Newly-appointed England captain Ben Stokes has indicated that pace-bowling stalwarts James Anderson and Stuart Broad will make a quick return to the Test squad for the three-match series at home against New Zealand starting on June 2 at Lord`s. Anderson and Broad were overlooked for England`s tour against West Indies earlier this year as selectors instead opted to provide greater opportunities to the next generation of pace bowlers. England fell to a 1-0 series defeat against West Indies during the series and star batter Joe Root stood down as skipper shortly after the team returned home.

England have since confirmed Rob Key as the new managing director of their men`s team and appointed Stokes as Test captain, with the short-term future of their two leading wicket-takers now looking rosier ahead of a busy summer schedule. Speaking for the first time since his appointment as captain on Tuesday, Stokes said he wants to bring a winning culture back to England and that he plans to have Anderson and Broad by his side this summer. "I want to win games of cricket for England. The best way to do that is picking your best XI and in my opinion if Stuart Broad and James Anderson are fit they are available for selection."ICC quoted Stokes as saying.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ben-stokes-succeeds-joe-root-to-become-englands-full-time-test-captain-474599">Ben Stokes succeeds Joe Root to become England's full-time Test captain</a>

Stokes indicated he would have a major say in deciding who would be appointed vice-captain of the Test team but swiftly ruled out Root as an option to take up the key role as deputy."I want selfless cricketers who make decisions based on winning the game of cricket for England. At the end of the day the most important thing is winning. I want to be part of a team that has that real mentality, that doesn`t take a backwards step," Stokes added.

Newly-appointed England captain Ben Stokes has indicated that pace-bowling stalwarts James Anderson and Stuart Broad will make a quick return to the Test squad for the three-match series at home against New Zealand starting on June 2 at Lord`s.

Newly-appointed England captain Ben Stokes has indicated that pace-bowling stalwarts James Anderson and Stuart Broad will make a quick return to the Test squad for the three-match series at home against New Zealand starting on June 2 at Lord`s. Anderson and Broad were overlooked for England`s tour against West Indies earlier this year as selectors instead opted to provide greater opportunities to the next generation of pace bowlers. England fell to a 1-0 series defeat against West Indies during the series and star batter Joe Root stood down as skipper shortly after the team returned home. England have since confirmed Rob Key as the new managing director of their men`s team and appointed Stokes as Test captain, with the short-term future of their two leading wicket-takers now looking rosier ahead of a busy summer schedule. Speaking for the first time since his appointment as captain on Tuesday, Stokes said he wants to bring a winning culture back to England and that he plans to have Anderson and Broad by his side this summer. "I want to win games of cricket for England. The best way to do that is picking your best XI and in my opinion if Stuart Broad and James Anderson are fit they are available for selection."ICC quoted Stokes as saying. ALSO READ | Ben Stokes succeeds Joe Root to become England's full-time Test captain Stokes indicated he would have a major say in deciding who would be appointed vice-captain of the Test team but swiftly ruled out Root as an option to take up the key role as deputy."I want selfless cricketers who make decisions based on winning the game of cricket for England. At the end of the day the most important thing is winning. I want to be part of a team that has that real mentality, that doesn`t take a backwards step," Stokes added.

England's new Test captain Ben Stokes keen for James Anderson, Stuart Broad to make swift comeback

The shirt worn by Diego Maradona when he scored two of the most famous goals in soccer history was sold for 7.14 million pounds ($8.93 million) on Wednesday, marking a new auction record for an item of sports memorabilia. Maradona wore Argentina`s No. 10 shirt in the 1986 World Cup quarter-final against England in Mexico. Six minutes into the second half he put his team ahead by punching the ball into the net for what became known as the "Hand of God" goal.

Four minutes later Maradona dribbled from his own half to score a goal widely considered one of the greatest in World Cup history. England midfielder Steve Hodge got Maradona`s jersey after the game and announced last month he was putting it up for auction after 19 years on display at England`s National Football Museum.

"This historic shirt is a tangible reminder of an important moment not only in the history of sports, but in the history of the 20th century," said Brahm Wachter, Sotheby`s Head of Streetwear and Modern Collectables. 
Sotheby`s said the buyer was anonymous.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/manchester-united-must-sign-two-modern-strikers-says-ralf-rangnick-ahead-of-erik-ten-hags-rebuild-476370">Manchester United must sign two 'modern' strikers, says Ralf Rangnick ahead of Erik Ten Hag's rebuild</a>

The sale broke the previous record for sports memorabilia set by the original autograph manuscript of the Olympic Manifesto from 1892, which went for $8.8 million in 2019. The sale of Maradona`s jersey was complicated by claims that the wrong shirt was going under the hammer, with his daughter and ex-wife saying Hodge received the shirt Maradona wore in the first half of the match.

Sotheby`s said they used photomatching technology to "conclusively" match the shirt to both goals by "examining unique details on various elements of the item, including the patch, stripes, and numbering". 
Maradona, regarded as one of the world`s best-ever footballers, died in November, 2020 aged 60.

The shirt worn by Diego Maradona when he scored two of the most famous goals in soccer history was sold for 7.14 million pounds ($8.93 million) on Wednesday, marking a new auction record for an item of sports memorabilia.

The shirt worn by Diego Maradona when he scored two of the most famous goals in soccer history was sold for 7.14 million pounds ($8.93 million) on Wednesday, marking a new auction record for an item of sports memorabilia. Maradona wore Argentina`s No. 10 shirt in the 1986 World Cup quarter-final against England in Mexico. Six minutes into the second half he put his team ahead by punching the ball into the net for what became known as the "Hand of God" goal. Four minutes later Maradona dribbled from his own half to score a goal widely considered one of the greatest in World Cup history. England midfielder Steve Hodge got Maradona`s jersey after the game and announced last month he was putting it up for auction after 19 years on display at England`s National Football Museum. "This historic shirt is a tangible reminder of an important moment not only in the history of sports, but in the history of the 20th century," said Brahm Wachter, Sotheby`s Head of Streetwear and Modern Collectables. Sotheby`s said the buyer was anonymous. ALSO READ | Manchester United must sign two 'modern' strikers, says Ralf Rangnick ahead of Erik Ten Hag's rebuild The sale broke the previous record for sports memorabilia set by the original autograph manuscript of the Olympic Manifesto from 1892, which went for $8.8 million in 2019. The sale of Maradona`s jersey was complicated by claims that the wrong shirt was going under the hammer, with his daughter and ex-wife saying Hodge received the shirt Maradona wore in the first half of the match. Sotheby`s said they used photomatching technology to "conclusively" match the shirt to both goals by "examining unique details on various elements of the item, including the patch, stripes, and numbering". Maradona, regarded as one of the world`s best-ever footballers, died in November, 2020 aged 60.

Argentina great Diego Maradona's ''Hand of God'' shirt sold for whopping 7.1 million pounds

MS Dhoni-starrer Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have locked horns with the Faf du Plessis-led Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in match 49 of IPL 2022 edition, on Wednesday evening (May 04) at the MCA Stadium, Pune.&nbsp;

The four-time winners and defending champions' skipper Dhoni unlocked a major milestone as he stepped on&nbsp;the field during the coin toss. The 40-year-old Dhoni became only the second player after RCB's former skipper Virat Kohli to play 200 matches for a single franchise in IPL history. While Kohli has only represented the RCB franchise all throughout the IPL, Dhoni also played for the now-defunct Rising Pune Supergiant (RPS) in 2016-17. Overall, he is playing his 230th&nbsp;IPL match on Wednesday evening.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/if-people-havent-understood-captain-ms-dhoni-in-15-years-no-point-explaining-ajay-jadeja-476343">If people haven’t understood captain MS Dhoni in 15 years, no point explaining: Ajay Jadeja</a>

At the coin toss, Dhoni-led CSK opted to bowl first as the Chennai captain opined, "We will bowl first. It stops a bit initially. And it's one of the venues where toss doesn't matter much because it's an open ground so the dew sets in pretty late. We are a side set for both ways (bat or bowl first). But it's important to play good cricket on the day. We will look to chase today. One change, in place of Santner we have Moeen."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-want-to-pick-kohlis-energy-dhonis-finishing-skills-and-rohits-stroke-making-lalit-yadav-476290">EXCLUSIVE | Want to pick Kohli's aggression, Dhoni's finishing skills and Rohit's stroke-making: Lalit Yadav</a>

Overall, Dhoni has amassed a whopping 4,866 runs in IPL, out of which 4,312 have come for the Yellow Army.&nbsp;

Talking about&nbsp;match 49 so far, CSK have restricted RCB to 173-8&nbsp;in 20 overs. They need to win all their remaining games to stand a chance of qualifying for the playoffs.

MS Dhoni-starrer Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have locked horns with the Faf du Plessis-led Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in match 49 of IPL 2022 edition, on Wednesday evening (May 04) at the MCA Stadium, Pune.

MS Dhoni-starrer Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have locked horns with the Faf du Plessis-led Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in match 49 of IPL 2022 edition, on Wednesday evening (May 04) at the MCA Stadium, Pune. The four-time winners and defending champions' skipper Dhoni unlocked a major milestone as he stepped on the field during the coin toss. The 40-year-old Dhoni became only the second player after RCB's former skipper Virat Kohli to play 200 matches for a single franchise in IPL history. While Kohli has only represented the RCB franchise all throughout the IPL, Dhoni also played for the now-defunct Rising Pune Supergiant (RPS) in 2016-17. Overall, he is playing his 230th IPL match on Wednesday evening. ALSO READ | If people haven’t understood captain MS Dhoni in 15 years, no point explaining: Ajay Jadeja At the coin toss, Dhoni-led CSK opted to bowl first as the Chennai captain opined, "We will bowl first. It stops a bit initially. And it's one of the venues where toss doesn't matter much because it's an open ground so the dew sets in pretty late. We are a side set for both ways (bat or bowl first). But it's important to play good cricket on the day. We will look to chase today. One change, in place of Santner we have Moeen." ALSO READ | EXCLUSIVE | Want to pick Kohli's aggression, Dhoni's finishing skills and Rohit's stroke-making: Lalit Yadav Overall, Dhoni has amassed a whopping 4,866 runs in IPL, out of which 4,312 have come for the Yellow Army. Talking about match 49 so far, CSK have restricted RCB to 173-8 in 20 overs. They need to win all their remaining games to stand a chance of qualifying for the playoffs.

IPL 2022: CSK skipper MS Dhoni joins Virat Kohli to become second player to enter special 200-club

Virat Kohli not only remains the face of Indian cricket team but the 33-year-old is also an IPL legend. The superstar right-hander is the leading run-getter in IPL history, with 6,411 runs under his belt. While he has not won an IPL title as yet, he is an absolute superstar for his franchise, i.e. the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB).

Kohli remains the only player to have represented a single franchise throughout the IPL, since its inception in 2008. The former Indian captain wasn't an instant hit in the cash-rich league, however, he came to his very best since IPL 2012 and has churned out runs at will for the franchise, also helping them reach the IPL 2016 final in his leadership.

Recently, Kohli opened up on his bond with the RCB franchise. The cricketer revealed that he has been offered attractive deals by other franchises and he himself was tempted to enter the IPL auction pool, however, his understanding and equation with the franchise has just grown over the years.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-want-to-pick-kohlis-energy-dhonis-finishing-skills-and-rohits-stroke-making-lalit-yadav-476290">EXCLUSIVE | Want to pick Kohli's aggression, Dhoni's finishing skills and Rohit's stroke-making: Lalit Yadav</a>

"To be very honest, I thought about it. Yes, I won't shy away from it and I have been approached many times as well to come into the auction somehow, put my name there and stuff. And then I thought about it, I was like, at the end of the day, everyone has X numbers of years that they live and then you die and life moves on. There would have been many great people who won trophies but no one addresses you like that. No one addresses you in the room like 'Oh he's an IPL champion or he's a World Cup champion."

"It's like if you are a good person, people like you, if you're a bad guy, they just stay away from you and, eventually, that's what life is all about," Kohli said on the 'Inside RCB' show on Star Sports

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/you-do-not-become-a-bad-player-overnight-ab-de-viliers-on-virat-kohlis-rough-patch-for-rcb-in-ipl-2022-476312">'You do not become a bad player overnight': AB de Viliers on Virat Kohli's rough patch for RCB in IPL 2022</a>

"For me, the understanding that loyalty with RCB, like how I follow my life, is far greater for me than the fact that five people in the room will say, oh finally, you win the IPL with whoever xyz. You feel good for five minutes, but then sixth minute you could be miserable with some other issues in life. So it is not the end of the world for me,” Kohli added.

Kohli will be desperate to end RCB's title-drought in this year's IPL season. So far, RCB have played ten games in the 15th season, winning and losing five each.&nbsp;

Virat Kohli not only remains the face of Indian cricket team but the 33-year-old is also an IPL legend. The superstar right-hander is the leading run-getter in IPL history, with 6,411 runs under his belt.

Virat Kohli not only remains the face of Indian cricket team but the 33-year-old is also an IPL legend. The superstar right-hander is the leading run-getter in IPL history, with 6,411 runs under his belt. While he has not won an IPL title as yet, he is an absolute superstar for his franchise, i.e. the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB). Kohli remains the only player to have represented a single franchise throughout the IPL, since its inception in 2008. The former Indian captain wasn't an instant hit in the cash-rich league, however, he came to his very best since IPL 2012 and has churned out runs at will for the franchise, also helping them reach the IPL 2016 final in his leadership. Recently, Kohli opened up on his bond with the RCB franchise. The cricketer revealed that he has been offered attractive deals by other franchises and he himself was tempted to enter the IPL auction pool, however, his understanding and equation with the franchise has just grown over the years. ALSO READ | EXCLUSIVE | Want to pick Kohli's aggression, Dhoni's finishing skills and Rohit's stroke-making: Lalit Yadav "To be very honest, I thought about it. Yes, I won't shy away from it and I have been approached many times as well to come into the auction somehow, put my name there and stuff. And then I thought about it, I was like, at the end of the day, everyone has X numbers of years that they live and then you die and life moves on. There would have been many great people who won trophies but no one addresses you like that. No one addresses you in the room like 'Oh he's an IPL champion or he's a World Cup champion." "It's like if you are a good person, people like you, if you're a bad guy, they just stay away from you and, eventually, that's what life is all about," Kohli said on the 'Inside RCB' show on Star Sports ALSO READ | 'You do not become a bad player overnight': AB de Viliers on Virat Kohli's rough patch for RCB in IPL 2022 "For me, the understanding that loyalty with RCB, like how I follow my life, is far greater for me than the fact that five people in the room will say, oh finally, you win the IPL with whoever xyz. You feel good for five minutes, but then sixth minute you could be miserable with some other issues in life. So it is not the end of the world for me,” Kohli added. Kohli will be desperate to end RCB's title-drought in this year's IPL season. So far, RCB have played ten games in the 15th season, winning and losing five each.

I've been approached many times to come into the auction: Virat Kohli opens up on loyalty with RCB

World number one Novak Djokovic began his quest for a fourth Madrid Open title with a 6-3 6-2 victory over Gael Monfils on Tuesday, improving his unbeaten record to 18-0 against the Frenchman. The result ensures Djokovic remains at the top of the rankings while it earned Monfils the ignominy of having the worst record against a single opponent without winning in the Open era.

"I would probably rate it as the best performance of the year," Djokovic told reporters. "I felt very good on the court. (The rain) interruption probably helped me a bit more than him. "I played one of the most athletic and quickest players that we have in the game, Gael... I know I have to always be ready that another ball will always come back from his part of the court.

"You have to constantly try to have a controlled aggression and dictate the point." Djokovic first played Monfils at the U.S. Open in 2005 but Tuesday`s match was only their second encounter on clay and he needed only one break point to clinch the first set.

Although Monfils fired more winners, he made things easier for the Serbian with several unforced errors as he attempted risky shots that did not pay off. Monfils did entertain the crowd with a few shots worthy of the highlights reel, including a `tweener` that had even Djokovic applauding along with the fans.

But the top seed was well in control of proceedings, breaking twice in the second set before serving for the match to advance to the third round where he will meet Andy Murray. Murray claimed his second clay victory in five years with a 6-1 3-6 6-2 win over Canada`s Denis Shapovalov, who fought back in the second set to force a decider but was crushed once again by the Scot in the third set.

Earlier, Andrey Rublev, who won the Serbia Open last month after beating Djokovic in the final, survived an early scare when he fought back from a set down to edge Britain`s 20-year-old Jack Draper 2-6 6-4 7-5. 
Rublev found himself 3-0 down in the decider but Draper suffered from cramps which allowed the Russian to rally and win the contest to move into the last-16. Seventh seed Carlos Alcaraz also had to fight back from two games down in the first set to overpower Nikoloz Basilashvili and deny the Georgian the chance to force a decider with a 6-3 7-5 win. The rising tennis star made the top-10 for the first time last week after winning the Barcelona Open earlier in April, the fourth title of his young career.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/madrid-open-andy-murray-downs-shapovalov-to-set-blockbuster-clash-against-djokovic-476264">Madrid Open: Andy Murray goes past Denis Shapovalov to set blockbuster clash vs Novak Djokovic</a>

KALININA`S DREAM RUN CONTINUES 
Ukrainian Anhelina Kalinina, who beat Sloane Stephens and Garbine Muguruza in the earlier rounds, knocked out a third Grand Slam champion in ninth seed Emma Raducanu to move into the quarter-finals with a 6-2 2-6 6-4 victory. Raducanu was broken to love in the opening game of the match and she quickly found herself 3-1 down as Kalinina fired forehand and backhand winners past the Briton, who struggled to find answers to her power from the baseline.

A second break to go up 5-2 gave Kalinina the chance to serve for the set and she sealed it without facing a single break point before Raducanu requested a medical timeout. The reigning U.S. Open champion had been clutching her back between points but she returned reinvigorated and seemingly pain-free to break three times in the second set to force a decider as Kalinina lost her momentum and made several errors. 
Both players were neck-and-neck in the final set as they stepped up their game but the Ukrainian made the crucial break at 4-4 to serve for the match, sealing victory when Raducanu`s volley went wide on her second match point.

"I was luckier on the deciding points," said Kalinina, ranked 37 in the world. "You see the draw and it`s only been Grand Slam champions. But I`m getting a lot of experience from this."

World number one Novak Djokovic began his quest for a fourth Madrid Open title with a 6-3 6-2 victory over Gael Monfils on Tuesday, improving his unbeaten record to 18-0 against the Frenchman.

World number one Novak Djokovic began his quest for a fourth Madrid Open title with a 6-3 6-2 victory over Gael Monfils on Tuesday, improving his unbeaten record to 18-0 against the Frenchman. The result ensures Djokovic remains at the top of the rankings while it earned Monfils the ignominy of having the worst record against a single opponent without winning in the Open era. "I would probably rate it as the best performance of the year," Djokovic told reporters. "I felt very good on the court. (The rain) interruption probably helped me a bit more than him. "I played one of the most athletic and quickest players that we have in the game, Gael... I know I have to always be ready that another ball will always come back from his part of the court. "You have to constantly try to have a controlled aggression and dictate the point." Djokovic first played Monfils at the U.S. Open in 2005 but Tuesday`s match was only their second encounter on clay and he needed only one break point to clinch the first set. Although Monfils fired more winners, he made things easier for the Serbian with several unforced errors as he attempted risky shots that did not pay off. Monfils did entertain the crowd with a few shots worthy of the highlights reel, including a `tweener` that had even Djokovic applauding along with the fans. But the top seed was well in control of proceedings, breaking twice in the second set before serving for the match to advance to the third round where he will meet Andy Murray. Murray claimed his second clay victory in five years with a 6-1 3-6 6-2 win over Canada`s Denis Shapovalov, who fought back in the second set to force a decider but was crushed once again by the Scot in the third set. Earlier, Andrey Rublev, who won the Serbia Open last month after beating Djokovic in the final, survived an early scare when he fought back from a set down to edge Britain`s 20-year-old Jack Draper 2-6 6-4 7-5. Rublev found himself 3-0 down in the decider but Draper suffered from cramps which allowed the Russian to rally and win the contest to move into the last-16. Seventh seed Carlos Alcaraz also had to fight back from two games down in the first set to overpower Nikoloz Basilashvili and deny the Georgian the chance to force a decider with a 6-3 7-5 win. The rising tennis star made the top-10 for the first time last week after winning the Barcelona Open earlier in April, the fourth title of his young career. ALSO READ | Madrid Open: Andy Murray goes past Denis Shapovalov to set blockbuster clash vs Novak Djokovic KALININA`S DREAM RUN CONTINUES Ukrainian Anhelina Kalinina, who beat Sloane Stephens and Garbine Muguruza in the earlier rounds, knocked out a third Grand Slam champion in ninth seed Emma Raducanu to move into the quarter-finals with a 6-2 2-6 6-4 victory. Raducanu was broken to love in the opening game of the match and she quickly found herself 3-1 down as Kalinina fired forehand and backhand winners past the Briton, who struggled to find answers to her power from the baseline. A second break to go up 5-2 gave Kalinina the chance to serve for the set and she sealed it without facing a single break point before Raducanu requested a medical timeout. The reigning U.S. Open champion had been clutching her back between points but she returned reinvigorated and seemingly pain-free to break three times in the second set to force a decider as Kalinina lost her momentum and made several errors. Both players were neck-and-neck in the final set as they stepped up their game but the Ukrainian made the crucial break at 4-4 to serve for the match, sealing victory when Raducanu`s volley went wide on her second match point. "I was luckier on the deciding points," said Kalinina, ranked 37 in the world. "You see the draw and it`s only been Grand Slam champions. But I`m getting a lot of experience from this."

Madrid Open: World No. 1 Novak Djokovic stays perfect against Gael Monfils, Emma Raducanu knocked out

MS Dhoni has done wonders in world cricket since his debut in late 2004. The veteran cricketer has made a resounding name for himself with his unorthodox yet effective wicketkeeping, finishing skills, power-hitting in limited-overs whereas he also did reasonably well in the purest format of the game.

Apart from his runs and centuries, ending with 17,266 international runs, 16 tons, 108 half-centuries and 829 dismissals behind the stumps, Dhoni has been inspirational as a leader. For Team India, he won all three major ICC titles as captain and also led the national side to the No. 1 spot across formats. Even for the Chennai Super Kings (CSK), Dhoni has guided the Yellow Army to four IPL trophies and two Champions League titles.&nbsp;

Dhoni is known for his street smartness, proactive and calm and composed nature, ability to effortlessly groom youngsters and change plans as per situations and opposition while leading a side. His tactical acumen has been hailed by many over the years. Prior to IPL 2022, Dhoni gave up CSK captaincy as Ravindra Jadeja succeeded him. However, he was reappointed CSK skipper for the remainder of the season after eight games. Talking about his leadership abilities, former Indian cricketer Ajay Jadeja reserved high praise for the keeper-batter and lauded him.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-cant-see-anyone-captain-csk-effectively-and-efficiently-after-ms-dhoni-says-ex-aussie-spinner-476309">I can't see anyone captain CSK effectively and efficiently after MS Dhoni, says ex-Aussie spinner</a>

“When Dhoni comes to the fore, it’s always a positive for the Chennai Super Kings. Earlier, it was the same case for India as well. He makes a difference. I am not saying that his captaincy won CSK the last game," Jadeja told&nbsp;Cricbuzz.

"It is not like Chennai have not lost matches under Dhoni. Players and captains come and go but a leader like Dhoni comes once in a lifetime. When he is in charge, he is something special. He has been doing this since 2007. If people haven’t understood in 15 years, what Dhoni the captain brings in, there is no point explaining anything to them,” Jadeja added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-want-to-pick-kohlis-energy-dhonis-finishing-skills-and-rohits-stroke-making-lalit-yadav-476290">EXCLUSIVE | Want to pick Kohli's aggression, Dhoni's finishing skills and Rohit's stroke-making: Lalit Yadav</a>

Under Dhoni, CSK still remain alive in the IPL 15&nbsp;playoffs race but by the barest of margins. In nine games, the four-time winners and defending champions Chennai have only three wins and need to pull up their socks to progress into the playoffs.

MS Dhoni has done wonders in world cricket since his debut in late 2004. The veteran cricketer has made a resounding name for himself with his unorthodox yet effective wicketkeeping, finishing skills, power-hitting in limited-overs whereas he also did reasonably well in the purest format of the game.

MS Dhoni has done wonders in world cricket since his debut in late 2004. The veteran cricketer has made a resounding name for himself with his unorthodox yet effective wicketkeeping, finishing skills, power-hitting in limited-overs whereas he also did reasonably well in the purest format of the game. Apart from his runs and centuries, ending with 17,266 international runs, 16 tons, 108 half-centuries and 829 dismissals behind the stumps, Dhoni has been inspirational as a leader. For Team India, he won all three major ICC titles as captain and also led the national side to the No. 1 spot across formats. Even for the Chennai Super Kings (CSK), Dhoni has guided the Yellow Army to four IPL trophies and two Champions League titles. Dhoni is known for his street smartness, proactive and calm and composed nature, ability to effortlessly groom youngsters and change plans as per situations and opposition while leading a side. His tactical acumen has been hailed by many over the years. Prior to IPL 2022, Dhoni gave up CSK captaincy as Ravindra Jadeja succeeded him. However, he was reappointed CSK skipper for the remainder of the season after eight games. Talking about his leadership abilities, former Indian cricketer Ajay Jadeja reserved high praise for the keeper-batter and lauded him. ALSO READ | I can't see anyone captain CSK effectively and efficiently after MS Dhoni, says ex-Aussie spinner “When Dhoni comes to the fore, it’s always a positive for the Chennai Super Kings. Earlier, it was the same case for India as well. He makes a difference. I am not saying that his captaincy won CSK the last game," Jadeja told Cricbuzz. "It is not like Chennai have not lost matches under Dhoni. Players and captains come and go but a leader like Dhoni comes once in a lifetime. When he is in charge, he is something special. He has been doing this since 2007. If people haven’t understood in 15 years, what Dhoni the captain brings in, there is no point explaining anything to them,” Jadeja added. ALSO READ | EXCLUSIVE | Want to pick Kohli's aggression, Dhoni's finishing skills and Rohit's stroke-making: Lalit Yadav Under Dhoni, CSK still remain alive in the IPL 15 playoffs race but by the barest of margins. In nine games, the four-time winners and defending champions Chennai have only three wins and need to pull up their socks to progress into the playoffs.

If people haven’t understood captain MS Dhoni in 15 years, no point explaining: Ajay Jadeja

Former Indian all-rounder Yuvraj Singh opened up on India's ICC title-drought since 2013. While Team India last lifted an ICC trophy in 2013 Champions Trophy, under MS Dhoni's leadership, they have come close in many following mega events only to fall short in the knockouts or finals.&nbsp;

Talking about India's 2019 ODI World Cup run, the Virat Kohli-led side were favourites for the marquee event in England and Wales. While they topped the round-robin stage, they were eliminated in the semi-finals with an 18-run defeat at the hands of eventual runners-up New Zealand. In the last year's T20 World Cup, Kohli &amp; Co. never found any momentum in their opening two games and despite winning their last three clashes, India bowed out of the tournament in the Super 12 round.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-cant-see-anyone-captain-csk-effectively-and-efficiently-after-ms-dhoni-says-ex-aussie-spinner-476309">I can't see anyone captain CSK effectively and efficiently after MS Dhoni, says ex-Aussie spinner</a>

Hence, Yuvraj -- who was the Player-of-the-Tournament in India's 2011 ODI World Cup success -- shared his take on where India went wrong and why they failed in the last two ICC events. “When we won the World Cup (2011), we all had a set position to bat. I felt 2019 World Cup; they didn’t plan it well,” Yuvraj said on Sports18’s Home of Heroes.

“They got Vijay Shankar to bat at #4 with just 5-7 ODIs, then they replaced him with&nbsp;Rishabh Pant, who had played 4 ODIs. When we played the 2003 World Cup, Mohd. Kaif, (Dinesh) Mongia and I had already played 50-odd ODIs,” Yuvraj added.

Dwelling on last edition of the T20 WC, Yuvi opined, "Our middle-order (batsmen) in T20 bats higher in franchise cricket. That is where we lacked in the last T20 World Cup."

<section>
ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ms-dhoni-got-support-from-virat-kohli-ravi-shastri-yuvraj-singh-rues-lack-of-backing-for-omission-475753">MS Dhoni got support from Virat Kohli-Ravi Shastri: Yuvraj Singh rues lack of backing for omission</a>

Rohit Sharma-led India will be eager to move past their 2021 T20 WC failures and go the distance in this year's edition, which is set to be held in Australia later this year. At present, India is the No. 1 ranked team in the latest ICC T20I rankings and, thus, will be confident of turning the tides in their favour in this year's edition Down Under.
</section>

Former Indian all-rounder Yuvraj Singh opened up on India's ICC title-drought since 2013. While Team India last lifted an ICC trophy in 2013 Champions Trophy, under MS Dhoni's leadership, they have come close in many following mega events only to fall short in the knockouts or finals.

Former Indian all-rounder Yuvraj Singh opened up on India's ICC title-drought since 2013. While Team India last lifted an ICC trophy in 2013 Champions Trophy, under MS Dhoni's leadership, they have come close in many following mega events only to fall short in the knockouts or finals. Talking about India's 2019 ODI World Cup run, the Virat Kohli-led side were favourites for the marquee event in England and Wales. While they topped the round-robin stage, they were eliminated in the semi-finals with an 18-run defeat at the hands of eventual runners-up New Zealand. In the last year's T20 World Cup, Kohli & Co. never found any momentum in their opening two games and despite winning their last three clashes, India bowed out of the tournament in the Super 12 round. ALSO READ | I can't see anyone captain CSK effectively and efficiently after MS Dhoni, says ex-Aussie spinner Hence, Yuvraj -- who was the Player-of-the-Tournament in India's 2011 ODI World Cup success -- shared his take on where India went wrong and why they failed in the last two ICC events. “When we won the World Cup (2011), we all had a set position to bat. I felt 2019 World Cup; they didn’t plan it well,” Yuvraj said on Sports18’s Home of Heroes. “They got Vijay Shankar to bat at #4 with just 5-7 ODIs, then they replaced him with Rishabh Pant, who had played 4 ODIs. When we played the 2003 World Cup, Mohd. Kaif, (Dinesh) Mongia and I had already played 50-odd ODIs,” Yuvraj added. Dwelling on last edition of the T20 WC, Yuvi opined, "Our middle-order (batsmen) in T20 bats higher in franchise cricket. That is where we lacked in the last T20 World Cup." ALSO READ | MS Dhoni got support from Virat Kohli-Ravi Shastri: Yuvraj Singh rues lack of backing for omission Rohit Sharma-led India will be eager to move past their 2021 T20 WC failures and go the distance in this year's edition, which is set to be held in Australia later this year. At present, India is the No. 1 ranked team in the latest ICC T20I rankings and, thus, will be confident of turning the tides in their favour in this year's edition Down Under.

That's where they lacked: Yuvraj Singh explains why India failed in last two ICC tournaments

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have not had a smooth ride in IPL 2022. The four-time winners and defending champions find themselves languishing at the ninth spot in the points table, with three wins from nine encounters. While they remain alive in the playoffs race, by the barest of margins, the Yellow Army have lots to do to enter the top four.

Among many other reasons, it is believed that MS Dhoni's decision to hand over captaincy to Ravindra Jadeja, prior to the season-opener, also led to CSK's poor form. Under Jadeja, Chennai looked clueless and won only two games from eight matches. After that, he requested Dhoni to take back captaincy as CSK beat Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) by 13 runs in their previous encounter.

While Dhoni is the CSK captain for the remainder of the season, the future doesn't look bright for the Yellow Army. They are nearing elimination in IPL 2022 and struggling to find someone who is capable enough to succeed Dhoni. In this regard, former Aussie spinner Brad Hogg feels that CSK have no one to take over as captain after Dhoni. "Who is going to take over from MS Dhoni at the end of this year? I can't see a player on CSK's team list that can captain this team effectively and efficiently. They will have to go to the auction next year to find a player of captaining ability, and try to find an Indian to do the job is going to be hard because all the best Indian T20 players have already been assigned to other franchises," Hogg said on his YouTube channel.

<section>
ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-want-to-pick-kohlis-energy-dhonis-finishing-skills-and-rohits-stroke-making-lalit-yadav-476290">EXCLUSIVE | Want to pick Kohli's aggression, Dhoni's finishing skills and Rohit's stroke-making: Lalit Yadav</a>

He added, "They will have to go to an international player. It will be difficult to find a player that will fit in to the balance and the game plan that CSK already have in place."

Hogg also opened up on Jadeja's decision to quit CSK captaincy in the middle of the season. With captaincy responsibilities, the star all-rounder was struggling to contribute with the bat and had managed only five scalps in the first eight fixtures. "He is one of the best all-rounders in the world, and he is the centerpiece of CSK's lineup, so you have to take the pressure away from him. We have learned that Jadeja is not right for the role, but he is a leader in his own right. Sometimes you lead in different ways, so MS Dhoni had to take over the role," said the Aussie.
</section>

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have not had a smooth ride in IPL 2022. The four-time winners and defending champions find themselves languishing at the ninth spot in the points table, with three wins from nine encounters.

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have not had a smooth ride in IPL 2022. The four-time winners and defending champions find themselves languishing at the ninth spot in the points table, with three wins from nine encounters. While they remain alive in the playoffs race, by the barest of margins, the Yellow Army have lots to do to enter the top four. Among many other reasons, it is believed that MS Dhoni's decision to hand over captaincy to Ravindra Jadeja, prior to the season-opener, also led to CSK's poor form. Under Jadeja, Chennai looked clueless and won only two games from eight matches. After that, he requested Dhoni to take back captaincy as CSK beat Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) by 13 runs in their previous encounter. While Dhoni is the CSK captain for the remainder of the season, the future doesn't look bright for the Yellow Army. They are nearing elimination in IPL 2022 and struggling to find someone who is capable enough to succeed Dhoni. In this regard, former Aussie spinner Brad Hogg feels that CSK have no one to take over as captain after Dhoni. "Who is going to take over from MS Dhoni at the end of this year? I can't see a player on CSK's team list that can captain this team effectively and efficiently. They will have to go to the auction next year to find a player of captaining ability, and try to find an Indian to do the job is going to be hard because all the best Indian T20 players have already been assigned to other franchises," Hogg said on his YouTube channel. ALSO READ | EXCLUSIVE | Want to pick Kohli's aggression, Dhoni's finishing skills and Rohit's stroke-making: Lalit Yadav He added, "They will have to go to an international player. It will be difficult to find a player that will fit in to the balance and the game plan that CSK already have in place." Hogg also opened up on Jadeja's decision to quit CSK captaincy in the middle of the season. With captaincy responsibilities, the star all-rounder was struggling to contribute with the bat and had managed only five scalps in the first eight fixtures. "He is one of the best all-rounders in the world, and he is the centerpiece of CSK's lineup, so you have to take the pressure away from him. We have learned that Jadeja is not right for the role, but he is a leader in his own right. Sometimes you lead in different ways, so MS Dhoni had to take over the role," said the Aussie.

I can't see anyone captain CSK effectively and efficiently after MS Dhoni, says ex-Aussie spinner

Lalit Yadav became a part of the Delhi Capitals (DC) since IPL 2020. While last year, he featured in almost half of the games for the Rishabh Pant-led Delhi camp, the all-rounder has been a regular in the DC playing XI in IPL 2022.

The 25-year-old Lalit has also chipped in with handy contributions with both bat and ball. With the willow, he has had a few starts and was one of the main protagonists in DC's four-wicket win over Mumbai Indians (MI) in their IPL 15 season-opener. At present, he averages at over 25 and has also scalped four wickets. Overall, he has an economy&nbsp;rate of&nbsp;7.90.

As the Delhi cricketer is learning the ropes in the star-studded DC franchise, Lalit interacted with WION's Aditya Sahay and dwelled on several aspects of his game, such as working closely with DC head coach Ricky Ponting, assistant coach Shane Watson, captain Rishabh Pant. In addition, he heaped praise on his inspiration Virender Sehwag and the famed trio -- Virat Kohli, MS Dhoni and Rohit Sharma.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-umran-malik-to-ayush-badoni-young-guns-who-have-taken-ipl-2022-by-storm-475810">From Umran Malik to Ayush Badoni: Young Indian stars who have taken IPL 2022 by storm</a>

DC have trusted you a lot over the years. How has it been working with Ricky Ponting and being led by a youngster like Rishabh Pant?

The coach and captain trust me a lot. This helps in one's growth and there is no room for any self-doubt. So, the individual only thinks about his abilities and goes out to perform freely. When a youngster&nbsp;comes into a team, he, or she,&nbsp;always wants to make a mark and impress the captain coach. But if they back and&nbsp;trust your abilities, your work is done. You then&nbsp;tend to enjoy the process.&nbsp;

You've been a handy batter at the top or middle order and can also&nbsp;bowl a few vital overs when required. Where do you think Delhi relies on you the most? Talk about your role within the team...

It's not like Delhi depends or relies on me in one particular department. I want to contribute in any way possible and in every department. Be it batting, bowling, or fielding. The team management has trusted me in different situations and in varied roles. That is a big confidence booster in itself. I've bowled in powerplays or slog overs. If early wickets have fallen, I often get promoted or sometimes also play the role of a slogger. Overall, whenever and wherever the team needs me, I am there (smiles).

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-behind-kuldeep-yadavs-comeback-virat-preferred-axar-patel-says-dc-spinners-childhood-coach-475722">Rohit behind Kuldeep Yadav's comeback, Virat preferred Axar Patel, says DC spinner's childhood coach</a>

You've been inspired by Virender Sehwag a lot. What is the one&nbsp;specific aspect&nbsp;that you want to learn after seeing his game?

It's not that I want to replicate something from Virender Sehwag. However, I'm a big fan of his. Hope I can also learn to hit the big shots so nonchalantly against the spinners and even pacers as he did.&nbsp;

From whatever you've&nbsp;seen and observed in MS Dhoni, Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, what is that one quality that you will pick&nbsp;from the trio and add to your game?

Virat Kohli's&nbsp;aggression and energy, MS Dhoni's match-finishing skills and calmness and Rohit Sharma's effortless stroke-making...He hits them with ease and at will. So, I'll want to take all these qualities and add to my game.&nbsp;

How has Shane Watson helped you in your batting? Do you talk with him about the different requirements of batting at different positions? Tell us about your interactions with the Aussie...

Shane Watson is a legend of the game. With him,&nbsp;he often shares incidents and stories from his playing days -- how he used to approach different situations and how his thought process was during his good and bad days. This is a sport. We all will have more bad days than good ones. So, all these things.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also, he emphasises and talks about the mental aspect of the game.

Lalit Yadav became a part of the Delhi Capitals (DC) since IPL 2020. While last year, he featured in almost half of the games for the Rishabh Pant-led Delhi camp, the all-rounder has been a regular in the DC playing XI in IPL 2022.

Lalit Yadav became a part of the Delhi Capitals (DC) since IPL 2020. While last year, he featured in almost half of the games for the Rishabh Pant-led Delhi camp, the all-rounder has been a regular in the DC playing XI in IPL 2022. The 25-year-old Lalit has also chipped in with handy contributions with both bat and ball. With the willow, he has had a few starts and was one of the main protagonists in DC's four-wicket win over Mumbai Indians (MI) in their IPL 15 season-opener. At present, he averages at over 25 and has also scalped four wickets. Overall, he has an economy rate of 7.90. As the Delhi cricketer is learning the ropes in the star-studded DC franchise, Lalit interacted with WION's Aditya Sahay and dwelled on several aspects of his game, such as working closely with DC head coach Ricky Ponting, assistant coach Shane Watson, captain Rishabh Pant. In addition, he heaped praise on his inspiration Virender Sehwag and the famed trio -- Virat Kohli, MS Dhoni and Rohit Sharma. ALSO READ | From Umran Malik to Ayush Badoni: Young Indian stars who have taken IPL 2022 by storm DC have trusted you a lot over the years. How has it been working with Ricky Ponting and being led by a youngster like Rishabh Pant? The coach and captain trust me a lot. This helps in one's growth and there is no room for any self-doubt. So, the individual only thinks about his abilities and goes out to perform freely. When a youngster comes into a team, he, or she, always wants to make a mark and impress the captain coach. But if they back and trust your abilities, your work is done. You then tend to enjoy the process. You've been a handy batter at the top or middle order and can also bowl a few vital overs when required. Where do you think Delhi relies on you the most? Talk about your role within the team... It's not like Delhi depends or relies on me in one particular department. I want to contribute in any way possible and in every department. Be it batting, bowling, or fielding. The team management has trusted me in different situations and in varied roles. That is a big confidence booster in itself. I've bowled in powerplays or slog overs. If early wickets have fallen, I often get promoted or sometimes also play the role of a slogger. Overall, whenever and wherever the team needs me, I am there (smiles). ALSO READ | Rohit behind Kuldeep Yadav's comeback, Virat preferred Axar Patel, says DC spinner's childhood coach You've been inspired by Virender Sehwag a lot. What is the one specific aspect that you want to learn after seeing his game? It's not that I want to replicate something from Virender Sehwag. However, I'm a big fan of his. Hope I can also learn to hit the big shots so nonchalantly against the spinners and even pacers as he did. From whatever you've seen and observed in MS Dhoni, Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, what is that one quality that you will pick from the trio and add to your game? Virat Kohli's aggression and energy, MS Dhoni's match-finishing skills and calmness and Rohit Sharma's effortless stroke-making...He hits them with ease and at will. So, I'll want to take all these qualities and add to my game. How has Shane Watson helped you in your batting? Do you talk with him about the different requirements of batting at different positions? Tell us about your interactions with the Aussie... Shane Watson is a legend of the game. With him, he often shares incidents and stories from his playing days -- how he used to approach different situations and how his thought process was during his good and bad days. This is a sport. We all will have more bad days than good ones. So, all these things. Also, he emphasises and talks about the mental aspect of the game.

EXCLUSIVE | Want to pick Kohli's aggression, Dhoni's finishing skills and Rohit's stroke-making: Lalit Yadav

Wriddhiman Saha had dropped a huge bomb in mid-February when he accused a senior journalist of threatening him on text messages, soon after his Test omission. Following India's Test squad announcement for the Sri Lanka home series, Saha revealed that a senior journalist was asking him for an interview and also threatened him after he didn't entertain his messages.

Saha had shared a screenshot of the entire incident (i.e. his Whatsapp chat with the journo), which made heads turn in the Indian sporting fraternity. After much speculation, it was revealed that the journalist was Boria Majumdar. With the text row becoming a big headline and grabbing a lot of attention, BCCI intervened and took the matter into&nbsp;own hands.&nbsp;

After&nbsp;BCCI's apex council&nbsp;reviewed the probe committee's report regarding the Indian wicketkeeper, with regard to the journo's messages, the Indian cricket board has decided to ban Majumdar for two years on Wednesday (May 04).&nbsp;

As per the latest developments, the apex council of the BCCI has agreed with the recommendations of the BCCI Committee. Hence, it has decided to&nbsp;impose&nbsp;the following sanctions:

2 (two) year ban on getting any accreditation as a member of the press in any of the cricket matches (domestic and international) in India.

2 (two) year ban on getting any interview with any registered players in India.

2 (two) year ban on access to any of BCCI and members associations owned cricket facilities.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/boria-majumdar-found-guilty-of-intimidating-wriddhiman-saha-likely-to-face-2-year-ban-from-bcci-report-473424">Boria Majumdar found guilty of intimidating Wriddhiman Saha, likely to face 2-year ban from BCCI - Report</a>

After Saha had shared the Whatsapp chat screenshot on Twitter, many former cricketers such as Ravi Shastri, Aakash Chopra, Virender Sehwag, etc. had slammed the journalist for his intimidation and threatening tone in text. Shastri and Sehwag had also urged Saha to name the journalist before Boria himself admitted it was him. Since then, the news became a hot topic of discussion before BCCI's conclusion came out on Wednesday.

Wriddhiman Saha had dropped a huge bomb in mid-February when he accused a senior journalist of threatening him on text messages, soon after his Test omission. Following India's Test squad announcement for the Sri Lanka home series, Saha revealed that a senior journalist was asking him for an interview and also threatened him after he didn't entertain his messages.

Wriddhiman Saha had dropped a huge bomb in mid-February when he accused a senior journalist of threatening him on text messages, soon after his Test omission. Following India's Test squad announcement for the Sri Lanka home series, Saha revealed that a senior journalist was asking him for an interview and also threatened him after he didn't entertain his messages. Saha had shared a screenshot of the entire incident (i.e. his Whatsapp chat with the journo), which made heads turn in the Indian sporting fraternity. After much speculation, it was revealed that the journalist was Boria Majumdar. With the text row becoming a big headline and grabbing a lot of attention, BCCI intervened and took the matter into own hands. After BCCI's apex council reviewed the probe committee's report regarding the Indian wicketkeeper, with regard to the journo's messages, the Indian cricket board has decided to ban Majumdar for two years on Wednesday (May 04). As per the latest developments, the apex council of the BCCI has agreed with the recommendations of the BCCI Committee. Hence, it has decided to impose the following sanctions: 2 (two) year ban on getting any accreditation as a member of the press in any of the cricket matches (domestic and international) in India. 2 (two) year ban on getting any interview with any registered players in India. 2 (two) year ban on access to any of BCCI and members associations owned cricket facilities. ALSO READ | Boria Majumdar found guilty of intimidating Wriddhiman Saha, likely to face 2-year ban from BCCI - Report After Saha had shared the Whatsapp chat screenshot on Twitter, many former cricketers such as Ravi Shastri, Aakash Chopra, Virender Sehwag, etc. had slammed the journalist for his intimidation and threatening tone in text. Shastri and Sehwag had also urged Saha to name the journalist before Boria himself admitted it was him. Since then, the news became a hot topic of discussion before BCCI's conclusion came out on Wednesday.

Boria Majumdar-Wriddhiman Saha text row: Journalist faces the wrath, banned for two years by BCCI

Liverpool`s Mohamed Salah said he wants to face Real Madrid rather than Manchester City in the Champions League final as the Egyptian forward targets revenge for his team`s 2018 defeat by the Spanish side. 
Salah left the field in tears following a heavy fall under a challenge by Sergio Ramos in Liverpool`s 3-1 defeat by Real in the final of Europe`s elite club competition four years ago.

On Tuesday, Liverpool secured a 5-2 win on aggregate against Villarreal in their semi-final and will discover who they play in the May 28 final later on Wednesday as City face Real. "I want to play Madrid," Salah told BT Sport. "City is a really tough team, we`ve played against them a few times this season. If you ask me personally, I`d prefer Madrid.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/liverpool-fight-back-to-beat-villarreal-3-2-reach-champions-league-final-476257">Liverpool fight back to beat Villarreal 3-2, reach Champions League final</a>

Asked if he wanted revenge against the Spanish side, Salah said: "We lost in the final against them, so I want to play against them and hopefully win it from them as well." Liverpool found themselves 2-0 down at Villarreal but three goals in a 12-minute spell after the break helped them advance to their third Champions League final in five seasons.

Salah hailed the character of Liverpool, who are chasing an unprecedented quadruple of trophies this season. 
"It was tough in the first half but then we went to the dressing room, the gaffer (Juergen Klopp) started talking and we talked to each other as well," Salah said. "That character and personality in the dressing room shows that we are a top team, so that`s why we can strike back after losing 2-0 in the first half playing away."

Liverpool`s Mohamed Salah said he wants to face Real Madrid rather than Manchester City in the Champions League final as the Egyptian forward targets revenge for his team`s 2018 defeat by the Spanish side.

Liverpool`s Mohamed Salah said he wants to face Real Madrid rather than Manchester City in the Champions League final as the Egyptian forward targets revenge for his team`s 2018 defeat by the Spanish side. Salah left the field in tears following a heavy fall under a challenge by Sergio Ramos in Liverpool`s 3-1 defeat by Real in the final of Europe`s elite club competition four years ago. On Tuesday, Liverpool secured a 5-2 win on aggregate against Villarreal in their semi-final and will discover who they play in the May 28 final later on Wednesday as City face Real. "I want to play Madrid," Salah told BT Sport. "City is a really tough team, we`ve played against them a few times this season. If you ask me personally, I`d prefer Madrid. ALSO READ | Liverpool fight back to beat Villarreal 3-2, reach Champions League final Asked if he wanted revenge against the Spanish side, Salah said: "We lost in the final against them, so I want to play against them and hopefully win it from them as well." Liverpool found themselves 2-0 down at Villarreal but three goals in a 12-minute spell after the break helped them advance to their third Champions League final in five seasons. Salah hailed the character of Liverpool, who are chasing an unprecedented quadruple of trophies this season. "It was tough in the first half but then we went to the dressing room, the gaffer (Juergen Klopp) started talking and we talked to each other as well," Salah said. "That character and personality in the dressing room shows that we are a top team, so that`s why we can strike back after losing 2-0 in the first half playing away."

Liverpool striker Mohamed Salah wants Real Madrid revenge in Champions League final

Great Britain`s Andy Murray, who returned to clay for the first time in nearly two years, defeated Dominic Thiem of Austria 6-3, 6-4 to secure a Round-of-32 clash against Denis Shapovalov at the Madrid Open here. 
&nbsp;Murray was ranked world No. 1 in the ATP Rankings when he last took the court at the Madrid Open in 2017 and his performance against the Austrian on Monday night belied his current world ranking of No. 78. 
 
It was the two-time Madrid champion`s first victory on the surface since the 2017 French Open quarterfinals when he beat Kei Nishikori of Japan. "I enjoyed it. I prepared really hard before coming here," said Murray to atptour.com. The three-time Grand Slam champion was initially planning to skip this year`s clay swing before accepting a wild card into the Spanish ATP Masters 1000 event. 
 
"I worked hard and really wanted to go out and put a good performance out there. I feel like I did that. When I played a couple of years ago on the clay, I was struggling a little bit with my groin. My body felt really good in the last few weeks and tonight I felt like I moved well and I played a really good match," added Murray. 
 
Murray, who has undergone a hip surgery, last played a clay-court game at Roland Garros in 2020. He had initially planned to continue his break from clay and compete in hard-court ATP Challenger Tour events during the European clay swing. But when the events got cancelled, he changed his plan.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-no-1-novak-djokovic-hopeful-of-things-progressing-in-right-direction-at-madrid-open-2022-475783">World No. 1 Novak Djokovic hopeful of things progressing in 'right direction' at Madrid Open 2022</a>

Murray showed few signs of rust as he dished out a dominant display. Thiem, still seeking the first win of his comeback from a right-wrist injury, was only brilliant in patches. 
 
"It`s extremely difficult," Murray said of Thiem`s comeback in the second set. "He obviously had the injury initially and has also had some setbacks along the way. Mentally, it will take time to feel confident, totally accelerating on the ball. I had a wrist injury when I was 20 years old and it was very difficult. It took me time before I started to feel comfortable on the forehand side again. 
 
"He uses his wrist a lot when he plays. He plays with heavy topspin. It`s obviously going to take him time, but he can still hit the ball great. He`s serving well, moving well. It`s just going to take time," added Murray. 
 
Murray next faces 14th seed Denis Shapovalov of Canada, who got past lucky loser Ugo Humbert of France, 7-6(1), 6-3. The 23-year-old Shapovalov won his only previous meeting with Murray in straight sets one year ago in the Wimbledon third round.

Great Britain`s Andy Murray, who returned to clay for the first time in nearly two years, defeated Dominic Thiem of Austria 6-3, 6-4 to secure a Round-of-32 clash against Denis Shapovalov at the Madrid Open here.

Great Britain`s Andy Murray, who returned to clay for the first time in nearly two years, defeated Dominic Thiem of Austria 6-3, 6-4 to secure a Round-of-32 clash against Denis Shapovalov at the Madrid Open here. Murray was ranked world No. 1 in the ATP Rankings when he last took the court at the Madrid Open in 2017 and his performance against the Austrian on Monday night belied his current world ranking of No. 78. It was the two-time Madrid champion`s first victory on the surface since the 2017 French Open quarterfinals when he beat Kei Nishikori of Japan. "I enjoyed it. I prepared really hard before coming here," said Murray to atptour.com. The three-time Grand Slam champion was initially planning to skip this year`s clay swing before accepting a wild card into the Spanish ATP Masters 1000 event. "I worked hard and really wanted to go out and put a good performance out there. I feel like I did that. When I played a couple of years ago on the clay, I was struggling a little bit with my groin. My body felt really good in the last few weeks and tonight I felt like I moved well and I played a really good match," added Murray. Murray, who has undergone a hip surgery, last played a clay-court game at Roland Garros in 2020. He had initially planned to continue his break from clay and compete in hard-court ATP Challenger Tour events during the European clay swing. But when the events got cancelled, he changed his plan. ALSO READ | World No. 1 Novak Djokovic hopeful of things progressing in 'right direction' at Madrid Open 2022 Murray showed few signs of rust as he dished out a dominant display. Thiem, still seeking the first win of his comeback from a right-wrist injury, was only brilliant in patches. "It`s extremely difficult," Murray said of Thiem`s comeback in the second set. "He obviously had the injury initially and has also had some setbacks along the way. Mentally, it will take time to feel confident, totally accelerating on the ball. I had a wrist injury when I was 20 years old and it was very difficult. It took me time before I started to feel comfortable on the forehand side again. "He uses his wrist a lot when he plays. He plays with heavy topspin. It`s obviously going to take him time, but he can still hit the ball great. He`s serving well, moving well. It`s just going to take time," added Murray. Murray next faces 14th seed Denis Shapovalov of Canada, who got past lucky loser Ugo Humbert of France, 7-6(1), 6-3. The 23-year-old Shapovalov won his only previous meeting with Murray in straight sets one year ago in the Wimbledon third round.

Madrid Open: Andy Murray triumphs over Dominic Thiem to attain first clay-court challenge in two years

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