Cricket

Gus Atkinson, the rising star of English cricket, has been crowned the Bob Willis Trophy winner as England's Player of the Year. The 23-year-old all-rounder had a remarkable debut Test summer, amassing 34 wickets and scoring his maiden century.Atkinson's impressive performances earned him the prestigious award, voted for by members of the Cricket Writers' Club. The award ceremony, held at the Kia Oval, also recognized other outstanding cricketers.Shoaib Bashir, the 20-year-old spinner, was named NV Play Young Player of the Year. Bashir has rapidly ascended to become England's first-choice spinner, claiming three Test five-fors in the past year.Sophie Ecclestone, the world's leading female spinner, won the JM Finn Women's Cricket Award. Ryana MacDonald-Gay, a promising all-rounder, was voted Emerging Cricketer.Liam Dawson, who was recently named the Professional Cricketers' Association men's player of the year, claimed the County Championship prize.Atkinson expressed his gratitude for the award, saying, "I was just hoping to make my England Test debut, and to have the summer that I've had, it's a huge honor and to get this award at the end of it tops it off."Bashir, who has made a meteoric rise in the past year, said, "Two years ago, I didn't have a county. It's been really special. With a lot of hard work, I'm thankful to be playing for my country. Long may it continue."Other award winners included Brendon Parr, who received the Lord's Taverners charity's Disability Cricketer of the Year award. James Anderson and the cast of Tailenders won the Peter Smith Award for outstanding presentation of cricket to the public. David Kynaston and Harry Ricketts won the Derek Hodgson Cricket Book of the year for "Richie Benaud's Blue Suede Shoes."Cricket Writers' Club chair Dean Wilson praised the award winners, saying, "Huge congratulations to all our award winners, reflecting another terrific year of cricket for all members of the media to cover."

Sadia Iqbal's brief reign as the top-ranked ICC women's T20I bowler was a historic moment for Pakistan cricket. However, Sophie Ecclestone quickly reclaimed the top spot, highlighting the intense competition at the pinnacle of the sport.Iqbal's rise to the top was fueled by her impressive performance in the ongoing Women's T20 World Cup. She equaled Ecclestone's ranking after taking three wickets for 17 runs against Sri Lanka in Pakistan's opening match. Ecclestone's return of 0 for 21 against South Africa allowed Iqbal to briefly overtake her.However, Iqbal's subsequent performance against India (1 for 23) and Ecclestone's Player-of-the-Match winning 2 for 15 against South Africa saw the English spinner regain her top ranking. The gap between the two remains narrow (762 points for Ecclestone, 754 for Iqbal), indicating the possibility of further changes in the rankings.Iqbal's success is a testament to her exceptional skills as a left-arm spinner. She has taken the most wickets (28) in T20Is in 2024 among all players participating in the World Cup. Sana Mir, the former Pakistan captain, is the only other Pakistani woman to top an ICC player table, having been the top-ranked ODI bowler in 2018-19.Beyond the top two, several other players have made notable movements in the rankings. Suzie Bates' 27 runs against India lifted her to seventh place among batters, while Harmanpreet Kaur's performances against New Zealand and Pakistan saw her rise to 12th. Danni Wyatt-Hodge's impressive scores against Bangladesh and South Africa helped her climb to joint 18th.Among bowlers, Megan Schutt's 3 for 12 against Sri Lanka propelled her into the top ten at No. 10. Sarah Glenn moved up to third, behind Ecclestone and Iqbal, while Ash Gardner and Rabeya Khan also made significant gains. Nonkululeko Mlaba's impressive performances for South Africa saw her rise nine spots to 13th.The ongoing Women's T20 World Cup has showcased the depth of talent in women's cricket. The competition for rankings positions remains fierce, with players from various nations vying for supremacy. As the tournament progresses, further changes in the rankings are likely, reflecting the unpredictable nature of the sport.

England Dominate South Africa in Women's T20 World CupSHARJAH, United Arab Emirates - England showcased their all-around prowess to secure a convincing seven-wicket victory over South Africa in the Women's T20 World Cup on Monday.England's spin quartet, led by the exceptional Sophie Ecclestone (2/15), stifled South Africa's batting in the death overs, limiting them to a modest 124/6 after the Proteas elected to bat on a challenging wicket.In response, England lost two early wickets, but opener Danni Wyatt-Hodge (43 off 43) and Nat Sciver-Brunt (48 not out from 36b; 6x4) seized control of the chase. The duo forged a match-winning 64-run partnership that propelled England to victory with four balls to spare.South Africa's innings began promisingly, with Laura Wolvaardt anchoring the top order. However, Ecclestone's dismissal of the skipper for 42 triggered a collapse, as the Proteas lost four wickets in the final four overs and managed only 39 runs.Legspinner Sarah Glenn complemented Ecclestone superbly, conceding just 1/18 from her four overs.England's victory marks their second consecutive win in the tournament, while South Africa's hopes of reaching the semi-finals have suffered a setback.

As the 2024 T20 Women's World Cup approaches, the spotlight shines on six exceptional players who embody the hopes and aspirations of their respective teams. These athletes possess a unique blend of skill, experience, and determination that could propel their nations to glory.Beth Mooney (Australia):The seasoned Australian opener, ranked number one in the ICC T20 batter rankings, is a cornerstone of the six-time champions' batting lineup. Her ability to anchor the innings and provide a solid foundation has been instrumental in Australia's past World Cup triumphs. Mooney's recent form, including a blistering 50 off 30 balls in a warm-up match against England, suggests she is primed to continue her dominance.Sophie Ecclestone (England):The 25-year-old left-arm spinner from Cheshire is the world's top-ranked bowler in both T20 and ODI cricket. Her accuracy, economy, and guile make her a formidable weapon for England captain Heather Knight. Ecclestone's ability to control the flow of runs and create wicket-taking opportunities will be crucial for England's title aspirations.Deepti Sharma (India):Known for her all-round prowess, Deepti Sharma is ranked second among T20 bowlers and third among all-rounders worldwide. Her left-handed batting and right-arm off-spin bowling provide India with a versatile option. Sharma believes that a World Cup victory could transform women's cricket in India, inspiring a new generation of players.Sune Luus (South Africa):The South African captain, who has transitioned from leg-spin to off-spin bowling, is a key batter and bowler for her team. Despite a recent dip in form, Luus has bounced back with impressive performances in a Test match against India and a T20I series against Pakistan. Her confidence and leadership will be vital for South Africa's chances of making a deep run in the tournament.Vishmi Gunaratne (Sri Lanka):At just 19 years old, Vishmi Gunaratne is a rising star in the Sri Lankan team. The young opener has shown glimpses of her potential, including an ODI century against Ireland. With the World Cup approaching, Gunaratne is eager to showcase her full range of abilities and help Sri Lanka make a mark on the global stage.Hayley Matthews (West Indies):The West Indies captain, who burst onto the scene as an 18-year-old in the 2016 T20 World Cup, is a versatile all-rounder. Matthews averages 25 with the bat and has taken 99 wickets with her off-spin. Her experience and leadership will be invaluable for the West Indies as they aim to upset the established powers and make a statement in the tournament.

Welsh Fire emerged victorious over Manchester Originals in a thrilling encounter at Emirates Old Trafford, securing a seven-wicket triumph in the Hundred. Sophia Dunkley's masterful 69 from 47 deliveries proved pivotal in guiding her side to victory, despite a mid-innings wobble.Manchester Originals posted a modest total of 113 for 7, with captain Sophie Ecclestone's late cameo of 27 from 15 balls providing a glimmer of hope. However, Welsh Fire's bowling attack, led by Jess Jonassen's three wickets, kept the Originals in check.Dunkley's innings was a masterclass in adaptability. She initially struggled to time the ball, but as she settled into her rhythm, she began to find the boundaries with ease. Her calculated risks against Ecclestone in the final overs proved decisive, as she guided Welsh Fire to victory with four balls to spare.Ecclestone's innings had earlier given the Originals a fighting chance. Her lusty blows for six showcased her power-hitting prowess. However, the Originals' batting lineup failed to capitalize on the solid start provided by Laura Woolvardt and Beth Mooney, who had raced to a 58-run partnership.Dunkley's half-century continued a trend of England Women's players excelling in the Hundred. Her performance echoed the sentiments of head coach Jon Lewis, who had challenged his players to dominate the competition."It got a bit closer than we thought," admitted Dunkley after the match. "I didn't feel in the innings for the first half. But once you got the pace of the wicket, it was easier. At the end, I had to take some calculated risks, and luckily we got over the line."Welsh Fire's victory was a testament to their resilience and determination. They overcame a mid-innings slump and executed their game plan with precision. As they look ahead to the rest of the Hundred, they will be confident in their ability to challenge for the title.

England's women's cricket team faces a "tricky" period before the T20 World Cup in October, according to head coach Jon Lewis. Despite an undefeated home summer, Lewis acknowledges the challenges of maintaining momentum during an extended break.England's 13 wins in 14 matches against Pakistan and New Zealand showcased their dominance, but Lewis emphasizes the need for consistency and adaptability. The team's world-class spin attack, led by Sophie Ecclestone, Charlie Dean, and Sarah Glenn, has been instrumental in their success.However, Lewis highlights the importance of fielding improvements, particularly from Sarah Glenn, and the growing experience of Lauren Bell, Lauren Filer, and Freya Kemp. The team's ability to bat "360 degrees" and access all areas of the ground has also been a key factor.Lewis acknowledges the sense of calm and confidence within the group, but he also recognizes the potential for distractions during the Hundred tournament. He believes that the Hundred can provide valuable experience, but it's crucial for players to navigate it effectively.The conditions in Bangladesh, where the T20 World Cup will be held, pose a significant challenge. Lewis emphasizes the need to understand and adapt to those conditions, as the team that plays them best will likely emerge victorious.To prepare for the unknown, Lewis has intentionally introduced distractions during New Zealand's visit, creating anxiety and pressure to help players develop coping mechanisms. He believes that by raising the level of anxiety, players can learn to bring themselves back to a calm place and communicate effectively.

England's experimental T20I squad continued their dominance over New Zealand, securing an unassailable 3-0 lead in the series with a six-wicket victory in Canterbury. Sophie Ecclestone's exceptional bowling performance, coupled with an unbeaten half-century from Alice Capsey, proved too much for the White Ferns.Ecclestone's four-wicket haul, including the crucial dismissal of New Zealand captain Sophie Devine, stifled the visitors' batting efforts. Devine's defiant 58* and Suzie Bates' 38 provided some resistance, but England's bowlers maintained control throughout the innings.In response, England's top-order struggled initially, losing two quick wickets to Fran Jonas. However, Sophia Dunkley's 26-ball 35 and Capsey's unbeaten 67* steadied the ship. Capsey's highest T20I score, coming off 60 deliveries, showcased her maturity and composure under pressure.Freya Kemp's quickfire 16* off eight balls sealed the victory for England, despite New Zealand's missed chances in the field. The White Ferns will rue their inability to capitalize on their opportunities, as England's clinical performance highlighted the gulf in class between the two sides.With two matches remaining in the series, England's experimental approach has paid dividends. The team has shown depth and versatility, with several players stepping up to fill key roles. As the series progresses, it will be intriguing to see if England continues to rotate their squad and give more players a chance to impress.

Sophie Ecclestone, the world's top-ranked bowler in both T20Is and ODIs, has been a dominant force in women's cricket for nearly five years. However, keeping her motivated remains a priority for the England Women's team.Ecclestone's exceptional left-arm spin has terrorized opposition batters, with her recent 5-wicket haul against New Zealand highlighting her prowess. England captain Heather Knight acknowledges the need to keep Ecclestone engaged, stating, "She loves taking wickets and we have to do some funky fields to keep her interested."Head coach Jon Lewis emphasizes the importance of ensuring Ecclestone's enjoyment of the game. "She has an incredible talent, and our job is to make sure she keeps enjoying her cricket," he said.Ecclestone attributes her motivation to the camaraderie within the team and the thrill of competition. "That definitely keeps me interested, that I travel the world with my best mates and you play cricket for your country with your best mates," she said. "And the competition, I love the competition. Ashes series, World Cup finals, super overs in a World Cup, that's what I live for, that's what I train for."Ecclestone's journey began in 2016, and she has since become England's leading wicket-taker in T20Is. She also has an impressive ODI record, with 108 wickets at an exceptional economy rate of 3.66.Despite missing out on England's 2017 World Cup triumph, Ecclestone has played a crucial role in the team's subsequent success. She is eager to add a World Cup and Ashes victory to her resume, with the T20 World Cup in Bangladesh and the Ashes series in Australia being key motivators."It's just win a World Cup and an Ashes," Ecclestone said. "That World Cup at Lord's, that was the last World Cup [England] won and we've not won an Ashes since because I've been a part of them all, so it'd be really nice to do that in the space of six months, win the World Cup in Bangladesh, win the Ashes. It would be an amazing few months for us."Ecclestone's humility and team-oriented mindset are evident in her praise for her fellow spinners, Sarah Glenn and Charlie Dean. "It's a nice little trio, me, Glenny, and Deano, and we all bring something different whether it's on the pitch or off the pitch," she said.Ecclestone's infectious enthusiasm and unwavering commitment to her team make her an invaluable asset. As she continues to dominate the world of bowling, her teammates and fans alike can expect more exceptional performances and a continued pursuit of cricketing glory.

Western Storm emerged victorious in their Rachael Heyhoe Flint Trophy opener, crushing Thunder by 66 runs at Emirates Old Trafford. Sophie Luff's unbeaten 76 anchored Storm's impressive 252 for 6, while Sophie Ecclestone's 3-16 threatened to derail their innings.Despite Ecclestone's early wickets, Storm rallied with crucial partnerships. Luff and Nat Wraith forged a 70-run alliance, followed by Luff and Niamh Holland's 46-run stand. Amanda-Jade Wellington's late cameo of 31 off 19 balls propelled Storm to a challenging total.Thunder's chase faltered early with Seren Smale's dismissal. Emma Lamb and Katie Mack steadied the ship with a 62-run partnership, but Wellington's double strike and a disastrous spell from Chloe Skelton left Thunder reeling at 104 for 6.Ellie Threlkeld and Kate Cross briefly revived Thunder's hopes with a 69-run partnership, but Sophia Smale's three wickets and Mahika Gaur's dismissal sealed Storm's victory.Storm's openers, Griffiths and Smale, provided a solid foundation with a 50-run partnership. Griffiths' dismissal triggered a mini-collapse, but Luff's resilience and late acceleration, coupled with Wellington's quickfire knock, propelled Storm to a formidable score.Thunder's spinners, led by Ecclestone, initially controlled the game, but Storm's determined fightback and Luff's anchoring innings proved too much to overcome.