England and India finely poised as rain forces early stumps on day three
India lead England by 96 runs at the close of play on Sunday on a shortened Day three, due to rain at Headingley.
Proteas to host Australia and England in next World Test Championship cycle
The newly crowned world champions will play 14 Tests across six series in the upcoming WTC cycle, facing three teams at home and three away, as per the tournament's established format involving nine nations.
While the Proteas won't host any Test cricket during the 2025–26 season - a scheduling gap that's sure to raise eyebrows-they will enjoy blockbuster home series against arch-rivals Australia (3 Tests), England (3), and Bangladesh (2). On the road, they'll face subcontinental challenges in Pakistan, India, and Sri Lanka, with each away series consisting of two Tests.
The new cycle kicks off with Sri Lanka hosting Bangladesh from 17 June, while the spotlight quickly shifts to a five-Test epic between England and India at storied grounds like Lord's, The Oval, and Headingley.
Meanwhile, Australia - still stinging from their WTC final defeat-begin their campaign with a three-Test tour of the West Indies as they bid to reclaim the Frank Worrell Trophy and reassert dominance.
The WTC points system remains unchanged: 12 points for a win, 6 for a tie, and 4 for a draw. The standings will be determined by percentage of points won - meaning every result could make or break a team's push to the final.
With big names, high stakes, and historic rivalries on deck, the Proteas' route to a WTC title defence is set to deliver drama from the very first ball.
Sam Konstas eager to secure Test place on tour to West Indies
Australia batter Sam Konstas admits he let his emotions get the better of him in his first few Tests and insists he has become a much calmer player now.
England fight back against India fuelled by Ollie Pope's defiant century
Ollie Pope produced a determined century to steady as England rallied back against India on Day Two of the first Test at Headingley.
Ollie Pope's resilience keeps England afloat against India at close of Day 2
England ended Day 2 of the first Test against India at Headingley on 209 for 3, still trailing by 262 runs but buoyed by a magnificent unbeaten century from Ollie Pope.