Cricket news round-up – 17 August: Shastri re-appointed India coach, rain hits Lord’s Test, New Zealand nose ahead at Galle

Following much anticipation, Ravi Shastri has been re-appointed as Indian coach. Elsewhere, England took three wickets at Lord’s before rain washed out over two sessions, BJ Watling pushed New Zealand closer to a safety zone at Galle, and all eight Vitality Blast matches were washed out without a ball being bowled.

Shastri to continue

Following much deliberation, a three-member committee consisting of Shanta Rangaswamy, Kapil Dev, and Anshuman Gaekwad unanimously re-appointed Ravi Shastri as Indian coach. Shastri, who has been working as the Indian coach since after the 2017 Champions Trophy, will continue till the 2021 World T20.

Tom Moody, Mike Hesson, Lalchand Rajput, and Robin Singh were Shastri’s only competitors for the post following Phil Simmons’ withdrawal earlier in the day.

England strike thrice at Lord’s

Having scored 258 in the first innings, England reduced Australia to 80/4 after incessant rain washed out more than two sessions. England now have two days to force a result. However, given that this is now a four-day Test, Australia still have to score another 29 to avoid the follow-on.

Cameron Bancroft batted grittily for his 13 before he became Jofra Archer’s first Test wicket. At the other end, Chris Woakes removed Usman Khawaja (36) four balls later, while Stuart Broad (2/26) got Travis Head (7). Steven Smith and Matthew Wade will resume batting once play starts.

New Zealand nose ahead

New Zealand finished Day 3 at Galle on 195/7 on a deteriorating pitch, 176 ahead on the second innings. BJ Watling (63*) and William Somerville are at the crease.

Earlier, Niroshan Dickwella (61) and Suranga Lakmal (40) helped Sri Lanka add 40 (and secure an 18-run lead) for their last 3 wickets on the third morning.

Dhananjaya de Silva (2/16) then got Jeet Raval early, while Lasith Embuldeniya (4/71) took out both Kane Williamson and Ross Taylor in quick succession. At this stage New Zealand were 25/3.

Tom Latham (45) and Henry Nicholls (26) then staged a revival of sorts before New Zealand slumped to 124/6. However, Watling stayed put, adding 54 with Tim Southee (23) and an unbroken 17 with Somerville.

No play in Vitality Blast

Eight Vitality Blast matches were scheduled for the night, at Old Trafford, Northampton, Trent Bridge, Taunton, Headingley, Chelmsford, Rose Bowl, and Canterbury. Every single one was washed out.