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Dawid Malan: England batter retires from international cricket

Ben Miller
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Dawid Malan: England batter retires from international cricket

Former World number one T20I batter Dawid Malan has announced his retirement from international cricket at the age of 36.

Left-hander Malan played 114 times across all formats for England, scoring eight centuries and 31 fifties at an average of almost 38 runs.

A debutant T20I man of the match on his debut in 2017, Malan scored his first Test century against Australia in the Ashes in December 2017 and became the fastest batter to 1,000 runs in the international white-ball format in March 2021, reaching the total in 24 innings.

Malan was part of the winning England squad who won the 2022 T20 World Cup but missed the semi-final and final through an injury he sustained during their final group-stage match.

Malan: Test cricket ‘something else’

Malan last played for England at the World Cup 2023, scoring 87 off 74 balls against the Netherlands and 50 from 64 deliveries against Australia.

“I took all three formats extremely seriously but the intensity of Test cricket was something else: five days plus the days building up,” Malan told former England captain Mike Atherton in The Times on the day his retirement became public.

“I’m a big trainer; I love hitting lots of balls and I’d train hard in the build-up, and then the days were long and intense.

“You can’t switch off. I found it very mentally draining, especially the long Test series that I played, where my performances dropped off from the third or fourth Test onwards.”

Malan: T20 ‘exceeded expectations’

“Test cricket was always the pinnacle for me growing up,” added Malan. “At times I played well but, in between, I just wasn’t good enough or consistent enough, which was disappointing because I felt I was a better player than that.

“Then again, I exceeded all expectations of myself in white-ball formats.”

Malan played for Middlesex from 2006 until 2019 after arriving in the county from South Africa, where his family had moved when he was seven, with “no family here, no friends, nothing”.

Yorkshire signed Malan in 2020, and he began to move into coaching at the club earlier this year.

Next steps on temporary accommodation outlined in Manchester report

Helen Greaney
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Next steps on temporary accommodation outlined in Manchester report

An update report on homelessness in Manchester outlines how progress is being made.

The report, which will be considered by the Council’s Communities and Equalities Scrutiny Committee when it meets next week, records that the number of households in temporary accommodation has reduced slightly – from a peak of 3,316 households in December 2022 to 2,826 at the end of June 2024.

This reduction is in contrast to rising numbers nationally, with the number of households in temporary accommodation nationwide increasing by more than 13% between September 2022 and December 2023.

But the most dramatic reductions have been in the use of B&B-type accommodation for families, something which the council deemed unacceptable and committed to all but eradicate. From a peak of 227 families in B&Bs in February 2023, this had been reduced to just seven families by the end of June this year.

In February 2023, 131 of those families had been in B&B accommodation for more than six weeks. In June 2024 the figure was zero. This is in stark contrast to the national picture where the number of households in B&B jumped by 63.4% between September 2022 and December 2023.

With Manchester significantly and sustainably reducing B&B usage – alongside a continuing emphasis on homelessness prevention – the focus will now shift to reducing   temporary accommodation placements outside the Manchester City Council area.

Pressure on temporary accommodation caused by demand relative to supply means that people are sometimes temporarily accommodated in neighbouring Greater Manchester boroughs. It is recognised that such out-of-area placements are far from ideal and can impact on the education, health and wider welfare of households.

While there has been a small reduction in the number of households temporarily accommodated in other parts of Greater Manchester from 1,205 in December 2022 to 1,108 in June 2024 this is still too many.

Work is underway to bring forward an increased supply of suitable alternative temporary accommodation within the city, and especially in central and south Manchester to address an historic imbalance where for reasons of cost such accommodation has tended to be concentrated in the north of the city.

For example, the Council plans to enter into longer term (10 year plus) leases for temporary accommodation properties within the Manchester City Council area, with higher rental levels paid in south and central Manchester. It is anticipated that hundreds of properties will be secured through this approach to increase supply.

The Council will look to support opportunities to develop self-contained temporary accommodation for families.

For single homeless people, the goal is to increase the amount of supported temporary accommodation in the south of Manchester. Many of those presenting as homeless are from the south of the city but they are currently having to move elsewhere, away from support networks.

The Council is working to identify surplus or disused accommodation it owns which can be converted for use as temporary accommodation.

Examples include:

  • A disused children’s home in central Manchester which will be converted into 24 self-contained units for people who are homeless at the point they are being discharged from hospital.
  • A former Sure Start centre in north Manchester which will be turned into a 16-bedspace hostel.
  • A former probation office in Wythenshawe which is being brought back into use as 19-bed temporary accommodation hostel for homeless people.

From 2025, an extra 42 one-bed flats will also be available in Ardwick (24), Whalley Range (12) and other parts of the city to be identified (6) funded through the Government’s Single Homelessness Accommodation Programme.

Caritas House in Newton Heath, owned by charity Caritas Salford, will also bring another 16 units into use from this autumn.

In addition, a new Empty Homes Team – to be run by the homelessness service – is being established to help bring long term empty homes back into use, including potentially as temporary accommodation.

Deputy council leader Joanna Midgley said: “It is encouraging that progress continues to be made in tackling homelessness in Manchester and that there is a clear sense of direction in our efforts, alongside those of other members of the city’s homelessness partnership.

“But there are still too many people without a home to call their own and we do not underestimate the scale of the continuing challenge.”

Public consultation opens for Manchester’s former Central Retail Park

Helen Greaney
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Public consultation opens for Manchester’s former Central Retail Park

A public consultation has opened regarding emerging plans for Central Retail Park.

The consultation by Manchester City Council and the Government Property Agency (GPA) will gather feedback from local residents, businesses and other stakeholders that will help guide proposals to create a new government digital campus – delivered by the GPA – and a new city centre park space, delivered by the council.

The council agreed an updated Strategic Regeneration Framework (SRF) for the land in March 2023 that set out the high-level development principles for the site: to create low carbon commercial office space and high-quality, accessible green space to support continued economic growth in this part of Manchester’s city centre.

New Manchester Digital Campus

The Government Property Agency (GPA) exchanged contracts to acquire five acres of the former Central Retail Park in Ancoats from the city council in May this year with a view to constructing a state-of-the-art government digital campus.

This new office complex in the city will bring together a number of Civil Service departments with a focus around digital skills.

Once complete, the campus will be home to around 7,000 civil servants, creating significant opportunities for employment and wider economic development.

New City Centre Park

The new park space is being designed in collaboration with landscape architects Planit-IE and will help meet the need for quality, attractive green space in the city centre – which will also open up access to the existing Cotton Field Park and Ancoats Marina.

The site will accommodate new walking routes, helping to link to other city centre active travel investment in Ancoats, Northern Quarter and out towards the Etihad Campus.

Detailed design work will continue following consultation to deliver a park space comparable in size to Ancoats Green, which is also currently undergoing redevelopment works.

Development across the rest of the site will be brought forward as a later development phase. More information will be made available in due course.

Bev Craig, leader of Manchester City Council, said: “We are beginning to see the potential of this site unlocked and the plans being developed by the council and the GPA meet the ambitions we have for this important site – including a new city centre park and digital campus that will be home to 7,000 civil servant jobs.

“The new park will help meet demand for high-quality green space in the city centre and will complement other green investment – including Ancoats Green – in this neighbourhood.

“As ever, consultation is the opportunity for our residents to give us feedback on the emerging proposals and help guide this investment that will benefit Mancunians for years to come.”

Take part in the public consultation – Tuesday, September 10

Local people and businesses can provide feedback online or at two in-person public consultation events at Halle St Peter’s, 40 Blossom Street, Ancoats, M4 6BF. Find out more about the proposals and feedback online:

www.fcrp-manchester.co.uk

Session one: 12pm to 2.30pm and session two: 5pm to 7pm

Anyone with accessibility needs – or no access to the internet – can call 0808 175 3408.

The consultation will end on September 23, 2024. Proposals will be finalised and separate planning applications submitted later this year.

Rochdale police crack down on traffic offences

Helen Greaney
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Rochdale police crack down on traffic offences

Rochdale police’s neighbourhood team have targeted more than 300 vehicles for offences.

Beginning in April, the local Rochdale tutor unit has taken part in multiple operations targeting areas that members of the public have said are persistently problematic areas.

This has seen officers link up with specialist resources from our traffic division, utilising speed cameras, checkers, and partners in the local community.

This in particular includes Trading Standards – who are able to assess vehicles used for business, check the conformity of any alterations, and issue the appropriate paperwork.

Between April and July in seven separate operations, a total of 310 vehicles were stopped for checks.

In 178 instances, a TOR (Traffic Offence Report) was issued to the driver. The TOR could encompass driving while on a mobile phone, speeding, driving dangerously, or ignoring traffic signs among other offences.

In addition, 13 vehicles were seized for having no insurance and arrests were made on suspicion of possession of Class A drugs, failing to provide a sample, and drug driving. Regular police actions such as stop searches and breathalysers were also carried out.

Officers will continue to undertake their proactive work, operating in areas where residents of Rochdale tell them they are having issues on the road.

PC Dan Richards said: “We run these operations to help people stay safe on the roads of Rochdale and beyond – driving while on a mobile phone, or while not using a seatbelt – could have potentially devastating consequences, and it is incredibly important we enforce the laws in place.

“When people tell us about issues they have in their area, such as a specific road or junction, we aim to work around there to help prevent and deter any criminality on the roads. By keeping a presence there when we can, we hope to show drivers we will put a stop to any inappropriate or criminal behaviour that may be being committed.

“I would urge residents across Rochdale to report any issues you have to us. It all adds to our intelligence picture and enables us to see the best place to put our resources.”

E-fit of man released in connection with rape in Manchester

Helen Greaney
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E-fit of man released in connection with rape in Manchester

Detectives have released a new e-fit from descriptions after a report of rape was made in June 2024.

Enquiries have established the incident happened around 4-5am off Deansgate road in the city centre on Thursday, August 17 2023.

No arrests have been made at this stage, but the investigation is continuing.

Detective Constable Rowan said: “We are now able to ask for the help of the public to try to identify the person involved in this incident.

“After obtaining witness statements and descriptions, we have managed to produce an e-fit that should hopefully help in that process.

“Since we were informed of the incident recently, we have ensured the relevant support has been provided to the woman whilst ensuring we can move swiftly to see if we can identify the person responsible.

“In the background, we are continuing with our enquiries despite the time passed since the incident took place and remain committed on tackling serious sexual offences.”

Anyone with information is asked to call police on 101 quoting incident 2435 of 27/06/2024. Alternatively, details can be passed on anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

The complete lift installation process explained

Helen Greaney
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The complete lift installation process explained

Whether you are installing a lift in a commercial or residential building, it will require planning, attention to detail and knowledge to complete to the best standard. Understanding the process of lift installation will help to ensure the project runs smoothly from start to finish. 

1. Initial consultation and site survey

The first thing to do when installing a new lift into a building is perform an initial consultation and site survey. During this process, our experts will evaluate the building’s needs and requirements. The aim of this consultation is to figure out what the most suitable lift is for your building, this is dependent on space, capacity, the structure of the building and how often it is being used.

2. Design and planning

Once the site survey has been completed, it is then time to plan the installation. The team will work closely with you to create a lift that meets the specific requirements of the building as well as a lift that is suitable for you too. During this phase of the installation, you will need to select the lift type for the building, the design of the interior and also any additional technical aspects such as lift shafts, existing infrastructure and electrical systems. A project plan will follow this meeting which will summarise the timeframe, cost and any issues you may come across during the project.

3. Obtaining necessary approvals and permits

When installing a new lift, it is important to ensure you have access to the necessary permits and approvals. You may need to apply to local authorities for permits which will ensure compliance, safety regulations and building codes are followed. If you employ a company to deal with this on your behalf, then they will ensure all of these approvals are sorted ahead of the installation process beginning.

4. Lift installation

Arguably the most important phase in the whole process is the actual installation of the lift. Our skilled technicians will assemble the lift and install all of the necessary equipment, this includes the lift car, rails, motors and control systems. There are precise rules to follow when installing the lift that have been set during the planning phase. The whole process should take around a week to complete, however it can take up to several weeks depending on the complexity of the process.

5. Testing and commissioning

Once installed, it is important to fully test the lift to make sure it is functioning correctly and safely to carry passengers. These tests will include but are not limited too: 

  • Load capacity 
  • Speed
  • Emergency system
  • Overall performance

Once the lift has passed the above checks, it will be ready for official use. 

6. Handover and training

As soon as the lift is fully operational, our technicians will hand over the lift operation to the building owner or manager. This handover will include full training on how to operate the lift and its emergency procedure as well as routine maintenance tasks to be completed. Alongside this you will receive documentation including when the lift will need to be serviced and contact information for additional support should you need it.

PanzerGlass Unveils CARE: A New Standard for Mobile Protection and Environmental Sustainability

News Desk
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PanzerGlass Unveils CARE: A New Standard for Mobile Protection and Environmental Sustainability

PanzerGlass, a global leader in screen protection, has unveiled its latest product range, CARE by PanzerGlass, which sets a new benchmark in mobile phone protection and environmental sustainability. The CARE collection, comprising cases and cardholders, has been meticulously crafted with an emphasis on durability, style, and eco-consciousness.

As the global mobile accessories market, valued at USD 93.34 billion in 2023, continues to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.80%, spurred by the rise of affordable smartphones and enhanced functionalities, PanzerGlass is responding to consumer demands for superior protection combined with sustainable practices. The CARE range boasts improved drop protection of up to 4.8 metres, an anti-yellowing guarantee, and is crafted entirely from recycled plastic, marrying robustness with sustainability in a stylish design.

“From the start, we wanted CARE to be the first choice for consumers looking to protect their phones while also making a positive impact on the environment,” said Michael Broend, Vice President for Marketing at PanzerGlass. “By listening to our community, we’ve shaped a product that not only meets their needs for durability and style but also aligns with their values of sustainability and self-expression.”

The CARE by PanzerGlass range also taps into the growing trend of mobile accessories being seen as both functional and fashionable. With its sleek, stylish design and additional features such as a kickstand for hands-free use, CARE seamlessly blends protection with convenience. This launch underscores PanzerGlass’s commitment to innovation and customer insight, enhancing the longevity and value of mobile devices.

Alongside its environmental advantages, the CARE range distinguishes itself in the market with a pioneering anti-yellowing guarantee, ensuring that the products retain their visual appeal over time. This innovation directly addresses consumer concerns about the durability and appearance of their phone accessories.

As the mobile accessories market continues to expand, PanzerGlass is poised to lead with products that not only provide protection but also advance sustainability and personal expression. With CARE by PanzerGlass, consumers can protect their devices with confidence, knowing they are contributing to a more sustainable future.

Oasis announce first UK and Ireland shows in 16 years

Helen Greaney
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Oasis announce first UK and Ireland shows in 16 years
Oasis have ended years of feverish speculation with the confirmation of a long-awaited run of UK and Ireland shows, forming the domestic leg of their OASIS LIVE 25 world tour.
The band will hit Cardiff’s Principality Stadium, Manchester’s Heaton Park, London’s Wembley Stadium, Edinburgh’s Scottish Gas Murrayfield Stadium and Dublin’s Croke Park in the summer of 2025.
Ticketholders can expect a set full of wall-to-wall classics and the crowd singing back every word – and of course, the charisma and intensity that only comes when Burnage brothers Liam and Noel Gallagher are on-stage together.
The brothers have flourished with their own projects since the band split in 2009, with ten UK number one albums between them as well as countless festival headline sets and stadium and arena shows.
There has been no great revelatory moment that has ignited the reunion – just the gradual realisation that the time is right.
This Thursday represents thirty years to the day since their electrifying debut album ‘Definitely Maybe’ was released, while 2025 will see the equally essential second record ‘(What’s The Story) Morning Glory?’ reach that same anniversary.
Oasis said: “The guns have fallen silent. The stars have aligned. The great wait is over. Come see.
It will not be televised.”
Plans are underway for OASIS LIVE ’25 to go to other continents outside of Europe later next year.
The classics that Liam and Noel have played in their solo shows have inspired phenomenal public demand for the band to make a long-awaited return, while the ‘Knebworth 1996’ film provided a taste of their exhilarating live performances to a whole new generation.
They remain a huge draw in the streaming era, with 21.5 million monthly listeners at Spotify alone and a total of 12 billion streams to date. This Friday will also see the release of the Deluxe 30th Anniversary Edition of ‘Definitely Maybe’, which is available to pre-order here.
Tickets for the UK dates go on sale from 9am on Saturday, August 31, available at:www.ticketmaster.co.uk, www.gigsandtours.com and www.seetickets.com. 
Image credit: Simon Emmett

Transforming your BMW with a spoiler: A comprehensive guide

Helen Greaney
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Transforming your BMW with a spoiler: A comprehensive guide

A BMW spoiler is more than just an accessory; it’s a performance-enhancing and stylistic upgrade that can transform the look and feel of your vehicle. Whether you’re enhancing your driving experience or the aesthetics of your BMW, spoilers play a pivotal role. This article delves into what a BMW spoiler is, its benefits, why you should consider installing one, and how Maxton Design, a UK-based company, offers excellent options for your BMW.

What is a BMW spoiler?

A BMW spoiler is an aerodynamic addition typically installed on the rear of a vehicle, although front spoilers or air dams are also popular. The primary function of a spoiler is to disrupt airflow, reducing lift and improving the car’s stability at high speeds. It manipulates the air around the car to keep it firmly planted on the road, which is crucial for performance-oriented drivers.

In modern car design, spoilers have transcended their original purpose. While their aerodynamic benefits remain, they are also highly regarded for their aesthetic appeal. For BMW owners, a spoiler adds an aggressive, sporty look that accentuates the sleek design of the vehicle.

Benefits of a BMW spoiler

1. Enhanced aerodynamics

The primary benefit of a BMW spoiler is aerodynamic efficiency. By minimising lift, the spoiler improves grip, particularly at high speeds. The reduced lift allows the tyres to remain firmly in contact with the road, enhancing overall handling and reducing the risk of losing control during sharp turns or high-speed manoeuvres.

This feature is especially beneficial if you regularly drive your BMW on highways or participate in track days. The stability that comes with improved aerodynamics makes for a safer, more controlled driving experience.

2. Improved fuel efficiency

One lesser-known benefit of a BMW spoiler is improved fuel efficiency. By cutting down drag, the engine doesn’t have to work as hard to propel the vehicle, leading to reduced fuel consumption. While the savings might be marginal for daily driving, they can add up over time, particularly for those who frequently engage in high-speed driving.

3. Aesthetic appeal

A BMW spoiler not only improves performance but also elevates the car’s appearance. Whether you opt for a subtle lip spoiler or a more dramatic wing, the aesthetic transformation is noticeable. A spoiler can make your car look more aggressive and performance-focused, setting it apart from standard models.

Maxton Design offers a wide range of spoiler designs, from sleek and minimalistic to bold and eye-catching, allowing you to customise your BMW’s appearance according to your style preferences.

Why should you install a BMW spoiler?

1. Performance and safety

For those who enjoy pushing their BMW to its limits, a spoiler provides an extra layer of safety. When driving at high speeds, particularly on tracks or highways, improved traction and stability can prevent accidents caused by loss of control. Even in everyday driving, the improved grip and aerodynamics can enhance the overall handling of your vehicle, making it feel more responsive.

2. Customisation

Personalisation is one of the key reasons BMW owners choose to install spoilers. A BMW spoiler allows you to differentiate your car from the others on the road. Whether you’re looking for a subtle change or a drastic makeover, Maxton Design offers numerous options that cater to different tastes and preferences.

The wide variety of spoiler options available from Maxton Design ensures that you can find the perfect fit for your BMW, whether it’s a 3 Series, M3, or X5. Each spoiler is crafted with precision using state-of-the-art 3D scanning technology, guaranteeing a perfect fit for your vehicle.

3. Increased resale value

Upgrading your BMW with performance-enhancing parts like a spoiler can increase the resale value of your vehicle. Potential buyers are often willing to pay a premium for cars that have been well-maintained and thoughtfully customised. A spoiler not only improves the car’s performance but also boosts its appeal in the used car market.

Types of BMW spoilers

Maxton Design offers an extensive range of spoilers designed for different BMW models. Below are the most popular types of BMW spoilers you can find:

1. Lip spoilers

A lip spoiler is subtle yet effective. It’s mounted on the rear edge of the car’s boot lid and is designed to give the vehicle a sportier look without being too flashy. This is ideal for those who want the aerodynamic benefits of a spoiler while maintaining the classic lines of their BMW.

2. Wing spoilers

Wing spoilers are larger and more prominent, designed to maximise downforce. This type of spoiler is popular among those who take their BMW to the track or are simply looking for an aggressive look. Wing spoilers not only enhance the car’s performance but also make a bold design statement.

3. Roof spoilers

Roof spoilers are installed on the rear of the car’s roof, particularly on hatchback or SUV models like the BMW X5. This type of spoiler helps to streamline the airflow across the top of the vehicle, further enhancing the car’s aerodynamic profile.

4. Ducktail spoilers

A ducktail spoiler sits slightly higher than a lip spoiler and offers a more aggressive profile without the bulk of a full wing spoiler. This is a popular choice among those looking for a balance between performance and style.

Why choose Maxton Design?

Maxton Design, based in the UK, has established itself as a leader in the automotive styling industry, especially for BMW spoilers. What sets them apart is their use of cutting-edge technology and materials like ABS plastic and carbon fiber, ensuring that their products are not only aesthetically pleasing but also durable and reliable.

1. Quality craftsmanship

Maxton Design prides itself on using advanced 3D scanning technology to create precise, vehicle-specific spoilers. This ensures that each spoiler perfectly complements the contours of your BMW, providing both aesthetic and performance enhancements.

2. Variety and customisation

The wide variety of designs available allows BMW owners to pick a spoiler that aligns with their personal style. Whether you want a spoiler in gloss black, a carbon look, or a textured finish, Maxton Design provides various customisation options to suit every preference.

3. Easy installation

Maxton Design spoilers are designed for easy installation. Each product comes with detailed instructions and can be installed with basic tools, making it an accessible modification for any BMW enthusiast.

A BMW spoiler is a worthy investment for any BMW owner looking to enhance both the performance and appearance of their vehicle. By improving aerodynamics, increasing fuel efficiency, and adding a unique aesthetic flair, spoilers provide a blend of functionality and style. Maxton Design stands out as a premier provider of high-quality spoilers, offering UK-manufactured products that guarantee a perfect fit for your BMW.

England axe Bairstow and Moeen ahead of Australia series

Alex Hoad
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England axe Bairstow and Moeen ahead of Australia series

World Cup winners Jonny Bairstow and Moeen Ali have been left out of England’s white-ball squad to face Australia next month, with five new faces included.

Warwickshire all-rounders Jacob Bethell, 20, and Dan Mousley, 23, have been called up for the first time ahead of the three-match T20 series while Jordan Cox of Essex, Hampshire paceman John Turner and Leicestershire’s left-armer Josh Hull, fresh from a maiden Test call-up, have been picked in the 15-man squad.

Hull, Bethell and Turner are also in named in the squad for five ODIs which follow the T20 series.

Marcus Trescothick is England’s interim coach following the departure of Matthew Mott in July after the defeat to India in the T20 World Cup semi-finals.

The selection might spell the end of the England careers of Bairstow, 34, after 287 appearances and Ali, 37, who has played 298 matches in all formats and has been Jos Buttler’s vice-captain at the past three World Cups.

Chris Jordan is another notable omission while Joe Root is ‘rested’ from the ODI squad and Mark Wood and Ben Stokes are missing through injury.

Buttler is fit after a calf injury while bowler Saqib Mahmood has been picked in the T20 squad for the first time since sustaining a second stress fracture of his back last year.

Durham seamer Brydon Carse features in both squads, with his suspension from cricket for breaching betting regulations set to end this week.

All-rounder Liam Livingstone is only named in the T20 squad having been a fixture in the 50-over side in recent years.

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