Category: CRICKET

England has announced their T20 and ODI squads for the upcoming series against Australia. Five uncapped players – Jordan Cox, Jacob Bethell, Dan Mousley, Josh Hull, and John Turner – are included in the T20 squad. Gus Atkinson, Harry Brook, Matthew Potts, and Jamie Smith join the ODI squad. Jonny Bairstow and Moeen Ali are notably absent from both squads. Brydon Carse returns after serving a suspension. Jos Buttler will captain both teams. The T20 series begins on September 11, followed by the ODI series on September 19. AFP

Bangladesh secured their first-ever Test victory against Pakistan with a 10-wicket win in Rawalpindi. Captain Najmul Hossain Shanto hailed it as “massive” and “historic”. Spinners Mehedi Hasan Miraz and Shakib Al Hasan were crucial, taking seven wickets between them in Pakistan’s second innings. Mushfiqur Rahim’s 191 helped Bangladesh gain a 117-run first-innings lead. The visitors chased down the 30-run target easily, going 1-0 up in the two-match series. Shanto praised his team’s belief and character throughout the match.

England defeated Sri Lanka by five wickets in the first Test at Old Trafford. Chasing 205, Joe Root’s unbeaten 62 and Jamie Smith’s 39 guided England to victory. Earlier, Sri Lanka’s Kamindu Mendis scored 113, helping set the target. Despite a strong Sri Lankan resistance, England reached 205-5 to take a 1-0 lead in the three-match series. Root’s patient innings and Smith’s support were crucial in overcoming Sri Lanka’s challenge, especially given the absence of regular captain Ben Stokes due to injury. AFP

Indian cricketer Shikhar Dhawan, 38, announced his retirement from all forms of cricket. The left-handed batsman scored 2,315 runs in Tests and 6,793 runs in ODIs for India. He last played internationally in December 2022 and domestically in the 2023 IPL. Dhawan is the second-highest run-scorer in IPL history. He expressed gratitude for his career and peace with his decision to retire. AFP

In a T20 international match, West Indies defeated South Africa by seven wickets at the Brian Lara Cricket Academy Stadium. Nicholas Pooran led the chase with an unbeaten 65 off 26 balls, while Shai Hope contributed 51. Earlier, Tristan Stubbs’ 76 helped South Africa recover from a poor start to post 174-7. The match marked the international debut of 18-year-old South African seamer Kwena Maphaka. The series continues with the second game on Sunday. AFP

Afghanistan’s Shpageeza T20 cricket league drew thousands of excited fans to Kabul’s stadium, with many traveling long distances to see national stars like Rashid Khan. The tournament’s appeal was boosted by the inclusion of national players, some of whom haven’t played domestically since the Taliban took power in 2021. Fans expressed joy at seeing their cricketing heroes, despite some not playing in the match. The event raised hopes for future international matches in Afghanistan, providing a rare source of happiness for many. AFP

BCB president Nazmul Hassan Papon has called a board meeting for Wednesday, where he is expected to announce his resignation. The meeting will be held at the Youth and Sports Ministry, with directors attending in person and virtually. Former captain Faruque Ahmed is rumored to be the frontrunner to replace Papon. This follows the recent resignation of NSC-nominated director Jalal Yunus, while another, Ahmed Sajjadul Alam Bobby, has yet to step down despite being asked.

Jalal Yunus, the cricket operations chairman of Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB), has resigned from his position as board director. He was one of two directors nominated by the National Sports Council (NSC). Jalal cited “the greater good of cricket” as his reason for stepping down. The NSC will now appoint a new director to fill the vacancy left by Jalal’s departure. This development marks a significant change in the leadership structure of Bangladesh’s cricket governing body. Daily Star

Pakistan has released fast bowler Aamir Jamal from their Test squad for the upcoming series against Bangladesh due to his ongoing recovery from a back injury. Jamal has been advised to continue his rehabilitation at the National Cricket Academy in Lahore. This follows the earlier release of leg-spinner Abrar Ahmed and batter Kamran Ghulam, reducing the squad to 14 members. The first Test between Bangladesh and Pakistan is scheduled to begin on August 21 at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium.

South Africa defeated West Indies by 40 runs in the second Test, winning the series. Chasing 263, West Indies were bowled out for 222. Keshav Maharaj took 3 wickets, becoming South Africa’s most successful Test spinner. Jayden Seales claimed 6-61 for West Indies. Gudakesh Motie top-scored with 45 for the hosts. Wiaan Mulder was named man of the match, while Maharaj was man of the series. This extends South Africa’s unbeaten Test series run against West Indies since 1998/99. AFP

Bangladesh Cricket Board’s High Performance Unit secured a semifinal spot in the Top End T20 series in Darwin, Australia, with a three-wicket victory over Perth Scorchers. Mahfuzur Rahman Rabby’s unbeaten 32 off 13 balls was crucial in chasing down Perth’s 129-5. Despite early setbacks caused by Matthew Kelly’s 3-8, the HP Unit reached 130-7 in 19.3 overs. Skipper Akbar Ali (35) and Jishan Alam (26) also contributed significantly. The HP Unit finished the first round with three wins and three losses. Daily Star

Bangladesh Cricket Board President Nazmul Hasan has agreed to step down from his position, ending his fourth term. This decision comes amid political unrest in Bangladesh. Hasan, who had been in hiding in London since August 5, has agreed to a board reformation. Meanwhile, BCB officials met with a newly appointed interim government adviser to discuss various issues, including the fate of the upcoming Women’s Twenty20 World Cup scheduled to be hosted in Bangladesh. dhaka tribune

The Pakistan Cricket Board has decided to hold the second Test against Bangladesh at the National Stadium in Karachi behind closed doors due to ongoing construction work for the ICC Champions Trophy. Ticket sales have been suspended, and purchased tickets will be refunded. The PCB expressed regret but emphasized that safety is the priority. The first Test will be played in Rawalpindi from August 21, while the second Test is scheduled for August 30 to September 3 in Karachi. PTI

England Test captain Ben Stokes has been ruled out for the rest of the season due to a torn hamstring, missing the upcoming Sri Lanka series. Vice-captain Ollie Pope will lead in his absence. Stokes sustained the injury while playing in The Hundred tournament. He aims to return for England’s winter tour of Pakistan. This setback follows his recent knee surgery and decision to skip the T20 World Cup to focus on Test cricket. AFP

England Test captain Ben Stokes suffered a suspected hamstring injury while playing for Northern Superchargers in The Hundred. The incident occurred during a match against Manchester Originals at Old Trafford. Stokes was helped off the field after clutching his left hamstring. With England’s upcoming Test series against Sri Lanka starting August 21, concerns arise about Stokes’ availability. He is scheduled for a scan on Monday to assess the injury’s severity. Reuters

In Bangladesh, newly appointed Youth and Sports Adviser Asif Mahmud addressed concerns about hosting the Women’s T20 World Cup. He plans to consult with interim government Chief Adviser Prof. Yunus and seek UN guidance on security and travel restrictions. The ICC is monitoring the situation following recent unrest, considering alternative hosting options. Mahmud also suggested appointing an interim BCB president due to the current president’s absence.

Bangladesh has named a 16-member squad for their upcoming Test tour of Pakistan, including all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan despite previous concerns about his fitness for red-ball cricket. Mushfiqur Rahim and Taskin Ahmed return to the side, while Shahadat Hossain Dipu is left out. The team, led by Najmul Hossain Shanto, will depart for Lahore tomorrow. They will train at Gaddafi Stadium before the first Test begins on August 21, followed by the second on August 30.

The Bangladesh Cricket Board has rescheduled the national team’s departure for Pakistan to August 12, five days earlier than planned. This decision follows training disruptions due to foreign coaches’ reluctance to join practices amid the current situation in Bangladesh. The early arrival will allow the team to adjust to Pakistani conditions and complete their preparation. The squad announcement is expected soon, with the first Test starting on August 21 in Rawalpindi. Daily Star

Bangladesh cricketer Litton Das refuted rumors of an attack on his home amid communal tensions. In a Facebook post, he assured his family’s safety and praised national unity. Litton emphasized Bangladesh’s secular nature and called for collective progress regardless of religious or caste differences. He expressed gratitude for the solidarity shown by people in Dinajpur and across the country. Dhaka Tribune

Security concerns are growing at Mirpur’s Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium due to the presence of outsiders. Following recent unrest, some groups have entered the premises, creating an uneasy atmosphere. Bangladesh ‘A’ team has resumed training, but the situation remains tense. BCB officials acknowledge the discomfort, attributing it to the country’s transition period. They hope for normalization once the interim government is formed. The Bangladesh Army continues routine patrols in the area. Daily Star

Afghanistan’s cricket board banned former international batter Ihsanullah Janat for five years due to corrupt activities in a domestic league. Three other players are under investigation. Janat, 26, admitted to the charges. The ban is effective immediately. This comes as Afghanistan’s cricket team has been making significant progress internationally, including impressive performances in recent World Cup tournaments. Source AFP

Bangladesh High Performance unit suffered an eight-wicket defeat to Pakistan Shaheens in their final match of the Bi-Lateral 50-over series in Darwin, Australia. Batting first, Bangladesh was bowled out for 78 runs, with Parvez Hossain Emon top-scoring at 19. Pakistan easily chased the target, reaching 79-2 in 17 overs. The Bangladesh HP team will now participate in the Top End T20 series, starting with a match against Melbourne Renegades on August 11.

Bangladesh’s Test series preparation in Pakistan faces setbacks due to ongoing unrest. Practice sessions postponed, and curfew imposed, causing uncertainty. Team departure scheduled for August 17, with Tests in Rawalpindi and Karachi. Bangladesh ‘A’ team’s tour also in doubt. BCB monitoring situation, adhering to initial schedules but acknowledging potential changes based on circumstances. Weather issues also affected recent physical assessments.

Sri Lankan spinner Wanindu Hasaranga is out of the remaining ODI series against India due to a hamstring injury sustained during the first match. Despite taking three wickets, Hasaranga experienced pain while bowling his final over. An MRI confirmed the injury. Sri Lanka is already missing pacers Pathirana and Madushanka. The second ODI is on Sunday, with the final match on August 7 in Colombo. Reuters

Bangladesh Cricket Board announced captains for the Bangladesh A team’s upcoming tour of Pakistan. Anamul Haque Bijoy will lead the four-day series, while Towhid Hridoy will captain the one-day matches. Bijoy, with five Test appearances, has a strong first-class record. Hridoy, a regular in Bangladesh’s white-ball setup since 2023, boasts an impressive List A average. The tour begins on August 6, featuring two four-day matches followed by three one-day internationals. All games will be played in Islamabad between August 10 and 27. Daily Star

Bangladesh will host the 2027 Men’s Asia Cup in ODI format, while India will host the 2025 edition in T20 format. Both tournaments will feature 13 matches with six teams. The 2026 Women’s T20 Asia Cup is also planned. India last hosted the Men’s Asia Cup in 1990/91. The Asian Cricket Council has invited sponsorship bids for 2024-2027 events, with an August 2 deadline.. The daily star

England achieved a 3-0 series whitewash against West Indies with a 10-wicket victory in the third Test at Edgbaston. Captain Ben Stokes broke a 40-year-old record for the fastest Test fifty by an England batsman, scoring 57 not out off 24 balls. Mark Wood’s impressive 5-40 helped dismiss West Indies for 175 in their second innings. England chased down the target of 82 in just 7.2 overs. Source:Prothom alo

Former Sri Lanka Under-19 cricket captain Dhammika Niroshana, 41, was fatally shot outside his home in Ambalangoda. Niroshana, who retired in 2004, had a promising career as a fast-bowler and played alongside future stars like Angelo Mathews. He is survived by his wife and two children. Sri Lankan authorities have launched an investigation, with police spokesperson Nihal Thalduwa suggesting the shooting may be linked to gang rivalry. The incident has shocked the cricket community, highlighting the tragic loss of a former sporting talent. Daily Star

England has replaced the retired James Anderson with Mark Wood for the second Test against West Indies at Trent Bridge. Wood, who has 108 Test wickets, is the only change from the team that won at Lord’s. Anderson, ending his career with 704 Test wickets, will start as a fast-bowling mentor. England can secure the series with a win before the final Test at Edgbaston.Source:AFP

India secured a 10-wicket victory over Zimbabwe in the fourth T20I, taking an unbeatable 3-1 lead in the series. Yashasvi Jaiswal’s impressive 93 off 53 balls and Shubman Gill’s 58 off 39 guided India to chase down Zimbabwe’s 152/7 with ease. This marks India’s second 10-wicket win in T20Is, both against Zimbabwe at the same venue. The final match of the series is scheduled for Sunday at Harare Sports Club.

Bangladesh’s U-19 cricket team and women’s national team are preparing for upcoming challenges at BKSP in Savar. The U-19s, under coach Naveed Nawaz, are nurturing new talent. The women’s team, led by coach Hashan Tillakaratne, is focusing on improving their batting approach for the Asia Cup and T20 World Cup. Despite weather challenges, both teams remain upbeat and determined. BKSP’s environment provides an ideal setting for focused training and mental preparation. Daily Star

England dominated day two of the first Test against West Indies at Lord’s, with James Anderson leading the bowling attack in his farewell match. The West Indies struggled at 79-6 in their second innings, trailing by 171 runs. Anderson took 2-11, while debutant Gus Atkinson continued his impressive form. England’s Jamie Smith scored 70 in their first innings total of 371. England now eye a convincing victory in the three-match series opener. AFP

Bangladesh Cricket Board’s chief coordinator Minhajul Abedin highlighted critical issues in Bangladesh cricket, including a limited player pool, Dhaka-centric cricket structure, and lack of established first-class cricket. He emphasized the need for decentralization and more domestic T20 matches. Despite these longstanding problems being repeatedly identified, the board has made little progress in addressing them over the past 12 years, raising concerns about the future of Bangladesh cricket.Source:Daily Star

Australian cricketer David Warner hints at a potential return for the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy, despite announcing his international retirement. Warner, who recently retired from Tests and T20Is, expressed openness to playing in the tournament if selected. He plans to continue playing franchise T20 cricket. Warner has 6932 ODI runs with 22 centuries, second only to Ricky Ponting in Australia’s all-time list.Source:Daily Star

Bangladesh is set to play a two-match Test series against Pakistan in August, part of the ICC Test Championship. The first Test will be in Rawalpindi from August 21, and the second in Karachi from August 30. This marks Bangladesh’s return to Pakistan for a bilateral series since 2020. Pakistan is also scheduled to host England, West Indies, and New Zealand, followed by the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. BD Pratidin

Pakistan Cricket Board submitted a draft schedule for the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy to be held in Pakistan. Bangladesh is grouped with India, Pakistan, and New Zealand. The tournament is set to run from February 19 to March 9, with matches in Karachi, Lahore, and Rawalpindi. A high-profile India-Pakistan match is scheduled for March 1 in Lahore. However, India’s participation remains uncertain due to ongoing political tensions between the two Source Daily Star