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Women's Cricket in England Aligns with Men's Competitions

Women’s Cricket in England Aligns with Men’s Competitions

By September 5, 2024 0

England’s top women’s cricket teams will embark on a new era in 2025, with the introduction of the Vitality Blast and Metro Bank One-Day Cup, mirroring the competitions played by their male counterparts. This alignment aims to enhance the visibility and growth of women’s cricket in England.

The Vitality Blast Women’s Finals Day will crown the T20 champions, while the Metro Bank One-Day Cup will feature semi-finals and a final. The eight teams competing in the Metro Bank One-Day Cup will represent Durham, Essex, Hampshire, Lancashire, Somerset, Surrey, Warwickshire, and The Blaze (representing Nottinghamshire and surrounds).

The Vitality Blast will feature eight teams: Birmingham Bears (Warwickshire), Durham, Essex, Hampshire, Lancashire Thunder, Somerset, Surrey, and The Blaze. Yorkshire will join the top flight in 2026, followed by Glamorgan in 2027.

A knockout cup competition will also be introduced in 2025, involving teams from all three tiers of the women’s domestic structure. This will provide opportunities for counties at all levels to compete against each other.

Beth Barrett-Wild, ECB director of the women’s professional game, emphasized the importance of aligning the men’s and women’s competitions: “By putting our men’s and women’s competitions and players on the same platform, we can exponentially increase the reach of the women’s domestic game and intensify the depth of feeling fans have for our women’s teams moving forwards.”

The new structure will see an investment of £8m per year into women’s domestic cricket by 2027, bringing the total annual investment to £19m. This funding is expected to increase the number of professional female players in England and Wales by 80% by 2029.

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ICC Considers Fund to Boost Test Cricket and Support Smaller Boards

ICC Considers Fund to Boost Test Cricket and Support Smaller Boards

By August 25, 2024 0

The International Cricket Council (ICC) is considering establishing a dedicated fund to bolster Test cricket and level the playing field for boards outside the “Big Three” (India, Australia, and England). This initiative aims to provide a minimum standard match fee of approximately US $10,000 for players across all Test-playing nations.

The fund, driven by Cricket Australia chair Mark Baird and supported by the BCCI and ECB, is intended to make Test cricket more appealing to players who may otherwise opt for more lucrative franchise leagues. It would also reduce the financial burden on less-wealthy boards, which often incur losses when hosting Test matches.

The fund is expected to be in the region of US $15 million and has the backing of BCCI secretary Jay Shah and ECB chair Richard Thompson. It is currently in its formative stages and has not yet been formally discussed by the ICC board or executive committee.

Baird expressed optimism about the fund’s potential, stating, “We need to take away the barriers and encourage Test cricket to be the best of the best. To retain that history and that legacy, which goes alongside the newer forms of white-ball cricket.”

The ECB has already implemented a similar concept, agreeing to pay Zimbabwe a “touring fee” for their upcoming Test match at Trent Bridge. This move reflects the growing recognition that boards need to find ways to make Test cricket financially viable for all nations.

The ICC’s proposed fund would be a significant step towards ensuring that Test cricket remains a vibrant and competitive format. It would provide a financial incentive for players to prioritize Test cricket and help to level the playing field for boards outside the “Big Three.”

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Indian Women's Cricket Team Aims for Composure in T20 World Cup

Historic Milestone: Lord’s to Host Its First-Ever Women’s Test Match Between India and England

By August 23, 2024 0

The “home of cricket,” Lord’s, has announced that it will host the first-ever women’s Test match between India and England in 2026. This is a historic development for women’s cricket. The exciting three-match ODI series in July 2025 will set the stage for this historic fixture, which has been confirmed by the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB).

Excitement was evident in the words of ECB CEO Richard Gould, who said, “It will be a truly special occasion, and one of real significance for the game.” The game intends to motivate the following generation of female cricket players in addition to showcasing the sport’s rising popularity.

Traditionally a privilege for their male counterparts, female cricket players will now be allowed to enter the hallowed grounds of Lord’s for the first time during a Test match. The game will serve as a stage for exhibiting skill and fostering interest in women’s cricket, which has been increasingly popular in recent times.

The forthcoming Test match between India and England, where England has historically dominated the women’s game, promises to provide thrilling performances and increased rivalry. India last faced England in a Test match in 2021, which resulted in a draw. Since 1986, India has played nine Tests against England. This next match aims to push women’s cricket to new heights while also representing advancements in gender equality within the game.

Cricket enthusiasts and aspiring players are preparing for a historic match at Lord’s that will open the door for many more women’s matches at this legendary location as excitement for 2026 grows. A significant turning point in cricket history is about to occur, reinforcing the idea that the sport is open to everybody.

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The Hundred: Mixed Results in Fourth Season, Future Uncertain

The Hundred: Mixed Results in Fourth Season, Future Uncertain

By August 19, 2024 0

The Hundred, the ECB’s flagship T20 competition, has completed its fourth season, albeit with mixed results. While the women’s tournament continues to thrive, the men’s competition has faced challenges, including declining scoring rates and crowd numbers.

The ECB’s main goal for the 2024 season is to consolidate the Hundred’s position and prove its concept. They hope to attract investors for hospitality suites during the finals weekend, despite the competition’s overall decline in attendance.

Official figures show a 7% drop in ticket sales, with most of the decline occurring outside of London. Lord’s and The Oval accounted for nearly half of the Hundred’s total attendance, highlighting the importance of these venues.

Despite the challenges, the ECB remains optimistic about the Hundred’s future. They cite record-breaking attendances at women’s fixtures and believe the competition has significantly boosted the women’s game.

The cricket itself has been a mixed bag. The men’s competition suffered from clashes with other tournaments and the absence of key players like Jos Buttler. A decline in scoring rates, due to swing-friendly balls and heavy investment in bowling, has also been a concern.

However, the success of Oval Invincibles, who have won back-to-back titles, has provided a positive narrative for the men’s tournament. In the women’s game, Welsh Fire’s resurgence and Southern Brave’s struggles have added intrigue.

The Hundred’s overlap with Major League Cricket led to some farcical one-match signings, such as Mohammad Amir’s brief appearance. However, the women’s competition has proven that investment can attract top players, with Meg Lanning and Ash Gardner making their Hundred debuts.

Despite the presence of overseas stars, the quality of domestic players remains crucial for the Hundred’s success. England player availability is also important, and Ben Stokes’ injury was a significant setback.

The imminent sale of the Hundred’s franchises means the future of the competition is uncertain. However, the ECB is confident that the Hundred can achieve its goals of accelerating the growth of the women’s game and attracting new fans to cricket.

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IPL Owners Set to Reshape England's Hundred Competition

IPL Owners Set to Reshape England’s Hundred Competition

By August 17, 2024 0

The Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise owners are poised to make a significant impact on the England and Wales Cricket Board’s (ECB) Hundred competition. As the ECB prepares to sell shares in its eight Hundred teams in September, it is eager to attract Indian capital. According to The Guardian, even minority investments will grant new owners substantial influence, as all ten IPL owners are expected to bid for shares.

Sources involved in the sale process indicate that IPL owners are seeking control in exchange for their investments. They are likely to push for name changes, with the extent of the changes depending on the amount invested. The Ambani family, owners of the Mumbai Indians and its sister franchises, is reportedly considering a substantial bid for the London Spirit team, with plans to rebrand it as MI London.

London Spirit is considered the most valuable team in the Hundred, and its sale is expected to generate a significant portion of the revenue. The ECB has been in discussions with potential investors for several months, including Hollywood actor Ryan Reynolds and Manchester United owner Avram Glazer. American owners of Birmingham City, Knighthead Capital, have also expressed interest in acquiring a stake in Birmingham Phoenix.

The Rajasthan Royals, IPL champions in 2008, are expected to bid for the Northern Superchargers as part of their acquisition of Yorkshire. The Delhi Capitals, who recently acquired Hampshire for 120 million pounds, are also likely to seek a stake in the Southern Brave.

These moves align with the growing global reach of the IPL. The league’s popularity and financial success have made it an attractive investment for international investors. The ECB’s decision to sell shares in the Hundred is seen as a strategic move to capitalize on this interest and further develop the competition.

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Gus Atkinson Ruled Out of Hundred Final for England Test Duty

Gus Atkinson Ruled Out of Hundred Final for England Test Duty

By August 16, 2024 0

Gus Atkinson, the standout performer in England’s recent ODI series against West Indies, will miss the final of the men’s Hundred tournament due to his unavailability for the upcoming Test series against Sri Lanka. Atkinson, who claimed 22 wickets in his debut series and was named Player of the Series, has only featured once for Oval Invincibles this year.

Invincibles’ captain Sam Billings expressed disappointment over Atkinson’s absence but acknowledged the ECB’s cautious approach to player availability following Ben Stokes’ hamstring injury. Saqib Mahmood, who has been in impressive form throughout the tournament, will replace Atkinson in the side.

The Invincibles will also be without Spencer Johnson due to injury, but Tom Curran will return after being rested in the previous match. The ECB is taking a cautious approach to England players’ availability, with Chris Woakes already withdrawn from the tournament. However, Jamie Smith, Ben Duckett, and Jordan Cox will be available for the weekend’s matches ahead of the first Test.

Billings emphasized the importance of playing in the Hundred final for young players like Cox, who will gain valuable experience in front of a packed Lord’s crowd. Jofra Archer, who has been carefully managed due to previous injuries, is expected to be available for both the eliminator and final if Southern Brave qualify.

In the women’s Hundred, Chamari Athapaththu will be unavailable for the Invincibles in their eliminator against London Spirit due to her commitments with Sri Lanka’s ODI squad in Ireland. Megan Schutt, the Invincibles’ fourth overseas player, is likely to feature in her place.

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Team GB Cricket Teams in the Works for 2028 Olympics

Team GB Cricket Teams in the Works for 2028 Olympics

By August 13, 2024 0

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has announced the inclusion of cricket in the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles, marking the sport’s return to the Olympics after a 128-year absence. The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) and Cricket Scotland have initiated discussions to field men’s and women’s Team GB cricket teams at the Games.

The ICC has proposed six-team T20 tournaments for both the women’s and men’s competitions, with each tournament expected to last around a week. Qualification details are yet to be confirmed, but the ICC’s T20I rankings will likely play a role.

If England qualifies, they will compete as Great Britain, in line with the rest of the Olympics. This opens up the possibility of Scottish players, such as Brandon McMullen or Sarah and Kathryn Bryce, representing Team GB.

The ECB and Cricket Scotland are collaborating on the proposed Team GB cricket teams. Cricket Scotland is eager to contribute players and staff, while the ECB will serve as the teams’ nominated governing body.

Andy Anson, the chief executive of the British Olympic Association, emphasized the importance of collaboration between the ECB and Cricket Scotland. He cited successful examples in other sports, such as golf, rugby, and women’s football, where the Four Nations have come together to nominate a single governing body.

The venue for the cricket events at the 2028 Olympics is yet to be confirmed. Los Angeles Knight Riders and Major League Cricket are planning to build a stadium in Great Park in Irvine, while the Oakland Coliseum is also a potential option.

West Indies’ potential involvement presents some complications, as cricket is organized on an all-Ireland basis. However, there is precedent from the 2022 Commonwealth Games, where Barbados represented West Indies in the women’s cricket event.

Involvement in the Olympics will add to an already busy 2028 summer for England’s men, which includes six Tests and white-ball tours from Australia and India.

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Sri Lankan Cricketers Express Safety Concerns Amidst UK Riots

Sri Lankan Cricketers Express Safety Concerns Amidst UK Riots

By August 8, 2024 0

The Sri Lankan cricket team’s upcoming test series against England has been overshadowed by concerns over player safety amidst ongoing anti-immigrant riots in Britain. Several Sri Lankan players currently in England for pre-series training have expressed their anxieties to the Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) board, requesting enhanced security measures.

“We can’t go out to dinner or do anything like that. Mostly we stay in the hotel. No one wants to run into trouble and get beaten up,” a Sri Lankan player in England told ESPNcricinfo.

Sri Lankan team manager, Mahinda Halangoda, has formally addressed these concerns with the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB), particularly after reports of unrest in Manchester, the venue for the first test match.

“I raised the issue with them, and the ECB responded very quickly and sent us their comprehensive security arrangements. We’ll be having a security liaison on the tour from them as well,” Halangoda stated.

The ECB has assured the Sri Lankan team of comprehensive security arrangements, but the players’ apprehension underscores the potential impact of broader societal issues on international sporting events.

This situation presents a parallel to Sri Lanka’s own experience in 2022, when the island nation faced significant political and economic turmoil, leading to ethical concerns raised by Australia and Pakistan regarding touring for a bilateral series. Ultimately, the Asia Cup, initially planned to be held in Sri Lanka, was relocated to the United Arab Emirates due to the unrest.

The SLC will be keen to ensure their players can focus on the upcoming series without undue anxiety. The effectiveness of the ECB’s security measures and the overall management of the situation will be closely observed, setting a precedent for future touring teams navigating similar circumstances.

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Zimbabwe to Receive Historic Touring Fee in England Test Series

Zimbabwe to Receive Historic Touring Fee in England Test Series

By July 27, 2024 0

Zimbabwe will make history as the first country to receive a “touring fee” from the host board in bilateral cricket when they visit England for a two-Test series in the summer of 2025. This groundbreaking development was announced by ECB chief executive Richard Gould, who has been advocating for measures to address the financial disparities among Full Member nations and maintain the quality of Test cricket.

Gould’s proposal, which he initially presented in 2022, calls for host boards to compensate touring teams. He believes this will help offset the significant revenue gap between wealthier boards like the ECB, BCCI, and Cricket Australia, and those from smaller nations.

“There’s a huge responsibility for the ECB and other financially strong boards to ensure Test cricket remains competitive,” Gould stated. “The current revenue-sharing model is outdated and needs to be revised.”

The escalating costs of maintaining Test cricket in smaller countries, where broadcasting rights have become less valuable, have raised concerns about the sustainability of the format. CWI CEO Johnny Grave has criticized the ICC’s revenue-sharing model, arguing that it has failed to support weaker boards.

Gould expressed sympathy for boards like CWI and emphasized the need to find solutions to keep them competitive. “We’ve had conversations with the West Indies about providing assistance,” he said. “It’s not just about money; there are other ways to support them, such as organizing additional tours or providing opportunities for their players to gain experience in different conditions.”

ECB chair Richard Thompson has also highlighted the importance of ensuring a strong level of competition for both men’s and women’s teams. He noted that only 4% of the ECB’s annual income comes from ICC revenue distribution, with the majority derived from bilateral cricket broadcast rights.

“We need to share the value that the game creates to keep Test cricket strong,” Thompson said. “It’s an accepted principle, and we’re exploring different tactics to achieve it.”

The ECB’s decision to pay a touring fee to Zimbabwe is a significant step towards addressing the financial challenges faced by smaller cricket nations. It sets a precedent that could lead to a more equitable distribution of resources and help maintain the health and competitiveness of Test cricket worldwide.

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ECB Secures Agreement for Hundred Privatization

ECB Secures Agreement for Hundred Privatization

By May 11, 2024 0

The privatization of the Hundred, England’s premier domestic cricket tournament, has taken a significant step forward with the English Cricket Board (ECB) securing broad agreement from the 18 first-class counties and Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) on its proposed “direction of travel.”

Over the past nine months, the English cricket community has engaged in extensive discussions regarding the future of the Hundred. ECB chief executive Richard Gould previously indicated a “strong consensus” that the eight teams, currently owned by the board, should be opened up to private investment.

To facilitate this, eight new companies will be established, with 51% of the shares gifted to the respective host counties. For instance, Surrey would hold the majority of shares in the Oval Invincibles. The remaining 49% of shares will be sold centrally by the ECB to interested parties.

The counties were given a deadline of Friday to agree on a “direction of travel.” While some details remain to be finalized, particularly regarding the distribution of proceeds from the sale of ECB shares, the counties have granted their non-binding approval for the sale process to proceed.

The 11 non-host counties have expressed concerns and are seeking independent financial advice. They emphasize the need for impartial guidance in a financial arrangement involving hundreds of millions of pounds.

However, many non-host counties face financial challenges and rely heavily on central funding from the ECB. A recent study revealed that five counties have received emergency financial assistance from the ECB in the past two years.

According to The Telegraph, the latest model proposes allocating 10% of the proceeds from the sale of ECB shares to recreational cricket, with the remainder distributed among the counties. The first £275 million would be shared equally among the 18 counties and MCC, while the next £150 million would be distributed among the 11 non-hosts. Any further proceeds would be shared equally again.

A county chief executive expressed support for a deal but emphasized the importance of ensuring that the details benefit all parties and avoid widening the gap between richer and poorer counties.

The host counties will determine the portion of their 51% stake they wish to retain, with the remainder being sold centrally by the ECB. Lancashire and Surrey have consulted with their members to keep them informed of the latest developments.

The ECB has appointed Raine Group, a New York-based investment bank, to manage the sale process, which is expected to be completed later this year. The 2024 edition of the Hundred will serve as a showcase for potential investors. IPL franchises and investors from the US and UK have reportedly expressed interest.

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