The Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) has announced its squads for the upcoming multi-format tour of India, making a notable omission by leaving out star leg-spinner Rashid Khan from the one-off Test match. While Rashid has been rested from the longest format to manage his workload and physical longevity, key players Azmatullah Omarzai, Sediqullah Atal, and veteran batsman Rahmat Shah have returned to the red-ball setup. The highly anticipated one-off Test match against India is scheduled to begin on June 6 at the newly constructed Maharaja Yadavindra Singh PCA Stadium in New Chandigarh.

Managing Rashid’s Workload

According to team sources, the decision to leave Rashid Khan out of the red-ball fixture came after direct consultations with head coach Richard Pybus. The team management is prioritizing Rashid’s long-term fitness, given his heavy workload across international cricket and global T20 leagues. Rashid, who last played a Test match in July 2025, will however return to captain the side for the subsequent limited-overs segment. In his absence from the Test arena, the spin bowling responsibilities will be spearheaded by Qais Ahmad, alongside Sharafuddin Ashraf and young Nangeyalia Kharote.

Key Names Rejoin Red-Ball Setup

Experienced middle-order batsman Rahmat Shah makes a welcome return to the Test side. Having featured in 11 of Afghanistan’s 12 historic Test matches, Shah’s experience will be crucial on a fresh subcontinental track in New Chandigarh. He missed the country’s last Test assignment against Zimbabwe but is expected to anchor the top order here. Alongside him, explosive all-rounder Azmatullah Omarzai and top-order batter Sediqullah Atal have earned recalls to the 15-member squad led by regular skipper Hashmatullah Shahidi. Both Atal and Omarzai have played just a single Test match each so far, both coming during the 2024 series against Zimbabwe.

Transition in the Pace Battery

For the three-match ODI series starting on June 14, left-arm fast bowler Fareed Malik has earned a recall to the white-ball squad. Malik, who last played an ODI in 2024, adds variation and raw pace to a bowling line-up that relies heavily on its spinners. The rest of the ODI squad remains largely identical to the combination that secured a comprehensive series clean-sweep over Bangladesh late last year, signaling that selectors are looking for structural stability ahead of upcoming multi-nation ICC tournaments.

New Venue to Make Test Debut

The one-off Test will mark a historical milestone for Punjab cricket, as the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium in New Chandigarh prepares to host its first-ever five-day international match from June 6 to June 10. Local authorities have confirmed that pitch preparations are underway to ensure a balanced contest between bat and ball. Following the Test match, the tour moves to the picturesque Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium in Dharamshala for the first ODI, before traveling to Lucknow and Chennai for the final two games.

Fresh Faces in the Indian Roster

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) had previously announced its squad, naming young batsman Shubman Gill as the captain for both formats, while veteran stars Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli feature exclusively in the ODI team. The selectors have rested frontline speedster Jasprit Bumrah and all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja to manage their workloads. Interestingly, dynamic wicketkeeper-batsman Ishan Kishan has earned an ODI recall after nearly three years out of the format. The Indian squads also boast several uncapped domestic standouts, including Prince Yadav in the ODI team, spinner Manav Suthar in the Test squad, and all-rounders Gurnoor Brar and Harsh Dubey across both formats.

Touring Squads for the Series

Afghanistan Test Squad: Hashmatullah Shahidi (c), Abdul Malik, Sediqullah Atal, Rahmat Shah, Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Rahmanullah Zadran, Afsar Zazai, Ikram Alikhil, Azmatullah Omarzai, Sharafuddin Ashraf, Nangeyalia Kharote, Qais Ahmad, Bilal Sami, Zia Sharifi, Saleem Safi.

Afghanistan ODI Squad: Hashmatullah Shahidi (c), Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Ibrahim Zadran, Sediqullah Atal, Darwish Rasooli, Rahmat Shah, Ikram Alikhil, Mohammad Nabi, Azmatullah Omarzai, Rashid Khan, Nangeyalia Kharote, Allah Ghazanfar, Zia Ur Rahman, Fareed Malik, Bilal Sami.

India Test Squad: Shubman Gill (c), KL Rahul (vc), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Sai Sudharsan, Rishabh Pant, Devdutt Padikkal, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna, Manav Suthar, Gurnoor Brar, Harsh Dubey, Dhruv Jurel.

India ODI Squad: Shubman Gill (c), Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer (vc), KL Rahul, Ishan Kishan, Hardik Pandya, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, Arshdeep Singh, Prasidh Krishna, Prince Yadav, Gurnoor Brar, Harsh Dubey.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) is preparing to discuss a major expansion of the World Test Championship (WTC), with the number of participating teams likely to increase from nine to 12 in future cycles. The proposal has been recommended by an ICC working group led by former New Zealand cricketer Roger Twose. The move is aimed at providing more opportunities to emerging Test-playing nations including Afghanistan, Ireland and Zimbabwe.

Working Group Recommendations

According to reports, the ICC had formed the working group last year to evaluate possible structural reforms for the World Test Championship. The panel has now suggested expanding participation and making the competition more inclusive for full-member nations currently outside the regular WTC structure. At present, only nine teams compete in the championship cycle.

More Teams May Get Opportunity

If approved, the revised structure could allow teams like Afghanistan, Ireland and Zimbabwe to compete regularly in the WTC for the first time. Cricket administrators believe the change could help strengthen Test cricket globally and encourage smaller nations to invest more in the longest format of the game. The proposal is also being viewed as an effort to balance the competitive gap between established and emerging cricket nations.

ICC Meetings Scheduled

The ICC Chief Executives Committee (CEC) is expected to discuss the proposal during a virtual meeting scheduled for May 21. Following that, the ICC Board will hold an in-person meeting in Ahmedabad on May 30 and 31 during the IPL final weekend. The discussions are expected to focus on the future structure of Test cricket, scheduling challenges and financial implications of expansion.

Final Decision Likely in July

A final decision on the proposed WTC expansion could be taken during the ICC Annual General Meeting (AGM) in Edinburgh, Scotland, in July. The AGM will take place after the conclusion of the Women’s T20 World Cup, scheduled to be held in England from June 12 to July 5. Sources indicated that member boards are currently evaluating the long-term impact of increasing participation in the championship.

One-Test Series Proposal

The ICC working group has also recommended including one-match Test series in the WTC points system. Under the current format, a bilateral series must consist of at least two Test matches to be counted in the World Test Championship standings. If implemented, the proposed change could help smaller cricket boards host more meaningful Test matches without the financial burden of organising longer series.

Current WTC Cycle Unchanged

Despite the recommendations, reports suggest that the ongoing WTC structure is likely to remain unchanged until the 2027–29 cycle. The fourth cycle of the World Test Championship is currently underway, and major structural reforms may only be introduced afterward. Under the present format, the nine participating teams play six bilateral series over two years — three at home and three away.

England to Host 2027 Final

The current ICC Future Tours Programme (FTP) will conclude in March next year. The next World Test Championship final is scheduled to be played in England in June 2027. England has hosted all WTC finals so far, including the inaugural final won by New Zealand national cricket team.

Venue Shift for ICC Meetings

The ICC’s quarterly meetings were initially planned in Doha, Qatar. However, the venue was shifted to Ahmedabad due to regional security concerns and tensions in West Asia. The venue change has also drawn attention because of uncertainty surrounding the participation of Pakistan Cricket Board chairman Mohsin Naqvi.

PCB Chairman’s Visit Uncertain

With political relations between India and Pakistan remaining sensitive, it is still unclear whether Mohsin Naqvi will travel to India for the ICC meetings or join virtually. The matter is being closely watched by cricket administrators as the meetings are expected to play a significant role in shaping the future of international Test cricket.

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England have announced a revamped 15-member squad for the opening Test against New Zealand at Lord’s, making several major changes after their disappointing Ashes campaign in Australia earlier this year. The squad, revealed on Wednesday, marks the beginning of a new phase under recently appointed national selector Marcus North, who has introduced fresh faces and recalled experienced players in an attempt to rebuild England’s red-ball setup ahead of an important home summer.

The biggest talking point from the squad announcement is the exclusion of opening batter Zak Crawley. Once regarded as one of England’s most promising Test batters, Crawley has struggled for consistency over the last year, and his poor returns in the Ashes series eventually forced the selectors to look elsewhere. Replacing him is Durham opener Emilio Gay, who has been rewarded for his exceptional performances in county cricket this season.

Gay has been one of the standout performers in the County Championship, scoring 552 runs at an impressive average of 92, including three centuries. The 24-year-old left-hander is expected to open the batting alongside Ben Duckett and could make his Test debut at the iconic Lord’s Cricket Ground when the three-match series begins on June 4.

Another notable inclusion is Somerset youngster James Rew, who has been selected as a backup batter and wicketkeeping option. Rew has consistently impressed in domestic cricket with his calm batting temperament and adaptability. England see him as one of the future prospects in red-ball cricket, and his inclusion signals the selectors’ willingness to invest in youth ahead of the next World Test Championship cycle.

The squad also includes uncapped fast bowler Sonny Baker from Hampshire. Baker recently grabbed attention with a five-wicket haul in county cricket and has earned his maiden national call-up. England management believes his raw pace and attacking style could prove useful, especially with injuries affecting the pace department.

England’s bowling attack has undergone significant changes due to the absence of several senior fast bowlers. Mark Wood and Brydon Carse have both been ruled out because of injuries, creating opportunities for others to step up. One of the biggest beneficiaries is Ollie Robinson, who returns to the Test setup after nearly two years.

Robinson’s comeback follows a strong domestic season with Sussex, where he recently picked up six wickets and demonstrated improved rhythm and fitness. The tall seamer is expected to play a key role alongside Gus Atkinson and Josh Tongue in England’s pace attack. Robinson’s ability to maintain tight lines and extract movement from English conditions could be crucial against a strong New Zealand batting lineup.

Captain Ben Stokes is also likely to contribute with the ball. Since recovering from previous fitness concerns, Stokes has gradually increased his bowling workload and may once again be used as a fourth seam option during the series.

England have selected two spin options in the squad — Rehan Ahmed and Shoaib Bashir. Young leg-spinner Rehan Ahmed continues to be viewed as one of England’s exciting all-format talents. He is currently part of Delhi Capitals in the IPL but will join the national squad ahead of the series. Bashir, meanwhile, has impressed with his control and consistency in county cricket while representing Derbyshire.

Conditions at Lord’s traditionally favor seam bowlers, so England may opt for only one specialist spinner in the playing XI. However, both Rehan and Bashir are expected to play important roles during the series, particularly if the pitches begin to wear later in the matches.

The rest of the batting lineup features several familiar names, including Joe Root and Harry Brook. Root remains England’s most experienced batter and will once again be central to the team’s middle-order stability. Brook, despite an inconsistent Ashes series, continues to enjoy strong backing from the team management due to his aggressive batting style and match-winning potential.

Jacob Bethell has also retained his place in the squad after showing promise in recent appearances. Jamie Smith will continue as the primary wicketkeeper, while Matthew Fisher provides additional pace-bowling depth.

England’s squad announcement also included a historic coaching decision. Former England women’s star Sarah Taylor has been appointed as the fielding coach for the men’s Test team during the New Zealand series. She becomes the first woman to work with the senior England men’s side in such a role.

Taylor has been brought in on a short-term basis to replace Carl Hopkinson, who is currently working with Mumbai Indians in the IPL. Widely regarded as one of the best wicketkeepers and fielders in women’s cricket history, Taylor’s appointment has been praised as a progressive step by the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB).

The upcoming Test series against New Zealand is expected to be an important challenge for England as they look to rebuild confidence after their Ashes disappointment. The selectors’ decision to make seven changes reflects a clear intent to refresh the squad and reward domestic performances.

New Zealand, known for their disciplined bowling and resilient batting, are expected to provide strong competition. England will hope that the blend of youth and experience in the squad helps them start the home summer positively and lay the foundation for future Test success.

The full England squad for the first Test includes Ben Stokes (captain), Rehan Ahmed, Gus Atkinson, Sonny Baker, Shoaib Bashir, Jacob Bethell, Harry Brook, Ben Duckett, Matthew Fisher, Emilio Gay, James Rew, Ollie Robinson, Joe Root, Jamie Smith and Josh Tongue.

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Bangladesh have set a challenging target of 268 runs for Pakistan in the ongoing Mirpur Test match at the Shere Bangla National Stadium. Captain Najmul Hossain Shanto declared the second innings at 240/9, setting up an exciting final phase of the Test. With a 27-run first-innings lead already in hand, the hosts have put themselves in a strong position to push for victory. The match is finely balanced as Pakistan now face a demanding chase on a wearing pitch in Dhaka.

First Innings Summary

Pakistan were bowled out for 386 runs in their first innings after showing strong resistance from their top and middle order. In reply, Bangladesh posted a solid 413 runs, earning a crucial 27-run lead. Pakistan’s innings was highlighted by opener Azaan Awais, who played a brilliant knock of 103 runs, while Abdullah Fazal (60), Salman Agha (58), and Mohammad Rizwan (59) also contributed valuable runs. For Bangladesh, Mehidy Hasan Miraz was the star bowler, picking up a five-wicket haul. Taskin Ahmed and Taijul Islam supported well with two wickets each.

 Bangladesh Second Innings Performance

Bangladesh resumed their second innings at 152/3, with the intention of building a strong lead quickly. Captain Najmul Hossain Shanto once again led from the front, scoring 87 runs, adding to his first-innings century (101).

Mominul Haque also played a crucial knock of 56 runs, helping Bangladesh maintain momentum throughout the innings. Pakistan bowlers fought back strongly. Hasan Ali and Noman Ali were the standout performers, taking 3 wickets each, keeping Bangladesh under pressure during key phases of the innings.

Key Moments of the Day

One of the highlights of the day came early when Mushfiqur Rahim started with a boundary off Hasan Ali, playing a lucky outside edge that flew past the slip cordon. However, his innings ended soon after when he was dismissed for 22 runs, caught by Shan Masood.

Another dramatic moment came when Liton Das survived an LBW appeal after taking a review. The third umpire found a faint edge, overturning the on-field decision. Despite the reprieve, Liton could only manage 11 runs before getting out later.

Captain Shanto’s Bold Declaration

With Bangladesh looking to push for a result, captain Najmul Hossain Shanto declared the innings at 240/9, setting Pakistan a target of 268 runs. The decision came after Bangladesh ensured a strong enough lead, while also leaving enough time to bowl Pakistan out on a deteriorating pitch.

Match Situation

At the end of Bangladesh’s second innings, the match is delicately poised:

• Bangladesh lead: 267 runs (approx)
• Target for Pakistan: 268 runs
• Pitch: Slow and turning, favoring spinners
• Result: Still open, with both teams in contention

Pakistan will need a disciplined batting effort to chase down the target, while Bangladesh will rely heavily on their spin attack to finish the game.

Bowling Highlights

• Hasan Ali: 3 wickets
• Noman Ali: 3 wickets
• Mehidy Hasan Miraz: 5 wickets (first innings)
• Taskin Ahmed: 2 wickets
• Taijul Islam: 2 wickets

The bowlers from both sides have played a crucial role in keeping the match evenly balanced. The Mirpur Test is set for a thrilling finish as Bangladesh have set Pakistan a competitive 268-run target. With spin-friendly conditions and pressure building, the final innings promises a tense battle between bat and ball.

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Senior Players May Be Rested for Afghanistan Test – BCCI Looks at Workload Management

Bumrah, Gill Likely to Sit Out

Shubman Gill and Jasprit Bumrah are likely to be rested for India’s solitary red-ball game against Afghanistan starting June 6 in Mullanpur. The BCCI selection committee, in consultation with the medical team, is leaning towards giving senior players a break. The decision stems from a cramped international calendar and the IPL 2026 final scheduled just six days earlier.

Only Six Days Between IPL Final and Test

The IPL 2026 final ends on May 31. The one-off Test against Afghanistan begins on June 6. With just a five-to-six-day window, team management is seriously concerned about player fatigue and injury risks. According to sources, selectors will first assess how deep the IPL teams of regular Test players go into the playoffs before taking a final call.

No WTC Points at Stake

This solitary Test carries no World Test Championship points. Officials indicated that the priority is to keep star players fresh for the ODI series against Afghanistan and the subsequent England tour. “Fielding a premium bowler like Bumrah in such a match is an unnecessary risk,” a BCCI source said. The management believes workload management must override sentiment.

Young Faces May Get Mullanpur Chance

If senior players are rested, the Mullanpur Test could see multiple debuts. Selectors are closely watching domestic performers. India-A fast bowler Gurnoor Brar and left-arm spinner Manav Suthar are ahead in the race. All-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy has also improved his bowling significantly, increasing his chances. Harsh Dubey, Auqib Nabi, and Devdutt Padikkal are other names under consideration.

Packed June-July Schedule Ahead

The Indian team faces a relentless run from June onward. After the Afghanistan Test and ODI series, India plays a T20 series against Ireland. That is immediately followed by the England tour, featuring three T20s and three ODIs. From July 23, three T20 matches against Zimbabwe begin. Officials said squeezing Bumrah or Gill into the Afghanistan Test could backfire ahead of these high-intensity fixtures.

Afghanistan’s Test History Against India

Afghanistan began their Test journey against India in 2018 in Bengaluru. India won that match by an innings and 262 runs. Since then, Afghanistan have played 13 Tests, winning four, losing seven, and drawing two. However, they have never beaten India in any international format. In four ODIs across Asia Cups and World Cups, India have won three, with one tied in 2018. In T20 internationals, India have won eight of nine matches, with one no-result.

What Next for Selection Committee

The BCCI selection panel will announce the squad in the last week of May. The final call rests on medical advice and IPL playoff outcomes. For now, all signs point to a second-string Indian eleven taking the field in Mullanpur. As one official put it, “This is about protecting our core for what lies ahead, not about winning another home Test.” The England series remains the board’s immediate priority.

Australia has once again asserted its dominance in Test cricket, clinching a commanding 4-1 victory in the 2026 Ashes series against England. The series finale at Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) saw the hosts chase down a modest 160-run target on Day 5, sealing their fourth consecutive home Ashes triumph.

This Australia Ashes Win 2026 not only highlights the team's resilience but also marks emotional milestones, including Steve Smith's record-breaking feat and Usman Khawaja's heartfelt farewell.

The win comes at a pivotal time in cricket's evolving landscape, where Test format faces competition from T20 leagues. As global audiences tune in amid debates on preserving red-ball cricket, this series underscores Australia's unyielding grip on the urn, boosting national pride and setting the tone for upcoming World Test Championship cycles.

Dominant Chase and Key Performances

Australia's pursuit of 160 was steady despite early wobbles. Openers Jake Weatherald and Travis Head laid a solid foundation with a 50-plus stand, but England's Josh Tongue struck twice before lunch, leaving the hosts at 71/2. Post-lunch, wickets tumbled, yet Cameron Green (22) and Alex Carey (16) steered the side home unscathed.

England's second innings offered brief hope, with young Jacob Bethell smashing a maiden Test ton of 154, pushing the lead to 119 by Day 4 stumps. However, Beau Webster's spin heroics (3/51) dismantled the middle order, including trapping Harry Brook lbw for 42. Captain Ben Stokes' adductor injury further hampered the visitors, limiting them to just 40 more runs on Day 5 before folding at 342.

Expert view: Former Aussie captain Michael Clarke, in a simulated post-match analysis, noted, "Webster's switch to offspin was tactical genius. England's batting fragility exposed their over-reliance on stars like Root and Brook."

Steve Smith Surpasses Bradman: A Historic Milestone

Amid the victory, Steve Smith etched his name in history, surpassing Don Bradman's 5,028 runs against England with 5,097. His unbeaten 129 on Day 3, alongside Travis Head's explosive 163 (24 fours, one six), propelled Australia to 518/7, securing a 134-run lead. This Steve Smith Record cements his legacy as one of cricket's all-time greats.

Smith's achievement matters now as debates rage on modern vs. golden-era batsmen. In an era of aggressive play, his technical prowess offers lessons for aspiring players: focus on adaptability and mental fortitude.

Usman Khawaja's Emotional Farewell

The series' poignant moment was Usman Khawaja's Guard of Honour from England players in his final international outing. The veteran opener, batting post-lunch, scored just 6 before Tongue dismissed him. This Usman Khawaja Farewell symbolizes the end of an era for Australian cricket, with his consistent opening partnerships key to past successes.

Why it resonates: In a multicultural sport, Khawaja's journey as Australia's first Muslim Test player inspires diversity. Takeaway for fans: Celebrate inclusivity—support grassroots programs to nurture talents from varied backgrounds.

England's Struggles and Lessons Learned

England flickered briefly with Joe Root's 160 (his 41st Test century) on Day 2 and an unbeaten 154-run stand with Harry Brook (78) on Day 1, reaching 211/3 despite rain delays. Yet, unstable batting and injuries led to collapse, highlighting tactical gaps.

Analytical insight: England's aggressive 'Bazball' approach, effective in patches, faltered under pressure. Expert tip: Balance aggression with patience—practice spin sessions to counter turners like Webster.

This Australia Ashes Win 2026 reinforces the hosts' supremacy while exposing England's rebuild needs. For cricket enthusiasts, it's a reminder: Test cricket thrives on drama and records. As the urn stays Down Under, fans eagerly await the next chapter. 

Root’s classy 160 anchors England innings

England were bowled out for 384 in 97.3 overs, with Joe Root once again proving why he remains the backbone of England’s Test batting. The former captain compiled a superb 160 off 242 balls, hitting 15 fours and controlling the innings from the moment he walked in.

Coming in after early strikes from the Australian new-ball attack, Root rebuilt the innings with a mix of solid defence and fluent strokeplay. His partnership with Harry Brook was the turning point, helping England recover from 57 for 3 to a position of real strength.

Harry Brook misses century, middle order stumbles

Harry Brook continued his impressive Ashes form with a fine 84, but fell short of what would have been his 11th Test hundred. The right-hander played positively, reaching his half-century with confident strokes before edging Scott Boland to slip early on day two.

England’s middle order, including captain Ben Stokes who fell for a duck, could not fully capitalise on the strong platform laid by Root and Brook. Jamie Smith’s 46 and Will Jacks’ composed 27 added valuable runs, but soft dismissals at key stages denied England a total beyond 400.

Neser leads Australian fightback, tail collapses

Australia’s bowlers hit back strongly in the second session, led by seamer Michael Neser, who finished with impressive figures of 4 for 60. Neser broke the 52-run stand between Root and Jacks, removed Jacks for 27, and later produced a sharp caught-and-bowled to dismiss Root on 160 before cleaning up the tail.

Mitchell Starc and Scott Boland supported well with two wickets each, as England lost their last four wickets for just a handful of runs. The collapse, coming just when a 400-plus total looked certain, dragged Australia back into the contest and ensured the hosts were not completely batted out of the game.

Pitch conditions and what lies ahead

The Sydney pitch has already shown uneven bounce and some seam movement, especially as the ball has grown older, making shot selection crucial for both teams. For Australia’s openers, the initial hour against a motivated England attack could shape the course of this Test and the narrative of the series finale.

With England posting 384 and Tea taken early after their innings ended, the match is finely poised heading into the final sessions of day two. If Joe Root 160 turns out to be the defining innings of this Test, much will depend on how Australia’s top order responds under pressure on a challenging surface.