English international cricketer and all-rounder
The England Lions head coach has stepped away as he prepares to take up a head coach role with Sydney Thunder in the Big Bash League. The move ends his 23-month tenure with the Lions, during which he helped develop a new generation of players and oversee England’s white-ball work. England’s performance director praises his impact and notes plans to grow coaching opportunities.
England has abolished the midnight curfew for both Test and white-ball squads as a new leadership era under Joe Root and Stephen Fleming begins. The move aims to foster adult responsibility and a cohesive culture ahead of a three-Test series against Pakistan at Headingley.
The Hundred has undergone a branding revamp under private ownership, with teams rebranded to IPL-style identities. Attendance has stagnated this season despite record investment, and executives say bold branding is essential to attract new fans while navigating ongoing financial strains and market adjustments.
England has built a 195-run lead at Headingley as Jordan Cox leads a productive day with 73, Brook and Lawrence adding half-centuries, while Usman claims wickets for Pakistan. Sam Curran faces a groin injury and will miss the third Test.