<p>Novak Djokovic will never forget how it felt to be deported from Australia earlier this year but the Serb said his willingness to return for next month's Grand Slam at Melbourne Park shows the depth of feeling he has for the country. Djokovic was deported on the eve of the 2022 Australian Open in January for not being vaccinated against COVID-19 and received a three-year travel ban from the country.</p>

<p>However, the former world number one's visa ban was waived in November, opening up a path for Djokovic to target a 10th Australian Open crown and giving him a chance to tie Rafa Nadal's mark of 22 Grand Slam titles. "You can't forget those events, it's one of those things that stick with you," said Djokovic in his first news conference since returning to Australia. "It stays with you for the rest of your life. It's something I've never experienced before and hopefully never again, but it is a valuable life experience for me. But I have to move on and coming back to Australia speaks about how I feel about this country and how I feel about playing here."</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/heres-all-you-need-to-know-about-the-united-cup-2023-an-inaugural-edition-of-atp-wta-joint-event-547613">Here's all you need to know about the new ATP-WTA joint event - United Cup 2023</a></strong></p>

<p>Djokovic will warm up for the Australian Open by playing in the Adelaide International starting on Jan. 1 and is hoping for a warm reception from local fans. "It's a great place and the people in Adelaide, and generally in Australia, love&nbsp;tennis, love sports and it's a sporting nation so hopefully we're going to have a lot of people watching and we can have a good time," Djokovic said. "I'm hoping everything is going to be positive. Obviously, it's not something that I can predict. I'll do my best to play some good&nbsp;tennis&nbsp;and bring good emotions and good feelings to the crowd."</p>

<p>Djokovic said his overall experience in Australia had not been soured by what happened in January. "What happened 12 months ago was not easy to digest for some time but at the same time I had to move on. Those circumstances will not replace what I have lived in Melbourne and in Australia throughout my entire career," Djokovic said. "So I come with positive emotions and I really look forward to playing there. It's been my favourite Grand Slam, the results prove that."</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>


Novak Djokovic will never forget how it felt to be deported from Australia earlier this year but the Serb said his willingness to return for next month's Grand Slam at Melbourne Park shows the depth of feeling he has for the country.

Novak Djokovic will never forget how it felt to be deported from Australia earlier this year but the Serb said his willingness to return for next month's Grand Slam at Melbourne Park shows the depth of feeling he has for the country. Djokovic was deported on the eve of the 2022 Australian Open in January for not being vaccinated against COVID-19 and received a three-year travel ban from the country. However, the former world number one's visa ban was waived in November, opening up a path for Djokovic to target a 10th Australian Open crown and giving him a chance to tie Rafa Nadal's mark of 22 Grand Slam titles. "You can't forget those events, it's one of those things that stick with you," said Djokovic in his first news conference since returning to Australia. "It stays with you for the rest of your life. It's something I've never experienced before and hopefully never again, but it is a valuable life experience for me. But I have to move on and coming back to Australia speaks about how I feel about this country and how I feel about playing here." Also read: Here's all you need to know about the new ATP-WTA joint event - United Cup 2023 Djokovic will warm up for the Australian Open by playing in the Adelaide International starting on Jan. 1 and is hoping for a warm reception from local fans. "It's a great place and the people in Adelaide, and generally in Australia, love tennis, love sports and it's a sporting nation so hopefully we're going to have a lot of people watching and we can have a good time," Djokovic said. "I'm hoping everything is going to be positive. Obviously, it's not something that I can predict. I'll do my best to play some good tennis and bring good emotions and good feelings to the crowd." Djokovic said his overall experience in Australia had not been soured by what happened in January. "What happened 12 months ago was not easy to digest for some time but at the same time I had to move on. Those circumstances will not replace what I have lived in Melbourne and in Australia throughout my entire career," Djokovic said. "So I come with positive emotions and I really look forward to playing there. It's been my favourite Grand Slam, the results prove that." WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Former world number one Novak Djokovic can't forget being deported from Australia but is ready to move on

<p>On Tuesday (December 27), the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced India's T20I and ODI squad for their upcoming home series versus Sri Lanka, which gets underway on January 3. While some big names weren't part of the Hardik Pandya-led T20I squad, the ODI line-up&nbsp;feature&nbsp;Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, KL Rahul and the likes with no mention of Shikhar Dhawan, Rishabh Pant (due to a niggle on his knee) and Bhuvneshwar Kumar.</p>

<p>Moreover, all-rounder Hardik was also promoted as the ODI vice-captain despite&nbsp;Rahul's presence. Ever since Rohit took over, Rahul has been his deputy across formats but a string of low scores and Hardik's rise as a leader has resulted in the former losing out on his vice-captaincy post. In the Bangladesh Tests, Rahul had scores of&nbsp;22, 23, 10, and 2. Even in the ODIs, he scored a majestic 73&nbsp;in the series opener before not doing anything significant (scoring 14 and 8&nbsp;respectively) in the last two games. Thus, he knows he has to remain consistent or&nbsp;will lose his ODI spot as well in a World Cup year, with the mega event to be held later in 2023 in India.</p>

<p>Ahead of the SL ODIs, which commences on January 10, former Indian opener and Rahul's IPL franchise Lucknow Super Giants' (LSG) mentor Gautam Gambhir shared his take on the right-hander's form. "You can only control what you can control. You can't control selectors, you can't control what's going to happen in the next series. You got three ODIs against Sri Lanka. If you play that, just be in the present. That's all you can control. The moment you start to think about uncontrollable things, you're putting undue pressure on yourself,” Gambhir said in&nbsp;<i>Star Sports' A Chat with Champions</i>.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/they-couldnt-digest-how-pakistan-former-pcb-chief-ramiz-raja-once-again-takes-a-dig-at-india-547634"><strong>'They couldn't digest how Pakistan....': Former PCB chief Ramiz Raja again takes a dig at India</strong></a></p>

<p>Gambhir, the T20 and ODI World Cup medallist, further added, "If you don't perform, someone else will take your position. That's not only with Sanju or KL, it's with Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma as well. If they don't perform, you will start questioning about their positions too. That's what international cricket is about. No one is indispensable. So you got three ODIs, you bat in the middle-order, try and get those runs, because ultimately it's the performance that keeps you in the side. Not the name, not your talent."</p>

<p><strong>India’s squad for Sri Lanka T20Is:</strong> Hardik Pandya (Captain), Ishan Kishan (wk), Ruturaj Gaikwad, Shubman Gill, Suryakumar Yadav (VC), Deepak Hooda, Rahul Tripathi, Sanju Samson, Washington Sundar, Yuzvendra Chahal, Axar Patel, Arshdeep Singh, Harshal Patel, Umran Malik, Shivam Mavi, Mukesh Kumar.</p>

<p><strong>India’s squad for Sri Lanka ODIs:</strong> Rohit Sharma (Captain), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul (wk), Ishan Kishan (wk), Hardik Pandya (VC), Washington Sundar, Yuzvendra Chahal, Kuldeep Yadav, Axar Patel, Mohd. Shami, Mohd. Siraj, Umran Malik, Arshdeep Singh.</p>


On Tuesday (December 27), the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced India's T20I and ODI squad for their upcoming home series versus Sri Lanka, which gets underway on January 3.

On Tuesday (December 27), the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced India's T20I and ODI squad for their upcoming home series versus Sri Lanka, which gets underway on January 3. While some big names weren't part of the Hardik Pandya-led T20I squad, the ODI line-up feature Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, KL Rahul and the likes with no mention of Shikhar Dhawan, Rishabh Pant (due to a niggle on his knee) and Bhuvneshwar Kumar. Moreover, all-rounder Hardik was also promoted as the ODI vice-captain despite Rahul's presence. Ever since Rohit took over, Rahul has been his deputy across formats but a string of low scores and Hardik's rise as a leader has resulted in the former losing out on his vice-captaincy post. In the Bangladesh Tests, Rahul had scores of 22, 23, 10, and 2. Even in the ODIs, he scored a majestic 73 in the series opener before not doing anything significant (scoring 14 and 8 respectively) in the last two games. Thus, he knows he has to remain consistent or will lose his ODI spot as well in a World Cup year, with the mega event to be held later in 2023 in India. Ahead of the SL ODIs, which commences on January 10, former Indian opener and Rahul's IPL franchise Lucknow Super Giants' (LSG) mentor Gautam Gambhir shared his take on the right-hander's form. "You can only control what you can control. You can't control selectors, you can't control what's going to happen in the next series. You got three ODIs against Sri Lanka. If you play that, just be in the present. That's all you can control. The moment you start to think about uncontrollable things, you're putting undue pressure on yourself,” Gambhir said in Star Sports' A Chat with Champions. Also read: 'They couldn't digest how Pakistan....': Former PCB chief Ramiz Raja again takes a dig at India Gambhir, the T20 and ODI World Cup medallist, further added, "If you don't perform, someone else will take your position. That's not only with Sanju or KL, it's with Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma as well. If they don't perform, you will start questioning about their positions too. That's what international cricket is about. No one is indispensable. So you got three ODIs, you bat in the middle-order, try and get those runs, because ultimately it's the performance that keeps you in the side. Not the name, not your talent." India’s squad for Sri Lanka T20Is: Hardik Pandya (Captain), Ishan Kishan (wk), Ruturaj Gaikwad, Shubman Gill, Suryakumar Yadav (VC), Deepak Hooda, Rahul Tripathi, Sanju Samson, Washington Sundar, Yuzvendra Chahal, Axar Patel, Arshdeep Singh, Harshal Patel, Umran Malik, Shivam Mavi, Mukesh Kumar. India’s squad for Sri Lanka ODIs: Rohit Sharma (Captain), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul (wk), Ishan Kishan (wk), Hardik Pandya (VC), Washington Sundar, Yuzvendra Chahal, Kuldeep Yadav, Axar Patel, Mohd. Shami, Mohd. Siraj, Umran Malik, Arshdeep Singh.

'The moment you start...' - Gautam Gambhir shares his take on KL Rahul's struggles ahead of SL ODIs

<p>Runs continued to flow&nbsp;from Kane Williamson's blade on Day 4 of the first Test between Pakistan and New Zealand, in Karachi,&nbsp;on Thursday (December 29). The former skipper resumed the fourth and penultimate day's play batting on 105 along with nightwatchman Ish Sodhi with the visitors being two runs ahead of Pakistan's 438 before declaring at 612 for 9 courtesy of Williamson's brilliance.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>Williamson, who gave up Test captaincy early this month, remained unbeaten on 200, off 395 balls, to register most double tons by a New Zealand batter in the format. He has surpassed former Kiwi captain and keeper Brendon McCullum to now have five double tons in whites.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Most double tons for NZ in Test cricket:</strong></p>

<p><strong>5* - Kane Williamson</strong><br />
4 - Brendon McCullum<br />
3 - Stephen Fleming<br />
3 - Ross Taylor</p>

<p>Williamson came out to bat at No. 3 after a splendid 183-run opening stand between Tom Latham (113) and Devon Conway (92). He stitched valuable stands with&nbsp;Daryl Mitchell (42), Tom Blundell (47) and Sodhi (65)&nbsp; to keep the scoreboard moving while displaying utmost patience, class and grace in his knock, laced with 21 fours and a six.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/updated-icc-world-test-championship-points-table-after-australia-beat-south-africa-at-the-mcg-547600">Updated ICC World Test Championship points table after Australia beat South Africa at the MCG</a></strong></p>

<p><strong>Most Double Centuries among Fab Four:</strong></p>

<p>7 - Virat Kohli<br />
<strong>5 - Kane Williamson</strong><br />
5 - Joe Root<br />
4 - Steve Smith</p>

<p>Courtesy of Williamson, NZ have attained a mammoth 174-run lead in the first innings and have removed Abdullah Shafique and Shan Masood early in Pakistan's second essay. Will the tourists manage to rattle Pakistan on Day 5 and produce a result in another ordinary Test pitch in Pakistan? Only time will tell...</p>


Runs continued to flow from Kane Williamson's blade on Day 4 of the first Test between Pakistan and New Zealand, in Karachi, on Thursday (December 29). The former skipper resumed the fourth and penultimate day's play batting on 105 along with nightwatchman Ish Sodhi with the visitors being two runs ahead of Pakistan's 438 before declaring at 612 for 9 courtesy of Williamson's brilliance.

Runs continued to flow from Kane Williamson's blade on Day 4 of the first Test between Pakistan and New Zealand, in Karachi, on Thursday (December 29). The former skipper resumed the fourth and penultimate day's play batting on 105 along with nightwatchman Ish Sodhi with the visitors being two runs ahead of Pakistan's 438 before declaring at 612 for 9 courtesy of Williamson's brilliance. Williamson, who gave up Test captaincy early this month, remained unbeaten on 200, off 395 balls, to register most double tons by a New Zealand batter in the format. He has surpassed former Kiwi captain and keeper Brendon McCullum to now have five double tons in whites. Most double tons for NZ in Test cricket: 5* - Kane Williamson 4 - Brendon McCullum 3 - Stephen Fleming 3 - Ross Taylor Williamson came out to bat at No. 3 after a splendid 183-run opening stand between Tom Latham (113) and Devon Conway (92). He stitched valuable stands with Daryl Mitchell (42), Tom Blundell (47) and Sodhi (65) to keep the scoreboard moving while displaying utmost patience, class and grace in his knock, laced with 21 fours and a six. Also read: Updated ICC World Test Championship points table after Australia beat South Africa at the MCG Most Double Centuries among Fab Four: 7 - Virat Kohli 5 - Kane Williamson 5 - Joe Root 4 - Steve Smith Courtesy of Williamson, NZ have attained a mammoth 174-run lead in the first innings and have removed Abdullah Shafique and Shan Masood early in Pakistan's second essay. Will the tourists manage to rattle Pakistan on Day 5 and produce a result in another ordinary Test pitch in Pakistan? Only time will tell...

Pak vs NZ: Kane Williamson registers most double ton by a New Zealand batter during Day 4 of 1st Test

<p>A lot of changes have taken place in Pakistan cricket in recent times. Ramiz Raja, the former Pakistan captain, was recently sacked as the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB)'s chief with Najam Sethi taking over. Moreover, Shahid Afridi was named the interim chief selector with Abdul Razzaq and&nbsp;Rao Iftikhar Anjum joining him on the panel as well. In addition, a lot has been said about Babar Azam as a Test captain but he remains the full-time skipper as of now.</p>

<p>Ramiz's tenure came to a sudden end after Pakistan lost their first-ever Test series on home soil, with England&nbsp;drubbing them 3-0. A lot has been said and written about his stint as the PCB chief. Recently, Ramiz blasted Najam Sethi and criticised the functioning of the PCB and once again took a shot at Indian cricket while pointing out the achievements of the national side in&nbsp;his tenure.</p>

<p>“We gave outstanding performances in white-ball cricket. We played the Asia Cup final, India didn't play that. India, a billion-dollar industry, was left behind. <em>Tod phod hui, unhone apna chief selector, selection committee fire kar di, captain badal diye, kyunki unko hazam nahi hua ki Pakistan unse kaise aage nikal gaya</em>. (They fired their chief selector, selection committee, changed the captain because they couldn't digest how Pakistan went ahead of them),” Ramiz told&nbsp;<i>Suno TV.</i></p>

<p>Further, Ramiz talked&nbsp;about being sacked as PCB chairman and said,&nbsp;“This is just like France firing their entire board even after they played in the FIFA World Cup final.”</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/updated-icc-world-test-championship-points-table-after-australia-beat-south-africa-at-the-mcg-547600">Updated ICC World Test Championship points table after Australia beat South Africa at the MCG</a></strong></p>

<p>The former Pakistan star also revealed that he empowered Babar Azam at all times and ensured his best performances as leader of the side. "I tried my level best to keep this team united. I empowered Babar Azam. Cricket is one of those rare sports where captaincy is relevant. If your captain is powerful, results will come, and we have given results,”&nbsp;Ramiz concluded.</p>

<p>At present, PCB has threatened legal action against&nbsp;Ramiz&nbsp;over his outbursts&nbsp;on his successor Najam Sethi. Thus, there is a lot happening in Pakistan cricket amid the national side's ongoing home Tests versus New Zealand.<br />
<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>


A lot of changes have taken place in Pakistan cricket in recent times. Ramiz Raja, the former Pakistan captain, was recently sacked as the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB)'s chief with Najam Sethi taking over.

A lot of changes have taken place in Pakistan cricket in recent times. Ramiz Raja, the former Pakistan captain, was recently sacked as the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB)'s chief with Najam Sethi taking over. Moreover, Shahid Afridi was named the interim chief selector with Abdul Razzaq and Rao Iftikhar Anjum joining him on the panel as well. In addition, a lot has been said about Babar Azam as a Test captain but he remains the full-time skipper as of now. Ramiz's tenure came to a sudden end after Pakistan lost their first-ever Test series on home soil, with England drubbing them 3-0. A lot has been said and written about his stint as the PCB chief. Recently, Ramiz blasted Najam Sethi and criticised the functioning of the PCB and once again took a shot at Indian cricket while pointing out the achievements of the national side in his tenure. “We gave outstanding performances in white-ball cricket. We played the Asia Cup final, India didn't play that. India, a billion-dollar industry, was left behind. Tod phod hui, unhone apna chief selector, selection committee fire kar di, captain badal diye, kyunki unko hazam nahi hua ki Pakistan unse kaise aage nikal gaya. (They fired their chief selector, selection committee, changed the captain because they couldn't digest how Pakistan went ahead of them),” Ramiz told Suno TV. Further, Ramiz talked about being sacked as PCB chairman and said, “This is just like France firing their entire board even after they played in the FIFA World Cup final.” Also read: Updated ICC World Test Championship points table after Australia beat South Africa at the MCG The former Pakistan star also revealed that he empowered Babar Azam at all times and ensured his best performances as leader of the side. "I tried my level best to keep this team united. I empowered Babar Azam. Cricket is one of those rare sports where captaincy is relevant. If your captain is powerful, results will come, and we have given results,” Ramiz concluded. At present, PCB has threatened legal action against Ramiz over his outbursts on his successor Najam Sethi. Thus, there is a lot happening in Pakistan cricket amid the national side's ongoing home Tests versus New Zealand. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

'They couldn't digest how Pakistan....': Former PCB chief Ramiz Raja again takes a dig at India

<p>On Thursday (December 29), Pat Cummins-led Australia thrashed South Africa by an innings and 182 runs to win the second and penultimate Test at the iconic MCG, Melbourne. Resuming the fourth day's play, SA were 15 for 1 and trailing by 371 more runs. Despite some fight from Temba Bavuma (65) and starts from&nbsp;Theunis de Bruyn and Kyle Verreynne, the Proteas only managed 204 all-out to concede a big win for the hosts.</p>

<p>Everything clicked for the Aussies from the word go. Opting to bowl first, Australia rode on Cameron Green's five-fer to dismiss the visitors for 189 before piling up a mammoth 575 for 8 decl. with David Warner (200) and Alex Carey (111) being the top performers. The South Africans somehow managed to cross the 200-run mark but have lost their fourth Test in a row to fall behind in the race to enter the ICC World Test Championship final. <strong>Here's the updated WTC points table after Australia thrash SA:</strong></p>

<p><img alt="Updated WTC points table after Aus beat SA" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="787c0892-cdf5-43f5-ac39-ad2c8ce743a5" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Aus%20beat%20SA%20WTC%20PT.png" /></p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/after-t20-world-cup-success-mcc-keen-on-hosting-india-pakistan-test-at-the-mcg-547561">After T20 World Cup success, MCC keen on hosting India-Pakistan Test at the MCG</a></strong></p>

<p>At the post-match presentation, skipper Cummins said, "It (the win) is right up there. We have had some great contests with South Africa, hadn't won against them at home in 20 years I think, so pretty special. I thought how Warner and Smith batted in the heat was pretty gutsy. Starc and Green as well, put their injuries behind and turned up. Davey was superb, you could see his energy from ball one and to do it in his 100th Test is awesome. He (Carey) has really cemented his place in the Test side and to get a hundred in a Boxing Day Test is special. He's (Lyon) good to go, just winded himself. Starc and Green will definitely miss the Sydney Test. Boxing Day is a pretty huge event and this year was even more special as we celebrated Warnie."</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Elgar pointed out, "It is not easy at the moment. That was bit of a hammering. We have got to do lot of reflection going ahead once again. There are a few positives coming out of this Test but not a lot. The inexperience with the bat in hand, we lost a lot of batters in the last few years and that has played a role. But that also gave an opportunity for the newcomers to come out, perform and stake a permanent claim in this batting group. But it is definitely hurting us at the moment."</p>

<p>Australia are nearing qualification for the WTC final with this win. They will aim for a series whitewash, at the SCG, Sydney, before their four Tests in India next year.</p>


On Thursday (December 29), Pat Cummins-led Australia thrashed South Africa by an innings and 182 runs to win the second and penultimate Test at the iconic MCG, Melbourne.

On Thursday (December 29), Pat Cummins-led Australia thrashed South Africa by an innings and 182 runs to win the second and penultimate Test at the iconic MCG, Melbourne. Resuming the fourth day's play, SA were 15 for 1 and trailing by 371 more runs. Despite some fight from Temba Bavuma (65) and starts from Theunis de Bruyn and Kyle Verreynne, the Proteas only managed 204 all-out to concede a big win for the hosts. Everything clicked for the Aussies from the word go. Opting to bowl first, Australia rode on Cameron Green's five-fer to dismiss the visitors for 189 before piling up a mammoth 575 for 8 decl. with David Warner (200) and Alex Carey (111) being the top performers. The South Africans somehow managed to cross the 200-run mark but have lost their fourth Test in a row to fall behind in the race to enter the ICC World Test Championship final. Here's the updated WTC points table after Australia thrash SA: Also read: After T20 World Cup success, MCC keen on hosting India-Pakistan Test at the MCG At the post-match presentation, skipper Cummins said, "It (the win) is right up there. We have had some great contests with South Africa, hadn't won against them at home in 20 years I think, so pretty special. I thought how Warner and Smith batted in the heat was pretty gutsy. Starc and Green as well, put their injuries behind and turned up. Davey was superb, you could see his energy from ball one and to do it in his 100th Test is awesome. He (Carey) has really cemented his place in the Test side and to get a hundred in a Boxing Day Test is special. He's (Lyon) good to go, just winded himself. Starc and Green will definitely miss the Sydney Test. Boxing Day is a pretty huge event and this year was even more special as we celebrated Warnie." Meanwhile, Elgar pointed out, "It is not easy at the moment. That was bit of a hammering. We have got to do lot of reflection going ahead once again. There are a few positives coming out of this Test but not a lot. The inexperience with the bat in hand, we lost a lot of batters in the last few years and that has played a role. But that also gave an opportunity for the newcomers to come out, perform and stake a permanent claim in this batting group. But it is definitely hurting us at the moment." Australia are nearing qualification for the WTC final with this win. They will aim for a series whitewash, at the SCG, Sydney, before their four Tests in India next year.

Updated ICC World Test Championship points table after Australia beat South Africa at the MCG

<p>On Thursday (December 29), Australia ended South Africa's miseries in the second and penultimate Test, at the MCG, Melbourne, to win by an innings and 182 runs. From the word go, Australia have dominated proceedings and showed no signs of slowing down on the fourth day, when play&nbsp;resumed with SA being 15 for 1 after conceding a whopping 386-run lead.</p>

<p>Theunis de Bruyn, Temba Bavuma (65), and Kyle Verreynne showed some resistance but never threatened the Pat Cummins-led Aussie bowlers as Scott Boland (2 for 49) and Nathan Lyon&nbsp;(3 for 58) accounted for regular breakthroughs whereas the likes of Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc and Cummins chipped in with a wicket each. The Proteas batters once again fell flat as the team has now lost four successive Tests to dent their chances of reaching the WTC final. Had it not been for their last-wicket partnership, which added 27 runs, it would've been their&nbsp;eighth consecutive innings where South Africa wouldn't have touched the 200-run mark.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-hardik-will-be-captain-and-vice-captain-leading-into-odi-wc-says-team-india-veteran-dinesh-karthik-547384">Rohit, Hardik will be captain and vice-captain leading into ODI WC, says Team India veteran Dinesh Karthik</a></strong></p>

<p>Australia got everything right from the coin toss. Opting to bowl first, they rode on IPL 2023 auction's star Cameron Green&nbsp;(5 for 27) to rattle SA for 189. David Warner, playing his 100th Test, scored a majestic 200 (255) whereas Alex Carey's 111 and fifties from Steve Smith (85), Travis Head, and Green took Australia to a mammoth 575-8 decl. Dean Elgar-led SA continued to slip further from thereon and showed no fight whatsoever with the bat.</p>

<p>For the Aussies, they have beaten South Africa at home after 17 years and strengthened their case to reach the final of the ongoing second cycle of the WTC. They will, however, aim to go for the kill and whitewash the series at the SCG, Sydney with the third and final Test commencing on January 04.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>


On Thursday (December 29), Australia ended South Africa's miseries in the second and penultimate Test, at the MCG, Melbourne, to win by an innings and 182 runs. From the word go, Australia have dominated proceedings and showed no signs of slowing down on the fourth day, when play resumed with SA being 15 for 1 after conceding a whopping 386-run lead.

On Thursday (December 29), Australia ended South Africa's miseries in the second and penultimate Test, at the MCG, Melbourne, to win by an innings and 182 runs. From the word go, Australia have dominated proceedings and showed no signs of slowing down on the fourth day, when play resumed with SA being 15 for 1 after conceding a whopping 386-run lead. Theunis de Bruyn, Temba Bavuma (65), and Kyle Verreynne showed some resistance but never threatened the Pat Cummins-led Aussie bowlers as Scott Boland (2 for 49) and Nathan Lyon (3 for 58) accounted for regular breakthroughs whereas the likes of Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc and Cummins chipped in with a wicket each. The Proteas batters once again fell flat as the team has now lost four successive Tests to dent their chances of reaching the WTC final. Had it not been for their last-wicket partnership, which added 27 runs, it would've been their eighth consecutive innings where South Africa wouldn't have touched the 200-run mark. Also read: Rohit, Hardik will be captain and vice-captain leading into ODI WC, says Team India veteran Dinesh Karthik Australia got everything right from the coin toss. Opting to bowl first, they rode on IPL 2023 auction's star Cameron Green (5 for 27) to rattle SA for 189. David Warner, playing his 100th Test, scored a majestic 200 (255) whereas Alex Carey's 111 and fifties from Steve Smith (85), Travis Head, and Green took Australia to a mammoth 575-8 decl. Dean Elgar-led SA continued to slip further from thereon and showed no fight whatsoever with the bat. For the Aussies, they have beaten South Africa at home after 17 years and strengthened their case to reach the final of the ongoing second cycle of the WTC. They will, however, aim to go for the kill and whitewash the series at the SCG, Sydney with the third and final Test commencing on January 04.

Australia thrash South Africa by an innings and 182 runs to win 2nd Test, take unassailable 2-0 lead

<p>On Tuesday (December 27), MS Dhoni's daughter Ziva broke the internet as she flaunted a Lionel Messi-signed Argentina jersey. Ever since Argentina broke their 36-year World Cup drought by winning the Qatar 2022 finale, the legendary footballer has made sure to be there for his fans and send out his signed jerseys. After BCCI secretary Jay Shah received one last week, Ziva also got her wish fulfilled and was on cloud nine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ziva shared the pictures of the Argentina jersey on her Instagram account, handled by her parents, and the post read, "Like father, like daughter"&nbsp;&nbsp;<strong>Here's the viral post:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CmrNmvUIzr2/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by ZIVA SINGH DHONI (@ziva_singh_dhoni)</a></p>
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<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/greatest-footballer-in-my-lifetime-ronaldo-or-messi-liverpool-manager-jurgen-klopp-shares-his-pick-547067">'Greatest footballer in my lifetime': Ronaldo or Messi? Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp shares his pick</a></strong></p>

<p>It is to be noted that Dhoni is a huge football fan and also a Messi follower. He is not active on social media platforms -- especially following his international retirement -- but his wife Sakshi and daughter Ziva continue to post regularly on the social media platforms. The former Indian captain is enjoying his break and will return to the 22-yard cricket strip during the forthcoming IPL 2023.&nbsp;</p>

<p>For Messi, the 35-year-old had a memorable run in the Qatar World Cup, scoring seven goals and leading his side to the coveted title. He also won the Golden Ball award for the second time after the summit clash, where Argentina defeated France 4-2 in penalties after the match ended in a riveting 3-3 scoreline.</p>


On Tuesday (December 27), MS Dhoni's daughter Ziva broke the internet as she flaunted a Lionel Messi-signed Argentina jersey. Ever since Argentina broke their 36-year World Cup drought by winning the Qatar 2022 finale, the legendary footballer has made sure to be there for his fans and send out his signed jerseys.

On Tuesday (December 27), MS Dhoni's daughter Ziva broke the internet as she flaunted a Lionel Messi-signed Argentina jersey. Ever since Argentina broke their 36-year World Cup drought by winning the Qatar 2022 finale, the legendary footballer has made sure to be there for his fans and send out his signed jerseys. After BCCI secretary Jay Shah received one last week, Ziva also got her wish fulfilled and was on cloud nine. Ziva shared the pictures of the Argentina jersey on her Instagram account, handled by her parents, and the post read, "Like father, like daughter" Here's the viral post: View this post on Instagram A post shared by ZIVA SINGH DHONI (@ziva_singh_dhoni) × Also read: 'Greatest footballer in my lifetime': Ronaldo or Messi? Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp shares his pick It is to be noted that Dhoni is a huge football fan and also a Messi follower. He is not active on social media platforms -- especially following his international retirement -- but his wife Sakshi and daughter Ziva continue to post regularly on the social media platforms. The former Indian captain is enjoying his break and will return to the 22-yard cricket strip during the forthcoming IPL 2023. For Messi, the 35-year-old had a memorable run in the Qatar World Cup, scoring seven goals and leading his side to the coveted title. He also won the Golden Ball award for the second time after the summit clash, where Argentina defeated France 4-2 in penalties after the match ended in a riveting 3-3 scoreline.

VIRAL: Ziva Dhoni breaks the internet as she flaunts Lionel Messi's signed Argentina jersey - See pics

<p>On Tuesday (December 27), the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) selection committee -- under outgoing chief Chetan Sharma -- announced India's squads for the white-ball home series versus Sri Lanka, which gets underway next year on January 03 in Mumbai. As expected, Hardik Pandya has once again been named as the captain of the T20I squad with no big guns available whereas Rohit Sharma will return to take charge of the ODI line-up after his thumb injury during the Bangladesh tour. Hardik has also been promoted as the new ODI vice-captain (despite KL Rahul's presence).&nbsp;</p>

<p>Some of the notable factors from the T20I line-up is that Suryakumar Yadav has been named as the vice-captain, which doesn't include the likes of Rahul, Rishabh Pant, etc. Meanwhile, it is a young squad including the likes of Shubman Gill, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Ishan Kishan, Sanju Samson, Axar Patel, Umran Malik, Mukesh Kumar (recently bought by Delhi Capitals in IPL 2023 mini-auction for INR 5 crores), etc. It gives one a sneak peek of the selectors' mindset keeping in view the next edition of the T20 World Cup, in the West Indies and USA, in 2024.</p>

<p>Talking about the ODI squad, Pant remains absent from it as well. Pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar is also not part of both squads. The biggest omission is Shikhar Dhawan, who has struggled for runs and has seen a sharp decline in his strike rate amid rising stocks of Kishan and Gill. Meanwhile, Md Shami also returned whereas the likes of Rahul and Kohli will feature straightaway in the 50-over series. There's no mention of Jasprit Bumrah and Ravindra Jadeja as the duo are expected to return for the New Zealand white-ball series at home.&nbsp;</p>

<p>BCCI's official Twitter handle released the squads via separate posts:&nbsp;</p>

<p><img alt="India ODI squad vs SL" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c72827aa-779f-4f97-adb1-9efb4b2210aa" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Screenshot_2022-12-27-22-47-17-740_com.twitter.android.jpg" /></p>

<p><img alt="India T20I squad vs SL" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="29163f86-88d5-4755-a8af-249538e5ed36" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Screenshot_2022-12-27-22-48-20-812_com.twitter.android.jpg" /></p>

<p>India's home series versus the Lankans gets underway on January 3 and will conclude on January 15. After that, they will host NZ for a white-ball series before facing Australia in four Tests and three ODIs in their own den.</p>

<p>India’s squad for Sri Lanka T20Is: Hardik Pandya (Captain), Ishan Kishan (wk), Ruturaj Gaikwad, Shubman Gill, Suryakumar Yadav (VC), Deepak Hooda, Rahul Tripathi, Sanju Samson, Washington Sundar, Yuzvendra Chahal, Axar Patel, Arshdeep Singh, Harshal Patel, Umran Malik, Shivam Mavi, Mukesh Kumar.</p>

<p>India’s squad for Sri Lanka ODIs: Rohit Sharma (Captain), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul (wk), Ishan Kishan (wk), Hardik Pandya (VC), Washington Sundar, Yuzvendra Chahal, Kuldeep Yadav, Axar Patel, Mohd. Shami, Mohd. Siraj, Umran Malik, Arshdeep Singh.</p>


On Tuesday (December 27), the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) selection committee -- under outgoing chief Chetan Sharma -- announced India's squads for the white-ball home series versus Sri Lanka, which gets underway next year on January 03 in Mumbai.

On Tuesday (December 27), the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) selection committee -- under outgoing chief Chetan Sharma -- announced India's squads for the white-ball home series versus Sri Lanka, which gets underway next year on January 03 in Mumbai. As expected, Hardik Pandya has once again been named as the captain of the T20I squad with no big guns available whereas Rohit Sharma will return to take charge of the ODI line-up after his thumb injury during the Bangladesh tour. Hardik has also been promoted as the new ODI vice-captain (despite KL Rahul's presence). Some of the notable factors from the T20I line-up is that Suryakumar Yadav has been named as the vice-captain, which doesn't include the likes of Rahul, Rishabh Pant, etc. Meanwhile, it is a young squad including the likes of Shubman Gill, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Ishan Kishan, Sanju Samson, Axar Patel, Umran Malik, Mukesh Kumar (recently bought by Delhi Capitals in IPL 2023 mini-auction for INR 5 crores), etc. It gives one a sneak peek of the selectors' mindset keeping in view the next edition of the T20 World Cup, in the West Indies and USA, in 2024. Talking about the ODI squad, Pant remains absent from it as well. Pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar is also not part of both squads. The biggest omission is Shikhar Dhawan, who has struggled for runs and has seen a sharp decline in his strike rate amid rising stocks of Kishan and Gill. Meanwhile, Md Shami also returned whereas the likes of Rahul and Kohli will feature straightaway in the 50-over series. There's no mention of Jasprit Bumrah and Ravindra Jadeja as the duo are expected to return for the New Zealand white-ball series at home. BCCI's official Twitter handle released the squads via separate posts: India's home series versus the Lankans gets underway on January 3 and will conclude on January 15. After that, they will host NZ for a white-ball series before facing Australia in four Tests and three ODIs in their own den. India’s squad for Sri Lanka T20Is: Hardik Pandya (Captain), Ishan Kishan (wk), Ruturaj Gaikwad, Shubman Gill, Suryakumar Yadav (VC), Deepak Hooda, Rahul Tripathi, Sanju Samson, Washington Sundar, Yuzvendra Chahal, Axar Patel, Arshdeep Singh, Harshal Patel, Umran Malik, Shivam Mavi, Mukesh Kumar. India’s squad for Sri Lanka ODIs: Rohit Sharma (Captain), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul (wk), Ishan Kishan (wk), Hardik Pandya (VC), Washington Sundar, Yuzvendra Chahal, Kuldeep Yadav, Axar Patel, Mohd. Shami, Mohd. Siraj, Umran Malik, Arshdeep Singh.

IND vs SL: Hardik Pandya to lead in T20Is, promoted as ODI vice-captain with Shikhar Dhawan dropped

<p>David Warner dominated proceedings on Day 2 of the second and penultimate Test between Australia and South Africa at the MCG, Melbourne on Tuesday (December 27). After Australia rode on Cameron Green's five-fer to dismiss SA for a paltry 189 on the opening day, the hosts resumed the day's play at 45 for 1 and rode on Warner-Steve Smith (85)'s 239-run third-wicket stand to dictate terms with the opener returning with a majestic 200. Playing his 100th Test, the swashbuckling opener made the most of the special occasion and has put Australia in the driver's seat as they are now well-placed at 386-3 with an overall lead of 197 runs.</p>

<p>Speaking to the press after the end of the day's play, vice-captain Smith -- who missed out on a well-deserved hundred -- heaped praise on Warner, who retired hurt on 200 after suffering from cramps and has backed the senior pro to keep going in the purest format of the game. It is to be noted that the 36-year-old had been criticised for his poor run of form but the opener silenced his critics in style on Tuesday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I don't see why not," Smith said.&nbsp;"He's fit and I don't see any reason why he can't continue playing. "He was certainly seeing the ball pretty well today, so fingers crossed he can keep playing well and he can play for as long as he likes," he added.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/david-warner-injured-while-celebrating-wildly-after-slamming-200-vs-sa-in-mcg-test-gets-retired-hurt-watch-547081">David Warner injured while celebrating wildly after slamming 200 vs SA in MCG Test, gets retired hurt - WATCH</a></strong></p>

<p>Smith also went on to reveal the chats he had with Warner during their marathon partnership at the MCG. "The more he started to cramp the more shots he started to play and everything seemed to be coming out of the middle. It was an amazing knock and nice to be up the other end for a large chunk of it," Smith stated. "I was doing my thing and he was doing his. It was just like, 'Keep batting'. He was like, 'I’m cramping.' I was like, 'Good. Just keep going.'," added the former Aussie captain.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Warner became the first Australian and only the second batter, after England's Joe Root, to slam a double ton in his 100th Test. He also surpassed 17,000 international runs as an opener during his impressive knock versus the Proteas.&nbsp;</p>


David Warner dominated proceedings on Day 2 of the second and penultimate Test between Australia and South Africa at the MCG, Melbourne on Tuesday (December 27).

David Warner dominated proceedings on Day 2 of the second and penultimate Test between Australia and South Africa at the MCG, Melbourne on Tuesday (December 27). After Australia rode on Cameron Green's five-fer to dismiss SA for a paltry 189 on the opening day, the hosts resumed the day's play at 45 for 1 and rode on Warner-Steve Smith (85)'s 239-run third-wicket stand to dictate terms with the opener returning with a majestic 200. Playing his 100th Test, the swashbuckling opener made the most of the special occasion and has put Australia in the driver's seat as they are now well-placed at 386-3 with an overall lead of 197 runs. Speaking to the press after the end of the day's play, vice-captain Smith -- who missed out on a well-deserved hundred -- heaped praise on Warner, who retired hurt on 200 after suffering from cramps and has backed the senior pro to keep going in the purest format of the game. It is to be noted that the 36-year-old had been criticised for his poor run of form but the opener silenced his critics in style on Tuesday. "I don't see why not," Smith said. "He's fit and I don't see any reason why he can't continue playing. "He was certainly seeing the ball pretty well today, so fingers crossed he can keep playing well and he can play for as long as he likes," he added. Also read: David Warner injured while celebrating wildly after slamming 200 vs SA in MCG Test, gets retired hurt - WATCH Smith also went on to reveal the chats he had with Warner during their marathon partnership at the MCG. "The more he started to cramp the more shots he started to play and everything seemed to be coming out of the middle. It was an amazing knock and nice to be up the other end for a large chunk of it," Smith stated. "I was doing my thing and he was doing his. It was just like, 'Keep batting'. He was like, 'I’m cramping.' I was like, 'Good. Just keep going.'," added the former Aussie captain. Warner became the first Australian and only the second batter, after England's Joe Root, to slam a double ton in his 100th Test. He also surpassed 17,000 international runs as an opener during his impressive knock versus the Proteas.

'Don't see any reason why he can't': Smith backs Warner to continue in Tests after his MCG heroics vs SA

<p>Australian Open tournament director Craig Tiley said that he has "a great deal of confidence in the Australian public" that Novak Djokovic would be welcomed back to the country nearly a year after the Serb was deported from Australia for not being vaccinated against COVID-19. Djokovic arrived in Australia on Tuesday (December 27), ahead of his bid for a 10th men's singles title at next month's Australian Open. In November, the Australian government granted the Serbian a visa to travel to the Grand Slam event, saying it had decided to revoke the decision to cancel Djokovic's visa after considering all relevant factors.</p>

<p>Since the cancellation of Djokovic's visa in January 2022, all COVID-related border restrictions have been removed in Australia, including the requirement to provide evidence of vaccination status to enter the country. Tiley, speaking in Melbourne on Tuesday, said: "We're a very well-educated sporting public, particularly those who come to the&nbsp;tennis, they love their&nbsp;tennis, they love seeing greatness, they love seeing great athleticism, great matches. "And I have a lot of confidence that the fans will react like we hope they would react and have respect for that."</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/will-2023-australian-open-be-rafael-nadals-last-appearance-in-melbourne-spaniard-reveals-547330">Will 2023 Australian Open be Rafael Nadal's last at Melbourne Park? Spaniard reveals</a></strong></p>

<p>The former world number one won the season-ending ATP Finals last month and victory at the Australian Open would bring him level with Rafa Nadal on 22 Grand Slam titles. The 2023 Australian Open takes place at Melbourne Park from Jan. 16-29.</p>


Australian Open tournament director Craig Tiley said that he has "a great deal of confidence in the Australian public" that Novak Djokovic would be welcomed back to the country nearly a year after the Serb was deported from Australia for not being vaccinated against COVID-19.

Australian Open tournament director Craig Tiley said that he has "a great deal of confidence in the Australian public" that Novak Djokovic would be welcomed back to the country nearly a year after the Serb was deported from Australia for not being vaccinated against COVID-19. Djokovic arrived in Australia on Tuesday (December 27), ahead of his bid for a 10th men's singles title at next month's Australian Open. In November, the Australian government granted the Serbian a visa to travel to the Grand Slam event, saying it had decided to revoke the decision to cancel Djokovic's visa after considering all relevant factors. Since the cancellation of Djokovic's visa in January 2022, all COVID-related border restrictions have been removed in Australia, including the requirement to provide evidence of vaccination status to enter the country. Tiley, speaking in Melbourne on Tuesday, said: "We're a very well-educated sporting public, particularly those who come to the tennis, they love their tennis, they love seeing greatness, they love seeing great athleticism, great matches. "And I have a lot of confidence that the fans will react like we hope they would react and have respect for that." Also read: Will 2023 Australian Open be Rafael Nadal's last at Melbourne Park? Spaniard reveals The former world number one won the season-ending ATP Finals last month and victory at the Australian Open would bring him level with Rafa Nadal on 22 Grand Slam titles. The 2023 Australian Open takes place at Melbourne Park from Jan. 16-29.

Australian Open: Tournament director Craig Tiley confident Novak Djokovic will be well received

<p>On Wednesday (December 28), the Sports Minister Anurag Thakur revealed that India is seriously mulling bidding for the hosting rights of the 2036 Olympic Games. Thakur said that the&nbsp;government will consult with the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) and churn out a roadmap prior to the IOC session, to be held in Mumbai in 2023.</p>

<p>While the country has never been a host of the Olympics, Sports Minister remains optimistic of the nation to be able to pull it off. "If India is making news in every sector, from manufacturing to services, then why not in the field of sports? India is looking very seriously at bidding for the 2036 Olympics," Thakur told the Times of India.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wait-what-messis-qatar-hotel-room-to-be-converted-into-a-museum-after-argentinas-world-cup-success-547404">Wait, what? Messi's Qatar hotel room to be converted into a museum after Argentina's World Cup success</a></strong></p>

<p>Sports Minister Thakur even mentioned that Gujarat -- comprising of the iconic Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium in Motera,&nbsp;the largest cricket stadium in the globe --&nbsp;can be considered as a potential venue for the marquee event.&nbsp;"Gujarat has several times expressed interest in hosting the Olympics," he said. "They have the infrastructure. It's also part of the state government's manifesto to host the Olympics in Gujarat."</p>

<p>It is to be noted that multi-sport Games such as the Commonwealth Games in 2010, in New Delhi, and&nbsp;the Asian Games -- in 1982 and 1951 -- have been held in India earlier. However, if they manage to acquire the hosting rights for the 2036 Olympics it will be a huge deal for the Asian country. In the last edition of the Olympics, held in Tokyo, Japan, Indian contingent returned with its best-ever tally (with seven medals) with several athletes making a big name for themselves. Thus, Indian athletes are surely on the rise but it will be interesting to see if India is ready to pull off an event, of such a magnitude, in style as hosts.</p>


On Wednesday (December 28), the Sports Minister Anurag Thakur revealed that India is seriously mulling bidding for the hosting rights of the 2036 Olympic Games. Thakur said that the government will consult with the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) and churn out a roadmap prior to the IOC session, to be held in Mumbai in 2023.

On Wednesday (December 28), the Sports Minister Anurag Thakur revealed that India is seriously mulling bidding for the hosting rights of the 2036 Olympic Games. Thakur said that the government will consult with the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) and churn out a roadmap prior to the IOC session, to be held in Mumbai in 2023. While the country has never been a host of the Olympics, Sports Minister remains optimistic of the nation to be able to pull it off. "If India is making news in every sector, from manufacturing to services, then why not in the field of sports? India is looking very seriously at bidding for the 2036 Olympics," Thakur told the Times of India. Also read: Wait, what? Messi's Qatar hotel room to be converted into a museum after Argentina's World Cup success Sports Minister Thakur even mentioned that Gujarat -- comprising of the iconic Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium in Motera, the largest cricket stadium in the globe -- can be considered as a potential venue for the marquee event. "Gujarat has several times expressed interest in hosting the Olympics," he said. "They have the infrastructure. It's also part of the state government's manifesto to host the Olympics in Gujarat." It is to be noted that multi-sport Games such as the Commonwealth Games in 2010, in New Delhi, and the Asian Games -- in 1982 and 1951 -- have been held in India earlier. However, if they manage to acquire the hosting rights for the 2036 Olympics it will be a huge deal for the Asian country. In the last edition of the Olympics, held in Tokyo, Japan, Indian contingent returned with its best-ever tally (with seven medals) with several athletes making a big name for themselves. Thus, Indian athletes are surely on the rise but it will be interesting to see if India is ready to pull off an event, of such a magnitude, in style as hosts.

India is looking very seriously at bidding for 2036 Olympics, reveals Sports Minister Anurag Thakur

<p>The BCCI selecton committee, led by outgoing chief Chetan Sharma, selected India's white-ball squads for their upcoming home assignments versus Sri Lanka, starting on January 03. While Hardik Pandya was named the T20I captain, Rohit Sharma will continue to lead in ODIs and make his return straightaway during the 50-over series -- after a thumb injury he suffered during the Bangladesh tour. Meanwhile, the likes of Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Rishabh Pant didn't find a mention in both the squads whereas veteran opener Shikhar Dhawan was dropped from the ODI setup after his stocks having fallen considerably in recent times.&nbsp;</p>

<p>There has been no update shared by the selectors regarding the absence of Bhuvi and Pant. While a lot has been said and written about Pant's T20I career, which has still not taken off, he was expected to be a part of the ODI squad versus the Lankans. However, no reason was provided regarding his absence.&nbsp;According to several reports, it has been revealed that the swashbuckling keeper-batter has been left out to be able to recover from the niggle that he has been carrying in his knee for quite sometime.</p>

<p>According to reports in The Times of India, Rev Sportz, and Sports Tak, Pant has had&nbsp;a niggle on his knee for quite sometime and has, thus, been rested from the SL series. It is believed that&nbsp;the youngster has been asked to report at&nbsp;the National Cricket Academy (NCA), in Bengaluru, from January 3 for 15 days to work on his knee and regain full fitness before the upcoming New Zealand and Australia series on home soil.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In Pant's absence, Ishan Kishan and KL Rahul are India's wicketkeepers in the ODI setup whereas Ishan and Sanju Samson are the two glovesman present in the T20I line-up.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-hardik-will-be-captain-and-vice-captain-leading-into-odi-wc-says-team-india-veteran-dinesh-karthik-547384">Rohit, Hardik will be captain and vice-captain leading into ODI WC, says Team India veteran Dinesh Karthik</a></strong></p>

<p><strong>India’s squad for Sri Lanka T20Is:</strong>&nbsp;Hardik Pandya (Captain), Ishan Kishan (wk), Ruturaj Gaikwad, Shubman Gill, Suryakumar Yadav (VC), Deepak Hooda, Rahul Tripathi, Sanju Samson, Washington Sundar, Yuzvendra Chahal, Axar Patel, Arshdeep Singh, Harshal Patel, Umran Malik, Shivam Mavi, Mukesh Kumar.</p>

<p><strong>India’s squad for Sri Lanka ODIs:</strong>&nbsp;Rohit Sharma (Captain), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul (wk), Ishan Kishan (wk), Hardik Pandya (VC), Washington Sundar, Yuzvendra Chahal, Kuldeep Yadav, Axar Patel, Mohd. Shami, Mohd. Siraj, Umran Malik, Arshdeep Singh.</p>


The BCCI selecton committee, led by outgoing chief Chetan Sharma, selected India's white-ball squads for their upcoming home assignments versus Sri Lanka, starting on January 03.

The BCCI selecton committee, led by outgoing chief Chetan Sharma, selected India's white-ball squads for their upcoming home assignments versus Sri Lanka, starting on January 03. While Hardik Pandya was named the T20I captain, Rohit Sharma will continue to lead in ODIs and make his return straightaway during the 50-over series -- after a thumb injury he suffered during the Bangladesh tour. Meanwhile, the likes of Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Rishabh Pant didn't find a mention in both the squads whereas veteran opener Shikhar Dhawan was dropped from the ODI setup after his stocks having fallen considerably in recent times. There has been no update shared by the selectors regarding the absence of Bhuvi and Pant. While a lot has been said and written about Pant's T20I career, which has still not taken off, he was expected to be a part of the ODI squad versus the Lankans. However, no reason was provided regarding his absence. According to several reports, it has been revealed that the swashbuckling keeper-batter has been left out to be able to recover from the niggle that he has been carrying in his knee for quite sometime. According to reports in The Times of India, Rev Sportz, and Sports Tak, Pant has had a niggle on his knee for quite sometime and has, thus, been rested from the SL series. It is believed that the youngster has been asked to report at the National Cricket Academy (NCA), in Bengaluru, from January 3 for 15 days to work on his knee and regain full fitness before the upcoming New Zealand and Australia series on home soil. In Pant's absence, Ishan Kishan and KL Rahul are India's wicketkeepers in the ODI setup whereas Ishan and Sanju Samson are the two glovesman present in the T20I line-up. Also read: Rohit, Hardik will be captain and vice-captain leading into ODI WC, says Team India veteran Dinesh Karthik India’s squad for Sri Lanka T20Is: Hardik Pandya (Captain), Ishan Kishan (wk), Ruturaj Gaikwad, Shubman Gill, Suryakumar Yadav (VC), Deepak Hooda, Rahul Tripathi, Sanju Samson, Washington Sundar, Yuzvendra Chahal, Axar Patel, Arshdeep Singh, Harshal Patel, Umran Malik, Shivam Mavi, Mukesh Kumar. India’s squad for Sri Lanka ODIs: Rohit Sharma (Captain), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul (wk), Ishan Kishan (wk), Hardik Pandya (VC), Washington Sundar, Yuzvendra Chahal, Kuldeep Yadav, Axar Patel, Mohd. Shami, Mohd. Siraj, Umran Malik, Arshdeep Singh.

EXPLAINED: Why Rishabh Pant isn't part of India's home white-ball series vs Sri Lanka

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