Rare No-Ball in T20 Blast Highlights Wicket-Keeping Concerns

Rare No-Ball in T20 Blast Highlights Wicket-Keeping Concerns

Rare No-Ball in T20 Blast Quarter-Final Raises Questions About Wicket-Keeping Standards

During a T20 Blast quarter-final match between Somerset and Northamptonshire on September 5, a rare incident occurred that highlighted the importance of precise wicket-keeping. In the first innings, Somerset batter Lewis Gregory was deceived by Northamptonshire’s left-arm orthodox spinner, Saif Zaib. The ball beat Gregory’s outside edge, and wicketkeeper Lewis McManus attempted to stump him. However, upon review, it was determined that McManus had crossed the line of the stumps before collecting the ball, resulting in a no-ball.

This incident brought attention to Article 27.3.1 of the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) Laws of Cricket, which states that the wicket-keeper must remain wholly behind the wicket at the striker’s end until the ball touches the bat or person of the striker, passes the wicket, or the striker attempts a run. McManus’s failure to adhere to this rule resulted in a reprieve for Gregory.

The incident also raised questions about the overall standards of wicket-keeping in the game. Some experts believe that the increasing emphasis on athleticism and agility in wicket-keepers may be compromising their ability to maintain their position behind the stumps.

Mills Frustrated by Archer’s Absence from Blast Finals Day

In other T20 Blast news, Sussex captain Tymal Mills expressed his frustration over the unavailability of star pacer Jofra Archer for the Blast Finals Day. The Finals Day will feature the two semi-finals and final played back-to-back at Edgbaston on September 14. However, England will be involved in a three-match home T20I series against Australia during that period.

Mills believes it is “pretty stupid” that England players will not be released for the Blast Finals Day, especially considering the importance of the tournament. He said, “Whoever comes in for him (Archer) will have big boots to fill.”

England Players to Miss Blast Finals Day

According to ESPNcricinfo, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) is working through scenarios, but players will only be released if they are not needed for the final two matches of the T20I series against Australia.

Surrey will be the most affected team, with all-rounder Jamie Overton called up by England as injury cover. He will join Sam Curran, Will Jacks, and Reece Topley in the T20I squad. Surrey is also waiting for confirmation of the availability of their four-Test players, including Gus Atkinson, Dan Lawrence, Ollie Pope, and Jamie Smith.

Warwickshire will also miss the presence of uncapped all-rounders Dan Mousley and Jacob Bethell, who are also in England’s T20I squad.

Northamptonshire Sack Head Coach John Sadler After Disastrous Season

Northamptonshire Sack Head Coach John Sadler After Disastrous Season

Northamptonshire Cricket Club has parted ways with head coach John Sadler following a disappointing season that saw the team fail to win a single match in Division Two of the County Championship and finish eighth out of nine teams in their Metro Bank One-Day Cup group. The T20 Blast had been the only bright spot for Northants, but their quarter-final defeat to Somerset on Thursday night effectively ended their season.

Sadler took over from David Ripley in September 2021 and oversaw a sixth-placed finish in Division One of the Championship in his first full season in charge. However, results have since declined, with only two Championship wins last year and a winless campaign in the second tier this season.

During Sadler’s tenure, several key players have left the club, including Adam Rossington, Josh Cobb, and Emilio Gay. Tom Taylor also rejected a new contract to join Worcestershire.

In a statement, Northamptonshire Cricket Club said: “Throughout his tenure at Wantage Road, John Sadler has led the club with professionalism, dedication, and a strong work ethic. He has been a much-valued member of the Northamptonshire team, and everyone at the club wishes him well in his future career.”

Assistant coaches Rory Kleinveldt, Greg Smith, and Graeme White will take charge of Northants’ three remaining Championship fixtures. The club has also begun the process of recruiting a replacement for Sadler.

Sussex Captain Mills Delighted but Frustrated by Archer's Finals Day Absence

Sussex Captain Mills Delighted but Frustrated by Archer’s Finals Day Absence

Tymal Mills, the newly appointed T20 captain of Sussex, expressed both delight and frustration as his team secured a spot in Finals Day. While thrilled with their performance, Mills lamented the absence of Jofra Archer due to a scheduling conflict.

Mills described the scheduling clash as “pretty stupid” and “a real shame,” as it will prevent England players from participating in Finals Day, which will be held on September 14. The ECB is exploring options, but players will only be released if they are not required for the final two T20Is against Australia.

Mills acknowledged that the absence of Archer, who took 2 for 20 in Sussex’s quarter-final win over Lancashire, will be a significant loss. He emphasized that whoever replaces Archer will have “big boots to fill.”

Surrey, who defeated Durham in the quarter-finals, will be the most affected by the scheduling conflict. Jamie Overton has been called up by England as injury cover, joining Sam Curran, Will Jacks, and Reece Topley in the T20I squad. Surrey is awaiting confirmation on the availability of their four Test players: Gus Atkinson, Dan Lawrence, Ollie Pope, and Jamie Smith.

Mills expressed disappointment that other counties, such as Warwickshire, will also be without key players due to England’s T20I commitments. He believes that the scheduling conflict undermines the importance of Finals Day.

Despite the scheduling challenges, Mills praised Sussex’s performance under his leadership. After missing out on the quarter-finals in 2023, Sussex has won 10 out of 15 games this season. Mills attributed their success to their aggressive batting approach and improved record at Hove.

Mills emphasized his commitment to Sussex and his desire to win the Blast for the club. He believes that the team has the potential to succeed and is confident in their ability to perform well at Finals Day.

Ollie Robinson Stars as Sussex Crush Lancashire in T20 Blast Quarterfinal

Ollie Robinson Stars as Sussex Crush Lancashire in T20 Blast Quarterfinal

Ollie Robinson’s stellar performance propelled Sussex to a resounding eight-wicket victory over Lancashire in the T20 Blast quarterfinal at a sold-out Hove. Robinson, who was overlooked for England’s Test squad, showcased his exceptional bowling skills, claiming two crucial wickets and executing a pinpoint run-out of Liam Livingstone.

Despite Lancashire fielding seven internationals, Sussex dominated the match from the outset. Robinson struck with the first ball, dismissing Phil Salt, and later yorked Keaton Jennings to trigger a collapse. Livingstone briefly threatened with two sixes, but Robinson’s direct hit ended his innings on 43.

Sussex’s bowlers, including Brad Currie, James Coles, and Jack Carson, kept Lancashire’s batsmen in check, restricting them to a mere 114 runs. Robinson’s 18 Blast wickets this season, coupled with his impressive Championship record, have solidified his status as a formidable bowler.

Sussex captain Tymal Mills praised Robinson’s contributions, highlighting his exceptional new-ball bowling and fielding skills. Mills believes Robinson’s performance will enhance his reputation on the franchise circuit.

Despite missing Jos Buttler, Lancashire’s batting lineup failed to deliver, with Robinson’s bowling proving too potent. Sussex’s victory marks a significant turnaround from their struggles two years ago, when they finished near the bottom of the County Championship.

The County Ground was packed to capacity, with the crowd enthusiastically welcoming former Sussex players Salt and Luke Wells. Sussex will face a tough challenge at Edgbaston without Jofra Archer, who is unavailable due to England’s T20I series against Australia. However, their impressive performance in the quarterfinal has instilled confidence that they can end their 15-year wait for the Blast title.

Buttler's Calf Injury Setback Casts Doubt on England Availability

Buttler’s Calf Injury Setback Casts Doubt on England Availability

Jos Buttler’s recovery from a calf injury has suffered a setback, ruling him out of Lancashire’s T20 Blast quarter-final and casting doubt on his availability for England’s upcoming T20I series against Australia.

The England captain has not played any cricket since the T20 World Cup semi-final defeat to India in June. He sustained a calf injury in July while preparing for the Hundred, which forced him to miss the tournament.

Buttler had been targeting Wednesday’s quarter-final at Hove for his comeback after weeks of rehabilitation. However, he has now been ruled out of contention, as confirmed by Lancashire coach Dale Benkenstein.

“We’ve had some bad news on his recovery,” Benkenstein said. “He had an injury he was recovering from, and he’s sort of tweaked it again. He’s not only just out of our T20s, but I think he’s even struggling to make the international ones. He was very keen to play for us.”

England are not overly concerned about Buttler’s fitness ahead of their first T20I on September 11 and remain hopeful that he will be available to captain the side throughout Australia’s eight-match white-ball tour.

England’s new-look squad are due to report to the Utilita Bowl on Sunday ahead of two training days, when their medical staff will get a clearer picture as to whether Buttler will be available.

England’s white-ball teams do not have an official vice-captain, with Sam Curran and Phil Salt the main contenders to deputise in the event that Buttler is unavailable. He is not expected to keep wicket during the T20I series, which increases the chance that he will be able to feature despite suffering a setback.

Lancashire will have their other England players available on Wednesday night at Hove, with Salt, Liam Livingstone, and Saqib Mahmood all set to be involved. Jofra Archer is expected to feature for Sussex, whose T20 side is captained by Tymal Mills.

Hove has not hosted a T20 quarter-final in front of a crowd since 2019, and tickets have been sold out for the past two weeks.

Ravi Bopara Ruled Out of T20 Blast Knockout Stages with Finger Injury

Ravi Bopara Ruled Out of T20 Blast Knockout Stages with Finger Injury

Ravi Bopara, a seasoned English cricketer, has been ruled out of the T20 Blast’s knockout stages due to a finger injury sustained while playing in the Cayman Islands. Bopara, known for his prolific run-scoring and all-round abilities, is a significant loss for Northamptonshire, who have reached the quarter-finals for only the second time since their 2016 title triumph.

Bopara, who joined Northamptonshire on a T20-only contract earlier this year, made a significant impact in the group stages. He was the team’s second-highest run-scorer and third-highest wicket-taker, helping them finish second in the North Group and secure a home quarter-final. However, his participation in the knockout stages has been cut short by the unfortunate injury.

According to a club statement, Bopara “ruptured the tendon in a finger on his right hand while attempting a caught-and-bowled” during a match for Miami Lions in the Max60 tournament in the Cayman Islands. He underwent surgery but will require three weeks of recovery time, ruling him out of the crucial quarter-final against Somerset on September 5.

Northamptonshire has also been dealt another blow with the news that 19-year-old seamer Raphy Weatherall has been ruled out for the rest of the season due to a lower-back stress fracture. Weatherall had taken 11 wickets in the group stages, showcasing his potential as a promising young fast bowler.

Furthermore, Northamptonshire will be without Sikandar Raza for the quarter-finals and are awaiting confirmation from Cricket South Africa regarding the availability of Matthew Breetzke. However, they have received a boost with the return of Australian allrounder Ashton Agar, who has been cleared to play.

Bopara’s absence is a major setback for Northamptonshire, who will be looking to make a deep run in the T20 Blast. His experience and leadership will be sorely missed, and the team will need to find a way to compensate for his contributions.

Jos Buttler Targets Lancashire Return in T20 Blast Quarter-Final

Jos Buttler Targets Lancashire Return in T20 Blast Quarter-Final

Jos Buttler, England’s white-ball captain, is targeting a return to action in Lancashire’s T20 Blast quarter-final against Sussex on September 4. Buttler has been sidelined since the T20 World Cup due to a calf injury but has been working diligently to regain fitness.

Buttler’s return is a major boost for Lancashire, who are battling to avoid relegation in the County Championship and have struggled in the Metro Bank Cup. The T20 Blast represents their best chance of salvaging their season and reaching Finals Day.

Lancashire coach Dale Benkenstein is optimistic about Buttler’s availability, stating that he has been “doing a lot of rehab” and is “very keen to play.” A fitness test on the day of the match will determine his participation.

Buttler’s return will also be a welcome sight for England, who face Australia in a T20I and ODI series in September. Buttler has been backed to continue as England’s white-ball captain despite the departure of head coach Matthew Mott. He will work alongside interim coach Marcus Trescothick during the series.

Lancashire will also be bolstered by the return of Saqib Mahmood and Phil Salt, who were rested for the Championship defeat to Surrey. Liam Livingstone and George Dockrell are also expected to be available.

Mahmood’s workload is being carefully managed after two injury-plagued summers, while Salt has been nursing a back injury. Benkenstein believes that having a full-strength team for the knockout stages gives Lancashire a “best chance” of reaching Finals Day.

However, Buttler and other England players named in the T20 squad will not be available for Finals Day on September 14, which clashes with the second and third T20Is against Australia.

County Cricket Schedule Remains Unchanged Despite Player Concerns

County Cricket Schedule Remains Unchanged Despite Player Concerns

Despite concerns raised by players about the demanding schedule, the volume of men’s county cricket in England will remain largely unchanged in 2025. A survey conducted by the Professional Cricketers’ Association (PCA) revealed that over 80% of players expressed concerns about their physical well-being due to the packed schedule.

However, the only modifications for the upcoming season will be minor adjustments. Each county will continue to play a minimum of 14 County Championship matches, eight Metro Bank Cup matches, and 14 Vitality T20 Blast matches.

The PCA continues to advocate for gradual changes, such as spreading out T20 fixtures throughout the week to reduce tight turnarounds and implementing uniform three-day gaps between Championship matches.

“There’s definitely room for improvement in 2025 compared to 2024,” said Daryl Mitchell, the PCA’s interim chief executive. “The schedule can definitely be managed better.”

The main point of contention for the 2025 schedule revolves around the T20 Blast and the timing of the knockout stages. In 2023, the knockout stages were held immediately after the group stages in July, allowing counties to retain their overseas players. This year, they will be held in September, giving clubs more time to sell tickets for home quarter-finals.

Kent’s T20 captain Sam Billings criticized this year’s Blast schedule as “ridiculous,” arguing that holding the final two months after the group stages “just does not make sense.” However, it is understood that T20 Finals Day is likely to remain in September next year, potentially overlapping with England’s white-ball series against South Africa.

“Everyone’s in agreement that the schedule isn’t perfect, is it?” Mitchell said. “The ECB and the counties – particularly the directors of cricket that I’ve spoken to – are on board with what we’ve said. I don’t think players in general would actually want a significant reduction in cricket, maybe just a few days here and there… we’re looking for small, incremental change.”

The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) recently announced the international fixtures for the 2025 summer, including incoming men’s tours from Zimbabwe, India, West Indies, and South Africa, as well as women’s tours from West Indies and India. The Hundred will be played in August, starting immediately after the fifth Test against India and running until the end of the month.

Peter Handscomb to Captain Leicestershire in T20 Blast

Peter Handscomb to Captain Leicestershire in T20 Blast

Peter Handscomb, the experienced Australian batsman, has been appointed as the captain of Leicestershire for the upcoming T20 Blast season. Despite his limited recent exposure to the format, Leicestershire’s director of cricket, Claude Henderson, believes Handscomb possesses the necessary qualities to lead the team.

Handscomb has only played six matches in the Big Bash League over the past two seasons, but his extensive experience in other formats has convinced Leicestershire that he is the right man for the job. The Foxes are aiming to qualify for T20 Finals Day for the first time since 2011, when they won their third title.

“I’m very excited to lead this team,” said Handscomb. “The balance of the side looks good and hopefully we can perform to the standards we’ve set ourselves.”

Handscomb initially joined Leicestershire for six County Championship fixtures last year, but his deal was extended, and he ended up playing five times in the Blast, including three as captain. He signed a two-year extension to cover 2024 and 2025 at the end of last season and is their leading Championship run-scorer this season.

Leicestershire won the Metro Bank Cup last year and hope to replicate that success in the T20 Blast. “We showed in the One Day Cup last year what we can do in white-ball cricket, so it’s an exciting prospect to try and replicate that in the T20s this year,” said Handscomb. “We want to entertain and play a fun brand of cricket.”

Henderson said: “Pete holds all the necessary qualities we are looking for in a captain. Not only does he possess extensive leadership experience, but he is also an incredibly calm head on the field and a highly respected voice in the changing room.”

Leicestershire finished bottom of the North Group last summer with two wins from 14 games, but they have added several new players to their squad in the off-season, including Ben Mike, Liam Trevaskis, Scott Currie, and Ben Cox. Wiaan Mulder will also return to the club as their other overseas player, alongside Handscomb. Rehan Ahmed should be available throughout after he was left out of England’s T20 World Cup squad.

Leicestershire’s first Blast fixture is against Yorkshire on May 31. The tournament’s group stage runs until July 19, with the quarter-finals and Finals Day due to take place in September.

Warwickshire Signs Pakistani All-Rounder Aamer Jamal

Warwickshire Signs Pakistani All-Rounder Aamer Jamal

Warwickshire has bolstered its squad with the acquisition of Pakistani all-rounder Aamer Jamal on a multi-format contract until the end of July. Jamal’s signing comes amidst his omission from Pakistan’s ongoing T20I series against New Zealand.

Jamal made a remarkable debut in Test cricket, claiming 18 wickets in three matches against Australia late last year. He has also featured in six T20Is for Pakistan. Despite attending a training camp at the Pakistan Military Academy earlier this month, he was not selected for the T20 World Cup squad.

Warwickshire’s performance director, Gavin Larsen, expressed excitement about Jamal’s arrival, stating that he is eager to make an immediate impact. Coach Mark Robinson will make a late decision on Jamal’s inclusion in the team for their County Championship match against Nottinghamshire on Friday.

Larsen praised Jamal’s impressive performance in Australia, highlighting his pace, bounce, and combative approach. He believes Jamal could have been a strong contender for the player of the series award, which was ultimately given to Pat Cummins.

Jamal joins fellow Pakistani Hasan Ali in Warwickshire’s squad. Ali was also left out of the New Zealand series and will fill one of the team’s two permitted overseas spots until the end of July. His contract includes an option to extend into September.

Warwickshire will be without T20 captain Moeen Ali for the first half of the Blast due to his expected inclusion in England’s provisional T20 World Cup squad. The club has strengthened its T20 bowling attack with the additions of George Garton and Richard Gleeson, although Gleeson’s availability for the start of the Blast is uncertain due to his involvement in the IPL playoffs.

Elsewhere, Sam Cook will lead Essex for the first time against Durham, while Ollie Pope and Gus Atkinson are included in Surrey’s squad to face Hampshire. In Division Two, Rehan Ahmed returns to Leicestershire’s squad after a pilgrimage, and Josh Hull makes his comeback from a side strain.

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