Just a few days are left for the India-Pakistan clash in the forthcoming Asia Cup 2022 edition. The tournament will kick off on August 27&nbsp;in the UAE&nbsp;with Afghanistan taking on Sri Lanka but the most-awaited clash is when the two Asian giants India and Pakistan lock horns a day later at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium.&nbsp;

Ahead of the India-Pakistan face-off, the first since the 2021 T20 World Cup, Indian captain Rohit Sharma played down the hype on the contest. 
 
Speaking to the tournament's broadcaster Star Sports, Sharma said, "Everyone watches the game and it's a high-pressure game without a doubt, but within the group we want to create a normal atmosphere." 
 
"We don't want to hype this game too much. It's important to tell the players who haven't played against Pakistan or played them just one or two times that it's just another opposition," he told Star Sports.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-is-not-out-of-form-the-issue-is-rashid-khan-shares-his-take-on-virat-kohlis-form-ahead-of-asia-cup-510038">'He is not out of form, the issue is...' - Rashid Khan shares his take on Virat Kohli's form ahead of Asia Cup</a>

India will be eager to settle scores with Pakistan after their dismal performance in last year's clash during the 2021 T20 WC. Back then, Shaheen Afridi's 3/31&nbsp;had rocked India's top-order as they only managed 151/7, riding on then skipper Virat Kohli's 57, before openers Babar-Md Rizwan's unbeaten half-centuries propelled Pakistan to their maiden World Cup win over their neighbouring country.

Will the script remain the same for India, under Rohit? Or, will Men in Blue return to winning ways versus Pakistan? Only time will tell...

Just a few days are left for the India-Pakistan clash in the forthcoming Asia Cup 2022 edition. The tournament will kick off on August 27 in the UAE with Afghanistan taking on Sri Lanka but the most-awaited clash is when the two Asian giants India and Pakistan lock horns a day later at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium.

Just a few days are left for the India-Pakistan clash in the forthcoming Asia Cup 2022 edition. The tournament will kick off on August 27 in the UAE with Afghanistan taking on Sri Lanka but the most-awaited clash is when the two Asian giants India and Pakistan lock horns a day later at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. Ahead of the India-Pakistan face-off, the first since the 2021 T20 World Cup, Indian captain Rohit Sharma played down the hype on the contest. Speaking to the tournament's broadcaster Star Sports, Sharma said, "Everyone watches the game and it's a high-pressure game without a doubt, but within the group we want to create a normal atmosphere." "We don't want to hype this game too much. It's important to tell the players who haven't played against Pakistan or played them just one or two times that it's just another opposition," he told Star Sports. ALSO READ | 'He is not out of form, the issue is...' - Rashid Khan shares his take on Virat Kohli's form ahead of Asia Cup India will be eager to settle scores with Pakistan after their dismal performance in last year's clash during the 2021 T20 WC. Back then, Shaheen Afridi's 3/31 had rocked India's top-order as they only managed 151/7, riding on then skipper Virat Kohli's 57, before openers Babar-Md Rizwan's unbeaten half-centuries propelled Pakistan to their maiden World Cup win over their neighbouring country. Will the script remain the same for India, under Rohit? Or, will Men in Blue return to winning ways versus Pakistan? Only time will tell...

'It's just another opposition' - Rohit Sharma downplays hype around India-Pakistan face-off in Asia Cup

Pakistan were dealt a huge blow when Shaheen Afridi injured himself during the first Test versus Sri Lanka last month. The left-arm pacer suffered a knee injury and, hence, has been ruled out of the forthcoming Asia Cup 2022 edition, set to get underway on August 27&nbsp;in the UAE.

However, an injured Shaheen has travelled to the UAE for the Asian championship with the Babar Azam-led squad. Recently, Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) spokesperson opened up in this regard and revealed the reason behind the 22-year-old's presence in the Pakistan squad.

"Babar wanted him to stay with the team. Management wants to closely monitor his injury rehab. He will be staying in Dubai itself with the team," PCB spokesperson confirmed to the local media in Pakistan.

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Pakistan and Afghanistan players exchange greetings in Dubai ahead of the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AsiaCup2022?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AsiaCup2022</a> 🇵🇰🇦🇫<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BackTheBoysInGreen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BackTheBoysInGreen</a> <a href="https://t.co/qd3wwceNq1">pic.twitter.com/qd3wwceNq1</a>
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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/its-just-another-opposition-rohit-sharma-downplays-hype-around-india-pakistan-face-off-in-asia-cup-510061">'It's just another opposition' - Rohit Sharma downplays hype around India-Pakistan face-off in Asia Cup</a>

Shaheen won't be taking part in the Asia Cup as he has been ruled out, however, his presence will be handy for Team Pakistan as the two-time winners will hope to win the mega title ahead of the T20 World Cup&nbsp;scheduled in October-November in Australia.&nbsp;

Pakistan will open their campaign versus arch-rivals India&nbsp;on August 28 in Dubai. This will be the first-ever face-off between the two sides following their clash in the 2021 T20 World Cup, where Shaheen's 3/31 helped the Men in Green score their&nbsp;maiden World Cup win over India. Back then, Babar &amp; Co. defeated India by 10 wickets.

Pakistan were dealt a huge blow when Shaheen Afridi injured himself during the first Test versus Sri Lanka last month. The left-arm pacer suffered a knee injury and, hence, has been ruled out of the forthcoming Asia Cup 2022 edition, set to get underway on August 27 in the UAE.

Pakistan were dealt a huge blow when Shaheen Afridi injured himself during the first Test versus Sri Lanka last month. The left-arm pacer suffered a knee injury and, hence, has been ruled out of the forthcoming Asia Cup 2022 edition, set to get underway on August 27 in the UAE. However, an injured Shaheen has travelled to the UAE for the Asian championship with the Babar Azam-led squad. Recently, Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) spokesperson opened up in this regard and revealed the reason behind the 22-year-old's presence in the Pakistan squad. "Babar wanted him to stay with the team. Management wants to closely monitor his injury rehab. He will be staying in Dubai itself with the team," PCB spokesperson confirmed to the local media in Pakistan. 🫂🤝 Pakistan and Afghanistan players exchange greetings in Dubai ahead of the #AsiaCup2022 🇵🇰🇦🇫#BackTheBoysInGreen pic.twitter.com/qd3wwceNq1 — Pakistan Cricket (@TheRealPCB) August 24, 2022 × ALSO READ | 'It's just another opposition' - Rohit Sharma downplays hype around India-Pakistan face-off in Asia Cup Shaheen won't be taking part in the Asia Cup as he has been ruled out, however, his presence will be handy for Team Pakistan as the two-time winners will hope to win the mega title ahead of the T20 World Cup scheduled in October-November in Australia. Pakistan will open their campaign versus arch-rivals India on August 28 in Dubai. This will be the first-ever face-off between the two sides following their clash in the 2021 T20 World Cup, where Shaheen's 3/31 helped the Men in Green score their maiden World Cup win over India. Back then, Babar & Co. defeated India by 10 wickets.

Why has injured Shaheen Afridi travelled to UAE with Pak team for Asia Cup? PCB spokesperson reveals

The stage is set for the forthcoming Asia Cup 2022 edition, set to get underway in the UAE on August 27. India and Pakistan -- two of the strongest teams in the competition -- will start as favourites and many await the Indo-Pak clash, which will take place on August 28 (Sunday)&nbsp;in Dubai.

Ahead of the commencement of the Asian championship, many former cricketers and experts of the game have made their predictions as to which team&nbsp;will walk away with the mega title. Former New Zealand all-rounder Scott Styris feels Rohit Sharma-led India -- the defending champions and seven-time winners&nbsp;-- have the ability to squash everybody, including Pakistan.

Speaking on SPORTS18’s daily sports news show ‘SPORTS OVER THE TOP’, Styris pointed out, "Well, as we know, India has a very strong T20 league as well. I think it's the ability to come together and play the style and brand of cricket that best suits your players. I thought that was the big trick that India missed at the last T20 World Cup as it took them about two games. The two losses they had before they just started to go after the opposition, impose themselves with the talent and skill that they've got. I want to see India do that in this Asia Cup. I want them to impose themselves on the other teams and l they've got the ability to do that, I think they've got the ability to squash everybody, including Pakistan, in this Asia Cup."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-is-not-out-of-form-the-issue-is-rashid-khan-shares-his-take-on-virat-kohlis-form-ahead-of-asia-cup-510038">'He is not out of form, the issue is...' - Rashid Khan shares his take on Virat Kohli's form ahead of Asia Cup</a>

Few words of caution

However, the New Zealander also mentioned that the Men in Blue shouldn't proceed into the marquee tournament with a middling attitude and feels that's where Babar Azam-led Pakistan have figured things out in a better way. "But if they're going to go into this with this middling attitude of how they want to play the game, then I don't think it's going to happen. I think that's where Pakistan have figured things out a little bit more. So yes, they've got a great T20 competition, but so does India. I don't think that's going to be a defining moment or factor in this match,”&nbsp;Styris added.

India are placed in Group A with Pakistan and Hong Kong. After the group stage, the Super Four round will be held before the summit clash, which takes place on September 11.

The stage is set for the forthcoming Asia Cup 2022 edition, set to get underway in the UAE on August 27. India and Pakistan -- two of the strongest teams in the competition -- will start as favourites and many await the Indo-Pak clash, which will take place on August 28 (Sunday) in Dubai.

The stage is set for the forthcoming Asia Cup 2022 edition, set to get underway in the UAE on August 27. India and Pakistan -- two of the strongest teams in the competition -- will start as favourites and many await the Indo-Pak clash, which will take place on August 28 (Sunday) in Dubai. Ahead of the commencement of the Asian championship, many former cricketers and experts of the game have made their predictions as to which team will walk away with the mega title. Former New Zealand all-rounder Scott Styris feels Rohit Sharma-led India -- the defending champions and seven-time winners -- have the ability to squash everybody, including Pakistan. Speaking on SPORTS18’s daily sports news show ‘SPORTS OVER THE TOP’, Styris pointed out, "Well, as we know, India has a very strong T20 league as well. I think it's the ability to come together and play the style and brand of cricket that best suits your players. I thought that was the big trick that India missed at the last T20 World Cup as it took them about two games. The two losses they had before they just started to go after the opposition, impose themselves with the talent and skill that they've got. I want to see India do that in this Asia Cup. I want them to impose themselves on the other teams and l they've got the ability to do that, I think they've got the ability to squash everybody, including Pakistan, in this Asia Cup." ALSO READ | 'He is not out of form, the issue is...' - Rashid Khan shares his take on Virat Kohli's form ahead of Asia Cup Few words of caution However, the New Zealander also mentioned that the Men in Blue shouldn't proceed into the marquee tournament with a middling attitude and feels that's where Babar Azam-led Pakistan have figured things out in a better way. "But if they're going to go into this with this middling attitude of how they want to play the game, then I don't think it's going to happen. I think that's where Pakistan have figured things out a little bit more. So yes, they've got a great T20 competition, but so does India. I don't think that's going to be a defining moment or factor in this match,” Styris added. India are placed in Group A with Pakistan and Hong Kong. After the group stage, the Super Four round will be held before the summit clash, which takes place on September 11.

'India have ability to squash everybody': Former NZ all-rounder feels Rohit & Co. favourites to win Asia Cup

Two-time Wimbledon champion&nbsp;Petra&nbsp;Kvitova announced her engagement to coach Jiri Vanek on Wednesday, posing with an engagement ring on her hand in her "special place".

"Happy news we wanted to share with you guys... I said 'yes' in my special place," the 32-year-old world number 21 tweeted, adding a photo of the couple from the All England Club.

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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/former-world-no1-angelique-kerber-announces-pregnancy-withdraws-from-us-open-509904">Former World No.1 Angelique Kerber announces pregnancy, withdraws from US Open</a>

Kvitova, who won Wimbledon in 2011 and 2014, hired the 44-year-old Vanek in 2016. Vanek has two sons from his previous marriage.

Kvitova lost to Caroline Garcia in the final of the WTA Cincinnati Masters last week in the run-up to the US Open which begins next week

Two-time Wimbledon champion Petra Kvitova announced her engagement to coach Jiri Vanek on Wednesday, posing with an engagement ring on her hand in her "special place".

Two-time Wimbledon champion Petra Kvitova announced her engagement to coach Jiri Vanek on Wednesday, posing with an engagement ring on her hand in her "special place". "Happy news we wanted to share with you guys... I said 'yes' in my special place," the 32-year-old world number 21 tweeted, adding a photo of the couple from the All England Club. Happy news we wanted to share with you guys… I said “yes” in my special place ❤️💍 pic.twitter.com/WlgDcKWMjr — Petra Kvitova (@Petra_Kvitova) August 24, 2022 × ALSO READ | Former World No.1 Angelique Kerber announces pregnancy, withdraws from US Open Kvitova, who won Wimbledon in 2011 and 2014, hired the 44-year-old Vanek in 2016. Vanek has two sons from his previous marriage. Kvitova lost to Caroline Garcia in the final of the WTA Cincinnati Masters last week in the run-up to the US Open which begins next week

Two-time Wimbledon champ Petra Kvitova gets engaged to coach, shares news in tweet

Virat Kohli is gearing up for his international return as India prepare for their 2022 Asia Cup opener, where they face arch-rivals Pakistan in Dubai on Sunday (August 28). The 33-year-old was out of action after India's tour of England and will be back in the forthcoming Asia Cup.

A lot is being said and written about Kohli's form. The right-hander hasn't had the best of run of late, with his international century-drought continuing since late 2019. Moreover, he returned from the England tour without a single half-century and had an ordinary run in IPL 2022. Rashid Khan, Afghanistan's vital cog, has now opened up on Kohli's form ahead of the Asia Cup opener, where the Afghan team&nbsp;will face Sri Lanka on August 27.

"The kind of shots that he plays, you don't think he's out of form at all. As per me, he is not out of form. The issue is that there are a lot of expectations from him as people expect him to score a century in every alternate match."

"Even when we look at his Test knocks, he did all the hard work and survived during tough periods and has then gotten out in 50s or 60s. If it was any other batter, everyone would have said that he was in good form. Kohli has set the bar so high that people now want him to just score hundreds," Rashid opined in an interview with Sawera Pasha on YouTube.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-didnt-feel-like-i-was-batting-well-virat-kohli-reflects-on-england-tour-ahead-of-return-in-asia-cup-509799">I didn't feel like I was batting well: Virat Kohli reflects on England tour ahead of Asia Cup return</a>

Rashid further asserted, "I spoke to him during the IPL and I don't think he wasn't too bothered by what people were saying. He works very hard, and we are motivated to do the same by looking at him."

"I saw him bat in the nets the night before our match against RCB, and I kept track of the time he spent in the nets. To be honest, he batted for around two and a half hours. I was astonished to see that, as we had winded up our whole practice session and he was still there," he concluded.

Rashid and Virat can face each other if India and Afghanistan clash in the Asia Cup. India, Hong Kong and Pakistan are in Pool A whereas Afghanistan, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh are placed in Pool B. The group stage will be followed by the Super 4 round before the summit clash, on September 11.

Virat Kohli is gearing up for his international return as India prepare for their 2022 Asia Cup opener, where they face arch-rivals Pakistan in Dubai on Sunday (August 28).

Virat Kohli is gearing up for his international return as India prepare for their 2022 Asia Cup opener, where they face arch-rivals Pakistan in Dubai on Sunday (August 28). The 33-year-old was out of action after India's tour of England and will be back in the forthcoming Asia Cup. A lot is being said and written about Kohli's form. The right-hander hasn't had the best of run of late, with his international century-drought continuing since late 2019. Moreover, he returned from the England tour without a single half-century and had an ordinary run in IPL 2022. Rashid Khan, Afghanistan's vital cog, has now opened up on Kohli's form ahead of the Asia Cup opener, where the Afghan team will face Sri Lanka on August 27. "The kind of shots that he plays, you don't think he's out of form at all. As per me, he is not out of form. The issue is that there are a lot of expectations from him as people expect him to score a century in every alternate match." "Even when we look at his Test knocks, he did all the hard work and survived during tough periods and has then gotten out in 50s or 60s. If it was any other batter, everyone would have said that he was in good form. Kohli has set the bar so high that people now want him to just score hundreds," Rashid opined in an interview with Sawera Pasha on YouTube. ALSO READ | I didn't feel like I was batting well: Virat Kohli reflects on England tour ahead of Asia Cup return Rashid further asserted, "I spoke to him during the IPL and I don't think he wasn't too bothered by what people were saying. He works very hard, and we are motivated to do the same by looking at him." "I saw him bat in the nets the night before our match against RCB, and I kept track of the time he spent in the nets. To be honest, he batted for around two and a half hours. I was astonished to see that, as we had winded up our whole practice session and he was still there," he concluded. Rashid and Virat can face each other if India and Afghanistan clash in the Asia Cup. India, Hong Kong and Pakistan are in Pool A whereas Afghanistan, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh are placed in Pool B. The group stage will be followed by the Super 4 round before the summit clash, on September 11.

'He is not out of form, the issue is...' - Rashid Khan shares his take on Virat Kohli's form ahead of Asia Cup

Cristiano Ronaldo made heads turn when he gatecrashed Sky Sports' pre-match show ahead of Manchester United's home encounter versus Liverpool in the ongoing English Premier League (EPL) 2022/23 season on Monday (August 22), at Old Trafford.

Ronaldo, who was not named in the starting XI for the Red Devils, came over to the touchline to interact with Sky Sports' star-studded team. While the Portuguese captain&nbsp;shook hands with former United skipper Gary Neville, he completely blanked ex-Liverpool and England defender Jamie Carragher. It is to be noted that the former English player has been vocal in criticising Ronaldo over his recent actions at Man United. Thus, the superstar striker brutually ignored him and left after having a few words with Roy Keane. Carragher, on the other hand, was completely taken aback by Ronaldo's behaviour.

Thus, former Liverpool defender Jose&nbsp;Enrique has lashed out at the 37-year-old Ronaldo's actions.&nbsp;“Keane and Gary(Neville) they have been killing him on Sky Sports as well so I’m sure is not because of that. Someone that played football for that long and made so many appearances for Liverpool at least you say hi out of respect. Another thing why I will never like Cristiano Ronaldo and when football finish let’s see who he will have around being like this,” the former Liverpool wrote on Twitter.

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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/man-uniteds-cristiano-ronaldo-was-open-to-take-pay-cut-to-be-part-of-borussia-dortmund-report-510003">Man United's Cristiano Ronaldo was open to take pay cut to be part of Borussia Dortmund: Report</a>

Meanwhile, Carragher has also reacted to Ronaldo's recent antics after the video of the incident went viral. "I get a custard pie for getting it right on Ronaldo from day one! The custard pie for him from ETH shows the Manager thinks the same!! Maybe the ex Man United Legends (sycophants!) will now agree with me," the Liverpool icon stated.&nbsp;

Talking about Erik Ten Hag-led Man United, the Old Trafford club managed to win their first-ever game in the ongoing EPL season, beating Liverpool 2-1. Earlier, they had lost their opening two matches -- versus Brighton and Brentford -- to get off to a disastrous start. Meanwhile, Ronaldo has made limited appearances in the three outings amid constant news of his eagerness&nbsp;to leave the club.

Cristiano Ronaldo made heads turn when he gatecrashed Sky Sports' pre-match show ahead of Manchester United's home encounter versus Liverpool in the ongoing English Premier League (EPL) 2022/23 season on Monday (August 22), at Old Trafford.

Cristiano Ronaldo made heads turn when he gatecrashed Sky Sports' pre-match show ahead of Manchester United's home encounter versus Liverpool in the ongoing English Premier League (EPL) 2022/23 season on Monday (August 22), at Old Trafford. Ronaldo, who was not named in the starting XI for the Red Devils, came over to the touchline to interact with Sky Sports' star-studded team. While the Portuguese captain shook hands with former United skipper Gary Neville, he completely blanked ex-Liverpool and England defender Jamie Carragher. It is to be noted that the former English player has been vocal in criticising Ronaldo over his recent actions at Man United. Thus, the superstar striker brutually ignored him and left after having a few words with Roy Keane. Carragher, on the other hand, was completely taken aback by Ronaldo's behaviour. Thus, former Liverpool defender Jose Enrique has lashed out at the 37-year-old Ronaldo's actions. “Keane and Gary(Neville) they have been killing him on Sky Sports as well so I’m sure is not because of that. Someone that played football for that long and made so many appearances for Liverpool at least you say hi out of respect. Another thing why I will never like Cristiano Ronaldo and when football finish let’s see who he will have around being like this,” the former Liverpool wrote on Twitter. pic.twitter.com/41MEfhEJk7 — José enrique (@Jesanchez3) August 23, 2022 × ALSO READ | Man United's Cristiano Ronaldo was open to take pay cut to be part of Borussia Dortmund: Report Meanwhile, Carragher has also reacted to Ronaldo's recent antics after the video of the incident went viral. "I get a custard pie for getting it right on Ronaldo from day one! The custard pie for him from ETH shows the Manager thinks the same!! Maybe the ex Man United Legends (sycophants!) will now agree with me," the Liverpool icon stated. Talking about Erik Ten Hag-led Man United, the Old Trafford club managed to win their first-ever game in the ongoing EPL season, beating Liverpool 2-1. Earlier, they had lost their opening two matches -- versus Brighton and Brentford -- to get off to a disastrous start. Meanwhile, Ronaldo has made limited appearances in the three outings amid constant news of his eagerness to leave the club.

'Will never...': Former Liverpool star lashes out at Cristiano Ronaldo for brutally ignoring Jamie Carragher

It was an all-Indian pre-quarterfinal face-off in the BWF World Championships on Thursday (August 25), which saw HS Prannoy take on the young prodigy Lakshya Sen. In what was a thrilling contest that went down to the wire, Prannoy defeated his compatriot in a three-set thriller to march forward to the quarter-finals.&nbsp;

After beating Kento Momota on Wednesday (August 24), Prannoy edged past Lakshya -- who won bronze medal in last year's championships -- to win&nbsp;17-21, 21-16, 21-17. There wasn't much separating the two Indian players as Lakshya -- fresh from his gold medal win in CWG 2022 -- had the lead in the first game with Prannoy making a lot of errors.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bwf-world-championships-lakshya-sen-rallies-to-r16-as-kidambi-srikanth-bows-out-509772">BWF World Championships: Lakshya Sen rallies to R16 as Kidambi Srikanth bows out</a>

Lakshya enjoyed a 3-0 lead before the 30-year-old Prannoy levelled it at 4-4. However, the youngster never looked like conceding the opening game and despite the experienced campaigner Prannoy stretching the initial round, Lakshya won 21-17.&nbsp;

In the second game, Prannoy came to his own with a much-better performance. With a 6-3 lead, he stormed ahead before Lakshya showed his skills and character to come at par with him at 10-10. The 21-year-old even went ahead and was leading 11-10 before Prannoy came from behind to make it 14-12 and eventually pocketed the second and penultimate game 21-16.&nbsp;

The third and final game also lived upto expectations with both the players matching each other with every shot and providing some scintillating display of badminton. Prannoy led 11-8 and eventually used his experience to go past a competitive Lakshya by winning the last game 21-17. Thus, he moves ahead into the quarter-finals. He is now the only player in the singles competition, with Saina Nehwal also bowing out with defeat in her Round of 16 clash.

It was an all-Indian pre-quarterfinal face-off in the BWF World Championships on Thursday (August 25), which saw HS Prannoy take on the young prodigy Lakshya Sen.

It was an all-Indian pre-quarterfinal face-off in the BWF World Championships on Thursday (August 25), which saw HS Prannoy take on the young prodigy Lakshya Sen. In what was a thrilling contest that went down to the wire, Prannoy defeated his compatriot in a three-set thriller to march forward to the quarter-finals. After beating Kento Momota on Wednesday (August 24), Prannoy edged past Lakshya -- who won bronze medal in last year's championships -- to win 17-21, 21-16, 21-17. There wasn't much separating the two Indian players as Lakshya -- fresh from his gold medal win in CWG 2022 -- had the lead in the first game with Prannoy making a lot of errors. ALSO READ | BWF World Championships: Lakshya Sen rallies to R16 as Kidambi Srikanth bows out Lakshya enjoyed a 3-0 lead before the 30-year-old Prannoy levelled it at 4-4. However, the youngster never looked like conceding the opening game and despite the experienced campaigner Prannoy stretching the initial round, Lakshya won 21-17. In the second game, Prannoy came to his own with a much-better performance. With a 6-3 lead, he stormed ahead before Lakshya showed his skills and character to come at par with him at 10-10. The 21-year-old even went ahead and was leading 11-10 before Prannoy came from behind to make it 14-12 and eventually pocketed the second and penultimate game 21-16. The third and final game also lived upto expectations with both the players matching each other with every shot and providing some scintillating display of badminton. Prannoy led 11-8 and eventually used his experience to go past a competitive Lakshya by winning the last game 21-17. Thus, he moves ahead into the quarter-finals. He is now the only player in the singles competition, with Saina Nehwal also bowing out with defeat in her Round of 16 clash.

BWF World Championships: HS Prannoy edges past compatriot Lakshya Sen, enters quarter-finals

The White House has a dim view of former American pro basketball player Dennis Rodman's reported plan to travel to Russia and gain the release of American basketball star Brittney Griner, a source familiar with the matter said on Monday.

Griner, 31, is a two-time Olympic champion and star player in the Women's National Basketball Association (WBNA). Earlier this month she convicted by a Russian court and given a nine-year sentence on drug charges.

U.S. President Joe Biden has condemned the verdict, calling it "unacceptable." The United States has offered to exchange her for Viktor Bout, a Russian arms dealer serving a 25-year prison sentence in the United States.

Rodman told NBC News on Saturday that he plans to visit Russia to seek Griner's release. "I got permission to go to Russia to help that girl," Rodman said.

"I'm trying to go this week." The NBC story did not explain who he received permission from. A senior administration official, who asked to remain anonymous, made clear the White House does not approve.

"It is public information that the administration has made a significant offer to the Russians and anything other than negotiating further through the established channel is likely to complicate and hinder release efforts," the official said.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tiger-woods-leads-pga-tours-fightback-against-breakaway-liv-golf-series-509458">Tiger Woods leads PGA Tour's fightback against breakaway LIV Golf Series</a>

The official also noted the State Department has issued a travel advisory warning Americans not to travel to Russia. Rodman has sought to inject himself into international diplomacy in the past. He is one of a handful of Westerners to have met North Korean head of state Kim Jong Un.

The White House has a dim view of former American pro basketball player Dennis Rodman's reported plan to travel to Russia and gain the release of American basketball star Brittney Griner, a source familiar with the matter said on Monday.

The White House has a dim view of former American pro basketball player Dennis Rodman's reported plan to travel to Russia and gain the release of American basketball star Brittney Griner, a source familiar with the matter said on Monday. Griner, 31, is a two-time Olympic champion and star player in the Women's National Basketball Association (WBNA). Earlier this month she convicted by a Russian court and given a nine-year sentence on drug charges. U.S. President Joe Biden has condemned the verdict, calling it "unacceptable." The United States has offered to exchange her for Viktor Bout, a Russian arms dealer serving a 25-year prison sentence in the United States. Rodman told NBC News on Saturday that he plans to visit Russia to seek Griner's release. "I got permission to go to Russia to help that girl," Rodman said. "I'm trying to go this week." The NBC story did not explain who he received permission from. A senior administration official, who asked to remain anonymous, made clear the White House does not approve. "It is public information that the administration has made a significant offer to the Russians and anything other than negotiating further through the established channel is likely to complicate and hinder release efforts," the official said. ALSO READ | Tiger Woods leads PGA Tour's fightback against breakaway LIV Golf Series The official also noted the State Department has issued a travel advisory warning Americans not to travel to Russia. Rodman has sought to inject himself into international diplomacy in the past. He is one of a handful of Westerners to have met North Korean head of state Kim Jong Un.

US disapproves of Dennis Rodman's planned rescue mission for basketball star Brittney Griner

Three-time Grand Slam champion and former World No.2 Angelique Kerber on Wednesday announced that she is pregnant and will miss this season`s last Grand Slam US Open. Kerber, 34, last played at Wimbledon, where she fell in the third round. The German fully plans to continue her career. Talking to Twitter Kerber wrote," I really wanted to play the @usopen but eventually I decided that two against one just isn`t a fair competition. For the next months, I will take a break from travelling the globe as a tennis player but then again, I believe it`s for the best possible reason!"

"New York has often been a turning point in my career and it feels like this year will be no different in some way! From restarting my career in 2011 (ranked 92 she reached the semi-finals) to winning the title in 2016 and becoming #1 in the world."Kerber the 2016 Australian Open and 2018 Wimbledon champion said that she was excited about her new chapter." Being a professional athlete means everything to me but I`m grateful for the new path I`m heading to," she said.

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I really wanted to play the <a href="https://twitter.com/usopen?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@usopen</a> but eventually I decided that two against one just isn‘t a fair competition 👼🫶🏻🍼❤️ <a href="https://t.co/Y6rRYOIUDR">pic.twitter.com/Y6rRYOIUDR</a>
— Angelique Kerber (@AngeliqueKerber) <a href="https://twitter.com/AngeliqueKerber/status/1562379633890402304?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 24, 2022</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/there-will-be-tennis-great-martina-navratilova-on-serena-williams-fate-at-us-open-509848">'There will be.....': Tennis great Martina Navratilova on Serena Williams' fate at US Open</a>

Kerber is currently ranked No.52 in the world. In 2016, following her first two Grand Slam titles, at the Australian and US Opens, Kerber ascended to the No.1 ranking for the first time. She held the top spot for 20 successive weeks. Combined, she has had three separate stints as the No.1 player for a total of 25 weeks. Earlier this year, Kerber won a clay event at the Internationaux de Strasbourg, her 14th career title.

Three-time Grand Slam champion and former World No.2 Angelique Kerber on Wednesday announced that she is pregnant and will miss this season`s last Grand Slam US Open.

Three-time Grand Slam champion and former World No.2 Angelique Kerber on Wednesday announced that she is pregnant and will miss this season`s last Grand Slam US Open. Kerber, 34, last played at Wimbledon, where she fell in the third round. The German fully plans to continue her career. Talking to Twitter Kerber wrote," I really wanted to play the @usopen but eventually I decided that two against one just isn`t a fair competition. For the next months, I will take a break from travelling the globe as a tennis player but then again, I believe it`s for the best possible reason!" "New York has often been a turning point in my career and it feels like this year will be no different in some way! From restarting my career in 2011 (ranked 92 she reached the semi-finals) to winning the title in 2016 and becoming #1 in the world."Kerber the 2016 Australian Open and 2018 Wimbledon champion said that she was excited about her new chapter." Being a professional athlete means everything to me but I`m grateful for the new path I`m heading to," she said. I really wanted to play the @usopen but eventually I decided that two against one just isn‘t a fair competition 👼🫶🏻🍼❤️ pic.twitter.com/Y6rRYOIUDR — Angelique Kerber (@AngeliqueKerber) August 24, 2022 × ALSO READ | 'There will be.....': Tennis great Martina Navratilova on Serena Williams' fate at US Open Kerber is currently ranked No.52 in the world. In 2016, following her first two Grand Slam titles, at the Australian and US Opens, Kerber ascended to the No.1 ranking for the first time. She held the top spot for 20 successive weeks. Combined, she has had three separate stints as the No.1 player for a total of 25 weeks. Earlier this year, Kerber won a clay event at the Internationaux de Strasbourg, her 14th career title.

Former World No.1 Angelique Kerber announces pregnancy, withdraws from US Open

Not a lot of days remain for the commencement of the forthcoming Asia Cup 2022 edition, in the UAE. Ahead of the tournament, all eyes are on the India-Pakistan clash, which will be held on the second day, i.e. on August 28 at the iconic Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai.&nbsp;

The forthcoming Indo-Pak clash will be the first-ever meeting between the two Asian giants post the 2021 T20 World Cup, where Babar Azam &amp; Co. thrashed India by ten wickets at the same venue in Dubai. While Babar-led Men in Green will hope for a similar such script in the making this time around as well, Rohit Sharma's Team India will aim for redemption.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/asia-cup-2022-explained-how-india-might-take-on-pakistan-thrice-in-mega-event-509718">Asia Cup 2022: EXPLAINED! How India might take on Pakistan thrice in mega event</a>

Ahead of the much-awaited clash, superstars Virat Kohli and Babar met each other and were all smiles as they shook hands ahead at the iconic venue in Dubai. Here's the video shared by the BCCI which has now gone viral on social media platforms:

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Hello DUBAI 🇦🇪 
 
Hugs, smiles and warm-ups as we begin prep for <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AsiaCup2022?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AsiaCup2022</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AsiaCup?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AsiaCup</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> 🇮🇳 <a href="https://t.co/bVo2TWa1sz">pic.twitter.com/bVo2TWa1sz</a>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1562455671396012034?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 24, 2022</a></blockquote>
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For the unversed, India and Pakistan are placed in Pool A, where they will also be joined by a team from the qualifying round. Post the group stage, the two sides are very likely to meet in the Super 4 and also in the summit clash. If India and Pakistan lock horns in the tournament finale, on September 11, it will be the first time that the two heavyweights will meet in the Asia Cup final.&nbsp;

The tournament is being played in the shortest format ahead of the 2022 T20 World Cup, to be held in Australia from October-November.

Not a lot of days remain for the commencement of the forthcoming Asia Cup 2022 edition, in the UAE. Ahead of the tournament, all eyes are on the India-Pakistan clash, which will be held on the second day, i.

Not a lot of days remain for the commencement of the forthcoming Asia Cup 2022 edition, in the UAE. Ahead of the tournament, all eyes are on the India-Pakistan clash, which will be held on the second day, i.e. on August 28 at the iconic Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai. The forthcoming Indo-Pak clash will be the first-ever meeting between the two Asian giants post the 2021 T20 World Cup, where Babar Azam & Co. thrashed India by ten wickets at the same venue in Dubai. While Babar-led Men in Green will hope for a similar such script in the making this time around as well, Rohit Sharma's Team India will aim for redemption. ALSO READ | Asia Cup 2022: EXPLAINED! How India might take on Pakistan thrice in mega event Ahead of the much-awaited clash, superstars Virat Kohli and Babar met each other and were all smiles as they shook hands ahead at the iconic venue in Dubai. Here's the video shared by the BCCI which has now gone viral on social media platforms: Hello DUBAI 🇦🇪 Hugs, smiles and warm-ups as we begin prep for #AsiaCup2022 #AsiaCup | #TeamIndia 🇮🇳 pic.twitter.com/bVo2TWa1sz — BCCI (@BCCI) August 24, 2022 × For the unversed, India and Pakistan are placed in Pool A, where they will also be joined by a team from the qualifying round. Post the group stage, the two sides are very likely to meet in the Super 4 and also in the summit clash. If India and Pakistan lock horns in the tournament finale, on September 11, it will be the first time that the two heavyweights will meet in the Asia Cup final. The tournament is being played in the shortest format ahead of the 2022 T20 World Cup, to be held in Australia from October-November.

WATCH: Virat Kohli, Babar Azam exchange greetings before India-Pakistan showdown at Asia Cup

Team India will enter the forthcoming Asia Cup 2022 edition as favourites. Given their red-hot form, India will be eyeing the title in the upcoming tournament which will be held in the UAE, where the last year's T20 World Cup was held.

Despite Men in Blue not succeeding in conditions on offer in the UAE during T20 WC, Rohit Sharma-led India have a strong squad this time around -- being better balanced and more aggressive with the bat&nbsp;-- to go the distance in the tournament. Ahead of the Asia Cup, which kicks off on August 27, former Indian batting coach Sanjay Bangar pointed out the 'small challenges' for skipper Rohit.&nbsp;

During an interaction on the&nbsp;Star Sports&nbsp;show 'Follow the Blues', former Indian cricketer Bangar revealed, "Rohit Sharma's biggest challenge in this Asia Cup I feel is some of the players who have not played regularly for the Indian team because of different-different reasons - it could be fitness or like Virat Kohli took a break, he is also making a comeback. KL Rahul had gotten injured."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-didnt-feel-like-i-was-batting-well-virat-kohli-reflects-on-england-tour-ahead-of-return-in-asia-cup-509799">I didn't feel like I was batting well: Virat Kohli reflects on England tour ahead of return in Asia Cup</a>

Further, Bangar highlighted that defending champions India will miss Jasprit Bumrah's services in the Asian championship.&nbsp;"Jasprit Bumrah is also not playing this tournament. So how he manages the bowling in Jasprit Bumrah's absence because Jasprit Bumrah is an extremely important element in India's bowling. So I feel these will be the small challenges in front of Rohit Sharma," he added.

Rohit-led India are strong title contenders for the Asia Cup. However, there are some issues as senior pros such as Virat and Rahul are returning at the highest level after some time. Moreover, Bumrah's absence -- due to a back injury -- can dent India's chances. In addition, head coach Rahul Dravid has tested positive, hence, Rohit might miss operating with him if the former captain doesn't travel to the UAE.

Team India will enter the forthcoming Asia Cup 2022 edition as favourites. Given their red-hot form, India will be eyeing the title in the upcoming tournament which will be held in the UAE, where the last year's T20 World Cup was held.

Team India will enter the forthcoming Asia Cup 2022 edition as favourites. Given their red-hot form, India will be eyeing the title in the upcoming tournament which will be held in the UAE, where the last year's T20 World Cup was held. Despite Men in Blue not succeeding in conditions on offer in the UAE during T20 WC, Rohit Sharma-led India have a strong squad this time around -- being better balanced and more aggressive with the bat -- to go the distance in the tournament. Ahead of the Asia Cup, which kicks off on August 27, former Indian batting coach Sanjay Bangar pointed out the 'small challenges' for skipper Rohit. During an interaction on the Star Sports show 'Follow the Blues', former Indian cricketer Bangar revealed, "Rohit Sharma's biggest challenge in this Asia Cup I feel is some of the players who have not played regularly for the Indian team because of different-different reasons - it could be fitness or like Virat Kohli took a break, he is also making a comeback. KL Rahul had gotten injured." ALSO READ | I didn't feel like I was batting well: Virat Kohli reflects on England tour ahead of return in Asia Cup Further, Bangar highlighted that defending champions India will miss Jasprit Bumrah's services in the Asian championship. "Jasprit Bumrah is also not playing this tournament. So how he manages the bowling in Jasprit Bumrah's absence because Jasprit Bumrah is an extremely important element in India's bowling. So I feel these will be the small challenges in front of Rohit Sharma," he added. Rohit-led India are strong title contenders for the Asia Cup. However, there are some issues as senior pros such as Virat and Rahul are returning at the highest level after some time. Moreover, Bumrah's absence -- due to a back injury -- can dent India's chances. In addition, head coach Rahul Dravid has tested positive, hence, Rohit might miss operating with him if the former captain doesn't travel to the UAE.

Sanjay Bangar points out 'small challenges' infront of Rohit Sharma ahead of Team India's Asia Cup campaign

All eyes are on Virat Kohli as the 33-year-old will return to the 22-yard cricket strip during the upcoming Asia Cup 2022 edition&nbsp;in the UAE. India open their campaign against arch rivals Pakistan&nbsp;in Dubai, with an aim to settle scores with the Babar Azam-led Men in Green following their ten-wicket defeat in the last face-off during the 2021 T20 World Cup.&nbsp;

For India to do well, they will need Kohli to return to form at the earliest. The former Indian captain has been away from action since the end of the England tour, where he failed to score even a half-century across formats.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/asia-cup-reminiscing-virat-kohlis-career-defining-183-versus-pakistan-in-2012-edition-509748">Asia Cup: Reminiscing Virat Kohli's career-defining 183 versus Pakistan in 2012 edition</a>

Kohli returned with only 76 runs in the England tour, which included&nbsp;the one-off Test, two ODIs and T20Is each. Recently, the superstar cricketer opened up on his batting struggles in England and admitted that he wasn't batting well (where he was continuously falling to deliveries pitched on the fourth/fifth-stump line).

"What happened in England was a pattern, so something that I could work on and something that I had to kind of overcome," Kohli revealed on the Star Sports show 'Game Plan'. "Right now, as you rightly mentioned, there is nothing that you can point out saying that the problem is happening here."

"So, that for me, is actually an easier thing to process because I know that I'm batting well and at times, when I start feeling that rhythm back, then I know that I'm batting well. So, that for me is not an issue, which wasn't the case in England; I didn't feel like I was batting well at all. So, I had to work hard on one thing that could be exposed again and again which I overcame; right now this is not the case," he added.

Kohli will play his 100th T20I when India face Pakistan in their Asia Cup opener on Sunday (August 28) in Dubai. Will he announce his return in style? Only time will tell...

All eyes are on Virat Kohli as the 33-year-old will return to the 22-yard cricket strip during the upcoming Asia Cup 2022 edition in the UAE. India open their campaign against arch rivals Pakistan in Dubai, with an aim to settle scores with the Babar Azam-led Men in Green following their ten-wicket defeat in the last face-off during the 2021 T20 World Cup.

All eyes are on Virat Kohli as the 33-year-old will return to the 22-yard cricket strip during the upcoming Asia Cup 2022 edition in the UAE. India open their campaign against arch rivals Pakistan in Dubai, with an aim to settle scores with the Babar Azam-led Men in Green following their ten-wicket defeat in the last face-off during the 2021 T20 World Cup. For India to do well, they will need Kohli to return to form at the earliest. The former Indian captain has been away from action since the end of the England tour, where he failed to score even a half-century across formats. ALSO READ | Asia Cup: Reminiscing Virat Kohli's career-defining 183 versus Pakistan in 2012 edition Kohli returned with only 76 runs in the England tour, which included the one-off Test, two ODIs and T20Is each. Recently, the superstar cricketer opened up on his batting struggles in England and admitted that he wasn't batting well (where he was continuously falling to deliveries pitched on the fourth/fifth-stump line). "What happened in England was a pattern, so something that I could work on and something that I had to kind of overcome," Kohli revealed on the Star Sports show 'Game Plan'. "Right now, as you rightly mentioned, there is nothing that you can point out saying that the problem is happening here." "So, that for me, is actually an easier thing to process because I know that I'm batting well and at times, when I start feeling that rhythm back, then I know that I'm batting well. So, that for me is not an issue, which wasn't the case in England; I didn't feel like I was batting well at all. So, I had to work hard on one thing that could be exposed again and again which I overcame; right now this is not the case," he added. Kohli will play his 100th T20I when India face Pakistan in their Asia Cup opener on Sunday (August 28) in Dubai. Will he announce his return in style? Only time will tell...

I didn't feel like I was batting well: Virat Kohli reflects on England tour ahead of Asia Cup return

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