Justin Langer replaced Darren Lehmann to become Australia's head coach post the ball-tampering scandal that rocked Australian cricket in early 2018. While it took some time for the Men in Yellow to regain their form and momentum, with Steve Smith-David Warner's year-long international ban, the Aussies slowly and steadily came to their own under Langer.

During Langer's tenure, which ended in February 2022, Australia retained the urn with a 2-2 scoreline in Ashes 2019, in England, won white-ball series in India, whitewashed Pakistan in five ODIs in the UAE, reached the 2019 ODI World Cup semi-finals, dominated in home Tests versus New Zealand, Sri Lanka and Pakistan, won the&nbsp; 2021 T20 World Cup and demolished England 4-0 in Ashes 2021-22. Despite all the success, his tenure ended controversially following a year&nbsp;of unrest and leaks against his&nbsp;methods. Many players had complained of Langer's&nbsp;intense and volatile micromanagement style.

After his resignation, a number of Langer's ex-teammates and Aussie greats such as Ricky Ponting, Matthew Hayden, Adam Gilchrist, late Shane Warne, etc. had come out and supported the former opener and even pointed out the mistreatment by Cricket Australia (CA).

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/hardik-pandyas-stocks-go-up-as-captain-star-player-could-lead-team-india-in-ireland-t20is-report-482360">Hardik Pandya's captaincy stocks on the rise, star player could lead Team India in Ireland T20Is: Report</a>

Thus, while recalling his conversation with the then interim chief Richard Freudenstein the day after he quit from the top post, Langer recently told cricket.com.au, "The first thing he said to me was, 'It must make you feel so good that all your mates are supporting you in the media.'"

"I said, 'Yeah it is, acting chairman, but with all due respect, those mates are also the all-time greats of Australian cricket. They are the fabric of Australian cricket. They are Australian cricket. They also work all around the world in cricket. So yeah, I'm glad my mates are looking after me. Imagine if you had had'.

He blamed the politics within to have led to his exit and added, "Not only did we win everything, but I had energy, and I had focus, and I was happy besides the bulls*** politics."

Justin Langer replaced Darren Lehmann to become Australia's head coach post the ball-tampering scandal that rocked Australian cricket in early 2018. While it took some time for the Men in Yellow to regain their form and momentum, with Steve Smith-David Warner's year-long international ban, the Aussies slowly and steadily came to their own under Langer.

Justin Langer replaced Darren Lehmann to become Australia's head coach post the ball-tampering scandal that rocked Australian cricket in early 2018. While it took some time for the Men in Yellow to regain their form and momentum, with Steve Smith-David Warner's year-long international ban, the Aussies slowly and steadily came to their own under Langer. During Langer's tenure, which ended in February 2022, Australia retained the urn with a 2-2 scoreline in Ashes 2019, in England, won white-ball series in India, whitewashed Pakistan in five ODIs in the UAE, reached the 2019 ODI World Cup semi-finals, dominated in home Tests versus New Zealand, Sri Lanka and Pakistan, won the 2021 T20 World Cup and demolished England 4-0 in Ashes 2021-22. Despite all the success, his tenure ended controversially following a year of unrest and leaks against his methods. Many players had complained of Langer's intense and volatile micromanagement style. After his resignation, a number of Langer's ex-teammates and Aussie greats such as Ricky Ponting, Matthew Hayden, Adam Gilchrist, late Shane Warne, etc. had come out and supported the former opener and even pointed out the mistreatment by Cricket Australia (CA). ALSO READ | Hardik Pandya's captaincy stocks on the rise, star player could lead Team India in Ireland T20Is: Report Thus, while recalling his conversation with the then interim chief Richard Freudenstein the day after he quit from the top post, Langer recently told cricket.com.au, "The first thing he said to me was, 'It must make you feel so good that all your mates are supporting you in the media.'" "I said, 'Yeah it is, acting chairman, but with all due respect, those mates are also the all-time greats of Australian cricket. They are the fabric of Australian cricket. They are Australian cricket. They also work all around the world in cricket. So yeah, I'm glad my mates are looking after me. Imagine if you had had'. He blamed the politics within to have led to his exit and added, "Not only did we win everything, but I had energy, and I had focus, and I was happy besides the bulls*** politics."

'I was happy besides the bulls*** politics' - Justin Langer opines on his exit as Australia men's team coach

International Boxing Association (IBA) on Thursday announced that Tokyo Olympics Bronze medallist Lovlina Borgohain has received the highest number of votes during the election held at the 2022 Women`s World Championships and thus has been elected as the chair and a voting member on the Board of Directors for the IBA`s Athletes` Committee. Further, Indian boxer Shiva Thapa has also been elected as a member of the IBA Athletes Committee following the election held during the 2021 IBA Men`s World Championships.

The duo, who are both under the Sports Authority of India`s (SAI) Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS) have confirmed that they have accepted their roles and look forward to representing India and other boxers at the Board of Directors` meeting.

Congratulating the athletes, Union Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports Anurag Singh Thakur wrote on Twitter, "Big congratulations @LovlinaBorgohai for being elected the Chair of the @IBA_Boxing Atheletes` Committee and @shivathapa for being elected a Member of @IBA_Boxing Athletes` Committee. It`s a big responsibility and I wish both of you the very best in delivering your duties."Speaking of being elected as the Chair, Lovlina said, "I feel honoured to have been elected as the chair of IBA`s Athlete`s Committee, I expected to become a member, but never thought that I will also become the chair of the committee, this will help me promote Indian boxing and especially women boxing to other boxers of the world."

"This is a huge opportunity for me to promote boxing and I plan to first discuss what all needs to be addressed in Boxing this year with other members and boxers of the world and then take those suggestions and grievances to the Board of Director`s committee," she added. Lovlina and Shiva were elected by the boxers that participated during the men`s and women`s world championships that were held in October 2021 and May 2022 respectively.&nbsp;

International Boxing Association (IBA) on Thursday announced that Tokyo Olympics Bronze medallist Lovlina Borgohain has received the highest number of votes during the election held at the 2022 Women`s World Championships and thus has been elected as the chair and a voting member on the Board of Directors for the IBA`s Athletes` Committee.

International Boxing Association (IBA) on Thursday announced that Tokyo Olympics Bronze medallist Lovlina Borgohain has received the highest number of votes during the election held at the 2022 Women`s World Championships and thus has been elected as the chair and a voting member on the Board of Directors for the IBA`s Athletes` Committee. Further, Indian boxer Shiva Thapa has also been elected as a member of the IBA Athletes Committee following the election held during the 2021 IBA Men`s World Championships. The duo, who are both under the Sports Authority of India`s (SAI) Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS) have confirmed that they have accepted their roles and look forward to representing India and other boxers at the Board of Directors` meeting. Congratulating the athletes, Union Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports Anurag Singh Thakur wrote on Twitter, "Big congratulations @LovlinaBorgohai for being elected the Chair of the @IBA_Boxing Atheletes` Committee and @shivathapa for being elected a Member of @IBA_Boxing Athletes` Committee. It`s a big responsibility and I wish both of you the very best in delivering your duties."Speaking of being elected as the Chair, Lovlina said, "I feel honoured to have been elected as the chair of IBA`s Athlete`s Committee, I expected to become a member, but never thought that I will also become the chair of the committee, this will help me promote Indian boxing and especially women boxing to other boxers of the world." "This is a huge opportunity for me to promote boxing and I plan to first discuss what all needs to be addressed in Boxing this year with other members and boxers of the world and then take those suggestions and grievances to the Board of Director`s committee," she added. Lovlina and Shiva were elected by the boxers that participated during the men`s and women`s world championships that were held in October 2021 and May 2022 respectively.

Tokyo 2020 bronze medallist Lovlina Borgohain elected as IBA's Athletes' Committee Chair

A lot pf speculations were there over Hardik Pandya ahead of the IPL 2022 edition. Having not played for Team India since the 2021 T20 World Cup, the star all-rounder was preparing himself for the 15th IPL season, in a bid to showcase his fitness and return to the Indian white-ball squads.

In the ongoing IPL season, the 28-year-old Hardik has stunned one and all with his all-round blitz and captaincy. Leading for the first time, Hardik has led with aplomb to take the debutant franchise Gujarat Titans (GT) to the final. With the bat, he has amassed 453 runs -- his best in any season -- and has bowled some tidy overs and accounted for five scalps. Thus, his stocks as a captain has risen and the all-rounder is in-line to lead India's second-stringed T20I side for the upcoming Ireland tour. It is to be noted that Rohit Sharma-Rahul Dravid pair will be involved with the Test line-up, at the same time, for the one-off match versus England.

“Hardik has been impressive. What is more satisfying is that he has become a very responsible player as a captain. He is certainly in the scheme of things for the captaincy role for the Ireland tour,”&nbsp;a member of the selection committee was quoted as saying by&nbsp;InsideSport.

<section>
ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-secretary-jay-shah-confirms-vvs-laxman-to-be-in-charge-of-indias-t20i-side-for-ireland-series-482148">BCCI secretary Jay Shah confirms VVS Laxman to be in charge of India's T20I side for Ireland series</a>

<section itemprop="articleBody">
Thus, Hardik could lead India for the first time in any format during the Ireland T20Is, which will get underway on June 26. Moreover, BCCI has confirmed that VVS Laxman -- the NCA chief -- will fill in for regular coach Dravid and be in charge of India for the Ireland series. "He will travel with the Indian team to Dublin" said Jay Shah, the BCCI Secretary.
</section>

<section itemprop="articleBody">
At present, Hardik-led Gujarat is in the IPL 2022 final and will play the winner of Qualifier 2, which will see Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) face Rajasthan Royals (RR).
</section>
</section>

A lot pf speculations were there over Hardik Pandya ahead of the IPL 2022 edition. Having not played for Team India since the 2021 T20 World Cup, the star all-rounder was preparing himself for the 15th IPL season, in a bid to showcase his fitness and return to the Indian white-ball squads.

A lot pf speculations were there over Hardik Pandya ahead of the IPL 2022 edition. Having not played for Team India since the 2021 T20 World Cup, the star all-rounder was preparing himself for the 15th IPL season, in a bid to showcase his fitness and return to the Indian white-ball squads. In the ongoing IPL season, the 28-year-old Hardik has stunned one and all with his all-round blitz and captaincy. Leading for the first time, Hardik has led with aplomb to take the debutant franchise Gujarat Titans (GT) to the final. With the bat, he has amassed 453 runs -- his best in any season -- and has bowled some tidy overs and accounted for five scalps. Thus, his stocks as a captain has risen and the all-rounder is in-line to lead India's second-stringed T20I side for the upcoming Ireland tour. It is to be noted that Rohit Sharma-Rahul Dravid pair will be involved with the Test line-up, at the same time, for the one-off match versus England. “Hardik has been impressive. What is more satisfying is that he has become a very responsible player as a captain. He is certainly in the scheme of things for the captaincy role for the Ireland tour,” a member of the selection committee was quoted as saying by InsideSport. ALSO READ | BCCI secretary Jay Shah confirms VVS Laxman to be in charge of India's T20I side for Ireland series Thus, Hardik could lead India for the first time in any format during the Ireland T20Is, which will get underway on June 26. Moreover, BCCI has confirmed that VVS Laxman -- the NCA chief -- will fill in for regular coach Dravid and be in charge of India for the Ireland series. "He will travel with the Indian team to Dublin" said Jay Shah, the BCCI Secretary. At present, Hardik-led Gujarat is in the IPL 2022 final and will play the winner of Qualifier 2, which will see Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) face Rajasthan Royals (RR).

Hardik Pandya's captaincy stocks on the rise, star player could lead Team India in Ireland T20Is: Report

Virat Kohli's 71st international hundred has been keenly awaited since 2019. The last time he played an IPL game at the iconic Eden Gardens, Kolkata, it was during&nbsp;the 2019 edition where the then Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) captain had returned with an impressive ton in his side's win over hosts Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in a high-scoring thriller.

Thus, when Kohli stepped on the field for his first-ever IPL game at the&nbsp;stadium on Wednesday evening (May 25), when RCB faced Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in IPL 2022 Eliminator, many banked on the star batter to replicate his 2019 success. He, however, fell for a 24-ball 25, laced with 2 fours, before Rajat Patidar's 112* propelled RCB to 207-4. In reply, KL Rahul's LSG were restricted to 193-6 to lose by 14 runs.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rajat-patidars-ton-helps-rcb-knock-lucknow-super-giants-out-of-ipl-2022-to-face-rr-in-qualifier-2-482197">Rajat Patidar's ton helps RCB knock Lucknow Super Giants out of IPL 2022, to face RR in Qualifier 2</a>

Despite Kohli's short stay in the middle, the former RCB captain struck some good shots and one of his boundaries were even appreciated by BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly, who was present in the stands. Here's Ganguly's reaction to Kohli's flawless flick shot:

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<a href="https://t.co/xiad0bBJ1Z">pic.twitter.com/xiad0bBJ1Z</a>
— Guess Karo (@KuchNahiUkhada) <a href="https://twitter.com/KuchNahiUkhada/status/1529528867207413760?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 25, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/if-i-was-kl-rahuls-coach-i-would-sanjay-manjrekar-opines-after-rcb-beat-lsg-in-eliminator-482332">'If I was KL Rahul's coach, I would....' - Sanjay Manjrekar opines after RCB beat LSG in IPL 2022 Eliminator</a>

At the post-match presentation, a jubilant RCB skipper Faf said, "Today was a special day. The guys put in a special performance. Over the moon. For a young guy to play like he did. The way he celebrated also tells you he has a good head on his shoulders. His hundred was one of the best I have seen in the IPL. Our bowlers were clear and calm and that was good. He has got all the shots. Every single time he attacks, he transfers the pressure back on the opposition. It is important to celebrate this despite something big is coming up. We were very happy as a group. As a group we needed some calm presence. We didn't feel like it was a big game. Every one was calm and relaxed."

RCB will now take on Rajasthan Royals (RR) in Qualifier 2 at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad to book a place in the final, where Gujarat Titans (GT) have already qualified.

Virat Kohli's 71st international hundred has been keenly awaited since 2019. The last time he played an IPL game at the iconic Eden Gardens, Kolkata, it was during the 2019 edition where the then Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) captain had returned with an impressive ton in his side's win over hosts Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in a high-scoring thriller.

Virat Kohli's 71st international hundred has been keenly awaited since 2019. The last time he played an IPL game at the iconic Eden Gardens, Kolkata, it was during the 2019 edition where the then Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) captain had returned with an impressive ton in his side's win over hosts Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in a high-scoring thriller. Thus, when Kohli stepped on the field for his first-ever IPL game at the stadium on Wednesday evening (May 25), when RCB faced Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in IPL 2022 Eliminator, many banked on the star batter to replicate his 2019 success. He, however, fell for a 24-ball 25, laced with 2 fours, before Rajat Patidar's 112* propelled RCB to 207-4. In reply, KL Rahul's LSG were restricted to 193-6 to lose by 14 runs. ALSO READ | Rajat Patidar's ton helps RCB knock Lucknow Super Giants out of IPL 2022, to face RR in Qualifier 2 Despite Kohli's short stay in the middle, the former RCB captain struck some good shots and one of his boundaries were even appreciated by BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly, who was present in the stands. Here's Ganguly's reaction to Kohli's flawless flick shot: pic.twitter.com/xiad0bBJ1Z — Guess Karo (@KuchNahiUkhada) May 25, 2022 × ALSO READ | 'If I was KL Rahul's coach, I would....' - Sanjay Manjrekar opines after RCB beat LSG in IPL 2022 Eliminator At the post-match presentation, a jubilant RCB skipper Faf said, "Today was a special day. The guys put in a special performance. Over the moon. For a young guy to play like he did. The way he celebrated also tells you he has a good head on his shoulders. His hundred was one of the best I have seen in the IPL. Our bowlers were clear and calm and that was good. He has got all the shots. Every single time he attacks, he transfers the pressure back on the opposition. It is important to celebrate this despite something big is coming up. We were very happy as a group. As a group we needed some calm presence. We didn't feel like it was a big game. Every one was calm and relaxed." RCB will now take on Rajasthan Royals (RR) in Qualifier 2 at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad to book a place in the final, where Gujarat Titans (GT) have already qualified.

RCB vs LSG: UNMISSABLE! How Sourav Ganguly reacted to Virat Kohli's glorious flick shot - WATCH

KL Rahul-led Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) locked horns with perennial underachievers Faf du Plessis' Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in IPL 2022's Eliminator at the Eden Gardens, Kolkata on Wednesday (May 25). In a high-scoring thriller, the three-time runners-up RCB stunned LSG by 14 runs to edge past them and book a slot in Qualifier 2.

Opting to bowl first, Rahul &amp; Co. leaked runs at will as No. 3 batter Rajat Patidar's stunning 112*, laced with 12 fours and 7 sixes at a whopping strike rate of 207.41, helped RCB post 207-4. Dinesh Karthik also contributed with an impressive 23-ball 37&nbsp;not out.&nbsp;In reply, LSG lost in-form opener Quinton de Kock for cheap but had skipper Rahul's presence till the penultimate over before losing by 14 runs to bow out of the tournament.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/virat-rohits-barren-run-to-mi-csks-mighty-fall-5-surprising-elements-from-ipl-2022s-league-stage-481871">Virat, Rohit's barren run to MI-CSK's mighty fall: 5 surprising elements from IPL 2022's league stage</a>

While Rahul top-scored for his side with a good-looking 58-ball 79, his strike rate was below 150 (136.21) and never managed to accelerate consistently to draw some criticism post Lucknow's defeat. Former Indian cricketer-commentator Sanjay Manjrekar dived deep into Rahul's strike rate issues and pointed out how he costs his side in some crunch run-chases by looking to bat deeper than quicker.

Speaking on ESPNCricinfo, Manjrekar opined how something similar would happen while Rahul was leading Punjab Kings (PBKS) in IPL 2020 and IPL 2021 - where finishers like Nicholas Pooran would not get enough time to get their eye in and go big.

"Quinton de Kock's wicket was very crucial because that would have taken the pressure off KL Rahul. KL Rahul's innings is something that we have seen before, when he was captain of Punjab Kings, the team would fall short of a run chase. And the scenario would be the same. You will have a KL Rahul bat till the very end, they would have lost three or four wickets, and people like Pooran would come in, like Evin Lewis came in the last two overs, Krunal and Stoinis towards the last, so it's like working with the crumbs and you have to come in and make up for the lack of the pace the innings had," Manjrekar said.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rajat-patidars-ton-helps-rcb-knock-lucknow-super-giants-out-of-ipl-2022-to-face-rr-in-qualifier-2-482197">Rajat Patidar's ton helps RCB knock Lucknow Super Giants out of IPL 2022, to face RR in Qualifier 2</a>

At the post-match presentation, Rahul shifted the blame on the fielders for LSG's exit. "I think it's quite obvious - the reasons why we didn't win. We let ourselves down in the field. Dropping easy catches never helps. Difference was obviously Patidar playing such a knock. When someone in the top three scores a hundred, more often the team wins. They fielded really well and we were poor. We'll take back a lot of positives. It's a new franchise. We've made a lot of mistakes, every team does that. Have to try and come back stronger," he stated.

Now, RCB face Rajasthan Royals (RR) in Qualifier 2 on Friday (May 28) at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad and the winner will face Gujarat Titans (GT), at the same venue, in the final on Sunday (May 29).

KL Rahul-led Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) locked horns with perennial underachievers Faf du Plessis' Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in IPL 2022's Eliminator at the Eden Gardens, Kolkata on Wednesday (May 25).

KL Rahul-led Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) locked horns with perennial underachievers Faf du Plessis' Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in IPL 2022's Eliminator at the Eden Gardens, Kolkata on Wednesday (May 25). In a high-scoring thriller, the three-time runners-up RCB stunned LSG by 14 runs to edge past them and book a slot in Qualifier 2. Opting to bowl first, Rahul & Co. leaked runs at will as No. 3 batter Rajat Patidar's stunning 112*, laced with 12 fours and 7 sixes at a whopping strike rate of 207.41, helped RCB post 207-4. Dinesh Karthik also contributed with an impressive 23-ball 37 not out. In reply, LSG lost in-form opener Quinton de Kock for cheap but had skipper Rahul's presence till the penultimate over before losing by 14 runs to bow out of the tournament. ALSO READ | Virat, Rohit's barren run to MI-CSK's mighty fall: 5 surprising elements from IPL 2022's league stage While Rahul top-scored for his side with a good-looking 58-ball 79, his strike rate was below 150 (136.21) and never managed to accelerate consistently to draw some criticism post Lucknow's defeat. Former Indian cricketer-commentator Sanjay Manjrekar dived deep into Rahul's strike rate issues and pointed out how he costs his side in some crunch run-chases by looking to bat deeper than quicker. Speaking on ESPNCricinfo, Manjrekar opined how something similar would happen while Rahul was leading Punjab Kings (PBKS) in IPL 2020 and IPL 2021 - where finishers like Nicholas Pooran would not get enough time to get their eye in and go big. "Quinton de Kock's wicket was very crucial because that would have taken the pressure off KL Rahul. KL Rahul's innings is something that we have seen before, when he was captain of Punjab Kings, the team would fall short of a run chase. And the scenario would be the same. You will have a KL Rahul bat till the very end, they would have lost three or four wickets, and people like Pooran would come in, like Evin Lewis came in the last two overs, Krunal and Stoinis towards the last, so it's like working with the crumbs and you have to come in and make up for the lack of the pace the innings had," Manjrekar said. ALSO READ | Rajat Patidar's ton helps RCB knock Lucknow Super Giants out of IPL 2022, to face RR in Qualifier 2 At the post-match presentation, Rahul shifted the blame on the fielders for LSG's exit. "I think it's quite obvious - the reasons why we didn't win. We let ourselves down in the field. Dropping easy catches never helps. Difference was obviously Patidar playing such a knock. When someone in the top three scores a hundred, more often the team wins. They fielded really well and we were poor. We'll take back a lot of positives. It's a new franchise. We've made a lot of mistakes, every team does that. Have to try and come back stronger," he stated. Now, RCB face Rajasthan Royals (RR) in Qualifier 2 on Friday (May 28) at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad and the winner will face Gujarat Titans (GT), at the same venue, in the final on Sunday (May 29).

'If I was KL Rahul's coach, I would....' - Sanjay Manjrekar opines after RCB beat LSG in IPL 2022 Eliminator

The third and penultimate game of the Women's T20 Challenge will see the Smriti Mandhana-led Supernovas lock horns with&nbsp;Deepti Sharma's Velocity, at the&nbsp;Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium, Pune on Thursday evening (May 26).

After Harmanpreet Kaur-led Supernovas won the opening game, beating Smriti Mandhana &amp; Co. convincingly by 49 runs,&nbsp;Velocity got the better of the former by seven wickets as the third and penultimate tie now is a must-win clash for Mandhana-led Trailblazers.&nbsp;

With Velocity's NRR&nbsp;+0.736, they just need to ensure they do not lose by a huge margin to reach the final and setup a rematch of the 2019 edition's summit clash, versus the Supernovas who have made it to the last fixture on the fourth successive occasion. Thus, Mandhana-led Trailblazers need their key players to stand tall after a stunning collapse in their first encounter.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/shafali-verma-laura-wolvaardt-dazzle-as-velocity-thrash-supernovas-by-7-wickets-in-womens-t20-challenge-481841">Shafali Verma, Laura Wolvaardt dazzle as Velocity thrash Supernovas by 7 wickets in Women's T20 Challenge</a>

Velocity’s likely playing 11 against Trailblazers: Shafali Verma, Laura Wolvaardt, Yastika Bhatia (wk), Natthakan Chantham, Deepti Sharma (c), Kiran Navgire, Sneh Rana, Radha Yadav, Kate Cross, Ayabonga Khaka, Maya Sonawane

Trailblazers’ likely playing 11 against Velocity: Smriti Mandhana (c), Hayley Matthews, Sophia Dunkley, Jemimah Rodrigues, Sharmin Akhter, Salma Khatun, Richa Ghosh (wk), Arundhati Reddy, Poonam Yadav, Rajeshwari Gayakwad, Renuka Singh

Squads:

Velocity: Shafali Verma, Natthakan Chantham, Yastika Bhatia(w), Laura Wolvaardt, Deepti Sharma(c), Kiran Navgire, Sneh Rana, Radha Yadav, Kate Cross, Ayabonga Khaka, Maya Sonawane, Keerthi James, Shivali Shinde, Simran Bahadur, Aarti Kedar, Pranavi Chandra

Trailblazers: Smriti Mandhana(c), Hayley Matthews, Jemimah Rodrigues, Sophia Dunkley, Sharmin Akhter, Richa Ghosh(w), Arundhati Reddy, Salma Khatun, Poonam Yadav, Renuka Singh, Rajeshwari Gayakwad, Sabbhineni Meghana, Priyanka Priyadarshini, Saika Ishaque, Shradda Bhau Pokharkar, Sujata Mallik

The third and penultimate game of the Women's T20 Challenge will see the Smriti Mandhana-led Supernovas lock horns with Deepti Sharma's Velocity, at the Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium, Pune on Thursday evening (May 26).

The third and penultimate game of the Women's T20 Challenge will see the Smriti Mandhana-led Supernovas lock horns with Deepti Sharma's Velocity, at the Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium, Pune on Thursday evening (May 26). After Harmanpreet Kaur-led Supernovas won the opening game, beating Smriti Mandhana & Co. convincingly by 49 runs, Velocity got the better of the former by seven wickets as the third and penultimate tie now is a must-win clash for Mandhana-led Trailblazers. With Velocity's NRR +0.736, they just need to ensure they do not lose by a huge margin to reach the final and setup a rematch of the 2019 edition's summit clash, versus the Supernovas who have made it to the last fixture on the fourth successive occasion. Thus, Mandhana-led Trailblazers need their key players to stand tall after a stunning collapse in their first encounter. ALSO READ | Shafali Verma, Laura Wolvaardt dazzle as Velocity thrash Supernovas by 7 wickets in Women's T20 Challenge Velocity’s likely playing 11 against Trailblazers: Shafali Verma, Laura Wolvaardt, Yastika Bhatia (wk), Natthakan Chantham, Deepti Sharma (c), Kiran Navgire, Sneh Rana, Radha Yadav, Kate Cross, Ayabonga Khaka, Maya Sonawane Trailblazers’ likely playing 11 against Velocity: Smriti Mandhana (c), Hayley Matthews, Sophia Dunkley, Jemimah Rodrigues, Sharmin Akhter, Salma Khatun, Richa Ghosh (wk), Arundhati Reddy, Poonam Yadav, Rajeshwari Gayakwad, Renuka Singh Squads: Velocity: Shafali Verma, Natthakan Chantham, Yastika Bhatia(w), Laura Wolvaardt, Deepti Sharma(c), Kiran Navgire, Sneh Rana, Radha Yadav, Kate Cross, Ayabonga Khaka, Maya Sonawane, Keerthi James, Shivali Shinde, Simran Bahadur, Aarti Kedar, Pranavi Chandra Trailblazers: Smriti Mandhana(c), Hayley Matthews, Jemimah Rodrigues, Sophia Dunkley, Sharmin Akhter, Richa Ghosh(w), Arundhati Reddy, Salma Khatun, Poonam Yadav, Renuka Singh, Rajeshwari Gayakwad, Sabbhineni Meghana, Priyanka Priyadarshini, Saika Ishaque, Shradda Bhau Pokharkar, Sujata Mallik

TRA vs SUP, Women's T20 Challenge 2022 prediction today: Who will win Velocity vs Trailblazers match?

Nicolo Zaniolo`s goal earned AS Roma a first major European title in more than 60 years after a 1-0 win over Feyenoord in the Europa Conference League final in Albania on Wednesday, completing a unique European trophy haul for Jose Mourinho. Roma coach Mourinho, who had previously won the Champions League, Europa League and the UEFA Cup, can now add the third-tier European title -- the Italian club`s first trophy in 14 years -- to his medal tally.

The 22-year-old Zaniolo earned Roma victory with an expertly-taken finish in the 32nd minute, as he became the first Italian to score in a European final since Filippo Inzaghi against Liverpool in the 2007 Champions League. Roma, whose only previous continental title was the old Fairs Cup in 1961, held off a spirited comeback from their Dutch opponents, who were twice denied by the woodwork in the second half, and ensured that Mourinho became the first manager to win a European trophy with four different clubs. 
"We are a real team, we proved that. Now we have to celebrate and then start again, which is always difficult after a great victory, but a real team wins, celebrates and starts again,” Roma captain Lorenzo Pellegrini told Sky Sport Italia.

"I said yesterday that I never would’ve imagined at the age of 25 to achieve this with the Roma jersey and the captain’s armband. It is a wonderful moment." Given both Roma and Feyenoord came into the contest having already secured Europa League football for next season through their domestic league position, it was all about the glory in Tirana.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/argentine-great-diego-maradonas-tribute-plane-unveiled-set-to-fly-for-2022-qatar-world-cup-482302">Argentine great Diego Maradona's tribute plane unveiled, set to fly for 2022 Qatar World Cup</a>

Early on it looked like there was only going to be one winner, as Roma dominated the opening exchanges, without troubling Feyenoord goalkeeper Justin Bijlow, playing his first match since March 10. 
One chance was all they needed to hold the lead at the interval, with Zaniolo brilliantly bringing the ball down on his chest before slotting home his first goal in all competitions since a hat-trick in the quarter-finals against Bodo/Glimt.

Zaniolo also became the youngest Italian to score in a major European final since Alessandro Del Piero against Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League in May 1997. 
Feyenoord, looking to be the first Dutch club to win a European competition in 20 years, since their 2002 UEFA Cup triumph, failed to really test Rui Patricio in the Roma goal in the opening period. 
Yet they started the second half brightly, with Roma`s Gianluca Mancini diverting an early Feyenoord corner onto his own post.

The Dutch side kept coming and hit the woodwork again as Tyrell Malacia’s superb strike from 25 metres was tipped onto the post by Patricio. Further chances came and went, but some last-ditch blocks and wasteful finishing ensured Roma`s long wait for a European trophy would end in Mourinho`s first season in the Italian capital.

Nicolo Zaniolo`s goal earned AS Roma a first major European title in more than 60 years after a 1-0 win over Feyenoord in the Europa Conference League final in Albania on Wednesday, completing a unique European trophy haul for Jose Mourinho.

Nicolo Zaniolo`s goal earned AS Roma a first major European title in more than 60 years after a 1-0 win over Feyenoord in the Europa Conference League final in Albania on Wednesday, completing a unique European trophy haul for Jose Mourinho. Roma coach Mourinho, who had previously won the Champions League, Europa League and the UEFA Cup, can now add the third-tier European title -- the Italian club`s first trophy in 14 years -- to his medal tally. The 22-year-old Zaniolo earned Roma victory with an expertly-taken finish in the 32nd minute, as he became the first Italian to score in a European final since Filippo Inzaghi against Liverpool in the 2007 Champions League. Roma, whose only previous continental title was the old Fairs Cup in 1961, held off a spirited comeback from their Dutch opponents, who were twice denied by the woodwork in the second half, and ensured that Mourinho became the first manager to win a European trophy with four different clubs. "We are a real team, we proved that. Now we have to celebrate and then start again, which is always difficult after a great victory, but a real team wins, celebrates and starts again,” Roma captain Lorenzo Pellegrini told Sky Sport Italia. "I said yesterday that I never would’ve imagined at the age of 25 to achieve this with the Roma jersey and the captain’s armband. It is a wonderful moment." Given both Roma and Feyenoord came into the contest having already secured Europa League football for next season through their domestic league position, it was all about the glory in Tirana. ALSO READ | Argentine great Diego Maradona's tribute plane unveiled, set to fly for 2022 Qatar World Cup Early on it looked like there was only going to be one winner, as Roma dominated the opening exchanges, without troubling Feyenoord goalkeeper Justin Bijlow, playing his first match since March 10. One chance was all they needed to hold the lead at the interval, with Zaniolo brilliantly bringing the ball down on his chest before slotting home his first goal in all competitions since a hat-trick in the quarter-finals against Bodo/Glimt. Zaniolo also became the youngest Italian to score in a major European final since Alessandro Del Piero against Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League in May 1997. Feyenoord, looking to be the first Dutch club to win a European competition in 20 years, since their 2002 UEFA Cup triumph, failed to really test Rui Patricio in the Roma goal in the opening period. Yet they started the second half brightly, with Roma`s Gianluca Mancini diverting an early Feyenoord corner onto his own post. The Dutch side kept coming and hit the woodwork again as Tyrell Malacia’s superb strike from 25 metres was tipped onto the post by Patricio. Further chances came and went, but some last-ditch blocks and wasteful finishing ensured Roma`s long wait for a European trophy would end in Mourinho`s first season in the Italian capital.

Nicolo Zaniolo's goal takes Roma to maiden Europa Conference League title

Sixth seed Carlos Alcaraz clawed back from the brink of a shock second-round defeat at the French Open on Wednesday to outlast fellow Spaniard Albert Ramos-Vinolas in a five-set marathon that fully tested his title credentials. The 19-year-old, who has taken the tennis world by storm this year, survived a match point in the fourth set before working his way back to win 6-1 6-7(7) 5-7 7-6(2) 6-4 in a match lasting over four hours and a half hours.

Alcaraz is now unbeaten for 12 straight matches after bagging back-to-back titles in Barcelona and Madrid going into Roland Garros. "I feel tired but I mean it was a great battle against a great player," he said. "I knew it would be a top match. We fought until the last point. I am so happy with the performance today. 
"I had my chances if I saved that match point. The tiebreak I was aggressive. In the fifth set I was fresh. I was like the beginning of the match. That match point changed everything."

Alcaraz, who has enjoyed a meteoric rise in the past 12 months, had looked unflustered by the blustery conditions on the Simonne Mathieu Court with a near flawless performance in the first set. The 34-year-old Ramos-Vinolas, a clay court specialist and quarter-finalist in Paris six years ago, had no response to Alcaraz`s explosive power and accuracy.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rafael-nadal-registers-300th-grand-slam-match-win-enters-french-opens-third-round-482226">Rafael Nadal registers 300th Grand Slam match win, enters French Open’s third round</a>

The teenager`s serve proved equally devastating as he gave away just three points in his service games in the first set. His veteran opponent, however, was far from done, putting up a stronger fight as unforced errors started creeping into Alcaraz`s game, including a forehand that sailed wide on Ramos-Vinolas`s set point.

With his opponent now clearly unsettled, having lost his earlier momentum and composure, Ramos-Vinolas moved Alcaraz around and broke him to go 2-1 up in the third set. Alcaraz was paying the price for his unforced errors and his 44th, a simple volley into the net, handed Ramos-Vinolas a break to go 6-5 up and he held serve to lead 2-1.

Facing the prospect of a shock exit, Alcaraz survived a match point at 5-4 before forcing a fifth set. 
He again had to work his way back from 0-3 to level before finishing Ramos-Vinolas off with an ace on his first match point.

Sixth seed Carlos Alcaraz clawed back from the brink of a shock second-round defeat at the French Open on Wednesday to outlast fellow Spaniard Albert Ramos-Vinolas in a five-set marathon that fully tested his title credentials.

Sixth seed Carlos Alcaraz clawed back from the brink of a shock second-round defeat at the French Open on Wednesday to outlast fellow Spaniard Albert Ramos-Vinolas in a five-set marathon that fully tested his title credentials. The 19-year-old, who has taken the tennis world by storm this year, survived a match point in the fourth set before working his way back to win 6-1 6-7(7) 5-7 7-6(2) 6-4 in a match lasting over four hours and a half hours. Alcaraz is now unbeaten for 12 straight matches after bagging back-to-back titles in Barcelona and Madrid going into Roland Garros. "I feel tired but I mean it was a great battle against a great player," he said. "I knew it would be a top match. We fought until the last point. I am so happy with the performance today. "I had my chances if I saved that match point. The tiebreak I was aggressive. In the fifth set I was fresh. I was like the beginning of the match. That match point changed everything." Alcaraz, who has enjoyed a meteoric rise in the past 12 months, had looked unflustered by the blustery conditions on the Simonne Mathieu Court with a near flawless performance in the first set. The 34-year-old Ramos-Vinolas, a clay court specialist and quarter-finalist in Paris six years ago, had no response to Alcaraz`s explosive power and accuracy. ALSO READ | Rafael Nadal registers 300th Grand Slam match win, enters French Open’s third round The teenager`s serve proved equally devastating as he gave away just three points in his service games in the first set. His veteran opponent, however, was far from done, putting up a stronger fight as unforced errors started creeping into Alcaraz`s game, including a forehand that sailed wide on Ramos-Vinolas`s set point. With his opponent now clearly unsettled, having lost his earlier momentum and composure, Ramos-Vinolas moved Alcaraz around and broke him to go 2-1 up in the third set. Alcaraz was paying the price for his unforced errors and his 44th, a simple volley into the net, handed Ramos-Vinolas a break to go 6-5 up and he held serve to lead 2-1. Facing the prospect of a shock exit, Alcaraz survived a match point at 5-4 before forcing a fifth set. He again had to work his way back from 0-3 to level before finishing Ramos-Vinolas off with an ace on his first match point.

Carlos Alcaraz survives match point to beat fellow Spaniard Albert Ramos-Vinolas in five-set thriller

Diego Maradona's sudden demise in late 2020 shocked the whole sporting fraternity. The legendary footballer died of a heart attack in November 2020 and the forthcoming FIFA World Cup, to be held later this year in Qatar, will be the first-ever&nbsp;edition of the showpiece event without the presence of Maradona.

Nonetheless, a plane --&nbsp;designed as a flying museum --&nbsp;dedicated to the great footballer Maradona was unveiled in Argentina and is set to fly for the&nbsp;Qatar World Cup, which will kick off on November 21.

The Maradona-inspired aircraft

The 12-seater plane -- called Tango D10S -- has been financed by an Argentine fintech company in memory of Maradona, who led the national team&nbsp;to&nbsp;the 1986 World Cup title.&nbsp;The aircraft features a picture of Maradona kissing the elusive World Cup trophy on the fuselage whereas the plane's tail comprises&nbsp;his face.

Talking about the wings, it has&nbsp;both of his goals in Argentina's famous 2-1 win over England in the World Cup quarter-final. The 'Hand of God' goal is on the left-wing whereas&nbsp;one of his goals that has been&nbsp;hailed&nbsp;as the greatest of all time on the opposite wing.

“I am mad about Maradona, one of those people who still watch videos of Diego before I go to sleep at night,” Gaston Kolker, CEO of fintech company Give and Get, told Reuters. "This is the first World Cup without Maradona and maybe the last with (Lionel) Messi. I said, I want to make Diego’s plane, I want to make Diego’s plane. And so we launched Tango D10S. When Maradona’s team mates saw it, the World Cup winners from 1986, they were amazed, they were hypnotised by the aircraft," he added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-texas-school-shooting-nba-coach-steve-kerr-makes-emotional-plea-to-senators-482288">Watch | Texas school shooting: NBA coach Steve Kerr makes emotional plea to senators</a>

Further, it has been known that the&nbsp;plane will be available for private hire before eventually being auctioned for charity. "We can't believe or understand this craziness, the love involved," Maradona's daughter Dalma said. "How far will fans go? As far as a plane."

Diego Maradona's sudden demise in late 2020 shocked the whole sporting fraternity. The legendary footballer died of a heart attack in November 2020 and the forthcoming FIFA World Cup, to be held later this year in Qatar, will be the first-ever edition of the showpiece event without the presence of Maradona.

Diego Maradona's sudden demise in late 2020 shocked the whole sporting fraternity. The legendary footballer died of a heart attack in November 2020 and the forthcoming FIFA World Cup, to be held later this year in Qatar, will be the first-ever edition of the showpiece event without the presence of Maradona. Nonetheless, a plane -- designed as a flying museum -- dedicated to the great footballer Maradona was unveiled in Argentina and is set to fly for the Qatar World Cup, which will kick off on November 21. The Maradona-inspired aircraft The 12-seater plane -- called Tango D10S -- has been financed by an Argentine fintech company in memory of Maradona, who led the national team to the 1986 World Cup title. The aircraft features a picture of Maradona kissing the elusive World Cup trophy on the fuselage whereas the plane's tail comprises his face. Talking about the wings, it has both of his goals in Argentina's famous 2-1 win over England in the World Cup quarter-final. The 'Hand of God' goal is on the left-wing whereas one of his goals that has been hailed as the greatest of all time on the opposite wing. “I am mad about Maradona, one of those people who still watch videos of Diego before I go to sleep at night,” Gaston Kolker, CEO of fintech company Give and Get, told Reuters. "This is the first World Cup without Maradona and maybe the last with (Lionel) Messi. I said, I want to make Diego’s plane, I want to make Diego’s plane. And so we launched Tango D10S. When Maradona’s team mates saw it, the World Cup winners from 1986, they were amazed, they were hypnotised by the aircraft," he added. ALSO READ | Watch | Texas school shooting: NBA coach Steve Kerr makes emotional plea to senators Further, it has been known that the plane will be available for private hire before eventually being auctioned for charity. "We can't believe or understand this craziness, the love involved," Maradona's daughter Dalma said. "How far will fans go? As far as a plane."

Argentine great Diego Maradona's tribute plane unveiled, set to fly for 2022 Qatar World Cup

Liverpool`s Juergen Klopp was recognised for his side`s tilt at an unprecedented quadruple this season as he was named the League Managers Association (LMA) and Premier League Manager of the Year on Tuesday. 
Liverpool won the League Cup and FA Cup and will play Real Madrid in the Champions League final on Saturday. They came up just short in the Premier League title race, finishing a point behind champions Manchester City.

"It`s a great honour and it was an insane season," said Klopp. "The last matchday when only two games were meaningless and in the rest, we all played for absolutely everything. It was not the best outcome for us, but we are already over it." The 54-year-old German won the Premier League award after votes from the public were combined with those of an expert panel, while the LMA prize was voted for by the full membership of managers across all the divisions.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-gives-green-signal-to-proposed-takeover-of-chelsea-by-todd-boehly-led-consortium-481995">Premier League gives green signal to proposed takeover of Chelsea by Todd Boehly-led consortium</a>

"This being voted for by my colleagues is obviously most important prize you can get," Klopp added.

Liverpool`s Juergen Klopp was recognised for his side`s tilt at an unprecedented quadruple this season as he was named the League Managers Association (LMA) and Premier League Manager of the Year on Tuesday.

Liverpool`s Juergen Klopp was recognised for his side`s tilt at an unprecedented quadruple this season as he was named the League Managers Association (LMA) and Premier League Manager of the Year on Tuesday. Liverpool won the League Cup and FA Cup and will play Real Madrid in the Champions League final on Saturday. They came up just short in the Premier League title race, finishing a point behind champions Manchester City. "It`s a great honour and it was an insane season," said Klopp. "The last matchday when only two games were meaningless and in the rest, we all played for absolutely everything. It was not the best outcome for us, but we are already over it." The 54-year-old German won the Premier League award after votes from the public were combined with those of an expert panel, while the LMA prize was voted for by the full membership of managers across all the divisions. ALSO READ | Premier League gives green signal to proposed takeover of Chelsea by Todd Boehly-led consortium "This being voted for by my colleagues is obviously most important prize you can get," Klopp added.

Liverpool boss Juergen Klopp bags Premier League and LMA Manager of the Year awards

The Boehly-Clearlake consortium, which agreed terms to acquire Chelsea for 4.25 billion pounds ($5.33 billion) earlier this month, passed the Premier League Owners` and Directors` Test, the league said on Tuesday, paving the way for the club`s takeover.

The proposal also needs approval from the British government before the consortium can complete the acquisition, with a week remaining before the club`s current operating licence expires on May 31. "The Board has applied the Premier League`s Owners` and Directors` Test (OADT) to all prospective Directors, and undertaken the necessary due diligence," the league said in a statement.

"The members of the consortium purchasing the club are affiliates of the Clearlake Capital Group, L.P., Todd Boehly, Hansjorg Wyss and Mark Walter." "Chelsea FC will now work with the relevant governments to secure the necessary licences to complete the takeover."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/robert-lewandowski-to-frenkie-de-jong-5-biggest-football-transfers-that-can-happen-this-summer-481077">Robert Lewandowski to Frenkie De Jong: 5 biggest football transfers that can happen this summer</a>

The British government is set to approve the sale after Chelsea`s Russian owner Roman Abramovich gave assurances he will not benefit from the deal, a source familiar with the situation told Reuters. 
Currently subject to sanctions by the British government, Abramovich put the London club up for sale in early March following Russia`s invasion of Ukraine, which Moscow calls a "special military operation". 
Abramovich dismissed reports that he wanted a loan given to the club, reportedly worth 1.5 billion pounds ($1.88 billion), to be repaid.

Chelsea previously confirmed all proceeds from the sale, which would be placed in a frozen UK bank account, will be donated to charitable causes by Abramovich. Groups led by Boston Celtics co-owner Stephen Pagliuca and former British Airways chairman Martin Broughton were earlier eliminated from the bidding process while a consortium led by Chicago Cubs owners the Ricketts family pulled out of the running.

The Boehly-Clearlake consortium, which agreed terms to acquire Chelsea for 4.25 billion pounds ($5.33 billion) earlier this month, passed the Premier League Owners` and Directors` Test, the league said on Tuesday, paving the way for the club`s takeover.

The Boehly-Clearlake consortium, which agreed terms to acquire Chelsea for 4.25 billion pounds ($5.33 billion) earlier this month, passed the Premier League Owners` and Directors` Test, the league said on Tuesday, paving the way for the club`s takeover. The proposal also needs approval from the British government before the consortium can complete the acquisition, with a week remaining before the club`s current operating licence expires on May 31. "The Board has applied the Premier League`s Owners` and Directors` Test (OADT) to all prospective Directors, and undertaken the necessary due diligence," the league said in a statement. "The members of the consortium purchasing the club are affiliates of the Clearlake Capital Group, L.P., Todd Boehly, Hansjorg Wyss and Mark Walter." "Chelsea FC will now work with the relevant governments to secure the necessary licences to complete the takeover." ALSO READ | Robert Lewandowski to Frenkie De Jong: 5 biggest football transfers that can happen this summer The British government is set to approve the sale after Chelsea`s Russian owner Roman Abramovich gave assurances he will not benefit from the deal, a source familiar with the situation told Reuters. Currently subject to sanctions by the British government, Abramovich put the London club up for sale in early March following Russia`s invasion of Ukraine, which Moscow calls a "special military operation". Abramovich dismissed reports that he wanted a loan given to the club, reportedly worth 1.5 billion pounds ($1.88 billion), to be repaid. Chelsea previously confirmed all proceeds from the sale, which would be placed in a frozen UK bank account, will be donated to charitable causes by Abramovich. Groups led by Boston Celtics co-owner Stephen Pagliuca and former British Airways chairman Martin Broughton were earlier eliminated from the bidding process while a consortium led by Chicago Cubs owners the Ricketts family pulled out of the running.

Premier League gives green signal to proposed takeover of Chelsea by Todd Boehly-led consortium

The 18-year career of Jo-Wilfried Tsonga came to end at Roland Garros after losing to Casper Ruud of Norway in the first round of the French Open here on Tuesday. With a vocal Court Philippe Chatrier crowd cheering him on that included close friend Gael Monfils, Tsonga fought valiantly against eighth seed Casper Ruud before the Norwegian prevailed 6-7(6), 7-6(4), 6-2, 7-6(0). 
 
The 37-year-old Tsonga soaked in a standing ovation for his storied career that includes 18 ATP Tour titles, a runner-up showing at the 2008 Australian Open and a career-high Pepperstone ATP Ranking of No. 5. 
 
"It`s tough for me and all the players that you`re stopping. You`ve been an inspiration to me and so many of the other players, so thank you for the memories," said Ruud, holding back tears in his on-court interview. "I have so many good memories watching Jo on TV. He`s such a great guy and nice person on and off the court. He`s a good example of what a player should be." 
 
Trailing 0-6 in the fourth-set tie-break, an emotional Tsonga fought back tears as they switched sides, then broke down as he stepped to the line to serve. 
 
Both men embraced at the net after a final Ruud forehand winner ended play after three hours and 49 minutes. The Court Philippe Chatrier crowd rose in unison as an emotional Tsonga waved to them before kneeling down on the court. 
 
With his family and children watching on court along with fellow French players Richard Gasquet, Benoit Paire and Monfils, he then took in a moving on-court ceremony that celebrated his career achievements. Novak Djokovic, Rafael Nadal, Roger Federer and Andy Murray all sent video messages for the ceremony that praised Tsonga as a player and person.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/french-open-world-no-4-stefanos-tsitsipas-overcomes-italys-lorenzo-musetti-challenge-to-advance-481990">French Open: World No. 4 Stefanos Tsitsipas overcomes Italy's Lorenzo Musetti challenge to advance</a>

"He`s one of the most charismatic players to play the game," said Djokovic. "He brought a lot of attention to the sport because of his charismatic game style. It`s a tremendous loss to men`s tennis, [but] he has made his mark on our sport." 
 
Injuries limited Tsonga to just 16 tour-level events since the beginning of 2020, but he was able to draw on ample experience in big matches throughout his career. He stayed with the Norwegian throughout the first set, trading service holds before sprinting to a 6/4 lead in the tie-break. Although Tsonga let slip his first two set points, he brought the crowd to its feet by converting on a third opportunity at 7/6. 
 
The second set also went to a tie-break and it appeared that Tsonga might build a two-set lead after gaining a 2/0 mini-break advantage with a drop shot winner. But as Ruud steadied his baseline game, Tsonga lost control of his and began leaking errors. Ruud took seven of the next nine points and struck a strong serve at 6/4 to level the match. Ruud broke Tsonga at 2-1 in the third set with a crosscourt forehand winner and secured an additional break at 5-2 to take a commanding advantage. 
 
Tsonga was forced to serve to keep his career alive at 4-5 in the fourth set, but bravely managed to hold on the back of aggressive baseline play. Buoyed by a crowd firmly on his side, he played a vintage game at 5-5 and broke Ruud to love. 
 
But while Ruud still looked fresh as the match surpassed three-and-a-half hours, Tsonga`s body began to break down. The pace on the Frenchman`s shots slowed considerably as he dropped serve at 6-5. Tsonga then received a medical timeout for treatment on his right shoulder before the start of the tie-break. 
 
Although there were moments of Tsonga flair in the final points that included an improvised left-handed forehand volley, Ruud swept through the tie-break without dropping a point. The eighth seed will face Emil Ruusuvuori in the second round.

The 18-year career of Jo-Wilfried Tsonga came to end at Roland Garros after losing to Casper Ruud of Norway in the first round of the French Open here on Tuesday.

The 18-year career of Jo-Wilfried Tsonga came to end at Roland Garros after losing to Casper Ruud of Norway in the first round of the French Open here on Tuesday. With a vocal Court Philippe Chatrier crowd cheering him on that included close friend Gael Monfils, Tsonga fought valiantly against eighth seed Casper Ruud before the Norwegian prevailed 6-7(6), 7-6(4), 6-2, 7-6(0). The 37-year-old Tsonga soaked in a standing ovation for his storied career that includes 18 ATP Tour titles, a runner-up showing at the 2008 Australian Open and a career-high Pepperstone ATP Ranking of No. 5. "It`s tough for me and all the players that you`re stopping. You`ve been an inspiration to me and so many of the other players, so thank you for the memories," said Ruud, holding back tears in his on-court interview. "I have so many good memories watching Jo on TV. He`s such a great guy and nice person on and off the court. He`s a good example of what a player should be." Trailing 0-6 in the fourth-set tie-break, an emotional Tsonga fought back tears as they switched sides, then broke down as he stepped to the line to serve. Both men embraced at the net after a final Ruud forehand winner ended play after three hours and 49 minutes. The Court Philippe Chatrier crowd rose in unison as an emotional Tsonga waved to them before kneeling down on the court. With his family and children watching on court along with fellow French players Richard Gasquet, Benoit Paire and Monfils, he then took in a moving on-court ceremony that celebrated his career achievements. Novak Djokovic, Rafael Nadal, Roger Federer and Andy Murray all sent video messages for the ceremony that praised Tsonga as a player and person. ALSO READ | French Open: World No. 4 Stefanos Tsitsipas overcomes Italy's Lorenzo Musetti challenge to advance "He`s one of the most charismatic players to play the game," said Djokovic. "He brought a lot of attention to the sport because of his charismatic game style. It`s a tremendous loss to men`s tennis, [but] he has made his mark on our sport." Injuries limited Tsonga to just 16 tour-level events since the beginning of 2020, but he was able to draw on ample experience in big matches throughout his career. He stayed with the Norwegian throughout the first set, trading service holds before sprinting to a 6/4 lead in the tie-break. Although Tsonga let slip his first two set points, he brought the crowd to its feet by converting on a third opportunity at 7/6. The second set also went to a tie-break and it appeared that Tsonga might build a two-set lead after gaining a 2/0 mini-break advantage with a drop shot winner. But as Ruud steadied his baseline game, Tsonga lost control of his and began leaking errors. Ruud took seven of the next nine points and struck a strong serve at 6/4 to level the match. Ruud broke Tsonga at 2-1 in the third set with a crosscourt forehand winner and secured an additional break at 5-2 to take a commanding advantage. Tsonga was forced to serve to keep his career alive at 4-5 in the fourth set, but bravely managed to hold on the back of aggressive baseline play. Buoyed by a crowd firmly on his side, he played a vintage game at 5-5 and broke Ruud to love. But while Ruud still looked fresh as the match surpassed three-and-a-half hours, Tsonga`s body began to break down. The pace on the Frenchman`s shots slowed considerably as he dropped serve at 6-5. Tsonga then received a medical timeout for treatment on his right shoulder before the start of the tie-break. Although there were moments of Tsonga flair in the final points that included an improvised left-handed forehand volley, Ruud swept through the tie-break without dropping a point. The eighth seed will face Emil Ruusuvuori in the second round.

French Open: Jo-Wilfried Tsonga bids tearful farewell to 18-year-long career after first-round exit

Author

Zee News Rajasthan

Editor

Aditya Sahay

Home

Live Tv

Latest

World

India

Business

Entertainment

Sports

Opinions

Videos

Photos

Gravitas

Lifestyle

Science

Tech

Rajasthan News in Hindi: In-depth coverage of Rajasthan Crime, Political News, Education, Rajasthan Weather Update and Latest Rajasthan News on Zee News Rajasthan.