Johnny Grave’s Leadership Background

Grave brings nearly 25 years of leadership experience in international cricket. Before joining MLC, he served as the CEO of Cricket West Indies (CWI) for seven years until October 2024. During his tenure, he oversaw three World Cups hosted in the West Indies and played a key role in organizing the 2024 Men’s T20 World Cup, co-hosted with the United States.

Prior to his role at CWI, Grave was the Commercial Director at the Professional Cricketers’ Association in England for a decade.

Grave’s Role at Major League Cricket

In his new position, Grave will be responsible for overseeing MLC’s operations, including league expansion, team development, and strategic partnerships. The MLC franchise T20 competition, which launched in 2023, is set to expand in the coming years.

ALSO READ: Jos Buttler Rejects Calls for England to Boycott Afghanistan Match

MLC Leadership’s Confidence in Grave

Venky Harinarayan, a board member of MLC, expressed strong confidence in Grave’s leadership, stating:

Johnny Grave’s Vision for MLC

Grave is excited about his new role, stating:

MLC’s Future Expansion

Grave’s appointment comes ahead of MLC’s third season as the league plans further expansion into new cities across the US market.

The 2025 MLC season is set to kick off in June, marking another step toward strengthening cricket’s presence in America.

Why Is There a Call for Boycott?

A cross-party letter, signed by nearly 200 UK politicians, was sent to the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB), urging them to refuse to play against Afghanistan. This move comes in response to the Taliban regime’s crackdown on women’s rights, including a ban on female participation in sports since their return to power in 2021.

Jos Buttler’s Stand on the Issue

Speaking on the matter for the first time, Jos Buttler said:

ALSO READ: England Cricket Star James Vince Opens Up on Moving to Dubai After Terrifying Home Attacks

Government and Cricket Authorities’ Responses

Calls for a boycott intensified in January when the cross-party letter was sent. Labour MP Tonia Antoniazzi urged England’s players to use their influence to bring about change. However, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer stated that the UK government was discussing the issue with international counterparts. Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy opposed the boycott, stating:

“Boycotts are counterproductive. They deny sports fans the opportunity they love and unfairly penalize athletes who have worked extremely hard to reach the top.”

ICC’s Stance on Afghanistan’s Participation

The International Cricket Council (ICC) requires full member nations to have women’s cricket teams and development structures in place. However, Afghanistan’s men’s team has continued to compete in ICC events without facing sanctions.

The ICC believes in using cricket as a tool for change rather than punishing players for government policies. However, ECB chief executive Richard Gould urged the ICC to take stronger action, calling the situation in Afghanistan “gender apartheid.” While he stopped short of demanding an immediate boycott, he insisted the ICC should place an “immediate condition” on Afghanistan’s full membership to ensure women’s cricket is supported by a specific deadline.

Buttler: ‘I’m Led by the Experts’

England, who faced Afghanistan in the 2022 T20 World Cup and the 2023 ODI World Cup, are currently in India for a white-ball tour starting Wednesday. They are set to play Afghanistan in Lahore on 26 February, with the Champions Trophy beginning on 19 February in Pakistan and Dubai.

This ongoing debate continues to highlight the intersection of sports and politics, with many calling for stronger accountability measures from the ICC regarding Afghanistan’s stance on women’s cricket.

James Vince, who played a key role in England’s 2019 Cricket World Cup-winning squad, recently stepped down as Hampshire captain as he prepared to move abroad. While he will no longer participate in the County Championship, he will continue as captain in the T20 Blast.

A Difficult Decision for Family Safety

The 33-year-old revealed that after two distressing incidents at his home, his family needed a change. Now based in Dubai, Vince is no longer a UK resident, which impacts his ability to play cricket in England. However, the decision was primarily based on ensuring his family’s safety and well-being.

ALSO READ: Australia Retain Women’s Ashes as England Fall Short in First T20 at Sydney Cricket Ground

“The first step was deciding as a family what our future looked like after the attacks,” James Vince told the Telegraph. “We wanted to get back to living in a home and regain some normality after spending months in hotels.”

He continued: “We made it through the summer and were in the process of selling our house, which has now been completed. We decided to spend the winter traveling, starting with an extended stay in Dubai. The safety aspect was a big attraction for us.”

Why Dubai? A Safe Haven for James Vince’s Family

James Vince admitted that he had been considering Dubai for a while, especially after speaking with people who had already relocated there.

“We knew a few people who had moved over, so we explored their lifestyle, schools, and community options,” he explained. “The opportunities for the kids, the education system, and the warm weather all made Dubai appealing. So, we thought—why not?”

“We just didn’t feel comfortable settling in the UK for a while, so we decided to give Dubai a try.”

Unanswered Questions About the Attacks

Reflecting on the frightening incidents, Vince admitted that they still do not know why their home was targeted.

“We still don’t know what it was about, and we probably never will. But we feel fairly reassured that it wasn’t specifically intended for us,” he shared. “Nothing has happened since, which is a relief.”

The cricketer also spoke about how the events impacted his young children. “Traveling and staying in hotels helped them forget about it to a degree, but it has been tough. Getting them to sleep in their own beds again has been a challenge.”

Now, Vince hopes that settling in Dubai will bring stability. “We just want to get this place sorted, have the kids live in a home again, and return to normal life. It’s a family decision, and I’m fitting cricket around that.”

England’s Hopes of Regaining the Ashes Ended

Heather Knight’s England side can still draw the series with wins in the final two T20 matches and the one-off Test, but they are now mathematically unable to reclaim the trophy after another disappointing defeat.

England, who were whitewashed 3-0 in the preceding ODI series, were bowled out for 141 in 16 overs while chasing 199—a total that would have equaled the highest successful chase in Women’s T20 history. Sophia Dunkley’s explosive 59 off 30 balls provided some resistance, but it was not enough.

Dunkley’s Dismissal Proves Costly

England’s chase suffered a major setback when Dunkley was bowled by Tahlia McGrath in the 12th over, leaving 89 runs still required. England had already lost openers Maia Bouchier and Danni Wyatt-Hodge for ducks, further denting their hopes.

Australia posted an imposing 198-7, with Beth Mooney (75 off 51) starring yet again, scoring her 24th T20 international fifty after being dropped early by Amy Jones.

ALSO READ: Two Bowlers Suspended in Unusual Big Bash League Incident

Sloppy Fielding and Expensive Bowling Hurt England

England were poor in the field, missing several chances. Lauren Bell dropped debutant Georgia Voll, while Charlie Dean and Nat Sciver-Brunt failed to communicate on another crucial catch. Sophie Ecclestone (2-26 from four overs) was the only standout bowler, dismissing both McGrath (26 off 9) and Grace Harris (14 off 8). However, all other English bowlers conceded at eight runs per over or more.

Series Continues in Canberra and Adelaide Before Melbourne Test

The series resumes in Canberra on Thursday, followed by the final T20 in Adelaide on Saturday. The pink-ball Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground from January 30 will conclude the series.

With Australia already securing the Ashes, England now face big decisions regarding their future. The positions of captain Heather Knight and head coach Jon Lewis may come under review as the team looks to rebuild.

Dunkley’s Brilliant Knock in Vain

Needing to match their record T20 chase of 199 (vs India, 2018), England got off to a terrible start. Bouchier fell for a duck after just two balls, while Wyatt-Hodge was caught behind on her first delivery. Megan Schutt and Kim Garth inflicted early damage, leaving England in deep trouble.

Dunkley and Sciver-Brunt (20 off 12) countered aggressively, adding 44 runs in just 18 balls, but Sciver-Brunt’s dismissal to Alana King’s first ball derailed England’s hopes. Dunkley powered to a 24-ball fifty, but after her departure, England collapsed, losing their last six wickets for just 31 runs.

Georgia Wareham (3-25) ripped through the middle order, ensuring Australia’s comfortable win.

Mooney Leads Australia’s Dominant Batting Performance

Earlier in the match, Mooney’s classy 75 anchored Australia’s innings, with strong support from Voll, McGrath, and Phoebe Litchfield. Litchfield’s 25 off 20 included a stunning switch-hit six, showcasing Australia’s aggressive intent.

With Alyssa Healy sidelined due to a foot injury, Voll was handed her T20I debut. Healy’s fitness remains uncertain, but with the Ashes secured, Australia may take a cautious approach with their captain.

Women’s Ashes – Results & Fixtures

ODI Series:

• First ODI (Jan 11) – Australia won by 4 wickets
• Second ODI (Jan 13) – Australia won by 21 runs
• Third ODI (Jan 16) – Australia won by 86 runs

T20 Series:

• First T20I (Jan 20) – Australia won by 57 runs
• Second T20I (Jan 23, 8:40 AM) – Canberra
• Third T20I (Jan 25, 8:10 AM) – Adelaide

Test Match:

• Jan 30 – Feb 2 (3:30 AM) – Melbourne Cricket Ground

With the Ashes retained, Australia will now focus on sealing an outright series win, while England look to salvage pride in the remaining matches. Can England bounce back, or will Australia continue their dominance?

What Happened in the Big Bash League (BBL) Match?

Playing at Docklands Stadium, Brisbane Heat openers Nathan McSweeney and Jack Wood made a slow start, scoring 31-0 in the first four overs. However, they picked up the pace, with Matt Renshaw continuing the momentum after McSweeney’s dismissal in the eighth over.

With the score at 103-1 after 11 overs, Renegades captain Will Sutherland came in for his second spell. But Renshaw immediately put him under pressure, smashing three consecutive sixes over midwicket, square leg, and covers.

Suspension No. 1: Will Sutherland

ALSO READ: Shakib Al Hasan in Trouble: Arrest Warrant Issued Against Bangladesh Cricket Star

After the third six, the umpire summoned Sutherland, pointing to the protected area of the wicket—a region where bowlers are not allowed to step during their follow-through. As a result, Sutherland was removed from the attack, and Josh Brown completed the over.

Suspension No. 2: Fergus O’Neill

Just four overs later, the same incident happened again—this time with Fergus O’Neill. A stunned Sutherland covered his face in disbelief. He was also caught on the stump mic exclaiming, “It’s a T20 game!”—seemingly frustrated that such strict rules applied in a short-format match.

What Do the Laws Say?

According to the Big Bash League 2024/25 Playing Conditions, the protected area is defined under clause 41.11. It includes a rectangle extending 5 feet (1.52 meters) in front of the popping creases and 1 foot (30.48 cm) from the stumps’ center lines.

While Sutherland may have argued that these rules should not apply in T20 cricket, clause 41.13.1 states that a bowler cannot enter the protected area in his follow-through without a valid reason, even if the ball is delivered.

Penalties for Violating the Rule

• A bowler receives two warnings before being suspended from bowling.
• As per clause 41.13.4.1, the umpire must immediately suspend the bowler on the third violation.
• The over is completed by another bowler who did not bowl the previous or next over.

Though it’s unclear exactly when the first two warnings were given, TV commentator Mark Howard noted that Sutherland had already received a warning in the first over.

Match Outcome

Brisbane Heat posted a solid total of 196-4. At the time of writing, the Melbourne Renegades were 129-4 in 11.4 overs.

Stay updated for more on this unusual Big Bash League incident.

Why Was the Arrest Warrant Issued?

According to Mohammed Shahibur Rahman from IFIC Bank, Shakib was previously summoned to the court but failed to appear. Due to his absence, the court has now issued a warrant for his arrest.

Shakib Al Hasan’s Political Ties

Shakib was a lawmaker from the party of former Bangladesh leader Sheikh Hasina. Hasina, who ruled Bangladesh for years, was overthrown in a revolution and fled to India by helicopter in August 2024.

Due to his ties with Hasina’s party, Shakib became a target of public anger. He is among several people being investigated for a deadly police crackdown on protesters during the uprising. However, he has not been charged yet.

ALSO READ: Cricketer Rinku Singh to Marry Samajwadi Party MP Priya Saroj

Shakib Al Hasan’s Whereabouts

At the time of Hasina’s government collapse, Shakib Al Hasan was playing in a domestic Twenty20 cricket league in Canada. Since then, he has not returned to Bangladesh.

Shakib’s Cricket Career and Exclusion from Champions Trophy

The left-arm all-rounder has an impressive record, playing 71 Test matches, 247 One-Day Internationals (ODIs), and 129 T20 matches for Bangladesh. He has taken a total of 712 wickets in international cricket.

Despite his achievements, Shakib was not included in Bangladesh’s 15-man squad for the upcoming Champions Trophy 2025, set to take place in Pakistan and Dubai next month.

New Captain for Bangladesh in Champions Trophy

With Shakib out, Najmul Hossain Shanto will lead the team in the tournament. Bangladesh is placed in Group A, alongside India, Pakistan, and New Zealand.

Stay tuned for more updates on Shakib Al Hasan’s legal troubles and cricket career.

Rinku Singh & Priya Saroj’s Wedding Plans

Rinku Singh, the star cricketer from Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), is set to tie the knot with Samajwadi Party (SP) MP Priya Saroj. The news, which started trending on social media, was officially confirmed by Toofani Saroj on Saturday.

However, he clarified that there had been no engagement (‘sagai’) as reported in the media.

ALSO READ: Why Did Rishabh Pant Decline Delhi Captaincy?

Official Statement from Toofani Saroj

“We have spoken to Rinku Singh’s father. Our children have expressed their desire to marry and have sought our permission. There is no problem from our side. Initial discussions have taken place,” he told reporters in Jaunpur.

He also mentioned that the wedding date and venue would be finalized after discussions with Rinku Singh’s family.

Marriage to Take Place After February 13

Currently, Rinku is busy with T20 preparations, while Priya Saroj is occupied with the upcoming Budget Session of Parliament. Saroj confirmed that the engagement ritual would take place only after February 13, when the Lok Sabha session ends.

Priya Saroj & Rinku Singh’s Relationship

Priya Saroj, MP from Machli Shahar LS constituency, and Rinku Singh have known each other for a long time.

“They decided to marry only with their parents’ permission,” Toofani Saroj added.

The wedding is highly anticipated, and further details will be shared soon!

Rishabh Pant’s Decision to Decline Captaincy

Rishabh Pant, who is set to play Ranji Trophy for the first time since 2018, was offered the captaincy but chose to decline. The Indian wicketkeeper-batsman, who has previously captained India against South Africa and has served as vice-captain, informed the DDCA selection committee, led by Gursharan Singh, that Badoni should continue as captain.

A source revealed, “Pant believed that stepping in as captain just because of his international experience and IPL leadership might disrupt the team’s balance. Instead, he expressed full confidence in Badoni and head coach Sarandeep Singh to lead the team successfully.”

Delhi is currently in joint second place in the Elite Group D of the Ranji Trophy with 19 points.

Role Reversal in IPL 2024

Interestingly, there will be a role reversal in the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024. Pant is expected to lead Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), where Badoni is a retained player. However, the franchise has not yet officially announced its captain.

Virat Kohli’s Fitness Concerns

ALSO READ: The Konstas Effect: Cricket Fan’s Car Crash Goes Viral, Gets Rewarded

Meanwhile, Virat Kohli is reportedly not fully fit. DDCA president Rohan Jaitley may speak with him about his participation, as the BCCI has mandated that international players must play domestic cricket when not on national duty or recovering from injury. Jaitley has not yet responded to inquiries regarding this matter.

Jadeja and KL Rahul’s Status Uncertain

There is also no official update on the participation of Ravindra Jadeja and KL Rahul in the upcoming Ranji Trophy matches. However, both are expected to feature in the next round of Ranji games.

With Pant opting out of captaincy and Kohli’s fitness under scrutiny, Delhi’s squad announcement remains a highly anticipated one. Stay tuned for further updates on team selections and player participation!

The Viral Car Crash Moment

In the footage, Konstas is seen walking across the camera when a four-wheel drive suddenly pulls into the parking lot. The driver rushes out, eager to meet the young cricketer, only to sprint back in panic after realizing he forgot to engage the handbrake. In his haste, he slips and falls, failing to reach his car before it crashes into another vehicle.

A Sydney Thunder representative told AAP that the video had been viewed millions of times online, quickly making it one of the most talked-about moments in cricket.

Konstas Reacts to the Incident

Ahead of Friday’s clash with the Sydney Sixers, Konstas was shown the viral clip before his final match with the Sydney Thunder. He is set to depart for Australia’s Test tour of Sri Lanka, where he will attend a training camp in the UAE before playing two Tests in Galle.

“Hopefully I’ll see him later today and sign some stuff,” Konstas said. “I didn’t even know he was chasing me. It wasn’t funny, but hopefully he’s all good. But yeah, it went a bit viral.”

ALSO READ: Big Bash League Match Halted as Fire Erupts at The Gabba

Konstas’ Meteoric Rise in Cricket

The 19-year-old has experienced a remarkable rise in international cricket, going from a relative unknown to a cricket sensation in just a few months.

• In October, he scored twin centuries for NSW.
• He made his Test debut in Australia’s historic series win over India.
• He now opens the batting for Sydney Thunder alongside David Warner.

With his explosive batting skills and a growing fanbase, Konstas has quickly become a household name in the cricket world.

Handling Criticism and the Ashes Challenge

As fame grows, so does scrutiny. Sections of the British media have been skeptical, with The Guardian’s Barney Ronay labeling Konstas “gimmicky” and comparing him to breakdancer Rachael Gunn (Raygun).

Cricket legend David Warner, known for embracing criticism, had some advice for the young star:
“I always found that going with them [critics] and enjoying it is the right way. At the end of the day, it makes you perform better. They want you to fail, but by performing, you shut them up.”

With the Ashes series next summer, Konstas is eyeing the chance to open the batting for Australia, while Warner is eager to watch the Barmy Army in action from the commentary box.

“It’ll be exciting for him to be part of that Ashes squad, permitting form,” Warner added.

The incident occurred at the end of the fourth over of Hobart’s innings, when a fire broke out in an entertainment area designated for a DJ setup. Umpires swiftly halted play while Gabba staff rushed to contain the blaze, using a fire extinguisher and blanket to bring the situation under control.

According to Fox Sports journalist Eloise Sohier, several fans at the sold-out Gabba had to be evacuated from the affected area. The DJ booth, positioned directly above one of the scoreboards, sent smoke billowing through the stands, adding to the tense atmosphere.

Hobart Hurricanes Secure Thrilling Victory

Despite the interruption, Hobart Hurricanes clinched a thrilling five-wicket win, successfully chasing down Brisbane Heat’s total of 6-201. With scores level and just one ball remaining, Matthew Wade smashed a full toss from Xavier Bartlett for six, sealing a spectacular victory for the visitors.

ALSO READ: R Ashwin Reveals Why He Retired and His Thoughts on Farewell Matches

The Gabba’s History of Unusual Stoppages

This isn’t the first time The Gabba has witnessed unexpected interruptions during major sporting events.

• In March 2023, an AFL match between the Brisbane Lions and Melbourne Demons was halted due to a power outage, plunging the stadium into darkness.
• In 2015, another fire broke out in the stands during half-time of a Brisbane Lions vs. Collingwood match.

While The Gabba remains one of Australia’s premier sporting venues, its history of unforeseen disruptions continues to add to its unique legacy.