Thu Nov 28 02:08:40 UTC 2024: ## Rangpur Triumphs in Thrilling Victory; England Set for New Zealand Test Series
**Abu Dhabi/Rangpur (Cricket Correspondent):** Rangpur Riders secured a convincing nine-wicket victory over an unnamed opponent in a thrilling Twenty20 match, needing only 23 runs from the final 26 balls to chase down their target. This follows a similar dominant performance by Abu Dhabi, who achieved an eight-wicket win with five balls to spare in a separate match on Day 1.
Meanwhile, the stage is set for a crucial Test series between England and New Zealand, vying for the Crowe-Thorpe Trophy. England, looking to rebound from a disappointing year, will be returning to familiar territory. However, their selection of Matthew Bethell for his Test debut has drawn criticism from Andrew Miller, UK editor of ESPNcricinfo, who suggests it risks alienating county players. The selection comes amidst other team news; New Zealand’s Tom Cox has been ruled out of the series with a fractured right thumb, while Nathan Smith is poised to make his Test debut after a non-traditional route to the national team.
First Piper 