Cricket

The upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 between Australia and India is highly anticipated, with Hall of Famer Ricky Ponting comparing the rivalry to the iconic Ashes series. Ponting believes these battles are among the most eagerly awaited in world cricket.The first Test of the series will commence at Perth's Optus Stadium on November 22. Ponting has emphasized the importance of maintaining a competitive yet fair spirit throughout the series. He anticipates intense matches played on the edge, with both teams refusing to concede an inch."Australia-England, with the history of the Ashes, but Australia-India is not far behind that and it's built up over a long period," Ponting said. "I think we all look forward to these sorts of battles. As a past player, as a commentator, I want to see these two teams go out there and play hard and fair and then see who is left standing at the end of the next five games."Ponting highlighted the significance of the rivalry, stating that it is now one of the biggest in world sport, not just cricket. He expects the matches to be played with a competitive edge, with both teams determined to emerge victorious.The series will feature a day-night Test in Adelaide from December 6 to 10, followed by Tests in Brisbane, Melbourne, and Sydney. The squads for the first Test have been announced, with Rohit Sharma leading India and Pat Cummins captaining Australia.Ponting's comments underscore the intense rivalry between Australia and India, which has produced some of the most memorable moments in cricket history. The upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy promises to continue this tradition of thrilling and competitive matches.

The Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) between India and Australia has emerged as a formidable rivalry in the cricketing world, rivaling the legendary Ashes series between Australia and England. While the Ashes boasts a rich history dating back to 1882, the BGT, established in 1996, has quickly gained prominence as one of the most fiercely contested and closely followed encounters in the sport.Historical Perspective: BGT vs Ashes (Since 1996)Since the inception of the BGT, India has emerged as a dominant force, winning 10 of the 16 series played. Australia has secured five victories, while one series ended in a draw. Notably, India has achieved two historic away series wins in Australia (2018-19, 2020-21) and is aiming for a third consecutive triumph on foreign soil.In contrast, the Ashes has been dominated by Australia, who have won eight of the 15 series played since 1996. England has secured five victories, and two series have ended in draws. Australia's traditional dominance in the Ashes remains evident.Match Statistics: BGT vs AshesThe Ashes has a significant advantage in terms of matches played due to its long history. However, the BGT has witnessed a remarkable 56 Tests since 1996, with India winning 24 matches and Australia claiming 20 victories. India's recent dominance reflects their evolution as a formidable force in Test cricket.Recent Trends: The Last Five SeriesIn the last decade, India has established a clear dominance in the BGT, winning four consecutive series (2016-17, 2018-19, 2020-21, 2022-23). Australia's last series win came in 2014-15 on home soil.The Ashes have been more evenly contested in recent years. Australia has won two of the last five series (2017-18, 2021-22), while two ended in draws (2019, 2023). Australia has retained the urn due to their dominance in home conditions.Dominance in Away SeriesAway victories are a testament to a team's strength and resilience. India's two away series wins in Australia (2018-19, 2020-21) are significant achievements. Australia, on the other hand, has won only one away series in India, in 2004-05.In the Ashes, Australia has not won a series in England since 2001. England has also struggled in Australia, with their last win there coming in 2010-11. Australia's hold over the Ashes urn has been strengthened by their dominance in home conditions.BGT's Rising StatureWhile the Ashes remains iconic due to its deep-rooted history, the BGT has risen to prominence as one of the most fiercely contested rivalries in world cricket. India's dominance in the BGT, especially with back-to-back series wins in Australia, has led some to argue that the BGT now rivals or even surpasses the Ashes in terms of competitiveness and importance.For Australia, the upcoming BGT series presents a chance to reclaim the trophy at home, while for India, the series is a crucial step towards securing a spot in the World Test Championship final.

Ben Duckett's career took a dramatic turn in 2017-18 when he was sent home from the Ashes tour after an incident involving James Anderson. Now, seven years later, Duckett has revealed the full story behind the incident, shedding light on the events that led to his suspension.Duckett, then a promising young batsman, was part of the Lions tour at the time. The incident occurred at Perth's Avenue Bar, where England players were under intense scrutiny for their off-field behavior. Anderson, a senior member of the team, allegedly threw a drink on Duckett, who then retaliated by pouring a drink on Anderson's head.The incident was witnessed by an ECB security guard, who reported it to the management. Head coach Trevor Bayliss was furious, calling it "unacceptable" in the current climate. Anderson downplayed the incident in his Telegraph column, but the ECB took a hard stance, imposing a fine and suspension on Duckett.Duckett feared his England career was over. He was isolated in Australia, unable to train or play. The time difference and lack of support from home made it a difficult time for the 22-year-old. However, the incident also forced him to grow up quickly and develop resilience.Duckett's subsequent emergence as an England regular has allowed him to put a positive spin on that period of his career. He has become a mainstay across all three formats, with over 1980 Test runs since returning to the side in 2022. He is also set to play a vital role in the rejuvenation of England's limited overs set-up.While Duckett acknowledges that his actions were not ideal, he believes the experience made him a stronger and more determined player. He is grateful for the support he received from his teammates during that difficult time and is now focused on making the most of his opportunity to represent England.

Northamptonshire County Cricket Club has appointed former Australian coach Darren Lehmann as their new head coach on a two-year contract. Lehmann, 54, will take over from John Sadler, who departed in September after the team's Vitality Blast quarter-final defeat.Lehmann, a highly experienced coach, has a proven track record of success. He guided Australia to victory in the 2013-14 Ashes series and led Brisbane Heat to the Big Bash League title in 2012-13. He also served as assistant coach for Brisbane Heat's recent BBL triumph.Lehmann's appointment is a significant coup for Northamptonshire, who finished fourth in Division Two of the County Championship last season. The club is eager to return to Division One and challenge for major honors.Lehmann's coaching philosophy emphasizes player development and creating a positive team environment. He believes in fostering a culture of hard work, dedication, and accountability."Northamptonshire has a great history in our game, and I am looking forward to meeting the players and learning about the club and its past," Lehmann said. "The selling point for me is a group that wants to get better and follow their and the club's dreams, create memories, and play at the highest level possible."Lehmann's arrival is expected to boost Northamptonshire's chances of success. His experience and expertise will be invaluable as the team looks to improve its performances and achieve its goals.

Cricket Australia has announced the schedule for the 2025-26 Ashes series in Australia, with significant changes to the traditional rotation. The Gabba will host the second Test as a day-night match, while Adelaide will host the third Test as a day game.The series will commence with the first Test in Perth from November 21-25, followed by the day-night Test in Brisbane from December 4-8. Adelaide will host the third Test from December 17-21, with the traditional Boxing Day Test taking place at the MCG from December 26. Sydney will host the fifth and final Test from January 4-8.The shift of the day-night Test from Adelaide to Brisbane is a notable departure from the previous rotation. Adelaide has been the home of the day-night Test since its inception in 2015, hosting the second Test in the 2017-18 and 2021-22 Ashes series. However, South Australia's government and Cricket Australia were keen to give Adelaide a marquee holiday slot, recognizing its popularity as a tourist destination.The Gabba has previously hosted three day-night Tests, including the West Indies' famous victory in January 2023. However, it will be the first time Brisbane has not hosted the Ashes opener since 1982-83. The future of the Gabba as a Test venue remains uncertain due to redevelopment plans for the stadium ahead of the 2032 Olympics.There has been some criticism of Cricket Australia's decision to move the Ashes opener away from the Gabba, with former Australia all-rounder Shane Watson among those who believe it should remain the traditional starting point of the summer. However, the Australian team is reportedly content with playing the opening Test in Perth, where they have an unblemished record.The use of the pink ball at the Gabba has also raised concerns, as Australia's bowlers have previously expressed reservations about its suitability for the pitch. The ball has been known to soften quickly at the Gabba, leading to periods of stagnation in play.Despite these concerns, the 2025-26 Ashes series promises to be a highly anticipated event, with both Australia and England looking to claim the coveted urn.

England's hopes of an Ashes-style comeback in the ODI series against Australia received a boost with their victory at Chester-le-Street. After losing the first two matches, Harry Brook's team secured a crucial win, setting the stage for a potential turnaround.Brook, the stand-in skipper, led the charge with a maiden ODI century, guiding England to a comfortable chase of 305. His 156-run partnership with Will Jacks showcased their ability to adapt to the format's demands.Despite missing key players like Travis Head and Adam Zampa, Australia remained competitive. Steven Smith's half-century and Aaron Hardie's late cameo highlighted the depth of their squad. However, the end of their 14-game winning streak will not be a major concern.Will Jacks and Alex Carey emerged as key performers for their respective teams. Jacks' 84 from 82 balls was his best international performance to date, while Carey's consistent batting and assured presence behind the stumps have created a "good problem" for Australia.England are expected to field an unchanged team for the third ODI at Lord's, with Jofra Archer set to play back-to-back games. Australia, on the other hand, have a clean bill of health, including Zampa, who was absent in Durham.The pitch at Lord's is not known for its high-scoring nature, but recent rain could make it seamer-friendly. The weather forecast, however, remains a concern, with showers predicted for the morning and early afternoon.Statistically, Mitchell Starc overtook Mitchell Johnson as Australia's fourth-highest ODI wicket-taker, while Brook's century was only his second in the format. Australia have a strong record at Lord's, winning six of their last seven ODIs against England at the ground.

Shane Warne, the legendary Australian leg-spinner, was more than just a cricketer; he was an artist who transformed the cricket field into his canvas. His journey to becoming the most feared and respected spin bowler of all time began in a Melbourne suburb, where a young Warne first discovered his unique talent for making the cricket ball dance.In the early 1990s, fast bowlers dominated the cricket world, and spin was considered a dying art. However, Warne was about to change that perception. With his distinctive blond hair and an air of confidence, he made his Test debut for Australia in 1992. While his initial performances were unremarkable, Warne was just getting started.The turning point came in the 1993 Ashes series against England. At Old Trafford, Warne bowled a delivery that would become known as the "Ball of the Century." It was his first ball in an Ashes Test, and it pitched outside the leg stump. England's Mike Gatting watched it carefully, expecting it to turn slightly. But the ball spun fiercely, defying all expectations, and clipped the top of the off stump. Gatting was left in disbelief, and so was the cricketing world. Warne had announced his arrival in spectacular fashion.From that moment, the legend of the "King of Spin" began to grow. Warne possessed an uncanny ability to outthink batsmen. He could spin the ball prodigiously on any surface, making it drift, dip, and turn in ways that left even the best players baffled. His mastery of the leg break, the googly, and the flipper turned him into a weapon in the Australian arsenal.Warne didn't just rely on his skill; he played mind games with batsmen, setting them up over a series of deliveries before delivering the knockout punch. His showmanship added to his aura—he was a performer who thrived on the big stage, relishing the tension of the moment.By the end of his career, Warne had taken over 700 Test wickets, a record for a spin bowler. But it wasn't just the numbers that made him the King of Spin; it was the magic he brought to the game. Shane Warne redefined spin bowling, making it an art form that captivated millions and solidifying his place as cricket's greatest spinner.

The Ashes: A Century-Old Rivalry Between England and AustraliaThe Ashes, a fiercely contested cricket series between England and Australia, has captivated fans worldwide for over a century. The rivalry, marked by intense competition and iconic moments, has become a cultural phenomenon.The origin of the term "Ashes" dates back to 1882, when England suffered its first home defeat against Australia at The Oval in London. In a mock obituary published in Sporting Times, journalist Reginald Shirley Brooks declared the death of English cricket and suggested that its "ashes" be taken to Australia.A few weeks later, England embarked on a tour of Australia. After a friendly match near Melbourne on Christmas Eve 1882, English captain Ivo Bligh received a small terracotta urn as a symbol of the "Ashes" he had vowed to reclaim.The Ashes series has witnessed numerous memorable moments. In the 1932/33 "Bodyline" series, England employed a controversial tactic of bowling fast deliveries at Australian batters' bodies. The aggressive approach, led by Harold Larwood, sparked outrage and led to a bitter rivalry.In 1981, Ian Botham's all-round brilliance inspired England to victory, earning the series the moniker "Botham's Ashes." Shane Warne's "ball of the century" in 1993 remains one of the most iconic moments in Ashes history.Arguably the greatest Ashes series was played in 2005. England, led by Andrew Flintoff and Kevin Pietersen, defeated a star-studded Australian team. The series was marked by Steve Harmison's bouncer that left Ricky Ponting bloodied.The last Ashes series, held in England in 2023, ended in a 2-2 draw. Australia has held the Ashes since 2018, but England will aim to reclaim the urn when they tour Australia in 2025-26.The Ashes series transcends cricket. It is a cultural event that captures the attention of fans worldwide. The fierce competition, historic significance, and iconic moments have made it one of the most captivating rivalries in sports.

Australia and England will commemorate the 150th anniversary of Test cricket with a special one-off match at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) in March 2027. This historic fixture will mirror the Centenary Test of 1977, which Australia won by 45 runs, replicating the margin of victory in the inaugural Test in 1877.The confirmation of the anniversary Test is part of a seven-year staging agreement between Cricket Australia (CA) and state governments, ensuring that the MCG, Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG), and Adelaide Oval will continue to host their regular Tests. The annual Boxing Day (Melbourne) and New Year's Tests (Sydney) have been locked in until 2030-31, while Adelaide has secured a pre-Christmas slot for its Test.Despite the current Future Tours Programme (FTP) extending only to early 2027, England and India have already confirmed tours in the subsequent four years. Optus Stadium in Perth will host the opening Test of the season for the next three seasons, while the Gabba in Brisbane will host the Ashes opener next year. However, the Gabba's future beyond 2024 is uncertain due to redevelopment plans for the 2032 Olympics.Adelaide Oval has established itself as the home of day-night Test cricket, having hosted seven of the 12 such matches in Australia. However, the new agreement does not guarantee that all future Tests there will be pink-ball encounters. The 2025-26 Ashes Test in Adelaide will be a red-ball game, with Brisbane hosting the day-nighter. Adelaide Oval will also host a New Year's Eve Big Bash League (BBL) game for the next seven years.England will tour for a five-match Ashes series in 2025-26, while New Zealand will visit in 2026-27. The latter series has been extended to four Tests from the original three on the FTP and will be played in Perth, Adelaide, Melbourne, and Sydney. Australia is scheduled to tour India for five Tests in January and February 2027.The additional anniversary Test could potentially squeeze the calendar in March 2027, as Australia is also due to host Bangladesh in two World Test Championship matches. While rival states attempted to lure the marquee Christmas and New Year Tests away from Melbourne and Sydney, it was always an unlikely outcome.Beyond 2026-27, other venues may have an opportunity to compete for a Test if the Gabba remains unavailable, potentially bringing Hobart and Canberra into the mix. Tasmania has ambitions to host indoor Test cricket at their proposed new multipurpose stadium, although it will not be available until at least 2028.The staging agreements confirmed on Sunday are one of the final major projects completed by outgoing CA CEO Nick Hockley, who announced his resignation earlier this month. A future schedule for women's internationals will be confirmed in the coming months when the next FTP is complete, but Adelaide has been guaranteed an ODI or T20I every season.