New Zealand young pace-bowler Will O’Rourke has been dealt a significant blow, ruling him out of the upcoming second Tegel Test against Australia in Christchurch from March 8. The injury occurred during day three of the first Test in Wellington, where scans later revealed a left-hamstring strain. O’Rourke will require a minimum of two weeks of rest and rehabilitation, impacting New Zealand’s pace attack for the crucial Test match.

Replacement for Will O’Rourke

To fill the void left by O’Rourke, Wellington Firebirds pace-bowler Ben Sears has been selected as the replacement in the 13-man squad. Sears, with 58 first-class wickets at an average of 27, will join the team in Christchurch on Tuesday. The decision to bring in Sears is seen as a like-for-like replacement, and his performance will be closely watched as Blackcaps will aim to maintain a formidable pace attack against Australia. Veteran Neil Wagner, who announced his retirement last week after?? being left out of the first Test, has been released from the squad.

“He hasn’t had sort of hamstring injury in the past. Disappointing for Will and disappointing for us because I thought he bowled fantastically well and for a guy that’s so young in his Test career it looks like the Australians were certainly respecting him in the way that they’re playing him. I thought his spell before he got injured was absolutely outstanding,” Head Coac?h Gary Stead was quoted as sayin?g by ESPNcricinfo.

“He’ll be a big loss for us. Ben Sears for us as the closest I guess like for like replacement that we thought we could find. We wanted someone with some genuine pace. Ben’s done that he’s had recent international success against Australia as well which was part of the decision-making and in going with him as the replacement for Will,” the 52-year-old concluded.

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Key batter sideline for eight-week

Adding to New Zealand’s woes, opener Devon Conway is also set to undergo surgery for a thumb injury sustained during the T20 series against Australia. The expected recovery time is eight weeks, ruling him out of action for a significant period. Conway’s absence is a notable setback for the side, impacting the team’s batting lineup and posing a challenge in the upcoming matches.

Australia’s dominant display: Nathan Lyon’s heroics and New Zealand’s quest for redemption

In the first Test, Australia showcased dominance as they thrashed New Zealand by 172 runs. The pitch conditions, conducive to spin, saw Nathan Lyon emerged as the man of the match for his remarkable 10-wicket haul. New Zealand, now chasing their first win over Australia since 2011, faces a formidable challenge. The team’s approach to the second Test will be crucial as they aim to rebound from the disappointing loss in Wellington.

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After a stellar 64-Test career, New Zealand‘s prolific fast bowler, Neil Wagner, formally announced his retirement form the internatoinal cricket leaving an indelible mark on the Blackcaps’ historic journey.

Crucial role in New Zealand’s Test triumph

Wagner played a pivotal role in propelling New Zealand to the zenith of Test cricket, contributing significantly to their climb to the No.1 position. His left-arm pace and tenacity became a cornerstone of the Blackcaps’ success.

Statistical brilliance: A legacy in numbers

At the age of 37, Wagner left as the fifth-highest wicket-taker in New Zealand Test history, boasting an impressive record of 260 wickets at an average of 27.57 and a stellar strike rate of 52.7. His lion-hearted performances and consistency made him an integral part of the Blackcaps’ formidable bowling attack. Speaking to ESPNcricinfo, he further reflected on his top 5 best moments, encapsulating the essence of his illustrious 12-year career.

Also READ: NZ vs AUS: Fans in de??spair as New Zealand pacer Neil Wagner bids farewel?l to the international cricket

Neil Wagner shares the top 5 moments that define his Test cricket career:

1. Auckland Test against India in 2014

In the Auckland Test against India in 2014, Wagner played a pivotal role in New Zealand’s historic victory by delivering a standout bowling performance. New Zealand, batting first, posted a competitive total of 503 runs, with Kane Williamson‘s century and Brendon McCullum‘s double ton being a highlight. However, it was Wagner’s prowess with the ball that significantly contributed to their dominance. In the first innings, Wagner exhibited his ability to break partnerships and create pressure by claiming a crucial 4-wicket haul, restricting India to 202 in response.

The match took a turn when New Zealand, despite their solid first-innings performance, faced a challenging situation in the second innings, getting bowled out for 105. With India set a target of 407 runs, Wagner’s role became even more critical. Known for his relentless approach, Wagner once again showcased his skill and determination by securing another impactful 4-wicket haul in India’s second innings. His ability to consistently take wickets at crucial junctures played a pivotal role in dismantling the Indian batting order.

As the match reached a decisive moment, Wagner’s heroics proved crucial in denying India a successful chase. Despite India’s valiant effort, they fell 40 runs short, succumbing to Wagner’s relentless bowling attack. Wagner’s match figures of 8 wickets for the Test match were a testament to his impact, and his contributions were instrumental in New Zealand’s triumph. This Test victory highlighted Wagner’s significance as one of the key bowlers for the Blackcaps, showcasing his lion-hearted approach and pivotal role in crucial moments.

2. New Zealand’s historic Test Series Win in the West Indies in 2014

In 2014, New Zealand secured a historic Test series victory against the West Indies, with Wagner playing a ?crucial role in the decisive third Test held in Barbados. The series kicked off with a commanding win for New Zealand in Jamaica, claiming a triumph by 186 runs. Nevertheless, the West Indies fought back strongly, securing a 10-wicket win in the second Test in Trinidad.

The pivotal moment came in the third Test, where Wagner, initially left out in the first two matches, made a significant impact. New Zealand posted 293 runs in their first innings, and despite the West Indies reaching 197/2, Wagner’s remarkable four-wicket spell triggered a collapse, restricting the hosts to 317. In the second innings, New Zealand declared at 331/7, setting a target of 307.

Wagner chipped in with a wicket as the West Indies fell short by 53 runs, securing New Zealand’s historic series win. This achievement marked the first time New Zealand had won a Test series on West Indian soil, and Wagner’s contributions in the decider played a crucial part in this landmark victory.

3. 2018 Christchurch Test against England

In the context of the 2018 Test series against England, Wagner’s batting heroics in the second Test at Christchurch played a crucial role in New Zealand’s efforts to secure a draw. After comfortably winning the first Test, England came back strongly in the second Test, setting a challenging target of 381 for New Zealand.

Facing the daunting target, New Zealand found themselves in a precarious situation in the second innings, needing to bat out time to avoid defeat. Wagner, known for his tenacity, emerged as a key figure during this critical phase of the match. Teaming up with Ish Sodhi (56 off 168 balls) and Tom Latham (83 off 207), Wagner’s contribution became instrumental in ensuring the safe escape of the home side.

Wagner’s innings, spanning 107 minutes and facing 103 balls, exemplified defensive resilience and patience. While his individual score of 7 runs might appear modest, the impact went beyond the numerical value. His determined defense frustrated the English bowlers, consumed valuable time, and played a pivotal role in securing the draw for New Zealand.

4. New Zealand’s WTC 2021 final victory over India

Wagner played a crucial role in New Zealand’s historic victory in the World Test Championship (WTC) 2021 final against India. In the much-anticipated clash at The Rose Bowl in Southampton, Wagner’s performance added significant value to the Kiwi bowling attack. In the first innings, Wagner bowled 15 overs and conceded 40 runs, showcasing his accuracy and control. His economical bowling played a part in building pressure on the Indian batters which resulted in the form of key wickets Shubman Gill and Ajinkya Rahane.

Nonetheless, it was in the second innings that Wagner truly left his mark. Bowling with determination and skill, he bowled with full passion and aggression that proved instrumental in restricting India’s total. He ended the second essay with the prized wickets of Ravindra Jadeja as Wagner’s ability to extract bounce and create difficulties for the batters, especially in the crucial moments of the game, played a pivotal role in New Zealand’s success. His disciplined bowling contributed to India being bowled out for 170 runs, setting up the opportunity for New Zealand to chase down the target with eight wickets in hand and secure the historic WTC title.

5. Basin Reserve Test against England

In a high-stakes Test match at Wellington’s Basin Reserve, Wagner’s exceptional bowling performance played a pivotal role in securing a thrilling 1-1 series draw for New Zealand against England. Chasing 258 for victory on the final day, England found themselves struggling at 80/5, facing a daunting task.

However, a resilient sixth-wicket partnership of 121 runs between Joe Root and Ben Stokes revived England’s hopes. Despite their efforts, Wagner’s relentless bowling made a significant impact for the hosts. He picked up key wickets, dismissing Ollie Pope, Root and Ben Stokes.

The seamer’s crucial contribution extended to claiming the vital final wicket of James Anderson, preventing the last man in for England from becoming an unlikely batting hero. The match concluded with New Zealand securing the win by the barest of margins, ensuring the series finished in an exciting 1-1 draw. Wagner’s skillful bowling under pressure cemented his role as a match-winner for the Blackcaps.

Also READ: IND vs ENG: Ben Stokes reveals the name of Indian?? player who has become the ‘man crush�?of his teamma?te Ben Foakes

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New Zealand‘s fast-bowling stalwart, Neil Wagner??, has decided to bring the curtains down on his illustrious international career, officially announcing his retirement from Test cricket.

Wagner’s departure marked the conclusion of a remarkable 64-Test journey with the Blackcaps. The left-arm pacer played a pivotal role in New Zealand’s Test squad, contributing significantly to their ascent to the No.1 position in Test cricket and their triumphant campaign in the World Test Championship (WTC).

Neil Wagner’s remarkable career statistics

At the age of 37, Wagner left behind a legacy that includes being the fifth-highest wicket-taker in the history of New Zealand Test cricket. His impressive record boasted 260 wickets at an average of 27.57, coupled with an outstanding strike rate of 52.7. Wagner’s lion-hearted performances made him a linchpin in the Blackcaps’ bowling attack, earning respect and admiration from cricket enthusiasts worldwide.

Emotional decision and departure from the New Zealand squad

The decision to retire came after an emotional conversation between Wagner and coach Gary Stead. It became apparent that Wagner was not part of New Zealand’s top XI for the upcoming Test series against Australia, prompting the veteran pacer to make the difficult choice. Despite being named in the squad, Wagner won’t feature in the starting XI for the first Test in Wellington and is set to be released before the second game in Christchurch.

“It’s been an emotional week. It’s not easy to step away from something you’ve given so much to and got so much out of, but it’s now time for others to step up and take this team forward. I’ve enjoyed every single moment of playing Test cricket for the Black Caps and am proud of everything we’ve been able to achieve as a team. The friendships and bonds built over my career are what I’ll cherish the most and I want to thank everyone who’s played a part in where I am today,” Wagner was quoted as saying by ESPNcricinfo.

Also READ: Daryl Mitchell recalled as New Zealand Cricket announces formidable 14-member squad for Austra??lia Tests

Legacy of a champion

As Wagner bids farewell, the cricketing fans acknowledges his incredible contributions to New Zealand cricket. Over his 12-year Test career, Wagner exhibited resilience, determination, and a never-say-die attitude. His departure left a void in the Blackcaps’ bowling arsenal, and the cricketing world will fondly remember him as one of the most dedicated and impactful bowlers, with his indomitable spirit leaving an indelible mark on the history of New Zealand Test cricket

Here’s how Twitter reacted:

Neil Wagner! Indomitable spirit. The first time I saw him was in the Champions League in some? 2009-10 for Otago. He bustled into the crease and had an impressive attitude. Trademark pacer from SA. Oh! Those memories of him removing Smith with short?? deliveries in 19-20.

— Bharath Ramaraj (@Fancricket12) February 27, 2024

Neil Wagne??r’s retirement news hurts more and mo??re every passing minute.

To even think we’ll never have someone pour his entire soul into the ga??me for?? us�?this news is definitely bigger than the reactions so far.

For me, it is earth shattering.

— Sritama (@cricketpun_duh) February 27, 2024

There will never be another Neil Wagner. The Ultimate Warrior of New Zealand cricket. And only apt that his last act as an international cricketer was trying to bounce out NZ Prime Minister Chris Luxon in his own backyard #NZvAus

— Bharat Sundaresan (@beastieboy07) February 27, 2024

Neil Wagner has a?nnounced his retirement from Test c?ricket.

Wagner was a captain's dream. Would run in tirelessly all day no matter how flat the conditions were.

Finishes with 260 Test wickets at 27.57 and 821 First Class wickets at 27.16. A fine career.👏#NZvAUS

— CricBlog �?(@cric_blog) February 27, 2024

Filmed a feature on Neil Wagne??r a few years back where I played some of his wicket celebrations back to him.

It was like a??n out-of-body exp?erience for him. He was almost mortified at himself.

One of the kindest athletes you’d hope to mee?t. But if a wicket’s at stake�?oh boy.

— Randall Munro (@randallmunro) February 27, 2024

Have seen only few left arm bowlers able to effortlessly nail the difficult art of bowling bouncers from around the wick??et to left handers, the angl??e looks very weird but Neil Wagner used to do it with no fuss. One of the finest in whites, will be missed for long time.

— Gaurav (@brightkknight) February 27, 2024

#NeilWagner called time on his illustrious 64-Test career for the #BLACKCAPS and will bow out following the Tegel Test series against Au??stralia, starting in Wellington on Thursday.

Wagner will not be in the starting XI for the first Test at the Cello Basin Reserve and will be�?/p>

— Rajesh Khilare (@Cricrajeshpk) February 27, 2024

Neil Wagner has played 205 first-class games which is a tally? NZ players may find ha?rd to match in the future, even with county stints. Of current players Williamson (166) is next. Taylor 192, Watling 178 of other recent players.

— Francis Payne (@FPayne100) February 27, 2024

Neil Wagner – one of NZ's greatest bowlers, and without question, a great of the Test match game…
260 wickets at 27/53
Part of one of Test cricket's most formidable attacks.
World Champion
Founder member of NZ's greatest Test team yet.

— cricketingview (@cricketingview) February 27, 2024

What heartbreaking news to wake up to. We won't see Neil Wagner running in whites ever again

— Prithvi (@Prithvi10_) February 27, 2024

//twitter.com/subhash92/status/176231836552?6569469

Whole-hearted, talented and a key part of NZ cricket’s golden age�?I know I’ll miss Neil?? Wagner.

The kind of player you love?? to have on your side and probably hate to come up against.

Thanks for the memories Wags. #thankswags @BLACKCAPS

— Ed Jackson (@edjacko) February 27, 2024

My teammates have always meant the world to me and all I’ve ever wanted to do was what was best for the team – I hope that’s the legacy I will leave, says Neil Wagner as he retires#CricketTwitter #AusvNZ

— Anuj Mishra (@anujmishra003) February 27, 2024

Whenever Neil ?Wagner stepped over that white li??ne with a silver fern on his chest, I have to admit, I loved him with my whole heart.

— This place is a cesspit (@JamieBellNZ) February 27, 2024

Neil Wagner has always been one of my favourites. His passion, determination and dedication to test cricket and NZ had me glued to my screen. One of the best, in my opinion.?? Thank you, Wag??s. End of an era.

— Lily Franklin (@lilyffranklin13) February 27, 2024

That ??fact Neil Wagner played from 2012 until 2024 and only played 64 Tests is a true cri?me!

Meanwhile here’s the Top 5 players and Tests played�?br />A. Cook – 135
J. Anderson – 127
S. Broad – 123
J. Root – 108
V. Kohli – 105

Imagine his record if we got to play more Tests�?pic.twitter.com/rQWugryWYc

— The ACC (@TheACCnz) February 27, 2024

In his early days in the Black Caps, I thought Neil Wagner was going to be a reliable, hard-working third seamer. I never imagined he’d become a world-class strike bowler. But for two or three years he was our best test bowler and one of the top test wicket?-takers in the world!

— Daniel Jackson (@danielneljack) February 27, 2024

If there's one bowler I would never, ever want to face – it would be Neil Wagner. Miss me with repetitive bouncers and the angriest face in test cricket.
Such a pleasure having him do his thing for New Zealand, and constantly coming up trumps with his bowling.
Legend!

— Stephen Gallagher (@SWTGallagher) February 27, 2024

Neil Wagner has retired from inte??rnational cricket, ?effective immediately

The man ??that bowled with passion and pac?e, and wore his heart on his sleeve

☹️#cricket pic.twitter.com/Cxhk4etvwA

— ThePoppingCrease (@PoppingCreaseSA) February 27, 2024

Also READ: Cricket Australia announces strong 14-man squad for New Zealand Tes?t series; Michael Neser returns

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The anticipation is building to a crescendo as New Zealand Cricket (NZC) reveals a powerhouse 14-member squad set to take on the reigning world champions, Australia, in a th??rilling two-game Test series starting on February 29 in Wellington.

Return of Daryl Mitchell

In a positive turn of events, New Zealand’s dynamic all-rounder, Daryl Mitchell, makes a welcomed return to the Test set-up after missing the second game against South Africa, where the Blackcaps emerged victorious, claiming the series 2-0. Notably, Mitchell will sit out the T20 international series against Australia preced??ing the Test leg, pro??viding crucial time for his foot to heal.

Scott Kuggeleijn back in red-ball action

Adding to the excitement, Scott Kuggeleijn also makes a return to the red-ball side after nearly a year, stepping in to replace the injured Kyle Jamieson.

Tim Southee and Kane Williamson set to mark 100th Test appearance

The upcoming series holds special significance for the New Zealand team, as skipper Tim Southee and batting maestro Kane Williamson are poised to mark their 100th Test appearance during the s?econd match. Their leadership and experience will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in guiding the team through this challenging encounter.

Also READ: New Ze?aland Cricket announces 14-member squad for T20I series against Australia; Trent B?oult returns

Will O’Rourke retains spot after South Africa heroics

Young bowling sensation Will O’Rourke has rightfully retained his place in the squad following an impressive performance against South Africa. His burgeoning talent adds a dynamic element to the bowling attack, showcasing New Zealand’s commitment to nurturing and integrating emerging players.

Selector Sam Wells’ optimism on Mitchell’s return

Selector Sam Wells, discussing Mitchell’s return during the squad announcement, expressed optimism and detailed the careful rehabilitation process that the all-rounder has undergone.

“Everything is tracking well with Daryl. The decision to give him a period of rehabilitation was necessary and will allow him to be at his best for what is an important series for the team. Daryl will keep focusing on his rehabilitation over the next week and will be fit and ready for the first test in Wellington,” selector Sam Wells said.

New Zealand’s squad for Test series against Australia

Tim Southee (c), Tom Blundell (wk), Devon Conway, Matt Henry, Scott Kuggeleijn, Tom Latham, Daryl Mitchell, Will O’Rourke, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Mitchell Santner, Neil Wagner, Kane Williamson, Will Young.

Also READ: Cricket??? Australia announces strong 14-man squad for New Zealand Test series; Michael Neser returns

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In a significant development for Bangladesh cricket, a new captain has been appointed for the upcoming two-match Test series against New Zealand at home.

Injury woes for Shakib Al Hasan

The decision follows an injury to seasoned all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan, who sustained damage to his left index finger while batting against Sri Lanka in the ODI World Cup 2023. Unfortunately, the injury sidelined Shakib, ruling him out of the crucial last league game against Australia in? Pune. The 36-year-old is currently in the rehabilitation phase, with an estimated recovery time o?f three to four weeks.

Litton Das’s personal commitments and appointment of new captain for Bangladesh

Adding to the leadership challenges, previous reports indicated that Litton Das, the vice-captain of the Test team, would miss the New Zealand series due to family commitments. Consequently, the responsibility of captaining Bangladesh in the Test series now falls on the shoulders of Najmul Hossain Shanto.

“Litton has been granted leave for one month, he is not available for the two Tests. He wants to spend time with his new-born baby. We had requested him to play at least the second Test match but he insisted on [being away for] the whole series. That’s why we granted him leave. As a result, Najmul Hossain Shanto will captain the side in these two Tests,” Jalal Yunus, chairman of the BCB’s cricket operations committee, was quoted as saying by ESPNcricinfo.

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Challenges and opportunities for Najmal Hossain Shanto

Despite Shanto’s experience in 23 Test matches, boasting an average of 29.83 and four centuries, this marks his first leadership role in the format. He has, however, captained Bangladesh in three ODIs, including two crucial matchups at the quadrennial event when Shakib was absent due to injury.

Bangladesh’s Test series schedule against New Zealand

As Bangladesh prepares for the Test series, Shanto’s leadership skills will be put to the test, steering the team through the challenges posed by the absence of key players. The first Test is scheduled to be held in Dhaka starting from November 28, with the second Test taking place in Dunedin from December 6.

Neil Wagner replaces Matt Henry in the New Zealand squad

Ahead of the Test series against Bangladesh, New Zealand Cricket (NZC) have also made a significant change in their squad. In response to the unfortunate injury to pacer Matt Henry, NZC has named the seasoned left-arm bowler Neil Wagner as his replacement. Henry sustained a right hamstring injury during the ongoing CWC 2023, and subsequent scans have ??indicated that he will not recover in time for the Bangladesh Test series.

National Selector Sam Wells expressed satisfaction with the addition of Wagner to the Black Caps squad, highlighting the veteran’s wealth of experience.

“It’ll be great to have Neil’s skill and experience on the tour of Bangladesh. His record speaks for itself, and we all know what a great competitor he is. He’s played plenty of cricket in the sub-continent, and I know he’s really excited by the challenge ahead,” Wells was quoted as saying by stuff.co.nz.

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Several South Africa-born cricket??ers have represented other countries in international cricket due to various reasons, including opportunities, personal circumstances, or eligibility criteria.

Here are details about ten South Africa-born men’s cricketers who have played for other countries:

10 cricketers who were born in South Africa but play for other countries

1. Jason Roy (England):

• Born: July 21, 1990, in Durban, South Africa.
• Reason for Leaving South Africa: Jason Roy‘s family emigrated to England when he was 10 years old. Growing up in England, he honed his cricketing skills and progressed through the county system. He eventually became eligible to represent the England national team as an explosive opening batter. Known for his aggressive style, Roy played a crucial role in England’s 2019 Cricket World Cup victory.

2. Neil Wagner (New Zealand):

• Born: March 13, 1986, in Pretoria, South Africa.
• Reason for Leaving South Africa: Neil Wagner sought cricketing opportunities abroad and decided to move to New Zealand. After residing in New Zealand, he met the eligibility criteria to represent the New Zealand cricket team. Wagner is renowned for his left-arm pace and ability to extract bounce from pitches.

3. Devon Conway (New Zealand):

• Born: July 8, 1991, in Johannesburg, South Africa.
• Reason for Leaving South Africa: Devon Conway relocated to New Zealand and intended to settle there. Following a residency period, he became eligible to represent the New Zealand national team. Conway is a stylish left-handed bat and wicketkeeper, known for his consistency.

4. Andrew Strauss (England):

• Born: March 2, 1977, in Johannesburg, South Africa
• Reason for Leaving South Africa: Andrew Strauss‘s family moved to England when he was a child. Strauss went on to become a respected opening batter and captain of the England cricket team. He had a successful international career and played a key role in England’s Ashes victories.

5. Michael Neser (Australia):

• Born: March 29, 1990, in Pretoria, South Africa.
• Reason for Leaving South Africa: Michael Neser pursued opportunities in Australia cricket, joining Queensland in domestic cricket. His performances in Australia led to him becoming eligible to represent the Australian national team. Neser is a pace-bowling all-rounder known for his ability with both bat and ball.

6. Marnus Labuschagne (Australia):

• Born: June 22, 1994, in Klerksdorp, South Africa.
• Reason for Leaving South Africa: Marnus Labuschagne‘s family relocated to Australia when he was a child. He developed his cricketing skills in Australia and established himself as a key player in the Australian cricket team. Labuschagne is known for his solid batting technique and leg-spin bowling.

7. Grant Elliott (New Zealand):

• Born: March 21, 1979, in Johannesburg, South Africa.
• Reason for Leaving South Africa: Grant Elliott moved to New Zealand, where he met the residency requirements to play for the New Zealand national team. He made a significant impact in New Zealand cricket, most notably with his match-winning performance in the 2015 Cricket World Cup semifinal against South Africa.

8. Keaton Jennings (England):

• Born: June 19, 1992, in Johannesburg, South Africa.
• Reason for Leaving South Africa: Keaton Jennings relocated to England for educational reasons. He later qualified to play for the England cricket team, making his debut as an opening batsman. Jennings is recognized for his sound technique and ability to handle the new ball.

9. Craig Kieswetter (England):

• Born: November 28, 1987, in Johannesburg, South Africa.
• Reason for Leaving South Africa: Craig Kieswetter moved to England to pursue a career in professional cricket. After meeting the residency requirements, he played as a wicketkeeper-batter for the England cricket team. Kieswetter was part of England’s ICC World Twenty20-winning squad in 2010.

10. Robin Smith (England):

• Born: September 13, 1963, in Durban, South Africa.
• Reason for leaving South Africa: Robin Smith, known as “The Judge,” was a successful English cricketer with a South African background. He was a key member of the England cricket team in the 1990s. He had British parents so he qualified to play for England.

Also READ: World Cu?p 2023: Pakistan legend Wasim Akram?? unveils the best white-ball middle-order batter

Here are the two South African-born cricketers who represent associate nations

1. Ryan ten Doeschate (Netherlands):

• Born: June 30, 1980, in Port Elizabeth, South Africa.
• Reason for Representing Netherlands: Ryan ten Doeschate’s family relocated to the Netherlands when he was a teenager. He subsequently qualified to play for the Dutch national team. Ten Doeschate is one of the most celebrated Dutch cricketers, known for his all-round abilities and valuable contributions in limited-overs cricket.

2. Michael Rippon (Netherlands):

• Born: Sep 14, 1991, in Cape Town, South Africa.
• Reason for Representing Netherlands: Michael Rippon moved to New Zealand to pursue cricket opportunities and played for Otago. After residing in New Zealand, he met the eligibility criteria to represent the Dutch national team. Rippon is a left-arm spinner known for his ability to turn the ball.

These cricketers have emb?raced opportunities in associate nations, largely due to family relocations or personal cricketing journeys, and have become inte?gral parts of their respective national teams.

Also READ: ODI World Cup 2023 – Meet the wives and girlfriends of South African cricketers

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New Zealand trumped India by eight wickets? to cl??inch the World Test Championship (WTC) title on Wednesday at Southampton.

Kane Williamson & Co. ?turned the tides of a game in their favour which earlier looked to end in a draw after the rain had played a spoilsport on the first and fourth day.

As the contest went into the reserve day, the Kiwis spun a web around the Indian batters to barrage the??ir plans of putting up a respectable total.

One such intricately designed trick was when Indian all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja was trying to hold on to the faltering line-up. New Zealand pacer Neil Wagner bowled a slurry of bouncers ?from round the wick?et, making it difficult for Jadeja to duck and leave.

Jadeja then became cautious about not giving a catch to the fielders and losing his wicket. Taking cognizance of the same, Wagner bowled a delivery that angled across Jadeja while the latter, being prepared for a bouncer, edged it to give an easy catch to wicketkeeper BJ Watling.

However, fans were disappointed when the Saurashtra-cricketer was sent back to the pavilion as replays showed that Wagner’s back foot was outside the return crease.

?Netizens immediately took to Twitter and started a debate around the rule and wanted it t?o be deemed an illegitimate ball.

The decision was absolute since Wagner’s foot had landed inside the crease before he dragged it across the line.

The Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) Law 21.5.1 states that the point at?? which the back foot lands will be taken into account for deeming it a no-ball or a fair one.

“21.5.1 the bowler’s back foot must land within and not touching the return crease appertaining to his/her stated mode of delivery,” the Law states.

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On Day 2 of the inaugural ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final, the soft protection of Cheteshwar Pujara’s helmet flew off as he tried to counter a vicious bouncer from Neil Wagner.

The Kiwi pacer soon went up to Pujara to check on him as Team India’s physio also rushed out in the middle.

Pujara played 35 dot balls before opening his account with a boundary, but his third wicket partnership with India skipper Virat Kohli did not last long.

In the 41st over, Trent Boult trapped Pujara right infront of the wickets and the latter had to depart after scoring ?just 8 runs off 54 deliveries.

India were reeling at 88/3 in the post-l?unch session of the final Test.

Here’s the video:

//twitter.com/pant_fc/status/1406239185879506952

Earlier, Rohit Sharma (34) and Shubman Gill (28) gave their side a decent start as Kohli’s men were 62 without loss in 20 overs. Rohit, however, fell prey to Kylie Jamieson in the 21st over while Gill followed him four overs later, edging one from Wagner to wicketkeeper BJ Watling.

The first day of the summit clash was called off due to rain on Friday. India didn’t change their playing XI, accommodating two spinners in the form of Ravindra Jadeja and Ravichandran Ashwin.

New Zealand, on the other hand, decided to play with four sea??mers and one-??fast bowling all-rounder.

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Senior England bowler James Anderson is slowly and gradually closing the gap with legendary Indian bowler Anil Kumble ??to become the third-highest wicket-taker in Test cricket.

On Day 3 of the -ongoing second Test?? against New Zealand at Edgbaston, Anderson picked up?? his 617th scalp in red-ball cricket and is only two wickets away from equaling Kumble’s ??tally of 619 scalps.

It all happened in the 106th over of New Zealand’s first innings when Anderson came round the wicket and dismissed tailender Neil Wagner to register his fir?st scalp of the day. The 38-year-old bowled a bit fuller delivery which shaped back into the left-handed batter, passing? the inside edge and hitting the top of the off-stump.

Here is the video:

Oh Jimmy Jimmy! 🐐

Scorecard/Videos: //t.co/BbquQqdQYF#ENGvNZ pic.twitter.com/MOz2bZ1hZG

— England Cricket (@englandcricket) June 12, 2021

Ross Taylor shines as New Zealand take 83 runs lead

Resuming the day on 229/3, the visitors went past England’s ??total of 303 and set the lead of 83 runs after being bundled out for 388 in the 120th ove?r.

Veteran batter Ross Taylor, who was unbeaten at 46 on Day 2, played a remarkable knock. Taylor went on to score 80 runs from 139 deliveries, including 11 boundaries. Apart from the 37-year-old Tom Blundell, Henry Nicholls and tailenders made a valuable contribution to the side’s total. While Blundell made 34 off 77, Nicholls scored 21 ??from 56 balls.

When it comes to tailenders, Ajaz Patel smashed 20 off 33 while Matt Henry and Trent Boult scored 12 runs each.

Stuart Broad was the most successful bowler for the hosts, picking up a 4-wicket haul for 48 runs in 23.1 overs. The pace duo of Mark Wood and Olly Stone also performed well, taking wickets at crucial times. Wood took two wickets while conceding 85 runs from 25 overs, whereas Stone also bagged a couple for 92 runs in 24 overs. Anderson and Dan Lawrence picked up one wicket apiece.

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