India Soars to Top of World Test Championship Standings

India Soars to Top of World Test Championship Standings

India has ascended to the pinnacle of the World Test Championship (WTC) standings, as per the latest update released by the International Cricket Council (ICC) on Sunday. This elevation follows Australia’s triumph over New Zealand in the Wellington Test.

India’s dominance is reflected in their impressive points percentage of 64.58, propelling them to the top spot. New Zealand, the previous table-toppers, now occupy the second position with a points percentage of 60.00. Australia has slipped to third place, boasting a points percentage of 59.09.

India’s commanding position in the ongoing five-Test home series against England, where they hold an unassailable 3-1 lead, provides them with an opportunity to further cement their status at the summit of the WTC table. A victory in the fifth and final Test in Dharamsala, commencing on March 7, would solidify their dominance.

The WTC, inaugurated in 2019, is a two-year tournament that pits the world’s top Test-playing nations against each other in a league format. The top two teams at the conclusion of the league stage will qualify for the final, scheduled to be held in June 2023 at The Oval in London.

India’s rise to the top of the WTC standings is a testament to their consistent performances in Test cricket. Under the leadership of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, the team has achieved notable victories both at home and abroad. Their ability to adapt to different conditions and overcome challenges has been a key factor in their success.

As the WTC progresses, the competition is expected to intensify, with all teams vying for a place in the final. India’s position at the top of the table provides them with a significant advantage, but they will need to maintain their momentum and continue to perform at a high level to secure their place in the championship match.

Australia Thump New Zealand by 172 Runs in Wellington Test

Australia Thump New Zealand by 172 Runs in Wellington Test

Australia’s dominance over New Zealand continued as they secured a resounding 172-run victory in the first Test at Wellington’s Basin Reserve. Nathan Lyon’s exceptional bowling performance, coupled with Cameron Green’s match-defining innings, proved too much for the Black Caps.

Lyon, Australia’s premier spinner, wreaked havoc on the New Zealand batting lineup, claiming six wickets for 65 runs in the second innings. His victims included Rachin Ravindra, Tom Blundell, and Glenn Phillips, as he completed his 24th five-wicket haul in Test cricket.

New Zealand began the day with a daunting target of 369, but Lyon’s early strikes put them on the back foot. Daryl Mitchell and Scott Kuggeleijn offered some resistance, but Cameron Green’s dismissal of Kuggeleijn for 26 extinguished their hopes.

Despite a blow to the helmet from Green, Mitchell continued to fight, scoring 38. However, he ran out of partners as Lyon and the Australian attack quickly wrapped up the New Zealand tail.

Australia captain Pat Cummins praised Lyon’s performance, stating, “Thankfully it spun which, with Nathan in our side, is always a pretty good thing.”

This loss leaves New Zealand with only one victory in their last 24 Tests against Australia. They will now prepare for the second and final match of the series in Christchurch, starting on Friday.

New Zealand skipper Tim Southee acknowledged the need for improvement, saying, “Like every game, we’ll reflect and look at ways that we can be better in the next one.”

While Lyon’s performance was exceptional, it was Cameron Green’s brilliant innings that truly made the difference. His partnership of 116 runs with Josh Hazlewood for the tenth wicket set the foundation for Australia’s victory.

Cummins praised Green, saying, “He was amazing, he was really the difference in the end.” Green’s unbeaten knock of 170 put pressure on the bowlers and helped Australia post a total of 383 in their first innings, giving them a significant lead.

Although New Zealand fought back on day three with Glenn Phillips taking 5-45, Lyon’s experience and skill proved too much for the Black Caps on a challenging pitch.

It was Hazlewood who delivered the final blow, dismissing Mitchell with a well-directed delivery that was easily caught and bowled. This sealed Australia’s emphatic victory.

Nathan Lyon's Bounce Proves Key Weapon in Australia's Test Dominance

Nathan Lyon’s Bounce Proves Key Weapon in Australia’s Test Dominance

Nathan Lyon, Australia’s seasoned spinner, has revealed that his primary weapon is the bounce he generates from the surface, following his impressive performance with both bat and ball in the first Test against New Zealand.

Lyon’s heroics began with a crucial knock of 41 as a nightwatchman. His resilient batting propelled Australia’s score to 164, helping them set a total of 369. He then showcased his prowess with the ball, claiming the vital wickets of Tom Latham (8) and Kane Williamson (9) to reduce the Kiwis to 111/3 at the end of Day 3 in Basin Reserve.

On his second ball on Day 3, Lyon dismissed Latham with a short and wide delivery. After the day’s play, he discussed his strategy for dealing with the opposition batters.

“My biggest weapon, and it’s no secret, is my bounce all around the world. So I’ll continue to try and put some over spin on the ball and try and get the bounce and try and hit the stickers on the bat and challenge the guys’ defense on the crease. I’ve got a fair understanding of what their plan is going to be. So it’s a good opportunity for me tonight to reset some goals and reset some plans and we’ll go from there,” Lyon said.

Apart from his exceptional bowling skills, Lyon also displayed his resilience with the bat earlier in the day, scoring 41 off 46 deliveries, including six boundaries. While his knock boosted Australia’s scoreboard, the rest of the batters failed to make a significant impact in the second innings. Glenn Phillips dismissed five of Australia’s first seven batters.

Lyon acknowledged that the batters might be frustrated with the manner in which they lost their wickets.

“I dare say so. But I’ll never criticize our batters the way they go about it because they’ve been exceptional for a number of years now. But then you’ve got to give credit to the bowlers and this is my big thing. Bowlers are actually there to bowl good balls. And it’s not always the batters’ fault getting out and bowlers are allowed to come up with plans and execute and take wickets. No doubt there will be some frustration in there,” Lyon added.

WTC 2023 Squad of Indian Cricket Team in white jersey

WTC Final 2023, IND vs AUS: Expected Lineup, Playing Conditions, Venue, Match Timings

After the enthralling IPL final, all eyes are on the 2nd ICC World Test Championship final happening between India and Australia at The Oval. The one-off Test match will begin on June 7.

Both teams will be raring to go against each other. While Australia topped the WTC points table in the 2021-23 cycle with 66.67 points per cent (PCT) in 19 Tests, India made its cut for the final with 58.8 PCT after beating the Kangaroos 2-1 in the recently concluded Border-Gavaskar Trophy series at home.

Australia has a dangerous bowling attack involving pacers Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins, Scott Boland and Michael Neser. While the Indian batting looks in great form with Virat Kohli getting back to his original form and young batting sensation Shubman Gill in tremendous form. The middle order of this Indian batting also looks formidable with the resurgence of Ajinkya Rahane and Cheteshwar Pujara.

SS Ton Cricket Bat

India who lost the WTC 2021 final against New Zealand will be looking to set the record straight with winning the 2022-23 World Test Championship Final.

In this article, we will be looking at everything you need to know about the WTC 2023 final, its playing conditions, the expected lineup of both the teams and streaming information.

All you need to know about India vs Australia 2023 ICC World Test Championship final

When will India vs Australia World Test Championship final take place?

The India vs Australia World Test Championship final 2023 will take place between June 7 and 12.

Where will India vs Australia World Test Championship final take place?

The India vs Australia World Test Championship final 2023 takes place at Kennington Oval Stadium in London, England.

What time will the India vs Australia World Test Championship final begin?

The India vs Australia World Test Championship final will begin at 3:30 pm IST (11 am local time).

Where to watch the India vs Australia World Test Championship final live in India?

The India vs Australia World Test Championship final will be telecasted live on Star Sports and streamed live on Disney+Hotstar.

Will there be a reserve day for India vs Australia World Test Championship final?

Yes, the India vs Australia World Test Championship final will have a reserved day on June 12.

SS Ton Cricket Bat

What is the weather & pitch report for the World Test Championship final?

The weather forecast for Southampton states that it is likely to remain sunny with the temperature being around 17 and 20 degree Celsius. Nevertheless, there could also be light showers on Day, 3 and 4 of the WTC Final.

As for the wicket, the reports are that it could be towards the slower side of things as sessions go by. Hampshire curator Simon Lee recently shared that he would ensure that the pitch assists pace and bounces as well.

What is the overall record for India and Australia in England?

Team India has played 68 Tests in England with 9 wins, 37 losses and 22 draws. On the other hand, Australia has played 176 Tests in England with 54 wins, 54 losses and 68 draws.

What is the expected lineup of both teams for the World Test Championship final?

The expected lineup for India is as follows:

Rohit Sharma (C), Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli, Ajinkya Rahane, Ishan Kishan (wk), Ravindra Jadeja, Umesh Yadav, Mohammad Shami, Mohammad Siraj and Jaydev Unadkat.

The expected lineup for Australia is as follows:

David Warner, Usman Khawaja, Steve Smith, Marnus Labuschagne, Travis Head, Cameron Green, Alex Carey (wk), Pat Cummins (C), Nathan Lyon, Mitchell Starc and Scott Boland.

Will India finally cross the finish line? Or will Australia’s pace battery take the team towards victory?

Australia announce WTC final squad; Marsh and Harris recalled into the team

Australia announce WTC final squad; Marsh and Harris recalled into the team

The current number one Test team; Australia have announced their squad for World Test Championship final against India and the first two Tests in the Ashes. The 17-member squad comprises Test regulars like David Warner, Steve Smith, and Marnus Lambuschagne with new additions including Mitchell Marsh, Marcus Harris, and Josh Inglis.

George Bailey, chairman of selectors said, “The UK is a very different assignment from our most recent tour of India and some of the changes are based upon the conditions we are anticipating.” He further added, “We see value in revisiting the squad following the second Ashes Test given the short turnaround between the WTC final and the first Ashes Test, along with the length of the tour.”

Bailey stated, “Marcus, Josh and Mitch return to the squad and will provide valuable depth and flexibility within their respective skill sets. We see value in revisiting the squad following the second Ashes Test given the short turnaround between the WTC Final and the first Ashes Test, along with the length of the tour.”

David Warner, who is having a torrid time in the IPL has held onto his place. While Cameron Bancroft, the top run-scorer in Sheffield Shield, and Michael Neser, the second-highest wicket-taker of the tournament have not been included in the side. Additionally, Lance Morris, one of the fastest bowlers in Australia, has been ruled out through a back injury that requires at least six weeks of rest.

Australia, who will depart to the UK in late May, will trim their squad to 15 as per ICC rules for the WTC Final. That one-off marquee clash against India will be played at The Oval from June 7. The first Ashes Test will start at Edgbaston on June 20.

Updated squad for WTC final and Ashes: Pat Cummins (C), Scott Boland, Alex Carey, Cameron Green, Marcus Harris, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Mitchell Marsh, Todd Murphy, Matthew Renshaw, Steve Smith (VC), Mitchell Starc, David Warner.

Top 10 Cricket Academies for aspiring female cricketers

Top 10 Cricket Academies for aspiring female cricketers

Cricket, once considered a male-dominated sport, has been rapidly gaining popularity among women in recent years. With the rise of women’s cricket, the demand for quality training facilities and coaching has also increased. In response to this, many cricket academies have emerged across the world, dedicated to training and nurturing young female cricketers.

In this article, we will highlight the top 10 cricket academies for female players based on their facilities, coaching staff, and track record of producing successful cricketers. 

Female Cricket Academy, Mumbai, India 

Inspired by the Women’s World Cup of 2017, Vishal Yadav created Female Cricket, an exclusive cricket academy for girls in Mumbai. Receiving hundreds of inquiries from across the country asking about academies where girls could learn cricket, he saw a need for a platform that would allow young female players to pursue their dreams. 

Gargi Banerji, a former Indian National player, uses her tremendous cricket coaching experience to offer enlightening insights to the students of Female Cricket. For the convenience of its students, the academy is located in the heart of Mumbai – Shivaji Park in Dadar, with easy access to the Central, Harbor, and Western lines of the city’s railway system. 

Female Cricket Academy in Mumbai is a premier cricket institute dedicated to providing girls with the best possible cricket coaching and making their future stars. With Gargi Banerji, a former Indian National player, as its head coach, the academy offers personalized training sessions tailored to the individual needs of each student. 

It also features outdoor and indoor facilities, including bowling machines and advanced video analysis technology. The academy has a reputation for excellence and hosts several tournaments and events throughout the year, providing students with opportunities to develop their skills and win recognition on a national level. 

Sydney Cricket Academy, Sydney, Australia 

The Sydney Cricket Academy (SCA) focuses on the development and improvement of the cricketing abilities of female players regardless of their age or skill level. To achieve this, SCA offers specialized coaching services such as private and group training sessions, specialist coaching, and video analysis, all customized according to every player’s individual requirements and objectives. 

The Sydney Cricket Academy (SCA) provides female cricketers with a unique opportunity to train and compete alongside high-level male players, giving them a chance to challenge and enhance their cricketing abilities. To support these sessions, SCA has state-of-the-art facilities such as indoor and outdoor training spaces, bowling machines, and advanced video analysis technology, all of which are available exclusively for female cricketers. 

In addition to coaching and training programs, the SCA hosts various events and tournaments throughout the year, providing female cricketers with opportunities to showcase their skills and compete at a high level. 

Karnataka Institute of Cricket, Karnataka, India

Established in 1996 by Mohammed Azharuddin, KIOC was created to be a one-stop cricket academy solely for girls in Bangalore. Through offering bowling, batting, fielding, and one-on-one coaching from its team of 40 coaches, KIOC has made it its goal to help improve the cricketing skills of its students. 

Being the region’s only full-time service provider, KIOC has a distinct advantage over its competitors. Furthermore, the Indian Cricket team and Karnataka team players often come to train the academy’s students, providing them with invaluable exposure. Additionally, students from around the world come to get trained in the institute, which offers world-class facilities and is thus the best choice for aspiring cricket players. 

In addition to its excellent coaching, KIOC also offers a range of other activities designed to help students reach their maximum potential. The academy has a well-stocked library for students to learn about the history and tactical aspects of the game and offers state-of-the-art fitness equipment for students to stay in shape. 

Several sports psychology workshops are offered to help students deal with the mental challenges involved in the sport. Moreover, KIOC also hosts several tournaments throughout the year that provide the opportunity to showcase talents and demonstrate the importance of teamwork in cricket. 

ICC Global Academy, Dubai, UAE 

The ICC Global Academy for Women is a professional development and training center located in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. It is part of the International Cricket Council (ICC) and is dedicated to promoting gender equality and empowerment in cricket through education and training. The academy offers a range of courses and programs designed to enhance the skills and knowledge of women in cricket, including coaching, umpiring, scoring, and administration. It also offers leadership and management training and courses on communication, marketing, and event management. 

The ICC Global Academy for Women works closely with cricket organizations around the world to promote women’s cricket and provide opportunities for women to participate in the sport at all levels. It also supports the development of women’s cricket infrastructure, including facilities, equipment, and coaching resources. Overall, the ICC Global Academy for Women is an important initiative for promoting gender equality and empowerment in cricket and providing women with the skills and resources they need to succeed in the sport. 

The ICC Global Academy for Women was launched in 2019 as part of the ICC’s commitment to promoting gender equality in cricket. It is the first academy of its kind in the world and is aimed at providing opportunities for women to develop their skills and careers in cricket. The academy offers a range of courses and programs designed to meet women’s needs at all levels of the game. This includes coaching courses that provide participants with the skills and knowledge to coach cricket at all levels, as well as umpiring and scoring courses that teach the rules and regulations of the game. 

Overall, the ICC Global Academy for Women is an important initiative for promoting gender equality in cricket and providing women with the skills and resources they need to succeed in the sport. 

Western Storm Academy, Bristol, UK 

The Western Storm Academy for Women is the official training center for the Western Storm, a women’s cricket team based in Bristol, UK, which competes in the Women’s Cricket Super League (WCSL). This academy offers coaching and support services to female cricketers of all ages and skill levels, giving them a chance to pursue their goals of playing at a professional level. Its state-of-the-art facilities provide the highest quality training, helping players reach their full potential and succeed on the field. 

The Western Storm Academy for Women is supported by a team of highly-qualified and experienced coaches and trainers who are committed to helping female cricketers reach their full potential. The academy offers various training options, from one-on-one coaching with a coach to group sessions and team training. As well as this, the academy also provides players with access to a range of specialized support services, such as sports science and nutrition advice, to help them maximize their performance and reduce the risk of injuries. 

The Western Storm Academy for Women is a trailblazing initiative that is providing female cricketers in the South West region of England with invaluable opportunities to train and compete at a high level. This academy is helping to contribute to the growth and popularity of women’s cricket by increasing its visibility and accessibility and promoting gender equality in the sport. 

Aryan Cricket Academy, Jaipur, India 

In 2016, Aryan Rathore, a cricket enthusiast, and player for the Delhi Cricket Team, established the Aryan Cricket Academy to provide the best cricket coaching to players and help them fulfill their dreams. His passion for allowing players to showcase their talent has driven the academy’s success. 

The Aryan Cricket Academy strives to offer cricket programs for female players of all ages and abilities, from basic to professional coaching. The academy’s services include bowling, batting, fielding, individual coaching, and access to top-quality cricket equipment. Moreover, the academy utilizes modern coaching methods and technology to best equip its students with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in cricket. 

Aryan Cricket Academy also hosts several tournaments and events throughout the year that give players a chance to showcase their skills and compete at a high level. Furthermore, the academy offers scholarships to promising players with financial difficulties and gives them access to the same world-class training facilities and facilities as its other students. 

The National Cricket Academy, Bengaluru, India 

The National Cricket Academy for Women (NCAW) is a world-renowned cricket academy in Bengaluru, India, established in 2008 by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). As the first of its kind in India, NCAW is dedicated to providing world-class coaching and training facilities for women cricketers, making it a top-tier cricket academy and a leader in its field. 

With a sprawling 40-acre campus, the National Cricket Academy for Women (NCAW) is equipped with top-notch facilities, including a full-size cricket ground, practice pitches, indoor nets, gymnasium, physiotherapy unit, video analysis room, and accommodation for players and coaches. The academy also boasts an array of modern technologies, such as Hawk-Eye technology, a biomechanics lab, and a sports science lab to aid in scientific training and performance analysis. 

The National Cricket Academy for Women (NCAW) is staffed by a team of highly qualified and experienced coaches, such as former Indian cricketers and international coaches, as well as experts in fields like sports science, strength and conditioning, and sports psychology. Guest coaches from other countries are also invited to share their knowledge with the players and help further their development.

In conclusion, the National Cricket Academy for Women in Bengaluru is a world-class training facility that provides specialized coaching and training to women cricketers in India. It plays a vital role in the development of women’s cricket in the country and has produced several talented players who have gone on to represent India at the international level. 

Western Australia Female Academy, Perth, Australia

WAFA is an elite cricket academy for female athletes located in Perth, Australia. Founded in 2017 by WACA, the academy offers top-tier training and development opportunities to Western Australia’s most talented female cricketers. WAFA provides its players access to world-class WACA Ground facilities, including a cricket ground, practice pitches, indoor nets, and a gym. On top of this, there is a dedicated strength and conditioning coach as well as a physio on board to ensure the best possible physical and mental performance. 

WAFA is backed by a strong coaching team made up of former Australian cricketers, international coaches, and experts in sports science, strength & conditioning, and sports psychology. They also welcome guest coaches from other countries to share their knowledge with the players. WAFA players are carefully chosen through performance in domestic cricket and talent identification programs conducted by the WACA. The academy offers specialized training for both seasoned players and young potentials who can play for Western Australia and Australia in the international arena. 

In summary, WAFA in Perth is a top-notch training center for female cricketers of Western Australia, providing specialized coaching and guidance. It has been an integral part of women’s cricket development in the state and has successfully produced international players from the region. 

The Cricket Academy of Pathans, Delhi, India 

The Cricket Academy of Pathans, established by former Indian cricketers Irfan Pathan and his brother Yusuf Pathan, launched their women’s-exclusive facility in 2020. The CAP for Women offers professional coaching to girls and women of all ages to promote female cricket in India and inspire more females to take up the sport. High-end equipment and experienced coaches are available to provide personalized instruction and support to each player. 

The curriculum of the academy includes coaching in all aspects of cricket, including batting, bowling, fielding, fitness, and mental strength. The academy also focuses on building teamwork and leadership skills among its players. In addition to regular coaching, the CAP for Women also hosts tournaments and matches, providing players with opportunities to showcase their skills and gain valuable match experience. The academy also provides scholarships to talented players who are unable to afford the fees. 

The Cricket Academy of Pathans for Women is an incredible opportunity for female cricketers in Delhi. It allows girls and women to cultivate their cricketing abilities, build confidence, and reach their full potential. This academy is a fantastic way to encourage more women to take the sport and promote women’s cricket in India. 

Cricket NSW Academy, Sydney, Australia 

Cricket NSW Academy for Women is a cricket coaching academy located in Sydney, Australia, and is an initiative by Cricket NSW. It provides a variety of courses and services that focus on developing female cricketers’ skills, such as specialist training, group sessions, and private coaching. All the programs aim to enhance the sport’s technical, tactical, physical, and mental aspects. 

The Cricket NSW Academy for Women has been the stepping stone for many of its students who have gone on to play cricket for Australia at the international level, including Ellyse Perry, Rachael Haynes, and Alyssa Healy. The academy provides its players with access to top-notch facilities, like indoor and outdoor practice nets, strength and conditioning gear, and video analysis apps. There is also a pool of experienced coaches who have played cricket at the highest level and are available to provide individualized guidance and support. 

Apart from the training and coaching, the Cricket NSW Academy for Women also organizes tournaments and matches where their players can exhibit their skills and gain valuable match experience. Moreover, the academy has set up talent identification programs to find and support rising sporting talents. All in all, the Cricket NSW Academy for Women is a fantastic program to empower women’s cricket in Australia and create an environment for young and aspiring female cricketers to reach their highest potential by honing their skills.

Team India loses first ODI bilateral series in home since 2019

Team India loses first ODI bilateral series at home since 2019

Team India has had a really disastrous end to their 2023 ODI World Cup preparations. The World No.1 T20 team has lost 2-1 to Australia in the recently conducted home series. With this series defeat, the Men in Blue has lost an ODI series at home since 2019.

The 3rd ODI between India and Australia happening in Chennai saw Australia post 269 after winning the toss. Team India failed to chase the target despite a fifty from Virat Kohli and a fighting 40 from Hardik Pandya. Rohit Sharma, who looked dejected after the series loss, stated, “A lot of takeaways (from the series), just not look at these 3 games. The 9 ODIs we played from January, we can take a lot of positives from that. A loss like that really hurts. But again, we can understand what we need to do better as a group.”

He further added, “It’s not about going out there and pin-pointing at one or two individuals. It’s not what I do or it’s not what the team does as well. It’s a collective failure that we need to look at and reflect. We have to understand that in 5 months time, we will be playing on these kind of conditions. We need to understand the ideas and the thoughts.”

The 3-match series saw Team India win the first match comfortably by 5 wickets. In the 2nd ODI, the Men in Blue had a dismal batting performance. The Indians were all out to 117 runs which the Australians easily chased down and leveled the series.

With this effort, Australia has become the new number-one ODI team in the ICC Rankings. Currently, the Australians have occupied the number one Test team spot in the ICC Rankings.

The Mighty Australians win the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup for a record 6th time

The Australian women have emerged as the champions of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2023. The defending champions crushed the South Africans by 19 runs to win the T20 World Cup for the sixth time. With the win, the Australians have won the title for the third consecutive time, creating a world record in the history of international cricket.

Batting first, the Australians rode on Beth Mooney’s fantastic innings of 74 runs in ICC Women’s T20 World Cup. The left-handed batter had a bit of support from Alyssa Healy and Ashleigh Gardner to ensure the team reached a competitive total of 156 runs from their quota of 20 overs. For the hosts, Shabnim Ismail had a wonderful spell giving away just 26 runs from her four overs and taking two crucial wickets.

In the second innings of ICC Women’s T20 World Cup, South Africa didn’t have a great start. The team scored just 22 runs in the first six overs. But with the wickets in hand, the team knew they could capitalize in the middle overs. A 55-run stand between the in-form batter Laura Wolvaardt (61 off 48 balls) and Chloe Tryon (25 off 23 balls) got the South Africans in the chase. However, some clever bowling from the Australians derailed the momentum of the South Africans.

The likes of Megan Schutt, Gardner, and Darcie Brown gave little away as South Africa was left with too much to do in the end. All that the hosts could manage was 137/6, as the Australian bowlers remained calm right through.

Meg Lanning, the Australian captain, had encouraging words for her team. In the post-match interview, the skipper said, “It’s a pretty special effort from the group. All the teams came hard at us, but I’m super proud of the way we kept fighting back. We felt like it was a good score, but we had to put pressure on South Africa.”

The Australian women have lifted the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup trophy a record 6 times (2010, 2012, 2014, 2018, 2020, 2023). Meg Lanning, their charismatic captain, has alone lifted the cup four times.

Aaron Finch

Aaron Finch announces retirement from T20Is

Australia’s T20 skipper Aaron Finch has announced his retirement from the T20 Internationals. Finch has announced his retirement from all international cricket after 12 years on the national side.

 

 

Announcing his retirement, Finch said, “Realising that I won’t be playing on until the next T20 World Cup in 2024, now is the right moment to step down and give the team time to plan and build towards that event.”

He further added, “I’d like to thank my family, especially my wife Amy, my team-mates, Cricket Victoria, Cricket Australia, and the Australian Cricketers’ Association for their support to allow me to play the game I love at the highest level. I also want to say a huge thank you to all the fans who have supported me throughout my international career.”

Aaron Finch retires from T20I cricket after playing 103 games for Australia, with 76 of them coming as the national team’s skipper. Further, Finch is Australia’s highest run-getter in the format, scoring 3120 runs at an average of 34.28 and a strike rate of 142.5. He has also earned the distinction of being Australia’s first captain to win the ICC T20 World Cup trophy, winning it in 2021 when they defeated New Zealand in Dubai.

 

Upon hearing of Finch’s retirement, Cricket Australia chair, Dr. Lachlan Henderson, said, “Playing at the highest level for over a decade requires incredible determination and dedication, so we thank Aaron for his enormous contribution and wish him all the best in the next phase of his career.”

Though Finch has retired from international T20 matches, he will continue to play for the Renegades in the Big Bash League and any other domestic T20 opportunities that come his way. The T20-winning skipper had earlier retired from ODI cricket in September last year.

Aussie pace duo Lance Morris & Michael Neser added to the national squad

With Pat Cummins sustaining a thigh strain, the Australian Cricket Board has added Lance Morris and Michael Neser as backup pace options for the second NRMA Insurance Test against West Indies in Adelaide.

Australia captain Cummins is under an injury cloud after not bowling on the fifth day in the victory over West Indies in Perth owing to a thigh strain. Hence, both the new additions to the national squad are a precautionary measure because of the hectic schedule of the Australian squad.

“Michael (Neser) has been with the squad on a regular basis in past seasons and was simply outstanding in Adelaide last summer,” said selection chairman George Bailey. “He has continued to perform incredibly consistently since and will be warmly welcomed back.

“Lance is another of the outstanding young fast bowlers coming through the ranks. He has genuine pace, and his ability to create opportunities for wickets is a real drawcard. It will be a great experience for him to come into the environment”, he further added.

Morris, who earned his first call-up to the national squad, has collected 27 wickets in five matches for Western Australia this Marsh Sheffield Shield season to top the wicket-takers tally, with his victims coming at an average of 18.40 and a strike rate of 33.1.

Australia’s revised squad for the Adelaide Test: Pat Cummins (c), Scott Boland, Alex Carey, Cameron Green, Marcus Harris, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, David Warner, Michael Neser, Lance Morris.

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