England’s Test cricket captain, Ben Stokes, has been sidelined from all forms of cricket for at least three months following a tear in his left hamstring, a setback confirmed by the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB). The injury occurred during the third Test a?gainst New Zealand earlier this month, which England ultimately lost by 423 runs, despite clinching the series 2-1.

The injury and immediate impact

Notably, the 33-year-old was forced to leave the field on Day 3 of the match after delivering a bouncer that was pulled for four by Rachin Ravindra. This incident marked the second time this year Stokes has suffered from a torn left hamstring, having previously been injured during The Hundred in August. The ECB confirmed that Stokes would undergo surgery in January, ruling him out of England’s white-ball tour of India and the Champions Trophy in early 2025.

Also ?READ: Joe Root returns as England announces ODI squad for Champions? Trophy 2025 and India tour

Ben Stokes reacts with defiance to 3-month cricket hiatus due to injury

Meanwhile, ?Stokes responded to his injury-induced hiatus with resilience and determination, emphasizing his readiness to overcome the challenge. In a passionate statement, he expressed his unwavering commitment to his team and the game, likening himself to a phoenix—a symbol of rebirth an??d strength.

The Christchurch-born cricketer conveyed his?? intent to return stronger, fueled by his enduring dedication and fig??hting spirit, concluding with a fiery declaration that underscores his defiant attitude and eagerness to make an impactful comeback.

“Something else to overcome…go on then!!!!!!!! I’ve got so much more left in this tank and so much more blood sweat and tears to go through for my team and this shirt. There’s a reason I have a Phoenix permanently inked on my body,” he wrote, signaling his intent not just to recover but to return?? stronger.

Something else to overcome…go on then!!!!!!!!

I’ve got so much more left in this tank and so much more blood sweat and tears to go through for my team and this shirt.
There’s a reason I have a Phoenix permanently inked on my?? body

See you on the field to fuck some shit up

— Ben Stokes (@benstokes38) December 23, 2024

Also READ: England Test captain Ben ??Stokes blasts ICC over WTC points deduction after Christchurch Test

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England‘s plans for the ODI series against Australia took a significant hit with the confirmation that Jos Buttler, their regular captain and talismanic wicketkeeper-batsman, has been ruled out due to a lingering right calf injury. The 34-year-old missed the T20I series as well as The Hundred following the injury, which he picked up ea?rlier in the season. Despite hopes that he would be fit in time for the five-match 50-over series starting from September 19, Buttler’s recovery has not progressed as expected, and the team will have to proceed without their seasoned leader.

New captain in place of Jos Buttler for the Australia ODIs

In a bold move, England have handed the captaincy reins to 25-year-old Harry Brook. While Brook’s rise in international cricket has been meteoric, he is relatively new to the ODI format, having debuted just 18 months ago. His performances in Tests and T20Is have drawn widespread acclaim, but his ODI stats (an average of 29.07 in 15 innings) suggest that this format remains a work in progress for the young star. Nevertheless, Brook is no stranger to leadership. Earlier this summer, he captained Northern Superchargers in The Hundred, a tournament known for its high-pressure environment. This opportunity to lead England in an ODI seri??es against a strong Australian side represents a massive step in Brook’s career, both as a player ??and a captain.

Also READ: PCB chief reveals venues for the Test series between Pakis??tan and England

England’s evolving ODI squad: Injury concerns and changes

Buttler’s absence isn’t the only blow for England, as left-arm seamer Josh Hull has also been ruled out of the squad due to a quad injury. His exclusion leaves a gap in England’s pace attack, though no direct replacement has been called up in his stead. Additionally, Gus Atkinson, who was initially named in the ODI squad, had to be withdrawn after suffering an injury during the third Test against Sri Lanka. He has been replaced by fast bowler Olly Stone, adding another layer of complexity to England’s squad selection. Stone, a capable pacer, brings added depth to the pace department, but his inclusion comes with its own risks as he has dealt with injury concerns in the past.

On a brighter note, all-rounder Liam Livingstone has been included in the ODI squad following his impressive outings in the T20I series against Australia. His explosive batting and versatility with the ball were crucial in England’s victory during the second T20 at Cardiff. Livingstone’s inclusion will provide England with much-needed balance, especially with the absence of experienced players like Buttler and Hull.

England’s leadership dynamics and challenges

With Brook at the helm and interim coach Marcus Trescothick overseeing the squad, England are set to navigate the series with a fresh leadership dynamic. While Brendon McCullum still remain focused on red-ball cricket for the time being before taking over the white-ball too, Trescothick’s experience will be invaluable in guiding Brook through his first stint as captain. Brook will also lean on Phil Salt, who led England in the T20I series, for additional support. The dual absence of Buttler and Hull, combined with the earlier change? of Atkinson being replaced by Stone, creates a testing scenario for England. However, this series offers a chance for younger players to step up and make a mark in the lead-up to future international campaigns.

England’s updated ODI squad against Australia

Harry Brook (c), Jofra Archer, Jacob Bethell, Brydon Ca?rse, Jordan Cox, Ben Duckett, Will Jacks, Liam Livingstone, Matthew Potts, Adil Rashid, Phil Salt, Jamie Smith, Olly Stone, Reece Topley, John Turner.

Also READ: England announ?ces 17-member Test squad for Pakistan tour; Ben Stokes returns

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In a strategic move, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has decided to rest fast bowler Gus Atkinson for the upcoming ODI series against Australia. This decision is part of England’s ongoing efforts to manage the workload of their key players, particularly with Atkinson’s recent impressive perform??ances i??n Test cricket.

Gus Atkinson: A vital cog in England’s bowling attack

Atkinson has been a standout performer for England since his debut in Test cricket. His impactful displays, especially during the home series against the West Indies, have solidified his place as a crucial member of the squad. Atkinson’s memorable debut featured a remarkable ten-wicket haul, showcasing his ability to dismantle even the most formidable batting line-ups. His brilliance continued in the series against Sri Lanka, where his fiery spells played a significant role in England’s 2-1 series victory. Atkinson picked up 12 wickets at an average of 27.41 and also contributed with the bat, scoring a century from t??he No. 8 position in the second Test at Lord’s.

Replacement and squad adjustment

Given Atkinson’s importance to the Test side, the ECB has opted to manage his workload by resting him for the ODI series against Australia. Replacing Atkinson in the squad is Olly Stone, a 30-year-old Nottinghamshire seamer. Stone has represented England in eight ODIs, taking eight wickets, and recently made his Test comeback, featuring in the series against Sri Lanka where he claimed seven wickets across two matches. Stone’s inclusion provides England with a seasoned option in the fast-bowling department as they prepare to take on Australia in a five-match ODI series. His previous experienc??e, particularly in challenging overseas conditions, will be valuable as England looks to maintain their competitive edge.

Also READ: England names n?ew captain for Australia T20Is, announces Jos Buttler’s back up for the ODIs

England’s preparation and defeat

The ODI series between England and Australia kicks off at Trent Bridge on September 19, with the final match scheduled for September 29 in Bristol. Before the ODI series, the two teams will compete in a three-match T20I series, setting the stage for an exciting and competitive cricketing contest. In another development, England’s recent home Test series against Sri Lanka ended with a bittersweet victory. While they secured a 2-1 series win, Sri Lanka handed them a heavy eight-wicket defeat in the final Test at Kennington Oval. Chasing a target of 219, Sri Lanka reached the finish line in just 40.3 overs, thanks to a masterful century by Pathum Nissanka.

England’s updated squad for the ODI series against Australia:

Jos Buttler (c), Jofra Archer, Jacob Bethell, Harry Brook, Brydon Carse, Ben Duckett, J?osh Hull, Will Jacks, Matthew Potts, Adil Rashid, Phil Salt, Jamie Smith, Reece Topley, John Turner and Olly Stone.

Also READ: Luke Wright shares insight on Jonny Bairstow’s omission from England’s white-ball squad for Australi?a series

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In a groundbreaking development that promises to reshape the landscape of English county cricket, the Delhi Capitals, a prominent Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise, have agreed to a £120 million deal to acquire Hampshire County Cricket Club. This landmark agreement marks the first time an?? overseas entity will own an English county side.

A new era for Hampshire County Cricket Club

According to a ‘Daily Telegraph�report, the deal, brokered by the GMR Group, which holds a 50% stake in the Delhi Capitals, will see the Indian conglomerate take full ownership of Hampshire. Additionally, GMR will secure a 51% stake in The Hundred franchise, Southern Brave, with an option to increase this hold??ing to 100% in the future.

Hampshire, a historic county with a rich cricketing heritage, will now operate under the ownership of an Indian-based group. The deal is subject to ratification by the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB), but it is expected to be approved given the board’s stated openness to foreign investment in the English game.

Financial boost for Hampshire

The £120 million deal represents a significant financial injection for Hampshire, which has been grappling with debts of around £60 million. The influx of capital will provide a much-needed boost to the club’s infrastructure and playing resources.

Potential Benefits for Hampshire and English Cricket

The partnership between Delhi Capitals and Hampshire could prove mutually beneficial. The Indian franchise brings substantial financial resources and a global fan base, which could help to grow Hampshire’s profile and commercial opportunities.

On the cricketing front, there is potential for player exchange programs and coaching collaborations between the two clubs. Delhi Capitals’ access to a pool of young Indian talent could also benefit Hampshire’s player development pathway.

Moreover, the deal could help to strengthen the ties between Indian and English cricket, two of the world’s leading cricketing nations.

Also READ: IPL franc??hises seek action against truant?? foreign players �Reports

Implications for English County Cricket

The Delhi Capitals’ acquisition of Hampshire is a significant departure from the traditional model of English county cricket ownership. It raises questions about the future of county cricket and the potential for further foreign investment in the game.

??Some observers ha?ve expressed concerns about the impact of overseas ownership on the character and identity of county cricket. However, others argue that the influx of new capital can help to revitalize the domestic game and ensure its long-term sustainability.

England and Wales Cricket Board’s stance

The ECB has been proactive in seeking foreign investment in English c??ricket, recognizing the potential benefits for the game. The board is expected to scrutinize the?? Delhi Capitals deal carefully to ensure that it aligns with its strategic objectives for the county game.

Wider Implications for Cricket

The deal highlights the growing influence of IPL franchises on the global cricket landscape. In recent years, IPL teams have invested in various cricket leagues around the world, demonstrating their ambition to become global sporting brand??s.

The acquisition of Hampshire by Delhi Capitals is a further step in th??is process and could set a precedent for other IPL franchises to follow suit??. As the deal progresses through the approval process, the cricketing world will be watching with keen interest to see how this historic partnership unfolds.

Also READ: IPL Auction 2025: BCCI mulls special retention rule for?? uncapped players

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Richard Gould, Chief Executive of the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB), has shared insights about the upcoming Champions Trophy 2025. The International Cricket Council (ICC) awarded Pakistan the hosting rights for this prestigious tournament, scheduled for February-March next year. However, uncertainty looms over India‘s participation due to longstanding political tensions between the two countries, which have prevented India from visiting Pakistan for over 15 years.

Pakistan’s hosting milestone and India’s potential absence

The upcoming Champions Trophy will mark Pakistan’s first major multi-nation cricket tournament since the Asia Cup 2008. While Pakistan hosted the Asia Cup 2023, India’s matches were relocated to Sri Lanka due to security concerns. Consequently, only four matches of th??e tournament took place in Pakistan, with the remaining nine, including the final, held in Sri Lanka.

India, recently crowned T20 World Cup champions, has not toured Pakistan since 2008. It remains unlikely that the Men in Blue will travel to Pakistan for the Champions Trophy. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is expected to propose a hybrid model, where the Indian team might play their matches in Sri Lanka or the United Arab Emirates (UAE) instead.

Also READ: Will India visit Pakistan ?for the Champions Trophy 2025? BCCI responds

England and Wales Cricket Board’s ultimate stance

Now in an interview with BBC Test Match Special during the tea break on Day 1 of the third Test between England and the West Indies  Gould confirmed the ECB’s commitment to supporting the Champions Trophy’s successful hosting in Pakistan, despite concerns about India’s participation. Gould emphasized the strong determination of both the ECB and the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) to ensure the tournament proceeds as planned.

“There’s a great deal of determination to make sure it [Champions Trophy] is [hosted in Pakistan next year]. Particularly from the PCB and the ECB,” Gould was quoted as saying by the Wisden.

Potential tournament details and Pakistan’s legacy

The Champions Trophy is set to commence on February 19 in Karachi, with the final slated for March 9 at Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore. India are placed in Group A alongside Pakistan, Bangladesh and New Zealand. The highly anticipated India-Pakistan match is scheduled for March 1 at Gaddafi Stadium, where all of India’s games will be held. Pakistan will the tournament as the defending champions, having clinched the title in 2017 by defeating India by 180 runs. The Men in Green will aim to replicate their success on home soil, adding to the tournament’s historical significance.

Also READ: Pakistan Cricket Board chief issues a firm warning to ICC over Champions Troph?y 2025 hosting rights

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In a groundbreaking move, Zimbabwe will become the first team in modern cricket to receive a ‘touring fee’ from the hosts in bilateral cricket. This historic event will take place during their one-off Test match against England in the summe??r of 2025. This development marks a significant shift in how touring teams are compensated, addressing the financial disparities in international cricket.

ECB Chief Executive Richard Gould confirms the development

England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) chief executive Richard Gould confirmed this landmark decision on Sky Sports. Gould discussed the need for a collective effort by all full member nations to eliminate revenue disparity and ensure that players and fans exper?ience quality Test cricket. He ?emphasized the responsibility of major cricketing nations to maintain the competitiveness of Test matches.

Reason behind ECB’s move

Gould explained the reasoning behind the ECB’s decision to provide a touring fee to Zimbabwe. He pointed out the outdated nature of the current revenue-sharing model in bilateral cricket.

“Normally, the touring team gets itself into the country and then is looked after in terms of accommodation, but there is no fee for that team. Next year when we play against Zimbabwe, there will be a fee for that team that’s touring,” Gould stated.

This move is ??part of ??broader efforts to ensure that smaller cricketing nations can continue to participate in and host Test matches without facing financial hardships.

Also READ: IRE vs ZIM: Zimbabwe wicketkeeper Clive Madande breaks a 90-year-old unwanted record i?n Test cricket

Challenges facing Test cricket

The longest format of the sport has seen a decline in popularity outside the traditional cricket heartlands, mainly due to the global rise of lucrative Twenty20 leagues. Smaller cricketing nations, in particular, struggle to meet the growing financial costs associated with Test cricket. The high costs of touring and hosting Test matches, combined with diminishing broadcasting revenues, have cast doubts on the future of Test cricket. Earlier this year, Cricket West Indies (CWI) CEO highlighted these challenges, describing the ICC’s revenue-sharing model as broken following the West Indies’ two-match Test series against Australia.

This innovative move by the ECB aims to address these financial challenges and support the sustainability of Test cricket, ensuring that even smaller nations can continue to participate in the sport’s longest and most prestigious format.

Also WATCH: IRE vs ??ZIM �Barry McCarthy removes Dion Myers with an absolute peach on?? Day 1 of the One-off Test

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The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) is considering including IPL franchise-owned teams in its domestic competition, The Hundred. The 100-ball competition is one of England’s most beloved white-ball tournaments, featuring participation from eight teams.

The flagship event typically takes place in the July-August period each year, featuring both Men’s and Women’s categories. The 2024 season is set to commence on July 23rd with the inaugural match between Oval Invincibles and Birmingham Phoenix.

ECB engages in discussions with IPL owners for investment in The Hundred

According to The Times of India, the ECB seeks to convince IPL owners to invest in the Hundred. The governing body of English cricket has offered private investors a compelling 49 per cent stake in all teams, while the host franchise would retain the remaining 51 per cent. The ECB’s strategic vision aims to raise the Hundred’s profile on the global T20 circuit while also generating funds for its domestic cricket initiatives.

Mr. Richard Gould, the ECB’s chief executive, clarified that the board would not relinquish control of the tournament to investors, although teams can sell their shares fully or partially.

“Control comes at different levels, it comes at team level and it comes at competition level — that’s not something we are ceding control of,” Gould said.

Also READ: Younis Khan reca??lls P?akistan team’s harrowing experience following the death of former coach Bob Woolmer

Global presence of IPL franchise-owned teams

Several IPL franchises have ventured into multiple global T20 leagues. Teams like Punjab Kings, Rajasthan Royals, Mumbai Indians, Sunrisers Hyderabad, Chennai Super Kings, and Kolkata Knight Riders have established a presence in numerous prestigious tournaments (MLC, CPL, SA20). While the Royals and Punjab franchise have also invested in the Caribbean Premier League (CPL).

Also READ: The Hundr?ed (Men’s) 2024: Complete Schedule �Dates, Venues and Match Time

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Ex-Australia Test skipper Tim Paine has vehemently rebuked England Test captain Ben Stokes for his assertions in the Ashes 2023 documentary. Paine issued a stark reminder to the Eng?land squad, calling them a subpar ??Test side and emphasizing their need to confront that fact.

Ben Stokes’ address in the documentary

In the documentary released by the ECB, Stokes asserted that his Test team would be eternally remembered by those lucky enough to witness their play. The ECB shared a segment of Stokes’ address delivered in the locker room before the 5th Test match at Old Trafford, Manchester.

“Everything we’ve done up until now isn’t going to stop because we haven’t managed to win the urn back. The reward for our work isn’t what we get, but what we become. And what we have managed to do is, we’ve managed to become a sports team that will live forever in the memory of people who were lucky enough to witness us play cricket,” Stokes told his teammates in the dressing room.

Tim Paine slams Stokes’ remarks

Paine found Stokes’ remarks to be peculiar and out of touch, especially given that the series concluded in a 2-2 draw, allowing Australia to retain the urn. He noted that under Stokes’ and coach Brendon McCullum‘s guidance, England’s Test team is currently ranked ninth in the ongoing World Test Championship (WTC) cycl??e and missed qualifying for the final? in the previous WTC edition.

“I think it was taken slightly out of context because he was talking in a changing room and it was a bigger speech, so I will say that. However, it’s just this continued belief that they’re completely changing the game and they’re doing this amazing stuff and everyone’s going to remember it but they’re not,” Paine told on SEN Tassie Breakfast.

Also READ: Ben Stokes hits back at Australian media over ‘lucky to witness??�comment

Paine’s harsh assessment of England

Paine further criticized the English side, highlighting their poor performance in the ongoing WTC, where they are ranked last. He argued that the team’s belief in their own uniqueness and lasting impact is unfounded, as their achievements are not remarkable or memorable. Paine bluntly stated that, in reality, England are an ordinary or even below-average team, urging them to acknowledge and accept their current status rather than overestimating their influence in the cricket world.

“You’re coming dead last in the World Test Championship. You’re not going to be a team that everyone remembers watching and you’re not doing anything outrageously good that we haven’t seen before. You’re an average cricket team. (Actually) you’re at the moment, a below-average cricket team and I think they need to get their head around that a little bit,” Paine added.

Also READ: ENG vs WI: England ??unv?eils their playing XI for James Anderson’s farewell Test

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In a surprising turn of events, England’s cricket star Harry Brook has returned home due to personal reasons, casting a shadow over the upcoming five-match Test series against India. The player’s unexpected departure has left fans and cricket enthusiasts speculating about the reasons behind this sudden move.

Harry Brook to miss the entire Test series against India

The England team had been gearing up for a crucial Test series against the formidable Indian side, with both teams eyeing victory i??n what promised to be a highly competitive showdown. However, the absence of middle-order batter Brook ??will undoubtedly be a setback for the Three Lions as they strive to maintain a strong performance on Indian soil.

“The Brook family respectfully requests privacy during this time. In light of this, the ECB and the family kindly request the media and the public to respect their wish for privacy and refrain from intruding on their private space,” stated the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) in a press release.

“The England selectors will confirm a replacement player for the tour in due course,” the ECB statement added.

Brook’s absence is expected to create a void in the team, as they now face the challenge of reshuffling their lineup and strategies ahead of the five World Test Championship (WTC) matches. The team man??agement is likely to reevaluate their game plan and make necessary adjustments to fill the gap left by the departed star.

Also READ: Sara Tendulkar spotted hanging out with Shubman Gill’s sister Shahneel Gill amidst dating rumours; video goes viral

The op?ening match of the India-England series is scheduled to kick off on January 25 in Hyderabad.

Harry Brook’s Test journey so far

Brook marked his entry into Test cricket in 2022 against South Africa, and his most recent appearance in England’s white jersey occurred at The Oval in July 2023 against Australia.

The 24-year-old cricketer has so far playe??d 12 Tests, amassing a total of 1181 runs at an impressive average of 61, including four ton and seven half-centuries.

During the 2023 Ashes series on home soil, the Yorkshire-born put up a commendable performan?ce, scorin??g 363 runs in five Tests at an average of 40.33, with his highest score being 85.

Also READ: Michael Atherton p?rovides his verdict on the potential winner of India-England Test series

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