As anticipation builds for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) 2024-25, Australian pacer Scott Boland recently addressed an intriguing question regarding his on-field rivalry with Indian superstar Virat Kohli. In a conversation with cricket journalist Daniel Cherny, Boland was asked whether Kohli has become his “bunny” after dismissing him in the World Test Championship final.

Confidence in the home conditions

Boland began the chat by expressing confidence in Australia’s bowling attack, noting that playing in familiar home conditions gives them a strategic advantage. He praised his fellow bowlers, labeling them as some of the best in the world, and hinted that this collective strength could help Australia gain an upper hand over India in the upcoming series.

“I think we’ve got real class bowling attack, some of the best players in the world as they do but I think home conditions we can get a jump in,” said Boland in a video shared? by Daniel on X (for?merly Twitter).

The bunny question

The conversation took an interesting turn when Daniel brought up Boland’s dismissal of Kohli during the World Test Championship final. The journalist cheekily asked if Kohli could be considered his “bunny,” a term used in cricket to describe a batter who is frequently dismissed by the same bowler. Boland, with a laugh, quickly dismissed the notion, acknowledging that while it was a nice wicket to get, he wouldn’t go so far as to label Kohli his bunny.

“Kohli is obviously your bunny after getting him at the World Test Championship final?” asked Daniel.

“I wouldn’t say that (laughs),” replied Boland.

Also READ: Form?er India coach Ravi Shastri predicts the result of Border-Gavaskar Troph?y 2024-25

Looking ahead to the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25

Despite downplaying the idea of Kohli being his bunny, Boland expressed eagerness for another opportunity to bowl against the In??dian maestro. He hopes to challenge Kohli once again in the upcoming series, viewing the prospect as a chance to test his skills against one of the world’s best batters. As the cricketing world gears up for another intense chapter in the India-Australia rivalry, all eyes will be on this potential matchup, with fans and analys??ts alike eager to see if Boland can repeat his success against Kohli.

“Nice wicket to get but, hopefully I’ll get a chance to have a crack at him again,” added Boland.

“Hopefully I get the chance to have a crack at him again.�?/p>

Scott Boland eyeing another opportunity this summer against Virat Kohli after removing him in the WTC final last year. pic.twitter.com/lxLYCayuqp

— Daniel Cherny (@DanielCherny) August 20, 2024

A battle to watch

As the Border-Gavaskar Trophy approaches, the narrative around Boland and Kohli adds another layer of excitement to the series. Whether or not Kohli becomes Boland’s “bunny” in the series, their on-field encounters are sure to be a highlight of the BGT 2024-25, promising thrilling moments for cricket fans around the globe.

Also READ: Aussie icon Ricky Ponting predicts the scoreline of Border-Gavaskar?? Trophy 2024-25

For latest cricket news & updates, visit betvisa68.com.

South Africa secured a 40-run victory against West Indies in a fiercely contested second Test in Guyana, marking a 1-0 series win. The opening Test had ended in a rain-affected draw, making this win even more significant for the Proteas. With this result, South Africa climbed to the fifth spot in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) 2023-25 standings, while West In?dies remained anchored at the bottom.

WI vs SA: A gritty contest dominated by bowlers

The second Test saw an intense battle between the two sides. South Africa, batting first, were bundled out for 160, courtesy of a brilliant five-wicket haul by Shamar Joseph. In response, West Indies struggled to 144/10, with Jason Holder’s resilient 54* being the lone bright spot in their innings. In their second innings, South Africa posted a more competitive 246/10, thanks to crucial fifties from Aiden Markram and Kyle Verreynne. This set West Indies a challenging target of 263 runs. However, they could only manage 222/10, falling short by 40 runs. South Africa’s victory was sealed as their bowlers consistently applied pressure, ultimately securing a hard-fought win.

Impact on WTC 2023-25 standings

This victory was pivotal for South Africa in the context of?? the ICC World Test Championship. Entering the match, the Proteas were languishing in the seventh position on the WTC table. The win propelled them to the fifth spot, significantly boosting their chances in the ongoing WTC cycle. South Africa ??now has 28 points with a PCT (percentage of points) of 38.89%, having recorded two wins, three losses, and one draw from six matches. This rise in the standings reflects their potential to remain competitive in the WTC race.

On the other hand, the West Indies’ woes continued as they remain rooted to the ninth and last position in the WTC standings. With just 20 points and a PCT of 18.52%, the Caribbean side has had a dismal WTC campaign, recording only one win, two draws, and six losses. This performance underscores the significant rebuilding work needed for the West Indies to regain their former glory in Test cricket.

Also READ: Salman Butt identifies the top 3 fittest Pakistan players, leaves out B??abar Azam

Top of the Table: Leads the WTC standings with dominant performances

India continues to set the benchmark in the WTC standings, sitting comfortably at the top with a PCT of 68.51%. Their dominance has been evident, particularly in their comprehensive 4-1 home series victory against England earlier this year. India has won six out of their nine matches in the current WTC cycle, with onl??y two losses and one draw. This commanding performance has kept them ahead of their rivals, showcasing their strength across differe??nt conditions and against various oppositions.

Australia, another formidable force in Test cricket, retains the second spot in the WTC standings with a PCT of 62.50%. The Aussies have been consistent, securing eight wins, three losses, and a draw, maintaining their position as serious contenders for the WTC final. New Zealand, the inaugural WTC champions, are currentl??y in the third position with a PCT of 50%. The Blackcaps have been steady, winning three and losing t??hree matches, as they look to defend their title in the current cycle.

Sri Lanka and Pakistan in close pursuit of top spots

Sri Lanka have made significant strides in the WTC standings, currently occupying the fourth spot with a PCT of 50%. Their recent 2-0 series victory over Bangladesh earlier this year was crucial in elevating their position. The Lankans have registered two wins and two losses, showing their ability to compete effectively in the Test arena. This rise in the standings has pushed Pakistan down to the sixth position. Pakistan, with a PCT of 36.66%, has had a mixed campaign with two ?wins and three losses. Their inconsistency has cost them valuable points, but they remain within striking distance of the top four.

England and Bangladesh: Mid-table struggles

Bangladesh finds themselves in the eighth position on the WTC points table, with a PCT of 25%. Despite their struggles, including three losses and only one win, the team has shown flashes of potential. Nevertheless, they will need to find greater consistency to climb higher in the standings. England, who were riding high after a 3-0 home series win against the West Indies last month, have slipped to the seventh position. With a PCT of 36.54%, England ??has six wins, six losses, and one draw to their name. Their fluctuating form has seen them fall behind in the WTC race, and they will need to regroup to challenge for a top-four finish.

Understanding the World Test Championship points system

The ICC World Test Championship standings are determined by the percentage of points earned (PCT), which ensures that teams are ranked based on their performances relative to the matches they have played. Each win in the WTC earns a team 12 points, while a draw gives each side four points. In the rare event of a tie, teams are awarded six poin??ts each. While a loss results in no points, teams can also lose points due to slow over-rates, adding another layer of strategy and discipline to the competition. This system rewards consistent performance and ensures that every match and every point matters in the race to the WTC final.

Also READ: Usma?n Khawaja selects Steve Smith’s batting position for ??the BGT 2024-25 against India

For latest cricket news & updates, visit betvisa68.com.

In the latest ICC Men’s Test rankings, significant shakeups have occurred, marking a dynamic shift in the landscape of international cricket. Among the most notable changes is the rise of 25-year-old England batter Harry Brook, who has reached his career-best position.

Significant gain for Harry Brook  

In a remarkable ascent, England’s Brook has achieved a career-high by climbing to the third position in the ICC Men’s Test Batting Rankings. Brook’s latest feat comes on the heels of a stunning century in the recent Test match against the West Indies in the second Test at Trent Bridge. This outstanding performance has propelled him? from f??ourth to third place, with 771 points.

Brook is now in close pursuit of his compatriot and former England captain Joe Root, who maintains the second spot with 852 points. Root has also demonstrated his exceptional batting skills, scoring a magnificent century against?? the West Indies, keeping the competition fierce.

Kane Williamson maintains his top spot

New Zealand‘s Kane Williamson has continued to hold the number one position with 859 points. Meanwhile, Pakistan‘s Babar Azam has slipped from third to fourth place, and New Zealand’s Darryl Mitchell has dropped from fourth to fifth. Australia‘s Steve Smith, known for his impressive Test average of 56.97, has also seen a decline, moving from fifth to? sixth position.

Also READ: Will Eoin Morgan be the next coach of England? ??World-Cup winning captain shares his opinion

Virat Kohli remains in the top 10

India’s skipper, Rohit Sharma, has similarly experienced a fall, now occupying the seventh spot, down from sixth. Promising Indian batter Yashasvi Jaiswal is currently in the eighth position, while former Indian captain Virat Kohli has maintained his tenth position.

In the ICC Men’s Test Team Rankings, England are in third place. India are in second place, just behind Australia, who leads the rankings. Looking ahead, the cricketing world eagerly anticipates the ICC World Test Championship 2023-2025 (WTC) final, set to take place at Lord’s in June 2025. This much-anticipated event will feature the top two teams in the Test rankings, promising a thrilling contest for the coveted championship title.

Also RE?AD: Ashish Nehra spills beans on the chances of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma playing 2027 ODI World Cup

For latest cricket news & updates, visit betvisa68.com.

On Tuesday, New Zealand Cricket (NZC) announced the schedule of their much-anticipated series with England. The series will kick off on November ?28 this year and continue until December 18.

New Zealand and England are gearing up for a high-stakes battle, with the series taking place in Christchurch, Wellington, and Hamilton. As the World Test Championship looms, this series holds immense significance for both sides. The Blackcaps, currently ranked third on WTC standings, are eager to maintain their position, while England, at the bottom of the table, is determined to climb up.

New Zealand Cricket Chief expects big crowds in the home test matches

Scott Weenink, the CEO of NZC, said that he is confident about the upcoming series, and ??the early signs are pointing towards a passionate response from fans, potentially reaching the same level of electric atmosphere witnessed during the home Tests against Australia.

“In the past, there’s often been a lot of talk in New Zealand about the popularity of test cricket – without that translating into ticket sales or viewership numbers,” said Scott.

“The difference over the past summer, and in terms of the upcoming tests against England, is that the interest is being converted to bums on seats and is driving record viewership numbers,” the 51-year-old added.

Also READ: Pakist??an announces squad for New Z?ealand T20Is; Mohammad Amir and Imad Wasim recalled

The complete schedule of the New Zealand vs England series

• First Test: November 28 – December 2 at Hagley Oval in Christchurch
• Second Test: December 6 – December 10 at Cello Basin Reserve in Wellington
• Third Test: December 14 – December 18 at Seddon Park in Hamilton

Also READ: Virat Kohli’s form ignites debate- Strike Rate?? vs Experience ??for T20 World Cup 2024

For latest cricket news & updates, visit betvisa68.com.

The World Test Championship (WTC) final stands as a pinnacle event in the cricketing world, drawing anticipation and excitement from fans worldwide. It symbolizes the ultimate showdown between the top two teams in the championship, encapsulating the essence of Test cricket at its finest. However, a recurring question among cricket enthusiasts revolves around the consistent hosting of the WTC final in England only.

England’s reign as hosts of the WTC Final

The inaugural edition being held in Southampton in 2021 and the subsequent final between India and Australia took place at the Oval in London in 2023. Despite hosting it two times already, the upcoming summit clash in 2025 is also set to be held at the iconic Lord’s cricket ground in England, marking the third consecutive time England will host the decider of this red-ball format tournament.

Ravichandran Ashwin’s perspective

The consistent choice of England as the venue for the WTC final has raised eyebrows, prompting discussions within the cricketing community. Ravichandran Ashwin, the veteran off-spinner fr??om India, recently joined the ex??clusive 500-Test Wickets club and voiced his opinion on this matter.

Ashwin advocated for giving hosting rights to countries like India and Australia, which are prominent members of the ‘Big 3’ club in world cricket. He emphasized that India’s Narendra Modi Stadium could be the perfect venue for the summit clash, showcasing the grandeur of Test cricket in the country.

“The last two WTC finals happened in England. Should we change the venue? Why not Australia or India? We have the massive Narendra Modi Stadium waiting to host another great final. What do you think about that? Another person suggested playing on the home ground of the table toppers. That is also a decent thought. But the Australian weather in June is a little dull, so we don’t know about that,” Ashwin said.

Also READ: Ravichandran Ashwin reveals how Rohit Sharma helped him deal with family m?edical emergency during the 3rd Test

Ashwin’s confidence in Team India

Furthermore, Ashwin expressed confidence in India’s potential to qualify for the WTC final for the third time in a row and speculated that the final could once again feature Australia as the opponent.

“We still have two home series and an away series. Same with the Aussies. Looking at all of this, I feel yet another WTC showdown awaits us. Of course, we are at a transition, so our fingers are crossed,” the 37-year-old concluded.

WTC 2023-25 points chart

Presently, India leads the WTC 2023-25 points chart with a Points Percentage System (PCT) of 68.21, while Australia closely follows in second place with a PCT of 62.5%. Ashwin’s remarks shed light on the desire among players and fans alike to see the WTC final hosted in diverse cricketing nations, adding to the global appeal of Test cricket’s premier event.

Also READ: Team India’s Shubman Gill joins global singing star ?Ed Sh??eeran for a game of cricket

For latest cricket news & updates, visit betvisa68.com.

Australia, in a thrilling World Test Championship (WTC) match, defeated New Zealand by three wickets at Hagley Oval in Christchurch on Monday (March 11). Chasing the challenging target of 279 to clinch the series 2-0, Australia secured victory with an unbeaten 61-run partnership for the eighth wicket between Alex Carey (98) and Pat Cummins (32), alongside Mitchell Marsh, who contributed with a well-made 80.

WTC 2023-2025 points table shuffle: Australia at second spot

Following this three-wicket win against New Zealand, Australia replaced the hosts at the second position of the WTC points table. This marked Australia’s eighth win from 12 matches in the 2023-25 WTC cycle. Despite losing three matches and drawing one, they accumulated a total of 90 points. Australia’s Percentage of Points (PCT) grew from 58.09 to 62.50, pro?pelling them to th??e second spot.

India on top of the ladder

The defending champions, Australia, trail table-toppers, India, having a PCT of 68.51 after defeating England 4-1 at home. Wit??h six wins and a draw from nine matches, India have curren??tly accumulated 74 points.

Also READ: Cricket world erupts as India thrash England ??in Dharamsala T??est to clinch the series 4-1

India sustains leadership despite lower points tally than Australia

While Australia originally won 100 points, Australia lost 10 points due to slow over-rate offenses in the cycle, reducing their tally to 90 points, still the best among all teams. Meanwhile, India have stacked up six wins in nine matches with a draw and two defeats. The last cycle’s runners-up have 74 points but stand ahead of Australia in the standings due to their stronger PCT. According to the playing conditions set by the International Cricket Council (ICC) fo?r the WTC, PCT takes precedence o??ver the total points accumulated in a cycle.

WTC standings overview: England’s slide and New Zealand’s adjustment

England are at the 8th position following the loss against I??ndia with 17.5 percentage points. For New Zealand, the loss meant a drop in their PCT. At 50, they are now third on the table, just below their trans-Tasman rivals. They have played six matches in th??is WTC cycle so far, winning and losing three matches each.

Upcoming WTC final and conclusion of league stage

So far in the 2023-25 WTC cycle, Australia has played the most number of matches (12), while bottom-ranked Sri Lanka and fourth-placed Bangladesh have played the fewest (2). The league-stage matches of th??e WTC 2023-25 cycle will end in February 2025. The top two teams in the standings will play the final, scheduled to be held at the Lord’s Cricket Ground in London in June next year.

Also READ: Twitt??er reactions: Alex Carey, Pat Cummins and Mitchell Marsh lead Australia to a series whi?tewash over New Zealand

For latest cricket news & updates, visit betvisa68.com.

Australian captain Pat Cummins has confirmed an unchanged playing XI for the second Test against New Zealand, which be??gins on Friday at Hagley Oval in Christchurch.

This means the successful bowling attack of Cummins, Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood will continue their streak of seven consecutive Tests, contributing to Australia’s recent success in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC).

New Zealand to make changes:

While Australia remains steady, New Zealand will introduce at least one change to their lineup. Young fast bowler Will O’Rourke has been ruled out due to injury, paving the way for uncapped seamer Ben Sears to make his Test debut in Christchurch. Additionally, depending on the pitch conditions, spinner Mitchell Santner may replace fast bowler Scott Kuggeleijn.

The Christchurch Test will mark the 100th Test outing for two NZ stalwarts, Kane Williamson and Tim Southee. Despite scoring back to centuries against South Africa, Wil?liamson struggled for runs versus Australia. He departed for 0 and 9 in the Wellington Test.

Also READ: Veteran wicketkeeper? Dinesh Karthik to retire from IPL after the 2024 season

Australia retains trophy:

Australia’s dominant win in the first Test at the Basin Reserve secured their 13th consecutive Trans-Tasman Trophy victory. The Blackcaps haven’t tasted success against the Aussies on home soil since 1993.

Australia’s playing XI for the Christchurch Test:

Usman Khawaja, Steve Smith, Marnus Labuschagne, Cameron Green, Travis Head, Mitchell Marsh, Alex Carey (wk), Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins (c), Nathan Lyon, Josh Hazlewood

Also READ: England star Joe Root poin??ts out the difference between ?Ravichandran Ashwin and Nathan Lyon

For latest cricket news & updates, visit betvisa68.com.

Team India‘s triumph over England in the Ranchi Test has not only secured their series victory but also had significant implications on the World Test Championship (WTC) 2023-25 rankings. With India’s stellar performance, the standings have seen a reshuffle, setting the stage for an exciting journey towards the finals at Lord’s Cricket Ground in 2025.

India’s dominance in Ranchi

In a historic moment, Team India clinched a remarkable series win over England, marking English team’s first-ever series loss in the ‘Bazball’ era. Despite an initial setback in Hyderabad, India showcased their prowess, especially relying on young talents. The 3-1 lead in the series ahead of the final game in Dharamsala underscores India’s dominance and strategic decisions paying off.

Key players shine in crucial moments

During the crucial chase of 192 runs, India faced formidable challenges from the England spinners, but the resilient partnership between Shubman Gill and Dhruv Jurel steered them to victory. Gill’s unbeaten 52 and Jurel’s 39 not out were instrumental in sealing the series for India, highlighting the depth of talent in the squad.

Impact on WTC 2023-25 rankings

The outcome of the Ranchi Test has significantly influenced the latest WTC rankings. India solidified their second position with 62 points and a winning percentage of 64.58%, reaffirming their status as formidable contenders. Meanwhile, New Zealand maintains their lead atop the table, followed closely by Australia in third place.

Also READ: Twitter reactions – Dhruv Jurel and Shubman Gill’s fighting knock takes India home in Ranchi Test �?IND vs ENG 2024

Middle-order teams showcase potential

Bangladesh‘s ascent to the fourth spot underscores their growing prowess in Test cricket, while Pakistan and West Indies occupy the fifth and sixth positions, respectively. These teams ar??e striving to make their mark and climb higher in the rankings with upcoming matches.

Challenges for lower-ranked teams

South Africa, England, and Sri Lanka find themselves at the bottom h??alf of the standings, occupying the seventh, eighth, and ninth spots, respectively. With the competition heating up, these teams are gearing up to overcome chall?enges and improve their rankings in subsequent matches.

Anticipation builds for road to Lord’s

The WTC 2023-25 rankings not only determine teams’ standings but also pave the way for the ultimate showdown at Lord’s Cricket Ground in 2025. The top two teams in the rankings will earn the prestigious opportunity to compete in the final, adding to the excitement and anticipation among cricket enthusiasts worldwide.

Also READ: ‘Mai Baanke Bihari ke mandir mein�?#8217;: Dhruv Jurel’s father gets emotional while reminiscing son’s India debut; video goes viral

For latest cricket news & updates, visit betvisa68.com.