Cricket

Sir Ronnie Flanagan, the esteemed former Home Office chief inspector of constabulary for England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, has announced his retirement as the independent chair of the International Cricket Council's (ICC) Anti-Corruption Unit (ACU) at the end of October. Flanagan's departure follows the recent retirement announcement of ACU head Alex Marshall.Flanagan's appointment in 2010 marked a significant chapter in the ACU's history. He succeeded Lord Paul Condon, who had established the unit in 2000 to combat the growing threat of match-fixing. Under Condon's leadership, the ACU imposed life bans on three international captains: Mohammad Azharuddin, Saleem Malik, and Hansie Cronje.As Flanagan approached the end of his tenure, he echoed Condon's concerns about the potential risks posed by T20 cricket, particularly domestic franchise leagues. In 2013, the Indian Premier League (IPL) was rocked by a corruption scandal, prompting Flanagan to urge cricket boards to strengthen anti-corruption laws to deter corrupt practices in domestic T20 leagues.Flanagan's retirement comes at a time when the ICC is actively seeking a replacement. The organization aims to present its recommendation for the next ACU chair during its quarterly round of meetings in October.

Liam Livingstone's stellar performances against Australia have propelled him to the pinnacle of the ICC T20I all-rounder rankings. The English star has dethroned Marcus Stoinis, ascending seven places to claim the No. 1 spot.Livingstone's rise is attributed to his impressive all-round display in the two-match T20I series against Australia. He amassed 124 runs, including a match-winning 87 off 47 balls in Cardiff, and claimed five wickets.The series witnessed Livingstone's elevation to the No. 4 batting position, a role he relished. "I want that responsibility. I want to try to win games of cricket for England, and the higher up the order, the more chance you have of doing that," he stated.Livingstone's bowling also proved crucial, forming a formidable spin partnership with Adil Rashid. Their combined efforts helped England restrict Australia's explosive starts.In addition to his T20I success, Livingstone has earned a recall to the ODI squad for the upcoming series against Australia, replacing the injured Jos Buttler.Meanwhile, Travis Head has solidified his position as the No. 1 T20I batsman, scoring 90 runs off 37 balls in the series. Adam Zampa's rise in the bowling rankings has resulted in the top six spots being occupied by spinners.Livingstone's ascent to the top of the all-rounder rankings is a testament to his versatility and match-winning abilities. His performances have not only earned him individual accolades but have also contributed to England's success in the shortest format of the game.

ICC Delegation to Inspect Pakistan for Champions Trophy PreparationsA five-member delegation from the International Cricket Council (ICC) will arrive in Karachi on September 17, 2024, for an inspection visit ahead of next year's Champions Trophy in Pakistan. The delegation includes top officials from the ICC's Events and Security Departments, as well as the General Manager Cricket and Production Manager.The ICC delegation's primary objective is to discuss the tentative schedule for the tournament, which was prepared and submitted by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) several months ago. A key aspect of the schedule is the allocation of matches to Lahore, where the Indian team is expected to play all their games.The delegation will also address the possibility of the Indian government not allowing the Indian team to travel to Pakistan. In such a scenario, alternative arrangements will need to be considered.During their visit, the delegation will inspect ongoing construction work in Karachi and review team hotel arrangements. They will also travel to Islamabad and Lahore for similar inspections.The ICC Security Manager will hold briefings with Pakistani security officials to assess the security measures in place for the tournament.The ICC's decision on the final schedule and tournament arrangements will be announced in due course.

Pakistan is eagerly preparing to host the prestigious ICC Champions Trophy from February 19 to March 9, 2023. In anticipation of this global cricketing event, a five-member delegation from the International Cricket Council (ICC) will arrive in Karachi on Tuesday night for a four-day assessment of Pakistan's readiness.The ICC team, comprising experts in event management, security, cricket operations, and production, will meticulously inspect the three designated venues: Karachi's National Stadium, Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, and Lahore's Gaddafi Stadium. They will scrutinize stadium facilities, practice areas, and hotels earmarked for players and officials, ensuring they meet the high standards expected of such a major tournament.This visit follows previous trips by key ICC figures, including Security Manager David Mucker, Head of Events Chris Tetley, and Pitch Consultant Andy Atkinson, who have already familiarized themselves with the Pakistani venues. However, the current delegation reflects some recent changes within the ICC, showcasing a refreshed team taking the reins.The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has expressed confidence in the timely completion of renovations at the designated stadiums. However, local media reports have hinted at potential delays in the upgrade projects. "The redevelopment of the stadia in Karachi and Lahore is progressing rapidly and the PCB is confident that the construction companies will meet their targets on time," said a PCB spokesperson. "These upgrades are not just a necessity but a critical step in elevating our venues to meet the expectations of the modern game."The Champions Trophy, scheduled from February 19 to March 9, carries a budget of $65 million, as approved by the ICC. The PCB has already submitted a draft schedule for the eight-team tournament, but its finalization hinges on a significant factor: India's participation. Should India choose not to travel to Pakistan, the ICC and PCB may need to consider a hybrid model, potentially hosting some matches at neutral venues, mirroring the approach taken for last year's Asia Cup.This ICC visit, therefore, carries immense weight, serving as a critical evaluation of Pakistan's preparedness to host a successful and memorable Champions Trophy. The world will be watching as Pakistan aims to showcase its passion for cricket and its ability to deliver a world-class event.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has taken a groundbreaking step towards gender equality in sports by announcing that the ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2024 will offer equal prize money to both men and women. This historic decision, made at the ICC Annual Conference in July 2023, marks a significant milestone in the fight for equal pay in major sporting events.The tournament, scheduled to be held in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), will award the winners a staggering $2.34 million, a 134% increase from the $1 million won by Australia in 2023. The runners-up will receive $1.17 million, also a 134% rise from the $500,000 awarded last year.This prize money equality initiative aligns with the ICC's strategic goal of prioritizing the women's game and fostering its growth by 2032. Teams will now earn equal prize money for similar finishing positions in corresponding events and for match wins.Each group stage win will earn teams $31,154. The six teams not reaching the semi-finals will share a pool of $1.35 million based on their finishing positions. Third and fourth-placed teams in each group will receive $270,000, while the fifth-placed teams will get $135,000. All participating teams are guaranteed a minimum of $112,500.This prize increase is in line with the ICC Women's Cricket World Cup 2022 prize fund of $3.5 million. The ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2024 will commence on October 3 with a match between Bangladesh and Scotland at Sharjah Cricket Stadium.The ICC's decision to offer equal prize money in the Women's T20 World Cup is a testament to the growing recognition of the importance of women's sports. It is a significant step towards breaking down gender barriers and creating a more equitable playing field for all athletes.

David Richardson, a former South African cricketer, left an indelible mark on the sport both on and off the field. His international debut in 1992 marked South Africa's return to cricket after apartheid-induced isolation.As a wicketkeeper, Richardson's agility and reliable hands earned him 152 dismissals in 42 Tests and 165 dismissals in 122 ODIs. His contributions were instrumental in South Africa's resurgence in international cricket.Beyond his cricketing prowess, Richardson pursued a law degree, demonstrating his commitment to education. This legal expertise would later serve him well in his administrative roles.Post-retirement, Richardson transitioned into cricket administration. As the ICC's first General Manager of Cricket in 2002, he played a pivotal role in shaping the game's governance and regulations.In 2012, Richardson was appointed CEO of the ICC, succeeding Haroon Lorgat. In this capacity, he oversaw the sport's global development and growth. His dedication and contributions to cricket administration earned him widespread recognition.Richardson's legacy extends beyond his playing and administrative achievements. He is remembered as a skilled wicketkeeper, a dedicated student, and a visionary administrator who helped shape the modern game of cricket.

India's Hesitation to Tour Pakistan for ICC Champions Trophy Raises ConcernsFormer Pakistan captain Moin Khan has expressed concerns over India's reluctance to travel to Pakistan for the ICC Champions Trophy in 2025. Khan urged the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) to take a firm stance if India continues to refuse, reflecting the growing frustration within the cricket community over the lack of bilateral matches between the two countries.Khan emphasized the importance of Indian cricket legends intervening to persuade the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to separate sports from politics. He stated, "Former India cricketers like Sachin Tendulkar, Sourav Ganguly, Kapil Dev, Rahul Dravid, etc., should tell their cricket board to keep politics away from cricket. Cricket should not be obstructed by political issues. The fans would love to see India and Pakistan play. It will not only benefit Pakistan, but overall cricket will be benefited."Khan also questioned the role of the International Cricket Council (ICC) if India does not participate. He called on the global cricket body to ensure that India honors its commitments. "India ought to honor their commitments with the ICC," he said. "And if they do not come, then Pakistan should reconsider their decision to participate in any future events slated to be held in India."The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is scheduled to take place in Pakistan, but India's participation remains uncertain due to ongoing political tensions. India has not toured Pakistan since 2006, and diplomatic relations show no signs of improvement, making an Indian tour to Pakistan highly unlikely.The lack of bilateral matches between India and Pakistan has been a major disappointment for cricket fans around the world. The two teams have a rich history of rivalry and have produced some of the most memorable matches in cricket history. However, political tensions have prevented them from playing each other on a regular basis.Khan's comments reflect the growing frustration within the cricket community over the lack of India-Pakistan matches. He urged the ICC to take a more proactive role in resolving the issue and ensuring that both countries honor their commitments to the sport.

The South African Cricketers' Association (SACA) has expressed its support for promoting women's cricket while acknowledging the upcoming ODI series between South Africa and Afghanistan in the UAE. Afghanistan remains the only ICC Full Member without a women's team due to severe restrictions imposed on women under the Taliban government.This bilateral series marks the first between the two nations and only the third time South Africa will play 50-over cricket against Afghanistan after facing them at the 2019 and 2023 World Cups. These fixtures are not part of the 2023-2027 Future Tours Programme (FTP) but have been added to provide more competitive opportunities for South Africa's teams.SACA welcomed these additions but expressed concern over the "deteriorating human rights for women under the Taliban rule." The association reiterated its support for promoting women's cricket globally."World Cricketers' Association and SACA do not condone any situation in which women's players are excluded from competing in our sport," said Andrew Breetzke, SACA CEO and WCA board member. "Every athlete has the right to equality of opportunity, protected by international law and the Universal Declaration of Player Rights."SACA urged CSA to use its leverage during the series to highlight the importance of protecting and respecting the rights of Afghanistan's women's players.CSA is expected to remain silent on the statement but has participated in discussions regarding Afghanistan's situation as an ICC Member. The ICC continues to explore solutions, including the possibility of a refugee team based in Australia.The ICC is hesitant to ban Afghanistan's men's team, as it did with South Africa in 1970 due to racial Apartheid. The ACB cannot recognize a women's team due to the Taliban's stance on women. Concerns exist that forcing the issue could endanger lives.Despite Afghanistan's Full Member status, some countries have refused to play against them bilaterally. Australia has postponed two series against Afghanistan due to government concerns. South Africa has only faced Afghanistan in major events, including the recent T20 World Cup semi-final.South Africa's white-ball coach, Rob Walter, declined to comment on whether the team considered not playing against Afghanistan, deferring to Cricket South Africa.South Africa will play three ODIs against Afghanistan in Sharjah from next Wednesday, followed by two T20Is and three ODIs against Ireland in Abu Dhabi.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) is dispatching a delegation to Pakistan this month to assess preparations for the upcoming Champions Trophy. The delegation will engage with the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) to finalize the tournament's schedule and address logistical matters.The PCB has submitted a tentative schedule to the ICC, proposing Lahore as the base for the Indian team. However, the schedule remains subject to approval from participating boards and the Indian government's decision on whether to allow its team to play in Pakistan.The ICC delegation will conduct site inspections at Champions Trophy venues in Karachi, Lahore, and Rawalpindi. They will evaluate infrastructure development, security arrangements, broadcasting facilities, team accommodations, and travel plans.With Jay Shah, the BCCI secretary, set to assume the role of ICC chairman on December 1, the announcement of the Champions Trophy schedule may be delayed, similar to last year's World Cup in India.The delegation's visit underscores the ICC's commitment to ensuring a successful Champions Trophy in Pakistan. The tournament is scheduled to take place in September 2023 and will feature the top eight ODI teams in the world.