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<p>Russian and Belarusian flags have been banned from the Australian Open after Ukraine's ambassador complained about spotting the Russian flag in Melbourne Park.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Vasyl Myroshnychenko, the Ukrainian envoy to Australia and New Zealand took to Twitter to make his case after a Russian flag was spotted during Ukrainian player Kateryna Baindl's first-round match.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I strongly condemn the public display of the Russian flag during the game of the Ukrainian tennis player Kateryna Baindl at the Australian Open today. I call on Tennis Australia to immediately enforce its “neutral flag” policy.'</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">I strongly condemn the public display of the Russian flag during the game of the Ukrainian tennis player Kateryna Baindl at the Australian Open today. I call on Tennis Australia to immediately enforce its “neutral flag” policy. <a href="https://twitter.com/TennisAustralia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TennisAustralia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/AustralianOpen?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AustralianOpen</a> <a href="https://t.co/zw8pLN4FIF">pic.twitter.com/zw8pLN4FIF</a></p>
— Vasyl Myroshnychenko (@AmbVasyl) <a href="https://twitter.com/AmbVasyl/status/1614905533366177792?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 16, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>After Myroshnychenko's post went viral, Tennis Australia quickly reacted and released a statement saying the flags from the two countries were outright banned now.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Our initial policy was that fans could bring them in but could not use them to cause disruption. Yesterday we had an incident where a flag was placed courtside," read the statement.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The ban is effective immediately. We will continue to work with the players and our fans to ensure the best possible environment to enjoy tennis.”</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-wimbledon-bans-russian-and-belarusian-players-472820"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: Wimbledon bans Russian and Belarusian players</strong></a></p>

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<p>After Tennis Australia's decision, the Russian embassy in Australia released a statement as well and slammed the tournament organisers for their partisan behaviour.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The decision to ban Russian and Belorussian flags from appearing onsite at the Australian Open is another example of unacceptable politicisation of sports," said the Russian embassy.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"On top of already discriminating against Russian tennis players with its ‘neutral flag’ policy Tennis Australia now went further by making sure they can not be visibly supported by their fans," it added.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">❗️The decision to ban 🇷🇺Russian and 🇧🇾Belorussian flags from appearing onsite at the <a href="https://twitter.com/AustralianOpen?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AustralianOpen</a> is another example of unacceptable politicisation of sports🔗<a href="https://t.co/pno9ALImJE">https://t.co/pno9ALImJE</a> <a href="https://t.co/wVpY9OCMZF">pic.twitter.com/wVpY9OCMZF</a></p>
— Russia in Australia (@RusEmbAU) <a href="https://twitter.com/RusEmbAU/status/1615209164019752960?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 17, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Notably, after Russia invaded Ukraine last year, Russian and Belarusian players were barred from participating in Wimbledon Grand Slam.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wimbledon-defends-ban-on-russian-players-confirms-covid-vaccination-not-mandatory-for-participation-474035" target="_blank"><strong>Read more: Wimbledon defends ban on Russian players, confirms Covid vaccination not mandatory for participation</strong></a></p>

<p>"We believe we have made the most responsible decision possible in the circumstances. And that within the framework of the governance position, there`s no viable alternative to the decision we have taken in this truly exceptional and tragic situation," said Ian Hewitt, chairman, All England Lawn Tennis Club (AELTC) at the time.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Russian and Belarusian flags have been banned from the Australian Open after Ukraine's ambassador complained about spotting the Russian flag in Melbourne Park. Vasyl Myroshnychenko, the Ukrainian envoy to Australia and New Zealand took to Twitter to make his case after a Russian flag was spotted during Ukrainian player Kateryna Baindl's first-round match.

Russian and Belarusian flags have been banned from the Australian Open after Ukraine's ambassador complained about spotting the Russian flag in Melbourne Park. Vasyl Myroshnychenko, the Ukrainian envoy to Australia and New Zealand took to Twitter to make his case after a Russian flag was spotted during Ukrainian player Kateryna Baindl's first-round match. "I strongly condemn the public display of the Russian flag during the game of the Ukrainian tennis player Kateryna Baindl at the Australian Open today. I call on Tennis Australia to immediately enforce its “neutral flag” policy.' I strongly condemn the public display of the Russian flag during the game of the Ukrainian tennis player Kateryna Baindl at the Australian Open today. I call on Tennis Australia to immediately enforce its “neutral flag” policy. @TennisAustralia @AustralianOpen pic.twitter.com/zw8pLN4FIF — Vasyl Myroshnychenko (@AmbVasyl) January 16, 2023 × After Myroshnychenko's post went viral, Tennis Australia quickly reacted and released a statement saying the flags from the two countries were outright banned now. "Our initial policy was that fans could bring them in but could not use them to cause disruption. Yesterday we had an incident where a flag was placed courtside," read the statement. "The ban is effective immediately. We will continue to work with the players and our fans to ensure the best possible environment to enjoy tennis.” WATCH | Gravitas: Wimbledon bans Russian and Belarusian players × After Tennis Australia's decision, the Russian embassy in Australia released a statement as well and slammed the tournament organisers for their partisan behaviour. "The decision to ban Russian and Belorussian flags from appearing onsite at the Australian Open is another example of unacceptable politicisation of sports," said the Russian embassy. "On top of already discriminating against Russian tennis players with its ‘neutral flag’ policy Tennis Australia now went further by making sure they can not be visibly supported by their fans," it added. ❗️The decision to ban 🇷🇺Russian and 🇧🇾Belorussian flags from appearing onsite at the @AustralianOpen is another example of unacceptable politicisation of sports🔗https://t.co/pno9ALImJE pic.twitter.com/wVpY9OCMZF — Russia in Australia (@RusEmbAU) January 17, 2023 × Notably, after Russia invaded Ukraine last year, Russian and Belarusian players were barred from participating in Wimbledon Grand Slam. Read more: Wimbledon defends ban on Russian players, confirms Covid vaccination not mandatory for participation "We believe we have made the most responsible decision possible in the circumstances. And that within the framework of the governance position, there`s no viable alternative to the decision we have taken in this truly exceptional and tragic situation," said Ian Hewitt, chairman, All England Lawn Tennis Club (AELTC) at the time. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Russian and Belarusian flags banned from Australian Open after Ukraine's complaint

<p>Liverpool are having a horrid season so far. After being two matches away from completing a historic quadruple last season, the Liverpool caravan has fallen off a cliff. Questions are being raised if manager Jürgen Klopp's loyalty to certain players and unwillingness to replace them has caused harm to the team's fortunes. Now, the German manager has responded and said he is not too 'loyal' to underperformers.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“I am loyal, I think everyone should be loyal, but I am not too loyal. “The problem is too complex. You have a good player who did a lot of good stuff in the past and then maybe, in your mind, you think: ‘That’s it for him now.'” said Klopp in a media interaction ahead of Liverpool's third-round FA Cup tie against Wolverhampton Wanderers.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"If you can then go out and bring in another player to replace him then it makes sense from both sides to say: ‘Come on, it was a great time, see you later.’ If you cannot bring anybody in then you cannot take anyone out, that’s the situation.”</p>

<p>Liverpool have been languishing at the ninth spot on the table and are currently 19 points adrift of leaders Arsenal. The team has already crashed out of the Carabao Cup and its fortunes in the FA Cup rest on the replay match after playing a 2-2 draw at Anfield earlier this month.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-club-liverpool-put-up-for-sale-by-fenway-sports-group-531947"><strong>Read more:&nbsp;Premier League club Liverpool put up for sale by Fenway Sports Group</strong></a></p>

<p>Klopp's target will be to finish in the top 4 or otherwise the team will have to overcome the Real Madrid obstacle in the Champions League next month and hope to go all the way to Istanbul and win the trophy.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Klopp's clarification comes in the backdrop of rumor mills abuzz with the speculation that Liverpool has been sold to Qatari investors. After FSG put up the club for sale, numerous names were thrown in the ring but the Qatari investors and their interest in the club has generated the most momentum.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/sports-wion-exclusive-with-liverpool-fc-foundation-ceo-matt-parish-496443"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Sports: WION exclusive with Liverpool FC Foundation CEO Matt Parish</strong></a></p>

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<p>Liverpool are in desperate need of midfielders and FSG are unwilling to pivot on their 'sell to buy' strategy. Meaning, Klopp has not been able to shore up the middle of the field.</p>

<p>Ageing and declining players have forced Klopp's hand which has added to the 'loyality' narrative.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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Liverpool are having a horrid season so far. After being two matches away from completing a historic quadruple last season, the Liverpool caravan has fallen off a cliff.

Liverpool are having a horrid season so far. After being two matches away from completing a historic quadruple last season, the Liverpool caravan has fallen off a cliff. Questions are being raised if manager Jürgen Klopp's loyalty to certain players and unwillingness to replace them has caused harm to the team's fortunes. Now, the German manager has responded and said he is not too 'loyal' to underperformers. “I am loyal, I think everyone should be loyal, but I am not too loyal. “The problem is too complex. You have a good player who did a lot of good stuff in the past and then maybe, in your mind, you think: ‘That’s it for him now.'” said Klopp in a media interaction ahead of Liverpool's third-round FA Cup tie against Wolverhampton Wanderers. "If you can then go out and bring in another player to replace him then it makes sense from both sides to say: ‘Come on, it was a great time, see you later.’ If you cannot bring anybody in then you cannot take anyone out, that’s the situation.” Liverpool have been languishing at the ninth spot on the table and are currently 19 points adrift of leaders Arsenal. The team has already crashed out of the Carabao Cup and its fortunes in the FA Cup rest on the replay match after playing a 2-2 draw at Anfield earlier this month. Read more: Premier League club Liverpool put up for sale by Fenway Sports Group Klopp's target will be to finish in the top 4 or otherwise the team will have to overcome the Real Madrid obstacle in the Champions League next month and hope to go all the way to Istanbul and win the trophy. Klopp's clarification comes in the backdrop of rumor mills abuzz with the speculation that Liverpool has been sold to Qatari investors. After FSG put up the club for sale, numerous names were thrown in the ring but the Qatari investors and their interest in the club has generated the most momentum. WATCH | Sports: WION exclusive with Liverpool FC Foundation CEO Matt Parish × Liverpool are in desperate need of midfielders and FSG are unwilling to pivot on their 'sell to buy' strategy. Meaning, Klopp has not been able to shore up the middle of the field. Ageing and declining players have forced Klopp's hand which has added to the 'loyality' narrative. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

'I am not too loyal': Klopp responds to criticism he backs underperformers

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<p>22-time Grand Slam champion Rafael Nadal wore a puzzled look during his first-round match&nbsp;at the Australian Open when one of his racquets went missing.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During the first set, with the scoreline reading 4-3, both players went to their respective seats to refresh before a changeover. However, Nadal was left perplexed as one of his racquets was missing.</p>

<p>Agitated about the racquet, Nadal told the ballboy standing beside his seat,&nbsp;“It’s this one for restringing, not that [one you took]. I need the racket back.”</p>

<p>Nadal told the chair umpire about the quandary who could be seen using the phone to request that the racquet be returned to the Spaniard.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After looking a bit tense, Nadal saw the funny side of the incident and went towards his opponent Jack Draper and laughingly informed him about the situation.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">"The ballboy took my racquet" 😂<br />
<br />
A definite first for Rafa!<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AusOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AusOpen</a> • <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AO2023?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AO2023</a> <a href="https://t.co/T4xqN4ZLBd">pic.twitter.com/T4xqN4ZLBd</a></p>
— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) <a href="https://twitter.com/AustralianOpen/status/1614841279845892096?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 16, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Commentator John Fitzgerald&nbsp;joked at the sequence of events and said, "Goodness me, that's a big mistake and he knows. He knows the tension, he knows the sequence he wants to use the racquets in."</p>

<p>Fitzgerald's co-commentator&nbsp;Mark Petsch added,&nbsp;“You don’t often get a first in a Rafa match after all these years, but that is definitely the first that that would’ve happened.”</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-rafael-nadal-could-not-hold-back-tears-as-rival-roger-federer-bids-emotional-farewell-to-tennis-519203" target="_blank"><strong>WATCH: Rafael Nadal cannot hold back tears as rival Roger Federer bids emotional farewell to tennis</strong></a></p>

<p>It wasn't clear if Nadal got his racquet back but the distraction certainly didn't help him. The&nbsp;36-year-old lost&nbsp;the second set 6-2 after having won the opening set comfortably against his British rival.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Nadal, akin to most top tennis players is famous for his various idiosyncrasies and rituals before a tennis match.</p>

<p>His trademark style of adjusting the shorts, touching the left and right shoulder, tucking the hair behind the ears and tweaking the nose and lastly touching the cheek prior to serving is a sight that most tennis lovers have grown accustomed to seeing over the years.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Nadal is the defending champion and looking to extend his lead at the top with Novak Djokovic behind him standing on 21 Grand Slams.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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22-time Grand Slam champion Rafael Nadal wore a puzzled look during his first-round match at the Australian Open when one of his racquets went missing. During the first set, with the scoreline reading 4-3, both players went to their respective seats to refresh before a changeover.

22-time Grand Slam champion Rafael Nadal wore a puzzled look during his first-round match at the Australian Open when one of his racquets went missing. During the first set, with the scoreline reading 4-3, both players went to their respective seats to refresh before a changeover. However, Nadal was left perplexed as one of his racquets was missing. Agitated about the racquet, Nadal told the ballboy standing beside his seat, “It’s this one for restringing, not that [one you took]. I need the racket back.” Nadal told the chair umpire about the quandary who could be seen using the phone to request that the racquet be returned to the Spaniard. After looking a bit tense, Nadal saw the funny side of the incident and went towards his opponent Jack Draper and laughingly informed him about the situation. "The ballboy took my racquet" 😂 A definite first for Rafa!#AusOpen • #AO2023 pic.twitter.com/T4xqN4ZLBd — #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 16, 2023 × Commentator John Fitzgerald joked at the sequence of events and said, "Goodness me, that's a big mistake and he knows. He knows the tension, he knows the sequence he wants to use the racquets in." Fitzgerald's co-commentator Mark Petsch added, “You don’t often get a first in a Rafa match after all these years, but that is definitely the first that that would’ve happened.” WATCH: Rafael Nadal cannot hold back tears as rival Roger Federer bids emotional farewell to tennis It wasn't clear if Nadal got his racquet back but the distraction certainly didn't help him. The 36-year-old lost the second set 6-2 after having won the opening set comfortably against his British rival. Nadal, akin to most top tennis players is famous for his various idiosyncrasies and rituals before a tennis match. His trademark style of adjusting the shorts, touching the left and right shoulder, tucking the hair behind the ears and tweaking the nose and lastly touching the cheek prior to serving is a sight that most tennis lovers have grown accustomed to seeing over the years. Nadal is the defending champion and looking to extend his lead at the top with Novak Djokovic behind him standing on 21 Grand Slams. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LVE HERE:

WATCH | Puzzled Rafael Nadal looks for his racquet after the ballboy nicks it

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<p>Nick Kyrgios has pulled out of the Australian Open 2023 without stepping foot on the court. The 27-year-old announced his decision on the eve of his opening match and said he was 'devastated' to have missed out on his home grand slam.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“It’s just bad timing. That’s life, you know. Injuries are part of sport...I’m not doubting that I’ll be back to my full strength. Devastated obviously," said Kyrgios in a hastily arranged press conference.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It’s my home tournament and going into this event as one of the favourites, it’s brutal.”</p>

<p>The Australian had been struggling with an ankle issue, leading into the event. Kyrgios' physio Will Maher informed the media that a cyst had formed as a result of a small tear in his lateral meniscus.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The divisive Australian participated in a charity match alongside Novak Djokovic last Friday. Maher said the match was used to see if Kyrgios could compete at the Grand Slam. However, he “didn’t pull up great” from Friday’s match.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nick-kyrgios-settles-legal-case-with-wimbledon-fan-he-accused-of-being-drunk-531387" target="_blank"><strong>Read more: Nick Kyrgios settles legal case with Wimbledon fan he accused of being drunk</strong></a></p>

<p>“We used the charity event against Novak to see if he could compete at the highest level...it was worth persevering to see if he can get back on court."</p>

<p>The defending champion in the doubles is expected to undergo arthroscopic surgery to remove the cyst. The rehabilitation process may take five-six weeks and Kyrgios might only be available for Indian Wells which starts in March.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After years of underachieving, Kyrgios had a terrific run of form in the second half of 2022, winning the title in Washington and reaching his first Grand Slam singles final at Wimbledon and the US Open quarter-finals.</p>

<p>In the Australian Open 2022, Kyrgios partnered up with his countryman Thanasi Kokkinakis and went the distance by winning the title at Melbourne Park.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kyrgios has become the latest high-profile name to have withdrawn from the Australian Open. Previously, it was Japanese Naomi Osaka who withdrew from the tournament due to her pregnancy.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/heartbreak-world-no-1-carlos-alcaraz-to-miss-australian-open-due-to-an-injury-550173"><strong>Read more: Heartbreak! World no. 1 Carlos Alcaraz to miss Australian Open due to an injury</strong></a></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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Nick Kyrgios has pulled out of the Australian Open 2023 without stepping foot on the court. The 27-year-old announced his decision on the eve of his opening match and said he was 'devastated' to have missed out on his home grand slam.

Nick Kyrgios has pulled out of the Australian Open 2023 without stepping foot on the court. The 27-year-old announced his decision on the eve of his opening match and said he was 'devastated' to have missed out on his home grand slam. “It’s just bad timing. That’s life, you know. Injuries are part of sport...I’m not doubting that I’ll be back to my full strength. Devastated obviously," said Kyrgios in a hastily arranged press conference. "It’s my home tournament and going into this event as one of the favourites, it’s brutal.” The Australian had been struggling with an ankle issue, leading into the event. Kyrgios' physio Will Maher informed the media that a cyst had formed as a result of a small tear in his lateral meniscus. The divisive Australian participated in a charity match alongside Novak Djokovic last Friday. Maher said the match was used to see if Kyrgios could compete at the Grand Slam. However, he “didn’t pull up great” from Friday’s match. Read more: Nick Kyrgios settles legal case with Wimbledon fan he accused of being drunk “We used the charity event against Novak to see if he could compete at the highest level...it was worth persevering to see if he can get back on court." The defending champion in the doubles is expected to undergo arthroscopic surgery to remove the cyst. The rehabilitation process may take five-six weeks and Kyrgios might only be available for Indian Wells which starts in March. After years of underachieving, Kyrgios had a terrific run of form in the second half of 2022, winning the title in Washington and reaching his first Grand Slam singles final at Wimbledon and the US Open quarter-finals. In the Australian Open 2022, Kyrgios partnered up with his countryman Thanasi Kokkinakis and went the distance by winning the title at Melbourne Park. Kyrgios has become the latest high-profile name to have withdrawn from the Australian Open. Previously, it was Japanese Naomi Osaka who withdrew from the tournament due to her pregnancy. Read more: Heartbreak! World no. 1 Carlos Alcaraz to miss Australian Open due to an injury (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Australian Open 2023: 'Devastated' Nick Kyrgios pulls out of the tournament due to injury

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<p>Indian cricketer Rishabh Pant has posted his first message following a freak car accident that left him with severe injuries last month. Pant took to his Twitter account to state his surgery was a success and that 'the road to recovery' had begun.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I am humbled and grateful for all the support and good wishes. I am glad to let you know that my surgery was a success. The road to recovery has begun and I am ready for the challenges ahead. Thank you to the @BCCI, @JayShah &amp; government authorities for their incredible support."</p>

<p>The wicketkeeper batter added that he was looking forward to getting back on the field soon.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"From the bottom of my heart, I also would like to thank all my fans, teammates, doctors and the physios for your kind words and encouragement. Looking forward to see you all on the field. #grateful #blessed."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">I am humbled and grateful for all the support and good wishes. I am glad to let you know that my surgery was a success. The road to recovery has begun and I am ready for the challenges ahead.<br />
Thank you to the <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BCCI</a> , <a href="https://twitter.com/JayShah?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@JayShah</a> &amp; government authorities for their incredible support.</p>
— Rishabh Pant (@RishabhPant17) <a href="https://twitter.com/RishabhPant17/status/1614973908607983617?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 16, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rishabh-pant-accident-case-know-how-many-years-pant-will-take-to-recover-huge-setback-for-team-india-552833"><strong>Read more:&nbsp;Rishabh Pant accident case: Know how many years Pant will take to recover; huge setback for team India</strong></a></p>

<p>The 25-year-old is currently receiving treatment at Mumbai's Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital and will remain there until he fully recovers.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He had previously been hospitalised at the Max Hospital in Dehradun, from where the BCCI had flown him to Mumbai for additional care.</p>

<p>Pant was travelling alone to his hometown in the Roorkee district of the north Indian state of Uttarakhand in his Mercedes car when the accident took place. Soon after the accident, the car caught fire and Pant had to seek the help of nearby people to shatter the glass window to roll out of the car.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/breaking-cricketer-rishabh-pant-injured-in-accident-on-delhi-dehradun-highway-in-india-547905"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Cricketer Rishabh Pant injured in accident on Delhi-Dehradun highway in India</strong></a></p>

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<p>Disturbing videos and images of Pant seriously injured went viral on social media platforms as people feared the worst. However, the quick action of the passersby&nbsp;meant that Pant received treatment in quick time and remained out of danger.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The accident was serious and Pant may easily take more than a year to recover properly. He was expected to play a big role in India's defence of the Border-Gavaskar trophy as well as the upcoming World Cups. However, the injury means that he will be missing out on the action.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indian-cricketer-rishabh-pant-injured-in-car-accident-547898" target="_blank"><strong>Read more: Indian cricketer Rishabh Pant injured in car crash</strong></a></p>

<p>Pant's IPL franchise Delhi Capitals and its Director of Cricket Sourav Ganguly has already informed that the left-hander will be missing the upcoming season of IPL.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It will take time to heal. We cannot do anything. It's an accident. He is just 23. He has got a lot of time. Rishabh Pant will not be available for the IPL. I am in connection with DC. It will be a great IPL. We will do well. Pant's injury will affect DC."</p>

<p>An official update on Pant's absence period is awaited but fans continue to hope and pray for him to recover to his fullest.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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Indian cricketer Rishabh Pant has posted his first message following a freak car accident that left him with severe injuries last month. Pant took to his Twitter account to state his surgery was a success and that 'the road to recovery' had begun.

Indian cricketer Rishabh Pant has posted his first message following a freak car accident that left him with severe injuries last month. Pant took to his Twitter account to state his surgery was a success and that 'the road to recovery' had begun. "I am humbled and grateful for all the support and good wishes. I am glad to let you know that my surgery was a success. The road to recovery has begun and I am ready for the challenges ahead. Thank you to the @BCCI, @JayShah & government authorities for their incredible support." The wicketkeeper batter added that he was looking forward to getting back on the field soon. "From the bottom of my heart, I also would like to thank all my fans, teammates, doctors and the physios for your kind words and encouragement. Looking forward to see you all on the field. #grateful #blessed." I am humbled and grateful for all the support and good wishes. I am glad to let you know that my surgery was a success. The road to recovery has begun and I am ready for the challenges ahead. Thank you to the @BCCI , @JayShah & government authorities for their incredible support. — Rishabh Pant (@RishabhPant17) January 16, 2023 × Read more: Rishabh Pant accident case: Know how many years Pant will take to recover; huge setback for team India The 25-year-old is currently receiving treatment at Mumbai's Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital and will remain there until he fully recovers. He had previously been hospitalised at the Max Hospital in Dehradun, from where the BCCI had flown him to Mumbai for additional care. Pant was travelling alone to his hometown in the Roorkee district of the north Indian state of Uttarakhand in his Mercedes car when the accident took place. Soon after the accident, the car caught fire and Pant had to seek the help of nearby people to shatter the glass window to roll out of the car. WATCH | Cricketer Rishabh Pant injured in accident on Delhi-Dehradun highway in India × Disturbing videos and images of Pant seriously injured went viral on social media platforms as people feared the worst. However, the quick action of the passersby meant that Pant received treatment in quick time and remained out of danger. The accident was serious and Pant may easily take more than a year to recover properly. He was expected to play a big role in India's defence of the Border-Gavaskar trophy as well as the upcoming World Cups. However, the injury means that he will be missing out on the action. Read more: Indian cricketer Rishabh Pant injured in car crash Pant's IPL franchise Delhi Capitals and its Director of Cricket Sourav Ganguly has already informed that the left-hander will be missing the upcoming season of IPL. "It will take time to heal. We cannot do anything. It's an accident. He is just 23. He has got a lot of time. Rishabh Pant will not be available for the IPL. I am in connection with DC. It will be a great IPL. We will do well. Pant's injury will affect DC." An official update on Pant's absence period is awaited but fans continue to hope and pray for him to recover to his fullest. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

'My surgery was...': Rishabh Pant tweets for the first time after the freak car accident

<p>Skipper Shafali Verma cracked a blistering 78 while opener Shweta Sehrawat sparkled with an unbeaten 74 as India outplayed UAE by 122 runs in the inaugural Women's U-19 T20 World Cup on Monday.</p>

<p>Shafali (78 off 34 balls) was at her destructive best and joined forces with an equally belligerent Sehrawat (74 not out off 49 deliveries) before Richa Ghosh smacked a 29-ball 49 to help India post an imposing 219 for three at Willowmoore Park.</p>

<p>The Indian bowlers then restricted UAE to 97 for five, the result showing the gulf between the two sides. With the win, India have consolidated their top spot in Group D.</p>

<p>Invited to bat, Shafali, who has already played over 70 international matches for the senior team, including 51 T20Is, and Sehrawat, stitched a 111-run stand for the first wicket.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Another day, another win for our strong young women at the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/U19T20WorldCup?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#U19T20WorldCup</a>. An amazing match through and through, as <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> dominated <a href="https://twitter.com/EmiratesCricket?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@EmiratesCricket</a> in both innings. Congratulations <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCIWomen?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BCCIWomen</a>! <a href="https://t.co/m2lcSg3zhi">pic.twitter.com/m2lcSg3zhi</a></p>
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<p>Sehrawat made her intentions clear from the first over, and after playing two dots, she smacked three boundaries to plunder 12 runs.</p>

<p>Shafali followed suit in the next over as she also hit three fours. The 18-year-old got the first maximum of the Indian innings in the fifth over.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/shafali-verma-picked-to-lead-india-at-the-maiden-under-19-world-cup-540134"><strong>Read more:&nbsp;Shafali Verma picked to lead India at the maiden Under-19 World Cup</strong></a></p>

<p>Shafali was the aggressor in the partnership as she toyed with the opposition, hitting boundaries at will. She brought up her fifty in style with a four.</p>

<p>The UAE bowlers seemed clueless as Shafali sent the ball to the fence 12 times and over it four times in her fiery 34-ball innings. After hitting three sixes and a four in a span of five balls, Shafali's blazing knock came to an end as she was caught at long-off.</p>

<p>Sehrawat, who remained unbeaten on 92 in the previous game, played the role of sheet anchor to perfection. She brought up her second successive half-century and looked in complete control.</p>

<p>Misfields and dropped catches only compounded UAE's woes as they gave as many as four reprieves to Richa, who was promoted to number three.</p>

<p>Chasing a 200-plus target, UAE openers looked up to the challenge as Theertha Satish found the boundary four times in the first over.</p>

<p>However, the charge was shortlived as Shabnam MD dismissed her in the fifth ball. Fellow opener Lavanya Keny scored a painstakingly slow 54-ball 24 but UAE never seemed in contention.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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Skipper Shafali Verma cracked a blistering 78 while opener Shweta Sehrawat sparkled with an unbeaten 74 as India outplayed UAE by 122 runs in the inaugural Women's U-19 T20 World Cup on Monday.

Skipper Shafali Verma cracked a blistering 78 while opener Shweta Sehrawat sparkled with an unbeaten 74 as India outplayed UAE by 122 runs in the inaugural Women's U-19 T20 World Cup on Monday. Shafali (78 off 34 balls) was at her destructive best and joined forces with an equally belligerent Sehrawat (74 not out off 49 deliveries) before Richa Ghosh smacked a 29-ball 49 to help India post an imposing 219 for three at Willowmoore Park. The Indian bowlers then restricted UAE to 97 for five, the result showing the gulf between the two sides. With the win, India have consolidated their top spot in Group D. Invited to bat, Shafali, who has already played over 70 international matches for the senior team, including 51 T20Is, and Sehrawat, stitched a 111-run stand for the first wicket. Another day, another win for our strong young women at the #U19T20WorldCup. An amazing match through and through, as #TeamIndia dominated @EmiratesCricket in both innings. Congratulations @BCCIWomen! pic.twitter.com/m2lcSg3zhi — Jay Shah (@JayShah) January 16, 2023 × Sehrawat made her intentions clear from the first over, and after playing two dots, she smacked three boundaries to plunder 12 runs. Shafali followed suit in the next over as she also hit three fours. The 18-year-old got the first maximum of the Indian innings in the fifth over. Read more: Shafali Verma picked to lead India at the maiden Under-19 World Cup Shafali was the aggressor in the partnership as she toyed with the opposition, hitting boundaries at will. She brought up her fifty in style with a four. The UAE bowlers seemed clueless as Shafali sent the ball to the fence 12 times and over it four times in her fiery 34-ball innings. After hitting three sixes and a four in a span of five balls, Shafali's blazing knock came to an end as she was caught at long-off. Sehrawat, who remained unbeaten on 92 in the previous game, played the role of sheet anchor to perfection. She brought up her second successive half-century and looked in complete control. Misfields and dropped catches only compounded UAE's woes as they gave as many as four reprieves to Richa, who was promoted to number three. Chasing a 200-plus target, UAE openers looked up to the challenge as Theertha Satish found the boundary four times in the first over. However, the charge was shortlived as Shabnam MD dismissed her in the fifth ball. Fellow opener Lavanya Keny scored a painstakingly slow 54-ball 24 but UAE never seemed in contention. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Women's U19 T20 World Cup: India beat UAE following Verma, Sehrawat's blitzkrieg

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<p>Aaron Ramsdale was kicked by a Tottenham fan on Sunday after Arsenal managed to outwit their London counterparts 2-0 at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on Sunday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After the match ended 2-0 in Arsenal's favour, Ramsdale could be seen celebrating in front of Tottenham forward Richarlison. The hot-headed Brazilian was not amused by Ramsdale's celebration and went straight toward him.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Soon, an altercation ensued between the duo as the stewards had to step in to separate the players. After the melee, Ramsdale went near his goalpost, past the byline to grab his water bottle.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It was during this moment that a Tottenham fan hopped the hoarding and landed a disgraceful kick in the back of Ramsdale. Arsenal's former captain Granit Xhaka saw the intruder and pointed toward him but inaction by the stewards allowed him to flee the spot.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The attacker fan with his face covered by a mask could be seen scurrying away in the video clips that have gone viral on social media platforms.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">A spurs fan came onto the pitch and kicked Aaron Ramsdale. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/afc?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#afc</a> <a href="https://t.co/vrEr17DsBy">pic.twitter.com/vrEr17DsBy</a></p>
— DailyAFC (@DailyAFC) <a href="https://twitter.com/DailyAFC/status/1614691475844907013?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 15, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/mouthwatering-ronaldo-to-captain-al-nassr-al-hilal-combined-xi-against-messis-psg-in-friendly-553171" target="_blank"><strong>Read more: Mouthwatering! Ronaldo to captain Al Nassr-Al Hilal combined XI against Messi's PSG in friendly</strong></a></p>

<p>Ramsdale, in the aftermath of the attack, said, "Spurs fans were giving me some crack second half, and I gave them some back. The few people I did give it to it was probably well greeted, in a sportsmanship way. But then a fan jumped over and gave me a little punch in the back.”</p>

<p>“That’s what happened, and it’s a shame because it is just a game of football at the end of the day."</p>

<p>Tottenham Hotspur released a statement after the match and condemned the attack whilst adding that efforts were underway to identify the attacker.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We are appalled by the behaviour of a supporter that attempted to attack Arsenal goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale at the end of today’s match. Violence in any form has no place in football."</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/talks-of-sporting-humiliation-disrespectful-carlo-ancelotti-after-defeat-against-barcelona-553107" target="_blank"><strong>Read more: Talks of 'sporting humiliation' disrespectful: Carlo Ancelotti after defeat against Barcelona</strong></a></p>

<p>The Professional Footballers Association (PFA) also released a statement and called for tougher action to be taken against such violent supporters.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Players have a right to be safe in their place of work. When a player is attacked we expect the laws and regulations that are in place to protect them to be properly enforced."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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Aaron Ramsdale was kicked by a Tottenham fan on Sunday after Arsenal managed to outwit their London counterparts 2-0 at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on Sunday. After the match ended 2-0 in Arsenal's favour, Ramsdale could be seen celebrating in front of Tottenham forward Richarlison.

Aaron Ramsdale was kicked by a Tottenham fan on Sunday after Arsenal managed to outwit their London counterparts 2-0 at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on Sunday. After the match ended 2-0 in Arsenal's favour, Ramsdale could be seen celebrating in front of Tottenham forward Richarlison. The hot-headed Brazilian was not amused by Ramsdale's celebration and went straight toward him. Soon, an altercation ensued between the duo as the stewards had to step in to separate the players. After the melee, Ramsdale went near his goalpost, past the byline to grab his water bottle. It was during this moment that a Tottenham fan hopped the hoarding and landed a disgraceful kick in the back of Ramsdale. Arsenal's former captain Granit Xhaka saw the intruder and pointed toward him but inaction by the stewards allowed him to flee the spot. The attacker fan with his face covered by a mask could be seen scurrying away in the video clips that have gone viral on social media platforms. A spurs fan came onto the pitch and kicked Aaron Ramsdale. #afc pic.twitter.com/vrEr17DsBy — DailyAFC (@DailyAFC) January 15, 2023 × Read more: Mouthwatering! Ronaldo to captain Al Nassr-Al Hilal combined XI against Messi's PSG in friendly Ramsdale, in the aftermath of the attack, said, "Spurs fans were giving me some crack second half, and I gave them some back. The few people I did give it to it was probably well greeted, in a sportsmanship way. But then a fan jumped over and gave me a little punch in the back.” “That’s what happened, and it’s a shame because it is just a game of football at the end of the day." Tottenham Hotspur released a statement after the match and condemned the attack whilst adding that efforts were underway to identify the attacker. "We are appalled by the behaviour of a supporter that attempted to attack Arsenal goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale at the end of today’s match. Violence in any form has no place in football." Read more: Talks of 'sporting humiliation' disrespectful: Carlo Ancelotti after defeat against Barcelona The Professional Footballers Association (PFA) also released a statement and called for tougher action to be taken against such violent supporters. "Players have a right to be safe in their place of work. When a player is attacked we expect the laws and regulations that are in place to protect them to be properly enforced." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

WATCH | Ramsdale kicked by a 'disgraceful' Tottenham fan following Arsenal's 2-0 victory

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<p>Cristiano Ronaldo will be captaining the Al Nassr-Al Hilal combined XI that will take on Lionel Messi's Paris-Saint Germain in a friendly on Thursday, later this week.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Saudi Arabia's General Authority for Entertainment Chairman&nbsp;Turki Al-Sheikh took to Twitter to share a video where he presented the captain's armband to Ronaldo ahead of the match, confirming the decision.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="rtl" lang="ar">الوعد ان شاءالله يوم ١٩ يناير … لقاء فوق الخيال … ومدير الفريق الكابتن خالد الشنيف ان شاءالله والتشكيلة غداً بيعلنها المدرب وخالد … اتمنى يومها ننسى الهلال والنصر ساعتين ونصير كلنا موسم الرياض… وبعد الساعتين نوقف الهدنة 😂🇸🇦❤️ <a href="https://t.co/nttB07IgBb">pic.twitter.com/nttB07IgBb</a></p>
— TURKI ALALSHIKH (@Turki_alalshikh) <a href="https://twitter.com/Turki_alalshikh/status/1614709963925950464?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 15, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Incidentally, it&nbsp;will be Ronaldo's debut match on Saudi Arabian soil, having signed for Al Nassr for a world record fee of $214 million last month.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Portuguese was forced to miss Al Nassr's Saudi Pro-league matches due to a two-match ban imposed by the English FA last year.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The 37-year-old forward was storming down the tunnel of Goodison Park last season when he angrily smashed an Everton fan's phone. Following an investigation by the FA, Ronaldo was handed a $60,000 (£50,000) fine and a two-match ban.</p>

<p>Al Nassr coach Rudi Garcia confirmed last week that Ronaldo was gearing up for his debut in the friendly.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It (his debut) won't be with the Al Nassr jersey. It will be a mix between Al Hilal and Al Nassr. As the coach of Al Nassr, I cannot be happy with this match. For development, to see PSG, to see the great Parisian players, indeed it is a good thing. But we have a championship game three days later."</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cristiano-ronaldos-al-nassr-debut-could-be-against-lionel-messis-psg-says-coach-rudi-garcia-550824" target="_blank"><strong>Read more: Cristiano Ronaldo's Al Nassr debut could be against Lionel Messi's PSG, says coach Rudi Garcia</strong></a></p>

<p>Ronaldo and Messi squaring up against each other is expected to be a marquee event, especially after the latter won the biggest prize in the sport, the World Cup trophy.</p>

<p>Both Messi and Ronaldo have had storied club football careers. However, Messi winning the WC may have tipped the scales in his favour in the greatest of all-time debate.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The friendly could also serve as a trailer for the future of the two superstars of the game. Rumors have been going around suggesting that Messi may join Al Hilal after his contract with PSG is up.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/al-hilal-rival-club-of-cristiano-ronaldos-al-nassr-aims-to-sign-lionel-messi-for-300-million-reports-551961" target="_blank"><strong>Read more: Al Hilal, rival club of Cristiano Ronaldo's Al Nassr, aims to sign Lionel Messi for $300 million - Reports</strong></a></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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Cristiano Ronaldo will be captaining the Al Nassr-Al Hilal combined XI that will take on Lionel Messi's Paris-Saint Germain in a friendly on Thursday, later this week.

Cristiano Ronaldo will be captaining the Al Nassr-Al Hilal combined XI that will take on Lionel Messi's Paris-Saint Germain in a friendly on Thursday, later this week. Saudi Arabia's General Authority for Entertainment Chairman Turki Al-Sheikh took to Twitter to share a video where he presented the captain's armband to Ronaldo ahead of the match, confirming the decision. الوعد ان شاءالله يوم ١٩ يناير … لقاء فوق الخيال … ومدير الفريق الكابتن خالد الشنيف ان شاءالله والتشكيلة غداً بيعلنها المدرب وخالد … اتمنى يومها ننسى الهلال والنصر ساعتين ونصير كلنا موسم الرياض… وبعد الساعتين نوقف الهدنة 😂🇸🇦❤️ pic.twitter.com/nttB07IgBb — TURKI ALALSHIKH (@Turki_alalshikh) January 15, 2023 × Incidentally, it will be Ronaldo's debut match on Saudi Arabian soil, having signed for Al Nassr for a world record fee of $214 million last month. The Portuguese was forced to miss Al Nassr's Saudi Pro-league matches due to a two-match ban imposed by the English FA last year. The 37-year-old forward was storming down the tunnel of Goodison Park last season when he angrily smashed an Everton fan's phone. Following an investigation by the FA, Ronaldo was handed a $60,000 (£50,000) fine and a two-match ban. Al Nassr coach Rudi Garcia confirmed last week that Ronaldo was gearing up for his debut in the friendly. "It (his debut) won't be with the Al Nassr jersey. It will be a mix between Al Hilal and Al Nassr. As the coach of Al Nassr, I cannot be happy with this match. For development, to see PSG, to see the great Parisian players, indeed it is a good thing. But we have a championship game three days later." Read more: Cristiano Ronaldo's Al Nassr debut could be against Lionel Messi's PSG, says coach Rudi Garcia Ronaldo and Messi squaring up against each other is expected to be a marquee event, especially after the latter won the biggest prize in the sport, the World Cup trophy. Both Messi and Ronaldo have had storied club football careers. However, Messi winning the WC may have tipped the scales in his favour in the greatest of all-time debate. The friendly could also serve as a trailer for the future of the two superstars of the game. Rumors have been going around suggesting that Messi may join Al Hilal after his contract with PSG is up. Read more: Al Hilal, rival club of Cristiano Ronaldo's Al Nassr, aims to sign Lionel Messi for $300 million - Reports (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Mouthwatering! Ronaldo to captain Al Nassr-Al Hilal combined XI against Messi's PSG in friendly

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<p>Trial began in the Indonesia stadium disaster on Monday when five men charged with negligence appeared in front of the court via video conferencing.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>Three local police officers, a match organiser, and a security official are facing the music. If convicted by the court, they could face a maximum sentence of five years in prison. A sixth suspect, a former director of the company that runs Indonesia's premier football league is currently under police investigation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The accused were supposed to be physically present in the court. However, the public furore over the incident forced the authorities to conduct the proceedings virtually for security reasons. Even then, thousands of police personnel were deployed around the court.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Lives should be paid with lives. That's not just numbers, it's human lives. We need justice for my child," one of the parents protesting outside the courthouse was quoted as saying by AFP.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/indonesia-stadium-tragedy-people-rally-for-stampede-victims-demand-justice-thorough-probe-533096" target="_blank"><strong>WATCH | Indonesia stadium tragedy: People rally for stampede victims; demand justice, thorough probe</strong></a></p>

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<p>On October 1, over 130 people were killed at the Kanjuruhan stadium in what has been described as one of the worst sporting disasters in modern history.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The stampede was triggered by the usage of tear gas by the police as panicked fans tried to escape through the exit gates.</p>

<p>The tear gas canisters were fired after some supporters invaded the pitch after the culmination&nbsp;of the match between rivals Arema FC and Persebaya Surabaya.</p>

<p>As the fans desperately tried to find a way out, they could not escape as several exit gates were locked, leading to an even more chaotic situation.</p>

<p>Viral videos on social media showed fans clambering over fences to escape and lifeless bodies lying on the floor.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indonesia-to-demolish-and-rebuild-football-stadium-where-stampede-killed-over-130-526412" target="_blank"><strong>Read more: Indonesia to demolish and rebuild football stadium where stampede killed over 130</strong></a></p>

<p>In the aftermath of the tragedy, Indonesian President Joko Widodo announced that the authorities will&nbsp;demolish and rebuild the&nbsp;Kanjuruhan&nbsp;stadium.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Kanjuruhan stadium in Malang...we will demolish it and rebuild according to FIFA standards."</p>

<p>The president said he agreed with FIFA President Gianni Infantino on significant changes to how the sport was managed in Indonesia.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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Trial began in the Indonesia stadium disaster on Monday when five men charged with negligence appeared in front of the court via video conferencing. Three local police officers, a match organiser, and a security official are facing the music.

Trial began in the Indonesia stadium disaster on Monday when five men charged with negligence appeared in front of the court via video conferencing. Three local police officers, a match organiser, and a security official are facing the music. If convicted by the court, they could face a maximum sentence of five years in prison. A sixth suspect, a former director of the company that runs Indonesia's premier football league is currently under police investigation. The accused were supposed to be physically present in the court. However, the public furore over the incident forced the authorities to conduct the proceedings virtually for security reasons. Even then, thousands of police personnel were deployed around the court. "Lives should be paid with lives. That's not just numbers, it's human lives. We need justice for my child," one of the parents protesting outside the courthouse was quoted as saying by AFP. WATCH | Indonesia stadium tragedy: People rally for stampede victims; demand justice, thorough probe × On October 1, over 130 people were killed at the Kanjuruhan stadium in what has been described as one of the worst sporting disasters in modern history. The stampede was triggered by the usage of tear gas by the police as panicked fans tried to escape through the exit gates. The tear gas canisters were fired after some supporters invaded the pitch after the culmination of the match between rivals Arema FC and Persebaya Surabaya. As the fans desperately tried to find a way out, they could not escape as several exit gates were locked, leading to an even more chaotic situation. Viral videos on social media showed fans clambering over fences to escape and lifeless bodies lying on the floor. Read more: Indonesia to demolish and rebuild football stadium where stampede killed over 130 In the aftermath of the tragedy, Indonesian President Joko Widodo announced that the authorities will demolish and rebuild the Kanjuruhan stadium. "Kanjuruhan stadium in Malang...we will demolish it and rebuild according to FIFA standards." The president said he agreed with FIFA President Gianni Infantino on significant changes to how the sport was managed in Indonesia. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Trial begins in the Indonesia stadium disaster that killed over 130

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<p>Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti sounded defensive in the aftermath of the 3-1 loss against rivals Barcelona in the Spanish Supercopa final on Sunday. Ancelotti said the talks of 'sporting humiliation' after the defeat were disrespectful.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“To say this was a sporting humiliation is a lack of respect," said Ancelotti in a post-match conference before adding, "We lost a match to Barcelona, just as we won a match against them in La Liga. Barcelona were better today. That’s it. To say humiliation, that’s too much. In sport, sometimes you win, sometimes the opponent wins."</p>

<p>Ancelotti, a serial winner with Real Madrid added that it wasn't a critical situation for the club but they needed to fix the situation soon.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“It’s not a critical situation, but it’s a difficult situation. You have difficult moments in a season and we have to fix this soon with commitment."</p>

<p>"When you concede three goals, you need to be better in defence. We need to work on that. We’re not playing well right now. But, this team has the quality to be competitive in all the tournaments we have left. Real Madrid usually win finals, and we’ve lost this one, but we have a long season left.”</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-the-death-of-possession-football-542811"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: The death of possession football?</strong></a></p>

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<p>Ancelloti's med were slow off the blocks as Barcelona's forward line&nbsp;ran rings around the Real Madrid defence.</p>

<p>Teenager Gavi was at the centre of Barcelona's spirited display as he scored one and set up other two goals to gift the Catalans their first silverware of the season.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Though Karim Benzema netted a late goal, it proved too little, too late as Madrid could not&nbsp;mount&nbsp;a comeback, as they had done all throughout their last season campaign.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Barcelona are currently at the top of the La Liga table while Madrid, three points adrift, find themselves in the second spot,&nbsp;</p>

<p>After the Supercopa loss, Real Madrid's next major knockout contest will come against Liverpool in the UEFA Champions League Round of 16 match.</p>

<p>The first leg tie will be played at Anfield, under the lights on February 15. Meanwhile, the second leg tie will be played a month later on March 15 at the Santiago Bernabéu.</p>

<p>While most pundits have given Real Madrid an advantage, the performance against Barcelona might have evened the scales a bit.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/real-madrids-grit-got-them-to-champions-league-final-says-manager-carlo-ancelotti-481914"><strong>Read more:&nbsp;Real Madrid's grit got them to Champions League final, says manager Carlo Ancelotti</strong></a></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti sounded defensive in the aftermath of the 3-1 loss against rivals Barcelona in the Spanish Supercopa final on Sunday. Ancelotti said the talks of 'sporting humiliation' after the defeat were disrespectful.

Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti sounded defensive in the aftermath of the 3-1 loss against rivals Barcelona in the Spanish Supercopa final on Sunday. Ancelotti said the talks of 'sporting humiliation' after the defeat were disrespectful. “To say this was a sporting humiliation is a lack of respect," said Ancelotti in a post-match conference before adding, "We lost a match to Barcelona, just as we won a match against them in La Liga. Barcelona were better today. That’s it. To say humiliation, that’s too much. In sport, sometimes you win, sometimes the opponent wins." Ancelotti, a serial winner with Real Madrid added that it wasn't a critical situation for the club but they needed to fix the situation soon. “It’s not a critical situation, but it’s a difficult situation. You have difficult moments in a season and we have to fix this soon with commitment." "When you concede three goals, you need to be better in defence. We need to work on that. We’re not playing well right now. But, this team has the quality to be competitive in all the tournaments we have left. Real Madrid usually win finals, and we’ve lost this one, but we have a long season left.” WATCH | Gravitas: The death of possession football? × Ancelloti's med were slow off the blocks as Barcelona's forward line ran rings around the Real Madrid defence. Teenager Gavi was at the centre of Barcelona's spirited display as he scored one and set up other two goals to gift the Catalans their first silverware of the season. Though Karim Benzema netted a late goal, it proved too little, too late as Madrid could not mount a comeback, as they had done all throughout their last season campaign. Barcelona are currently at the top of the La Liga table while Madrid, three points adrift, find themselves in the second spot, After the Supercopa loss, Real Madrid's next major knockout contest will come against Liverpool in the UEFA Champions League Round of 16 match. The first leg tie will be played at Anfield, under the lights on February 15. Meanwhile, the second leg tie will be played a month later on March 15 at the Santiago Bernabéu. While most pundits have given Real Madrid an advantage, the performance against Barcelona might have evened the scales a bit. Read more: Real Madrid's grit got them to Champions League final, says manager Carlo Ancelotti (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Talks of 'sporting humiliation' disrespectful: Carlo Ancelotti after defeat against Barcelona

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<p>In what comes as a gigantic step for women's cricket and especially Women's IPL (WIPL), broadcasting giant Viacom 18 on Monday acquired the media rights for the tournament.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Viacom 18 won media rights for WIPL for a period of five years (2023-2027) for $116.7 million with per match value coming down to approximately $857,000. The tournament will be starting in March 2023 and is likely to be completed in a one-month window.&nbsp;</p>

<p>BCCI Secretary Jay Shah took to Twitter to inform about the landmark deal and said it was a historic mandate for the women's game.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"After pay equity, today's bidding for media rights for Women's IPL marks another historic mandate. It's a big and decisive step for empowerment of women's cricket in India, which will ensure participation of women from all ages. A new dawn indeed!"</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Congratulations <a href="https://twitter.com/viacom18?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@viacom18</a> for winning the Women’s <a href="https://twitter.com/IPL?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IPL</a> media rights. Thank you for your faith in <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BCCI</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCIWomen?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BCCIWomen</a>. Viacom has committed INR 951 crores which means per match value of INR 7.09 crores for next 5 years (2023-27). This is massive for Women’s Cricket 🙏🇮🇳</p>
— Jay Shah (@JayShah) <a href="https://twitter.com/JayShah/status/1614871809547194368?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 16, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>A closed-bid auction method was used to decide the winner. Eight bidders had bought the tender document for the media rights which was put on sale last month.</p>

<p>Unlike IPL media rights, which were divided into different categories and awarded to different broadcasters, Viacom 18 will have access to&nbsp;linear (TV), digital and combined (TV and digital).</p>

<p>It was in October last year that the BCCI, after years of dillydallying finally decided to greenlight the women's version of the IPL.</p>

<p>The inaugural edition is expected to be a five-team affair.&nbsp;According to various media reports, owners of men's IPL teams such as Delhi Capitals, Chennai Super Kings, Kolkata Knight Riders, Sunrisers Hyderabad, Gujarat Titans ad Punjab Kings are among those who have submitted bids.&nbsp;</p>

<p>BCCI has set January 23 as the deadline for technical bids for the same to be submitted. Meanwhile, the maiden players'&nbsp;auction is expected to take place next month.</p>

<p>WIPL will replace the Women’s T20 Challenge, which was a two-team tournament that started off in 2018 with just one match. It then grew to a three-team exhibition tournament in the following year, and then took place in 2020 and 2022 as well.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-approves-womens-ipl-first-edition-to-be-staged-in-2023-526462" target="_blank"><strong>Read more: BCCI approves women's IPL, first edition to be staged in 2023</strong></a></p>

<p>Women's cricket has been on the precipice of a major turnaround for quite some time now. WIPL is expected to&nbsp;revolutionise the women's game, just the way IPL did for the men's game.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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In what comes as a gigantic step for women's cricket and especially Women's IPL (WIPL), broadcasting giant Viacom 18 on Monday acquired the media rights for the tournament.

In what comes as a gigantic step for women's cricket and especially Women's IPL (WIPL), broadcasting giant Viacom 18 on Monday acquired the media rights for the tournament. Viacom 18 won media rights for WIPL for a period of five years (2023-2027) for $116.7 million with per match value coming down to approximately $857,000. The tournament will be starting in March 2023 and is likely to be completed in a one-month window. BCCI Secretary Jay Shah took to Twitter to inform about the landmark deal and said it was a historic mandate for the women's game. "After pay equity, today's bidding for media rights for Women's IPL marks another historic mandate. It's a big and decisive step for empowerment of women's cricket in India, which will ensure participation of women from all ages. A new dawn indeed!" Congratulations @viacom18 for winning the Women’s @IPL media rights. Thank you for your faith in @BCCI and @BCCIWomen. Viacom has committed INR 951 crores which means per match value of INR 7.09 crores for next 5 years (2023-27). This is massive for Women’s Cricket 🙏🇮🇳 — Jay Shah (@JayShah) January 16, 2023 × A closed-bid auction method was used to decide the winner. Eight bidders had bought the tender document for the media rights which was put on sale last month. Unlike IPL media rights, which were divided into different categories and awarded to different broadcasters, Viacom 18 will have access to linear (TV), digital and combined (TV and digital). It was in October last year that the BCCI, after years of dillydallying finally decided to greenlight the women's version of the IPL. The inaugural edition is expected to be a five-team affair. According to various media reports, owners of men's IPL teams such as Delhi Capitals, Chennai Super Kings, Kolkata Knight Riders, Sunrisers Hyderabad, Gujarat Titans ad Punjab Kings are among those who have submitted bids. BCCI has set January 23 as the deadline for technical bids for the same to be submitted. Meanwhile, the maiden players' auction is expected to take place next month. WIPL will replace the Women’s T20 Challenge, which was a two-team tournament that started off in 2018 with just one match. It then grew to a three-team exhibition tournament in the following year, and then took place in 2020 and 2022 as well. Read more: BCCI approves women's IPL, first edition to be staged in 2023 Women's cricket has been on the precipice of a major turnaround for quite some time now. WIPL is expected to revolutionise the women's game, just the way IPL did for the men's game. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

BIG! Viacom 18 bags Women's IPL media rights for $116 million over a five-year period

<p>Defending champion Rafael Nadal battled past a man 15 years his junior and kickstart his bid for a record-extending 23rd Grand Slam title at the Australian Open Monday.</p>

<p>The Spanish top seed unleashed some of his trademark hammer forehands, but also 46 unforced errors, before wearing down Briton Jack Draper 7-5, 2-6, 6-4, 6-1 in blistering heat on Rod Laver Arena.</p>

<p>It put him into the second round for the 17th time and stretched his win-loss record at Melbourne Park to 77-15.</p>

<p>He will next play Mackenzie Mcdonald, who beat fellow American Brandon Nakashima in a five-set thriller.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Super happy to be back here in Australia one more time. It's like the 19th season in the professional tour so very excited about this new beginning," he said.</p>

<p>"It's a victory I needed. I played against one of the toughest opponents possible in the first round. He's young, he has the power and I think he has a great future in front of him."</p>

<p>But it was a tough slog for the 36-year-old who had lost six of his past seven matches, including his opening two this year.</p>

<p>Little separated them in a first set notable for a bizarre incident in which Nadal complained one his of racquets had gone missing.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-puzzled-rafael-nadal-looks-for-his-racquet-after-the-ballboy-nicks-it-553035"><strong>WATCH | Puzzled Rafael Nadal looks for his racquet after the ballboy nicks it</strong></a></p>

<p>He kept his cool and waited for his chance, which came at 6-5 on Draper's serve when he earned a set point and converted with a searing cross-court winner.</p>

<p>But Nadal lost focus in the second set as Draper raised his game and raced to a 4-0 lead before sealing the set.</p>

<p>The Spaniard regrouped and broke early in the third set to move 4-1 in front, winning the long rallies.</p>

<p>Draper needed repeated treatment on his upper right leg, but against the odds broke back before Nadal again stepped up.</p>

<p>Draper was clearly struggling, grimacing in pain at times, and Nadal showed no mercy to race through the fourth set to victory.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/tennis-legend-boris-becker-set-to-make-commentary-return-for-the-australian-open-549364"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Tennis legend Boris Becker set to make commentary return for the Australian Open</strong></a></p>

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<p>Nadal created history on the same court last year with his five-set victory over Daniil Medvedev in the final.</p>

<p>It saw him claim ownership of the record for most Grand Slam men's singles titles on 21 ahead of Novak Djokovic and Roger Federer.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He added a 22nd at Roland Garros, while Djokovic won Wimbledon to move onto 21.</p>

<p>Nadal's 2022 run in Melbourne came in the absence of nine-time champion Djokovic, who is back this year and begins his campaign on Tuesday.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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Defending champion Rafael Nadal battled past a man 15 years his junior and kickstart his bid for a record-extending 23rd Grand Slam title at the Australian Open Monday.

Defending champion Rafael Nadal battled past a man 15 years his junior and kickstart his bid for a record-extending 23rd Grand Slam title at the Australian Open Monday. The Spanish top seed unleashed some of his trademark hammer forehands, but also 46 unforced errors, before wearing down Briton Jack Draper 7-5, 2-6, 6-4, 6-1 in blistering heat on Rod Laver Arena. It put him into the second round for the 17th time and stretched his win-loss record at Melbourne Park to 77-15. He will next play Mackenzie Mcdonald, who beat fellow American Brandon Nakashima in a five-set thriller. "Super happy to be back here in Australia one more time. It's like the 19th season in the professional tour so very excited about this new beginning," he said. "It's a victory I needed. I played against one of the toughest opponents possible in the first round. He's young, he has the power and I think he has a great future in front of him." But it was a tough slog for the 36-year-old who had lost six of his past seven matches, including his opening two this year. Little separated them in a first set notable for a bizarre incident in which Nadal complained one his of racquets had gone missing. WATCH | Puzzled Rafael Nadal looks for his racquet after the ballboy nicks it He kept his cool and waited for his chance, which came at 6-5 on Draper's serve when he earned a set point and converted with a searing cross-court winner. But Nadal lost focus in the second set as Draper raised his game and raced to a 4-0 lead before sealing the set. The Spaniard regrouped and broke early in the third set to move 4-1 in front, winning the long rallies. Draper needed repeated treatment on his upper right leg, but against the odds broke back before Nadal again stepped up. Draper was clearly struggling, grimacing in pain at times, and Nadal showed no mercy to race through the fourth set to victory. WATCH | Tennis legend Boris Becker set to make commentary return for the Australian Open × Nadal created history on the same court last year with his five-set victory over Daniil Medvedev in the final. It saw him claim ownership of the record for most Grand Slam men's singles titles on 21 ahead of Novak Djokovic and Roger Federer. He added a 22nd at Roland Garros, while Djokovic won Wimbledon to move onto 21. Nadal's 2022 run in Melbourne came in the absence of nine-time champion Djokovic, who is back this year and begins his campaign on Tuesday. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Australian Open: Rafael Nadal overcomes Draper challenge in the opening round

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