ICC T20 World Cup 2021: Steve Smith ready to forgo T20 World Cup 2021 for upcoming Ashes.



ICC T20 World Cup 2021: Star Australian batsman Steve Smith, who is recuperating from elbow injury, prioritises the upcoming Ashes 2021-22 ahead of the ICC T20 World Cup 2021. The cricketer said he is ready to skip the World Cup in order to be fit for the high profile Australia vs England Ashes Series.



Owing to his elbow injury, Smith had earlier pulled out of Australia's West Indies tour for limited overs cricket.



"There's still a bit of time between now and (the T20 World Cup), and I'm tracking okay at the moment - it's slow, but I'm going okay," Smith told cricket.com.au.



The T20 World Cup 2021 has been officially shifted from India to the UAE and Oman following the drastic situations in India. The tournament will begin on October 17, two days after the final of Indian Premier League (IPL).



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While this year?s Ashes series is scheduled to begin on 8th December in Brisbane.



 Smith while talking to cricket.com.au said he wishes to be the part of the World Cup team but test cricket for him is pennacle.? 



"I'd love to be part of the World Cup, for sure, but from my point of view, Test cricket, that's my main goal - to be right for the Ashes and try to emulate what I've done in the last few Ashes series I've been involved in," he said.



The 32-years old cricketer went on to pile up 774 runs in seven innings of Ashes 2019 after he stepped inside the cricket field ending his two years ban due to ball tampering scandal.



"I want to put myself in a position where I can have that kind of impact," said Smith. "If that does mean not partaking in the World Cup, then we'll have to go down that path, but hopefully we don't have to go there."



With all his statements, Steve Smith is very likely to draw out from the second phase of the Indian Premier League (IPL) which is scheduled in the UAE. ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/englands-ollie-robinson-cleared-to-play-cricket-following-racist-slurs/">England?s Ollie Robinson Cleared To Play International Cricket Following Racist Slurs</a>



ICC T20 World Cup 2021: Steve Smith ready to forgo T20 World Cup 2021 for upcoming Ashes.

ICC T20 World Cup 2021: Steve Smith ready to forgo T20 World Cup 2021 for upcoming Ashes

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The Ashes 2021-22 in danger as English players likely to pull out if families are not allowed.



The Ashes 2021-22: The marquee event in the history of England and Australia?s test cricket is all set to face a severe setback as the English players are contemplating pulling out of the upcoming season of ?The Ashes? due to the issue of family amid the ongoing pandemic.



The tournament is still five months away but has already started raising eyebrows of the fans and supporters. The stringent border restrictions of the Australian government has initiated a rift among the English players as none of them wants to be away from their families for a long tour.



Not long ago Australia once again saw a surge in the covid positive cases after a couple of major cities failed in successfully administering the vaccination drive.



For almost two years now, the sport of cricket is being played in a controlled environment. The mentally taxing bio-bubbles are now a regular process for all players and teams.



The reports from a prominent news outlet BBC suggest that a few English players are contemplating withdrawing from the all-important Ashes 2021-22 series if the families are not allowed to travel with them.



Australia vs England five matches Ashes series will begin on 8th December in Brisbane. Moreover, players of both the teams will be in UAE and Oman during October-November for the T20 World Cup 2021.&nbsp;



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The Ashes 2021-22 in danger as English players likely to pull out if families are not allowed.



The cricketers will be away from their families for a long time, close to four months if they participate in the T20 World Cup 2021 and the Ashes, while the duration will extend if some Australians and English players take part in the Vivo IPL 2021 which is also scheduled in the UAE, starting September 19.



<h2>Cricket Australia finding solution:</h2>



It is expected that both the cricket boards, England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) along with Cricket Australia (CA), will come to a simplified solution considering the time they have to organise the series.



If the reports are to be believed, CA is working closely with the Australian government to ease up the restrictions of the cricketers and their families for the all-important high-octane Ashes series 2021-22.



Complete Schedule for the Ashes 2021-22:



<figure class="wp-block-table is-style-stripes"><table><tbody><tr><td>Day/Date</td><td>Match Details</td><td>Venue/Ground</td></tr><tr><td>Wed-Sun / Dec 08 - Dec 12</td><td>Australia vs England, 1st Test</td><td>The Gabba, Brisbane</td></tr><tr><td>Thu-Mon / Dec 16 - Dec 20</td><td>Australia vs England, 2nd Test</td><td>Adelaide Oval, Adelaide</td></tr><tr><td>Sun-Thu / Dec 26 - Dec 30</td><td>Australia vs England, 3rd Test</td><td>Melbourne Cricket Ground, Melbourne</td></tr><tr><td>Wed-Sun / Jan 05 - Jan 09</td><td>Australia vs England, 4th Test</td><td>Sydney Cricket Ground, Sydney</td></tr><tr><td>Fri-Tue / Jan 14 - Jan 18</td><td>Australia vs England, 5th Test</td><td>Perth Stadium, Perth</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>



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The Ashes 2021-22 in danger as English players likely to pull out if families are not allowed

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England?s wicket keeping batsman Jos Buttler is likely to miss out on the upcoming marquee Ashes 2021-22 over the concerns of being away from his family for the tour in Australia due to the restrictions imposed by the Australian government.



The English players are scheduled to play the T20 World Cup 2021 in the UAE during October November following the second phase of the IPL 2021.&nbsp;



Buttler has already withdrawn his participation in the upcoming Vivo IPL 2021, as he and his wife are expecting their second child.&nbsp;



"One of the challenges is working out where the line is where you say I can?t do that,? Buttler told The Times newspaper. ?I have sacrificed a lot and my wife and family have sacrificed a lot.?



"You have to be open to" saying no, he said. "It would be incredibly disappointing if some players feel like they can't do it, but we are in the world at the moment where that is a possibility,? Buttler told.



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England?s Jos Buttler likely to miss Ashes 2021-22 due to covid restrictions.



The English players are in a fix whether they would be allowed to keep their families with them or not in Australia tour. England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) is in constant talks with their Australian counterparts to get assurance and set a secure passage for the cricketers.



As of now, the Australian borders are closed to restrict the covid-19 in the country. The limited number of flights with some chosen countries are on and the travellers serve a 14 days quarantine in order to be free in the country.



"COVID is incredibly challenging for everyone and Australia has a very strict policy in how they have tried to deal with it,? said Buttler.



?Until we get more information about what it (the Australia tour) might look like, it's impossible to know what decision you are making.?



ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/rajasthan-royals-jos-buttler-pulled-out-of-ipl-2021-glenn-philips-added/">Vivo IPL 2021: Rajasthan Royals Jos Buttler Pulled Out Of IPL 2021, Glenn Philips Added</a>

England?s Jos Buttler likely to miss Ashes 2021-22 due to covid restrictions

englands-jos-buttler-likely-to-miss-ashes-2021-22-due-to-covid-restrictions

ECB gives green signal to men?s Ashes tour with few terms and conditions.



The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) after rounds of meetings confirmed the approval of the Men?s Ashes tour 2021-22 on Saturday. However, the cricket board has placed some terms and conditions before the English contingent will fly to Australia.



Owing to strict and irritating quarantine rules in Australia, the cancellation of the Men?s Ashes tour was doing rounds on social media with several cricketers asking the hosts to cut down on the severe covid protocols.



The ECB in a statement, on Saturday, provided a conditional approval to the big tour, scheduled to be held in December in Australia.



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"Over recent weeks we have made excellent progress in moving forward on the England men's Ashes tour," the statement said.



"To facilitate further progress and allow a squad to be selected, the ECB board has met today and given its approval for the tour to go ahead. This decision is subject to several critical conditions being met before we travel.



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"We look forward to the ongoing assistance from Cricket Australia in resolving these matters in the coming days."



The Englishmen are concerned about living away from their families for a long period. Multi-format players such as Jos Buttler, Jonny Bairstow and others will have to be away from their families for around five to six months due to multiple tours and ICC events.



Buttler has already made clear that he will not tour Australia without his wife and children. It is noteworthy that Jos and his wife Louise gave birth to a baby boy last month. The cricketer will participate in the ICC T20 World Cup 2021 in October and following which they will fly to Australia if certain required conditions are met by the Australian Cricket Board.



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ECB gives green signal to men?s Ashes tour with few terms and conditions

ecb-gives-green-signal-to-mens-ashes-tour-with-few-terms-and-conditions

England?s Ben Stokes announce his arrival in Ashes 2021-22 in Australia.



English all-rounder Ben Stokes has now confirmed to make his comeback in cricket after a long four and a half months of rest and rehabilitation. The all-rounder is pumped-up to join the English squad for the Ashes 2021-22 in Australia.



Stokes, 30-years old, hasn?t played any competitive cricket since July 26 as he went on for an indefinite break to support his mental wellbeing. He represented Northern Superchargers in The Hundred with an injured finger before announcing an indefinite break from all sorts of cricket.



England?s mainstay was not included in the India tour of England for five test matches and is also not named in England?s T20 World Cup 2021 squad.



During his break, Stokes underwent a successful surgery to treat his finger injury, which he sustained during the Vivo IPL 2021 phase one in April. The all-rounder has begun his moderate training and will ramp up the process in the coming weeks before joining the English test squad for Ashes.



"I had a break to prioritise my mental wellbeing and I got my finger sorted," Stokes said. "I am looking forward to seeing my mates and being on the field with them. I'm ready for Australia."



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The Ashes 2021-22 is slated to begin December 8 in Brisbane?s Gaba. The final test will be played from January 14, 2022.



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England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has already added the superstar all-rounder, Ben Stokes, to England?s Test squad for the Ashes 2021-22.&nbsp;



Ashley Giles, England Men?s cricket managing director, said that the management will take cautious steps towards the progress of Ben Stokes, as the cricketer hasn?t played a single competitive match for four and a half months.&nbsp;



?We will move forward cautiously over the next few weeks to ensure he (Ben Stokes) is fully prepared across all facets of his game,? said Ashley Giles.



He further reckons that the addition of Ben to the English side will be excellent news for the coach and the skipper.



?Having him available for the Ashes series is excellent news for all of us and, in particular, Chris [Silverwood], Joe [Root] and the rest of the players.?



<h2>England Squad for the Ashes 2021-22:</h2>



Joe Root ?,? Dawid Malan, Jonathan Bairstow, Stuart Broad, Jos Buttler, Zak Crawley, Haseeb Hameed, Dan Lawrence, Dom Bess,? James Anderson, Jack Leach, Craig Overton, Ollie Pope, Ollie Robinson, Chris Woakes, Rory Burns, Mark Wood and Ben Stokes.



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England?s Ben Stokes announce his arrival in Ashes 2021-22 in Australia

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Australian test skipper Tim Paine steps down from his role following the ?sexting? scandal.



Australian test skipper Tim Paine has decided to relinquish his roles and responsibilities weeks ahead of the start of Men?s Ashes 2021-22. The decision came after Paine was investigated over his "sexting" scandals by Cricket Australia (CA).



Tim Paine was involved in an off-field sexting scandal with a co-worker during 2017 at Cricket Tasmania. Back then, a joint investigation from Cricket Australia and Cricket Tasmania found no breach in Tim Paine?s explicit messages to his then-colleague.



It?s noteworthy, Australia and England will lock horns in the first test match of the Ashes 2021-22 on 8th December in Brisbane. Now as Paine has stepped down from his leadership, the cricket board will now be on its front foot to announce the next Test skipper for Australia as soon as possible.



"Today, I'm announcing my decision to stand down as the captain of the Australian men's test team. It's an incredibly difficult decision, but the right one for me, my family, and cricket," Paine read out from a statement at the presser.



The Aussie cricketer confirmed the accusations imposed on him during the press conference as he admitted that he was involved in an off-field text exchange.



As a background on my decision, nearly four years ago, I was involved in a text exchange with a then-colleague. At the time, the exchange was the subject of a thorough CA Integrity Unit investigation, throughout which I fully participated in.



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"That investigation and a Cricket Tasmania HR investigation at the same time found that there had been no breach of the Cricket Australia Code of Conduct. Although exonerated, I deeply regretted this incident at the time, and still do today. I spoke to my wife and family at the time and am enormously grateful for their forgiveness and support. We thought this incident was behind us and that I could focus entirely on the team, as I have done for the last three or four years.



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"However, I recently became aware that this private text exchange was going to become public. On reflection, my actions in 2017 do not meet the standard of an Australian cricket captain, or the wider community. I'm deeply sorry for the hurt and pain that I have caused to my wife, my family, and to the other party. I'm sorry for any damage that this does to the reputation of our sport.



"And I believe that it is the right decision for me to stand down as captain, effective immediately. I do not want this to become an unwelcome disruption to the team ahead of what is a huge Ashes Series."



Tim will no longer serve Australian cricket as the skipper but will have his roles in the team as a batter.



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Australian test skipper Tim Paine steps down from his role following ?sexting? scandal

australian-test-skipper-tim-paine-steps-down-from-his-role-following-sexting-scandal

CA appoints Pat Cummins as captain of Australia?s Men?s Test side.



In an important development ahead of the Men?s Ashes series 2021-22, Cricket Australia (CA) on Friday confirmed the appointment of ace pacer Pat Cummins as the leader of Australia?s Men?s Test team. He will replace Tim Paine from the role.



Cummins has been appointed Australian 47th Men?s Test captain and is the only pacer to be given a full-time leadership role. Earlier, fast bowler Ray Lindwall in 1956 led the Australian Test side in a match, but that was just a stand-in role in absence of the regular skipper.



CA has also brought back Steve Smith to the leadership role as he will be Pat Cummins deputy in the longest format.&nbsp;



The development came a week after Tim Paine, then Australian Test skipper stepped down from his role following the disclosure of the sexting scandal he was a part of during 2017.



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ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/australian-test-skipper-tim-paine-steps-down-from-his-role-following-sexting-scandal/">Australian test skipper Tim Paine steps down from his role following ?sexting? scandal</a>



It is noteworthy, prior to Tim Paine, Steve Smith was the Australian Test skipper, however, he was sacked from the role after the famous ball-tampering incident in Cape Town. He lost his captaincy and was subsequently banned for 2 years from international cricket.



?I am honored to accept this role ahead of what will be a massive Ashes summer,? Cummins said in a statement. ?I hope I can provide the same leadership Tim (Paine) has given the group in the past few years.?



?Pat is an outstanding player and leader,? Cricket Australia chief executive Nick Hockley said. ?He has earned enormous respect from his teammates and from all corners of the game for his attitude and achievements, both on and off the field.`?



The Ashes 2021-22 between Australia and England is slated to begin on 8th December 2021 in Brisbane.



Amidst all this, Tim Paine has announced his indefinite mental health break from international cricket. Cricket Tasmania in a statement on Friday said Tim Paine will quit all forms of cricket for the ?foreseeable future."



There were long-standing deliberations going on amongst the Cricket Australia (CA) officials whether Tim should participate in the opening Ashes test match against England in Brisbane or now, however, his decision to take a break has put an abrupt suspension to the debate.



?Following discussions over the last 24 hours, Tim Paine has advised Cricket Tasmania that he will be taking a leave of absence from all forms of cricket for the foreseeable future," it said in a statement.



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CA appoints Pat Cummins as captain of Australia?s Men?s Test side

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The Ashes 2021-22: The all-important test series of the Ashes 2021-22 is just around the corner. The test series is all set to commence on 8th December at Brisbane?s Gaba. Here this article will take you through all the details of the test series - The Ashes 2021-22 Complete Schedule, Fixtures, England and Australia Squad, Players and Venues.



Earlier, the series was on the verge of cancellation due to the Australian Government?s covid-19 guidelines for visitors. The Englishmen were reluctant to visit Down Under following such harsh rules and covid protocols.



As per the rules, English players were not allowed to be accompanied by any of their family members, however, a few rounds of talks have simplified the equation as the families are now allowed.



The last edition of the Men?s Ashes was held in 2019 which concluded on a dramatic draw at Kennington Oval, London. Before that, Australia bagged the series in 2017-18 at their backyard with a 4-0 lead.&nbsp;



<h2>Men?s Ashes 2021-22 Complete Schedule &amp; Fixture:</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-table"><table><tbody><tr><td>DATE</td><td>Match Details</td><td>VENUE</td></tr><tr><td>December 8-12, 2021</td><td>1st Australia vs England Test Match</td><td>The Gabba, Brisbane</td></tr><tr><td>December 16-20, 2021</td><td>2nd Australia vs England Test Match</td><td>Adelaide Oval, Adelaide</td></tr><tr><td>December 26-30, 2021</td><td>3rd Australia vs England Test Match</td><td>Melbourne Cricket Ground, Melbourne</td></tr><tr><td>January 5-9, 2022</td><td>4th Australia vs England Test Match</td><td>Sydney Cricket Ground, Sydney</td></tr><tr><td>January 14-18, 2022</td><td>5th Australia vs England Test Match</td><td>Optus Stadium, Perth</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>



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<h2>Men?s Ashes 2021-22 Squads:</h2>



<h3>Australia?s Squad:</h3>



Pat Cummins (C), Steve Smith, Marcus Harris, Alex Carey, Cameron Green, Josh Hazlewood, Michael Neser, Travis Head, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, Mitchell Swepson, Jhye Richardson, David Warner.?



<h3>England?s Squad:?</h3>



Joe Root (c), Jonathan Bairstow, Dom Bess, Dawid Malan, Stuart Broad, Rory Burns, James Anderson, Jos Buttler, Zak Crawley, Ollie Pope, Haseeb Hameed, Dan Lawrence, Jack Leach, Craig Overton, Ollie Robinson, Ben Stokes, Chris Woakes, Mark Wood.



<h2>Men?s Ashes 2021-22 Broadcast &amp; Telecast Details:</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-table"><table><tbody><tr><td>Country</td><td>Live Stream / Broadcast</td></tr><tr><td>India</td><td>Sony Network / Jio TV / Sony Liv App</td></tr><tr><td>United Kingdom</td><td>BT Sports</td></tr><tr><td>United States of America</td><td>Willow TV</td></tr><tr><td>South Africa</td><td>Supersport</td></tr><tr><td>Australia</td><td>Channel 9</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>



<h2>Ashes 2021-22 Updates:?</h2>



<ul><li>Australian Test captain Tim Paine has stepped down from captaincy following allegations of a sexting scandal. Paine has also announced his break from cricket following the investigaations.</li><li>Cricket Australia (CA) has appointed ace pacer Pat Cummins as the skipper of Australia?s test side.</li></ul>



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<ul><li>Steve Smith has been named Vice-captain of the team.</li><li>All-rounder Ben Stokes is also available for the all-important Ashes 2021-22.</li></ul>



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The Ashes 2021-22: Schedule, Fixture, Squad, Player, Venues, Broadcast

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Shane Warne, a former Australian cricketer, has stated that he had a conversation with Steve Smith. A call from the batter informed him of the widespread public displeasure and criticism of his selection as the vice-captain of the Test squad, he claimed in a statement. The former spinner went on to say that both of them spoke it out and respected one other's viewpoints on the matter.



Smith was barred from performing leadership responsibilities due to the sandpaper incident that occurred in South Africa in 2018. On the other hand, Smith signaled his return to the leadership post after being designated as Pat Cummins's replacement. Before this, Warne had claimed that the batter did not deserve to be the one who had to bear the burden. He has also criticized Cricket Australia (CA) for the same reason.



"I had a conversation with Steve Smith. He sent me a message saying, 'Jeez, you're being a little hard on me, aren't you?' and we had a good chat about it. That is what respect accomplishes. Just because someone does not agree with your point of view does not imply that you must be rude and personal about it. Everyone is entitled to their own viewpoint,"?Warne stated after the first day of the first Ashes Test in 2021, in an interview with <a href="https://www.foxsports.com.au/cricket/the-ashes/australia-vs-england-ashes-2021-steve-smith-contacted-shane-warne-after-public-criticism-video-highlights/news-story/056d80cd77d2558d733c1b78eb2e3db1" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Fox Cricket</a>.



<h2>I was overjoyed. Steve Smith got in touch with me: Shane Warne?</h2>



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When asked how he felt after Day 1 of the first Ashes Test at the Gabba, Warne said he was grateful that Smith had phoned him. He went on to say that the two of them had previously worked together at the Rajasthan Royals and that they had a great deal of respect for one another.



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"I was delighted when Steve Smith got in touch with me since I consider him a friend. At the Rajasthan Royals, we've participated in team meetings and worked together. I used to work with him when he was bowling, and I believe he was a leg-spinner at one point. So, we have mutual regard for one another, and it was kind of him to call me and ask, 'Mate, why did you believe that? I explained my point of view to him, and he responded by saying, 'I get it, and I'm sure a lot of other people feel the same way,'" Warne stated.



The former spinner elaborated on the chat, stating that both of them had decided to politely disagree on the subject matter at hand. Warne said what Smith told him,&nbsp;"Mate, you've been in the game for 30 or so years, you've earned the right to have your opinion, and I respect it, but I just do not agree with it. If you have a different point of view, that's OK; I just believe there's been too much of it."&nbsp;

Shane Warne discloses Smith's answer to his vice-captaincy criticism|Shane Warne discloses Smith's answer to his vice-captaincy criticism

Shane Warne Discloses Steve Smith's Answer To Shane Warne's Criticism Of him Being Australia's Test?Vice-Captain

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Ben Stokes should replace Joe Root as England?s test captain, says Brad Haddin: 2021 has been a mixed year for England?s Test captain Joe Root. On one side, he has been a massive success for England as the test batsman, having scored mammoth over 1600 runs in the calendar year, while the other side, which apparently is his test captaincy, has remained dismal throughout the year.



Root?s captaincy hasn?t delighted anyone. He has been called out several times for taking poor decisions, especially during the ongoing Ashes 2021-22.?



England under Joe Root?s captaincy lost to India in India, lost to New Zealand in England, lost to India in England and is on the verge of losing the all-important Ashes 2021-22 after getting beaten the first two matches against Australia.



The cricket fraternity has even voiced to sack Joe Root from the test captaincy and appoint a brand new skipper in Ben Stokes, who seems tactically more correct and accurate than his teammate.



The same has been said by former Australian stumper-batsman Brad Haddin, ?Stokes tactically is the best captain.?



?What they did really well tactically was the fourth morning. Who was off [the field]? Joe Root. Ben Stokes took over and it just looked a lot calmer. He had a plan, the bowlers bowled fuller, he had catching midwickets and short covers. They bowled at the stumps and they challenged Australia. They took four wickets for, I think, under 20 runs and they put Australia under pressure,? said Hayden on Triple M Cricket.



?Root came back on and it all went downhill again. So, to me something?s not quite right. I think Ben Stokes tactically is the best captain. If you look at the first two Test matches, they haven?t got it right,? he added.?



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<h2>Our bowlers need to bowl a bit more fuller:</h2>



Moreover, the cricket fraternity has bashed Joe Root for putting all the blame for losing the Day/Night test match on bowlers.&nbsp;



Root after losing the match by a massive 275 runs said that the bowlers didn?t bowl the right areas.



?He [Root] is involved in the selection committee with the coach and the coach has come out and said ?we?ve picked the right teams?. The bowling coach said, ?you haven?t picked the right teams? and then Joe Root said, ?you?re not bowling the right lengths," said Brad Haddin.



Former Australian captain Ricky Ponting has also slammed Root for his blunt statement on the failure of his bowling unit.



Ponting criticised the English skipper for asserting his bowlers needs to be a bit braver, and said, ?I nearly fell off my seat when I heard that. Whose job is it then to make them [bowlers] change? Why are you captain then? If you can?t influence your bowlers on what length to bowl, what are you doing on the field??



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Ben Stokes should replace Joe Root as England?s test captain, says Brad Haddin

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IND vs ENG: Former Indian cricketer Ravichandran Ashwin has announced his playing XI for the first T20I against England. The match between the two teams is all set to take place on Wednesday (22nd January) at the iconic Eden Gardens in Kolkata.
India and England will be locking horns with each other in the five-match T20I series. Both teams have a mixed combination of seniors and youngsters in the team, and with the way they have played of late, it's fair to say that it will be an exciting series to watch. 
Coming to the first T20I, Ravichandran Ashwin backed Sanju Samson and Abhishek Sharma to open the innings for the team. The duo has been doing a decent job together as an opener and would be hoping to carry on the same form in the upcoming first match. 
Sanju Samson was at his exceptional best in the T20Is last year as he slammed three tons. While on the other hand, Abhishek Sharma hasn't been able to maintain consistency. Hence the series will be extremely important for him with the bat. 
At No.3, Ravichandran Ashwin picked Tilak Varma. The left-hander oozed his class with the bat in the last series against South Africa. He batted at No.3 and slammed two back-to-back centuries. Skipper Suryakumar Yadav, as per Ashwin, will bat at No.4.
Hardik Pandya, Nitish Kumar Reddy and Axar Patel are the three all-rounders picked by Ravichandran Ashwin in his Indian XI for the first IND vs ENG T20I. They are expected to play a major role with the bat and ball. 
Rinku Singh also has been picked by Ravichandran Ashwin in his Indian XI for the first IND vs ENG team. He will be taking the role of finisher while there was no place for Ravi Bishnoi, who hard has put a foot wrong in his T20I career. Varun Chakravarthy will be there as per Ashwin. 
Mohammed Shami and Arshdeep Singh are the two fast bowlers picked by Ravichandran Ashwin for the first IND vs ENG XI. Shami will be making his comeback to the team after a year, while Arshdeep will be keen to make an impact. 
<h2>IND vs ENG: Ravichandran Ashwin's Indian XI for the first T20I </h2>
Here's Ravichandran Ashwin's Indian XI for the first T20I 
Sanju Samson, Abhishek Sharma, Tilak Verma, Suryakumar Yadav, Hardik Pandya, Rinku Singh, Axar Patel, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Varun Chakravarthy, Arshdeep Singh, Mohammed Shami
Also Read: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/arshdeep-singh-on-the-verge-become-the-greatest-indian-fast-bowler-in-t20is-/#google_vignette">Arshdeep Singh on the verge become the greatest Indian fast bowler in T20Is</a>

Ravichandran Ashwin names India XI for first IND vs ENG T20I {PC:X}

India and England will be locking horns with each other in the five-match T20I series

IND vs ENG: Former Indian cricketer Ravichandran Ashwin has announced his playing XI for the first T20I against England.

IND vs ENG: Ravichandran Ashwin picks his Indian XI for the first T20I against England, no place for Ravi Bishnoi

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Former Pakistan cricketer Basit Ali talked about the delay in the squad of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 for the Pakistan team. He said that it might look like they are scared of announcing the team, but it seems that they don't know what to do. 
The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is around the corner and all the teams have named their squad for the tournament except the hosts Pakistan. The Men in Green are yet to announce the team even though the deadline of 12th January has already been surpassed by a long margin. 
India, Australia, England, South Africa, New Zealand, Bangladesh, and Afghanistan have all revealed their squad for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. This has made many speculate about why Pakistan isn't announcing their squad for the tournament, which is less than one month away. 
There have been several reports that Pakistan will be announcing their squad for the tournament soon. They are awaiting the fitness of a few players, and hence, they will soon be naming the team. Some reports also have revealed the players who will be playing, but an official announcement is yet to come. 
<h2>Pakistan kya darr gaya jo abhi tak team announce nahi ki? Nahi dara nahi hai. Samajh nahi aa rahi hai - Basit Ali </h2>
Amid all this, former Pakistan cricketer Basit Ali commented on the same, saying that no one knows what is happening. He speculated that they might be waiting for the fitness report on Saim Ayub. Speaking in a video posted on his YouTube channel, he explained: 
"Pakistan kya darr gaya jo abhi tak team announce nahi ki? Nahi dara nahi hai. Samajh nahi aa rahi hai -- karein to kya karein? (Is Pakistan scared to announce their squad? No, it isn't, just unsure what to do and what not). The biggest issue is whether Saim Ayub can return fit or not. It's still not clear." 
It remains to be seen when will Pakistan announce the squad for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. The tournament is all set to take place from 19th February, with the final all set to be played on 9th March.
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Pakistan squad for ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is yet to be announced {PC:X}

Former Pakistan cricketer Basit Ali talked about the delay in the squad of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 for the Pakistan team.

The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is around the corner and all the teams have named their squad for the tournament except the hosts Pakistan.

"Pakistan darr gaya"- PCB attacked as they are yet to announce ICC Champions Trophy 2025 squad

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The International Cricket Council (ICC) has issued a warning to the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) over the jersey controversy ahead of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. This comes after the Indian governing body refused to write 'Pakistan' on their kits for the tournament. 
The ICC Champions Trophy 2025, which is all set to be hosted by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), is scheduled to begin on 19th February. The preparations for the tournament are on, and the ICC and the PCB are taking every step possible to make sure that everything is right on track. 
However, a controversy recently erupted after BCCI refused to write Pakistan on their jersey for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. Notably, every participating nation, as per the ICC policy, has to write the name of the host nation below the logo of the tournament on their jersey. 
After BCCI refused to sport it, Pakistan Cricket Board officials made a strong statement, saying that BCCI is trying to use politics in every matter. He, however, mentioned that they are hopeful that ICC will support them and India will be asked to write the name of the jersey on their kits for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. 
<h2>It is the responsibility of every team to add the tournament logo to their jerseys - ICC official </h2>
Following this, BCCI also reacted, and the insider from the governing body said that since they are playing in Dubai, it isn't mandatory for them to wear the 'Pakistan written jersey'. The BCCI also stressed that they didn't write Pakistan's name on the podium of the Trophy tours as well. 
Amid all this, ICC has come up with a strong response for the BCCI. An ICC official mentioned that it is the responsibility of the host nation to add the tournament logo to their jersey. He stated: 
"It is the responsibility of every team to add the tournament logo to their jerseys. All teams are obligated to comply with this rule," an ICC official said as per A-Sports, as quoted by NDTV. 
Not only this, it is learned that the ICC also warned BCCI that they would be taking strict action if they didn't wear the Pakistan-written jersey during the tournament.
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The ICC Champions Trophy 2025, which is all set to be hosted by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), is scheduled to begin on 19th February.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has issued a warning to the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) over the jersey controversy ahead of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.

ICC launches attack at BCCI over jersey controversy, gives 'Strict action' warning for not wearing 'Pakistan' printed kits

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India fast bowler Arshdeep Singh is all set to achieve the most massive feat in the history of T20I cricket in the upcoming T20I series against England. The series between the teams will begin on 22nd January at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata. 
Arshdeep Singh is just 5 wickets away from becoming the first Indian bowler to pick 100 wickets in the T20Is. With India set to play a five-match T20I series against England, it is expected that the pacer will be achieving the feat in the upcoming series. 
This comes as a remarkable feat because Arshdeep Singh made his debut during 2022, and to reach to 100 wickets within the span of around 2 years is staggering. The left-arm pacer has been nothing short of exceptional in the T20 format and is one of the most consistent performers with the ball for the team. 
Arshdeep Singh has been sensational with the new ball as well as in death. In the last few years, he has proved to be the biggest match-winner for India in T20Is. The pacer has won many games for the team on his own and will be keen to carry on the same form in the upcoming series. 
<h2>Arshdeep Singh was one of the major reasons behind India winning the T20 World Cup 2024</h2>
Arshdeep Singh was one of the major reasons behind India winning the T20 World Cup 2024.  He was the joint-highest wicket-taker in the series with 17 wickets to his name as he oozed his class with both new ball and old ball, helping India to end their title drought.
Arshdeep Singh will be extremely important for India in the upcoming T20I series against England. The pacer will be key for the team alongside Mohammed Shami, who will be making his comeback to the team after a long injury break. The duo will be leading the attack for the team. 
With the kind of performances that he has displayed, Arshdeep Singh is likely to play all five games in the series. It won't be a surprise if he gets to 100 wickets in the first two games of the series against England.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/from-virat-kohli-to-shubman-gill-check-when-big-indian-players-played-the-last-domestic-match/">From Virat Kohli to Shubman Gill: Check when big Indian players played the last domestic match</a>

Arshdeep Singh is just 5 wickets away from becoming the first Indian bowler to pick 100 wickets in the T20Is.

India fast bowler Arshdeep Singh is all set to achieve the most massive feat in the history of T20I cricket in the upcoming T20I series against England.

Arshdeep Singh on the verge become the greatest Indian fast bowler in T20Is

arshdeep-singh-on-the-verge-become-the-greatest-indian-fast-bowler-in-t20is-

The India and Pakistan rivalry has been a great contest on the cricket field, as well as the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, marked by intense competition between the neighbouring nations and passionate fan engagement. It has often been seen that ever since the two teams have stopped playing bilaterals against eachother, these two are featured in every ICC tournament, which draw millions of spectators.  
The rivalry only intensifies, every time the two nations play against eachother, be it the Cricket World Cup or the ICC Champions Trophy. Such has been India’s domination in the ICC events, that they claimed successive wins in both the One-Day as well as the T20 World Cup. However, the Champions Trophy results have been contrasting with Pakistan’s infamous victory in the CT 2017 final against India, as well as their memorable 10-wickets win against India in the T20 World Cup of 2021.    
Clearly, the India vs Pakistan games are celebration of cricket to its peak, where every ball, every run, and every wicket carries the weightage of national pride.
<h2 dir="ltr">Here’s the strongest combined playing XI from the current squads of India and Pakistan for ICC Champions Trophy 2025:</h2>
<h3 dir="ltr">1: Rohit Sharma (C)</h3>
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Rohit Sharma - The Indian skipper at the top (Image Credit: X)
Indian captain and opener Rohit Sharma will be a part of the India-Pakistan combine playing XI. The right-handed batter has exceptional records and stats in ICC tournaments for the Indian Cricket Team.
As of now, Rohit Sharma has scored a total of 10,866 runs with an average of 49.16, including 31 centuries and 57 fifties in ODIs. Sharma has this ability to score quick runs and introduce the x-factor of the game for his side. 
<h3 dir="ltr">2: Babar Azam</h3>
Former Pakistan captain and top-order batter Babar Azam would also be a part of the combined ODI playing XI. Though he has been scorched off form recently and has faced sheer criticism, however, the players great antics cannot be overlooked owing to his sudden dip in form. 
As of now, Babar Azam has managed to score 5,957 runs with an average of 56,73, including 19 centuries and 34 fifties.
<h3 dir="ltr">3: Virat Kohli</h3>
One of the greatest players when it comes to limited overs cricket, Virat Kohli is considered the greatest in the format, while his fearless approach often frightens any bowling attack in the world. 
As of now, Virat Kohli is nearing the great landmark of 14000 ODI runs in international cricket, as he for now has a total of 13,906 runs to his name with an average of 58.18, including 50 centuries and 72 fifties.
<h3 dir="ltr">4: Shreyas Iyer</h3>
Indian middle-order batter <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shreyas_Iyer">Shreyas Iyer </a>has been a consistent player for the men in blue in the ODI format for a long time. Iyer has been a crucial asset to the India middle-order while delivering match-winning performances in the CWC 2023 as well as the Asia Cup. This is the reason he finds himself in place of Indian star wicket-keeper batter Rishabh Pant.  
As of now, Shreyas Iyer has put on a total of 2,421 runs with an average of 47.47, including 5 centuries and 18 fifties.
<h3 dir="ltr">5: Mohammad Rizwan</h3>
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New Pakistan skipper - Mohammad Rizwan (Image Credit: X)
Pakistan wicketkeeper Mohammad Rizwan fins his name in this combined playing XI for India and Pakistan. The currently named skipper of the Pakistan limited-overs side, has produced results after his immediate effect.  
As of now, Mohammad Rizwan has scored a total of 2,352 runs with an average of 41.26, including 3 centuries and 15 fifties, however, he is one of the most standout players for Pakistan in the middle-order. 
<h3 dir="ltr">6: Hardik Pandya</h3>
Indian all-rounder <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hardik_Pandya">Hardik Pandya</a> has been the asset for the Indian side, winning matches on several occasions. Pandya has been a responsible batsman down the order with an exemplary record against Pakistan. He on several occasions has won matches for India single-handedly, be it with the bat or with the ball. 
As of now, Hardik Pandya has scored 1769 runs and has taken 84 wickets for the Indian side in the 50-over format.
<h3 dir="ltr">7: Shadab Khan</h3>
Shadab Khan, the Leg-spin bowling all-rounder has been a crucial player for the Pakistan cricket team in recent times.Though Shadab Khan has not featured much for Pakistan in recent times, his services have been relished by the nation when it comes to limited-overs cricket. 
As of now, Shadab Khan has 855 runs and 85 wickets for the Pakistan side to his name.
<h3 dir="ltr">8: Kuldeep Yadav</h3>
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Kuldeep Yadav: The wizard for India in the sub-continent (Image Credit: X)
Kuldeep Yadav, the left-arm Chinaman bowler, has had an immense impact on India’s performances under sub-continent conditions. He is known for his standout services in the ODI format and hence features as the only main spin bowling option in the 11.
As of now, Kuldeep Yadav has taken 172 wickets for the Indian side with an economy of just 4.99.
<h3 dir="ltr">9: Shaheen Shah Afridi</h3>
Shaheen Shah Afridi has seemingly restored his form after his work stress was reduced, as the pacer has this supreme ability to swing the new ball on both sides. For Pakistan, Shaheen has been a proven matchwinner in several high-profile games in ICC tournaments.
As of now, Shaheen Shah Afridi has picked 119 wickets for the Pakistan Cricket Team with an economy of 5.49.
<h3 dir="ltr">10: Jasprit Bumrah</h3>
India’s most deadliest fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah is one of the most feared bowlers in the world currently. Bumrah is an exceptional pacer in all phases of the game, and he can deliver the maximum impact with the new ball as well as in the death overs. Bumrah has not played many ODIs owing to his frequent injuries and still remains doubtful for the Champions Trophy 2025. 
As of now, Jasprit Bumrah has taken a total of 149 wickets with an economy of 4.59 for the Indian side.
<h3 dir="ltr">11: Mohammed Shami</h3>
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Mohammed Shami's return to the Indian side for the Champions Trophy (Image Credit: X) 
Mohammed Shami, the most experienced right-arm fast bowler for India, is set to feature in the upcoming Champions Trophy, as he has never featured for the Indian team ever since the last Cricket World Cup in 2023, where he was the highest wicket-taker of the tournament. 
As of now, Mohammed Shami has clinched a total of 195 wickets for the men in blue with an economy of 5.55.
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India and Pakistan's combined strongest probable 11 picked from their squads for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025

Sighting India vs Pakistan rivalries over ICC events, here is a combined playing 11 from the current squad of both the teams for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.