Cricket

Sri Lanka and New Zealand are set to face off in the third and final ODI of their series in Pallekele. The hosts, led by Charith Asalanka, are aiming for a 3-0 series sweep, while the visitors, captained by Mitchell Santner, are determined to end the series on a high note.Asalanka expressed his team's desire to win the series but also acknowledged the importance of giving opportunities to new players. Five changes have been made to the Sri Lankan playing XI, including the ODI debut of Chamindu Wickramasinghe.Santner, on the other hand, believes the wicket looks better for batting than in the previous game. He emphasized the need for his team to post a strong total and defend it effectively. New Zealand has also made two changes, with Zakary Foulkes and Adam Milne replacing Nathan Smith and Jacob Duffy, respectively.Pitch expert Farveez Maharoof noted that the pitch has improved for batting due to reduced cracks. He suggested that chasing might be the preferred option due to the dew factor and potential rain.

Sri Lanka's dominance over New Zealand continued in the third ODI, as they secured a comprehensive victory to complete a historic 3-0 series whitewash. Under the guidance of legendary coach Sanath Jayasuriya, Sri Lanka has witnessed a remarkable resurgence in their cricket, and this series triumph stands as a testament to their newfound prowess.The match, played at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium, saw Sri Lanka bat first and post a formidable total of 283/9. Opener Pathum Nissanka led the charge with a brilliant 72, while Dhananjaya de Silva contributed a valuable 66. New Zealand's bowlers struggled to contain Sri Lanka's aggressive batting, with only Mitchell Santner and Michael Bracewell managing to take multiple wickets.In response, New Zealand's chase faltered from the outset. They lost early wickets and never managed to recover, eventually being bowled out for just 162. Sri Lanka's bowlers shared the spoils, with Kasun Rajitha, Chamika Karunaratne, and Maheesh Theekshana each claiming three wickets.The victory marks a significant milestone for Sri Lanka, as it is the first time they have ever whitewashed New Zealand in an ODI series. It also extends their winning streak to five consecutive ODIs, a testament to their newfound confidence and consistency.For New Zealand, the series defeat will serve as a wake-up call ahead of the upcoming T20I series. They will need to regroup and find a way to counter Sri Lanka's aggressive approach and potent bowling attack.

ODI Cricket's Future: Mark Waugh Predicts a Shift Towards Major TournamentsAs the international cricket calendar becomes increasingly congested, Australian cricket legend Mark Waugh believes that One-Day International (ODI) cricket may face a gradual decline, with its future primarily confined to major tournaments like the ICC World Cup and Champions Trophy.Waugh's prediction stems from Australia's recent 1-2 ODI series loss to Pakistan, where a second-string Australian side struggled in the absence of its star Test players. The poor batting performances in the second and third ODIs, where Australia was dismissed for just 163 and 140 runs respectively, raised concerns about the format's relevance in the modern era.According to Waugh, the proliferation of bilateral ODI series has diluted the format's significance. "The World Cup and the Champions Trophies are still great events," he said. "But given the scheduling of all these T20 tournaments around now, it's squeezing out 50-over bilateral series."Waugh believes that the value of bilateral ODIs may diminish as the calendar becomes even more packed with T20 leagues and tournaments. "I think it will get phased out," he added. "I think that's probably the way to go."However, Waugh does not advocate for the complete elimination of ODI cricket. He suggests that the format could be preserved for exclusive events like the ICC World Cup and Champions Trophy. "When you get towards these big tournaments like a World Cup, then you might introduce some more games as lead-ups," he said.Waugh's prediction aligns with the observations of other cricket commentators, such as Ian Healy and Michael Clarke, who have suggested that Cricket Australia may be losing interest in low-stakes bilateral series.As the international cricket landscape continues to evolve, it remains to be seen whether ODI cricket will retain its prominence or gradually fade into the background, with its future primarily tied to major tournaments.

Pakistan's Haris Rauf Mimics Hardik Pandya's Celebration in ODI Triumph Over AustraliaPakistan's fast bowler Haris Rauf showcased a confident celebration reminiscent of India's Hardik Pandya during the third ODI against Australia in Perth on Sunday. After claiming the wicket of Matthew Short, Rauf performed a "shoulder shrug" gesture, similar to Pandya's celebration after dismissing Shadab Khan in the T20 World Cup match against Pakistan.Rauf's celebration came after he delivered a short-pitched delivery outside off stump, which Short attempted to pull. However, Irfan Khan at deep square leg completed the catch successfully. Pakistan went on to secure an eight-wicket victory, their first ODI series triumph in Australia in 22 years.Saim Ayub (42) and Abdullah Shafique (37) led Pakistan's chase of 140, while Naseem Shah, Shaheen Shah Afridi, and Rauf starred with the ball. Despite losing the opening match in Melbourne, Pakistan bounced back with a convincing nine-wicket win in Adelaide.Rauf's celebration drew attention to the growing influence of Indian cricket on the global stage. Pandya's "shoulder shrug" gesture has become iconic, and Rauf's imitation highlights the respect and admiration that Pakistani players have for their Indian counterparts.The victory in Perth was a significant achievement for Pakistan, who have struggled in recent years to maintain consistency in ODI cricket. The team's ability to adapt to Australian conditions and overcome the loss of key players like Babar Azam and Fakhar Zaman is a testament to their resilience and determination.As Pakistan looks ahead to the upcoming World Cup in India, the team will be hoping to build on their success in Australia. With a talented squad and a growing belief in their abilities, Pakistan will be a force to be reckoned with on the global stage.

Haris Rauf's devastating five-wicket haul propelled Pakistan to a commanding position in the second ODI against Australia in Adelaide, giving them a golden opportunity to level the series.Rauf's incisive spell of 5 for 29 ripped through Australia's middle order, leaving the hosts reeling at 163 all out in just 35 overs. The right-arm pacer's relentless pace and accuracy proved too much for the Australian batsmen, who were unable to settle into any rhythm.Rauf's wicket-taking spree began with the dismissal of Josh Inglis for 18, followed by the prized scalp of Marnus Labuschagne for a mere 6. He then accounted for Aaron Hardie (14) and Glenn Maxwell (16), leaving Australia in tatters.Captain Pat Cummins (13) was Rauf's fifth victim, caught behind in a moment of brilliance. Steve Smith's 35 was the only significant contribution for Australia, as they were bowled out for their lowest ODI total against Pakistan since 2002.Pakistan captain Mohammad Rizwan played a crucial role behind the stumps, taking six catches to complete a memorable performance. Shaheen Shah Afridi also chipped in with three wickets, removing openers Matthew Short and Jake Fraser-McGurk cheaply.The victory gives Pakistan a much-needed boost after their narrow defeat in the first match. They will now look to seal the series in the third and final ODI on Sunday in Perth.

Interim England head coach Marcus Trescothick has expressed his concerns over the team's recent struggles, following their 2-1 ODI series defeat to the West Indies. The loss marks England's third consecutive series defeat in the format.Trescothick acknowledged the challenges faced by the team, which included a packed cricketing schedule and the inclusion of several inexperienced players. "It has been a really challenging time for us," he said. "Guys have just finished the Test series in Pakistan. There is another Test series starting in 20 days' time. We know where we are. We have seen some things we have wanted to see."In the series decider at Kensington Oval in Barbados, the West Indies chased down England's total of 263/8 with seven overs remaining, thanks to unbeaten centuries from Keacy Carty and Brandon King. Trescothick praised the performance of young all-rounder Jacob Bethell, who scored a half-century in England's victory in the second match of the series. "Bethell has really shone in the short space of time he has had," he said.Despite the disappointing results, Trescothick believes the team is making progress. "We have a better understanding of what our team will look like in comparison to series results," he said. "A few guys are really stepping up. Liam Livingstone, for example. Bethell has really shone in the short space of time he has had."Former England captain Alastair Cook believes the appointment of Brendon McCullum as head coach of the white-ball teams will provide a much-needed boost. "I'm looking forward to McCullum having his stamp on this side because he has a way of getting the best out of players," Cook said. "Every time he's taken over sides, there's been a real enthusiasm about playing in that team. With that one-day team, it just needs a bit of a boost."

Afghanistan's young spin sensation, Allah Ghazanfar, etched his name in cricket history with a remarkable six-wicket haul that propelled his team to a resounding 92-run victory over Bangladesh in the first ODI encounter in Sharjah.The 18-year-old mystery spinner, who began his cricketing journey as a fast bowler, showcased his exceptional talent by dismantling Bangladesh's batting lineup. His figures of 6 for 26 in 6.3 overs proved decisive as Bangladesh collapsed from a promising 132/3 to a disappointing 143 all out while chasing a target of 236 runs.Ghazanfar's performance marked the best bowling figures in an Afghanistan-Bangladesh ODI match, surpassing Shakib Al Hasan's 5-29 at Southampton in 2019. His brilliance earned him the Player of the Match award, further cementing his status as a rising star in international cricket.Ghazanfar's journey to the top has been marked by hard work and determination. After being converted into a spinner by former Afghanistan skipper Dawlat Ahmadzai, he made a name for himself with his impressive showing during the 2024 U-19 World Cup, where he claimed eight wickets in four matches.His performances at the youth level earned him a senior team call-up, and he made his ODI debut against Ireland. He continued to impress, winning the Player of the Match award in the Emerging Asia Cup final against Sri Lanka A as Afghanistan clinched the title.Ghazanfar's talent has also caught the attention of the Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), who added him to their squad as a replacement for Mujeeb Ur Rahman. Although he did not play any matches for KKR in the 2024 campaign, his inclusion in the squad is a testament to his potential.Afghanistan captain Hashmatullah Shahidi praised Ghazanfar's performance, saying, "He is a special talent and has a good future for Afghanistan. He bowled well in the first spell, but he bowled that no-ball and I asked him why did he bowl a no-ball (laughs). I am very happy with the options we have on the bench."Bangladesh captain Najmul Hossain rued his team's batting slump, acknowledging that his own dismissal played a crucial role in the defeat. "I think my wicket turned the match," said Najmul. "I was the set batsman so when I got out we needed to bat longer but credit to Afghanistan spinners for the way they bowled."

Kamran Ghulam's baptism by fire on Australian soil proved to be a baptism by fire indeed. The Pakistani batsman, playing only his second ODI, faced the daunting task of navigating the bouncy tracks of Melbourne against a formidable Australian bowling attack.Ghulam's debut innings began promisingly, with a crisp boundary off Adam Zampa's flighted delivery. However, the joy was short-lived as he soon found himself facing the wily Pat Cummins.Cummins, with his trademark precision, tested Ghulam's technique with a series of probing deliveries. Ghulam's mistimed pull shot and subsequent "wait on" drew a wry smile from the Australian captain.The decisive moment came when Cummins unleashed a venomous short ball that was aimed directly at Ghulam's head. The Pakistani batsman, caught off guard by the pace and trajectory, could only watch in horror as the ball took off his glove and flew straight into the waiting hands of Josh Inglis.Ghulam's dismissal was a testament to the relentless pressure applied by the Australian bowlers. Pakistan, struggling against the precision bowling, were eventually bundled out for a paltry 203, with Mitchell Starc and Cummins claiming three and two wickets respectively.Ghulam's experience in Melbourne highlights the challenges faced by young batsmen making the transition to international cricket. The flat pitches of Pakistan offer a stark contrast to the bouncy tracks of Australia, and the quality of bowling is second to none.Despite the setback, Ghulam's performance showed glimpses of his potential. His ability to hit the ball cleanly and his willingness to take on the short ball suggest that he has the makings of a top-class batsman. With time and experience, he could become a valuable asset to the Pakistani team.

England's white-ball team embarks on a fourth tour of the Caribbean in three years, seeking to continue their post-World Cup reboot under the impending influence of Brendon McCullum. Despite the absence of key multi-format players, this series presents an opportunity for the next generation to stake their claim in the Bazball era.Liam Livingstone, recently elevated to the captaincy, leads a squad featuring five potential ODI debutants, including Jordan Cox and Jafer Chohan. Established names like Sam Curran and Phil Salt will also be eager to prove their worth in the absence of Jos Buttler and Harry Brook.West Indies, with their proud home record against England, will pose a formidable challenge. Led by Evin Lewis, who recently returned to form with a match-winning century, and the pace prowess of Alzarri Joseph and Jayden Seales, they have the firepower to blunt England's aggressive batting.The series will be played at the Sir Vivian Richards Ground in Antigua, where West Indies have won five of their last six matches. However, England will be buoyed by their recent victory at the same venue in December 2023.With the Test tours of Pakistan and New Zealand looming, this series provides a valuable opportunity for England to experiment and assess their options. The focus will be on individual performances and the development of a cohesive strategy under the Bazball philosophy.