<p>Roger Federer, on Thursday (September 15), announced that he will be stepping aside from tennis after the end of this month's Laver Cup. Federer hasn't played a competitive match following his quarter-final exit at Wimbledon 2021. Hence, many predicted his retirement was on the cards but his announcement still shocked many and send&nbsp;plethora of his fans into a meltdown.</p>

<p>Not only the tennis fraternity, but superstar athletes from all other fields are sharing their reactions post Federer's big revelation. In this regard, Argentina captain and Paris Saint Germain (PSG) striker Lionel Messi also heaped praise on the Swiss maestro.</p>

<p>"A genius, unique in the history of tennis and an example for any athlete. The best in your new stage, we will miss seeing you on the court making us enjoy, Roger Federer," Messi wrote in an Instagram post.</p>

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<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CiiroDzLztJ/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Leo Messi (@leomessi)</a></p>
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<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/you-inspired-countless-millions-serena-williams-welcomes-roger-federer-to-retirement-club-516712"><strong>'You inspired countless millions' - Serena Williams welcomes Roger Federer to retirement club</strong></a></p>

<p>"As many of you know, the past three years have presented me with challenges in the form of injuries and surgeries. I've worked hard to return to full competitive form. But I also know my body's capacities and limits, and its message to me lately has been clear. I am 41 years old. I have played more than 1,500 matches over 24 years. Tennis has treated me more generously than I ever would have dreamt, and now I must recognise when it is time to end my competitive career,"&nbsp;Federer had tweeted.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="und">❤️ <a href="https://t.co/YxtVWrlXIF">pic.twitter.com/YxtVWrlXIF</a></p>
— Roger Federer (@rogerfederer) <a href="https://twitter.com/rogerfederer/status/1570402045085253632?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 15, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>Among the cricket fraternity, the likes of Sachin Tendulkar, Hardik Pandya, Dinesh Karthik and many others also reacted to the big news. Master Blaster Tendulkar tweeted saying, "What a career,&nbsp;@rogerfederer. We fell in love with your brand of tennis. Slowly, your tennis became a habit. And habits never retire, they become a part of us.&nbsp;Thank you for all the wonderful memories."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">What a career, <a href="https://twitter.com/rogerfederer?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@rogerfederer</a>. We fell in love with your brand of tennis. Slowly, your tennis became a habit. And habits never retire, they become a part of us.<br />
<br />
Thank you for all the wonderful memories. <a href="https://t.co/FFEFWGLxKR">pic.twitter.com/FFEFWGLxKR</a></p>
— Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) <a href="https://twitter.com/sachin_rt/status/1570437717439160321?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 15, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>Federer won 103 singles titles in his glittering career spanning over 24 years. The legend ends with 20 Grand Slam titles, third-most in men's singles, with 8&nbsp;Wimbledon, 6 Australian Open, 5 US Open and 1&nbsp;French Open trophies.</p>


Roger Federer, on Thursday (September 15), announced that he will be stepping aside from tennis after the end of this month's Laver Cup. Federer hasn't played a competitive match following his quarter-final exit at Wimbledon 2021.

Roger Federer, on Thursday (September 15), announced that he will be stepping aside from tennis after the end of this month's Laver Cup. Federer hasn't played a competitive match following his quarter-final exit at Wimbledon 2021. Hence, many predicted his retirement was on the cards but his announcement still shocked many and send plethora of his fans into a meltdown. Not only the tennis fraternity, but superstar athletes from all other fields are sharing their reactions post Federer's big revelation. In this regard, Argentina captain and Paris Saint Germain (PSG) striker Lionel Messi also heaped praise on the Swiss maestro. "A genius, unique in the history of tennis and an example for any athlete. The best in your new stage, we will miss seeing you on the court making us enjoy, Roger Federer," Messi wrote in an Instagram post. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Leo Messi (@leomessi) × ALSO READ | 'You inspired countless millions' - Serena Williams welcomes Roger Federer to retirement club "As many of you know, the past three years have presented me with challenges in the form of injuries and surgeries. I've worked hard to return to full competitive form. But I also know my body's capacities and limits, and its message to me lately has been clear. I am 41 years old. I have played more than 1,500 matches over 24 years. Tennis has treated me more generously than I ever would have dreamt, and now I must recognise when it is time to end my competitive career," Federer had tweeted. ❤️ pic.twitter.com/YxtVWrlXIF — Roger Federer (@rogerfederer) September 15, 2022 × Among the cricket fraternity, the likes of Sachin Tendulkar, Hardik Pandya, Dinesh Karthik and many others also reacted to the big news. Master Blaster Tendulkar tweeted saying, "What a career, @rogerfederer. We fell in love with your brand of tennis. Slowly, your tennis became a habit. And habits never retire, they become a part of us. Thank you for all the wonderful memories." What a career, @rogerfederer. We fell in love with your brand of tennis. Slowly, your tennis became a habit. And habits never retire, they become a part of us. Thank you for all the wonderful memories. pic.twitter.com/FFEFWGLxKR — Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) September 15, 2022 × Federer won 103 singles titles in his glittering career spanning over 24 years. The legend ends with 20 Grand Slam titles, third-most in men's singles, with 8 Wimbledon, 6 Australian Open, 5 US Open and 1 French Open trophies.

We will miss seeing you on the court making us enjoy: Lionel Messi all praise for 'genius' Roger Federer

<p>BCCI announced India's 15-man squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup 2022 edition, to be held in Australia from October-November. After a disappointing run in the Asia Cup, Rohit Sharma-led Men in Blue will be desperate to make amends and finalise their team combination in their remaining T20Is -- versus the Aussies and South Africa at home -- before&nbsp;the showpiece event Down Under.</p>

<p>India's squad includes several future leaders such as KL Rahul (current&nbsp;vice-captain), Hardik Pandya, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant, and Jasprit Bumrah. Former Indian opener-turned-commentator made a bold claim on his Youtube channel and feels that Pant, who doesn't have great numbers in T20Is, can be India's future captain in the format.</p>

<p>Pant&nbsp;has so far amassed 934 runs in 58 matches, at&nbsp;23.94 and a strike rate of over 126. He often invites criticism for his shot selection and not being consistent with the willow. With Dinesh Karthik's comeback, the youngster is also facing the heat to&nbsp;regularly feature in the T20I line-up due to the veteran's finishing skills. However, Chopra feels a bright future is ahead of Pant.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/his-strength-and-weakness-is-former-pakistan-skipper-decodes-rishabh-pants-batting-in-t20is-516363">'His strength and weakness is...' - Former Pakistan skipper decodes Rishabh Pant's batting in T20Is</a></strong></p>

<p>"I feel the future will be great. He might become the Indian captain in T20 cricket going forward. He will be that maverick people will be scared of. He will play in a bold fashion," an upbeat Chopra said.</p>

<p>"But at this point in time, the truth is that he is still figuring out whether he should do this or that, whether he should hit or play cautiously, whether he will get dropped if he gets out while trying to hit," the former batter further asserted.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/it-gives-the-right-balance-former-indian-stumper-suggests-virat-kohlis-batting-slot-for-t20-world-cup-516425"><strong>'It gives the right balance' - Former Indian stumper suggests Virat Kohli's batting slot for T20 World Cup</strong></a></p>

<p>"He has done all of that, but this happens when you are young and extremely talented, and the expectation is that the guy will come and hit. So at times, he feels obliged that he has to hit but gets out while doing that. So it is a big problem," Chopra added.</p>

<p>Pant has led India in T20Is during the home series versus South Africa in early June. The series ended in a 2-2 stalemate. It will be interesting to see if he becomes the next T20I captain, succeeding Rohit.</p>


BCCI announced India's 15-man squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup 2022 edition, to be held in Australia from October-November. After a disappointing run in the Asia Cup, Rohit Sharma-led Men in Blue will be desperate to make amends and finalise their team combination in their remaining T20Is -- versus the Aussies and South Africa at home -- before the showpiece event Down Under.

BCCI announced India's 15-man squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup 2022 edition, to be held in Australia from October-November. After a disappointing run in the Asia Cup, Rohit Sharma-led Men in Blue will be desperate to make amends and finalise their team combination in their remaining T20Is -- versus the Aussies and South Africa at home -- before the showpiece event Down Under. India's squad includes several future leaders such as KL Rahul (current vice-captain), Hardik Pandya, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant, and Jasprit Bumrah. Former Indian opener-turned-commentator made a bold claim on his Youtube channel and feels that Pant, who doesn't have great numbers in T20Is, can be India's future captain in the format. Pant has so far amassed 934 runs in 58 matches, at 23.94 and a strike rate of over 126. He often invites criticism for his shot selection and not being consistent with the willow. With Dinesh Karthik's comeback, the youngster is also facing the heat to regularly feature in the T20I line-up due to the veteran's finishing skills. However, Chopra feels a bright future is ahead of Pant. ALSO READ | 'His strength and weakness is...' - Former Pakistan skipper decodes Rishabh Pant's batting in T20Is "I feel the future will be great. He might become the Indian captain in T20 cricket going forward. He will be that maverick people will be scared of. He will play in a bold fashion," an upbeat Chopra said. "But at this point in time, the truth is that he is still figuring out whether he should do this or that, whether he should hit or play cautiously, whether he will get dropped if he gets out while trying to hit," the former batter further asserted. ALSO READ | 'It gives the right balance' - Former Indian stumper suggests Virat Kohli's batting slot for T20 World Cup "He has done all of that, but this happens when you are young and extremely talented, and the expectation is that the guy will come and hit. So at times, he feels obliged that he has to hit but gets out while doing that. So it is a big problem," Chopra added. Pant has led India in T20Is during the home series versus South Africa in early June. The series ended in a 2-2 stalemate. It will be interesting to see if he becomes the next T20I captain, succeeding Rohit.

He might become India's T20I captain: Aakash Chopra's big prediction on star player

<p>The dreaded day finally arrived on Thursday (September 15) when 20-time Grand Slam winner&nbsp;Roger Federer&nbsp;announced his decision to retire from tennis after this month's Laver Cup.&nbsp;"As many of you know, the past three years have presented me with challenges in the form of injuries and surgeries. I've worked hard to return to full competitive form. But I also know my body's capacities and limits, and its message to me lately has been clear. I am 41 years old. I have played more than 1,500 matches over 24 years. Tennis has treated me more generously than I ever would have dreamt, and now I must recognise when it is time to end my competitive career," tweeted Federer.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="und">❤️ <a href="https://t.co/YxtVWrlXIF">pic.twitter.com/YxtVWrlXIF</a></p>
— Roger Federer (@rogerfederer) <a href="https://twitter.com/rogerfederer/status/1570402045085253632?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 15, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>Reactions have been pouring in from all corners ever since Federer dropped the bomb on Twitter last evening. The 41-year-old's arch-rival Rafael Nadal also joined in and shared a heartfelt note for the Swiss player who is set to make a farewell appearance in the forthcoming Laver Cup.</p>

<p>Over the years, Nadal and Federer have been up against each other in several humdingers. The two have been involved in some memorable rallies, joined in for an epic Instagram LIVE during Covid lockdown,&nbsp;lavished praises on one another irrespective of results after face-offs, and&nbsp;shown the world of sports how to carry a rivalry with the utmost respect.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Here's a throwback video of the Nadal-Federer camaraderie&nbsp;that the sports fanatics will surely miss:</strong></p>

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<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/naIXjVirI5U" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe></div>
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<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-will-miss-seeing-you-on-the-court-making-us-enjoy-lionel-messi-all-praise-for-genius-roger-federer-516747"><strong>We will miss seeing you on the court making us enjoy: Lionel Messi all praise for 'genius' Roger Federer</strong></a></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Dear Roger,my friend and rival.<br />
I wish this day would have never come. It’s a sad day for me personally and for sports around the world.<br />
It’s been a pleasure but also an honor and privilege to share all these years with you, living so many amazing moments on and off the court 👇🏻</p>
— Rafa Nadal (@RafaelNadal) <a href="https://twitter.com/RafaelNadal/status/1570442868057313285?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 15, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>On Federer's retirement announcement, Nadal poured his heart out and paid a fitting tribute. He tweeted, "Dear Roger,my friend and rival. I wish this day would have never come. It’s a sad day for me personally and for sports around the world. It’s been a pleasure but also an honor and privilege to share all these years with you, living so many amazing moments on and off the court.&nbsp;</p>

<p>We will have many more moments to share together in the future, there are still lots of things to do together, we know that.&nbsp; For now, I truly wish you all the happiness with your wife, Mirka, your kids, your family and enjoy what’s ahead of you. I’ll see you in London&nbsp;@LaverCup"</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Dear Roger,my friend and rival.<br />
I wish this day would have never come. It’s a sad day for me personally and for sports around the world.<br />
It’s been a pleasure but also an honor and privilege to share all these years with you, living so many amazing moments on and off the court 👇🏻</p>
— Rafa Nadal (@RafaelNadal) <a href="https://twitter.com/RafaelNadal/status/1570442868057313285?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 15, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>Federer, who last played a competitive match in Wimbledon 2021, will feature in the star-studded Laver Cup where Nadal, Novak Djokovic, and the likes will also take part. Fans will, thus, hope for a memorable sign-off&nbsp;to the epic Nadal-Federer camaraderie on the court.</p>


The dreaded day finally arrived on Thursday (September 15) when 20-time Grand Slam winner Roger Federer announced his decision to retire from tennis after this month's Laver Cup.

The dreaded day finally arrived on Thursday (September 15) when 20-time Grand Slam winner Roger Federer announced his decision to retire from tennis after this month's Laver Cup. "As many of you know, the past three years have presented me with challenges in the form of injuries and surgeries. I've worked hard to return to full competitive form. But I also know my body's capacities and limits, and its message to me lately has been clear. I am 41 years old. I have played more than 1,500 matches over 24 years. Tennis has treated me more generously than I ever would have dreamt, and now I must recognise when it is time to end my competitive career," tweeted Federer. ❤️ pic.twitter.com/YxtVWrlXIF — Roger Federer (@rogerfederer) September 15, 2022 × Reactions have been pouring in from all corners ever since Federer dropped the bomb on Twitter last evening. The 41-year-old's arch-rival Rafael Nadal also joined in and shared a heartfelt note for the Swiss player who is set to make a farewell appearance in the forthcoming Laver Cup. Over the years, Nadal and Federer have been up against each other in several humdingers. The two have been involved in some memorable rallies, joined in for an epic Instagram LIVE during Covid lockdown, lavished praises on one another irrespective of results after face-offs, and shown the world of sports how to carry a rivalry with the utmost respect. Here's a throwback video of the Nadal-Federer camaraderie that the sports fanatics will surely miss: × ALSO READ | We will miss seeing you on the court making us enjoy: Lionel Messi all praise for 'genius' Roger Federer Dear Roger,my friend and rival. I wish this day would have never come. It’s a sad day for me personally and for sports around the world. It’s been a pleasure but also an honor and privilege to share all these years with you, living so many amazing moments on and off the court 👇🏻 — Rafa Nadal (@RafaelNadal) September 15, 2022 × On Federer's retirement announcement, Nadal poured his heart out and paid a fitting tribute. He tweeted, "Dear Roger,my friend and rival. I wish this day would have never come. It’s a sad day for me personally and for sports around the world. It’s been a pleasure but also an honor and privilege to share all these years with you, living so many amazing moments on and off the court. We will have many more moments to share together in the future, there are still lots of things to do together, we know that. For now, I truly wish you all the happiness with your wife, Mirka, your kids, your family and enjoy what’s ahead of you. I’ll see you in London @LaverCup" Dear Roger,my friend and rival. I wish this day would have never come. It’s a sad day for me personally and for sports around the world. It’s been a pleasure but also an honor and privilege to share all these years with you, living so many amazing moments on and off the court 👇🏻 — Rafa Nadal (@RafaelNadal) September 15, 2022 × Federer, who last played a competitive match in Wimbledon 2021, will feature in the star-studded Laver Cup where Nadal, Novak Djokovic, and the likes will also take part. Fans will, thus, hope for a memorable sign-off to the epic Nadal-Federer camaraderie on the court.

Reliving arch-rivals Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal's epic camaraderie over the years - Video

<p>Rishabh Pant remains India's top-choice wicketkeeper-batter across formats. Ever since his amazing returns in the 2020/21 Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia, Pant's stocks have risen considerably and he is slowly coming to his own in ODIs as well. Nonetheless, his T20I numbers aren't extra ordinary as the swashbuckling left-hander has slammed&nbsp;934 runs in 58 matches, at an average of 23.94 and a strike rate of over 126.</p>

<p>Pant has played some vital knocks but his overall returns, so far, aren't that impressive. In his defence, he plays in a tricky position, in the middle and lower order, but many are still waiting for the 24-year-old to go big in the shortest format for Team India. He is part of Rohit Sharma-led Indias' 15-member main squad for the forthcoming T20 World Cup 2022 edition, in Australia, and will hope to go all-out with the bat for the one-time winners. Ahead of the marquee tournament, former Pakistan skipper Salman Butt opined on Pant's batting in T20Is.</p>

<p>Decoding Pant as a T20I batter, Butt answered a fan's query during his live session on YouTube and revealed, "His strength is too many shots. His downfall is too many shots. Too many shots, all at once."</p>

<p>"This is what makes him special, and this is the reason for his downfall as well. When he is successful, he looks spectacular. He has a good range, he is brave, and he has so many shots in his arsenal. But sometimes, you have to play calculative cricket," he opined.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-might-just-take-retirement-from-shortest-format-after-t20-world-cup-predicts-shoaib-akhtar-516340"><strong>Virat Kohli might just take retirement from shortest format after T20 World Cup, predicts Shoaib Akhtar</strong></a></p>

<p>"But he has much belief in his ability. He is so confident that he goes for his shot. If he fails, he receives criticism for his shot selection, and if he succeeds, people are in awe. So, I believe he has been given a free hand," Butt further asserted on the left-hander.</p>

<p>Recently, former Indian opener Wasim Jaffer shared an interesting suggestion for Rohit &amp; Co. ahead of the T20 WC. He tweeted saying, "I still think opening the inns is where we could see the best of Pant in T20. Provided Rohit is ok to bat @ 4. MS took a punt on Rohit before CT in 2013, and the rest is history. Time for Rohit to take a punt on Pant. KL, Pant, VK, Rohit, Sky would be my top five. #INDvAUS #T20WC."</p>

<p>Will India take the gamble and promote Pant as an opener in the upcoming World Cup Down Under? Only time will tell...</p>


Rishabh Pant remains India's top-choice wicketkeeper-batter across formats. Ever since his amazing returns in the 2020/21 Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia, Pant's stocks have risen considerably and he is slowly coming to his own in ODIs as well.

Rishabh Pant remains India's top-choice wicketkeeper-batter across formats. Ever since his amazing returns in the 2020/21 Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia, Pant's stocks have risen considerably and he is slowly coming to his own in ODIs as well. Nonetheless, his T20I numbers aren't extra ordinary as the swashbuckling left-hander has slammed 934 runs in 58 matches, at an average of 23.94 and a strike rate of over 126. Pant has played some vital knocks but his overall returns, so far, aren't that impressive. In his defence, he plays in a tricky position, in the middle and lower order, but many are still waiting for the 24-year-old to go big in the shortest format for Team India. He is part of Rohit Sharma-led Indias' 15-member main squad for the forthcoming T20 World Cup 2022 edition, in Australia, and will hope to go all-out with the bat for the one-time winners. Ahead of the marquee tournament, former Pakistan skipper Salman Butt opined on Pant's batting in T20Is. Decoding Pant as a T20I batter, Butt answered a fan's query during his live session on YouTube and revealed, "His strength is too many shots. His downfall is too many shots. Too many shots, all at once." "This is what makes him special, and this is the reason for his downfall as well. When he is successful, he looks spectacular. He has a good range, he is brave, and he has so many shots in his arsenal. But sometimes, you have to play calculative cricket," he opined. ALSO READ | Virat Kohli might just take retirement from shortest format after T20 World Cup, predicts Shoaib Akhtar "But he has much belief in his ability. He is so confident that he goes for his shot. If he fails, he receives criticism for his shot selection, and if he succeeds, people are in awe. So, I believe he has been given a free hand," Butt further asserted on the left-hander. Recently, former Indian opener Wasim Jaffer shared an interesting suggestion for Rohit & Co. ahead of the T20 WC. He tweeted saying, "I still think opening the inns is where we could see the best of Pant in T20. Provided Rohit is ok to bat @ 4. MS took a punt on Rohit before CT in 2013, and the rest is history. Time for Rohit to take a punt on Pant. KL, Pant, VK, Rohit, Sky would be my top five. #INDvAUS #T20WC." Will India take the gamble and promote Pant as an opener in the upcoming World Cup Down Under? Only time will tell...

'His strength and weakness is...' - Former Pakistan skipper decodes Rishabh Pant's batting in T20Is

<p>Cristiano&nbsp;Ronaldo&nbsp;scored for the first time this season as Manchester United got their Europa League campaign back on track with a 2-0 win at Sheriff Tiraspol on Thursday. Ronaldo&nbsp;had gone seven games without a goal before the United striker converted a first half penalty against the Moldovan champions. It was the 37-year-old's 699th club goal, but&nbsp;Ronaldo's low-key celebration was in keeping with the comfortable nature of United's third successive away victory. This was the kind of unglamourous fixture&nbsp;Ronaldo&nbsp;seemed desperate to avoid when he launched his unsuccessful bid to quit Old Trafford for a Champions League club in the summer.</p>

<p>But the Portugal star will be relieved to have got on the scoresheet, after Jadon Sancho put United ahead with a well-timed response on the day he was left out of the England squad.&nbsp;Ronaldo&nbsp;missed United's pre-season tour for "family reasons" and, while Ten Hag was pleased with his contribution against Sheriff, he says the forward needs more work to reach peak fitness.</p>

<p>"We could expect this when you miss pre-season so he has to work really hard and invest to get the right fitness, then he will score more goals," United boss Erik ten Hag said. "You can see he is really close and when he gets fitter he will finish them. I think he is totally committed to this project and to this team. He needed that goal. He was close many times. You see connections coming around him. We're happy for him and the team wanted him to bring the goal, so that's good."</p>

<p>United lost their opening Group E match 1-0 against Real Sociedad last Thursday. That gave Ten Hag's men no margin for error in Chisinau and they were up to the task against a Sheriff side who beat Real Madrid in the Champions League group stage last season.</p>

<p>United's first trip to the far-flung outpost of Moldova served as a painful reminder of their diminished status following last season's failure to qualify for the Champions League. But, showing respect for Sheriff, Ten Hag named a strong side and Sancho, one of five changes, struck with United's first meaningful attack in the 17th minute.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/antonio-conte-sends-a-stark-warning-to-tottenham-hotspur-players-following-sloppy-ucl-performance-516581"><strong>Antonio Conte sends a stark warning to Tottenham Hotspur players following sloppy UCL performance</strong></a></p>

<h4>- Sancho strikes -</h4>

<p>Taking Christian Eriksen's pass in his stride, Sancho cleverly switched direction inside the Sheriff area, giving himself room to plant a cool finish into the bottom corner from 12 yards. Ronaldo&nbsp;doubled United's lead in the 39th minute, easily stroking in his spot-kick after Diogo Dalot was brought down by Patrick Kpozo. United remain three points behind group leaders Real Sociedad, who won 2-1 against Omonia Nicosia.</p>

<p>Sociedad took the lead through Ander Guevara in the 30th minute and former Crystal Palace striker Alexander Sorloth bagged the 80th minute winner after Bruno equalised eight minutes earlier. Andrea Belotti scored his first Roma goal to cap their 3-0 win against 10-man HJK Helsinki at the Stadio Olimpico.</p>

<p>Jose Mourinho's side suffered a shock 2-1 loss against Ludogorets in their Group C opener, but they were always in control after HJK captain Miro Tenho was sent off in the 15th minute for a professional foul on Belotti. Paulo Dybala took just 69 seconds to break the deadlock after coming on at half-time as he fired home from the edge of the area.</p>

<p>Lorenzo Pellegrini chested in the second goal after 49 minutes, with former Torino forward Belotti tapping home in the 68th minute. In Group A, Bodo/Glimt beat FC Zurich 2-1 to take top spot with Arsenal's game against PSV Eindhoven postponed after the death of Queen Elizabeth II.</p>

<p>Surprise Bundesliga leaders Union Berlin slumped to a 1-0 defeat at Braga as Vitor Oliveira's 77th minute goal settled the Group D tie. In Group F, Midtjylland powered to a stunning 5-1 rout of Lazio, while Feyenoord's Iran winger Alireza Jahanbakhsh hit a hat-trick in their 6-0 demolition of Sturm Graz.</p>


Cristiano Ronaldo scored for the first time this season as Manchester United got their Europa League campaign back on track with a 2-0 win at Sheriff Tiraspol on Thursday.

Cristiano Ronaldo scored for the first time this season as Manchester United got their Europa League campaign back on track with a 2-0 win at Sheriff Tiraspol on Thursday. Ronaldo had gone seven games without a goal before the United striker converted a first half penalty against the Moldovan champions. It was the 37-year-old's 699th club goal, but Ronaldo's low-key celebration was in keeping with the comfortable nature of United's third successive away victory. This was the kind of unglamourous fixture Ronaldo seemed desperate to avoid when he launched his unsuccessful bid to quit Old Trafford for a Champions League club in the summer. But the Portugal star will be relieved to have got on the scoresheet, after Jadon Sancho put United ahead with a well-timed response on the day he was left out of the England squad. Ronaldo missed United's pre-season tour for "family reasons" and, while Ten Hag was pleased with his contribution against Sheriff, he says the forward needs more work to reach peak fitness. "We could expect this when you miss pre-season so he has to work really hard and invest to get the right fitness, then he will score more goals," United boss Erik ten Hag said. "You can see he is really close and when he gets fitter he will finish them. I think he is totally committed to this project and to this team. He needed that goal. He was close many times. You see connections coming around him. We're happy for him and the team wanted him to bring the goal, so that's good." United lost their opening Group E match 1-0 against Real Sociedad last Thursday. That gave Ten Hag's men no margin for error in Chisinau and they were up to the task against a Sheriff side who beat Real Madrid in the Champions League group stage last season. United's first trip to the far-flung outpost of Moldova served as a painful reminder of their diminished status following last season's failure to qualify for the Champions League. But, showing respect for Sheriff, Ten Hag named a strong side and Sancho, one of five changes, struck with United's first meaningful attack in the 17th minute. ALSO READ | Antonio Conte sends a stark warning to Tottenham Hotspur players following sloppy UCL performance - Sancho strikes - Taking Christian Eriksen's pass in his stride, Sancho cleverly switched direction inside the Sheriff area, giving himself room to plant a cool finish into the bottom corner from 12 yards. Ronaldo doubled United's lead in the 39th minute, easily stroking in his spot-kick after Diogo Dalot was brought down by Patrick Kpozo. United remain three points behind group leaders Real Sociedad, who won 2-1 against Omonia Nicosia. Sociedad took the lead through Ander Guevara in the 30th minute and former Crystal Palace striker Alexander Sorloth bagged the 80th minute winner after Bruno equalised eight minutes earlier. Andrea Belotti scored his first Roma goal to cap their 3-0 win against 10-man HJK Helsinki at the Stadio Olimpico. Jose Mourinho's side suffered a shock 2-1 loss against Ludogorets in their Group C opener, but they were always in control after HJK captain Miro Tenho was sent off in the 15th minute for a professional foul on Belotti. Paulo Dybala took just 69 seconds to break the deadlock after coming on at half-time as he fired home from the edge of the area. Lorenzo Pellegrini chested in the second goal after 49 minutes, with former Torino forward Belotti tapping home in the 68th minute. In Group A, Bodo/Glimt beat FC Zurich 2-1 to take top spot with Arsenal's game against PSV Eindhoven postponed after the death of Queen Elizabeth II. Surprise Bundesliga leaders Union Berlin slumped to a 1-0 defeat at Braga as Vitor Oliveira's 77th minute goal settled the Group D tie. In Group F, Midtjylland powered to a stunning 5-1 rout of Lazio, while Feyenoord's Iran winger Alireza Jahanbakhsh hit a hat-trick in their 6-0 demolition of Sturm Graz.

Ronaldo scores maiden Europa League goal as Manchester United beat Sheriff Tiraspol 2-0

<p>Former International Cricket Council (ICC) elite panel umpire from Pakistan, Asad Rauf passed away following a cardiac arrest in Lahore. Rauf was 66. Rauf officiated in 64 Tests -49 as on-field, 15 as the third umpire- 139 ODIs (98 as on-field, 41 as the third umpire) and 28 T20Is (23 as on-field, 5 as the third umpire). He was one of the finest umpires of his time. He joined the ICC elite panel in 2006 a year after officiating his first Test. Along with Aleem Dar, he was a well-liked personality on the circuit who contributed to enhancing the standing of Pakistani umpires prior to the neutral umpire era.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tainted-umpire-asad-rauf-who-now-owns-two-shops-in-lahore-claims-of-not-following-cricket-since-2013-491262"><strong>Tainted umpire Asad Rauf, who now owns two shops in Lahore, claims of not following cricket since 2013</strong></a></p>

<p>Rauf played for National Bank and Railways during his lengthy first-class career as a middle-order hitter, averaging 28.76 from 71 first-class games.Pakistani wicket keeper-batter Kamran Akmal took to Twitter to convey his condolences. "Sad to know about the news of former ICC umpire Asad Rauf`s demise," he wrote on his Twitter handle. Rauf`s career was ruined by charges of spot-fixing and match-fixing in cricket matches, and in February 2016 he received a five-year suspension after being found guilty of corruption.&nbsp;</p>


Former International Cricket Council (ICC) elite panel umpire from Pakistan, Asad Rauf passed away following a cardiac arrest in Lahore. Rauf was 66. Rauf officiated in 64 Tests -49 as on-field, 15 as the third umpire- 139 ODIs (98 as on-field, 41 as the third umpire) and 28 T20Is (23 as on-field, 5 as the third umpire).

Former International Cricket Council (ICC) elite panel umpire from Pakistan, Asad Rauf passed away following a cardiac arrest in Lahore. Rauf was 66. Rauf officiated in 64 Tests -49 as on-field, 15 as the third umpire- 139 ODIs (98 as on-field, 41 as the third umpire) and 28 T20Is (23 as on-field, 5 as the third umpire). He was one of the finest umpires of his time. He joined the ICC elite panel in 2006 a year after officiating his first Test. Along with Aleem Dar, he was a well-liked personality on the circuit who contributed to enhancing the standing of Pakistani umpires prior to the neutral umpire era. ALSO READ | Tainted umpire Asad Rauf, who now owns two shops in Lahore, claims of not following cricket since 2013 Rauf played for National Bank and Railways during his lengthy first-class career as a middle-order hitter, averaging 28.76 from 71 first-class games.Pakistani wicket keeper-batter Kamran Akmal took to Twitter to convey his condolences. "Sad to know about the news of former ICC umpire Asad Rauf`s demise," he wrote on his Twitter handle. Rauf`s career was ruined by charges of spot-fixing and match-fixing in cricket matches, and in February 2016 he received a five-year suspension after being found guilty of corruption.

Former umpire Asad Rauf passes away following a cardiac arrest aged 66

<p>Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappe and Neymar all scored as Paris Saint-Germain came from a goal down to win 3-1 at Maccabi Haifa on Wednesday and make it two wins from two in the Champions League group stage. After 24 minutes, Tjaronn Chery`s incredible volley gave Maccabi Haifa the lead, much to the pleasure of a crowded Sammy Ofer Stadium. The Parisians immediately sensed the fervour of the home audience, which had been waiting for the return of the Champions League for more than 12 years, in the beautiful atmosphere and a green-clad Sammy Ofer Stadium.</p>

<p>The first half was quite stressful, forcing the Rouge et Bleu back into defence. The roles were turned in the second half when Mbappe scored his 30th Champions League goal for the club, tying Edinson Cavani`s record. However, Mbappe`s speed assisted Lionel Messi in scoring an equaliser. It was sealed late by Neymar. Leo Messi twice came near to scoring before Mbappe managed to repay the favour as the pressure mounted (at 60 and 63 seconds). The No. 7 skillfully sidefooted the ball into the far right corner of the goal (1-2, 69`). As a result, he shared the club`s Champions League scoring lead with other players (30). A noteworthy event in history.To the very end. On a final attack, Neymar`s clinical strike took his side to a victory (1-3, 88`).</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-manchester-citys-erling-haaland-hurts-dortmund-with-brilliant-late-strike-516324">Champions League: Manchester City's Erling Haaland hurts Dortmund with brilliant late strike</a></strong></p>

<p>Messi is the first player to score in 18 successive Champions League seasons, moving ahead of Karim Benzema (17)."We have to improve. We have to work," Mbappe told uefa.com. "We are working, but we need the results to show in our play because things are going to come around quickly with the (international) break and the World Cup," he added."The fact that the three of us can make the difference in a game is an advantage for us. I hope that all three of us keep scoring as it means that we`ll win matches," Mbappe said.</p>


Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappe and Neymar all scored as Paris Saint-Germain came from a goal down to win 3-1 at Maccabi Haifa on Wednesday and make it two wins from two in the Champions League group stage.

Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappe and Neymar all scored as Paris Saint-Germain came from a goal down to win 3-1 at Maccabi Haifa on Wednesday and make it two wins from two in the Champions League group stage. After 24 minutes, Tjaronn Chery`s incredible volley gave Maccabi Haifa the lead, much to the pleasure of a crowded Sammy Ofer Stadium. The Parisians immediately sensed the fervour of the home audience, which had been waiting for the return of the Champions League for more than 12 years, in the beautiful atmosphere and a green-clad Sammy Ofer Stadium. The first half was quite stressful, forcing the Rouge et Bleu back into defence. The roles were turned in the second half when Mbappe scored his 30th Champions League goal for the club, tying Edinson Cavani`s record. However, Mbappe`s speed assisted Lionel Messi in scoring an equaliser. It was sealed late by Neymar. Leo Messi twice came near to scoring before Mbappe managed to repay the favour as the pressure mounted (at 60 and 63 seconds). The No. 7 skillfully sidefooted the ball into the far right corner of the goal (1-2, 69`). As a result, he shared the club`s Champions League scoring lead with other players (30). A noteworthy event in history.To the very end. On a final attack, Neymar`s clinical strike took his side to a victory (1-3, 88`). ALSO READ | Champions League: Manchester City's Erling Haaland hurts Dortmund with brilliant late strike Messi is the first player to score in 18 successive Champions League seasons, moving ahead of Karim Benzema (17)."We have to improve. We have to work," Mbappe told uefa.com. "We are working, but we need the results to show in our play because things are going to come around quickly with the (international) break and the World Cup," he added."The fact that the three of us can make the difference in a game is an advantage for us. I hope that all three of us keep scoring as it means that we`ll win matches," Mbappe said.

UEFA Champions League: Messi, Mbappe and Neymar lead charge in PSG's 3-1 win over Maccabi Haifa

<p>Virat Kohli returned to international cricket in the Asia Cup 2022 edition, post the England tour, and announced his comeback in style. He ended the tournament with 276 runs -- second-most overall -- including two half-centuries and a hundred. Thus, the 33-year-old ended his international century drought, since late 2019, by finally reaching his 71st ton at the highest level.</p>

<p>With Kohli returning to form, the Rohit Sharma-led Indian team management will breathe a sigh of relief despite their dismal run at the Asia Cup, eventually won by Sri Lanka. Going ahead into the T20 World Cup, to be held in Australia from October-November, the Indian star batter will now look to carry on in similar stead in the home series versus Australia and South Africa and go big in the forthcoming mega&nbsp;event Down Under. Prior to the T20 WC, where India will look to end their ICC-title drought, Pakistan's former pacer Shoaib Akhtar has made a bold prediction.</p>

<p>"Kohli might just take retirement after the T20 World Cup. He may do that to extend his longevity in the other formats. If I was him, I would have looked at the larger picture and taken a call," Akhtar said in a LIVE session hosted by<em>&nbsp;India.com.</em></p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/shouldnt-reach-stage-where-shahid-afridis-advice-for-virat-kohli-on-international-retirement-515768">'Shouldn't reach stage where....': Shahid Afridi's advice for Virat Kohli on international retirement</a></strong></p>

<p>Seeing Kohli's blitz in the continental tournament, held in the UAE, Shahid Afridi recently gave retirement advice to the former Indian captain. "The way Virat has played, the start that he had to his career, there was a struggle initially before he made a name for himself. He is a champion and I believe there comes a stage when you are headed towards retirement. But in that scenario, the aim should be to go out on a high," Afridi told Samaa TV.</p>

<p>"It shouldn't reach a stage where you are dropped from the team and instead when you are at your peak. It seldom happens though. Very few players, especially cricketers from Asia Cup make that decision, but I feel when Virat does it, he will do it style and probably in the same manner in which he started his career," the former Pakistan captain and all-rounder concluded.</p>

<p>Seeing Kohli's fitness, it is highly unlikely that he will retire post the T20 WC. But given India have plenty of young batters waiting in the wings, he might just sideline himself from the format with the ODI World Cup to be played in India in late 2023.</p>


Virat Kohli returned to international cricket in the Asia Cup 2022 edition, post the England tour, and announced his comeback in style. He ended the tournament with 276 runs -- second-most overall -- including two half-centuries and a hundred.

Virat Kohli returned to international cricket in the Asia Cup 2022 edition, post the England tour, and announced his comeback in style. He ended the tournament with 276 runs -- second-most overall -- including two half-centuries and a hundred. Thus, the 33-year-old ended his international century drought, since late 2019, by finally reaching his 71st ton at the highest level. With Kohli returning to form, the Rohit Sharma-led Indian team management will breathe a sigh of relief despite their dismal run at the Asia Cup, eventually won by Sri Lanka. Going ahead into the T20 World Cup, to be held in Australia from October-November, the Indian star batter will now look to carry on in similar stead in the home series versus Australia and South Africa and go big in the forthcoming mega event Down Under. Prior to the T20 WC, where India will look to end their ICC-title drought, Pakistan's former pacer Shoaib Akhtar has made a bold prediction. "Kohli might just take retirement after the T20 World Cup. He may do that to extend his longevity in the other formats. If I was him, I would have looked at the larger picture and taken a call," Akhtar said in a LIVE session hosted by India.com. ALSO READ | 'Shouldn't reach stage where....': Shahid Afridi's advice for Virat Kohli on international retirement Seeing Kohli's blitz in the continental tournament, held in the UAE, Shahid Afridi recently gave retirement advice to the former Indian captain. "The way Virat has played, the start that he had to his career, there was a struggle initially before he made a name for himself. He is a champion and I believe there comes a stage when you are headed towards retirement. But in that scenario, the aim should be to go out on a high," Afridi told Samaa TV. "It shouldn't reach a stage where you are dropped from the team and instead when you are at your peak. It seldom happens though. Very few players, especially cricketers from Asia Cup make that decision, but I feel when Virat does it, he will do it style and probably in the same manner in which he started his career," the former Pakistan captain and all-rounder concluded. Seeing Kohli's fitness, it is highly unlikely that he will retire post the T20 WC. But given India have plenty of young batters waiting in the wings, he might just sideline himself from the format with the ODI World Cup to be played in India in late 2023.

Virat Kohli might just take retirement from shortest format after T20 World Cup, predicts Shoaib Akhtar

<p>In a major development, the Supreme Court allowed the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to amend its constitution, allowing both Sourav Ganguly and Jay Shah to continue as the President and Secretary, respectively. The former Indian captain took over as the BCCI chief in late 2019 along with Shah and are now set to extend their respective roles.&nbsp;</p>

<p>SC stated that the cooling-off period for office bearers will commence after two successive&nbsp;terms at either the BCCI or at the state association level. Thus, the office bearers can now have a maximum of 12 years at a stretch. This primarily means that they can have two three-year terms at the state association level and two three-year terms at the BCCI following which&nbsp;the cooling-off period will be applicable to them.</p>

<p>As per a report in the Indian Express, Shah is now the frontrunner to succeed Ganguly as the BCCI President. He has as many as 15 state associations backing him for the top post as they credit him for IPL being conducted in the Covid-era.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sourav-ganguly-jay-shah-set-for-extension-as-sc-accepts-bccis-proposal-to-amend-cooling-off-period-516134"><strong>Sourav Ganguly, Jay Shah to continue on BCCI top posts as SC amends cooling-off provision</strong></a></p>

<p>“It’s high time Shah takes charge of the Indian board, and all associations are ready to back him,” a key member of a state association stated.&nbsp;Moreover, as per a report in NDTV, Ganguly is gearing up to contest for the ICC Chairman's post with&nbsp;the tenure of Greg Barkley coming to an end later this year.&nbsp;</p>

<p>If Ganguly -- who led India to the 2003 ODI World Cup final in South Africa -- wins and claims the top post, he will become only the fifth Indian to do so. So far, the likes of&nbsp;Shashank Manohar, N Srinivasan, Jagmohan Dalmiya and Sharad Pawar have served as ICC Chairman. If the Bengal Tiger gets the post, he will add another feather to his illustrious career.</p>


In a major development, the Supreme Court allowed the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to amend its constitution, allowing both Sourav Ganguly and Jay Shah to continue as the President and Secretary, respectively.

In a major development, the Supreme Court allowed the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to amend its constitution, allowing both Sourav Ganguly and Jay Shah to continue as the President and Secretary, respectively. The former Indian captain took over as the BCCI chief in late 2019 along with Shah and are now set to extend their respective roles. SC stated that the cooling-off period for office bearers will commence after two successive terms at either the BCCI or at the state association level. Thus, the office bearers can now have a maximum of 12 years at a stretch. This primarily means that they can have two three-year terms at the state association level and two three-year terms at the BCCI following which the cooling-off period will be applicable to them. As per a report in the Indian Express, Shah is now the frontrunner to succeed Ganguly as the BCCI President. He has as many as 15 state associations backing him for the top post as they credit him for IPL being conducted in the Covid-era. ALSO READ | Sourav Ganguly, Jay Shah to continue on BCCI top posts as SC amends cooling-off provision “It’s high time Shah takes charge of the Indian board, and all associations are ready to back him,” a key member of a state association stated. Moreover, as per a report in NDTV, Ganguly is gearing up to contest for the ICC Chairman's post with the tenure of Greg Barkley coming to an end later this year. If Ganguly -- who led India to the 2003 ODI World Cup final in South Africa -- wins and claims the top post, he will become only the fifth Indian to do so. So far, the likes of Shashank Manohar, N Srinivasan, Jagmohan Dalmiya and Sharad Pawar have served as ICC Chairman. If the Bengal Tiger gets the post, he will add another feather to his illustrious career.

Jay Shah likely to take over as BCCI chief, Sourav Ganguly to compete for ICC Chairman's post: Reports

<p>Babar Azam has done well as Pakistan's captain across formats. Under him, Babar-led Men in Green reached the semi-finals of the 2021 T20 World Cup and the Asia Cup final. However, a big title still eludes skipper Babar. He will be hoping to turn things for his national side by taking them to the coveted title in the forthcoming 2022 T20 WC, to be held in Australia from October-November.</p>

<p>After Pakistan's Asia Cup final loss to Sri Lanka by 23 runs, in Dubai, many slammed Babar for not using his bowlers smartly in the summit clash. His own failures with the bat -- where he amassed only 68 runs in five outings in the continental tournament -- hasn't helped his cause. Now, veteran keeper-batter Kamran Akmal has revealed that he had advised Babar to not take up Pakistan captaincy.</p>

<p>Akmal revealed on a YouTube show, as quoted by Hindustan times,&nbsp;"During a T20I in Faisalabad when Babar was walking out for the toss, I got to know that he is being made captain. That is when I told him... 'I don't think now is the right time for you to become captain. Give your best performances in the next 2-3 years. The batting line-up is depended on you. Reach Virat Kohli's level first, Steve Smith's level. By then, you would have scored 35-40 centuries and enjoy captaincy. The moment Sarfaraz leaves, you will be next in line. But now is the right time. I told him back in the day but it was his decision. Those who were close to him, must have spoken to him and advised him to take up captaincy."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/where-is-your-nationalism-javed-miandad-tears-apart-pcb-after-pakistans-asia-cup-final-loss-516430">'Where is your nationalism?' - Javed Miandad tears apart PCB after Pakistan's Asia Cup final loss</a></strong></p>

<p>Babar was appointed as Pakistan's T20I&nbsp;in late 2019 before being given the post in ODIs early next year. Later in the same year, he was promoted as the full-time captain.&nbsp;Kamran, however, added that he believes that Pakistan cricket will move backwards if they remove Babar from the captaincy post.</p>

<p>"I had also told him to only concentrate on his batting. He was scoring runs and would have continued to do so. The flow was beautiful. People enjoyed watching him bat. With captaincy, there will be pressure, which will affect his batting, his approach. And somewhere, that is visible now. But at the same time removing him as captain right now would be a big blunder on the part of the team management. Pakistan cricket will go back," added the veteran.</p>


Babar Azam has done well as Pakistan's captain across formats. Under him, Babar-led Men in Green reached the semi-finals of the 2021 T20 World Cup and the Asia Cup final.

Babar Azam has done well as Pakistan's captain across formats. Under him, Babar-led Men in Green reached the semi-finals of the 2021 T20 World Cup and the Asia Cup final. However, a big title still eludes skipper Babar. He will be hoping to turn things for his national side by taking them to the coveted title in the forthcoming 2022 T20 WC, to be held in Australia from October-November. After Pakistan's Asia Cup final loss to Sri Lanka by 23 runs, in Dubai, many slammed Babar for not using his bowlers smartly in the summit clash. His own failures with the bat -- where he amassed only 68 runs in five outings in the continental tournament -- hasn't helped his cause. Now, veteran keeper-batter Kamran Akmal has revealed that he had advised Babar to not take up Pakistan captaincy. Akmal revealed on a YouTube show, as quoted by Hindustan times, "During a T20I in Faisalabad when Babar was walking out for the toss, I got to know that he is being made captain. That is when I told him... 'I don't think now is the right time for you to become captain. Give your best performances in the next 2-3 years. The batting line-up is depended on you. Reach Virat Kohli's level first, Steve Smith's level. By then, you would have scored 35-40 centuries and enjoy captaincy. The moment Sarfaraz leaves, you will be next in line. But now is the right time. I told him back in the day but it was his decision. Those who were close to him, must have spoken to him and advised him to take up captaincy." ALSO READ | 'Where is your nationalism?' - Javed Miandad tears apart PCB after Pakistan's Asia Cup final loss Babar was appointed as Pakistan's T20I in late 2019 before being given the post in ODIs early next year. Later in the same year, he was promoted as the full-time captain. Kamran, however, added that he believes that Pakistan cricket will move backwards if they remove Babar from the captaincy post. "I had also told him to only concentrate on his batting. He was scoring runs and would have continued to do so. The flow was beautiful. People enjoyed watching him bat. With captaincy, there will be pressure, which will affect his batting, his approach. And somewhere, that is visible now. But at the same time removing him as captain right now would be a big blunder on the part of the team management. Pakistan cricket will go back," added the veteran.

'Reach Virat Kohli's level first' - Kamran Akmal recalls advising Babar Azam to not take up Pakistan captaincy

<p>Pakistan locked horns with Sri Lanka in the Asia Cup 2022 edition's final on September 11 at the iconic Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai. Opting to bowl first, Babar Azam &amp; Co. had restricted the Lankans to 58 for 5 before Bhanuka Rajapaksa's 71 and Wanindu Hasaranga's 21-ball 36 propelled their side to a competitive 170 for 6 in 20 overs. In reply, the Men in Green never got going in their run-chase and were dismissed for 147 in their full quota of overs with Pramod Madushan and spin-bowling all-rounder Hasaranga sharing seven scalps in between.</p>

<p>After Pakistan's disappointing loss in the summit clash, which led Dasun Shanaka &amp; Co. to win their sixth Asia Cup title, legendary cricketer Javed Miandad has ripped apart the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) for not using his services, along with many other national heroes.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"People like me are literally sitting here. Personally, I don't want anything but use us! I have always kept Pakistan first. You have people here. We don't want money. I'm sure the players will benefit from my presence. I come with a lot of experience. The way they lost, it hurts,” Miandad told&nbsp;<i>Cricket Pakistan</i>.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-might-just-take-retirement-from-shortest-format-after-t20-world-cup-predicts-shoaib-akhtar-516340"><strong>Virat Kohli might just take retirement from shortest format after T20 World Cup, predicts Shoaib Akhtar</strong></a></p>

<p>“It's actually shameful. You have so many people here, where is your nationalism? What Pakistan are you talking about?” Miandad further pointed out. "If I were there, I would have told them to keep wickets in hand and accelerate at the right time. I have experience. But these kids don't know, they just go out there and start hitting. They don't know which bowler to hit, what's the problem and when to stay at the wicket,” said the 1992 World Cup-winning member, who represented the national side in 124 Tests and 233 ODIs.</p>

<p>Pakistan have few more games to play before heading to Australia for the 2022 T20 World Cup. In the last year's edition, held in the UAE, Babar-led Pakistan had lost to eventual winners Australia in the semi-finals.</p>


Pakistan locked horns with Sri Lanka in the Asia Cup 2022 edition's final on September 11 at the iconic Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai. Opting to bowl first, Babar Azam & Co.

Pakistan locked horns with Sri Lanka in the Asia Cup 2022 edition's final on September 11 at the iconic Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai. Opting to bowl first, Babar Azam & Co. had restricted the Lankans to 58 for 5 before Bhanuka Rajapaksa's 71 and Wanindu Hasaranga's 21-ball 36 propelled their side to a competitive 170 for 6 in 20 overs. In reply, the Men in Green never got going in their run-chase and were dismissed for 147 in their full quota of overs with Pramod Madushan and spin-bowling all-rounder Hasaranga sharing seven scalps in between. After Pakistan's disappointing loss in the summit clash, which led Dasun Shanaka & Co. to win their sixth Asia Cup title, legendary cricketer Javed Miandad has ripped apart the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) for not using his services, along with many other national heroes. "People like me are literally sitting here. Personally, I don't want anything but use us! I have always kept Pakistan first. You have people here. We don't want money. I'm sure the players will benefit from my presence. I come with a lot of experience. The way they lost, it hurts,” Miandad told Cricket Pakistan. ALSO READ | Virat Kohli might just take retirement from shortest format after T20 World Cup, predicts Shoaib Akhtar “It's actually shameful. You have so many people here, where is your nationalism? What Pakistan are you talking about?” Miandad further pointed out. "If I were there, I would have told them to keep wickets in hand and accelerate at the right time. I have experience. But these kids don't know, they just go out there and start hitting. They don't know which bowler to hit, what's the problem and when to stay at the wicket,” said the 1992 World Cup-winning member, who represented the national side in 124 Tests and 233 ODIs. Pakistan have few more games to play before heading to Australia for the 2022 T20 World Cup. In the last year's edition, held in the UAE, Babar-led Pakistan had lost to eventual winners Australia in the semi-finals.

'Where is your nationalism?' - Javed Miandad tears apart PCB after Pakistan's Asia Cup final loss

<p>Team India is now gearing up for the T20 World Cup 2022 edition, set to be held in Australia from October-November. The main squad, comprising 15 players, were announced on Monday evening (September 16) and the ardent Indian cricket fans are backing Rohit Sharma-led India to return with the trophy this time around.</p>

<p>India haven't won an ICC title since 2013 and in the last edition of the T20 WC, held last year in the UAE, saw the Virat Kohli-led Men in Blue bow out of the marquee tournament in the Super 12 round. India's main concern has been the struggle to finalise a settled XI, causing their downfall in recent multi-nation tournaments (including the Asia Cup). However, Little Master Sunil Gavaskar has backed India to win the trophy if luck favours them.</p>

<p>"I believe that this team, with a bit of luck that every team needs, can bring home the trophy," Gavaskar told The Indian Express. "Once the team is selected, then it’s our India team and we all have to back it. We shouldn’t question selections and omissions as it can demoralise some of the players," the batting great added.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-might-just-take-retirement-from-shortest-format-after-t20-world-cup-predicts-shoaib-akhtar-516340"><strong>Virat Kohli might just take retirement from shortest format after T20 World Cup, predicts Shoaib Akhtar</strong></a></p>

<p>India, after a dismal Asia Cup campaign, will now host Australia and South Africa in white-ball assignments at home before boarding the flight to Australia. Thus, they will use their remaining T20I fixtures to find a balanced XI and then go all-out in the showpiece event Down Under. They are placed in Pool B with Pakistan, Bangladesh and South Africa with two more teams joining from the qualifiers.</p>

<p><strong>India's final 15-man squad for T20 World Cup 2022:</strong></p>

<p>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</p>

<p><strong>Standby players -</strong>&nbsp;Mohammed&nbsp;Shami, Shreyas Iyer, Ravi Bishnoi, Deepak Chahar</p>


Team India is now gearing up for the T20 World Cup 2022 edition, set to be held in Australia from October-November. The main squad, comprising 15 players, were announced on Monday evening (September 16) and the ardent Indian cricket fans are backing Rohit Sharma-led India to return with the trophy this time around.

Team India is now gearing up for the T20 World Cup 2022 edition, set to be held in Australia from October-November. The main squad, comprising 15 players, were announced on Monday evening (September 16) and the ardent Indian cricket fans are backing Rohit Sharma-led India to return with the trophy this time around. India haven't won an ICC title since 2013 and in the last edition of the T20 WC, held last year in the UAE, saw the Virat Kohli-led Men in Blue bow out of the marquee tournament in the Super 12 round. India's main concern has been the struggle to finalise a settled XI, causing their downfall in recent multi-nation tournaments (including the Asia Cup). However, Little Master Sunil Gavaskar has backed India to win the trophy if luck favours them. "I believe that this team, with a bit of luck that every team needs, can bring home the trophy," Gavaskar told The Indian Express. "Once the team is selected, then it’s our India team and we all have to back it. We shouldn’t question selections and omissions as it can demoralise some of the players," the batting great added. ALSO READ | Virat Kohli might just take retirement from shortest format after T20 World Cup, predicts Shoaib Akhtar India, after a dismal Asia Cup campaign, will now host Australia and South Africa in white-ball assignments at home before boarding the flight to Australia. Thus, they will use their remaining T20I fixtures to find a balanced XI and then go all-out in the showpiece event Down Under. They are placed in Pool B with Pakistan, Bangladesh and South Africa with two more teams joining from the qualifiers. 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

'With bit of...' - Sunil Gavaskar mentions the factor which can help India win T20 World Cup

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