Lionel Messi is having the time of his life. The 35-year-old striker led Argentina to their first-ever World Cup title, after 36 years, during the recently-held Qatar 2022 edition. After losing their tournament opener to Saudi Arabia, Argentina came back in style and won six games in a row to win the World Cup, beating defending champions France in a riveting final, in the penalty shootouts, to lift the trophy after 1986. Messi has, thus, etched his name in the history books with Argentina's triumph and is enjoying his time off, as reportedly he will rejoin his French club Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) by January 03.&nbsp;

After Argentina's historic triumph, in order to commemorate Messi's triumph at Qatar 2022 -- which was his final WC appearance -- the&nbsp;Qatar University plans to convert&nbsp;the Argentine captain's room into a mini-museum.&nbsp;They wrote, "The University of Qatar announces the allocation of the room built by the Argentine national team player Lionel Messi during the Qatar World Cup into a mini museum."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/viral-ziva-dhoni-breaks-the-internet-as-she-flaunts-lionel-messis-signed-argentina-jersey-see-pics-547260">VIRAL: Ziva Dhoni breaks the internet as she flaunts Lionel Messi's signed Argentina jersey - See pics</a>

"The room of&nbsp;Argentina&nbsp;national team player&nbsp;Lionel Messi&nbsp;will remain unchanged and will remain available only for visitors and not for residence," Hitmi al Hitmi, director of communications and public relations at Qatar University, told&nbsp;Qatari newspaper Al Sharq. "Messi's belongings and will be a legacy for students and future generations and a witness to the great achievements&nbsp;Messi&nbsp;has reached during the World Cup," he added.

After the WC victory, Messi posted a series of photos on his official Instagram account, not letting go of the trophy and even sleeping with it. The images went viral in no time and broke the internet. Recently, many of Messi's ardent fans have also received signed Argentina jersey from the legendary footballer, including MS Dhoni's daughter Ziva. Thus, Messi's craze has reached new levels post the Qatar WC. He will next be seen playing in PSG's encounter against Angers on January 11 in the Ligue 1.

Lionel Messi is having the time of his life. The 35-year-old striker led Argentina to their first-ever World Cup title, after 36 years, during the recently-held Qatar 2022 edition.

Lionel Messi is having the time of his life. The 35-year-old striker led Argentina to their first-ever World Cup title, after 36 years, during the recently-held Qatar 2022 edition. After losing their tournament opener to Saudi Arabia, Argentina came back in style and won six games in a row to win the World Cup, beating defending champions France in a riveting final, in the penalty shootouts, to lift the trophy after 1986. Messi has, thus, etched his name in the history books with Argentina's triumph and is enjoying his time off, as reportedly he will rejoin his French club Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) by January 03. After Argentina's historic triumph, in order to commemorate Messi's triumph at Qatar 2022 -- which was his final WC appearance -- the Qatar University plans to convert the Argentine captain's room into a mini-museum. They wrote, "The University of Qatar announces the allocation of the room built by the Argentine national team player Lionel Messi during the Qatar World Cup into a mini museum." Also read: VIRAL: Ziva Dhoni breaks the internet as she flaunts Lionel Messi's signed Argentina jersey - See pics "The room of Argentina national team player Lionel Messi will remain unchanged and will remain available only for visitors and not for residence," Hitmi al Hitmi, director of communications and public relations at Qatar University, told Qatari newspaper Al Sharq. "Messi's belongings and will be a legacy for students and future generations and a witness to the great achievements Messi has reached during the World Cup," he added. After the WC victory, Messi posted a series of photos on his official Instagram account, not letting go of the trophy and even sleeping with it. The images went viral in no time and broke the internet. Recently, many of Messi's ardent fans have also received signed Argentina jersey from the legendary footballer, including MS Dhoni's daughter Ziva. Thus, Messi's craze has reached new levels post the Qatar WC. He will next be seen playing in PSG's encounter against Angers on January 11 in the Ligue 1.

Wait, what? Messi's Qatar hotel room to be converted into a museum after Argentina's World Cup success

On Tuesday (December 27), the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) named India's T20I and ODI squad for their forthcoming white-ball home series versus Sri Lanka. The new year starts with India hosting Sri Lanka in three T20Is and ODIs each before New Zealand's white-ball tour and Australia's visit to the Asian country for four Tests and three ODIs. Hardik Pandya was appointed as the T20I squad whereas Rohit Sharma will return for the SL ODIs with the former being named his deputy despite KL Rahul's presence.&nbsp;

With Rahul being demoted and Hardik's stocks rising as captain, veteran Team India keeper-batter Dinesh Karthik feels Rohit and the star all-rounder will be the captain and vice-captain leading into the 2023 ODI World Cup. During a conversation in Cricbuzz, the 37-year-old pointed out that 'Hardik has thrown his name strongly in the mix' and will remain in the leadership group for quite long.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sri-lanka-tour-of-india-2023-from-schedule-to-live-telecast-everything-you-need-to-know-547281">Sri Lanka tour of India 2023: From schedule to live telecast - Everything you need to know</a>

Karthik told, "Absolutely. I think leadership definitely, for me, is a close call. And I think it will be between Rohit and Hardik Pandya. These two are the big names. I know KL Rahul has been the white-ball vice-captain, but I do think Hardik Pandya has thrown his name strongly in the mix and it will be captain vice-captain role between a Hardik and a Rohit in the coming 12 months, because I think he has shown his skills in the IPL as a leader and that might be coming through soon for Team India as well."

"So, for the moment, it looks like even though there are a lot of other leaders who have captained India in the recent 12 months because of the amount of cricket played with the likes of Shikhar Dhawan, KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant. All these players donning the captain's hat for a bit. Jasprit Bumrah as well. But for the moment, it will be a toss up between Rohit and Hardik Pandya or rather Rohit and Hardik Pandya will be the captain and vice-captain leading into the World Cup for sure," concluded the keeper-batter.&nbsp;

Hardik is being touted as the next T20I captain as the BCCI selectors want a new squad to take charge in the shortest format with the next edition of the T20 World Cup in 2024, in West Indies and USA.

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.

On Tuesday (December 27), the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) named India's T20I and ODI squad for their forthcoming white-ball home series versus Sri Lanka.

On Tuesday (December 27), the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) named India's T20I and ODI squad for their forthcoming white-ball home series versus Sri Lanka. The new year starts with India hosting Sri Lanka in three T20Is and ODIs each before New Zealand's white-ball tour and Australia's visit to the Asian country for four Tests and three ODIs. Hardik Pandya was appointed as the T20I squad whereas Rohit Sharma will return for the SL ODIs with the former being named his deputy despite KL Rahul's presence. With Rahul being demoted and Hardik's stocks rising as captain, veteran Team India keeper-batter Dinesh Karthik feels Rohit and the star all-rounder will be the captain and vice-captain leading into the 2023 ODI World Cup. During a conversation in Cricbuzz, the 37-year-old pointed out that 'Hardik has thrown his name strongly in the mix' and will remain in the leadership group for quite long. Also read: Sri Lanka tour of India 2023: From schedule to live telecast - Everything you need to know Karthik told, "Absolutely. I think leadership definitely, for me, is a close call. And I think it will be between Rohit and Hardik Pandya. These two are the big names. I know KL Rahul has been the white-ball vice-captain, but I do think Hardik Pandya has thrown his name strongly in the mix and it will be captain vice-captain role between a Hardik and a Rohit in the coming 12 months, because I think he has shown his skills in the IPL as a leader and that might be coming through soon for Team India as well." "So, for the moment, it looks like even though there are a lot of other leaders who have captained India in the recent 12 months because of the amount of cricket played with the likes of Shikhar Dhawan, KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant. All these players donning the captain's hat for a bit. Jasprit Bumrah as well. But for the moment, it will be a toss up between Rohit and Hardik Pandya or rather Rohit and Hardik Pandya will be the captain and vice-captain leading into the World Cup for sure," concluded the keeper-batter. Hardik is being touted as the next T20I captain as the BCCI selectors want a new squad to take charge in the shortest format with the next edition of the T20 World Cup in 2024, in West Indies and USA. 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.

Rohit, Hardik will be captain and vice-captain leading into ODI WC, says Team India veteran Dinesh Karthik

Manchester United made a positive start to life without Cristiano Ronaldo as Marcus Rashford and Anthony Martial stepped out from the Portuguese's shadow to score in a 3-0 win over Nottingham Forest on Tuesday. Ronaldo's rollercoaster second spell at Old Trafford came to an end during the World Cup break after an explosive interview in which he took aim at manager Erik ten Hag and the club's owners.

On the field, his influence had already waned since Ten Hag took charge at the start of the season. Rashford has been a player transformed under the Dutch coach and carried his fine form for England at the World Cup into the Premier League's return. A brilliantly worked corner opened the floodgates for United as Christian Eriksen picked out an unmarked Rashford inside the area to sweep into the top corner. Forest were without their first choice goalkeeper Dean Henderson as he is on loan from United and his understudy Wayne Hennessey was culpable when the home side doubled their lead just three minutes later. Rashford's burst down the left and teed up Martial at the edge of the box, but the Frenchman's strike should not have had enough power to beat the Welsh international goalkeeper.

United were also short handed at the back with Lisandro Martinez absent following Argentina's World Cup celebrations, Diogo Dalot injured and Harry Maguire still feeling the aftereffects of an illness. As a result Raphael Varane was forced into starting just nine days after playing 113 minutes for France in the World Cup final, while Luke Shaw lined up as a centre-back in a back four for the first time. But Forest did little to test a makeshift backline as they remain with just one goal away from home in the league all season.

Steve Cooper's men did have the ball in the net shortly before half-time, but Willy Boly's effort was ruled out for offside after a lengthy VAR check. 
Ten Hag has publicly stated his desire to add a striker in the January window given Ronaldo's departure and United should have added more than one goal in the second half. Antony fired straight at Hennessey after fine play from Rashford and Bruno Fernandes gave the Brazilian a clear sight of goal.

Hennessey also stood firm to block from Martial and Rashford from close range, but the Red Devils finally got the third goal they deserved three minutes from time. The imperious Casemiro strode forward to win possession and picked out his Brazilian compatriot Fred to slot into the far corner. Victory takes United to within one point of the top four and with a game in hand to come on fourth-placed Tottenham. Forest remain rooted in the relegation zone, but just one point adrift of safety.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/karim-benzema-was-fit-but-sent-home-prematurely-benzemas-agent-lashes-out-at-france-boss-deschamps-547290">Karim Benzema was fit but sent home prematurely: Agent lashes out at France boss Deschamps</a>

Chelsea manager Graham Potter praised the Blues' reaction to a poor run prior to the World Cup as they eased past Bournemouth 2-0 on Tuesday to end a five-game winless streak in the Premier League. Kai Havertz and Mason Mount struck inside the first 24 minutes to get Chelsea back in the hunt for a place in next season's Champions League. Victory took Chelsea up to eighth and within six points of the top four.

"You have to use breaks as best you can," Potter told Amazon Prime. "Evaluate and reassess and get injured players back. We used it as best we could even with players coming back at different times." However, victory came at a cost as defender Reece James limped off on his return from the knee injury which kept him out of England’s World Cup campaign.

James cruised through the first half but called for a substitution early in the second and looked disconsolate as he pointed to his knee before going to ground."You can see his quality. It's a blow for us," added Potter. "I'm not sure on the state of the injury. It's too early to say." Potter, aiming to avoid overseeing a fourth consecutive Chelsea league defeat for the first time since 1998, handed Denis Zakaria his Premier League debut.

The Swiss midfielder broke forward well to drive Chelsea up the pitch in the first half, while the effervescent attacking duo of Raheem Sterling and Christian Pulisic led the Bournemouth defence on a merry dance. Sterling provided the opener with an incisive low cross to the back post where Havertz slid in to convert in the 16th minute. Mount doubled the lead with a well-taken drive from the edge of the box as Chelsea stepped up another gear before Pulisic had another goal disallowed for a foul by Havertz in the build-up.

After three games in all competitions without scoring a goal, the Blues were determined to end their disappointing streak and get their season back on track. Bournemouth goalkeeper Mark Travers did well to deny James after a dynamic burst forward, then made an even better save to foil Sterling before the break to keep his team in the game. Havertz fired wide and Mount forced Travers into a smart low stop as Chelsea tried to put the game out of sight.

In the end they didn't need to as Bournemouth failed to threaten other than Jaidon Anthony's late free-kick that was beaten away by Kepa Arrizabalaga. "We won't be measured on games at Chelsea," said Bournemouth boss Gary O'Neil. "You need everything to go for you. The response to being 2-0 down, they showed incredible belief we could get something from the game." A fifth defeat in six league games leaves Bournemouth just three points above the relegation zone

Manchester United made a positive start to life without Cristiano Ronaldo as Marcus Rashford and Anthony Martial stepped out from the Portuguese's shadow to score in a 3-0 win over Nottingham Forest on Tuesday.

Manchester United made a positive start to life without Cristiano Ronaldo as Marcus Rashford and Anthony Martial stepped out from the Portuguese's shadow to score in a 3-0 win over Nottingham Forest on Tuesday. Ronaldo's rollercoaster second spell at Old Trafford came to an end during the World Cup break after an explosive interview in which he took aim at manager Erik ten Hag and the club's owners. On the field, his influence had already waned since Ten Hag took charge at the start of the season. Rashford has been a player transformed under the Dutch coach and carried his fine form for England at the World Cup into the Premier League's return. A brilliantly worked corner opened the floodgates for United as Christian Eriksen picked out an unmarked Rashford inside the area to sweep into the top corner. Forest were without their first choice goalkeeper Dean Henderson as he is on loan from United and his understudy Wayne Hennessey was culpable when the home side doubled their lead just three minutes later. Rashford's burst down the left and teed up Martial at the edge of the box, but the Frenchman's strike should not have had enough power to beat the Welsh international goalkeeper. United were also short handed at the back with Lisandro Martinez absent following Argentina's World Cup celebrations, Diogo Dalot injured and Harry Maguire still feeling the aftereffects of an illness. As a result Raphael Varane was forced into starting just nine days after playing 113 minutes for France in the World Cup final, while Luke Shaw lined up as a centre-back in a back four for the first time. But Forest did little to test a makeshift backline as they remain with just one goal away from home in the league all season. Steve Cooper's men did have the ball in the net shortly before half-time, but Willy Boly's effort was ruled out for offside after a lengthy VAR check. Ten Hag has publicly stated his desire to add a striker in the January window given Ronaldo's departure and United should have added more than one goal in the second half. Antony fired straight at Hennessey after fine play from Rashford and Bruno Fernandes gave the Brazilian a clear sight of goal. Hennessey also stood firm to block from Martial and Rashford from close range, but the Red Devils finally got the third goal they deserved three minutes from time. The imperious Casemiro strode forward to win possession and picked out his Brazilian compatriot Fred to slot into the far corner. Victory takes United to within one point of the top four and with a game in hand to come on fourth-placed Tottenham. Forest remain rooted in the relegation zone, but just one point adrift of safety. Also read: Karim Benzema was fit but sent home prematurely: Agent lashes out at France boss Deschamps Chelsea manager Graham Potter praised the Blues' reaction to a poor run prior to the World Cup as they eased past Bournemouth 2-0 on Tuesday to end a five-game winless streak in the Premier League. Kai Havertz and Mason Mount struck inside the first 24 minutes to get Chelsea back in the hunt for a place in next season's Champions League. Victory took Chelsea up to eighth and within six points of the top four. "You have to use breaks as best you can," Potter told Amazon Prime. "Evaluate and reassess and get injured players back. We used it as best we could even with players coming back at different times." However, victory came at a cost as defender Reece James limped off on his return from the knee injury which kept him out of England’s World Cup campaign. James cruised through the first half but called for a substitution early in the second and looked disconsolate as he pointed to his knee before going to ground."You can see his quality. It's a blow for us," added Potter. "I'm not sure on the state of the injury. It's too early to say." Potter, aiming to avoid overseeing a fourth consecutive Chelsea league defeat for the first time since 1998, handed Denis Zakaria his Premier League debut. The Swiss midfielder broke forward well to drive Chelsea up the pitch in the first half, while the effervescent attacking duo of Raheem Sterling and Christian Pulisic led the Bournemouth defence on a merry dance. Sterling provided the opener with an incisive low cross to the back post where Havertz slid in to convert in the 16th minute. Mount doubled the lead with a well-taken drive from the edge of the box as Chelsea stepped up another gear before Pulisic had another goal disallowed for a foul by Havertz in the build-up. After three games in all competitions without scoring a goal, the Blues were determined to end their disappointing streak and get their season back on track. Bournemouth goalkeeper Mark Travers did well to deny James after a dynamic burst forward, then made an even better save to foil Sterling before the break to keep his team in the game. Havertz fired wide and Mount forced Travers into a smart low stop as Chelsea tried to put the game out of sight. In the end they didn't need to as Bournemouth failed to threaten other than Jaidon Anthony's late free-kick that was beaten away by Kepa Arrizabalaga. "We won't be measured on games at Chelsea," said Bournemouth boss Gary O'Neil. "You need everything to go for you. The response to being 2-0 down, they showed incredible belief we could get something from the game." A fifth defeat in six league games leaves Bournemouth just three points above the relegation zone

Premier League: Man United off to bright start sans Cristiano Ronaldo, Chelsea beat Bournemouth 2-0

Rafael Nadal is gearing up for the 2023 season opener in the form of the Australian Open. The first Grand Slam of the upcoming calendar year will get underway on January 16 with all eyes on Novak Djokovic as the Serbian will make his comeback in Melbourne after missing out on the 2022 edition, due to his Covid-19 vaccination row. Nadal won the 2022 edition in style, beating Russia's Daniil Medvedev in a thrilling five-set finale at Melbourne Park, Melbourne. Thus, he will be desperate to win back-to-back titles at the Aus Open and stretch his overall grand slam count to 23.

Ahead of the showpiece event Down Under, the 36-year-old Nadal responded to a question if this will be his last tilt at the season-opening Grand Slam. Brushing aside all such suggestions, Nadal told reporters, "The highest motivation to try to start well. It’s always important to start well for me, for the confidence,” he said. “The last few months haven’t been easy for me. Main thing for me now is recover the positive feelings on court, being competitive. I hope to. I am ready to make that happen, but let’s see.”

“As a professional, you never know, hopefully not. I mean, when you are at the age of 36, you never know when it’s going to be the last one. It’s obvious, but I don’t like to talk about that because I am not in that mood now," the former world number one opined.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-open-2023-novak-djokovic-back-in-australia-highly-motivated-nadal-ready-for-serbian-challenge-547314">Australian Open 2023: Novak Djokovic back in Australia, 'highly motivated' Nadal ready for Serbian challenge</a>

Nadal further revealed, "I’m just focused on trying to play at the highest level possible and give myself possibilities to keep being competitive, to fight for anything. That’s my goal now. “I’m not thinking about it being my last time here. I am happy doing what I am doing. I’m looking forward to keep doing this."

Nadal will be challenged by Djokovic as the Serbian is set to return for the upcoming edition in Australia. Last year, the former world number one missed out on making an appearance and will be hungry to win his tenth title at Melbourne Park, Melbourne. He will surely be one of the biggest roadblocks for Nadal who will aim to win the championship for the second successive time.&nbsp;

Rafael Nadal is gearing up for the 2023 season opener in the form of the Australian Open. The first Grand Slam of the upcoming calendar year will get underway on January 16 with all eyes on Novak Djokovic as the Serbian will make his comeback in Melbourne after missing out on the 2022 edition, due to his Covid-19 vaccination row.

Rafael Nadal is gearing up for the 2023 season opener in the form of the Australian Open. The first Grand Slam of the upcoming calendar year will get underway on January 16 with all eyes on Novak Djokovic as the Serbian will make his comeback in Melbourne after missing out on the 2022 edition, due to his Covid-19 vaccination row. Nadal won the 2022 edition in style, beating Russia's Daniil Medvedev in a thrilling five-set finale at Melbourne Park, Melbourne. Thus, he will be desperate to win back-to-back titles at the Aus Open and stretch his overall grand slam count to 23. Ahead of the showpiece event Down Under, the 36-year-old Nadal responded to a question if this will be his last tilt at the season-opening Grand Slam. Brushing aside all such suggestions, Nadal told reporters, "The highest motivation to try to start well. It’s always important to start well for me, for the confidence,” he said. “The last few months haven’t been easy for me. Main thing for me now is recover the positive feelings on court, being competitive. I hope to. I am ready to make that happen, but let’s see.” “As a professional, you never know, hopefully not. I mean, when you are at the age of 36, you never know when it’s going to be the last one. It’s obvious, but I don’t like to talk about that because I am not in that mood now," the former world number one opined. Also read: Australian Open 2023: Novak Djokovic back in Australia, 'highly motivated' Nadal ready for Serbian challenge Nadal further revealed, "I’m just focused on trying to play at the highest level possible and give myself possibilities to keep being competitive, to fight for anything. That’s my goal now. “I’m not thinking about it being my last time here. I am happy doing what I am doing. I’m looking forward to keep doing this." Nadal will be challenged by Djokovic as the Serbian is set to return for the upcoming edition in Australia. Last year, the former world number one missed out on making an appearance and will be hungry to win his tenth title at Melbourne Park, Melbourne. He will surely be one of the biggest roadblocks for Nadal who will aim to win the championship for the second successive time.

Will 2023 Australian Open be Rafael Nadal's last at Melbourne Park? Spaniard reveals

On Tuesday (December 27), the BCCI selectors announced India's T20I and ODI squad for the Sri Lanka home series, which gets underway on January 3 in Mumbai. It will be India's first assignment in the upcoming year with the&nbsp;focus primarily on the 2023 ODI World Cup at home. The series will be followed by New Zealand's white-ball tour of India before Australia arrives for four Tests and three ODIs in the run-up to the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2023 edition in India.

Hardik Pandya is set to lead the T20I side with big guns such as Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, KL Rahul absent whereas Suryakumar Yadav has been appointed as the vice-captain. Regular captain Rohit will return for the ODIs, after a thumb injury he suffered in the Bangladesh tour, and will have Hardik as his new deputy despite Rahul's presence. Bhuvneshwar Kumar is missing from both squads whereas Shikhar Dhawan has been dropped from ODIs. Rishabh Pant is also not part of the series, reportedly due to fitness concerns. A young T20I squad will take on the Lankans first -- as a transition has started for India in the format -- before the three ODIs from January 10. Here's everything to know about the Sri Lanka tour of India 2023:

Full Schedule

T20I series

1st T20I - January 3 in Mumbai 
2nd T20I - January 5, Pune 
3rd T20I - January 7, Rajkot

ODI series

1st ODI - January 10, Guwahati 
2nd ODI - January 12, Kolkata 
3rd ODI - January 15, Thiruvananthapuram

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-sl-hardik-pandya-to-lead-in-t20is-promoted-as-odi-vice-captain-with-shikhar-dhawan-dropped-547166">IND vs SL: Hardik Pandya to lead in T20Is, promoted as ODI vice-captain with Shikhar Dhawan dropped</a>

Squads 
India’s T20I squad: Hardik Pandya (C), Suryakumar Yadav (VC), Ishan Kishan (WK), Ruturaj Gaikwad, Shubman Gill, Deepak Hooda, Rahul Tripathi, Sanju Samson (WK), Washington Sundar, Yuzvendra Chahal, Axar Patel, Arshdeep Singh, Harshal Patel, Umran Malik, Shivam Mavi, Mukesh Kumar. 
India’s ODI squad: Rohit Sharma (C), Hardik Pandya (VC), Virat Kohli, Shubman Gill, Suryakumar Yadav, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul (WK), Ishan Kishan (WK), Washington Sundar, Yuzvendra Chahal, Kuldeep Yadav, Axar Patel, Mohammed Shami, Mohammed Siraj, Umran Malik, Arshdeep Singh.

SL squads: To be announced

Telecast and Streaming details

It is to be noted that all three T20I matches will begin at 7:00 p.m. IST whereas the 50-over series will see the matches start at 1:30 p.m. IST. The live broadcast will be on Star Sports Network on TV whereas live streaming will be on the Disney+ Hotstar app and website.

On Tuesday (December 27), the BCCI selectors announced India's T20I and ODI squad for the Sri Lanka home series, which gets underway on January 3 in Mumbai. It will be India's first assignment in the upcoming year with the focus primarily on the 2023 ODI World Cup at home.

On Tuesday (December 27), the BCCI selectors announced India's T20I and ODI squad for the Sri Lanka home series, which gets underway on January 3 in Mumbai. It will be India's first assignment in the upcoming year with the focus primarily on the 2023 ODI World Cup at home. The series will be followed by New Zealand's white-ball tour of India before Australia arrives for four Tests and three ODIs in the run-up to the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2023 edition in India. Hardik Pandya is set to lead the T20I side with big guns such as Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, KL Rahul absent whereas Suryakumar Yadav has been appointed as the vice-captain. Regular captain Rohit will return for the ODIs, after a thumb injury he suffered in the Bangladesh tour, and will have Hardik as his new deputy despite Rahul's presence. Bhuvneshwar Kumar is missing from both squads whereas Shikhar Dhawan has been dropped from ODIs. Rishabh Pant is also not part of the series, reportedly due to fitness concerns. A young T20I squad will take on the Lankans first -- as a transition has started for India in the format -- before the three ODIs from January 10. Here's everything to know about the Sri Lanka tour of India 2023: Full Schedule T20I series 1st T20I - January 3 in Mumbai 2nd T20I - January 5, Pune 3rd T20I - January 7, Rajkot ODI series 1st ODI - January 10, Guwahati 2nd ODI - January 12, Kolkata 3rd ODI - January 15, Thiruvananthapuram Also read: IND vs SL: Hardik Pandya to lead in T20Is, promoted as ODI vice-captain with Shikhar Dhawan dropped Squads India’s T20I squad: Hardik Pandya (C), Suryakumar Yadav (VC), Ishan Kishan (WK), Ruturaj Gaikwad, Shubman Gill, Deepak Hooda, Rahul Tripathi, Sanju Samson (WK), Washington Sundar, Yuzvendra Chahal, Axar Patel, Arshdeep Singh, Harshal Patel, Umran Malik, Shivam Mavi, Mukesh Kumar. India’s ODI squad: Rohit Sharma (C), Hardik Pandya (VC), Virat Kohli, Shubman Gill, Suryakumar Yadav, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul (WK), Ishan Kishan (WK), Washington Sundar, Yuzvendra Chahal, Kuldeep Yadav, Axar Patel, Mohammed Shami, Mohammed Siraj, Umran Malik, Arshdeep Singh. SL squads: To be announced Telecast and Streaming details It is to be noted that all three T20I matches will begin at 7:00 p.m. IST whereas the 50-over series will see the matches start at 1:30 p.m. IST. The live broadcast will be on Star Sports Network on TV whereas live streaming will be on the Disney+ Hotstar app and website.

Sri Lanka tour of India 2023: From schedule to live telecast - Everything you need to know

Ace Indian shuttler HS Prannoy moved one spot up to reclaim a career-best eighth position in the latest men`s singles BWF World Rankings released on Tuesday, after almost four years. Prannoy had briefly been world No. 8 in the rankings released on January 15, 2018. He recently entered the top 10 after attaining ninth position in last week`s rankings. The 30-year-old has been in good form in 2022. He played a stellar role in India`s maiden Thomas Cup win earlier this year, registering crucial victories in the deciding ties against Malaysia in the quarter-final and Denmark in the semis. 
 
Apart from being a part of the Indian badminton contingent which clinched the Commonwealth Games 2022 mixed team gold medal at Birmingham, Prannoy has also been in fine form in individual events. The Indian made seven quarter-finals, two semi-finals and the Swiss Open final in 2022. Prannoy`s run included some big upset wins, including two against reigning Olympic champion and world No. 1 Viktor Axelsen. However, he remained the second-best-ranked Indian men`s player in the singles rankings as Lakshya Sen held on to his world No. 7 spot. Kidambi Srikanth, a former world No. 1, is 12th in the latest rankings. 
 
In women`s singles, two-time Olympic medallist PV Sindhu, who has been sidelined with an injury since winning the CWG gold medal at Birmingham, lost a place to drop down to world No. 7. On the other hand, the out-of-form Saina Nehwal rose two places to the 31st spot and is currently sandwiched between junior compatriots Malvika Bansod (world No. 30) and Aakarshi Kashyap (world No. 32). Meanwhile, India`s top men`s doubles pair of Chirag Shetty and Satwiksairaj Rankireddy stayed fifth, a career-best mark, in the standings while MR Arjun and Dhruv Kapila moved up three places to 21st. 
 
In women`s doubles, Commonwealth Games bronze medallists Gayatri Gopichand and Treesa Jolly gained a place to rise to world No. 17. Their senior colleagues Ashwini Ponnappa and N Sikki Reddy are ranked 28th after slipping four places. In mixed doubles, Ishaan Bhatnagar and Tanisha Crasto are India`s best-ranked team at world No. 18.

Ace Indian shuttler HS Prannoy moved one spot up to reclaim a career-best eighth position in the latest men`s singles BWF World Rankings released on Tuesday, after almost four years.

Ace Indian shuttler HS Prannoy moved one spot up to reclaim a career-best eighth position in the latest men`s singles BWF World Rankings released on Tuesday, after almost four years. Prannoy had briefly been world No. 8 in the rankings released on January 15, 2018. He recently entered the top 10 after attaining ninth position in last week`s rankings. The 30-year-old has been in good form in 2022. He played a stellar role in India`s maiden Thomas Cup win earlier this year, registering crucial victories in the deciding ties against Malaysia in the quarter-final and Denmark in the semis. Apart from being a part of the Indian badminton contingent which clinched the Commonwealth Games 2022 mixed team gold medal at Birmingham, Prannoy has also been in fine form in individual events. The Indian made seven quarter-finals, two semi-finals and the Swiss Open final in 2022. Prannoy`s run included some big upset wins, including two against reigning Olympic champion and world No. 1 Viktor Axelsen. However, he remained the second-best-ranked Indian men`s player in the singles rankings as Lakshya Sen held on to his world No. 7 spot. Kidambi Srikanth, a former world No. 1, is 12th in the latest rankings. In women`s singles, two-time Olympic medallist PV Sindhu, who has been sidelined with an injury since winning the CWG gold medal at Birmingham, lost a place to drop down to world No. 7. On the other hand, the out-of-form Saina Nehwal rose two places to the 31st spot and is currently sandwiched between junior compatriots Malvika Bansod (world No. 30) and Aakarshi Kashyap (world No. 32). Meanwhile, India`s top men`s doubles pair of Chirag Shetty and Satwiksairaj Rankireddy stayed fifth, a career-best mark, in the standings while MR Arjun and Dhruv Kapila moved up three places to 21st. In women`s doubles, Commonwealth Games bronze medallists Gayatri Gopichand and Treesa Jolly gained a place to rise to world No. 17. Their senior colleagues Ashwini Ponnappa and N Sikki Reddy are ranked 28th after slipping four places. In mixed doubles, Ishaan Bhatnagar and Tanisha Crasto are India`s best-ranked team at world No. 18.

BWF Rankings: HS Prannoy reclaims career-best eighth spot for first time since 2018

Usman Khawaja is a veteran of 103 internationals (54 Tests, 40 ODIs and nine T20Is) for Team Australia. The left-hander has been part of Australia's 2019 ODI World Cup campaign and is also involved in their ongoing home series versus South Africa. Ahead of Australia's second and penultimate Test versus the Proteas, which is currently underway at the iconic MCG, Melbourne, Khawaja made a glaring claim. The left-hander, who is of Asian descent being born in Pakistan, shifted to Australia at a young age with his family members and has played all his cricket for the Aussies. However, he revealed that he has often been stopped and questioned by security three times at a hotel despite being in the national jersey.&nbsp;

Khawaja took to his official Twitter handle and recalled the times being stopped by hotel security staff after a journalist shared his experience on the social media platform. The 36-year-old veteran wrote, "You get use to it. I got stopped 3 times last year at our hotel, while in Australian Kit and asked if I was with the Australian Cricket team... #youdontlookaustralian #orsotheysay"

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You get use to it. I got stopped 3 times last year at our hotel, while in Australian Kit and asked if I was with the Australian Cricket team... 🤦🏾‍♂️<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/youdontlookaustralian?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#youdontlookaustralian</a>😂 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/orsotheysay?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#orsotheysay</a> <a href="https://t.co/XSpsX0KXdL">https://t.co/XSpsX0KXdL</a>
— Usman Khawaja (@Uz_Khawaja) <a href="https://twitter.com/Uz_Khawaja/status/1606810466550181890?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 25, 2022</a></blockquote>
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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>

Khawaja has amassed&nbsp;3,966 runs in 54 Tests at an average of 46.11 along with 12 centuries. In 40 ODIs, the left-hander has 1,554 runs at 42 whereas he has only played a handful of T20Is (nine), scoring 241 runs. While he remains a regular in Tests, he hasn't featured in Australia's white-ball setup since 2019. In the ongoing SA Tests, he has had scores of 11, 2 and 1 and will like to make amends in the remaining outings in the series. After this, Australia will tour India for four Tests and gear up to play the WTC final -- with Pat Cummins &amp; Co. almost through to the final -- before the action shifts to Ashes 2023 in England.

Usman Khawaja is a veteran of 103 internationals (54 Tests, 40 ODIs and nine T20Is) for Team Australia. The left-hander has been part of Australia's 2019 ODI World Cup campaign and is also involved in their ongoing home series versus South Africa.

Usman Khawaja is a veteran of 103 internationals (54 Tests, 40 ODIs and nine T20Is) for Team Australia. The left-hander has been part of Australia's 2019 ODI World Cup campaign and is also involved in their ongoing home series versus South Africa. Ahead of Australia's second and penultimate Test versus the Proteas, which is currently underway at the iconic MCG, Melbourne, Khawaja made a glaring claim. The left-hander, who is of Asian descent being born in Pakistan, shifted to Australia at a young age with his family members and has played all his cricket for the Aussies. However, he revealed that he has often been stopped and questioned by security three times at a hotel despite being in the national jersey. Khawaja took to his official Twitter handle and recalled the times being stopped by hotel security staff after a journalist shared his experience on the social media platform. The 36-year-old veteran wrote, "You get use to it. I got stopped 3 times last year at our hotel, while in Australian Kit and asked if I was with the Australian Cricket team... #youdontlookaustralian #orsotheysay" You get use to it. I got stopped 3 times last year at our hotel, while in Australian Kit and asked if I was with the Australian Cricket team... 🤦🏾‍♂️#youdontlookaustralian😂 #orsotheysay https://t.co/XSpsX0KXdL — Usman Khawaja (@Uz_Khawaja) December 25, 2022 × Also read: David Warner injured while celebrating wildly after slamming 200 vs SA in MCG Test, gets retired hurt - WATCH Khawaja has amassed 3,966 runs in 54 Tests at an average of 46.11 along with 12 centuries. In 40 ODIs, the left-hander has 1,554 runs at 42 whereas he has only played a handful of T20Is (nine), scoring 241 runs. While he remains a regular in Tests, he hasn't featured in Australia's white-ball setup since 2019. In the ongoing SA Tests, he has had scores of 11, 2 and 1 and will like to make amends in the remaining outings in the series. After this, Australia will tour India for four Tests and gear up to play the WTC final -- with Pat Cummins & Co. almost through to the final -- before the action shifts to Ashes 2023 in England.

'I got...': Usman Khawaja recalls being stopped by hotel security despite being in Australian jersey

Australia dominated the proceedings on Day 2 of the Boxing Day Test match versus South Africa on Tuesday (Decemebr 27) at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), Melbourne. Riding on David Warner's double ton -- who is playing his 100th Test -- the home side are in a commanding position at stumps; well-placed at 386 for 3 with an overall lead of 197 runs.&nbsp;

Coming into this Test match on the back of severe criticism due to his poor form in whites, Warner silenced his critics in style. He reached his double ton in 254 balls and his inning was laced with 16 fours and two maximums. Warner celebrated wildly and carried out his trademark jump after slamming his third double ton in the format. However, his celebrations were short-lived as the swashbuckling opener got injured and eventually had to retire hurt. He was struggling with cramps and aggrevated his pain while celebrating, leading to his exit. Here's the video of his celebrations:&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-spider-cam-accidentally-hits-sa-pacer-anrich-nortje-on-day-2-of-boxing-day-test-at-the-mcg-546969">WATCH! Spider cam accidentally hits SA pacer Anrich Nortje on Day 2 of Boxing Day Test at the MCG</a>

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A double century for David Warner! 
 
But his <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/OhWhatAFeeling?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#OhWhatAFeeling</a> jump comes at a cost! 😬<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvSA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvSA</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/Toyota_Aus?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Toyota_Aus</a> <a href="https://t.co/RqJLcQpWHa">pic.twitter.com/RqJLcQpWHa</a>
— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketcomau/status/1607613287637864448?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 27, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Talking about Warner's knock, he stitched an impressive 239-run third-wicket stand with Steve Smith (85) to take Australia way ahead of the Proteas in the contest. He became the first Australian to slam a double in his 100th Test before walking out with update being that he was&nbsp;dehydrated. He also became only the second player overall, after England's Joe Root, to score a double hundred in his 100th match in the purest format.&nbsp;

On Day 3, Australia will like to continue their dominance over the Dean Elgar-led SA line-up and propel the lead past the 300-run mark to dictate terms in the remaining part of the second and penultimate Test. Pat Cummins &amp; Co. already have a 1-0 lead in the series after winning the first Test by six wickets at The Gabba, Brisbane.

Australia dominated the proceedings on Day 2 of the Boxing Day Test match versus South Africa on Tuesday (Decemebr 27) at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), Melbourne.

Australia dominated the proceedings on Day 2 of the Boxing Day Test match versus South Africa on Tuesday (Decemebr 27) at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), Melbourne. Riding on David Warner's double ton -- who is playing his 100th Test -- the home side are in a commanding position at stumps; well-placed at 386 for 3 with an overall lead of 197 runs. Coming into this Test match on the back of severe criticism due to his poor form in whites, Warner silenced his critics in style. He reached his double ton in 254 balls and his inning was laced with 16 fours and two maximums. Warner celebrated wildly and carried out his trademark jump after slamming his third double ton in the format. However, his celebrations were short-lived as the swashbuckling opener got injured and eventually had to retire hurt. He was struggling with cramps and aggrevated his pain while celebrating, leading to his exit. Here's the video of his celebrations: Also read: WATCH! Spider cam accidentally hits SA pacer Anrich Nortje on Day 2 of Boxing Day Test at the MCG A double century for David Warner! But his #OhWhatAFeeling jump comes at a cost! 😬#AUSvSA | @Toyota_Aus pic.twitter.com/RqJLcQpWHa — cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) December 27, 2022 × Talking about Warner's knock, he stitched an impressive 239-run third-wicket stand with Steve Smith (85) to take Australia way ahead of the Proteas in the contest. He became the first Australian to slam a double in his 100th Test before walking out with update being that he was dehydrated. He also became only the second player overall, after England's Joe Root, to score a double hundred in his 100th match in the purest format. On Day 3, Australia will like to continue their dominance over the Dean Elgar-led SA line-up and propel the lead past the 300-run mark to dictate terms in the remaining part of the second and penultimate Test. Pat Cummins & Co. already have a 1-0 lead in the series after winning the first Test by six wickets at The Gabba, Brisbane.

David Warner injured while celebrating wildly after slamming 200 vs SA in MCG Test, gets retired hurt - WATCH

The comparison between Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo is never-ending. The debate regarding the greatest of all time between the duo saw a twist after the conclusion of the Qatar World Cup 2022 edition. With Argentina winning their first-ever WC title after 1986, Messi also got his hands on the coveted title in what was his swansong from the marquee tournament. Winning the World Cup, Messi has gone ahead of Ronaldo in the G.O.A.T debate and Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp also lavished huge praise on him, calling him as the 'greatest footbaler in my lifetime'.

"Argentina deserved it and when you saw the team and the country celebrating, then it probably hit the right country in difficult times. I am really happy for them, they waited for a long time,” Klopp explained.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-you-let-your-country-down-brentford-fans-mock-harry-kane-during-premier-league-clash-547055">WATCH | 'You let your country down', Brentford fans mock Harry Kane during Premier League clash</a>

"The greatest footballer in my lifetime, Lionel Messi, the way he plays football in this age should give us all a hint at how long footballers can perform at the top level. We shouldn’t close the books too early. It was a joy to watch him," Klopp was quoted as saying by The ECHO. Messi had a memorable run in the Qatar WC, scoring seven goals along with three assists to also end with the Golden Ball Award. He became the first-ever player to win the award twice, having already won it in 2014.

Messi-led Argentina started the World Cup with a shocking loss versus Saudi Arabia. After that, they regrouped in style and went onto win six games in a row to lift the title, beating defending champions France -- at the Lusail Stadium, Qatar -- on December 18 on penalty shootout (4-2) after the two sides were tied at 3-3 following the extra time. After this memorable victory, Messi has earned the Copa America as well as the World Cup title in over 12 months to stamp his authority as one of the greatest of all-time.

The comparison between Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo is never-ending. The debate regarding the greatest of all time between the duo saw a twist after the conclusion of the Qatar World Cup 2022 edition.

The comparison between Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo is never-ending. The debate regarding the greatest of all time between the duo saw a twist after the conclusion of the Qatar World Cup 2022 edition. With Argentina winning their first-ever WC title after 1986, Messi also got his hands on the coveted title in what was his swansong from the marquee tournament. Winning the World Cup, Messi has gone ahead of Ronaldo in the G.O.A.T debate and Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp also lavished huge praise on him, calling him as the 'greatest footbaler in my lifetime'. "Argentina deserved it and when you saw the team and the country celebrating, then it probably hit the right country in difficult times. I am really happy for them, they waited for a long time,” Klopp explained. Also read: WATCH | 'You let your country down', Brentford fans mock Harry Kane during Premier League clash "The greatest footballer in my lifetime, Lionel Messi, the way he plays football in this age should give us all a hint at how long footballers can perform at the top level. We shouldn’t close the books too early. It was a joy to watch him," Klopp was quoted as saying by The ECHO. Messi had a memorable run in the Qatar WC, scoring seven goals along with three assists to also end with the Golden Ball Award. He became the first-ever player to win the award twice, having already won it in 2014. Messi-led Argentina started the World Cup with a shocking loss versus Saudi Arabia. After that, they regrouped in style and went onto win six games in a row to lift the title, beating defending champions France -- at the Lusail Stadium, Qatar -- on December 18 on penalty shootout (4-2) after the two sides were tied at 3-3 following the extra time. After this memorable victory, Messi has earned the Copa America as well as the World Cup title in over 12 months to stamp his authority as one of the greatest of all-time.

'Greatest footballer in my lifetime': Ronaldo or Messi? Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp shares his pick

Ramiz Raja was sacked as the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chief soon after Pakistan were whitewashed in their home Tests versus England. Ramiz, who took over in September 2021, had a mixed run as the PCB chairman and has now been succeeded by Najam Sethi, who has earlier held the post. After his sudden ouster from the top post, the former Pakistan captain hasn't taken his unceremonious exit very well and lashed out at his successor.&nbsp;

After the end of his stint as the PCB chief, Ramiz is back on his Youtube channel and recently conducted a Q/A session with his subscribers, where he severely criticised Najam. "To accommodate one person, Sethi to be precise, they had to change the entire constitution (of the PCB). I have not seen this anywhere in the world. It has been done in the middle of a season, when teams are visiting Pakistan. They have changed the chief selector, who had played Test cricket. At 2 am in the night, he (Sethi) tweets that Ramiz Raja is gone. This is my playing field. It hurts," he said on his channel.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-have-got-ramiz-raja-opens-up-on-continuous-rant-against-india-during-his-tenure-as-pcb-chief-547019">"I have got...' - Ramiz Raja opens up on continuous rant against India during his tenure as PCB chief</a>

Rami highlighted that Mickey Arthur may return as the Pakistan head coach and claimed, "It has been made out as if a messiah (Sethi) has come, who will take the game to new heights. We know what he is up to. He wants limelight at any cost. He has nothing to do with cricket, and has never lifted a bat. They have changed me midway. In the middle of the season they are bringing Micky Arthur. Saqlain Mushtaq's tenure was ending anyway in January. Saqlain has played over 50 (49) Tests, he is a legend. This is no way to treat the cricketers."

There has been a lot of unrest in Pakistan cricket of late. Given the team has not been able to perform as per expectations in big events and at home, Ramiz has been shown the door and the onus is now on Sethi. It will be interesting to see if he responds to Ramiz's allegations or not in the coming future.

Ramiz Raja was sacked as the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chief soon after Pakistan were whitewashed in their home Tests versus England. Ramiz, who took over in September 2021, had a mixed run as the PCB chairman and has now been succeeded by Najam Sethi, who has earlier held the post.

Ramiz Raja was sacked as the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chief soon after Pakistan were whitewashed in their home Tests versus England. Ramiz, who took over in September 2021, had a mixed run as the PCB chairman and has now been succeeded by Najam Sethi, who has earlier held the post. After his sudden ouster from the top post, the former Pakistan captain hasn't taken his unceremonious exit very well and lashed out at his successor. After the end of his stint as the PCB chief, Ramiz is back on his Youtube channel and recently conducted a Q/A session with his subscribers, where he severely criticised Najam. "To accommodate one person, Sethi to be precise, they had to change the entire constitution (of the PCB). I have not seen this anywhere in the world. It has been done in the middle of a season, when teams are visiting Pakistan. They have changed the chief selector, who had played Test cricket. At 2 am in the night, he (Sethi) tweets that Ramiz Raja is gone. This is my playing field. It hurts," he said on his channel. Also read: "I have got...' - Ramiz Raja opens up on continuous rant against India during his tenure as PCB chief Rami highlighted that Mickey Arthur may return as the Pakistan head coach and claimed, "It has been made out as if a messiah (Sethi) has come, who will take the game to new heights. We know what he is up to. He wants limelight at any cost. He has nothing to do with cricket, and has never lifted a bat. They have changed me midway. In the middle of the season they are bringing Micky Arthur. Saqlain Mushtaq's tenure was ending anyway in January. Saqlain has played over 50 (49) Tests, he is a legend. This is no way to treat the cricketers." There has been a lot of unrest in Pakistan cricket of late. Given the team has not been able to perform as per expectations in big events and at home, Ramiz has been shown the door and the onus is now on Sethi. It will be interesting to see if he responds to Ramiz's allegations or not in the coming future.

'He wants limelight, has nothing to do...': Ramiz Raja on Najam Sethi after being sacked as PCB chairman

Andoo&nbsp;Comanche&nbsp;took a penalty turn inside the opening 20 minutes of the&nbsp;Sydney&nbsp;Hobart&nbsp;yacht&nbsp;race&nbsp;on Monday but still managed to get ahead of the pack, with fellow contenders LawConnect, Black Jack and Hamilton Island Wild Oats close behind. Wild Oats also took a penalty turn in an action-packed start that allowed LawConnect to grab the early advantage, only for&nbsp;Comanche&nbsp;to surge ahead after taking the wide line. The annual 628 nautical-mile (1,170-km)&nbsp;race&nbsp;in the Tasman Sea from&nbsp;Sydney&nbsp;and across Bass Strait to&nbsp;Hobart&nbsp;is one of the world's most difficult&nbsp;yachting events.

A fleet of 109 had lined up for the&nbsp;race&nbsp;after heavy early morning fog on&nbsp;Sydney&nbsp;Harbour, with&nbsp;Comanche's 2017 line honours&nbsp;race&nbsp;record of one day, nine hours, 15 minutes and 24 seconds up for grabs in favourable winds. The&nbsp;yachts are set to cross the finish line on Wednesday. "It's going to be a really great&nbsp;race&nbsp;to watch," Wild Oats skipper Mark Richards said before the start. "I think the world's about to find out which is actually the fastest downwind boat in the world. "Is it&nbsp;Comanche? Is it Black Jack? Is it LawConnect? Or is it Hamilton Island Wild Oats? The weather's fantastic and we couldn't have asked for a better forecast."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/legendary-iranian-footballer-ali-daei-claims-family-not-allowed-to-leave-country-546929">Legendary Iranian footballer Ali Daei claims family not allowed to leave country</a>

Black Jack beat LawConnect and SHK Scallywag to claim line honours last year, after the 2020 edition was cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Andoo Comanche took a penalty turn inside the opening 20 minutes of the Sydney Hobart yacht race on Monday but still managed to get ahead of the pack, with fellow contenders LawConnect, Black Jack and Hamilton Island Wild Oats close behind.

Andoo Comanche took a penalty turn inside the opening 20 minutes of the Sydney Hobart yacht race on Monday but still managed to get ahead of the pack, with fellow contenders LawConnect, Black Jack and Hamilton Island Wild Oats close behind. Wild Oats also took a penalty turn in an action-packed start that allowed LawConnect to grab the early advantage, only for Comanche to surge ahead after taking the wide line. The annual 628 nautical-mile (1,170-km) race in the Tasman Sea from Sydney and across Bass Strait to Hobart is one of the world's most difficult yachting events. A fleet of 109 had lined up for the race after heavy early morning fog on Sydney Harbour, with Comanche's 2017 line honours race record of one day, nine hours, 15 minutes and 24 seconds up for grabs in favourable winds. The yachts are set to cross the finish line on Wednesday. "It's going to be a really great race to watch," Wild Oats skipper Mark Richards said before the start. "I think the world's about to find out which is actually the fastest downwind boat in the world. "Is it Comanche? Is it Black Jack? Is it LawConnect? Or is it Hamilton Island Wild Oats? The weather's fantastic and we couldn't have asked for a better forecast." Also read: Legendary Iranian footballer Ali Daei claims family not allowed to leave country Black Jack beat LawConnect and SHK Scallywag to claim line honours last year, after the 2020 edition was cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Andoo Comanche takes early lead in Sydney Hobart yacht race

Shortly after Pakistan was whitewashed in their three-match home Test series versus England, Ramiz Raja was sacked as the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chief. Ramiz's tenure was expected to come to an end soon after Imran Khan, Pakistan's World Cup-winning skipper, resigned as the country's Prime Minister in April, however, the ex-captain held onto the post for a longer period.&nbsp;

Nonetheless, all hell broke loose for Ramiz after England thrashed Pakistan at home. His tenure as the PCB chairman was marred with controversies and he was often slammed for further deteriorating the cricketing relations between India and Pakistan with his continuous rant against the arch-rivals. Ramiz's criticism of Indian cricket increased ever since the BCCI made it official that Team India won't travel to Pakistan for the Asia Cup 2023 and will shift the event to a neutral venue. To this, Ramiz had revealed that Pakistan also won't travel to India for the 2023 ODI World Cup if India boycott&nbsp;the Asia Cup in Pakistan.

The 60-year-old Ramiz has now opened up on why he was pained by India so much during his stint as the PCB chief.&nbsp;"I have got great regard for Indian cricket fans. I have enjoyed my stay in India over the years. Cricket breaks boundaries. I have received a lot of love from India as a commentator and as a cricketer. India thought Asia Cup cannot happen in Pakistan. India withdrew from Asia Cup without any discussion which was painful. I took a strong stance on this issue as a chairman of Pakistan Cricket Board," the former skipper said on his YouTube channel.

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Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-spider-cam-accidentally-hits-sa-pacer-anrich-nortje-on-day-2-of-boxing-day-test-at-the-mcg-546969">WATCH! Spider cam accidentally hits SA pacer Anrich Nortje on Day 2 of Boxing Day Test at the MCG</a>

Earlier, Ramiz had made a big claim after BCCI's take on next year's Asia Cup. "If Pakistan doesn't take part in the World Cup scheduled in India next year, who will watch it? We have a clear stand: If the Indian team comes here then we will go for the World Cup. If they don't come then they can play the World Cup without us," Raja told Urdu News in November.&nbsp;

Thus, it remains to be seen what the future will look like for two mega events set to be held next year; i.e. the 2023 Asia Cup and ODI WC. However, Ramiz's rant against India didn't help the cause and even led to his sacking. He has now been replaced by Najam Sethi.
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Shortly after Pakistan was whitewashed in their three-match home Test series versus England, Ramiz Raja was sacked as the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chief. Ramiz's tenure was expected to come to an end soon after Imran Khan, Pakistan's World Cup-winning skipper, resigned as the country's Prime Minister in April, however, the ex-captain held onto the post for a longer period.

Shortly after Pakistan was whitewashed in their three-match home Test series versus England, Ramiz Raja was sacked as the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chief. Ramiz's tenure was expected to come to an end soon after Imran Khan, Pakistan's World Cup-winning skipper, resigned as the country's Prime Minister in April, however, the ex-captain held onto the post for a longer period. Nonetheless, all hell broke loose for Ramiz after England thrashed Pakistan at home. His tenure as the PCB chairman was marred with controversies and he was often slammed for further deteriorating the cricketing relations between India and Pakistan with his continuous rant against the arch-rivals. Ramiz's criticism of Indian cricket increased ever since the BCCI made it official that Team India won't travel to Pakistan for the Asia Cup 2023 and will shift the event to a neutral venue. To this, Ramiz had revealed that Pakistan also won't travel to India for the 2023 ODI World Cup if India boycott the Asia Cup in Pakistan. The 60-year-old Ramiz has now opened up on why he was pained by India so much during his stint as the PCB chief. "I have got great regard for Indian cricket fans. I have enjoyed my stay in India over the years. Cricket breaks boundaries. I have received a lot of love from India as a commentator and as a cricketer. India thought Asia Cup cannot happen in Pakistan. India withdrew from Asia Cup without any discussion which was painful. I took a strong stance on this issue as a chairman of Pakistan Cricket Board," the former skipper said on his YouTube channel. Also read: WATCH! Spider cam accidentally hits SA pacer Anrich Nortje on Day 2 of Boxing Day Test at the MCG Earlier, Ramiz had made a big claim after BCCI's take on next year's Asia Cup. "If Pakistan doesn't take part in the World Cup scheduled in India next year, who will watch it? We have a clear stand: If the Indian team comes here then we will go for the World Cup. If they don't come then they can play the World Cup without us," Raja told Urdu News in November. Thus, it remains to be seen what the future will look like for two mega events set to be held next year; i.e. the 2023 Asia Cup and ODI WC. However, Ramiz's rant against India didn't help the cause and even led to his sacking. He has now been replaced by Najam Sethi.

"I have got...' - Ramiz Raja opens up on continuous rant against India during his tenure as PCB chief

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