 Sydney: Australian team celebrates with the Ashes trophy following the final Ashes cricket test between England and Australia in Sydney on Thursday, January 8, 2026. (Photo: IANS/X/@ICC) Sydney, (IANS) Australia claimed a 4-1 Ashes series win after securing a five-wicket victory in the fifth Test at the SCG, as Usman Khawaja bowed out as a winner in his farewell Test. After bowling England out for 342 early on day five, Australia set themselves a 160-run target to win. Chasing 160, the hosts made a brisk start, with Travis Head and Jake Weatherald putting on a 62-run opening partnership to set up Australia’s run chase. The tourists, however, spoiled Usman Khawaja’s hopes of a fairytale finish, as Josh Tongue had him chopping on to his stumps for six. Then a steady 40-run stand between Alex Carey (16 not out) and Cameron Green (22 not out) got the hosts over the line despite a brief stutter on an up-and-down fifth-day pitch. Earlier, Mitchell Starc struck with the second new ball to bring an end to England’s second innings, removing Jacob Bethell shortly after the left-hander brought up his 150. The 22-year-old Bethell shown admirable composure while batting with the tail, but Player of the Series Starc eventually found the edge on 154, with Alex Carey completing a straightforward catch behind the stumps. Several Australian batters made starts in the chase, but Travis Head (29) and Jake Weatherald (34) were both undone by Josh Tongue. A mix-up cost Marnus Labuschagne his wicket on 37, and Steve Smith (12) was beaten by a Will Jacks peach before Tongue forced Khawaja into a mistake. Carey and Green took the sting out of the final English push, with a boundary by the former through cover, finishing off the match. The victory boosts Australia's lead at the top of the World Test Championship 2025-2027 standings, now with 87.50 per cent of possible points. New Zealand's series success against the West Indies means the Black Caps sit in second place.Brief Scores: England 384 (Joe Root 160; Michael Neser 4-60) & 342 (Jacob Bethell 154; Beau Webster 3-64) lost to Australia 567 (Travis Head 163; Josh Tongue 3-97) & 161/5 (Marnus Labuschagne 37; Josh Tongue 3-42) by 5 wickets Australia clinch Ashes 4-1 after winning SCG Test by 5 wickets | MorungExpress | morungexpress.com
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PNM: Is someone interested in Brian Lara Cricket Academy? (2025-12-12T11:21:00+05:30)
 Brian Lara Cricket Academy, Tarouba. - File photoOpposition Leader Pennelope Beckles said the party is waiting patiently to see if a foreign entity would shortly express interest in the Brian Lara Cricket Academy (BLCA). She questioned the timing of the decision to ban fetes at the venue. Speaking at a media conference at the Office of the Opposition Leader, Charles Street, Port of Spain, on November 13, Beckles referenced a statement by Finance Minister Davendranath Tancoo in the 2025/2026 budget debate regarding the creation of a state-sponsored real estate investment trust (REIT). Tancoo said the measure was a landmark initiative to democratise state-owned assets, strengthen and diversify TT’s capital market and broaden public participation in national wealth creation. He said high-value income-generating properties such as land, office buildings and commercial infrastructure will be transferred into the professionally managed REIT. He said shares would be listed on the TT Stock Exchange, allowing both ordinary and institutional investors to earn regular dividends from real estate. Beckles questioned whether the BLCA was one of the high-value income-generating properties the minister was speaking of. “Let us see whether or not this is one of the projects that is going to fall under this REIT and whether we will soon see some organisation, institution, coming from abroad with an interest in cricket or an interest in something else for which the government has already discussed. Let us wait and see.” Beckles said the issue of noise pollution is not exclusive to BLCA. Beckles said there was no member of the TT public who was not concerned with noise pollution. “It doesn’t have to be Carnival or the BLCA. I’m sure if I take a poll here, there are people who may be living on streets with bars and activities who have to deal with this. Noise pollution is not just a matter here but in almost every part of the world. Some countries have dealt with it differently.” She said an app had been developed while she was planning and environment minister to monitor noise levels in Woodbrook, with the involvement of the police and residents. She said the plan had been to share the results and data with other communities. Beckles said the impression is being given that the area at BLCA that is used for cricket is being used and destroyed. “We know the area used is the carpark. If you look at the contract document for anyone who uses the stadium, it is very specific as it relates to restoring the facility to basically how it was met when you initially got the facility. There is a fee you would have to pay and if you don’t meet those requirements, then they withhold that fee.” She said several promoters would have made downpayments for state-controlled venues. “If I remember specifically, according to the document from Udecott, it is not only going to be BLCA, but also other facilities for which Udecott has responsibility. So we have to assume that the Hyatt, Invader’s Bay and any other facility managed by Udecott will no longer have any fetes.” Beckles noted the issue was not raised earlier in the year when Culture and Community Development Minister Michelle Benjamin met with promoters to discuss the way forward. She questioned why the Prime Minister was not willing to consult with the promoters on use of these state-run facilities. “These are facilities owned by the state, basically owned by the public. Yes you feel strongly about it, but why would the Prime Minister say that she will not have a meeting with the promoters? I quote ‘There will be no meeting between myself and the TTPA. The decision stands and will not be reversed.’ “That is democracy for you, that as a Prime Minister, you’re not even willing to have consultations, even if you feel very strongly about the position, because BLCA is not the personal property of the Prime Minister. But we will wait very patiently to see whether or not there is somebody who has an interest in the stadium.” Beckles said in 2023, Udecott would have said that the BLCA was not exclusively for cricket. Asked whether she thought Carnival 2026 might be in jeopardy, especially after the cancellation of the Independence Day parade, she said, “Well it must be a concern, because you are seeing this gradually... if you link these to the state of emergency (SoE) that has been extended and will end I think two weeks before Carnival. The concern is if you go back to Independence, the link was there was a concern about a security issue in relation to ministers, in relation to conspiracies, targeting members of the judiciary. If you extend the SoE and say crime is down and you know the SoE is going to end two weeks before Carnival, clearly there must be a concern. “I don’t say they might stop the two-day festival, but think about what promoters are saying at this time. BLCA is the facility where any number of fetes are held, and there was no consultation and you have stopped. You say absolutely no meeting, no alternative, no discussion.” Beckles said there were concerns about whether there could be a loss of revenue. “We all know for the average member of the public, Carnival is revenue-generating, although I’m seeing people saying it doesn't earn revenue, but that is not so. The UWI has done studies on this.” Former rural development and local government minister Faris Al-Rawi said other policies recently instituted by the government had left some stakeholders in difficulty. “Fete promoters are bawling, Carnival bands that launched their tickets in pre-sale with drinks included, the drinks have doubled in price.”Former foreign and Caricom affairs minister Dr Amery Browne said people outside TT, especially those in the diaspora and regionally, were paying attention to what was going on in TT, especially rumours of war and the split with Caricom, and so might not be inclined to attend Carnival in TT. PNM: Is someone interested in Brian Lara Cricket Academy? - Trinidad and Tobago Newsday |
The ‘Bazball’ game style has revolutionised English cricket. Australia should be nervous (2025-11-28T12:31:00+05:30)
Ronnie Das, The University of Western Australia; AudenciaThe Ashes is one of cricket’s fiercest rivalries and dates back to 1882, when England lost to Australia for the first time on home soil. So outraged were English cricket fans by the result that a newspaper carried a mock obituary of English cricket which stated: “the body will be cremated and the ashes taken to Australia”. Since then, Australia and England have fought every two years to win “the Ashes” trophy, which is in fact an 11cm tall terracotta urn. English cricket’s death and resurrection since 1882 will now face its latest challenge: the 74th Ashes series across five Tests in Australia, starting on Friday in Perth. England has only ever won the Ashes in Australia 14 times during the entire history of the rivalry, with the most recent success in 2010/11. But this England squad boasts a controversial style of Test cricket that has revolutionised Test cricket, not only in England but more broadly: “Bazball”. What is Bazball?Bazball is a phrase coined after Brendon “Baz” McCullum was hired as England coach in mid-2022. Bazball was initially shorthand for a super-aggressive mindset, which went against England’s stereotypical defensive approach to Test cricket. This high-risk, high-reward strategy has spurred England to some spectacular wins, but also brought about some disastrous defeats. It’s not just blind aggressive cricket – it is a calculated playing style. It’s also a threat Australia should not underestimate, despite a remarkable 60% win rate in the past 20 Ashes series (12 series wins compared to England’s six). Bazball in numbersI have analysed historical data to show Bazball offers a genuine opportunity for England to regain the Ashes in Australia for the first time in 15 years. Bazball’s primary strategy encourages England to bat with immense aggression. After adopting this style of play, England’s Test cricket run rate has risen from 3.24 historically to nearly 4.86 runs per over (RPO) – a massive 50% increase in scoring rate. Scoring more quickly puts pressure on opposition bowlers and fielders. It also provides more time for England’s bowlers to take the 20 wickets needed for Test victory. This reflects more of a Twenty20 cricket mentality, rather than the defensive and survival-first orthodoxy that had long dominated Test cricket. Beyond its entertainment value, Bazball has also delivered tangible results, validating this mindset. After McCullum’s appointment, England’s Test match win rate has surged from 39.2% to 60.5% – a 54% relative improvement. Before Bazball, England was winning fewer than two in every five Tests. Now they are consistently winning three or more in every five Tests. Where Bazball truly wins gamesData show interesting patterns in Bazball’s effectiveness at changing the nature of Tests in critical moments, mostly when England bats in the second and fourth innings. What is most extraordinary is what often happens in England’s fourth innings – historically Test cricket’s toughest batting challenge. Since McCullum took over as coach, England’s run rate per over in fourth innings has risen by almost three runs, to 5.76 per over. Previously, England had few victories when they were chasing a large total under pressure in the fourth innings. Now, the winning percentage has more than doubled (60% in the Bazball era compared to 28.1% historically). This pattern is also evident in second innings, where England have scored nearly additional 90 runs on an average during the Bazball era. The second innings of a game often works as a launchpad for consolidation and domination. Bazball’s sweet spot of 4.86 runs per over isn’t reckless – it’s the proven winning formula hidden in the data all along. How Australia has performed against BazballAt this stage there is not enough evidence to draw statistical conclusions about the impact Bazball has had on England’s performance against Australia. However, the drawn series in England in 2023 featured some interesting dynamics that might just be an indication of what to expect this time around. The pattern was unmistakable: every time England went into full attack mode, scoring more than 4.8 runs per over, they mostly won. At Leeds, they chased down a target at an incredible 5.08 runs per over. At The Oval, they opened with a strong 5.17 runs per over to seal victory. But when the scoring rate dropped below 4.3 runs per over, particularly at Birmingham and Lord’s, Australia triumphed. The drawn Manchester Test might be the most tantalising glimpse of what’s to come. England scored a record 592 runs at a steep 5.49 runs per over, playing cricket that looked more like a Twenty20 than a Test match. If it wasn’t for the rain, England would likely have won the series. England is likely to replicate this fearless approach in Australia. The first match is likely to set the tone, with pitch conditions at Perth’s Optus Stadium likely to favour England, while Australia is without two of its premier fast bowlers due to injuries. England’s batters will have their work cut out – during the past five years, Australia has been the most difficult country in the world to face fast bowling. Despite this, the hosts might face something they’ve rarely encountered during this series: an England side that genuinely believes it can win Down Under. Ronnie Das, Associate Professor in Data Science, Sports Analytics and AI, The University of Western Australia; Audencia This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article. |
Brian Lara receives lifetime achievement honour at CEAT Cricket Rating awards (2025-10-15T14:12:00+05:30)
 Brian Lara - West Indies batting legend Brian Lara received a lifetime achievement award at the 2025 edition of the CEAT Cricket Rating Awards in Mumbai, India, on October 7. Tyre manufacturers CEAT devised the cricket rating system in 1995, with the 2025 awards being the 27th edition of the awards ceremony. Lara, who holds the world record for the highest individual Test match score of 400, won the CEAT Cricketer of the Year award in 1996. Lara was presented with this year's lifetime achievement award by Indian legend Sunil Gavaskar. An Instagram post from CEAT Tyres on October 7 praised Lara for his outstanding career. "Some careers set records; a few set horizons," the CEAT post said. "Tonight, we honour Brian Lara with the CEAT Lifetime Achievement Award – a salute to craft, charisma, and a legacy that continues to guide how greatness is imagined." English star batsman Joe Root won CEAT's International Cricketer of the Year award, with his countryman Harry Brook copping the men's Test Batsman of the Year prize in a year which has seen him scoring over 500 runs at the Test level at an average of 53.90. The Test Bowler of the Year award went to Sri Lanka's Prabath Jayasuriya. The top One-day International (ODI) awards went to the Kiwi pair of Matt Henry (ODI Bowler of the Year) and batting star Kane Williamson (ODI Batsman of the Year). The T20 International Bowler of the Year award went to Indian leg-spinner Varun Chakravarthy, with Indian teammate Sanju Samson getting the honours as the top T20 International Batsman of the Year. Lara aside, former Indian leg-spinner BS Chandrasekhar also got a lifetime achievement award, with South Africa's Test captain Temba Bavuma receiving an award for his exemplary leadership in leading the Proteas to a World Test Championship title win over Australia in June. Indian stalwart Rohit Sharma received a special memento for leading his country to the International Cricket Council Champions Trophy earlier this year.The Indian pair of Smriti Mandhana and Deepti Sharma won the respective women's International Batter and Bowler of the Year awards. Brian Lara receives lifetime achievement honour at CEAT Cricket Rating awards - Trinidad and Tobago Newsday |
Everyone waiting for us to win World Cup, hopefully, this time we will not disappoint, says Harmanpreet (2025-09-30T12:12:00+05:30)
 Mumbai: Indian women’s team captain Harmanpreet Kaur with teammates Smriti Mandhana and Jemimah Rodrigues during the ICC Women’s ODI World Cup trophy launch event in Mumbai on Monday, August 11, 2025. (Photo: IANS) New Delhi, (IANS) India captain Harmanpreet Kaur has acknowledged the weight of expectations ahead of the 2025 Women’s ODI World Cup, adding that the team is determined not to disappoint its fans when competing in the tournament on home soil. India are preparing to chase their maiden senior women’s global title in front of their home crowds when they begin their campaign on September 30 against fellow co-hosts Sri Lanka in Guwahati. “Even when we play a World Cup, the mindset is the same: I want to do something special for my team and my country. I always motivate myself that way. Whenever I go out there, I should not feel any pressure.” “Playing a World Cup in home conditions will be a very special moment for all of us. And if we are able to win here, that will be a truly significant moment in my life, and not just for me, but for the entire country. Everyone is waiting for that moment, and hopefully this time we will not disappoint them,” said Harmanpreet on JioStar. This will also be the first time Harmanpreet will be captaining India in an ODI World Cup, with the upcoming tournament marking her fifth appearance in a global 50-over competition. “It's my fifth ODI World Cup, and getting to lead the team in a home World Cup, it can't be bigger than this. It's a home World Cup, but we do not want to put any pressure on ourselves. Our main motive is to enjoy our cricket.” “The 2017 World Cup was a game-changing World Cup for us that brought a lot of awareness in India. Now, we have a big bunch of talent, and the Women’s Premier League also played a big role in our lives. Every year has brought so much positivity to our cricket. I don’t think any player can explain how it feels when the national anthem is being played. It’s a very proud moment for me,” she said. Asked about the environment in the Indian team, Harmanpreet said, “All team members are looking quite positive. I think, along with that, even fans are looking quite positive because the amount of cricket we played in the last one and a half years shows that our team is ready for this big event. It’s important to enjoy, because no matter where you go or what tournament you play, it’s always important to enjoy your cricket.” She signed off by reflecting on her Women’s ODI World Cup appearance, which came in 2009. “That was a very special moment for me. One day, I was 18 years old, cutting a cake for my birthday, and the next day I found out that I was going to play. Representing my country in the ODI World Cup was a very big moment for me.” “Of course, I was nervous the night before, but when I entered the ground and saw the atmosphere and the crowd, it was truly special. As a young cricketer, I had always wanted to play for my country, and making my debut against Pakistan made it even more memorable because that is always a special occasion for all of us.”“The pressure on the women’s team was immense, especially for me as I was so young. It felt like playing in home conditions, and I did feel that pressure because it was such a big tournament in front of a home crowd. That experience taught me a lot, and it has helped me ever since,” she concluded. Everyone waiting for us to win World Cup, hopefully, this time we will not disappoint, says Harmanpreet | MorungExpress | morungexpress.com |
Asia Cup: One of the most special knocks of my life. Chak De India, says Tilak Varma (2025-09-29T11:29:00+05:30)
 Dubai:India Tilak Varma celebrates his fifty during the Asia Cup 2025 final match between India and Pakistan at Dubai International Cricket Stadium, in Dubai on Sunday, September 28, 2025. (Photo: IANS/Biplab Banerjee) Dubai, (IANS) India’s rising star Tilak Varma described his unbeaten 69 in the Asia Cup 2025 final against Pakistan as “one of the most special knocks” of his career. Coming in with India reeling at 20/3, Tilak delivered an innings of poise and precision under pressure to hit three fours and four sixes in a knock to be remembered for ages. While others faltered, Varma stood tall by anchoring the chase and dished out a masterclass in timing and temperament. While stitching stands of 57 and 60 with Sanju Samson (24) and Shivam Dube (33), Varma helped India cross the finish line with two balls to spare and sign off from the tournament filled with drama and intensity by winning the trophy as the competition’s lone unbeaten team – incidentally on the day they won the trophy in 2018. “It was pressure. They (Pakistan) were bowling well. They were mixing the pace up. I was breathing and trying to stay calm,” Tilak said, reflecting on the tense moments in the final. Highlighting his teammates’ contributions, he added, “Fantastic knock from Sanju Samson. The way Shivam Dube batted under pressure was important for the country. Their performance lifted the team when it mattered most.” Tilak also emphasized preparation and flexibility as key factors in handling high-pressure situations. “We have prepared for every position. You should be flexible. I was prepared to bat at any order and was backing my game. When the wickets are on the slower side, I have talked to Gautam Gambhir sir and worked hard,” he said. Describing his innings, Tilak said, “One of the most special knocks of my life. Chak De India.” He struck three boundaries and four towering sixes, anchoring the chase and guiding India to a five-wicket win to secure the nation’s ninth Asia Cup title.Tilak’s words highlighted not only his own composure under pressure but also the collective effort of the team. “The way we supported each other, planned for different situations, and stayed calm under pressure made the difference,” he added, capturing the essence of India’s triumph in one of cricket’s fiercest rivalries. Asia Cup: One of the most special knocks of my life. Chak De India, says Tilak Varma | MorungExpress | morungexpress.com |
From boycott calls to another clash: Fans await India-Pakistan repeat showdown (2025-09-16T13:05:00+05:30)
 Dubai: Pakistan's players celebrate the dismissal of India's Tilak Varma during the Asia Cup cricket match between India and Pakistan at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium in the United Arab Emirates on Sunday, September 14, 2025. (Photo: IANS/Biplab Banerjee) Dubai, September 16 (IANS) Amid boycott calls, India and Pakistan met in a high-voltage Asia Cup 2025 group-stage clash on Sunday, with the hosts cruising to a commanding seven-wicket victory in Dubai. As per the tournament format, the arch-rivals could lock horns at least twice more if both sides progress. Placed in Group A, India lead the table with four points from two wins, while Pakistan sit second with two points from one victory and one loss. With two wins, India have already sealed a Super Four berth. Pakistan, meanwhile, must beat the UAE in their final group fixture to remain in contention. If India overcome Oman in their next outing, they will advance as A1, while Pakistan will aim to secure the A2 slot with a win. That scenario would set up another blockbuster clash on September 21 in Dubai. Should both teams finish among the top two in the Super Four stage, a third meeting in the final on September 28 would be on the cards. On Sunday, India dominated with both bat and ball. Bowling first, the Indian attack restricted Pakistan to a modest 127/9. Kuldeep Yadav was the star with three wickets, while Axar Patel and Jasprit Bumrah claimed two apiece. Hardik Pandya and Varun Chakaravarthy chipped in with one each to ensure Pakistan never found momentum. In reply, India chased down the target with 25 balls to spare. Skipper Suryakumar Yadav anchored the innings with an unbeaten 47 off 37 deliveries, supported by Abhishek Sharma (31) and Tilak Varma (31). However, post-match scenes drew attention as Indian players left the field without shaking hands with their Pakistani counterparts. In his presentation speech, Suryakumar dedicated the victory to the Indian Army, expressing solidarity with the victims of the recent Pahalgam terror attack. He also stressed that the team’s stance was aligned with the Indian government and the BCCI. Reacting strongly, PCB chairman and ACC chief Mohsin Naqvi lodged a protest, demanding the immediate removal of match referee Andy Pycroft. “The PCB has lodged a complaint with the ICC regarding violations by the Match Referee of the ICC Code of Conduct and the MCC Laws pertaining to the Spirit of Cricket. We have demanded his removal from the Asia Cup,” Naqvi posted on X. With tensions running high, fans are now eagerly waiting for another India-Pakistan clash. “These matches are more than just cricket — they’re about pride, passion, and history,” said one supporter outside the stadium.All eyes will now be on how both teams conduct themselves when they meet again in the next stage. From boycott calls to another clash: Fans await India-Pakistan repeat showdown | MorungExpress | morungexpress.com |
Asia Cup: I am very excited to take the field on the front foot, says Suryakumar Yadav ahead of opener (2025-09-11T12:31:00+05:30)
 Dubai: From left to right, Oman's captain Jatinder Singh, Hong Kong's captain Yasim Murtaza, Pakistan's captain Salman Ali Agha, Afghanistan's captain Rashid Khan, India's captain Suryakumar Yadav, Sri Lanka's captain Charith Asalanka, Bangladesh's captain Litton Das, and UAE's captain Muhammad Waseem pose with the Asia Cup 2025 trophy in Dubai on Tuesday, September 9, 2025. (Photo: IANS) Abu Dhabi, September 9 (IANS) Both captains – India’s Suryakumar Yadav and Pakistan’s Salman Ali Agha – made it clear during the captains’ press conference that aggression will be a defining feature when their teams take the field as the anticipation is building for the India-Pakistan showdown at the Asia Cup 2025 on September 14 at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. India begin their campaign against the UAE on September 10, while Pakistan will line up against their archrivals four days later in Dubai. Speaking on the eve of the tournament, Suryakumar Yadav responded to questions about player temperament by underlining his philosophy, “Temper? Sir, aggression is always there on the field when we take the field. Without aggression, I do not believe one can play this sport. And I am sure, I am very excited to take the field on the front foot.” Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha echoed similar views, stressing that players should express themselves freely: “Well, you do not need to say anything to any player. Everyone is individually very different. If someone wants to be aggressive on the field, they are more than welcome to do that. When it comes to fast bowlers, they are always aggressive.” On being asked about potential changes in India’s approach, the Indian skipper dismissed any need for tweaks, “Why are you needling me? When you play a format, you need to know how good your preparation is. Why mend something that is not broken? If something has given us results, why would we need to change that aspect separately?” When pressed about the wicketkeeper choice between Sanju Samson and Jitesh Sharma for the UAE fixture, Suryakumar offered a trademark lighthearted reply, “I will message you the whole team, sir. We are taking good care of him. Do not worry, we will take the right decision tomorrow.” On India being tagged as title favourites, he was equally pragmatic: “Who said that? (favourites) I have not heard it. You have played in this format and you know how your preparations are. If your preparations are good, then you will be very confident when you take the field. We are playing Twenty20 as a team after a long time.” For Ali Agha, the tournament offers his side an opportunity to showcase a new identity. Without senior players such as Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan, the captain expressed confidence in his squad, “We are playing very good cricket. I think for almost four months, we have won three series out of four. So we are doing very well as a team and, at the same time, we are very excited. A lot of the boys will play Asia Cup for the first time, but they are ready for the challenge.” Away from the India-Pakistan focus, Afghanistan skipper Rashid Khan pointed out the logistical challenge of travel and scheduling: “To play a game in Abu Dhabi and to stay here in Dubai. You have all three games in Abu Dhabi, but your stay is in Dubai. But as a professional cricketer, you have to accept all these things. You have to be well-prepared, and you have to be mentally strong.” Sri Lankan captain Charith Asalanka, meanwhile, provided relief with a candid admission of fatigue following his team’s travel from Zimbabwe. “Right now, I feel very sleepy. I should answer it (the question) tomorrow, I think. It is really hard. We played back to back games in Zimbabwe and then travelled here straightaway. We need to have a couple of days off; I hope the coach will give us.”Sri Lanka will play their opening game on September 13 against Bangladesh, while Afghanistan face Hong Kong in the tournament opener on Tuesday in Abu Dhabi. Asia Cup: I am very excited to take the field on the front foot, says Suryakumar Yadav ahead of opener | MorungExpress | morungexpress.com |
England obliterate South Africa in historic ODI triumph | (2025-09-10T13:04:00+05:30)
 (Credit: England Cricket/X)Southampton, 10-09-2025, (IANS) England ended their ODI series against South Africa on a high with a dominant 342-run win in the final match at Southampton - setting a new record for the largest victory margin by runs in men’s ODI history. The previous record of 317 runs, set by India against Sri Lanka in 2023, was eclipsed by 25 runs. Coming into the third ODI with the series already lost 2-0, England were determined to avoid a whitewash. Sent in to bat first, they made an explosive start, reaching 100 runs in just 13.4 overs. Jamie Smith led the early charge with a brisk 62 from 48 deliveries, while Ben Duckett chipped in with a handy 31. The momentum continued as Joe Root and Jacob Bethell produced a game-changing 182-run stand. Bethell, just 21 years old, smashed his maiden international century - a stunning 110 off 82 balls - becoming the second-youngest Englishman to score a hundred in the men’s ODIs. Root added to the fireworks with a composed knock, bringing up his 19th ODI century. Jos Buttler piled on the pressure late in the innings with a blistering 62 off 32, propelling England to a mammoth 414-run total. South Africa’s chase was immediately derailed, not helped by captain Temba Bavuma being unable to bat due to a calf injury sustained while fielding. England’s pace duo Jofra Archer and Brydon Carse tore through the top order, snatching three wickets in the opening three overs. The destruction didn’t stop there. By the end of the first powerplay, South Africa had crumbled to 24 for 6, with Archer and Carse continuing their relentless spell. The only notable resistance came from a 20-run stand between Corbin Bosch and Keshav Maharaj - the visitors' highest partnership of the innings. But it was Adil Rashid who cleaned up the tail, spinning England to a historic win. Despite the heavy defeat, South Africa secured the series 2-1 - their first ODI series win on English soil since 1998. It also builds on their recent success in Australia, where they clinched a 2-1 series win. The two teams will now shift focus to the T20I leg of the tour, which begins on September 10.Brief Scores: England 414/5 in 50 overs (Jacob Bethell 110, Joe Root 100, Jos Buttler 62*, Jamie Smith 62) beat South Africa 72 all out in 20.5 overs (Jofra Archer 4-18, Adil Rashid 3-13, Brydon Carse 2-33) by 342 runs. England obliterate South Africa in historic ODI triumph | MorungExpress | morungexpress.com |
Test cricket still the best format (2025-09-08T11:47:00+05:30)
 South Africa's Temba Bavuma celebrates scoring a century. - AP Photo 08-09-2025, THE EDITOR: Congratulations to South Africa on its victory against Australia in the World Test Championship (WTC) 2025. "Big-up" to captain Temba Bavuma, I having accused him of only being in the team because of the colour of his skin and not for his performances. Boy, how wrong was I. Bavuma has led his country to its first ever major ICC title. He is in the same category as Clive Lloyd and Kapil Dev. Mind you, South Africa, a founding member of the ICC, beat fellow founding member Australia in another founding member's backyard, Lord's. Take note, West Indies. Did the cricketers complain about the pitch? Did they not have players who retired in favour of franchise cricket, or players who returned from the IPL? Did they not play in foreign conditions? Did they not play less Test matches than Australia, England and, funny enough, West Indies? Are South African players not paid less than Australia, England, India? South Africa is just like the West Indies, slightly lower, if you ask me. Diverse, multicultural, multilingual, a nation that overcame racial oppression and colonisation. What players do they have that we don't? The South African players went back to basics, they played the game, not the occasion, they ran hard between the wickets, they bowled on a good length (fourth stump), hit the splice of the Aussie batters, took their catches, the top order stood up, and they protected their wickets with their lives. They stayed in the fight no matter what. When they made 138 all out in their first innings, they fought back, bowling out Australia for a chaseable score, and in their second innings Aiden Markram learned from his duck and made up for it. Amazing, gripping final, more proof that Test cricket is the best format of the game; stop arguing. The WTC is an excellent addition to the ICC's silverware cabinet, and to keep Test cricket alive and well. I could bet big that nations like Afghanistan and Nepal will win the WTC before West Indies does. Daren Sammy, get on with the job. KENDELL, KARANChaguanas Test cricket still the best format - Trinidad and Tobago Newsday |
England panicked and their approach was wrong on final morning: Michael Vaughan (2025-08-26T12:41:00+05:30)
 London: England captain Ben Stokes addresses the post-match press conference after the fifth Test cricket match against India at The Oval in London on Monday, August 4, 2025. (Photo: IANS/Pankaj Nangia) London, August 26 (IANS) Former England captain Michael Vaughan slammed the national team's approach on the final day of the fifth Test against India, which they lost by a near six-run margin at The Oval on Monday. The veteran criticised England's high-risk approach to get the remaining 35 runs in the morning session. However, Mohammed Siraj and Prasidh Krishna bowled tight lengths and took regular wickets to edge out England in the series final to level the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy 2-2. "I do not want to be too hard on a team that has had a lot of misfortune this week. They went in without perhaps their most important-ever cricketer, and then lost a key bowler on the opening day. England lost by six runs to India, effectively playing with 10 men, so I do not want to be too critical," Vaughan wrote in his column at The Telegraph. "But the truth is, England panicked. The closer they got, within 70, they tried to be more high-risk. The approach was wrong on the final morning. It was too risky. If it takes 15 overs, so be it. You do not need to whizz 35 runs in five overs. All it needed was one steady head. Three of the last seven wickets were players dancing down the wicket to seamers. "If India lost in that fashion, we would have said they yipped up. If South Africa lost like that, we would say they choked. It was that bad a miss. The defeat will really hurt England. When you know you should win a game, it is so painful," he added.Chasing 374, England were bowled out for 367, with Siraj picking a sensational 5-104 while Krishna bagged four scalps to clinch a historic win for India. England were propped up by centuries by Harry Brook (111) and Joe Root (105), but in the end, that proved insufficient. England panicked and their approach was wrong on final morning: Michael Vaughan | MorungExpress | morungexpress.com |
Top 10 Indian Women Cricketers Created History: must know that (2025-08-01T11:27:00+05:30)
 India’s great women cricketers have not only played matches but have also put the country on the map with their performances that will go down in history. Their success combines hard work, passion, and fearless dedication. Let’s have a look at the inspirational stories of these women who changed the face of cricket in India. The world’s great Mithali Raj is the highest run-getter in women’s ODIs and the first Indian woman to cross 7000 ODI runs. She captained the Indian team in two World Cup finals, in 2005 and 2017. Having played for over 20 years at the international level, Mithali has set unprecedented standards of leadership and class in women’s cricket. Jhulan Goswami ruled the game with her pace and discipline and is now the highest wicket-taker in women’s ODIs with 255 wickets, being the first Indian woman to take 200 ODI wickets and to play in five World Cups. Her ardent performance and sportsmanship made her a real great. With her graceful batting, Smriti Mandhana stole hearts. She was the ICC Women’s Cricketer of the Year in 2018, and she became the fastest Indian woman to score 2,000 ODI runs. Today, her elegance combined with a confident disposition is what makes her loved by so many across the globe. This match-winning performance made Harmanpreet Kaur a household name – will this outshine an unbeaten 171 against Australia in the 2017 World Cup semi-final? The first female to record a T20I century was also the first Indian woman to do so. She continues to lead power and passion as captain of the Mumbai Indians in the WPL and of the Indian T20 team. Shafali Verma made history at just 15 as the youngest Indian to play a T20I. She is well known for her fearless cricket, and she was a big part of India’s run to the final in the 2020 T20 World Cup. Shafali also played in 2023, leading India to a historic win at the ICC U-19 Women’s T20 World Cup with her aggressive batting approach. Deepti Sharma of India is arguably one of the most dependable all-rounders for the nation at this point. Once, she scored a colossal 188 in a one-day international, which became the second highest by an Indian woman. India’s victories in many tight situations are well dependent on her off-spin bowling and calmness under pressure. Anjum Chopra was among the initial stars of women’s cricket in India. She was the first Indian female to score internationally beyond 1,000 runs in ODIs and captained the Indian women’s team with great poise. Her contributions were duly honored with the Padma Shri, and later she became a commentator and author to continue supporting the game. Poonam Yadav may not be among the highest in altitude, but the leg-spin is such a valuable suitor of Poonam Yadav for so many great batters in the world. She contributed a great deal to India’s winning campaign in the 2020 T20 World Cup, especially in the first match against Australia where she took four wickets. A reliable left-arm spinner, Rajeshwari Gayakwad is the epitome of the classical spinner with little pace, who doesn’t give any room for batsmen to play their shots. Five wickets for her in the 2017 World Cup quarter-final just gave India a great win. Her quiet but consistent performances have rendered her a mighty column for the bowling attack. Veda Krishnamurthy is the glamorous bruiser who is one to hit a full impact during pressure situations. In the 2017 World Cup, she played a spectacular innings against New Zealand to carry India to the semi-finals. Apart from cricket, she is a trained dancer and a motivational speaker. Top 10 Indian Women Cricketers Created History: must know that |
Joe Root surpasses Steve Smith for most Test hundreds among active cricketers (2025-07-17T11:48:00+05:30)
 The England star resumed Day 2 of the third Test against India on 99 not out and reached the milestone with a boundary off the very first delivery, slicing Jasprit Bumrah through gully for four. It was a fitting way to bring up a landmark hundred — his first of the ongoing Anderson–Tendulkar Trophy series. Root became the first player in the world to score 3,000 Test runs against India, a milestone achieved over 60 innings since his debut against them in 2012. He also equalled Steve Smith with 11 Test centuries against India, the joint-most by any batter. While Smith achieved the mark in just 46 innings, Root’s tally reflects his remarkable consistency and longevity at the highest level. Only Don Bradman (19 vs England), Jack Hobbs (12 vs Australia), and Sunil Gavaskar (13 vs West Indies) have more centuries against a single opponent in Test history. What makes Root’s feat even more special is the setting. This was his eighth Test hundred at the Lord’s, making him the leading century-maker at the iconic venue in its 141-year Test history. He overtook legends like Graham Gooch and Michael Vaughan, who each had six centuries at the ground. Root’s love affair with the Lord’s has now seen him score hundreds in three consecutive Tests at the venue, following scores of 143 and 103 in his previous two innings — a rare feat matched only by Sir Jack Hobbs and Michael Vaughan among Englishmen. With this innings, Root moved past Steve Smith (36 centuries) to become the leading Test centurion among active players. Only four players in the history of the game now stand ahead of him: Sachin Tendulkar (51), Jacques Kallis (45), Ricky Ponting (41), and Kumar Sangakkara (38). |