Responding to the extraordinary situation, Kookaburra started developing a wax applicator, which could be ready in a month's time. Acting on guidelines framed by Australian Institute of Sport (AIS), Australia has already restricted the use of saliva and sweat.
Bushfires across Australia's most populated state of New South Wales have killed six people and ravaged more than 250,000 acres of land. States of emergency have been declared in Queensland and New South Wales as arid weather and strong winds continue to create catastrophic fire conditions, which according to New South Wales state emergency services minister David Elliott "could be the most dangerous bushfire week this nation has ever seen." These pictures capture the dramatic scenes.
A selection of musings from around the cricket World Cup
The International Cricket Council released the provisional squads of the 12 teams for next year's World Cup in Australia and New Zealand on Friday. However, co-hosts Australia and minnows Ireland decided against releasing the provisional list although they submitted 30 names to the parent body within the stipulated deadline.