Australia announced their T20I squad for their upcoming series against Scotland and England, with Perth Scorchers all-rounder Cooper Connolly earning his maiden T20I call-up. The post-David Warner era has begun for Australia, and a new opening pair will take the field for their white-ball series against Scotland and England. The Baggy Greens will play a three-match T20I series against Scotland in September. Australia will also play three T20Is and five ODIs against England later in the month.

The three T20Is against Scotland will be played on September 4, 6, and 7, and the England T20I series will begin on September 11.

In Warner’s place, Jake Fraser-McGurk has been included in the T20I squads for both series and in the ODI squad against England. Fraser-McGurk will look to establish himself as a long-term opening alternative for Australia.

Connolly has featured in 15 domestic T20s. He starred for Perth Scorchers in the Big Bash League 2022-23 final with his quick-fire 25* off 11 deliveries. In his Sheffield Shield debut, he scored 90 against Tasmania earlier this year.

Mitchell Marsh will lead the side in the absence of Pat Cummins, who has been rested. Cummins is currently involved in the ongoing Major League Cricket with the San Francisco Unicorns.

The experienced duo of Mitchell Starc and Glenn Maxwell will also miss the T20I series but will link up with the squad for the ODI series against England.

Matthew Short, who travelled with Australia’s T20 World Cup squad as a reserve player, will miss out on the T20I tour due to the birth of his first child.

“This tour gives us a great opportunity to bring in some new players in the absence of David Warner and Matthew Wade, as well as giving some senior players time to prepare for the home summer and a busy first half of next year. We are particularly pleased to offer Cooper his first opportunity in the T20 squad, having introduced the likes of Jake, Spencer, Xavier and Aaron in the past 12 months. They are exciting prospects to join the likes of Cameron Green, Nathan Ellis and Josh Inglis in the white-ball set-up,” national selector George Bailey said in a statement by Cricket Australia.

With the ICC Champions Trophy almost seven months away, Australia will try to find the right balance within the ODI team.

“With the Champions Trophy on our doorstep early next year, the white-ball series against Pakistan leading into the summer and a huge home Test series against India, there has been a lot of planning invested into these next six months. That has included gradual integration of new players into our white-ball squads who have earned international opportunities via excellent form in Big Bash or state cricket,” he added.

Australia T20I squad for Scotland and England: Mitchell Marsh (capt), Xavier Bartlett, Cooper Connolly, Tim David, Nathan Ellis, Jake Fraser-McGurk, Cameron Green, Aaron Hardie, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis (wk), Spencer Johnson, Marcus Stoinis, Adam Zampa

Australia ODI squad for England: Mitchell Marsh (capt), Sean Abbott, Alex Carey (wk), Cameron Green, Nathan Ellis, Jake Fraser-McGurk, Aaron Hardie, Josh Hazlewood, Josh Inglis (wk), Travis Head, Marnus Labuschagne, Glenn Maxwell, Matthew Short, Steven Smith, Mitchell Starc, Adam Zampa.

Hungary winger Roland Sallai dedicated Sunday’s 1-0 win over Scotland at Euro 2024 to Barnabas Varga who was stretchered off and taken to hospital after a sickening collision which will rule him out of the rest of the tournament. Varga collapsed to the pitch in Stuttgart and was struggling to move after chasing a long cross into the area as Scotland goalkeeper Angus Gunn came to collect the ball late in the second half. After a long delay, medics took the 29-year-old player from the pitch while sheets were draped around the stretcher in scenes that were initially reminiscent of Christian Eriksen‘s collapse after suffering cardiac arrest during Denmark’s Euro 2020 match against Finland.

barnabas varga injury #EURo2024 pic.twitter.com/yFNPdOexhJ

— troll football (@BlessinKab2823) June 23, 2024

Hungary captain Dominik Szoboszlai appeared to be in tears as he consoled his stricken teammate.

“It was terrible. It was a terrible moment to see Barnabas like that,” said Sallai. 

“Fortunately he is in a much better condition. He is probably going to have to go for a minor operation. 

“We cross our fingers that he can return quickly. Naturally it was a terrible incident. Of course we were fighting for him in the remaining 15-20 minutes. We wanted to win for him and we dedicate the win to him.”

Coach Marco Rossi said Varga suffered what appeared to be a facial fracture.

“It was a confusing situation. What I heard from the players is that Barny at that moment looked like he was not conscious so everyone was really worried about his condition and also worried about the fact that the doctors arrived a bit late we can say,” said Rossi.

“But of course they probably didn’t realise it was a dangerous situation. Fortunately we can say now that Barny is not under any kind of risk. 

“Probably he will be operated in the coming hours because he suffered a fracture here (pointing to his cheek/eye socket). If we go through the competition of course he will not be part of the team any more.”

Varga was immediately taken to hospital after the incident.

“The condition of Barnabas Varga is stable,” the Hungarian Football Federation (MLSZ) wrote on X. 

“The Hungarian national team player is currently in one of the hospitals in Stuttgart. We will inform you immediately if there is any news on his status.”

German broadcaster Magenta TV reported that Varga was conscious and talking when he arrived at hospital in Stuttgart.

Kevin Csoboth grabbed the winning goal in the 10th minute of stoppage time in the Group A game to keep alive the team’s hopes of making the last 16.

Kevin Csoboth scored in the 10th minute of added time after a frightening injury to Barnabas Varga as Hungary snatched a 1-0 win over Scotland to stay in the hunt for a place in the last 16 of Euro 2024. A sickening incident led to Hungary striker Varga being stretchered off in front of his visibly shocked team-mates in the second half, but Csoboth’s late winner kept them alive in the tournament. The Hungarian Football Federation said shortly after Sunday’s match that Varga was in a “stable condition” in a hospital in Stuttgart.

The episode brought back harrowing memories of Christian Eriksen‘s collapse at Euro 2020, when Denmark players shielded him from the cameras and those in the stadium after he suffered a cardiac arrest.

Csoboth dedicated the goal to Varga by holding up his stricken team-mate’s shirt during his celebration.

“Of course we were fighting for him in the remaining 15-20 minutes. We wanted to win for him and we dedicate the win to him,” said Hungary attacker Roland Sallai.

It was a bitter end to Scotland’s bid to reach the knockout phase of a major tournament for the first time as they were caught out pressing for a goal of their own right at the death.

“It was always a one-goal game,” said Scotland coach Steve Clarke. “We didn’t manage to get the goal, we opened up at the end to try and get it.”

Germany finished top of Group A after a 1-1 draw with Switzerland, who will go through as runners-up. Hungary must rely on other results if they are to advance as one of the best third-placed sides.

Scotland came last with just a point as their wait for a first European Championship win since 1996 goes on.

Clarke made one enforced change for Scotland as Scott McKenna replaced Kieran Tierney, who was stretchered off with a hamstring injury in the 1-1 draw with Switzerland.

English-born Callum Styles got the nod in Hungary’s midfield, coming in after shaking off an injury, with Endre Botka also making his first appearance of the tournament on the right side of a back three.

John McGinn revealed the team skipped their pre-match nap as thousands of Scotland supporters gathered outside the hotel, belting out songs in anticipation of what they hoped was a historic night.

Hungary arrived at the Euros with increased expectations after a 14-match unbeaten run between November 2022 and March of this year. They also beat England twice in the last UEFA Nations League, as well as Germany away.

But back-to-back defeats had punctured confidence and left Marco Rossi’s side needing to beat Scotland to keep alive their hopes of reaching the knockout rounds.

Cagey opening

Scotland goalkeeper Angus Gunn shovelled away a dipping drive from Bendeguz Bolla that bounced awkwardly in front of him, with Styles and then Willi Orban booked for cleaning out McGinn in a first half full of endeavour but limited in genuine chances.

Che Adams’ dangerous clearance though led to a Hungary free-kick 25 yards out, which Dominik Szoboszlai clipped towards the far post with Orban’s header skimming the top of the crossbar.

Szoboszlai, who shrugged off injury concerns after missing Hungary’s final team training session, hammered over a strike from distance, and it wasn’t until the 53rd minute that Scotland registered a shot.

Scotland defended doggedly as Jack Hendry blocked Sallai’s attempt when he shifted in from the left before Marton Dardai headed over from a cross.

A horrifying moment left Varga prone on his back in the Scotland area as he tried to head a free-kick goalwards while Gunn came flying out, with Anthony Ralston also crashing to the ground.

It resulted in a long stoppage as medics set Varga in the recovery position before a sheet was draped around him as he was carried off on a stretcher.

Scotland saw a penalty shout controversially turned down after Stuart Armstrong went down under a challenge from Orban, before the fourth official indicated 10 minutes of stoppage time.

That sparked a desperate quest from both teams to find the winning goal.

Gunn saved well from Andras Schafer and Szoboszlai, before Csoboth hit the post. Scotland defender Grant Hanley had a chance parried away by Peter Gulacsi, with Hungary racing up the other end and Csoboth steering home Sallai’s cutback to break Scottish hearts.

Scotland vs Hungary Live Streaming Euro 2024 Live Telecast: When And Where To Watch© AFP

The 2024 European Championship has been a breath of fresh air as 24 countries have been battling it out for the past week in an attempt to break through to the Round Of 16. The top two teams from each of the six groups will qualify to the next round with the four of the six best placed teams that finish third will also be guaranteed qualification. Hosts Germany, Spain and Portugal are the only three teams that have secured qualification as of now. Here are the qualification scenarios for each group heading into the final game-week

Group A: Germany vs Switzerland, Scotland vs Hungary

The Germans won their opening games against Scotland and Hungary which was enough for the hosts to guarantee their spot in the next round. In the history of the tournament, no team has ever failed to qualify for the knockout stages after getting four points which means Switzerland already have one foot in the Round of 16.

Scotland on the other hand have never qualified for the knockouts at the tournament and the side is aiming to achieve history if they were to win against Hungary in their final game. A win would take them to four points and although it would be difficult for them to overcome the six-goal difference that stands between them and the Swiss, A third place finish with four points could very likely see them qualify.

However a draw would see the side be in a very unlikely position to qualify depending on results from other groups.

Group B: Spain vs Albania, Italy vs Croatia

Spain has begun the tournament on the right note, securing qualification in the ‘Group of Death,’ in the second game week will see the side breathe a sigh of relief heading into their final fixture with Albania. Italy on the other hand will need to avoid defeat to secure their place in the next round. Croatia and Albania would both need to win to confirm qualification.

Group C: England vs Slovenia, Serbia vs Denmark

England must avoid defeat against Slovenia in their last group game to advance from Group C. A win will ensure Gareth Southgate’s team advances as group champions. If Denmark fails to beat Serbia, England will qualify regardless of the outcome against Slovenia.

Denmark and Slovenia will advance automatically as winners. Serbia will finish in the top two if they beat Denmark and Slovenia does not overcome England.

Group D: Netherlands vs Austria, France vs Poland

Poland became the first team to be eliminated from the race to the knockouts as they lost their opening two games against Netherlands and Austria.

Netherlands and France currently occupy the top two positions respectively after wins in their opening game followed by a draw against each other sees both teams at four points each and Austria not far behind with three points to their name.

If both France and the Dutch were to avoid defeat then they would guarantee qualification. However Austria will finish in the top two if they beat the Netherlands.

Group E: Ukraine v Belgium, Slovakia v Romania

This marks the first time in Euros history that all four teams have the identical number of points after two games. All four clubs know that a win on Wednesday will advance them to the round of 16, but no team can guarantee first place with a win.

A point will suffice for Belgium, who play Ukraine, and Romania, who face Slovakia.

If both games are drawn, goal difference will determine who finishes where (because all teams have the identical head-to-head points). Belgium and Romania will advance, with Slovakia aiming to be one of the top third-placed teams. Ukraine would be out.

Group F: Portugal vs Georgia, Czech Republic vs Turkey

Portugal have already qualified for the knockout stages of the tournament and they will be the table toppers if they were to avoid defeat against Georgia.

Both Czech Republic and Georgia will need to win if they want a shot at qualifying in the top two of the table. Georgia would also require Turkey to lose their game against Czech with the goal difference playing a part.

Austria, Slovakia, Slovenia and Albania are the top four best third placed teams in the tournament as of now.

Ahead of his side’s 2024 T20 World Cup Super Eights clash against Bangladesh, Australian all-rounder Glenn Maxwell revealed that some players from England, whose qualification to the next round was dependent on their arch-rivals’ win over Scotland, were panicking in their dressing room, booking and cancelling their flights while the match went down the wire. Australia will be taking on Bangladesh in their Super Eights clash at Antigua on Friday. Australia finished their Group B on top, with four wins in four matches. Bangladesh finished second in their Group C with three wins and a loss. Australia’s win over Scotland, who ended their campaign at third place with two wins, a loss, a no result and five points, helped England qualify for the Super Eights with five points on the basis of net-run-rate.

Defending champions England will be kickstarting their Super Eights campaign against West Indies at Saint Lucia on Thursday.

Speaking on ESPN’s ‘Around the Wicket’ programme, Maxwell said, “There was almost this interesting part where they dropped Tim David’s catch when there was three runs were required off three balls. When it gets down to the last two-three balls, who knows what is going to happen? Luckily enough, we got over the line and luckily enough, they got through. But I heard it was absolutely chaos. They were in the hotel and there was a fair bit of panic. Guys were booking flights and cancelling etc. It would have been fun being a fly on the wall watching that.”

Maxwell also revealed that he got some texts from England players ahead of the game, saying, “Yeah, just a couple of texts here and there (from England players). It was actually quite funny. There was a lot of chat out in the ground like ‘Are we doing this? Are we seriously going to let England back in?’ It was a pretty interesting game.”

Notably, before the game, Australian pacer Josh Hazlewood had made a statement during the pre-match press conference that it would be in everyone’s best interests if England is knocked out of the tournament early.

“In this tournament, you potentially come up against England at some stage again and…they are probably one of the top few teams on their day and we have had some real struggles against them in T20 cricket, so if we can get them out of the tournament that’s in our best interest as well as probably everyone else,” said Hazlewood.

Switzerland moved within touching distance of a place in the last 16 at Euro 2024 as Xherdan Shaqiri‘s stunning strike earned a 1-1 draw against Scotland on Wednesday. Murat Yakin’s side trailed to an early Scott McTominay goal that took a hefty deflection off Swiss defender Fabian Schar. But Shaqiri produced one of the goals of the tournament so far as the former Liverpool forward punished Anthony Ralston’s woeful backpass with a brilliant curler from 20 yards. With honours even in Cologne, the Swiss sit in second place in Group A with four points, two behind Germany after the hosts beat Hungary 2-0 earlier on Wednesday.

Switzerland, who defeated Hungary 3-1 in their opener, are not mathematically certain to advance to the knockout stages but they are in a strong position heading into their last game against Germany.

“Shaqiri proved tonight that he lives and breathes for moments like that,” Yakin said.

“He really deserves that magical moment. He did the only thing he could do with that wonderful strike.

“It’s still very open. We will do everything we can to make it out of the group.”

With the best four third-placed teams qualifying for the last 16, Scotland remain in the hunt to reach the knockout rounds of a major tournament for the first time.

Steve Clarke’s team restored their pride with a battling display that erased the bitter taste of a wretched 5-1 loss to Germany in the tournament opener.

Scotland have only one victory in their last 11 games, but a historic last 16 berth is still a possibility if they can improve their goal difference with a big win against Hungary.

“It was a good reaction to a disappointing night against Germany,” Clarke said. “Heart-breaking moment for Ralston but if it falls to any other Swiss player I don’t think they score.

“I believe if we get three points against Hungary, we’ll go to the next stage. We’re a good team and we’re still alive.”

Primal scream

After the humiliation of their meek surrender in Munich, Scotland’s fans were desperate for any sign of improvement, no matter how small, and winning their first corner of the tournament drew a primal scream from the Tartan Army.

That ear-splitting din set the tone for a thunderous Scotland start as they flew into tackles and pressed Switzerland into misplaced passes.

From one of those untimely Swiss mistakes, Scotland captain Andrew Robertson launched the sweeping break that gave them the lead in the 13th minute.

Callum McGregor‘s clever overlap gave him space inside the Swiss penalty area and he teed up McTominay for a shot that was heading straight at goalkeeper Yann Sommer until Schar needlessly stuck his foot out and diverted it into his own net.

If there was more than a touch of good fortune about Scotland’s opener, they failed to make the most of the momentum as Ralston gifted the Swiss their equaliser in the 26th minute.

Playing a suicidal backpass without looking, Ralston sent Shaqiri clean through on goal and the 32-year-old caressed a sublime strike into the top corner from the edge of the area.

Shaqiri’s majestic contribution rewarded Yakin’s decision to drop Kwadwo Duah, who had scored against Hungary but made way for the former Liverpool attacker’s seventh major tournament appearance, the most in his country’s history.

Shaqiri is the only player to score at the last three Euros and the last three World Cups.

Revitalised by Shaqiri’s moment of magic, Switzerland had the momentum and Dan Ndoye’s curler forced a fine save from Angus Gunn.

Gunn saved well from Shaqiri’s powerful strike and Ndoye squandered a golden opportunity to put Switzerland ahead when he scuffed wide with just the ‘keeper to beat.

Scotland lost Kieran Tierney to a serious looking injury, but almost snatched the lead with a Grant Hanley header that cannoned off the post from Robertson’s free-kick.

In a tense finale, Switzerland’s Zeki Amdouni headed inches wide, but both sides finished satisfied with a point.

Scotland vs Switzerland Live Streaming Euro 2024 Live Telecast: When And Where To Watch© AFP

File photo of Michael Vaughan.© X (formerly Twitter)