Rayudu not worried about lack of match practice

CHENNAI: Ambati Rayudu’s retirement from first-class cricket before the start of the Ranji season would leave him short of match practice ahead of twin ODI series against Australia and New Zealand but the Hyderabad cricketer is unfazed. “The only thought process (to retire from first class cricket) was to preserve my body. Anyway there is a huge difference between red ball cricket and white ball cricket . You can compensate by practising and playing other games,” he said.

Wanted Kumble to stay on as coach: Laxman

VISAKHAPATNAM: BCCI’S Cricket Advisory Committee member and batting legend VVS Laxman

Friday said the their panel wanted Anil Kumble to continue as India’s coach but the former captain was bent on quitting after his fallout with skipper Virat Kohli last year. “We at the CAC thought Anil should continue as coach but he thought the right decision was to quit and move ahead. It left a bitter taste in the mouth,”

Laxman said at the India Today South Conclave’ here.

Incoming PCB official hopeful of Australia visit

ISLAMABAD: Incoming Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) managing director Wasim Khan has said he hopes Australia will come to the country to play at least part of a one-day series currently scheduled to take place in the United Arab Emirates in March.