The Cricket Bulletin: Major Talking Points

England level the series, beat India women in second T20I

England women won the second match of the ongoing T20I series against India by 26 runs to level the series 1-1. Batting first, England posted a competitive 168/5, thanks to a blasting unbeaten 39 off 13 balls by Freya Kemp. India’s Shree Charani was the pick of the bowlers, claiming 3/25.

During the chase, India’s response unravelled after opener Smriti Mandhana fell for 32. Yastika Bhatia top-scored with 33 but struggled for momentum. She was eventually retired out in the 15th over. Although India’s skipper Harmanpreet Kaur added a quick 28, but Charlie Dean (2/20) and Freya Kemp (2/15) choked the runs. That triggered a lower-order collapse for the visitors as they finished at 142/9. On Tuesday the series decider will take place at Taunton.

ICC appoints new Independent Director for a minimum of three years

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has appointed Dr Ros Rivaz as an Independent Director for a period of three years. In a statement, the ICC said, “Throughout her career, Dr Rivaz has been an active and engaged Board member, undertaking site visits and stakeholder interactions across government, commercial, and community sectors. Her deep understanding of governance, corporate strategy, and operational effectiveness is complemented by her commitment to diversity and inclusion, making her a strong addition to the ICC Board.”

Dr Rivaz currently serves as the Chair of Anglian Water and UK Companies House, while also holding independent director positions at Aperam SA and Victrex plc. Apart from these, she has been active in community and educational initiatives.

England coach highlights ‘significant progress’ ahead of Test series against New Zealand

Despite the recent performances in their ICC World Test Championship fixtures, England coach Brendon McCullum is confident of their return. England men’s team is all set for the upcoming home series against New Zealand after their debacle against Australia (4-1). After 10 matches in the ongoing 2025/27 cycle of the ICC WTC, England are placed seventh in the standings at present.

“We’ve made some significant progress in the last four years but the job isn’t done. I think our best days are in front of us as a cricket side. I think a lot of stuff we have developed over the last four years will allow us to shape our side as we move forward.” McCullum told Sky Sports, “We play a strong style but sometimes when we get ourselves in winning situations we don’t necessarily do what needs to be done. We need to navigate through those moments with the necessary calm, poise and tactical awareness to ensure you close games out.”