EnglandCricket Archives

Pakistan Confirms Home Test Series Against England in Multan and Rawalpindi

By Nilay September 7, 2024 0

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has confirmed that the upcoming home Test series against England will take place in Pakistan, despite earlier reports suggesting a possible shift to Sri Lanka or the UAE. The series, part of the ICC World Test Championship 2023-25 cycle, will proceed as planned with matches in Multan and Rawalpindi.

PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi quashed reports of a venue change, stating that the venues are final and games will not be played outside the country. “No Tests will be played outside (the country). Multan and Rawalpindi venues are final,” Naqvi said.

The confirmation comes after reports emerged that the series might be moved out of Pakistan due to ongoing renovation work at stadiums in preparation for next year’s ICC Champions Trophy. However, Naqvi clarified that the venues are ready and will not be affected by the construction activities.

Recently, the PCB had to shift the second Test of their series against Bangladesh from Karachi to Rawalpindi because of similar renovation work. Spectators were barred from attending that match due to the construction activities. Experts had advised that construction could continue during playing hours, potentially distracting players because of the noise and dust.

England head coach Brendon McCullum had expressed concerns about the venue uncertainty, saying it made team selection difficult. “We don’t know (what is happening in Pakistan), but we can’t pick a team until we know where we’re going to play. It would be nice if, over the next couple of days, we found out. Then we’ll sit down and make sure we’ve got the right team for the right conditions and the right opposition,” McCullum had said.

The first Test of the three-match series between Pakistan and England is scheduled to begin on October 7 in Multan. The second match will take place in Karachi starting October 15. The series will conclude with the third Test in Rawalpindi on October 24.

Categories: Cricket

Woakes Bowls Off-Spin as Bad Light Halts England’s Pace Attack

By Nilay September 7, 2024 0

England’s Woakes Bowls Off-Spin Due to Bad Light in Third Test Against Sri Lanka

In an unusual turn of events, England pacer Chris Woakes was forced to bowl off-spin during the third and final Test against Sri Lanka at the Kennington Oval due to poor light conditions.

With skies darkening and light fading rapidly in London on Saturday, Woakes was seen bowling off-spin against the Lankan batters. The incident occurred in the 7th over of Sri Lanka’s first innings when the on-field umpires informed skipper Ollie Pope that the light was insufficient for fast bowlers to operate.

Woakes, who had just dismissed Pathum Nissanka on the second ball of his fourth over, had four more deliveries to bowl when the umpires intervened. This forced him to complete his remaining balls by bowling off-spin, much to the amusement of England bowling coach Jeetan Patel and the players on the field.

With a couple of slips, a leg slip, and a short-leg in place, Woakes bowled three off-spinning deliveries, one of which was dispatched to the boundary. He then completed the over with an arm ball.

Earlier, bad light had also forced early stumps on the opening day of the Test. Riding on Pope’s 154, England scored 325 before being bowled out in the 70th over. Already 2-0 up in the series, England are aiming for a whitewash against Sri Lanka.

Categories: Cricket

Ben Duckett’s Risk-Taking Approach Fuels England’s Aggressive Batting

By Nilay September 7, 2024 0

Former England captain Nasser Hussain has hailed Ben Duckett’s audacious knock of 86 on day one of the third Test against Sri Lanka as a testament to his risk-taking approach that lies at the heart of England’s aggressive batting philosophy.

Duckett’s blistering innings, featuring nine fours and two sixes, set the tone for England’s imposing 221/3 at The Oval. Hussain praised Duckett’s ability to unsettle the Sri Lankan bowlers with his relentless attacking intent.

“Duckett never let them settle at all,” Hussain wrote in his column for Daily Mail. “They kept bowling on the legs early on, or even outside the line of the pads, and then when they over-corrected, they were short and wide. Where does Duckett like the ball the most? Short and wide outside off-stump. He put them to the sword.”

Hussain highlighted Duckett’s unique approach compared to traditional England openers who often left deliveries outside off-stump. Duckett’s willingness to attack these balls has resulted in a remarkable leave percentage of just 1.7%, significantly lower than other Test openers.

“His career leave percentage is 1.7%, making him nearly five times as likely to play than Pakistan’s Abdullah Shafique, the next man on the list with 8.3%,” Hussain noted. “When everything is in the bowlers’ favor, that is exactly how the England team management want him, Duckett to play – putting pressure back on the opposition.”

Hussain acknowledged that Duckett’s attacking instincts could be exploited by Australia in next year’s Ashes. However, he believes Duckett will remain true to his style of play.

“With batsmen, however, your strengths can also be your weaknesses and I expect Australia to play on this in next year’s Ashes,” Hussain said. “But I can’t see him changing. He will give it a go and that aligns with the constant messaging from the England dressing room.”

Hussain concluded by emphasizing the importance of allowing players to play to their strengths, even if it occasionally leads to dismissals. “If a player scores runs with a particular shot, they do not want them to put it away if they get out to it,” Hussain added.

Categories: Cricket

Mark Wood Ruled Out for Rest of Year with Elbow Injury

By Nilay September 7, 2024 0

Mark Wood, England’s premier fast bowler, has been dealt a major setback as he has been ruled out for the remainder of the year due to a bone-stress injury to his right elbow. This unfortunate news means that Wood will miss England’s upcoming Test tours of Pakistan and New Zealand.

Wood’s injury woes began during the first Test against Sri Lanka at Old Trafford, where he suffered a right thigh strain while bowling. As a precautionary measure, he was withdrawn from the ongoing series. However, subsequent scans revealed a more concerning issue in his right elbow, which Wood had been experiencing discomfort in.

In a heartfelt Instagram post, Wood expressed his disappointment and frustration: “During what I thought was a routine check on a previously troublesome elbow, I was shocked to learn I’ve got some bone stress in my right elbow.”

This diagnosis has forced Wood to withdraw from England’s remaining six Tests of the year, three against Pakistan in October and three against New Zealand in December. The ECB medical team will continue to monitor Wood’s progress closely, with the aim of having him fully fit by early 2025. This would allow him to participate in England’s white-ball tour of India and the ICC Champions Trophy in Pakistan, which is scheduled to begin in February 2025.

Wood’s absence is a significant blow to England’s bowling attack. His pace and aggression have been instrumental in England’s recent Test successes. His ability to generate reverse swing has also been a key factor in his effectiveness.

England will now have to find a suitable replacement for Wood in their Test squad. Potential candidates include Matthew Potts, Ollie Robinson, and Craig Overton. However, none of these bowlers possess the same combination of pace and swing as Wood.

Wood’s injury is a reminder of the physical demands of fast bowling. The constant stress on the body can lead to a variety of injuries, including bone stress fractures. It is important for bowlers to manage their workload carefully and to listen to their bodies when they are feeling pain.

Categories: Cricket

Ollie Pope’s Century Puts England in Command Against Sri Lanka

By Nilay September 6, 2024 0

Ollie Pope’s resurgence as England’s captain continued on Friday as he notched his maiden century in the role during the first day of the third Test against Sri Lanka at The Oval.

Pope, playing on his home ground, rediscovered his batting touch, scoring an unbeaten 103 off just 103 balls. His innings propelled England to a strong position of 221-3 at the close of play, despite poor light conditions forcing an early end to the day.

Sri Lanka, who trail the three-match series 2-0, won the toss and opted to field first. However, they failed to capitalize on the overcast skies and green-tinged pitch, as England’s openers made a solid start.

Ben Duckett, who missed out on a century on Friday, struck consecutive fours off Milan Rathnayake’s deliveries. However, Dan Lawrence, playing as a makeshift opener, struggled and was dismissed for just five runs.

Pope, batting at number three, got off to a positive start, cutting a loose delivery from Rathnayake for four and later hooking a six off Lahiru Kumara. Duckett raced to a brisk fifty in just 48 balls, including seven boundaries.

Despite the floodlights being on, the umpires deemed conditions too unsafe to continue and halted play due to bad light. Rain further delayed the match, which resumed at 1410 GMT.

Duckett continued his aggressive approach, ramping Kumara for six over fine leg and then uppercutting him high over third man. However, he fell short of his fourth Test century when he mistimed a scoop off Rathnayake and was caught by wicketkeeper Dinesh Chandimal.

Pope, 26, had a stroke of luck when a top-edged six off Kumara went his way. He completed his seventh Test hundred – and his first at The Oval – when he elegantly square-drove Asitha Fernando for his 13th boundary.

However, bad light once again forced the players off the field, and no further play was possible on Friday.

England, who have already secured a 3-0 victory against the West Indies earlier in the season, are now aiming for their first clean sweep in a home Test campaign since 2004.

Categories: Cricket

James Anderson Extends Role as England Bowling Consultant for Winter Tours

By Nilay September 6, 2024 0

James Anderson, the legendary English fast bowler, will continue his role as bowling consultant for the England men’s team during their upcoming winter tours of Pakistan and New Zealand. Anderson’s initial stint, which began after his retirement from Test cricket in June, has been extended through the end of the year.

The 42-year-old Anderson has been working closely with the England team since his retirement, providing guidance and expertise to the bowlers. The ECB is keen to retain his knowledge and experience as they build towards the 2025-26 Ashes series.

Anderson’s role as bowling consultant has been mutually beneficial. It has allowed him to explore a potential coaching career while also providing valuable support to the England team. The team has benefited from his insights and experience, particularly in the development of young bowlers like Josh Hull.

Anderson’s presence has also been a positive influence on the team’s culture. His knowledge and experience have been invaluable to the younger players, who have been able to learn from one of the greatest bowlers of all time.

While Anderson is currently focused on his role as bowling consultant, he has not ruled out the possibility of playing franchise cricket in the future. However, he is aware that he needs to get back to playing white-ball cricket before he can consider that option.

The extension of Anderson’s role as bowling consultant is a testament to his value to the England team. His knowledge, experience, and positive influence make him an invaluable asset to the team as they prepare for future challenges.

Categories: Cricket

Kate Cross to Captain England for First Time in Ireland Series

By Nilay September 6, 2024 0

Kate Cross, the experienced England all-rounder, is set to make history as she captains her country for the first time in the upcoming series against Ireland. With the majority of England’s T20 World Cup squad rested, Cross will lead a second-string team in three ODIs and three T20Is at Stormont and Castle Avenue, respectively.

Cross, who has captained Lancashire Thunder and Manchester Originals domestically, expressed her excitement and determination to lead England in her own unique style. She acknowledged the guidance she has received from former captains Charlotte Edwards and Heather Knight, but emphasized her intention to approach the role with her own approach.

While England’s primary goal is to secure victories, especially in the ODIs which are part of the ICC Women’s Championship, the tour also provides an opportunity for fringe players to showcase their abilities and stake a claim for regular international involvement. Cross believes that the competition within the squad will drive players to perform at their best.

Ireland, who recently defeated Sri Lanka in an ODI series, are not taking England’s weakened squad lightly. Captain Gaby Lewis stated that her team will prepare thoroughly regardless of the opposition and expects a competitive series. She highlighted the experience and talent within England’s second-string squad and emphasized the importance of Ireland’s own preparation.

The series marks England’s first tour of Ireland since 1995, and both captains believe it will help raise the profile of women’s cricket in the country. Cross hopes that the matches will inspire young Irish girls to take up the sport, while Lewis emphasized the role of Irish players as role models for the next generation.

Categories: Cricket

England Eye Clean Sweep as Sri Lanka Seek Redemption in Third Test

By Nilay September 6, 2024 0

England, riding high on a 2-0 lead, aims to seal a clean sweep against Sri Lanka in the third and final Test match of the series. The hosts have been in imperious form throughout the series, showcasing the depth of their squad with impressive performances from both established and emerging players.

Joe Root has been the talisman for England, leading from the front with his prolific batting. However, the likes of Jamie Smith, Matthew Potts, and Gus Atkinson have also made significant contributions, proving their worth in the international arena.

For Sri Lanka, the task ahead is daunting. They have struggled to match England’s intensity and skill, and a turnaround in fortunes is imperative if they are to avoid a whitewash. The visitors will need their senior players, such as Dimuth Karunaratne and Angelo Mathews, to step up and inspire the team.

The third Test promises to be an intriguing contest, with England seeking to maintain their dominance and Sri Lanka desperate to salvage some pride. The match will be played at the Rose Bowl in Southampton, starting on June 23.

Categories: Cricket

Ben Stokes Defends Ollie Pope Amid Criticism, Slams English Sport Culture

By Nilay September 5, 2024 0

Ben Stokes, England’s Test captain, has expressed his disappointment with the “culture” of English sport, which he believes has led to excessive criticism of stand-in captain Ollie Pope. Pope has taken over the captaincy in Stokes’ absence due to a hamstring injury and has led England to two comprehensive victories in the ongoing Sri Lanka series. However, his batting has suffered, leading to criticism from former England captain Michael Vaughan.

Stokes defended Pope, stating that he has done “fantastically well” in leading the team and that his batting struggles are due to the added responsibility of captaincy. He also criticized the media for being too quick to criticize Pope, saying that it is “just English culture towards sport.”

Stokes has a history of defending his teammates and believes that athletes should support each other. He also spoke about his interest in business and his belief in the power of teamwork, which he sees as a key factor in his success on and off the field.

Categories: Cricket

England’s McCullum Selects Raw Talent Hull for Test Debut

By Nilay September 5, 2024 0

Brendon McCullum’s bold selection of 20-year-old left-arm fast bowler Josh Hull for England’s Test debut against Sri Lanka has sent shockwaves through the cricketing world. McCullum’s decision is a clear indication of his determination to break away from traditional English conventions and invest in players with high potential.

Hull, who has only taken two first-class wickets this season, is a raw talent with an impressive physique and a bowling speed ranging from 80 to 90 miles per hour. McCullum believes that Hull’s potential outweighs his lack of experience, and that he can provide England with a valuable weapon in various conditions.

The selection of Hull also raises questions about the future of England’s more established bowlers, such as Rory Burns, Dom Sibley, and Ben Foakes. These players, who were once considered the bedrock of the team, now seem to be out of favor with McCullum and Ben Stokes.

McCullum’s approach is a departure from the traditional English style of play, which has often favored experienced and reliable players. However, McCullum believes that England need to adapt to the modern game and recruit players who can challenge teams in all conditions.

The selection of Hull is a gamble, but it is a gamble that McCullum is willing to take. He believes that Hull has the potential to be a key player for England in the future, and that his selection will help the team to become more rounded and competitive.

Categories: Cricket

Pakistan Confirms Home Test Series Against England in Multan and Rawalpindi

Woakes Bowls Off-Spin as Bad Light Halts England’s Pace Attack

Ben Duckett’s Risk-Taking Approach Fuels England’s Aggressive Batting

Mark Wood Ruled Out for Rest of Year with Elbow Injury

Ollie Pope’s Century Puts England in Command Against Sri Lanka

James Anderson Extends Role as England Bowling Consultant for Winter Tours

Kate Cross to Captain England for First Time in Ireland Series

England Eye Clean Sweep as Sri Lanka Seek Redemption in Third Test

Ben Stokes Defends Ollie Pope Amid Criticism, Slams English Sport Culture

England’s McCullum Selects Raw Talent Hull for Test Debut

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