Holders Chelsea made light of their off-pitch problems to reach the Champions League quarter-finals by beating Lille 2-1 away on Wednesday to complete a 4-1 aggregate victory.

The Premier League side, playing amid sanctions imposed on their Russian owner Roman Abramovich following Russia's invasion of Ukraine, eased through thanks to goals by Christian Pulisic and Cesar Azpilicueta. 
 
French champions Lille dominated for long spells and opened the scoring thanks to a Burak Yilmaz penalty in the opening half, but lacked precision upfront and paid dearly for lapses in concentration.

Chelsea, operating on a special licence from the British government that has limited their spending and impacted their operations, showed great composure to ease into the last eight.

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"Everyone is calm at the club. The club's culture is about football. Football is the priority at Chelsea, that's why we're focused on what happens on the pitch," Chelsea coach Thomas Tuchel told French TV channel RMC Sport.

At their Pierre Mauroy stadium, Lille had made the better start to the match.

Jocelyn Gouvennec's side put Chelsea on the back foot as Mateo Kovacic, Jorginho and N'Golo Kante struggled to take control of the midfield.

Lille were rewarded in the 38th minute when they were awarded a penalty following a VAR review after a Jorginho handball in the area.

The 36-year-old Yilmaz, the third oldest scorer in the Champions League knockout stages after Paolo Maldini and Ryan Giggs, buried the spot-kick into the top corner to give the hosts a deserved lead and high hopes of an upset after losing the first leg 2-0 at Stamford Bridge.

Lille, who had not conceded a goal in their three Ligue 1 games since the first leg, let their guard down, however, and Chelsea punished them with their first shot on target as Pulisic collected a fine through ball from Jorginho to score with a low shot three minutes into first-half stoppage time.

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Although they were hit by injuries which forced Sven Botman and Zeki Celik to leave the pitch, Lille applied more pressure after the break and Yilmaz wasted two clear chances.

Chelsea were far more ruthless and after 71 minutes Mason Mount's cross bounced off Azpilicueta's knee into the top corner to end Lille's hopes of reaching the last eight.

The result left Lille frustrated after a good performance that ended in defeat.

"I'm frustrated by the result, and by the fact that we missed out on qualification," said midfielder Amadou Onana. 
 
"Congratulations to Chelsea, they were the better team."

Holders Chelsea made light of their off-pitch problems to reach the Champions League quarter-finals by beating Lille 2-1 away on Wednesday to complete a 4-1 aggregate victory.

Holders Chelsea made light of their off-pitch problems to reach the Champions League quarter-finals by beating Lille 2-1 away on Wednesday to complete a 4-1 aggregate victory. The Premier League side, playing amid sanctions imposed on their Russian owner Roman Abramovich following Russia's invasion of Ukraine, eased through thanks to goals by Christian Pulisic and Cesar Azpilicueta. French champions Lille dominated for long spells and opened the scoring thanks to a Burak Yilmaz penalty in the opening half, but lacked precision upfront and paid dearly for lapses in concentration. Chelsea, operating on a special licence from the British government that has limited their spending and impacted their operations, showed great composure to ease into the last eight. ALSO READ: Champions League: Villarreal knock Juventus out with 3-0 victory to enter quarter-finals "Everyone is calm at the club. The club's culture is about football. Football is the priority at Chelsea, that's why we're focused on what happens on the pitch," Chelsea coach Thomas Tuchel told French TV channel RMC Sport. At their Pierre Mauroy stadium, Lille had made the better start to the match. Jocelyn Gouvennec's side put Chelsea on the back foot as Mateo Kovacic, Jorginho and N'Golo Kante struggled to take control of the midfield. Lille were rewarded in the 38th minute when they were awarded a penalty following a VAR review after a Jorginho handball in the area. The 36-year-old Yilmaz, the third oldest scorer in the Champions League knockout stages after Paolo Maldini and Ryan Giggs, buried the spot-kick into the top corner to give the hosts a deserved lead and high hopes of an upset after losing the first leg 2-0 at Stamford Bridge. Lille, who had not conceded a goal in their three Ligue 1 games since the first leg, let their guard down, however, and Chelsea punished them with their first shot on target as Pulisic collected a fine through ball from Jorginho to score with a low shot three minutes into first-half stoppage time. ALSO READ: ISL: Kerala edge past League Shield winner Jamshedpur 2-1 over two legs to book first final berth since 2016 Although they were hit by injuries which forced Sven Botman and Zeki Celik to leave the pitch, Lille applied more pressure after the break and Yilmaz wasted two clear chances. Chelsea were far more ruthless and after 71 minutes Mason Mount's cross bounced off Azpilicueta's knee into the top corner to end Lille's hopes of reaching the last eight. The result left Lille frustrated after a good performance that ended in defeat. "I'm frustrated by the result, and by the fact that we missed out on qualification," said midfielder Amadou Onana. "Congratulations to Chelsea, they were the better team."

Champions League: Christian Pulisic, Cesar Azpilicueta score as Chelsea ease past Lille to enter quater-finals

Legendary F1 racer Michael Schumacher, former Tennis star Maria Sharapova and 11 others were booked for fraud and criminal conspiracy by the police in the northern city of Gurugram in India after a court order. The international sportspersons were named following an FIR registered in the local police station by a woman who accused them of fraud in relation to an apartment construction project.

The FIR was filed by Shafali Agarwal, a resident of Chattarpur Mini Farm in New Delhi. In the complaint, she said that she booked an apartment in a project named after Sharapova and in that project, a tower was named after Schumacher.

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According to the FIR, the project was supposed to be completed by 2016 but it never took off. As a result, Agarwal decided to lodge a complaint and she accused the celebrities of being privy to the fraud through the promotion of the project.

"We came to know about the project through advertisements and reached out to the company management after pictures of the project and a lot of false promises were made," she said in the complaint.

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It was further alleged that Sharapova had visited the site and promised the opening of a tennis academy and sports store. "It was mentioned in the brochure that she is promoting the project, and she also made false promises, had dinner parties with the buyers, and all this was done for the project, which never took off," read the complaint.

The FIR was registered under Sections 34 (common intention), 120-B (criminal conspiracy), 406 (criminal breach of trust) and 420 (cheating) of the IPC at the Badshahpur police station.

(With inputs from agencies)

Legendary F1 racer Michael Schumacher, former Tennis star Maria Sharapova and 11 others were booked for fraud and criminal conspiracy by the police in the northern city of Gurugram in India after a court order.

Legendary F1 racer Michael Schumacher, former Tennis star Maria Sharapova and 11 others were booked for fraud and criminal conspiracy by the police in the northern city of Gurugram in India after a court order. The international sportspersons were named following an FIR registered in the local police station by a woman who accused them of fraud in relation to an apartment construction project. The FIR was filed by Shafali Agarwal, a resident of Chattarpur Mini Farm in New Delhi. In the complaint, she said that she booked an apartment in a project named after Sharapova and in that project, a tower was named after Schumacher. Also read | Everything we know about the new COVID-19 variant found in Israel According to the FIR, the project was supposed to be completed by 2016 but it never took off. As a result, Agarwal decided to lodge a complaint and she accused the celebrities of being privy to the fraud through the promotion of the project. "We came to know about the project through advertisements and reached out to the company management after pictures of the project and a lot of false promises were made," she said in the complaint. Also read | James Webb Space Telescope captures test image of star and ancient galaxies It was further alleged that Sharapova had visited the site and promised the opening of a tennis academy and sports store. "It was mentioned in the brochure that she is promoting the project, and she also made false promises, had dinner parties with the buyers, and all this was done for the project, which never took off," read the complaint. The FIR was registered under Sections 34 (common intention), 120-B (criminal conspiracy), 406 (criminal breach of trust) and 420 (cheating) of the IPC at the Badshahpur police station. (With inputs from agencies)

Michael Schumacher and Maria Sharapova booked by Indian local police for fraud

Despite their 0-1 loss to ATK Mohun Bagan in the second leg of the Hero Indian Super League semifinal, Hyderabad FC made history by qualifying for the final with a 3-2 victory on aggregate over two legs at the Athletic Stadium, here on Wednesday.

Roy Krishna scored in the 79th minute to give ATKMB a glimmer of hope and make for an end-to-end last ten minutes but in the end, it was not enough for the finalists of last season as the men in yellow booked a final date with Kerala Blasters at the PJN Stadium in Fatorda on Sunday.

In the first leg, Bartholomew Ogbeche, Yasir Mohammad and Javier Siverio netted for Hyderabad. 
 
Hyderabad head coach Manolo Marquez played the same team that won the first leg 3-1 while Juan Ferrando made a few changes to the ATKMB side from the last game with the ever-dependable centre-back Tiri being a forced one as he picked up an injury in the last game. Kiyan Nassiri -- who scored a memorable hat-trick in the Kolkata derby earlier this season -- got a start.

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ATKMB looked the likelier of the two teams to nod ahead in the opening exchanges, the Mariners needing two goals at least to make a comeback. 
 
Liston Colaco was proving to be a handful for the Hyderabad defenders as he time and again put Nim Dorjee Tamang to the sword with his jinking runs.

Colaco's industry could have paid dividends soon but the local boy curled his effort just wide of target after dribbling past a few Hyderabad shirts inside the box. Colaco then tried to set up Krishna with a similar run and delivery inside the box but Yasir Mohammad did well to keep the Fijian striker at bay. 
 
There was no stopping Colaco as he shimmied past a few defenders post the drinks break and took a swipe at goal only for Laxmikant Kattimani to pull off a stunning save with his outstretched leg.

At the other end, Aniket Jadhav spurned a gilt-edged chance to make it 4-1 on aggregate for Hyderabad from a Yasir ball, nodding a free header from five yards, wide.

The best chance of the half, though, fell to Hugo Boumous who could not stab home from handshaking distance after a pin-point Prabir Das cross set him up perfectly, the French-Moroccan sliding in to get a touch on the ball as well but only dragging his effort wide.

Just before halftime, Joni Kauko shot wide, to sum up ATKMB's half of missed opportunities. 
 
Hyderabad suffered a blow early on in the second half when Sauvik Chakrabarti had to come off due to an injury, Sahil Tavora replacing the midfielder.

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ATKMB kept piling on one attack after another as Hyderabad sat back and defended deep. Ferrando took off Sandesh Jhingan and threw in Manvir Singh, going all out in search of goals.

There were huge appeals for a penalty when Joni Kauko was brought down by Akash Mishra but replays showed he was tackled just outside the box. 
 
The goal came from a likely source for ATKMB as Colaco showed his magic again down the left flank, bursting down that side to cross from the byline at the far post where Krishna was on hand to slam home from close. 
 
ATKMB threw in the towel in the last ten minutes but it proved to be too tall an order for them in the end as they succumbed to a semifinal exit.

Despite their 0-1 loss to ATK Mohun Bagan in the second leg of the Hero Indian Super League semifinal, Hyderabad FC made history by qualifying for the final with a 3-2 victory on aggregate over two legs at the Athletic Stadium, here on Wednesday.

Despite their 0-1 loss to ATK Mohun Bagan in the second leg of the Hero Indian Super League semifinal, Hyderabad FC made history by qualifying for the final with a 3-2 victory on aggregate over two legs at the Athletic Stadium, here on Wednesday. Roy Krishna scored in the 79th minute to give ATKMB a glimmer of hope and make for an end-to-end last ten minutes but in the end, it was not enough for the finalists of last season as the men in yellow booked a final date with Kerala Blasters at the PJN Stadium in Fatorda on Sunday. In the first leg, Bartholomew Ogbeche, Yasir Mohammad and Javier Siverio netted for Hyderabad. Hyderabad head coach Manolo Marquez played the same team that won the first leg 3-1 while Juan Ferrando made a few changes to the ATKMB side from the last game with the ever-dependable centre-back Tiri being a forced one as he picked up an injury in the last game. Kiyan Nassiri -- who scored a memorable hat-trick in the Kolkata derby earlier this season -- got a start. ALSO READ: Champions League: Villarreal knock Juventus out with 3-0 victory to enter quarter-finals ATKMB looked the likelier of the two teams to nod ahead in the opening exchanges, the Mariners needing two goals at least to make a comeback. Liston Colaco was proving to be a handful for the Hyderabad defenders as he time and again put Nim Dorjee Tamang to the sword with his jinking runs. Colaco's industry could have paid dividends soon but the local boy curled his effort just wide of target after dribbling past a few Hyderabad shirts inside the box. Colaco then tried to set up Krishna with a similar run and delivery inside the box but Yasir Mohammad did well to keep the Fijian striker at bay. There was no stopping Colaco as he shimmied past a few defenders post the drinks break and took a swipe at goal only for Laxmikant Kattimani to pull off a stunning save with his outstretched leg. At the other end, Aniket Jadhav spurned a gilt-edged chance to make it 4-1 on aggregate for Hyderabad from a Yasir ball, nodding a free header from five yards, wide. The best chance of the half, though, fell to Hugo Boumous who could not stab home from handshaking distance after a pin-point Prabir Das cross set him up perfectly, the French-Moroccan sliding in to get a touch on the ball as well but only dragging his effort wide. Just before halftime, Joni Kauko shot wide, to sum up ATKMB's half of missed opportunities. Hyderabad suffered a blow early on in the second half when Sauvik Chakrabarti had to come off due to an injury, Sahil Tavora replacing the midfielder. ALSO READ: Real Madrid to donate one million euros to help displaced in Ukraine amid Russia's invasion ATKMB kept piling on one attack after another as Hyderabad sat back and defended deep. Ferrando took off Sandesh Jhingan and threw in Manvir Singh, going all out in search of goals. There were huge appeals for a penalty when Joni Kauko was brought down by Akash Mishra but replays showed he was tackled just outside the box. The goal came from a likely source for ATKMB as Colaco showed his magic again down the left flank, bursting down that side to cross from the byline at the far post where Krishna was on hand to slam home from close. ATKMB threw in the towel in the last ten minutes but it proved to be too tall an order for them in the end as they succumbed to a semifinal exit.

ISL: Hyderabad book final date against Kerala with 3-2 aggregate win over ATK Mohun Bagan

Villarreal scored three late goals to secure a stunning 3-0 Champions League second-leg victory at Juventus on Wednesday, condemning the Serie A side to a 4-1 aggregate loss and a last-16 exit for the third successive season.

Having fallen before the quarter-finals against Olympique Lyonnais and Porto in the previous two seasons, in-form Juventus, who had lost just once in their last 21 matches in all competitions, were firm favourites to progress.

Juve dominated the first half and were unfortunate not to go into the break in front after Dusan Vlahovic's brilliant flicked effort came back off the crossbar, but they could not keep up the pressure in the second period.

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Villarreal were content to sit back and wait for their moment, which came in the 78th minute after the visitors were awarded a penalty following a VAR review, with substitute Gerard Moreno, who had only just come on, squeezing the spot kick home.

Juve threw on Argentine striker Paulo Dybala as they looked to level the tie, but goals down the other end from defender Pau Torres and another penalty, this time converted by Arnaut Danjuma, completed a famous win for Unai Emery's team.

It is the first time Emery has progressed from a tie in the knockout stages of the Champions League, while Villarreal had not qualified for the quarter-finals of the competition since 2008-09.

"I actually missed the last penalty I took in a game, but everyone had my back and I knew I was going to score," Moreno said.

"Once we got ahead we were more comfortable. We showed that we are always able to compete with the best at the highest level, whoever is on the pitch."

Juventus came into the last 16 having also enjoyed an impressive group-stage campaign where they finished top ahead of the current holders Chelsea.

A blistering start saw Spanish striker Alvaro Morata denied by a fine save from Villarreal goalkeeper Geronimo Rulli, giving the home fans hope that progression to the last eight would be a smooth process.

January signing Vlahovic was proving to be a real handful, drilling wide before his improvised effort came out off the woodwork.

Villarreal were enjoying plenty of possession, but could not do much with it. They looked more comfortable after the break, however, as Juve struggled to keep up their momentum.

Daniele Rugani's lunging tackle on Francis Coquelin gave Villarreal the chance to lead the tie for the first time.

Juve keeper Wojciech Szczesny, who saved a penalty at the weekend, almost kept out the spot kick, but saw the ball squirm through his hands.

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Torres's finish from a corner sparked wild scenes of celebration with Villarreal knowing the job was done, even though there was still time for another converted penalty, after Matthijs de Ligt’s handball.

Having dominated for such long periods, only Juve will know how they managed to lose by three goals.

"I think the team played well for over 75 minutes," Juve coach Massimiliano Allegri said. "In the second half, Villarreal decided to just defend in block but they had one chance and they took it.

"We had good chances in the first half, fewer in the second because Villarreal started defending with 11 men, clearly trying to bring the game to extra time. Then that (opening) goal changed everything."

Villarreal scored three late goals to secure a stunning 3-0 Champions League second-leg victory at Juventus on Wednesday, condemning the Serie A side to a 4-1 aggregate loss and a last-16 exit for the third successive season.

Villarreal scored three late goals to secure a stunning 3-0 Champions League second-leg victory at Juventus on Wednesday, condemning the Serie A side to a 4-1 aggregate loss and a last-16 exit for the third successive season. Having fallen before the quarter-finals against Olympique Lyonnais and Porto in the previous two seasons, in-form Juventus, who had lost just once in their last 21 matches in all competitions, were firm favourites to progress. Juve dominated the first half and were unfortunate not to go into the break in front after Dusan Vlahovic's brilliant flicked effort came back off the crossbar, but they could not keep up the pressure in the second period. ALSO READ: Chicago Cubs owners team up with Citadel founder Ken Griffin to bid for Chelsea Football Club Villarreal were content to sit back and wait for their moment, which came in the 78th minute after the visitors were awarded a penalty following a VAR review, with substitute Gerard Moreno, who had only just come on, squeezing the spot kick home. Juve threw on Argentine striker Paulo Dybala as they looked to level the tie, but goals down the other end from defender Pau Torres and another penalty, this time converted by Arnaut Danjuma, completed a famous win for Unai Emery's team. It is the first time Emery has progressed from a tie in the knockout stages of the Champions League, while Villarreal had not qualified for the quarter-finals of the competition since 2008-09. "I actually missed the last penalty I took in a game, but everyone had my back and I knew I was going to score," Moreno said. "Once we got ahead we were more comfortable. We showed that we are always able to compete with the best at the highest level, whoever is on the pitch." Juventus came into the last 16 having also enjoyed an impressive group-stage campaign where they finished top ahead of the current holders Chelsea. A blistering start saw Spanish striker Alvaro Morata denied by a fine save from Villarreal goalkeeper Geronimo Rulli, giving the home fans hope that progression to the last eight would be a smooth process. January signing Vlahovic was proving to be a real handful, drilling wide before his improvised effort came out off the woodwork. Villarreal were enjoying plenty of possession, but could not do much with it. They looked more comfortable after the break, however, as Juve struggled to keep up their momentum. Daniele Rugani's lunging tackle on Francis Coquelin gave Villarreal the chance to lead the tie for the first time. Juve keeper Wojciech Szczesny, who saved a penalty at the weekend, almost kept out the spot kick, but saw the ball squirm through his hands. ALSO READ: Real Madrid to donate one million euros to help displaced in Ukraine amid Russia's invasion Torres's finish from a corner sparked wild scenes of celebration with Villarreal knowing the job was done, even though there was still time for another converted penalty, after Matthijs de Ligt’s handball. Having dominated for such long periods, only Juve will know how they managed to lose by three goals. "I think the team played well for over 75 minutes," Juve coach Massimiliano Allegri said. "In the second half, Villarreal decided to just defend in block but they had one chance and they took it. "We had good chances in the first half, fewer in the second because Villarreal started defending with 11 men, clearly trying to bring the game to extra time. Then that (opening) goal changed everything."

Champions League: Villarreal knock Juventus out with 3-0 victory to enter quarter-finals

The World No. 26 Simona Halep advanced into the semifinal with a 6-1, 6-1 victory over the 24th seed Croatia's Petra Martic, while Iga Swiatek also advanced in style dismantling Madison Keys of America here at the Indian Wells on Wednesday.

Former World No.1 Halep, became this year's first semifinalist at Indian Wells. The two-time Grand Slam champion Halep took less than an hour to breeze past Petra Martic and secured a semifinal clash with Iga Swiatek of Poland.

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Third seed Iga Swiatek won her ninth consecutive match at WTA 1000 events with a 6-1, 6-0 victory over 25th seed Madison Keys of the United States in the quarterfinals.

Swiatek dominated her opponent with heavy groundstrokes forcing errors from big-hitting Keys. Simona Halep will face Iga Swiatek in the Indian Wells semi-finals on Friday.

The World No. 26 Simona Halep advanced into the semifinal with a 6-1, 6-1 victory over the 24th seed Croatia's Petra Martic, while Iga Swiatek also advanced in style dismantling Madison Keys of America here at the Indian Wells on Wednesday.

The World No. 26 Simona Halep advanced into the semifinal with a 6-1, 6-1 victory over the 24th seed Croatia's Petra Martic, while Iga Swiatek also advanced in style dismantling Madison Keys of America here at the Indian Wells on Wednesday. Former World No.1 Halep, became this year's first semifinalist at Indian Wells. The two-time Grand Slam champion Halep took less than an hour to breeze past Petra Martic and secured a semifinal clash with Iga Swiatek of Poland. ALSO READ: Olympic medallist Aliaksandra Herasimenia, who fled Belarus, forced into exile again as Ukraine attacked Third seed Iga Swiatek won her ninth consecutive match at WTA 1000 events with a 6-1, 6-0 victory over 25th seed Madison Keys of the United States in the quarterfinals. Swiatek dominated her opponent with heavy groundstrokes forcing errors from big-hitting Keys. Simona Halep will face Iga Swiatek in the Indian Wells semi-finals on Friday.

Indian Wells: Simona Halep registers clinical win over Petra Martic, Iga Swiatek storms into semifinal

Babar Azam's 196 stood tall as Pakistan fought hard to achieve a draw in the second and penultimate Test versus Australia at the National Stadium, Karachi on Wednesday (March 16). After conceding a whopping 408-run lead in the first innings, hosts Pakistan had a herculean task to weather the storm when they came out to bat in pursuit of a mammoth 506-run target set up by Pat Cummins &amp; Co.

On Day 4, Pakistan went to stumps at 192-2, with skipper Babar surpassing the triple-figure mark. On the final day, he led the charge once again -- despite losing opener&nbsp;Abdullah Shafique (96) -- with wicketkeeper-batsman and vice-captain Mohammad Rizwan (104 not out) as the home side managed to reach 443-7 when the match ended in a riveting draw.

Following Babar's stellar innings, where he became the first Pakistani batter to face&nbsp;400-plus deliveries in the fourth innings, former England captain Michael Vaughan lavished huge praise on the right-hander. Vaughan, who remains vocal on various aspects of the gentlemen's game, took to his official Twitter handle and lauded Babar.

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“Without question I think @babarazam258 is the best all round Batter in the World right now .. Brilliant across all the formats .. #PAKvAUS ..”, Vaughan tweeted.

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Without question I think <a href="https://twitter.com/babarazam258?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@babarazam258</a> is the best all round Batter in the World right now .. Brilliant across all the formats .. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PAKvAUS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PAKvAUS</a> ..
— Michael Vaughan (@MichaelVaughan) <a href="https://twitter.com/MichaelVaughan/status/1504088162276155394?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 16, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Thus, this surely is a big compliment for Babar, who as per Vaughan is currently above the likes of Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, Steve Smith, Kane Williamson, etc. in the modern era.

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For the unversed, Babar now also has the highest score by&nbsp;a captain in the fourth innings of a Test match following his 196-run knock, studded with 21 fours and a six. He displayed great determination, patience, composure and solid technique to keep the Aussie bowlers at bay and single-handedly lead the show for his side.

The third and final Test will now commence on March 21&nbsp;at the Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore with the series currently levelled at 0-0.

Babar Azam's 196 stood tall as Pakistan fought hard to achieve a draw in the second and penultimate Test versus Australia at the National Stadium, Karachi on Wednesday (March 16).

Babar Azam's 196 stood tall as Pakistan fought hard to achieve a draw in the second and penultimate Test versus Australia at the National Stadium, Karachi on Wednesday (March 16). After conceding a whopping 408-run lead in the first innings, hosts Pakistan had a herculean task to weather the storm when they came out to bat in pursuit of a mammoth 506-run target set up by Pat Cummins & Co. On Day 4, Pakistan went to stumps at 192-2, with skipper Babar surpassing the triple-figure mark. On the final day, he led the charge once again -- despite losing opener Abdullah Shafique (96) -- with wicketkeeper-batsman and vice-captain Mohammad Rizwan (104 not out) as the home side managed to reach 443-7 when the match ended in a riveting draw. Following Babar's stellar innings, where he became the first Pakistani batter to face 400-plus deliveries in the fourth innings, former England captain Michael Vaughan lavished huge praise on the right-hander. Vaughan, who remains vocal on various aspects of the gentlemen's game, took to his official Twitter handle and lauded Babar. ALSO READ | Babar Azam-led Pakistan become second team to achieve historic feat after drawn Test vs Australia “Without question I think @babarazam258 is the best all round Batter in the World right now .. Brilliant across all the formats .. #PAKvAUS ..”, Vaughan tweeted. Without question I think @babarazam258 is the best all round Batter in the World right now .. Brilliant across all the formats .. #PAKvAUS .. — Michael Vaughan (@MichaelVaughan) March 16, 2022 × Thus, this surely is a big compliment for Babar, who as per Vaughan is currently above the likes of Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, Steve Smith, Kane Williamson, etc. in the modern era. ALSO READ | Babar Azam scripts history, achieves elite feat during marathon 196-run knock in 2nd Test vs Australia For the unversed, Babar now also has the highest score by a captain in the fourth innings of a Test match following his 196-run knock, studded with 21 fours and a six. He displayed great determination, patience, composure and solid technique to keep the Aussie bowlers at bay and single-handedly lead the show for his side. The third and final Test will now commence on March 21 at the Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore with the series currently levelled at 0-0.

Best all-round batter in the world: Vaughan lavishes huge praise on Pakistan captain after 2nd Test vs AUS

Babar Azam's 196 and Mohammad Rizwan's 104* helped Pakistan prevent Australia from registering a&nbsp;memorable win&nbsp;in the second and penultimate Test at the National Stadium, Karachi on Wednesday (March 16). Babar's century had set up the match at stumps on Day 4, with Pakistan 192-2 in pursuit of a mammoth 506-run target.

Babar carried on from where he had left, on the penultimate day, when he came out to bat on Day Five. The right-hander showed grit, character, class and patience to take his side to a hard-earned draw with an impressive and career-best 196-run knock. While he fell with in excess of 12 overs to go in the day's play, Md Rizwan rescued the hosts and denied Pat Cummins &amp; Co. from taking a 1-0 lead.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/will-r-ashwin-go-past-anil-kumbles-test-wicket-tally-sunil-gavaskar-answers-the-big-question-462910">Will R Ashwin go past Anil Kumble's Test wicket-tally? Sunil Gavaskar answers the big question</a>

Such was Babar's innings that his knock was studded with 21 fours and a six, playing as many as 425&nbsp;deliveries. Thus, he became the first Pakistani batter to play 400-plus deliveries in the fourth innings along with achieving another&nbsp;huge feat. Courtesy his 196, Babar now has the highest score&nbsp;by a captain in the fourth innings of a Test match. He surpassed England's Michael Artherton's 185, versus South Africa in 1995, to attain the historic record. Before him, Younis Khan held the record for the highest score by a Pakistan skipper in the final innings (107 versus India in 2007).

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/babar-azam-md-rizwans-heroics-helps-pakistan-draw-2nd-test-against-australia-in-karachi-462915">Babar Azam, Md Rizwan's heroics helps Pakistan draw 2nd Test against Australia in Karachi</a>

After the epic Test between Pakistan and Australia, Babar said at the post-match presentation, "The plan was to bat session-by-session and build partnerships. It was a team effort, as others (Shafique and Rizwan) chipped in with useful contributions too. We took the onus and the main focus was to build partnerships right throughout the day. Rizwan was outstanding as he saved the Test for us eventually. We wanted to continue to bat in the same way (after the tea break) and we tried to be positive and play our shots. The team needed this knock, so I tried to bat for as long as I could."

Talking about the second Test, Australia opted to bat first and post 556-9 decl. riding on Marnus Labuschagne's 160. In reply, Pakistan fell flat for 148 all-out before the Aussies set a humongous 506-run target for the hosts. At stumps on Day 5, Pakistan survived with the scoreboard reading 443-7.&nbsp;

Babar Azam's 196 and Mohammad Rizwan's 104* helped Pakistan prevent Australia from registering a memorable win in the second and penultimate Test at the National Stadium, Karachi on Wednesday (March 16).

Babar Azam's 196 and Mohammad Rizwan's 104* helped Pakistan prevent Australia from registering a memorable win in the second and penultimate Test at the National Stadium, Karachi on Wednesday (March 16). Babar's century had set up the match at stumps on Day 4, with Pakistan 192-2 in pursuit of a mammoth 506-run target. Babar carried on from where he had left, on the penultimate day, when he came out to bat on Day Five. The right-hander showed grit, character, class and patience to take his side to a hard-earned draw with an impressive and career-best 196-run knock. While he fell with in excess of 12 overs to go in the day's play, Md Rizwan rescued the hosts and denied Pat Cummins & Co. from taking a 1-0 lead. ALSO READ | Will R Ashwin go past Anil Kumble's Test wicket-tally? Sunil Gavaskar answers the big question Such was Babar's innings that his knock was studded with 21 fours and a six, playing as many as 425 deliveries. Thus, he became the first Pakistani batter to play 400-plus deliveries in the fourth innings along with achieving another huge feat. Courtesy his 196, Babar now has the highest score by a captain in the fourth innings of a Test match. He surpassed England's Michael Artherton's 185, versus South Africa in 1995, to attain the historic record. Before him, Younis Khan held the record for the highest score by a Pakistan skipper in the final innings (107 versus India in 2007). ALSO READ | Babar Azam, Md Rizwan's heroics helps Pakistan draw 2nd Test against Australia in Karachi After the epic Test between Pakistan and Australia, Babar said at the post-match presentation, "The plan was to bat session-by-session and build partnerships. It was a team effort, as others (Shafique and Rizwan) chipped in with useful contributions too. We took the onus and the main focus was to build partnerships right throughout the day. Rizwan was outstanding as he saved the Test for us eventually. We wanted to continue to bat in the same way (after the tea break) and we tried to be positive and play our shots. The team needed this knock, so I tried to bat for as long as I could." Talking about the second Test, Australia opted to bat first and post 556-9 decl. riding on Marnus Labuschagne's 160. In reply, Pakistan fell flat for 148 all-out before the Aussies set a humongous 506-run target for the hosts. At stumps on Day 5, Pakistan survived with the scoreboard reading 443-7.

Babar Azam scripts history, achieves elite feat during marathon 196-run knock in 2nd Test vs Australia

The owners of U.S. baseball team the Chicago Cubs have teamed up with Citadel founder Ken Griffin to work on a bid to buy English Premier League soccer club Chelsea, a spokesperson for Griffin confirmed to Reuters on Wednesday.

The Cubs'&nbsp;owners, the Ricketts family, and Griffin have formed an investment group which is set to make a formal offer for the London club on Friday.

Reuters has been told the bid does not involve Citadel, the hedge fund business, only Griffin.

The Ricketts family said they would be leading the investment group that will make the bid.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/real-madrid-to-donate-one-million-euros-to-help-displaced-in-ukraine-amid-russias-invasion-462889">Real Madrid to donate one million euros to help displaced in Ukraine amid Russia's invasion</a>

"As long-time operators of an iconic professional sports team, the Ricketts Family and their partners understand the importance of investing for success on the pitch, while respecting the traditions of the club, the fans and the community," the Ricketts family investor group said in a statement reported by the BBC.

Chelsea were initially put up for sale by its owner Roman Abramovich following Russia`s invasion of Ukraine before sanctions were imposed on the Russian oligarch by the British government.

The European champions are currently operating under a special licence and are now effectively controlled by the British government.

Abramovich bought the club in 2003 for a reported 140 million pounds ($183.16 million). He had funded Chelsea via 1.5 billion pounds in total loans through Fordstam Limited, the entity through which he owns the club.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/atletico-madrid-win-at-old-trafford-to-knock-out-cristiano-ronaldo-starrer-manchester-united-462773">Atletico Madrid win at Old Trafford to knock out Cristiano Ronaldo-starrer Manchester United</a>

His investment resulted in the most successful era in their history as they won five Premier League titles, five FA Cups and the Champions League twice.

Chelsea are ranked by Forbes as the seventh most valuable club in world soccer at $3.2 billion.

The club are third in the league standings -- 11 points behind leaders Manchester City -- while they are set to play Lille in the Champions League last-16 second leg later on Wednesday.

The owners of U.S. baseball team the Chicago Cubs have teamed up with Citadel founder Ken Griffin to work on a bid to buy English Premier League soccer club Chelsea, a spokesperson for Griffin confirmed to Reuters on Wednesday.

The owners of U.S. baseball team the Chicago Cubs have teamed up with Citadel founder Ken Griffin to work on a bid to buy English Premier League soccer club Chelsea, a spokesperson for Griffin confirmed to Reuters on Wednesday. The Cubs' owners, the Ricketts family, and Griffin have formed an investment group which is set to make a formal offer for the London club on Friday. Reuters has been told the bid does not involve Citadel, the hedge fund business, only Griffin. The Ricketts family said they would be leading the investment group that will make the bid. ALSO READ: Real Madrid to donate one million euros to help displaced in Ukraine amid Russia's invasion "As long-time operators of an iconic professional sports team, the Ricketts Family and their partners understand the importance of investing for success on the pitch, while respecting the traditions of the club, the fans and the community," the Ricketts family investor group said in a statement reported by the BBC. Chelsea were initially put up for sale by its owner Roman Abramovich following Russia`s invasion of Ukraine before sanctions were imposed on the Russian oligarch by the British government. The European champions are currently operating under a special licence and are now effectively controlled by the British government. Abramovich bought the club in 2003 for a reported 140 million pounds ($183.16 million). He had funded Chelsea via 1.5 billion pounds in total loans through Fordstam Limited, the entity through which he owns the club. ALSO READ: Atletico Madrid win at Old Trafford to knock out Cristiano Ronaldo-starrer Manchester United His investment resulted in the most successful era in their history as they won five Premier League titles, five FA Cups and the Champions League twice. Chelsea are ranked by Forbes as the seventh most valuable club in world soccer at $3.2 billion. The club are third in the league standings -- 11 points behind leaders Manchester City -- while they are set to play Lille in the Champions League last-16 second leg later on Wednesday.

Chicago Cubs owners team up with Citadel founder Ken Griffin to bid for Chelsea Football Club

Pakistan and Australia played out a humdinger of a clash in the just-concluded second and penultimate Test at the National Stadium, Karachi on Wednesday (March 16). After Day 4 ended with Pakistan at 192-2, in pursuit of a mammoth 506-run target set by Pat Cummins &amp; Co., Babar Azam stood tall from one end to prevent a memorable win for the visitors with an impressive 196-run knock in Karachi. After Babar fell with over 12 overs remaining in the final day's play, Mohammad Rizwan's 104 not out propelled Pakistan to 443-7 as both sides settled for a draw with the series scoreline still reading 0-0.

Courtesy Babar's lengthy stay in the middle, Pakistan managed to escape from the jaws of a defeat after conceding a big first-innings lead. Babar batted for over 400 deliveries and registered the highest score by a captain in the final innings of a Test match. With a terrific draw, courtesy Babar, Rizwan and Abdullah Shafique (96), Pakistan created history and became only the second team to bat over 1,000 deliveries (1,030) in the fourth and final innings for a draw.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/babar-azam-scripts-history-achieves-elite-feat-during-marathon-196-run-knock-in-2nd-test-vs-australia-462928">Babar Azam scripts history, achieves elite feat during marathon 196-run knock in 2nd Test vs Australia</a>

The first instance came during&nbsp;England's&nbsp;timeless Test in Durban, versus South Africa, in 1939. That match went on for as many as 10 days and had to be stopped as the English team&nbsp;would've missed the boat for home. Back then, England were 654/5 in chase of 696 in 218.2 overs (1,746) when the match ended in a draw.

After the match, Babar said at the post-match presentation, "The plan was to bat session-by-session and build partnerships. It was a team effort, as others (Shafique and Rizwan) chipped in with useful contributions too. We took the onus and the main focus was to build partnerships right throughout the day. Rizwan was outstanding as he saved the Test for us eventually. We wanted to continue to bat in the same way (after the tea break) and we tried to be positive and play our shots. The team needed this knock, so I tried to bat for as long as I could."

Meanwhile, Cummins stated, "I think so, I think we had enough overs, it was a pretty good wicket even on day 4 and day 5. We created a few chances, but we failed to grab them. Mitch Swepson was fantastic on debut, his figures don't do justice to the way he bowled. Nathan was impressive towards the end, as he always does on day 5. For an Australian team to bat over two days at the start of a Test match, I don't think we've done that for a long time. Lots of positives from this match and so far in the series. The way we batted was fantastic, the way we hunted and took those wickets on day 3 with reverse swing, that was brilliant as well. And we were always ahead in the game, so really proud of the boys."

Pakistan and Australia played out a humdinger of a clash in the just-concluded second and penultimate Test at the National Stadium, Karachi on Wednesday (March 16).

Pakistan and Australia played out a humdinger of a clash in the just-concluded second and penultimate Test at the National Stadium, Karachi on Wednesday (March 16). After Day 4 ended with Pakistan at 192-2, in pursuit of a mammoth 506-run target set by Pat Cummins & Co., Babar Azam stood tall from one end to prevent a memorable win for the visitors with an impressive 196-run knock in Karachi. After Babar fell with over 12 overs remaining in the final day's play, Mohammad Rizwan's 104 not out propelled Pakistan to 443-7 as both sides settled for a draw with the series scoreline still reading 0-0. Courtesy Babar's lengthy stay in the middle, Pakistan managed to escape from the jaws of a defeat after conceding a big first-innings lead. Babar batted for over 400 deliveries and registered the highest score by a captain in the final innings of a Test match. With a terrific draw, courtesy Babar, Rizwan and Abdullah Shafique (96), Pakistan created history and became only the second team to bat over 1,000 deliveries (1,030) in the fourth and final innings for a draw. ALSO READ | Babar Azam scripts history, achieves elite feat during marathon 196-run knock in 2nd Test vs Australia The first instance came during England's timeless Test in Durban, versus South Africa, in 1939. That match went on for as many as 10 days and had to be stopped as the English team would've missed the boat for home. Back then, England were 654/5 in chase of 696 in 218.2 overs (1,746) when the match ended in a draw. After the match, Babar said at the post-match presentation, "The plan was to bat session-by-session and build partnerships. It was a team effort, as others (Shafique and Rizwan) chipped in with useful contributions too. We took the onus and the main focus was to build partnerships right throughout the day. Rizwan was outstanding as he saved the Test for us eventually. We wanted to continue to bat in the same way (after the tea break) and we tried to be positive and play our shots. The team needed this knock, so I tried to bat for as long as I could." Meanwhile, Cummins stated, "I think so, I think we had enough overs, it was a pretty good wicket even on day 4 and day 5. We created a few chances, but we failed to grab them. Mitch Swepson was fantastic on debut, his figures don't do justice to the way he bowled. Nathan was impressive towards the end, as he always does on day 5. For an Australian team to bat over two days at the start of a Test match, I don't think we've done that for a long time. Lots of positives from this match and so far in the series. The way we batted was fantastic, the way we hunted and took those wickets on day 3 with reverse swing, that was brilliant as well. And we were always ahead in the game, so really proud of the boys."

Babar Azam-led Pakistan become second team to achieve historic feat after drawn Test vs Australia

Jharkhand sealed their Ranji Trophy quarterfinal berth here on Wednesday but not before making a mockery of their knock-out fixture against minnows Nagaland.

In pursuit of giving their young batters some "practice" for the quarterfinal which is slated about three months from now, the Saurabh Tiwary-led side ended up scoring a match aggregate of 1297 runs.

Jharkhand, who had batted first in the match, had already sealed their last-eight berth after taking a massive 591-run first-innings lead but did not enforce a follow-on against the northeastern side, who were all out for 289 in their first innings.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/babar-azam-led-pakistan-become-second-team-to-achieve-historic-feat-after-drawn-test-vs-australia-462960">Babar Azam-led Pakistan become second team to achieve historic feat after drawn Test vs Australia</a>

Resuming the fifth and final day on 132/2 in their second innings, with an overall lead of 723 runs, Jharkhand called off the proceedings much to the delight of Nagaland bowlers midway into the second session.

Just when their first innings double-centurion Kumar Kushagra got out for 89 (104 balls; 9x4, 3x6) in the third ball of the 91st over, both the teams shook hands.

Jharkhand made 417/6 in their second essay, an overall lead of 1008 -- the highest in the history of first-class cricket.

The match witnessed three centuries and one double ton from Jharkhand batters and on the final day, overnight batter Anukul Roy followed up his first-innings 59 with a brisk 159 (164b; 14x4, 7x6). This was his second first-class hundred.

The Plate group toppers Nagaland had to toil hard, remaining on the field for most part of the five-day game and ended up bowling more than 294 overs.

Justifying his side's decision, skipper Tiwary had said on Tuesday that they wanted to give their young batters some practice as first-innings lead was enough to book a quarterfinal berth for them.

Jharkhand thus joined the seven Elite group toppers -- Bengal, Mumbai, Karnataka, Punjab, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand -- who have already qualified for the quarterfinals.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/babar-azam-md-rizwans-heroics-helps-pakistan-draw-2nd-test-against-australia-in-karachi-462915">Babar Azam, Md Rizwan's heroics helps Pakistan draw 2nd Test against Australia in Karachi</a>

The Ranji Trophy quarterfinals will be held after the upcoming IPL. The fixtures are yet to be announced.

Brief Scores:

Jharkhand 880 and 417/6 in 90.3 overs (Anukul Roy 153, Kumar Kushagra 89, Utkarsh Singh 73; Rongsen Jonathan 3/109). Nagaland 289. Match drawn. Jharkhand qualified for the quarterfinals on first-innings lead.

Jharkhand sealed their Ranji Trophy quarterfinal berth here on Wednesday but not before making a mockery of their knock-out fixture against minnows Nagaland. In pursuit of giving their young batters some "practice" for the quarterfinal which is slated about three months from now, the Saurabh Tiwary-led side ended up scoring a match aggregate of 1297 runs.

Jharkhand sealed their Ranji Trophy quarterfinal berth here on Wednesday but not before making a mockery of their knock-out fixture against minnows Nagaland. In pursuit of giving their young batters some "practice" for the quarterfinal which is slated about three months from now, the Saurabh Tiwary-led side ended up scoring a match aggregate of 1297 runs. Jharkhand, who had batted first in the match, had already sealed their last-eight berth after taking a massive 591-run first-innings lead but did not enforce a follow-on against the northeastern side, who were all out for 289 in their first innings. ALSO READ: Babar Azam-led Pakistan become second team to achieve historic feat after drawn Test vs Australia Resuming the fifth and final day on 132/2 in their second innings, with an overall lead of 723 runs, Jharkhand called off the proceedings much to the delight of Nagaland bowlers midway into the second session. Just when their first innings double-centurion Kumar Kushagra got out for 89 (104 balls; 9x4, 3x6) in the third ball of the 91st over, both the teams shook hands. Jharkhand made 417/6 in their second essay, an overall lead of 1008 -- the highest in the history of first-class cricket. The match witnessed three centuries and one double ton from Jharkhand batters and on the final day, overnight batter Anukul Roy followed up his first-innings 59 with a brisk 159 (164b; 14x4, 7x6). This was his second first-class hundred. The Plate group toppers Nagaland had to toil hard, remaining on the field for most part of the five-day game and ended up bowling more than 294 overs. Justifying his side's decision, skipper Tiwary had said on Tuesday that they wanted to give their young batters some practice as first-innings lead was enough to book a quarterfinal berth for them. Jharkhand thus joined the seven Elite group toppers -- Bengal, Mumbai, Karnataka, Punjab, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand -- who have already qualified for the quarterfinals. ALSO READ: Babar Azam, Md Rizwan's heroics helps Pakistan draw 2nd Test against Australia in Karachi The Ranji Trophy quarterfinals will be held after the upcoming IPL. The fixtures are yet to be announced. Brief Scores: Jharkhand 880 and 417/6 in 90.3 overs (Anukul Roy 153, Kumar Kushagra 89, Utkarsh Singh 73; Rongsen Jonathan 3/109). Nagaland 289. Match drawn. Jharkhand qualified for the quarterfinals on first-innings lead.

Ranji Trophy: Jharkhand register highest-ever first class lead of 1,008 runs against hapless Nagaland

Hockey India named the 20-member Indian Junior Women's Hockey Team for the much-awaited FIH Women's Junior World Cup 2021 which was postponed to 2022 due to the omicron threat in South Africa.

The tournament is scheduled to begin on April 1 in Potchefstroom, South Africa.

The Indian team, grouped in Pool D along with Germany, Malaysia and Wales, will be Captained by Salima Tete and Vice Captained by Ishika Chaudhary.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/babar-azam-md-rizwans-heroics-helps-pakistan-draw-2nd-test-against-australia-in-karachi-462915">Babar Azam, Md Rizwan's heroics helps Pakistan draw 2nd Test against Australia in Karachi</a>

They will kick-start their campaign on 2 April 2022 with their first match against Wales Junior Women followed by their match against the German Junior team on 3 April 2022 and they will play their last group-stage match on April 5 against Malaysia.

The Quarter Finals will be held on 8 April 2022 whereas the Semi-Finals is scheduled for 10 April 2022 and the Final on 12 April 2022 The 20-member squad consists of goalkeepers Bichu Devi Kharibam, who recently made her Senior India debut at the FIH Hockey Pro League matches against Germany, and Khushboo.

The defenders include Marina Lalramnghaki, Preeti, Priyanka, Ishika Chaudhary and Akshata Abaso Dekhale, who also made her Senior India debut against Germany at the recently held FIH Hockey Pro League matches in Bhubaneswar.

Reet, Ajmina Kujur, Baljeet Kaur and Vaishnavi Vitthal Phalke will form the Indian midfield along with Salima Tete, Sharmila Devi, Lalremsiami -- all three were part of the Indian Women's team that finished fourth in the Tokyo Olympics.

The forward line will feature Lalrindiki, Jiwan Kishori Toppo, Mumtaz Khan, Beauty Dungdung, Deepika and Sangita Kumari, who also made her Senior debut recently.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/explained-heres-how-mithali-rajs-india-can-make-it-to-cwc-2022-semi-finals-after-england-drubbing-462886">EXPLAINED! Here's how Mithali Raj's India can make it to CWC 2022 semi-finals after England drubbing</a>

Speaking about the team, Chief Coach Janneke Schopman said, "After a long wait our Junior players are definitely ready to start their Junior World Cup experience. It was difficult to finalize the selection as all players showed a lot of progress in the past months which is great to see."

"With a couple of players making their debut for the Senior Team in the Pro League recently, I believe that the added experience will have a positive influence. The team overall has a nice mixture of different skills and talents and am excited to see them taking on the best teams in the world at U21 level," Schopman added.

The Indian Junior Women's Team's best show in recent times was at the FIH Junior Women's World Cup in 2013 when they finished on the podium with a Bronze Medal beating nemesis England in a shootout.

Hockey India named the 20-member Indian Junior Women's Hockey Team for the much-awaited FIH Women's Junior World Cup 2021 which was postponed to 2022 due to the omicron threat in South Africa.

Hockey India named the 20-member Indian Junior Women's Hockey Team for the much-awaited FIH Women's Junior World Cup 2021 which was postponed to 2022 due to the omicron threat in South Africa. The tournament is scheduled to begin on April 1 in Potchefstroom, South Africa. The Indian team, grouped in Pool D along with Germany, Malaysia and Wales, will be Captained by Salima Tete and Vice Captained by Ishika Chaudhary. ALSO READ: Babar Azam, Md Rizwan's heroics helps Pakistan draw 2nd Test against Australia in Karachi They will kick-start their campaign on 2 April 2022 with their first match against Wales Junior Women followed by their match against the German Junior team on 3 April 2022 and they will play their last group-stage match on April 5 against Malaysia. The Quarter Finals will be held on 8 April 2022 whereas the Semi-Finals is scheduled for 10 April 2022 and the Final on 12 April 2022 The 20-member squad consists of goalkeepers Bichu Devi Kharibam, who recently made her Senior India debut at the FIH Hockey Pro League matches against Germany, and Khushboo. The defenders include Marina Lalramnghaki, Preeti, Priyanka, Ishika Chaudhary and Akshata Abaso Dekhale, who also made her Senior India debut against Germany at the recently held FIH Hockey Pro League matches in Bhubaneswar. Reet, Ajmina Kujur, Baljeet Kaur and Vaishnavi Vitthal Phalke will form the Indian midfield along with Salima Tete, Sharmila Devi, Lalremsiami -- all three were part of the Indian Women's team that finished fourth in the Tokyo Olympics. The forward line will feature Lalrindiki, Jiwan Kishori Toppo, Mumtaz Khan, Beauty Dungdung, Deepika and Sangita Kumari, who also made her Senior debut recently. ALSO READ: EXPLAINED! Here's how Mithali Raj's India can make it to CWC 2022 semi-finals after England drubbing Speaking about the team, Chief Coach Janneke Schopman said, "After a long wait our Junior players are definitely ready to start their Junior World Cup experience. It was difficult to finalize the selection as all players showed a lot of progress in the past months which is great to see." "With a couple of players making their debut for the Senior Team in the Pro League recently, I believe that the added experience will have a positive influence. The team overall has a nice mixture of different skills and talents and am excited to see them taking on the best teams in the world at U21 level," Schopman added. The Indian Junior Women's Team's best show in recent times was at the FIH Junior Women's World Cup in 2013 when they finished on the podium with a Bronze Medal beating nemesis England in a shootout.

Hockey India announces 20-member squad for FIH Women's Junior World Cup

An inconsistent India paid the price for a shoddy batting effort but England infused a new life into their title defence with a four-wicket win in a league-stage game of the ICC Women World Cup, here on Wednesday.

Inconsistency returned to haunt Indian batters as they were bundled out for a meagre 134 by England, who chased down the target in 31.2 overs to record their first win in the tournament after a hat-trick of defeats.

India got some runs on the board, thanks to previous game's centurion Smriti Mandhana, who top-scored for the side with a 35-run knock while wicketkeeper batter Richa Ghosh made 33.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/r-ashwin-scripts-history-becomes-first-bowler-to-complete-100-wickets-in-world-test-championship-462657">R Ashwin scripts history, becomes first bowler to complete 100 wickets in World Test Championship</a>

With wickets falling intermittently, England bowled out India in 36.2 overs. 
England also made a stuttering start to their chase as they lost both their openers -- Danni Wyatt (1) and Tammy Beaumont (1) -- cheaply with the scoreboard reading four for two in the third over.

Wyatt was first to depart in the second over, courtesy a sensational diving catch by Sneh Rana off medium-pacer Meghna Singh (3/26).

Veteran Jhulan Goswami, the highest wicket-taker in the history of the tournament, then trapped Beaumont in the second over after India went for the review. It was 250th wicket for the pacer in ODIs.

England skipper Heather Knight (53 not out) and Nat Sciver (45 off 46) then steadied England innings, playing cautiously to reach 34 for 2 in 10 overs.

While Knight played a captain's knock by anchoring the chase, Sciver took the attack to the Indian bowlers, hitting as many as eight boundaries during her entertaining knock, in which she pulled off some pull shots.

With just 135 required for a win, what England needed was a decent partnership after the early blows and Knight and Sciver provided that by sharing 65 runs for the third wicket.

Sciver's innings was cut short by Pooja Vastrakar. It was a soft dismissal and against the run of play as Sciver spooned a length ball to Goswami while looking to work the ball on the on-side.

Amy Jones (10) then stitched a 33-run stand for the next wicket with Knight before the former fell to a stunning backward running catch by India vice-captain Harmanpreet Kaur at mid-on off Rajeshwari Gayakwad's bowling.

By then it was all over for India by then as England needed just 32 more runs.

The Indians picked up two more wickets in the 30th over before England completed the formality.

Meghna dismissed Sophia Dunkley (17) and Katherine Brunt (0) within a span of three balls in identical fashion -- caught behind by wicketkeeper Richa Ghosh.

Earlier, in sharp contrast to India's performance against the West Indies in their last match when they rode on centuries from Mandhana and Harmanpreet Kaur to post 317 for 8, their highest total in the history of the showpiece event.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wwc-2022-jhulan-goswami-becomes-first-woman-to-enter-250-wicket-club-joins-elite-indian-mens-bowlers-462759">WWC 2022: Jhulan Goswami becomes first woman to enter 250-wicket club, joins elite Indian men's bowlers</a>

Charlie Dean (4/23) was the pick of the bowlers for England while Anya Shrubsole also chipped in with two wickets as the Indians failed to build a decent partnership.

Having suffered three defeats from as many matches so far, it is a must-win match for title holders and four-time champions England.

The defeat failed to dislodge India from the top four as the Mithali Raj-led side is occupying the third spot in the eight-team standings with four points from two wins and as many losses.

England, on the other hand, opened their tally and are placed seventh with two points from four matches.

An inconsistent India paid the price for a shoddy batting effort but England infused a new life into their title defence with a four-wicket win in a league-stage game of the ICC Women World Cup, here on Wednesday.

An inconsistent India paid the price for a shoddy batting effort but England infused a new life into their title defence with a four-wicket win in a league-stage game of the ICC Women World Cup, here on Wednesday. Inconsistency returned to haunt Indian batters as they were bundled out for a meagre 134 by England, who chased down the target in 31.2 overs to record their first win in the tournament after a hat-trick of defeats. India got some runs on the board, thanks to previous game's centurion Smriti Mandhana, who top-scored for the side with a 35-run knock while wicketkeeper batter Richa Ghosh made 33. ALSO READ: R Ashwin scripts history, becomes first bowler to complete 100 wickets in World Test Championship With wickets falling intermittently, England bowled out India in 36.2 overs. England also made a stuttering start to their chase as they lost both their openers -- Danni Wyatt (1) and Tammy Beaumont (1) -- cheaply with the scoreboard reading four for two in the third over. Wyatt was first to depart in the second over, courtesy a sensational diving catch by Sneh Rana off medium-pacer Meghna Singh (3/26). Veteran Jhulan Goswami, the highest wicket-taker in the history of the tournament, then trapped Beaumont in the second over after India went for the review. It was 250th wicket for the pacer in ODIs. England skipper Heather Knight (53 not out) and Nat Sciver (45 off 46) then steadied England innings, playing cautiously to reach 34 for 2 in 10 overs. While Knight played a captain's knock by anchoring the chase, Sciver took the attack to the Indian bowlers, hitting as many as eight boundaries during her entertaining knock, in which she pulled off some pull shots. With just 135 required for a win, what England needed was a decent partnership after the early blows and Knight and Sciver provided that by sharing 65 runs for the third wicket. Sciver's innings was cut short by Pooja Vastrakar. It was a soft dismissal and against the run of play as Sciver spooned a length ball to Goswami while looking to work the ball on the on-side. Amy Jones (10) then stitched a 33-run stand for the next wicket with Knight before the former fell to a stunning backward running catch by India vice-captain Harmanpreet Kaur at mid-on off Rajeshwari Gayakwad's bowling. By then it was all over for India by then as England needed just 32 more runs. The Indians picked up two more wickets in the 30th over before England completed the formality. Meghna dismissed Sophia Dunkley (17) and Katherine Brunt (0) within a span of three balls in identical fashion -- caught behind by wicketkeeper Richa Ghosh. Earlier, in sharp contrast to India's performance against the West Indies in their last match when they rode on centuries from Mandhana and Harmanpreet Kaur to post 317 for 8, their highest total in the history of the showpiece event. ALSO READ: WWC 2022: Jhulan Goswami becomes first woman to enter 250-wicket club, joins elite Indian men's bowlers Charlie Dean (4/23) was the pick of the bowlers for England while Anya Shrubsole also chipped in with two wickets as the Indians failed to build a decent partnership. Having suffered three defeats from as many matches so far, it is a must-win match for title holders and four-time champions England. The defeat failed to dislodge India from the top four as the Mithali Raj-led side is occupying the third spot in the eight-team standings with four points from two wins and as many losses. England, on the other hand, opened their tally and are placed seventh with two points from four matches.

Women's WC: Charlotte Dean, Heather Knight shine as England beat India by 4 wickets to register first win

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