Clarke calls for changes in field restrictions

Melbourne:  Australian skipper Michael Clarke has said he would like to see five fielders outside the 30-yard circle instead of the current four during "powerplays" to allow bowlers more protection during field restrictions in One-Day International (ODI) cricket. Currently only four fielders can be placed outside the 30-yard circle during "powerplays" which helps batsmen to score at a brisk pace. The 2015 World Cup has seen a rise in match scores as new rules have facilitated batsmen to score freely. "I guess what I really loved growing up was I loved five fielders out rather than four fielders out. I think it gives the bowlers more of a chance. I think it brings spin a lot more into the game," he said.

 

Record attendance for the final at MCG  

Melbourne:   The World Cup came to an end in a carnival atmosphere as fans made up a raucous, record crowd for the final.  The 93,013 fans who packed into the famous arena on Sunday set an Australian attendance record, eclipsing the previous mark of 91,112 for a day of cricket set at the MCG in 2013. — Agencies