching the match from a losing position to restrict Proteas to 169/8 in their 20 overs.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

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Gilchrist Names Top 3 Wicket-Keepers, Puts Dhoni After Fellow Aus Great

Legendary Australian wicket-keeper batsman Adam Gilchrist has named India great Mahendra Singh Dhoni among the three greatest wicket-keeper batsmen. However, Gilchrist mentioned one other name before he got to Dhoni. Gilchrist, who is one of cricket's greatest wicket-keeper batsmen himself, chose the name of fellow Australia great Rodney Marsh before MS Dhoni. Terming Marsh his idol, Gilchrist stated that he was his role model. The 2003 and 2007 World Cup winner appreciated Dhoni's calmness and composure, and rounded off his Top 3 with Sri Lanka's Kumar Sangakkara.

"Rodney Marsh, he was my idol. That's who I wanted to be. MS Dhoni, I like his coolness. He did it in his way, always calm. And Kumar Sangakkara. He was so classy in everything he did, batting high up the order and with his keeping skills," said Gilchrist, speaking to The Times of India.

Marsh played 96 Tests for Australia between 1970 and 1984.

Gilchrist backed Australia to win back the Border-Gavaskar Trophy when India tour Australia later in 2024. India have won the last two Test series between the two nations in Australia, and will be aiming for an unprecedented hattrick. However, whilst Gilchrist did side with his own country, he admitted that it would be a close affair that is likely to go down to the wire. India have won the last four Border-Gavaskar Trophies, all by a margin of 2-1.

"Onus is on Australia to prove they are the dominant force at home. India know how to go away and win overseas," said Gilchrist, speaking to The Times of India.

Having never beaten Australia in Australia up to a point, India have now won two series down under in succession. This time around, Gilchrist said it is too close to call.

"Naturally, I'm going to say Australia, hope they get there. But it's too close to call. It will be a close tussle," Gilchrist said.

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Olympics To Cricket: Pollard, Akeal Mimic Turkish Shooter's Viral Pose

The Paris Olympics 2024 has given sports lovers and fans around the world many memories to reminisce about. But perhaps the most iconic moment of the event did not come from a medal or a record, but from the shooting pose of Turkish shooter Yusuf Dikec, which has gone viral worldwide. Dikec's seemingly laid back approach en route to silver in the 10m air pistol mixed team event has become one of the world's most trending celebrations. Now, it has passed onto the world of cricket. And who else, but the West Indians to implement it!

Playing in The Hundred final between Oval Invincibles and Southern Brave, West Indian stars Kieron Pollard and Akeal Hosein dished out Dikec's pose during the match.

The two - playing for Southern Brave - did the celebration during the Invincibles' batting. Akeal did it first, after taking the wicket of Sam Curran. Pollard followed suit when he took the catch of Donovan Ferreira later in the innings.

The Hundred Final: As It Happened

Despite this, the Invincibles posted 147 in 100 balls, a total that would be too big an ask for the Southern Brave. Pollard was unable to contribute with the bat, getting out for a four-ball duck. Southern Brave fell short by 17 runs in the end, meaning the Oval Invincibles won their second title.

England all-rounder Sam Curran, who was voted Player of the Tournament when his nation won the 2022 T20 World Cup, was also voted the 'Most Valuable Player' of The Hundred 2024. Curran held the record of the most expensive purchase by an IPL team not too long ago, and will be aiming for a high price again in the upcoming mega auction if he isn't retained by Punjab Kings.

However, it was fellow pacer, 27-year-old Saqib Mahmood, who took three wickets and gave away just 17 runs in his 20 balls, being the hero of the final.

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India's Triple Centurion's Knock Propels Mysore Warriors To Victory

Karun Nair's electrifying century fuelled the Mysore Warriors to a commanding 27-run victory (VJD method) over the Mangaluru Dragons in the second match of the day in the Maharaja Trophy T20 league at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru on Monday. Batting first, Karun Nair's explosive 40-ball century guided Mysore to a formidable total of 226/4 in 20 overs. The Mangaluru Dragons, interrupted by rain mid-innings, were set a revised target of 166 runs in 14 overs but fell well short, suffering their second loss of the campaign.

In the first innings, the Mysore Warriors faced an early setback as Karthik C. A (11) fell to Abhilash Shetty in the third over. Despite this, opener Karthik SU (23) and captain Karun Nair (124*) accumulated 46 runs during the powerplay.

Captain leading from the front! ?

Watch #KarunNair's unbeaten knock of 124* from just 48 deliveries as they post an above par total against the Mangaluru Dragons!

Don't miss #MaharajaTrophyOnStar | LIVE NOW | Star Sports Network pic.twitter.com/h8NK1EBR26

— Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) August 19, 2024

Nair showcased blistering form, as the duo forged a 47-run partnership, the second-largest stand of the innings. Karthik S.U, who was dropped twice earlier, finally ran out of luck when MB Darshan dismissed him in the eighth over, leaving Mysore at 61/2.

Nair continued his crafty knock unfazed, sweeping and scooping his way to a rapid 27-ball half-century. At the other end, Samit Dravid (16) was scalped by Nischit Rao, just one ball after dispatching him for a maximum.

Abhilash Shetty's return to the attack saw Sumit Kumar (15) dismissed, bringing Manoj Bhandage (31*) to the crease. Bhandage remained unbeaten and played a brisk 14-ball cameo, complementing Nair's relentless assault and constructing an 85-run partnership in 29 balls.

Nair launched two sixes and a four against Paras Gurbax Arya in the 15th over before taking down Nischith Rao with three massive sixes to reach a blistering century off just 40 balls in the penultimate over. His century saw 13 fours and nine sixes.

Nair then finished the innings with authority hammering five consecutive boundaries (6, 6, 4, 4, 4) to power Mysore to an imposing 226/4 in their 20 overs.

The Mangaluru Dragons' run chase faced early setbacks. Karthik CA struck first, removing Macneil Noronha, and J Suchith outfoxed Rohit K before the fifth over.

However, Nikin Jose (32) and KV Siddharth (50) combined effectively, ensuring the chase remained within reach. KV Siddharth hit four boundaries of Vidyadhar Patil in the sixth over as the Mangaluru Dragons made it 61/2 by the end of the powerplay.

After a brief rain-induced stop in the ninth over, the match resumed with Mangaluru Dragons needing 87 runs in 33 balls to reach their revised target of 166 (VJD method). Nikin Jose departed when he was pinged on the pads by J Suchith soon after resumption derailing the 50-run partnership.

Sagar Solanki (0) went next, followed by KV Siddharth, but only after he brought up his half-century in 25 balls, leaving Mangaluru Dragons at 114/5 in 11 overs. Darshan MB put on 12 runs in six balls, to give the Dragons a flicker of hope but he was soon run out and the Mangaluru Dragons finished at 138/7.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

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"Should Focus On IPL": Ex-Pak Star's Harsh 'No Chance' Verdict On Kishan

It has been a topsy turvy year for Ishan Kishan. The wicket-keeper batter was left out of the BCCI central contracts and it looked like there is no way back to the Indian cricket team for the youngster. However, with Kishan getting included in the Duleep Trophy squad, it looks like the BCCI is willing to give him another chance to stake his claim for a spot in the national side. Kishan was quite impressive in the Buchi Babu tournament with a sensational century in the first match for Jharkhand. Ahead of the Test series against Bangladesh, former Pakistan cricket team star Basit Ali said that Kishan should not be optimistic about his chances of making a comeback in the national side and should rather concentrate on IPL.

"Ishan Kishan needs to focus on the IPL now because he doesn't have a chance of returning to the Indian team till the Australia series. In fact, there's no chance till the Champions Trophy. Let's see what happens after that," Basit Ali said on his YouTube channel.

Basit Ali also said that India will miss Cheteshwar Pujara when they take on Australia in a five-match series in November. The former Pakistan star explained that even if India manage to win the series, Pujara will be someone that they will miss considering his form and performances in the past.

"Be it 5-0, 4-1, 3-2, or 2-2, India will miss Cheteshwar Pujara. He is that player who can tire the bowlers and create a chance for the other batter at the other end to score runs," he added.

Pujara played a major role for India during the 2021-22 Test series triumph in Australia where he ended as the second highest run scorer in the series. However, he lost his spot in the team due to low scores in the next few matches.

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