Ace Indian shuttler Prannoy HS has entered the top 15 of the Badminton World Federation (BWF) World Rankings after a gap of almost four years. The last time the shuttler was the World Number 15 was on October 17, 2018. He made a climb of one spot to break into the top 15 once again. On the other hand, the men`s doubles pair of MR Arjun and Dhruv Kapila (jumping three spots to Number 23) and the mixed doubles duo of Ishaan Bhatnagar and Tanisha Bhatnagar (jumping two spots to Number 30), have achieved their best ranks. "@PRANNOYHSPRI back in top-15 Doubles pairs @arjunmr/@dhruvkapilaa and @ishaan0202/#TanishaCrasto better their highest rank Checkout the ranking updates @himantabiswa| @sanjay091968 #BWFWorldRankings #IndiaontheRise #Badminton," tweeted Badminton Association of India (BAI) Media.

Notably, World Championships quarter-finalists Dhruv Kapila and MR Arjun clinched the men`s doubles title at Maha Metro Maharashtra International Challenge badminton tournament in Nagpur earlier this month. Recently, Prannoy HS became the World`s Number one player in the men`s singles category in the BWF World Tour Rankings. In the rankings updated on September 6, Prannoy emerged as the number one shuttler in tour rankings.

The 2022 BWF World Tour started on January 11 and will end on December 18. It is the fifth season of the BWF Badminton World Tour. The tour consists of 22 tournaments which will lead to the final of the tour in December. These 22 tournaments are divided into five levels, Level 1 is the World Tour finals, followed by Level 2 called Super 1000, Level 3 called Super 750, Level 4 called Super 500, and Level 5 called Super 300. Different prize money and ranking points are offered at each of these tournaments. Prannoy started 2022 with a quarterfinal finish in the India Open in January. Then in the same month, he earned another quarterfinal in the Syed Modi International 2022.In March 2022, Prannoy earned a quarterfinal finish in the German Open 2022. In the same month at the 2022 All England Open, he could not progress beyond the first round. In the Swiss Open 2022 held the same month, he was the runner-up, losing to Leonardus Jonatan Christie of Indonesia in the final. During the Korea Open 2022 in early April, he was eliminated in the first round.

In the 2022 Thailand Open held in May, he could not perform well and lost in the first round itself. In June in the 2022 Indonesia Open, Prannoy earned a semifinal finish. In the same month, he lost in the quarterfinals at the 2022 Malaysia Open. In July in the Malaysia Masters 2022, the shuttler finished the tournament after losing in the semifinal. In the same month during Singapore Open, Prannoy earned a quarterfinal finish. In August during the 2022 Japan Open, he lost in the quarterfinals.

Ace Indian shuttler Prannoy HS has entered the top 15 of the Badminton World Federation (BWF) World Rankings after a gap of almost four years. The last time the shuttler was the World Number 15 was on October 17, 2018.

Ace Indian shuttler Prannoy HS has entered the top 15 of the Badminton World Federation (BWF) World Rankings after a gap of almost four years. The last time the shuttler was the World Number 15 was on October 17, 2018. He made a climb of one spot to break into the top 15 once again. On the other hand, the men`s doubles pair of MR Arjun and Dhruv Kapila (jumping three spots to Number 23) and the mixed doubles duo of Ishaan Bhatnagar and Tanisha Bhatnagar (jumping two spots to Number 30), have achieved their best ranks. "@PRANNOYHSPRI back in top-15 Doubles pairs @arjunmr/@dhruvkapilaa and @ishaan0202/#TanishaCrasto better their highest rank Checkout the ranking updates @himantabiswa| @sanjay091968 #BWFWorldRankings #IndiaontheRise #Badminton," tweeted Badminton Association of India (BAI) Media. Notably, World Championships quarter-finalists Dhruv Kapila and MR Arjun clinched the men`s doubles title at Maha Metro Maharashtra International Challenge badminton tournament in Nagpur earlier this month. Recently, Prannoy HS became the World`s Number one player in the men`s singles category in the BWF World Tour Rankings. In the rankings updated on September 6, Prannoy emerged as the number one shuttler in tour rankings. The 2022 BWF World Tour started on January 11 and will end on December 18. It is the fifth season of the BWF Badminton World Tour. The tour consists of 22 tournaments which will lead to the final of the tour in December. These 22 tournaments are divided into five levels, Level 1 is the World Tour finals, followed by Level 2 called Super 1000, Level 3 called Super 750, Level 4 called Super 500, and Level 5 called Super 300. Different prize money and ranking points are offered at each of these tournaments. Prannoy started 2022 with a quarterfinal finish in the India Open in January. Then in the same month, he earned another quarterfinal in the Syed Modi International 2022.In March 2022, Prannoy earned a quarterfinal finish in the German Open 2022. In the same month at the 2022 All England Open, he could not progress beyond the first round. In the Swiss Open 2022 held the same month, he was the runner-up, losing to Leonardus Jonatan Christie of Indonesia in the final. During the Korea Open 2022 in early April, he was eliminated in the first round. In the 2022 Thailand Open held in May, he could not perform well and lost in the first round itself. In June in the 2022 Indonesia Open, Prannoy earned a semifinal finish. In the same month, he lost in the quarterfinals at the 2022 Malaysia Open. In July in the Malaysia Masters 2022, the shuttler finished the tournament after losing in the semifinal. In the same month during Singapore Open, Prannoy earned a quarterfinal finish. In August during the 2022 Japan Open, he lost in the quarterfinals.

HS Prannoy enters top 15 of BWF rankings for first time in four years

Virat Kohli returned to international cricket with the commencement of the Asia Cup 2022 edition, in the UAE. After a break, post the England tour, the 33-year-old's return was keenly observed. The right-hander had a torrid time in England and ended without a single half-century across formats. Thus, his return to form was much awaited by the Team India fans.

Much to the delight of Indian cricket team and its ardent supporters, Kohli ended as the second-highest run-getter in the continental tournament where India failed to reach the final. Kohli ended with 276 runs in five outings, including two half-centuries and a hundred. In the recently-concluded India-Australia T20Is, at home, Kohli continued to contribute with the bat. In the series opener, he fell for 2 (7) and departed for a quickfire 11 in the rain-curtailed second and penultimate T20I before scoring a crucial 63 in the final encounter, in Hyderabad, on Sunday (September 25) to help India win the series 2-1.

'Virat&nbsp;Kohli is someone who is damn self-confident'

Seeing Kohli among runs, right before the T20 World Cup which gets underway in Australia from next month, former Indian batter Sanjay Manjrekar lauded the former Indian captain. He believes Kohli is someone who is damn self-confident. “See, right from the Asia Cup every match that he got runs, not just the runs, there was some improvement coming. I think the power game is back, he’s trusting his power game. There was a time when he was getting runs but his power game was not coming at his beck and call, that is starting to happen. He’s dispatching good balls for big boundaries and sixes," Manjrekar said while&nbsp;speaking on SPORTS18’s daily sports news show ‘SPORTS OVER THE TOP’

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/former-pakistan-spinner-lauds-indian-batter-expects-him-to-leave-virat-kohli-babar-azam-behind-520032">Former Pakistan spinner lauds Indian batter, expects him to leave Virat Kohli &amp; Babar Azam behind</a>

"It’s all about confidence, this is a guy who’s damn self-confident and drives himself to excellence but for long-time runs weren’t coming and his confidence was tender. But during the Asia Cup, slowly and steadily, certain things start to happen, the pull shots came in, and the sixes started going more into the stands than just going over the rope as it was going in the IPL. So, the pieces falling back to frame the perfect picture. Now it’s all about putting all these kinds of performances in the main event,” Manjrekar further explained.

Kohli-starrer India will next face South Africa, at home, in a three-match T20I series starting on September 28 (Wednesday).

Virat Kohli returned to international cricket with the commencement of the Asia Cup 2022 edition, in the UAE. After a break, post the England tour, the 33-year-old's return was keenly observed.

Virat Kohli returned to international cricket with the commencement of the Asia Cup 2022 edition, in the UAE. After a break, post the England tour, the 33-year-old's return was keenly observed. The right-hander had a torrid time in England and ended without a single half-century across formats. Thus, his return to form was much awaited by the Team India fans. Much to the delight of Indian cricket team and its ardent supporters, Kohli ended as the second-highest run-getter in the continental tournament where India failed to reach the final. Kohli ended with 276 runs in five outings, including two half-centuries and a hundred. In the recently-concluded India-Australia T20Is, at home, Kohli continued to contribute with the bat. In the series opener, he fell for 2 (7) and departed for a quickfire 11 in the rain-curtailed second and penultimate T20I before scoring a crucial 63 in the final encounter, in Hyderabad, on Sunday (September 25) to help India win the series 2-1. 'Virat Kohli is someone who is damn self-confident' Seeing Kohli among runs, right before the T20 World Cup which gets underway in Australia from next month, former Indian batter Sanjay Manjrekar lauded the former Indian captain. He believes Kohli is someone who is damn self-confident. “See, right from the Asia Cup every match that he got runs, not just the runs, there was some improvement coming. I think the power game is back, he’s trusting his power game. There was a time when he was getting runs but his power game was not coming at his beck and call, that is starting to happen. He’s dispatching good balls for big boundaries and sixes," Manjrekar said while speaking on SPORTS18’s daily sports news show ‘SPORTS OVER THE TOP’ ALSO READ | Former Pakistan spinner lauds Indian batter, expects him to leave Virat Kohli & Babar Azam behind "It’s all about confidence, this is a guy who’s damn self-confident and drives himself to excellence but for long-time runs weren’t coming and his confidence was tender. But during the Asia Cup, slowly and steadily, certain things start to happen, the pull shots came in, and the sixes started going more into the stands than just going over the rope as it was going in the IPL. So, the pieces falling back to frame the perfect picture. Now it’s all about putting all these kinds of performances in the main event,” Manjrekar further explained. Kohli-starrer India will next face South Africa, at home, in a three-match T20I series starting on September 28 (Wednesday).

'This is a guy who’s damn self-confident' - Sanjay Manjrekar reacts as Virat Kohli regains form

The zero gravity football match has made heads turn worldwide. In a first-of-its-kind football match held at an altitude of 20,230 ft (6166.1-metres), Portugal legend Luis Figo made his presence felt with a sensational goal. The 49-year-old produced a memorable bicycle kick shot that resulted in a goal.

Here's the video of Figo's goal:

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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/last-year-was-difficult-lionel-messi-opens-up-on-underwhelming-first-season-at-psg-after-barcelona-exit-520063">Last year was difficult: Lionel Messi opens up on underwhelming first season at PSG after Barcelona exit</a>

Figo teamed up with a diverse team comprising footballers from across the Middle East, Europe and Latin America in a record-breaking fixture. The match also attained the Guinness World Record for the 'Highest Altitude Game of Football on a Parabolic Flight'.

The match was held between Team Red and Team Yellow, being played across a 75 square-meter pitch set inside an aircraft.

Figo -- playing for Team Red -- turned the clock back with his bicycle kick while floating in the air. While Team Yellow levelled scores soon, it was Figo-starrer team who had the last laugh as they found the net once again to win 2-1.&nbsp;

Figo, who played 127 games for Portugal, spoke about the one-of-its-kind football match and said that it can help take the game to unimaginable heights. "Football transcends boundaries and unites people around the world. I have played in stadiums where the electric atmosphere sparks emotions that cuts across cultures and nationalities; this was the exact same experience I had playing this beautiful game at 20,000 feet above the ground with a group of fearless football fanatics taking their passion for the sport to unprecedented heights,” the veteran said after the end of proceedings of an exciting contest.

The zero gravity football match has made heads turn worldwide. In a first-of-its-kind football match held at an altitude of 20,230 ft (6166.1-metres), Portugal legend Luis Figo made his presence felt with a sensational goal.

The zero gravity football match has made heads turn worldwide. In a first-of-its-kind football match held at an altitude of 20,230 ft (6166.1-metres), Portugal legend Luis Figo made his presence felt with a sensational goal. The 49-year-old produced a memorable bicycle kick shot that resulted in a goal. Here's the video of Figo's goal: × ALSO READ | Last year was difficult: Lionel Messi opens up on underwhelming first season at PSG after Barcelona exit Figo teamed up with a diverse team comprising footballers from across the Middle East, Europe and Latin America in a record-breaking fixture. The match also attained the Guinness World Record for the 'Highest Altitude Game of Football on a Parabolic Flight'. The match was held between Team Red and Team Yellow, being played across a 75 square-meter pitch set inside an aircraft. Figo -- playing for Team Red -- turned the clock back with his bicycle kick while floating in the air. While Team Yellow levelled scores soon, it was Figo-starrer team who had the last laugh as they found the net once again to win 2-1. Figo, who played 127 games for Portugal, spoke about the one-of-its-kind football match and said that it can help take the game to unimaginable heights. "Football transcends boundaries and unites people around the world. I have played in stadiums where the electric atmosphere sparks emotions that cuts across cultures and nationalities; this was the exact same experience I had playing this beautiful game at 20,000 feet above the ground with a group of fearless football fanatics taking their passion for the sport to unprecedented heights,” the veteran said after the end of proceedings of an exciting contest.

WATCH: Luis Figo makes heads turn with sensational bicycle kick in 'zero gravity' football match

Last year saw Lionel Messi being forced to part ways with FC Barcelona. Many closely followed the Messi transfer news, which made heads turn in the football fraternity, before the Argentina captain joined Paris Saint Germain (PSG) as a free agent. Many had high hopes from him to hit the ground running in his first-ever season in France, in a club filled with some big names, but the 35-year-old had an underwhelming debut season in PSG.

Messi ended with only 11 goals for PSG across all competitions in the 2021-22 season. While he has begun the new season on a high with four goals from seven appearances, the Argentine star admitted that it was tough for him to shift from Barcelona to PSG.&nbsp;

“Last year was difficult for me, it was hard after a very big change, after being in the same place for so long,” he said in an interview with Diario AS.

The defeat against Real Madrid in the UEFA Champions League was a big jolt to PSG's campaign in the last season. Messi reflected on the loss and has high hopes from the French club this time around, a season which will be interrupted with the commencement of the upcoming FIFA World Cup in Qatar&nbsp;in November-December. "The objective this season everyone knows. PSG have been eager for a long time to win the Champions League. Last season’s elimination was very hard because of how it happened, because we had played two great games against Real Madrid and the tie was lost in small details,"&nbsp;the superstar football pointed out.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/mother-of-fan-whose-phone-was-smashed-by-cristiano-ronaldo-demands-right-punishment-for-man-utd-star-519878">Mother of fan whose phone was smashed by Cristiano Ronaldo, demands 'right punishment' for Man Utd star</a>

“It is an unusual season, because the World Cup is in the middle, but the main objective of PSG, like every year, is to be able to vie for the Champions League. It is a very difficult competition to win, because it is not always won by the best team. It is always decided by small details, any mistake can see you removed from the knockout rounds, but we are preparing ourselves for when those tough moments come, we are at our very best,” Messi added.

The Messi-Kylian Mbappe-Neymar-starrer PSG is riding on a high at the moment. Having won seven out of their eight encounters in Ligue 1, including a draw, the French club will hope to carry on with the momentum and win big in the 2022-23 season.

Last year saw Lionel Messi being forced to part ways with FC Barcelona. Many closely followed the Messi transfer news, which made heads turn in the football fraternity, before the Argentina captain joined Paris Saint Germain (PSG) as a free agent.

Last year saw Lionel Messi being forced to part ways with FC Barcelona. Many closely followed the Messi transfer news, which made heads turn in the football fraternity, before the Argentina captain joined Paris Saint Germain (PSG) as a free agent. Many had high hopes from him to hit the ground running in his first-ever season in France, in a club filled with some big names, but the 35-year-old had an underwhelming debut season in PSG. Messi ended with only 11 goals for PSG across all competitions in the 2021-22 season. While he has begun the new season on a high with four goals from seven appearances, the Argentine star admitted that it was tough for him to shift from Barcelona to PSG. “Last year was difficult for me, it was hard after a very big change, after being in the same place for so long,” he said in an interview with Diario AS. The defeat against Real Madrid in the UEFA Champions League was a big jolt to PSG's campaign in the last season. Messi reflected on the loss and has high hopes from the French club this time around, a season which will be interrupted with the commencement of the upcoming FIFA World Cup in Qatar in November-December. "The objective this season everyone knows. PSG have been eager for a long time to win the Champions League. Last season’s elimination was very hard because of how it happened, because we had played two great games against Real Madrid and the tie was lost in small details," the superstar football pointed out. ALSO READ | Mother of fan whose phone was smashed by Cristiano Ronaldo, demands 'right punishment' for Man Utd star “It is an unusual season, because the World Cup is in the middle, but the main objective of PSG, like every year, is to be able to vie for the Champions League. It is a very difficult competition to win, because it is not always won by the best team. It is always decided by small details, any mistake can see you removed from the knockout rounds, but we are preparing ourselves for when those tough moments come, we are at our very best,” Messi added. The Messi-Kylian Mbappe-Neymar-starrer PSG is riding on a high at the moment. Having won seven out of their eight encounters in Ligue 1, including a draw, the French club will hope to carry on with the momentum and win big in the 2022-23 season.

Last year was difficult: Lionel Messi opens up on underwhelming first season at PSG after Barcelona exit

Rohit Sharma-led India beat Australia by six wickets in a high-scoring thriller in Hyderabad on Sunday (September 25) in what was the series decider of the three T20Is between the two heavyweight teams. With the series evenly poised at 1-1, the home side went past Aaron Finch-led Australia by chasing 187 on the penultimate ball of the contest to take the series 2-1.&nbsp;

With this win, skipper Rohit also attained a huge feat. He surpassed his predecessor Virat Kohli to take the second spot in the list of most wins as India's T20I captain. Former captain MS Dhoni, who led India to the 2007 T20 World Cup title, remains at the top but Rohit has gone past Virat and will now aim to take the top spot in future.

Most T20I wins as Indian captain

42 - MS Dhoni, in 72 matches

33 - Rohit Sharma, in 42 matches

32 - Virat Kohli, in 50 matches

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-aus-rohit-co-break-pakistans-t20i-world-record-with-thrilling-series-win-over-world-champions-519682">Ind vs Aus: Rohit &amp; Co. break Pakistan's T20I world record with thrilling series win over world champions</a>

Following India's six-wicket win in Hyderabad, Rohit pointed out at the post-match presentation, "Biggest positive was different individuals stepping up and delivering. You feel good about it as a management. Margin of error in T20s is small. We took our chances, we were brave as well. Sometime it doesn't come off. There are areas to improve as well."

At the Hyderabad T20I, India opted to bowl first and rode on Axar Patel's 3 for 33 to restrict Australia to 186-7, courtesy of Cameron Green's 52, Tim David's 54 and Daniel Sams' 28 not out. In reply, Suryakumar Yadav's impressive 69, off 36 balls, and Virat's crucial 63 laid the foundation for the Men in Blue before Hardik Pandya's 16-ball 25 not-out closed the run-chase for India.&nbsp;

Rohit Sharma-led India beat Australia by six wickets in a high-scoring thriller in Hyderabad on Sunday (September 25) in what was the series decider of the three T20Is between the two heavyweight teams.

Rohit Sharma-led India beat Australia by six wickets in a high-scoring thriller in Hyderabad on Sunday (September 25) in what was the series decider of the three T20Is between the two heavyweight teams. With the series evenly poised at 1-1, the home side went past Aaron Finch-led Australia by chasing 187 on the penultimate ball of the contest to take the series 2-1. With this win, skipper Rohit also attained a huge feat. He surpassed his predecessor Virat Kohli to take the second spot in the list of most wins as India's T20I captain. Former captain MS Dhoni, who led India to the 2007 T20 World Cup title, remains at the top but Rohit has gone past Virat and will now aim to take the top spot in future. Most T20I wins as Indian captain 42 - MS Dhoni, in 72 matches 33 - Rohit Sharma, in 42 matches 32 - Virat Kohli, in 50 matches ALSO READ | Ind vs Aus: Rohit & Co. break Pakistan's T20I world record with thrilling series win over world champions Following India's six-wicket win in Hyderabad, Rohit pointed out at the post-match presentation, "Biggest positive was different individuals stepping up and delivering. You feel good about it as a management. Margin of error in T20s is small. We took our chances, we were brave as well. Sometime it doesn't come off. There are areas to improve as well." At the Hyderabad T20I, India opted to bowl first and rode on Axar Patel's 3 for 33 to restrict Australia to 186-7, courtesy of Cameron Green's 52, Tim David's 54 and Daniel Sams' 28 not out. In reply, Suryakumar Yadav's impressive 69, off 36 balls, and Virat's crucial 63 laid the foundation for the Men in Blue before Hardik Pandya's 16-ball 25 not-out closed the run-chase for India.

Rohit Sharma surpasses Virat Kohli to become India's second-most successful T20I captain

After levelling the three-match T20I series in Nagpur on Friday (September 23), Rohit Sharma-led India beat Australia in the decider on Sunday (September 25) in a thrilling run-chase in Hyderabad. Being asked to bat first, Aaron Finch-led Aussies were off to a flier courtesy of Cameron Green's blitz (21-ball 52) before Tim David's 54 and Daniel Sams' 28 off 20 balls propelled the visitors to a competitive 186-7. In reply, Rohit &amp; Co. chased down the score on the penultimate ball of the contest with six wickets in hand.

Reeling at 30 for 2, India rode on a 104-run third-wicket stand between half-centurions Virat Kohli (63) and Suryakumar Yadav (69) to initiate the hosts' recovery before Hardik Pandya (16-ball 25 not out) took them past the finish line. With this series win, right before the T20 World Cup in Australia from October-November,&nbsp;the Men in Blue have now set a new world record for the most T20I victories in a calendar year by a team. India move past arch-rivals Pakistan's record which they set last year (2021). India earned their 21st win in the format after the Hyderabad face-off versus Australia whereas Babar Azam's Pakistan had notched up 20 victories last year.&nbsp;

Most T20I wins in a year

India - 21 in 29 matches - 2022

Pakistan - 20 in 29 matches - 2021

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kohli-and-suryakumar-smash-brilliant-fifties-as-india-beat-australia-by-6-wickets-in-3rd-t20i-to-clinch-series-519606">Kohli and Suryakumar smash brilliant fifties as India beat Australia by 6 wickets in 3rd T20I to clinch series</a>

At the post-match presentation, Rohit said, "It's a special place. We have had great memories playing for India and when I played for Deccan Chargers as well. Biggest positive was different individuals stepping up and delivering. You feel good about it as a management. The margin of error in T20s is small. We took our chances, we were brave as well. Sometimes it doesn't come off. There are areas to improve as well. Not easy coming back after a break against a tough team. They (Bumrah and Harshal) will take some time. Hopefully, they can get back into their groove in the next series."

India will now shift their focus to the three-match T20I series versus South Africa, at home, which gets underway on September 28 (Wednesday).&nbsp;

After levelling the three-match T20I series in Nagpur on Friday (September 23), Rohit Sharma-led India beat Australia in the decider on Sunday (September 25) in a thrilling run-chase in Hyderabad.

After levelling the three-match T20I series in Nagpur on Friday (September 23), Rohit Sharma-led India beat Australia in the decider on Sunday (September 25) in a thrilling run-chase in Hyderabad. Being asked to bat first, Aaron Finch-led Aussies were off to a flier courtesy of Cameron Green's blitz (21-ball 52) before Tim David's 54 and Daniel Sams' 28 off 20 balls propelled the visitors to a competitive 186-7. In reply, Rohit & Co. chased down the score on the penultimate ball of the contest with six wickets in hand. Reeling at 30 for 2, India rode on a 104-run third-wicket stand between half-centurions Virat Kohli (63) and Suryakumar Yadav (69) to initiate the hosts' recovery before Hardik Pandya (16-ball 25 not out) took them past the finish line. With this series win, right before the T20 World Cup in Australia from October-November, the Men in Blue have now set a new world record for the most T20I victories in a calendar year by a team. India move past arch-rivals Pakistan's record which they set last year (2021). India earned their 21st win in the format after the Hyderabad face-off versus Australia whereas Babar Azam's Pakistan had notched up 20 victories last year. Most T20I wins in a year India - 21 in 29 matches - 2022 Pakistan - 20 in 29 matches - 2021 ALSO READ | Kohli and Suryakumar smash brilliant fifties as India beat Australia by 6 wickets in 3rd T20I to clinch series At the post-match presentation, Rohit said, "It's a special place. We have had great memories playing for India and when I played for Deccan Chargers as well. Biggest positive was different individuals stepping up and delivering. You feel good about it as a management. The margin of error in T20s is small. We took our chances, we were brave as well. Sometimes it doesn't come off. There are areas to improve as well. Not easy coming back after a break against a tough team. They (Bumrah and Harshal) will take some time. Hopefully, they can get back into their groove in the next series." India will now shift their focus to the three-match T20I series versus South Africa, at home, which gets underway on September 28 (Wednesday).

Ind vs Aus: Rohit & Co. break Pakistan's T20I world record with thrilling series win over world champions

The United States won the&nbsp;Presidents&nbsp;Cup&nbsp;for a ninth consecutive time on Sunday with Tokyo Olympic champion Xander Schauffele delivering the clinching point in a 17.5-12.5 triumph over the Internationals. Schauffele never trailed in defeating Canada's Corey Conners 1-up, sinking a three-foot par putt at the 18th hole to lift the US squad to 15.5 points and seal the overall triumph at Quail Hollow.

"It feels good to win," Schauffele said. "It got pretty close there for a little bit. Winning is winning." The Americans, who led 11-7 entering the 12 final singles matches, improved to 12-1-1 in the all-time rivalry and have never lost on home soil. "They played great," US captain Davis Love said. "It was hard. They put in a lot of effort the last three weeks. They came in ready to go."

Conners, winless for the week, missed a five-foot par putt at 17 to keep Schauffele 1-up. At 18, Schauffele dropped his third shot three feet from the hole and, after Conners missed his third from a bunker, rolled in the deciding putt to tie the hole, win the match and set off a US celebration. "I was handed the opportunity and I was able to take advantage of it," Schauffele said.

The Internationals couldn't make the greatest last-day comeback in&nbsp;Presidents&nbsp;Cup&nbsp;history and haven't lifted the trophy since 1998. "We're a little disappointed," Internationals captain Trevor Immelman said. "We believed in ourselves. "We had an amazing week. They were fighting. These guys have massive hearts. I'll go into battle with them any day."

With 10 of the world's 16 top-ranked players, the US team was a heavy favorite over a global side that lost British Open champion Cam Smith and several other top players who jumped from the PGA Tour to LIV Golf, making them ineligible. "Trevor and his guys did a great job of rising to the occasion," Love said.

Tony Finau won five of the last nine holes to defeat Canada's Taylor Pendrith 3&amp;1 and lift the Americans within a point of clinching the&nbsp;Cup. "I fought as hard as I've ever fought in a match," Finau said. "You just have to get the job done." Jordan Spieth, winless in seven prior Ryder and&nbsp;Presidents&nbsp;Cup&nbsp;singles matches, became only the sixth player to go 5-0 in a single&nbsp;Presidents&nbsp;Cup, winning four holes in a row late to defeat Australia's Cam Davis 4&amp;3 for the first US point.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/scrappy-internationals-stun-us-to-leave-presidents-cup-up-for-grabs-519535">Scrappy Internationals stun US to leave Presidents Cup up for grabs</a>

"I was extra nervous," Spieth said. "I wanted to get that monkey off my back. They are looking for red on the board and it feels really good to finally provide that. "You can't put a price on this. I did as much as I could this week."

Patrick Cantlay never trailed in beating Australia's Adam Scott 3&amp;2 for the second US point. Cantlay went 3-up after four holes and Scott,&nbsp;Cup-less in 10 tries, was never nearer than 2-down after that. Sam Burns finished the week winless but helped the US cause by tying Japan's Hideki Matsuyama.

<h2>- Thomas, Scheffler lose -</h2>

The global stars pulled off two early upsets to delay the US party. South Korea's&nbsp;Kim Si-woo beat Justin Thomas 1-up, the American falling to 0-3 in career&nbsp;Presidents&nbsp;Cup&nbsp;singles. Thomas, who went 4-0 with Spieth in pairs, lost after Kim sank a 10-foot birdie putt at 18 and Thomas missed his from three inches closer.

"I believed I could do it and I did it," Kim said. "I've never (felt) this pressure. Real hard match. I kept the pressure to him and kept positive and that's why it worked."

Thomas won the 2017 PGA Championship at Quail Hollow and his second major at this year's PGA. Colombian Sebastian Munoz beat top-ranked Scottie Scheffler 2&amp;1, the Masters champion going 0-3-1 this week, worst mark of any world number one in a&nbsp;Presidents&nbsp;Cup.

"It was tough," Munoz said. "It was one of the best things I've ever achieved in my life. It took everything. I threw everything at him." In post-clinch finishes, South Korea's Im Sung-jae beat Cameron Young 1-up, Lee Kyoung-hoon downed Billy Horschel 3&amp;1, Max Homa beat South Korea's Kim Joo-hyung 1-up, Collin Morikawa defeated Chile's Mito Pereira 3&amp;2 and South African Christiaan Bezuidenhout downed Kevin Kisner 2&amp;1.\

The United States won the Presidents Cup for a ninth consecutive time on Sunday with Tokyo Olympic champion Xander Schauffele delivering the clinching point in a 17.

The United States won the Presidents Cup for a ninth consecutive time on Sunday with Tokyo Olympic champion Xander Schauffele delivering the clinching point in a 17.5-12.5 triumph over the Internationals. Schauffele never trailed in defeating Canada's Corey Conners 1-up, sinking a three-foot par putt at the 18th hole to lift the US squad to 15.5 points and seal the overall triumph at Quail Hollow. "It feels good to win," Schauffele said. "It got pretty close there for a little bit. Winning is winning." The Americans, who led 11-7 entering the 12 final singles matches, improved to 12-1-1 in the all-time rivalry and have never lost on home soil. "They played great," US captain Davis Love said. "It was hard. They put in a lot of effort the last three weeks. They came in ready to go." Conners, winless for the week, missed a five-foot par putt at 17 to keep Schauffele 1-up. At 18, Schauffele dropped his third shot three feet from the hole and, after Conners missed his third from a bunker, rolled in the deciding putt to tie the hole, win the match and set off a US celebration. "I was handed the opportunity and I was able to take advantage of it," Schauffele said. The Internationals couldn't make the greatest last-day comeback in Presidents Cup history and haven't lifted the trophy since 1998. "We're a little disappointed," Internationals captain Trevor Immelman said. "We believed in ourselves. "We had an amazing week. They were fighting. These guys have massive hearts. I'll go into battle with them any day." With 10 of the world's 16 top-ranked players, the US team was a heavy favorite over a global side that lost British Open champion Cam Smith and several other top players who jumped from the PGA Tour to LIV Golf, making them ineligible. "Trevor and his guys did a great job of rising to the occasion," Love said. Tony Finau won five of the last nine holes to defeat Canada's Taylor Pendrith 3&1 and lift the Americans within a point of clinching the Cup. "I fought as hard as I've ever fought in a match," Finau said. "You just have to get the job done." Jordan Spieth, winless in seven prior Ryder and Presidents Cup singles matches, became only the sixth player to go 5-0 in a single Presidents Cup, winning four holes in a row late to defeat Australia's Cam Davis 4&3 for the first US point. ALSO READ | Scrappy Internationals stun US to leave Presidents Cup up for grabs "I was extra nervous," Spieth said. "I wanted to get that monkey off my back. They are looking for red on the board and it feels really good to finally provide that. "You can't put a price on this. I did as much as I could this week." Patrick Cantlay never trailed in beating Australia's Adam Scott 3&2 for the second US point. Cantlay went 3-up after four holes and Scott, Cup-less in 10 tries, was never nearer than 2-down after that. Sam Burns finished the week winless but helped the US cause by tying Japan's Hideki Matsuyama. - Thomas, Scheffler lose - The global stars pulled off two early upsets to delay the US party. South Korea's Kim Si-woo beat Justin Thomas 1-up, the American falling to 0-3 in career Presidents Cup singles. Thomas, who went 4-0 with Spieth in pairs, lost after Kim sank a 10-foot birdie putt at 18 and Thomas missed his from three inches closer. "I believed I could do it and I did it," Kim said. "I've never (felt) this pressure. Real hard match. I kept the pressure to him and kept positive and that's why it worked." Thomas won the 2017 PGA Championship at Quail Hollow and his second major at this year's PGA. Colombian Sebastian Munoz beat top-ranked Scottie Scheffler 2&1, the Masters champion going 0-3-1 this week, worst mark of any world number one in a Presidents Cup. "It was tough," Munoz said. "It was one of the best things I've ever achieved in my life. It took everything. I threw everything at him." In post-clinch finishes, South Korea's Im Sung-jae beat Cameron Young 1-up, Lee Kyoung-hoon downed Billy Horschel 3&1, Max Homa beat South Korea's Kim Joo-hyung 1-up, Collin Morikawa defeated Chile's Mito Pereira 3&2 and South African Christiaan Bezuidenhout downed Kevin Kisner 2&1.\

United States secures ninth successive Presidents Cup

Floyd&nbsp;Mayweather knocked out mixed martial arts fighter Mikuru Asakura in the second round on Sunday in Japan in the latest of the boxing great's post-retirement exhibitions. The 45-year-old Mayweather floored his opponent with a right hand as his former welterweight foe Manny Pacquiao watched ringside in Saitama. The American Mayweather, who retired in 2017 with an unbeaten 50-0 record, afterwards dismissed any prospect of a fight with the similarly retired Pacquiao.

Mayweather arrived at Saitama Super Arena, north of Tokyo, just an hour before the fight. He was shown on TV relaxing in a dressing room full of takeaway fast food, prior to making his ringwalk. On another easy payday for the self-styled "Money" Mayweather, the bell to end the second round sounded as Asakura hit the canvas, but it failed to save the Japanese fighter and he was unable to beat the count. "It was another blockbuster turnout... boxing for me is like breathing," Mayweather said, adding he is looking to fight more "YouTubers and MMA guys".

Philippine great Pacquiao is not on his radar. "I retired for a reason," said Mayweather. "I'm here to have fun and enjoy myself... but I'm not going to take no punishment to the point to where I can barely walk and barely talk. "People will always pay to get a glimpse of&nbsp;Floyd&nbsp;Mayweather," he said, before asking, "so why would I go out there and... fight a top fighter when I can get the same amount of money for three rounds with whoever?"

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/scrappy-internationals-stun-us-to-leave-presidents-cup-up-for-grabs-519535">Scrappy Internationals stun US to leave Presidents Cup up for grabs</a>

Asakura, an MMA star and popular YouTuber in Japan, gave Mayweather more of a workout than the last time the American fought an exhibition in Japan, against kickboxing prodigy Tenshin Nasukawa in December 2018. "I'm glad he threw a few shots, got the crowd excited. That's what it's about," Mayweather said.&nbsp; "I'm proud of him. I'm proud he came out here. He helped me entertain people. He did what he was supposed to do... We both had fun."

Mayweather is reportedly close to agreeing a rematch in 2023 with UFC star Conor McGregor. Mayweather beat McGregor in his final fight before retirement. The Mayweather-Asakura bout had no judges, meaning the result would not count on the fighter's record.&nbsp; Mayweather predicted last week that the fight would be an "easy payday, easy cheque, easy opponent". His retirement has not stopped him from raking in millions of dollars from a series of exhibitions. In his 2018 match with Nasukawa, a kickboxer less than half his age, Mayweather floored him three times in the first round in a two-minute fight that he hinted online had netted him $9 million.

Floyd Mayweather knocked out mixed martial arts fighter Mikuru Asakura in the second round on Sunday in Japan in the latest of the boxing great's post-retirement exhibitions.

Floyd Mayweather knocked out mixed martial arts fighter Mikuru Asakura in the second round on Sunday in Japan in the latest of the boxing great's post-retirement exhibitions. The 45-year-old Mayweather floored his opponent with a right hand as his former welterweight foe Manny Pacquiao watched ringside in Saitama. The American Mayweather, who retired in 2017 with an unbeaten 50-0 record, afterwards dismissed any prospect of a fight with the similarly retired Pacquiao. Mayweather arrived at Saitama Super Arena, north of Tokyo, just an hour before the fight. He was shown on TV relaxing in a dressing room full of takeaway fast food, prior to making his ringwalk. On another easy payday for the self-styled "Money" Mayweather, the bell to end the second round sounded as Asakura hit the canvas, but it failed to save the Japanese fighter and he was unable to beat the count. "It was another blockbuster turnout... boxing for me is like breathing," Mayweather said, adding he is looking to fight more "YouTubers and MMA guys". Philippine great Pacquiao is not on his radar. "I retired for a reason," said Mayweather. "I'm here to have fun and enjoy myself... but I'm not going to take no punishment to the point to where I can barely walk and barely talk. "People will always pay to get a glimpse of Floyd Mayweather," he said, before asking, "so why would I go out there and... fight a top fighter when I can get the same amount of money for three rounds with whoever?" ALSO READ | Scrappy Internationals stun US to leave Presidents Cup up for grabs Asakura, an MMA star and popular YouTuber in Japan, gave Mayweather more of a workout than the last time the American fought an exhibition in Japan, against kickboxing prodigy Tenshin Nasukawa in December 2018. "I'm glad he threw a few shots, got the crowd excited. That's what it's about," Mayweather said. "I'm proud of him. I'm proud he came out here. He helped me entertain people. He did what he was supposed to do... We both had fun." Mayweather is reportedly close to agreeing a rematch in 2023 with UFC star Conor McGregor. Mayweather beat McGregor in his final fight before retirement. The Mayweather-Asakura bout had no judges, meaning the result would not count on the fighter's record. Mayweather predicted last week that the fight would be an "easy payday, easy cheque, easy opponent". His retirement has not stopped him from raking in millions of dollars from a series of exhibitions. In his 2018 match with Nasukawa, a kickboxer less than half his age, Mayweather floored him three times in the first round in a two-minute fight that he hinted online had netted him $9 million.

Former world champion Floyd Mayweather knocks out Japan’s Mikuru Asakura in exhibition match

Teenaged Indian Grandmaster Arjun Erigaisi went down against world no.1 Magnus Carlsen in the final of the Julius Baer Generation Cup online rapid chess tournament, losing the second match 0-2. Having won the first match, the Norwegian had the advantage and he won the first two games of the second match to close out the finale early on Monday.

Having won the first match, comprising four games, 2.5-0.5, Carlsen needed to only draw the second to take the top prize. He won two games of the second match and shut out Erigaisi. The final was a two-match affair with each match consisting of four games. If the players had won a match each, a blitz tie-break would have been required to decide the winner. Requiring to win the second match to have a chance to push the final to a tie-break, the 19-year old Indian player found himself in trouble against the world no.1 in red-hot form. Erigaisi resigned on move 48 and slipped into further trouble.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/unfortunately-i-cannot-speak-on-that-magnus-carlsen-refuses-to-clarify-cheating-claims-518767">'Unfortunately, I cannot speak on that': Magnus Carlsen refuses to clarify cheating claims</a>

The second game was over in 52 moves as Carlsen dashed the Indian GM's hopes. Carlsen had been unstoppable in the preliminary phase and lost just one game, resigning after just two moves against Hans Niemann and subsequently dropping a game to Lev Aronian in the quarterfinals. 
Carlsen's performance makes him the first player to hit the historic 2900 Tour Rating mark. Erigaisi, with a fine performance in the Julius Baer Cup, part of the Meltwater Chess Tour, has qualified for the eight-player tour final in San Francisco later this year.

Teenaged Indian Grandmaster Arjun Erigaisi went down against world no.1 Magnus Carlsen in the final of the Julius Baer Generation Cup online rapid chess tournament, losing the second match 0-2.

Teenaged Indian Grandmaster Arjun Erigaisi went down against world no.1 Magnus Carlsen in the final of the Julius Baer Generation Cup online rapid chess tournament, losing the second match 0-2. Having won the first match, the Norwegian had the advantage and he won the first two games of the second match to close out the finale early on Monday. Having won the first match, comprising four games, 2.5-0.5, Carlsen needed to only draw the second to take the top prize. He won two games of the second match and shut out Erigaisi. The final was a two-match affair with each match consisting of four games. If the players had won a match each, a blitz tie-break would have been required to decide the winner. Requiring to win the second match to have a chance to push the final to a tie-break, the 19-year old Indian player found himself in trouble against the world no.1 in red-hot form. Erigaisi resigned on move 48 and slipped into further trouble. ALSO READ | 'Unfortunately, I cannot speak on that': Magnus Carlsen refuses to clarify cheating claims The second game was over in 52 moves as Carlsen dashed the Indian GM's hopes. Carlsen had been unstoppable in the preliminary phase and lost just one game, resigning after just two moves against Hans Niemann and subsequently dropping a game to Lev Aronian in the quarterfinals. Carlsen's performance makes him the first player to hit the historic 2900 Tour Rating mark. Erigaisi, with a fine performance in the Julius Baer Cup, part of the Meltwater Chess Tour, has qualified for the eight-player tour final in San Francisco later this year.

Julius Baer Cup: Indian GM Erigaisi loses to World No. 1 Magnus Carlsen in final

After beating Australia in a riveting three-match T20I series, Rohit Sharma-led India will now gear up to face South Africa in three T20Is, followed by three ODIs as well, at home. Temba Bavuma-led South Africa were in India in early June for a five-match T20I series. Back then, a second-stringed Rishabh Pant-led Indian team ended the series in a 2-2 stalemate. It will be interesting to see how the series pans out this time around with both teams being at their full-strength.

The T20Is have more prominence given the T20 World Cup is just a few weeks away, in Australia from October 16. The series will be followed by three ODIs as well where, as per reports, India will be without many of their T20 WC-bound players. In their absence, Shikhar Dhawan is expected to take charge of the side once again and lead an inexperienced line-up.&nbsp;

In terms of rankings, India are the No. 1 T20I side with Proteas at the third position. In the ICC ODI rankings, India are placed at the third spot with the visitors at the sixth position. Here's everything you need to know about SA's white-ball tour of India:

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-strengthen-lead-at-the-top-in-icc-t20i-rankings-with-thrilling-series-win-vs-australia-519787">India strengthen lead at the top in ICC T20I rankings with thrilling series win vs Australia</a>

Full Schedule

T20I series

1st T20I at Thiruvananthapuram (September 28)

2nd T20I at Guwahati (October 02)

3rd T20I at Indore (October 04)

ODI series

1st ODI at Lucknow (October 6)

2nd ODI at Ranchi (October 9)

3rd ODI at Delhi (October 11)

Squads

India’s T20I squad:&nbsp;Rohit Sharma (c), KL Rahul, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Deepak Hooda, Rishabh Pant, Dinesh Karthik, Ravichandran Ashwin, Yuzvendra Chahal, Axar Patel, Arshdeep Singh, Mohammed Shami, Harshal Patel, Deepak Chahar, Jasprit Bumrah.

South Africa T20I squad:&nbsp;Temba Bavuma (c), Quinton de Kock, Reeza Hendricks, Heinrich Klaasen, Keshav Maharaj, Aiden Markram, David Miller, Lungi Ngidi, Anrich Nortje, Wayne Parnell, Dwaine Pretorius, Kagiso Rabada, Rilee Rossouw, Tabraiz Shamsi, Tristan Stubbs.

South Africa ODI squad:&nbsp;Temba Bavuma (c), Quinton de Kock, Reeza Hendricks, Heinrich Klaasen, Keshav Maharaj, Janneman Malan, Aiden Markram, David Miller, Lungi Ngidi, Anrich Nortje, Wayne Parnell, Andile Phehlukwayo, Dwaine Pretorius, Kagiso Rabada, Tabraiz Shamsi.

India's ODI squad: Not announced yet

Telecast and Streaming details

All three T20Is will get underway at 7pm IST whereas the 50-over fixtures will commence at 1:30 PM IST. The live telecast of the white-ball matches will be on Star Sports Network on TV with the live streaming available on the Disney+Hotstar app and website.

After beating Australia in a riveting three-match T20I series, Rohit Sharma-led India will now gear up to face South Africa in three T20Is, followed by three ODIs as well, at home.

After beating Australia in a riveting three-match T20I series, Rohit Sharma-led India will now gear up to face South Africa in three T20Is, followed by three ODIs as well, at home. Temba Bavuma-led South Africa were in India in early June for a five-match T20I series. Back then, a second-stringed Rishabh Pant-led Indian team ended the series in a 2-2 stalemate. It will be interesting to see how the series pans out this time around with both teams being at their full-strength. The T20Is have more prominence given the T20 World Cup is just a few weeks away, in Australia from October 16. The series will be followed by three ODIs as well where, as per reports, India will be without many of their T20 WC-bound players. In their absence, Shikhar Dhawan is expected to take charge of the side once again and lead an inexperienced line-up. In terms of rankings, India are the No. 1 T20I side with Proteas at the third position. In the ICC ODI rankings, India are placed at the third spot with the visitors at the sixth position. Here's everything you need to know about SA's white-ball tour of India: ALSO READ | India strengthen lead at the top in ICC T20I rankings with thrilling series win vs Australia Full Schedule T20I series 1st T20I at Thiruvananthapuram (September 28) 2nd T20I at Guwahati (October 02) 3rd T20I at Indore (October 04) ODI series 1st ODI at Lucknow (October 6) 2nd ODI at Ranchi (October 9) 3rd ODI at Delhi (October 11) Squads India’s T20I squad: Rohit Sharma (c), KL Rahul, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Deepak Hooda, Rishabh Pant, Dinesh Karthik, Ravichandran Ashwin, Yuzvendra Chahal, Axar Patel, Arshdeep Singh, Mohammed Shami, Harshal Patel, Deepak Chahar, Jasprit Bumrah. South Africa T20I squad: Temba Bavuma (c), Quinton de Kock, Reeza Hendricks, Heinrich Klaasen, Keshav Maharaj, Aiden Markram, David Miller, Lungi Ngidi, Anrich Nortje, Wayne Parnell, Dwaine Pretorius, Kagiso Rabada, Rilee Rossouw, Tabraiz Shamsi, Tristan Stubbs. South Africa ODI squad: Temba Bavuma (c), Quinton de Kock, Reeza Hendricks, Heinrich Klaasen, Keshav Maharaj, Janneman Malan, Aiden Markram, David Miller, Lungi Ngidi, Anrich Nortje, Wayne Parnell, Andile Phehlukwayo, Dwaine Pretorius, Kagiso Rabada, Tabraiz Shamsi. India's ODI squad: Not announced yet Telecast and Streaming details All three T20Is will get underway at 7pm IST whereas the 50-over fixtures will commence at 1:30 PM IST. The live telecast of the white-ball matches will be on Star Sports Network on TV with the live streaming available on the Disney+Hotstar app and website.

South Africa's white-ball tour of India: Fixtures, squads, telecast and streaming details

Shaheen Afridi is on recovery mode. The young pacer got injured during the Pakistan-Sri Lanka Tests, in the Island nation, and missed the Asia Cup before flying to London. While Babar Azam-led Men in Green need him fit desperately before the forthcoming T20 World Cup, with Shaheen already named in the 15-man main squad, former Pakistan pacer Aaquib Javed has shared a bizarre advice for the 22-year-old.

“Fast bowlers like Shaheen Afridi are not born every day. My advice to Shaheen Afridi is not to play the upcoming T20 World Cup because Shaheen is more important than this World Cup," Aaqib was quoted as saying by Cricket Pakistan. Shaheen was one of the key performers for Babar &amp; Co. in last year's T20 WC, held in the UAE. The pacer wreaked havoc with the ball in Men in Green's face-off versus Team India, returning with the Player-of-the-Match award for 3 for 31, and ended the showpiece event with seven scalps at an average of 24.14 and economy rate of 7.04.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/violence-flares-up-in-uks-leicester-amid-protests-after-india-pakistan-asia-cup-clash-15-arrested-517588">Tension in UK's Leicester days after India-Pakistan Asia Cup clash, 15 arrested</a>

Currently, Shaheen is in London&nbsp;for his rehabilitation and will also miss Pakistan's home series versus England, followed by the tri-series in New Zealand (also featuring Bangladesh). However, the whole of Pakistan have their hopes alive of seeing him return to action when they take on India in their 2022 T20 WC opener, at the iconic MCG, Melbourne on October 23.

"Shaheen Shah Afridi requires uninterrupted, dedicated knee specialist care and London offers some of the best sports medical and rehabilitation facilities in the world. In the best interest of the player, we have decided to send him there," PCB Chief Medical Officer, Dr Najeebullah Soomro shared in a statement released by ICC.&nbsp;

The release further added,&nbsp;"Whilst in London, Shaheen will remain under the supervision of the PCB Medical Advisory Panel, which also comprises London-based Dr Imtiaz Ahmad and Dr Zafar Iqbal. Since 2016, Dr Imtiaz has been the Head of Medical Services at the Queens Park Rangers Football Club, while Dr Zafar is Head of Sports Medicine at the Crystal Palace Football Club since 2015 (having worked previously with Tottenham Hotspur FC, Liverpool FC and Kent County Cricket Club)."

Shaheen Afridi is on recovery mode. The young pacer got injured during the Pakistan-Sri Lanka Tests, in the Island nation, and missed the Asia Cup before flying to London.

Shaheen Afridi is on recovery mode. The young pacer got injured during the Pakistan-Sri Lanka Tests, in the Island nation, and missed the Asia Cup before flying to London. While Babar Azam-led Men in Green need him fit desperately before the forthcoming T20 World Cup, with Shaheen already named in the 15-man main squad, former Pakistan pacer Aaquib Javed has shared a bizarre advice for the 22-year-old. “Fast bowlers like Shaheen Afridi are not born every day. My advice to Shaheen Afridi is not to play the upcoming T20 World Cup because Shaheen is more important than this World Cup," Aaqib was quoted as saying by Cricket Pakistan. Shaheen was one of the key performers for Babar & Co. in last year's T20 WC, held in the UAE. The pacer wreaked havoc with the ball in Men in Green's face-off versus Team India, returning with the Player-of-the-Match award for 3 for 31, and ended the showpiece event with seven scalps at an average of 24.14 and economy rate of 7.04. ALSO READ | Tension in UK's Leicester days after India-Pakistan Asia Cup clash, 15 arrested Currently, Shaheen is in London for his rehabilitation and will also miss Pakistan's home series versus England, followed by the tri-series in New Zealand (also featuring Bangladesh). However, the whole of Pakistan have their hopes alive of seeing him return to action when they take on India in their 2022 T20 WC opener, at the iconic MCG, Melbourne on October 23. "Shaheen Shah Afridi requires uninterrupted, dedicated knee specialist care and London offers some of the best sports medical and rehabilitation facilities in the world. In the best interest of the player, we have decided to send him there," PCB Chief Medical Officer, Dr Najeebullah Soomro shared in a statement released by ICC. The release further added, "Whilst in London, Shaheen will remain under the supervision of the PCB Medical Advisory Panel, which also comprises London-based Dr Imtiaz Ahmad and Dr Zafar Iqbal. Since 2016, Dr Imtiaz has been the Head of Medical Services at the Queens Park Rangers Football Club, while Dr Zafar is Head of Sports Medicine at the Crystal Palace Football Club since 2015 (having worked previously with Tottenham Hotspur FC, Liverpool FC and Kent County Cricket Club)."

Don't play T20 World Cup: Aaquib Javed's absurd suggestion to Pakistan pacer Shaheen Afridi

India's T20 World Cup squad was announced last week, on September 12. The squad features majority of them who appeared in the Asia Cup 2022 edition and also saw the return of Jasprit Bumrah and Harshal Patel. The reserves comprise Md Shami, Ravi Bishnoi, Shreyas Iyer and Deepak Chahar.&nbsp;

After a disappointing Asia Cup, India will try to regain form in their home series versus Australia and South Africa, respectively, before heading to&nbsp;the T20 WC in Aaron Finch &amp; Co.'s&nbsp;backyard. Prior to the Australia T20Is, which gets underway on Tuesday (September 20), captain Rohit Sharma addressed the media and spoke on who will accompany him in the opening slot Down Under.

Rohit said&nbsp;in&nbsp;a press conference, "Virat Kohli is our third opener and he will open in some of the games. In the last match of Asia Cup, we were happy with the way he played. But KL Rahul will open the batting in the World Cup, we do not want to experiment with that position a lot,&nbsp;his performance sometimes goes quite unnoticed."

"He (Rahul)&nbsp;is a very important player for Team India. For us, I just want to make it clear, we are clear in our thought process. We do not have any confusion, we are very clear what KL Rahul brings to the table for us, he is a quality player and is very important for us. His presence at the top is very crucial for us," Hitman added.

However, a tv anchor became a butt of all jokes after he announced that Rahul Gandhi -- popular Indian politician and former Congress President -- will open for India at the T20 WC, instead of KL Rahul.&nbsp;

"Bharatiya team ke kaptaan Rohit Sharma ne kaha ki T20 World Cup mein open karenge Rahul Gandhi. Virat Kohli ko bhi kai match mein pen karna pad sakta hai," (Team India captain&nbsp;Rohit Sharma has revealed that Rahul Gandhi will open for India at T20 World Cup. Virat Kohli too may have to open in some games) said the anchor. The&nbsp;video of the same has gone&nbsp;viral instantly.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/you-never-see-a-when-a-batter-kl-rahul-on-his-t20i-strike-rate-before-australia-series-opener-517788">'You never see when a batter...' - KL Rahul on his T20I strike rate before Australia series opener</a>

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Rahul Gandhi will open for India in T20 World Cup: India TV anchor 😂 <a href="https://t.co/1NWWg9jp7c">pic.twitter.com/1NWWg9jp7c</a>
— Out Of Context Cricket (@GemsOfCricket) <a href="https://twitter.com/GemsOfCricket/status/1571555481688350720?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 18, 2022</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sanju-samson-could-be-a-better-option-over-rishabh-pant-ex-pak-spinner-analyses-indias-t20-wc-squad-518085">Sanju Samson could be a better option over Rishabh Pant: Ex-Pak spinner analyses India's T20 WC squad</a>

Both Rahul-Rohit are currently involved in India's three-match T20I series opener versus Australia, at the PCA Stadium, Mohali on Tuesday evening. Meanwhile, the journalist of a&nbsp;Hindi-dialect&nbsp;media channel&nbsp;has been trolled massively online for his slip of tongue.

India's final 15-man squad for T20 World Cup 2022:

Rohit Sharma (C), KL Rahul (VC), Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Deepak Hooda, Rishabh Pant (WK), Dinesh Karthik (WK), Hardik Pandya, R&nbsp;Ashwin, Yuzvendra&nbsp;Chahal, Axar Patel, Jasprit Bumrah, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Harshal Patel, Arshdeep Singh

Standby players -&nbsp;Mohammed&nbsp;Shami, Shreyas Iyer, Ravi Bishnoi, Deepak Chahar

India's T20 World Cup squad was announced last week, on September 12. The squad features majority of them who appeared in the Asia Cup 2022 edition and also saw the return of Jasprit Bumrah and Harshal Patel.

India's T20 World Cup squad was announced last week, on September 12. The squad features majority of them who appeared in the Asia Cup 2022 edition and also saw the return of Jasprit Bumrah and Harshal Patel. The reserves comprise Md Shami, Ravi Bishnoi, Shreyas Iyer and Deepak Chahar. After a disappointing Asia Cup, India will try to regain form in their home series versus Australia and South Africa, respectively, before heading to the T20 WC in Aaron Finch & Co.'s backyard. Prior to the Australia T20Is, which gets underway on Tuesday (September 20), captain Rohit Sharma addressed the media and spoke on who will accompany him in the opening slot Down Under. Rohit said in a press conference, "Virat Kohli is our third opener and he will open in some of the games. In the last match of Asia Cup, we were happy with the way he played. But KL Rahul will open the batting in the World Cup, we do not want to experiment with that position a lot, his performance sometimes goes quite unnoticed." "He (Rahul) is a very important player for Team India. For us, I just want to make it clear, we are clear in our thought process. We do not have any confusion, we are very clear what KL Rahul brings to the table for us, he is a quality player and is very important for us. His presence at the top is very crucial for us," Hitman added. However, a tv anchor became a butt of all jokes after he announced that Rahul Gandhi -- popular Indian politician and former Congress President -- will open for India at the T20 WC, instead of KL Rahul. "Bharatiya team ke kaptaan Rohit Sharma ne kaha ki T20 World Cup mein open karenge Rahul Gandhi. Virat Kohli ko bhi kai match mein pen karna pad sakta hai," (Team India captain Rohit Sharma has revealed that Rahul Gandhi will open for India at T20 World Cup. Virat Kohli too may have to open in some games) said the anchor. The video of the same has gone viral instantly. ALSO READ | 'You never see when a batter...' - KL Rahul on his T20I strike rate before Australia series opener Rahul Gandhi will open for India in T20 World Cup: India TV anchor 😂 pic.twitter.com/1NWWg9jp7c — Out Of Context Cricket (@GemsOfCricket) September 18, 2022 × ALSO READ | Sanju Samson could be a better option over Rishabh Pant: Ex-Pak spinner analyses India's T20 WC squad Both Rahul-Rohit are currently involved in India's three-match T20I series opener versus Australia, at the PCA Stadium, Mohali on Tuesday evening. Meanwhile, the journalist of a Hindi-dialect media channel has been trolled massively online for his slip of tongue. India's final 15-man squad for T20 World Cup 2022: Rohit Sharma (C), KL Rahul (VC), Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Deepak Hooda, Rishabh Pant (WK), Dinesh Karthik (WK), Hardik Pandya, R Ashwin, Yuzvendra Chahal, Axar Patel, Jasprit Bumrah, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Harshal Patel, Arshdeep Singh Standby players - Mohammed Shami, Shreyas Iyer, Ravi Bishnoi, Deepak Chahar

Watch - 'Rahul Gandhi will open for India at T20 World Cup, says tv anchor as video goes viral

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