This week in cricket has brought significant headlines, from match cancellations to player comebacks and leadership changes. The much-anticipated one-off Test between Afghanistan and New Zealand was abandoned due to poor drainage at Noida International Cricket Stadium, leaving fans disappointed. Meanwhile, Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has made the tough decision to cut down women cricketers’ allowances amid a financial crunch. Mohammed Shami gears up for Ranji Trophy ahead of his Test comeback, while England faces a shift in leadership as Harry Brook steps in to captain the ODI series against Australia, with Jos Buttler sidelined due to injury. Adding to the excitement, Liam Livingstone has been recalled to the 50-over squad as cover. Let’s dive into the details of this action-packed week!
Afghanistan vs New Zealand Test Abandoned Due to Poor Drainage
A moment of history was made on Friday at the Greater Noida Sports Complex, though not the kind to be proud of. At 8:42 am, as the rains returned to soak the uncovered parts of the outfield, the much-anticipated one-off Test between Afghanistan and New Zealand was abandoned without a single ball being bowled. This marks the first time a Test match has been abandoned in this manner since 1998.
The match was plagued by a combination of unfortunate factors: inclement weather, poor drainage facilities, a shortage of ground staff, and an inadequately equipped stadium. Despite clear skies during match hours on the first two days and the sun making an appearance, no play was possible.
Afghanistan’s head coach Jonathan Trott voiced his frustration regarding both the scheduling and the state of the ground. “In terms of facilities, we are obviously disappointed that we haven’t been able to play,” Trott remarked. “We were excited to take on New Zealand and test ourselves. We had prepared through warm-up matches and acclimatized to the unique conditions here, but unfortunately, the weather made it impossible to get a game. We’re deeply disappointed.”
The abandonment of this historic Test has raised questions about the planning and facilities for international matches, especially in newer venues like Noida.
PCB Cuts Women Cricketers’ Allowances Amid Financial Crisis
In a controversial and much-debated move, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has decided to halt the daily allowances for women cricketers attending national training camps. The decision has sparked widespread criticism, particularly as the men’s cricket team continues to receive uninterrupted benefits despite some recent underwhelming performances.
The new policy affected the current women’s training camp in Multan, which began on 1st September in preparation for the Women’s T20 World Cup 2024. According to PCB, if players are provided with accommodation and three meals a day, they are no longer eligible for additional daily allowances. In previous camps, where three meals were not included, players were given allowances. This time, however, the board opted to provide meals instead of the allowance, as reported by ESPNcricinfo.
This decision has drawn sharp criticism from advocates of gender equality in sports, who argue that while the PCB is willing to pour resources into infrastructure and high-profile events, it seems to undervalue the contributions and needs of its female players. A former player expressed concern that such moves might lead to growing discontent among the women cricketers and could potentially hinder the development of women’s cricket in Pakistan.
The PCB’s policy change raises broader questions about the commitment to women’s cricket and whether such decisions could affect the long-term growth and morale of female athletes in the country.
Mohammed Shami to Play Ranji Trophy Before Test Comeback
Indian fast-bowler Mohammed Shami is set to return to competitive cricket through the Ranji Trophy, as part of his preparation for an international comeback. Speaking at the Cricket Association of Bengal’s (CAB) annual awards ceremony, where he was honored for his outstanding performances, Shami expressed his desire to return in peak physical condition.
“Koshish jaldi hi kar raha hoon kyun ke main janta hoon kaafi time ho gaya hai team se bahar rehte hue (I am working hard to make a comeback soon because I know I have been out of action for quite some time). However, I want to ensure there is no discomfort when I return,” Shami told reporters. He emphasized the importance of working on his fitness, adding that he didn’t want to rush back and risk re-injury.
PTI reported last month that Shami, who is undergoing rehabilitation, will likely make his return to competitive cricket for Bengal in the Ranji Trophy, with a possible international appearance in the Test series against Bangladesh or later against New Zealand. He is expected to play one or two of Bengal’s opening Ranji Trophy matches, scheduled against Uttar Pradesh on October 11 and Bihar on October 18.
Shami’s return will be closely watched, as the pacer is considered a key component of India’s bowling attack. His presence in the Ranji Trophy is not only a boost for Bengal but also crucial for his match readiness ahead of India’s upcoming series.
Harry Brook to Captain England in ODI Series Against Australia; Liam Livingstone Recalled
Harry Brook is set to captain England for the first time in the upcoming one-day international series against Australia, stepping in as Jos Buttler remains sidelined due to a persistent calf injury. Buttler, 34, has also missed the ongoing three-match Twenty20 series against Australia, which is currently tied at 1-1 with the decider scheduled for later on Sunday.
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The injury has disrupted Buttler’s participation in recent cricketing events, including the Hundred. With Buttler’s absence, England has turned to Brook, who, despite having only 15 ODI caps, is viewed as a future leader for the team.
In addition, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has announced a squad change due to further injuries. Josh Hull, the 20-year-old left-arm fast bowler who made his Test debut in the Sri Lanka series finale at The Oval earlier this month, has been ruled out of the ODI series with a quad injury. He will now focus on recovery ahead of next month’s trip to Pakistan. All-rounder Liam Livingstone has been added to the squad in Hull’s place, following his impressive performances in the T20 series against Australia.
Livingstone’s recall comes after he was initially dropped from the ODI squad. His notable performances in the T20 series, which is currently level at 1-1, have earned him a spot in the 50-over squad. The first ODI of the five-match series is set to take place on Thursday at Trent Bridge, marking the beginning of an exciting series for England and Australia.
Call to Action
That wraps up this week’s cricket highlights! For a quick visual summary of these stories and more, check out our Instagram reel embedded below. Stay tuned and follow us for the latest updates and insights from the world of cricket!
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