Team India is entering a new phase in Test cricket with the commencement of the two-match home series versus Sri Lanka, which gets underway on March 04 in Mohali. While it will see the beginning of Rohit Sharma's Test captaincy era, the national side will also see a transition phase taking place after seniors such as Ajinkya Rahane, Cheteshwar Pujara, Ishant Sharma and Wriddhiman Saha got dropped prior to the series opener.

Talking about Rahane and Pujara, the duo had an ordinary run for quite some time and paid the price eventually. While the former est vice-captain Rahane didn't score a hundred since his MCG ton in late 2020, Pujara's last triple-figure knock came in early 2019. Since then, the senior pros got a long rope but couldn't do anything significant to be dropped before the SL home series.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/lot-of-credit-for-indias-success-goes-to-virat-kohli-says-rohit-sharma-ahead-of-ex-captains-100th-test-458561">Lot of credit for India's success goes to Virat Kohli, says Rohit Sharma ahead of ex-captain's 100th Test</a>

Speaking ahead of the first Test in Mohali, during the press conference, captain Rohit spoke on the duo's absence and said, "Never easy to fill in big shoes of Rahane and Pujara. You can't put it in words what they have done for the team."

Revealing that both Pujara and Rahane can still make a comeback into the Test line-up, Rohit added, "Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane played big part in India becoming No.1 in Tests. It's just for now, we didn't consider them."

At present, India is at the No. 2 spot in ICC Test Rankings, behind top-ranked Pat Cummins-led Australia. However, the Indian team enjoyed considerable success in whites, topping the ICC Test rankings in the recent past, and Rohit acknowledged Pujara-Rahane's contributions to the side's success.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-100th-test-rohit-sharma-shares-his-best-memory-of-former-indian-captain-in-whites-458539">Virat Kohli 100th Test: Rohit Sharma shares his best memory of former Indian captain in whites</a>

India's Test squad for Sri Lanka series:&nbsp;Rohit Sharma (C), Mayank Agarwal, Priyank Panchal, Virat Kohli, Shreyas, Hanuma Vihari, Gill, Rishabh Pant, KS Bharat, Ashwin (subject to fitness), Ravindra Jadeja, Jayant Yadav, Kuldeep, Bumrah (VC), Mohammed Shami, Mohammed Siraj, Umesh Yadav, Sourabh Kumar

Team India is entering a new phase in Test cricket with the commencement of the two-match home series versus Sri Lanka, which gets underway on March 04 in Mohali.

Team India is entering a new phase in Test cricket with the commencement of the two-match home series versus Sri Lanka, which gets underway on March 04 in Mohali. While it will see the beginning of Rohit Sharma's Test captaincy era, the national side will also see a transition phase taking place after seniors such as Ajinkya Rahane, Cheteshwar Pujara, Ishant Sharma and Wriddhiman Saha got dropped prior to the series opener. Talking about Rahane and Pujara, the duo had an ordinary run for quite some time and paid the price eventually. While the former est vice-captain Rahane didn't score a hundred since his MCG ton in late 2020, Pujara's last triple-figure knock came in early 2019. Since then, the senior pros got a long rope but couldn't do anything significant to be dropped before the SL home series. ALSO READ | Lot of credit for India's success goes to Virat Kohli, says Rohit Sharma ahead of ex-captain's 100th Test Speaking ahead of the first Test in Mohali, during the press conference, captain Rohit spoke on the duo's absence and said, "Never easy to fill in big shoes of Rahane and Pujara. You can't put it in words what they have done for the team." Revealing that both Pujara and Rahane can still make a comeback into the Test line-up, Rohit added, "Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane played big part in India becoming No.1 in Tests. It's just for now, we didn't consider them." At present, India is at the No. 2 spot in ICC Test Rankings, behind top-ranked Pat Cummins-led Australia. However, the Indian team enjoyed considerable success in whites, topping the ICC Test rankings in the recent past, and Rohit acknowledged Pujara-Rahane's contributions to the side's success. ALSO READ | Virat Kohli 100th Test: Rohit Sharma shares his best memory of former Indian captain in whites India's Test squad for Sri Lanka series: Rohit Sharma (C), Mayank Agarwal, Priyank Panchal, Virat Kohli, Shreyas, Hanuma Vihari, Gill, Rishabh Pant, KS Bharat, Ashwin (subject to fitness), Ravindra Jadeja, Jayant Yadav, Kuldeep, Bumrah (VC), Mohammed Shami, Mohammed Siraj, Umesh Yadav, Sourabh Kumar

Rahane and Pujara played a huge part in India becoming No. 1 in Tests, says captain Rohit Sharma

Formula One world champion Max Verstappen will stay at Red Bull until at least the end of 2028, the squad said on Thursday, after signing a five-year contract extension that will make him one of the sport's top earners alongside Mercedes rival Lewis Hamilton.&nbsp;

The Milton Keynes-based squad did not disclose the financial terms of the new deal. The Dutchman's existing contract was set to expire at the end of 2023.

Media reports have valued the new deal at 40-50 million euros ($44 - $55 million) a year.

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"I really enjoy being part of the Oracle Red Bull Racing Team, so choosing to stay to the 2028 season was an easy decision," said Verstappen, who will line up alongside Mexican Sergio Perez this season for the second year in a row. &nbsp;

"I love this team and last year was simply incredible, our goal since we came together in 2016 was to win the championship and we have done that, so now it’s about keeping the number one on the car long-term."

Verstappen, who made his Formula One debut with Red Bull-owned Toro Rosso as a 17-year-old back in 2015, clinched his first Formula One crown after beating Hamilton in controversial circumstances in December's Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.&nbsp;

The 20-time race winner, who took his first victory on his Red Bull debut in 2016, will now be in a similar league pay-wise to Hamilton whose current Mercedes contract, set to expire at the end of next season, is reportedly worth 40 million pounds a year.

In a blow to rivals, the new deal also takes Verstappen, one of the sport's hottest properties as 37-year-old Hamilton approaches the end of his career, off the market and locks him in at Red Bull for the long term.

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"To have Max signed with Oracle Red Bull Racing through to the end of 2028 is a real statement of intent," said team principal Christian Horner. &nbsp;

"Our immediate focus is on retaining Max’s world championship title, but this deal also shows he is a part of the team’s long-term planning."

Formula One world champion Max Verstappen will stay at Red Bull until at least the end of 2028, the squad said on Thursday, after signing a five-year contract extension that will make him one of the sport's top earners alongside Mercedes rival Lewis Hamilton.

Formula One world champion Max Verstappen will stay at Red Bull until at least the end of 2028, the squad said on Thursday, after signing a five-year contract extension that will make him one of the sport's top earners alongside Mercedes rival Lewis Hamilton. The Milton Keynes-based squad did not disclose the financial terms of the new deal. The Dutchman's existing contract was set to expire at the end of 2023. Media reports have valued the new deal at 40-50 million euros ($44 - $55 million) a year. ALSO READ: Asian Champions League: Saudi Arabia set to host group matches "I really enjoy being part of the Oracle Red Bull Racing Team, so choosing to stay to the 2028 season was an easy decision," said Verstappen, who will line up alongside Mexican Sergio Perez this season for the second year in a row. "I love this team and last year was simply incredible, our goal since we came together in 2016 was to win the championship and we have done that, so now it’s about keeping the number one on the car long-term." Verstappen, who made his Formula One debut with Red Bull-owned Toro Rosso as a 17-year-old back in 2015, clinched his first Formula One crown after beating Hamilton in controversial circumstances in December's Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. The 20-time race winner, who took his first victory on his Red Bull debut in 2016, will now be in a similar league pay-wise to Hamilton whose current Mercedes contract, set to expire at the end of next season, is reportedly worth 40 million pounds a year. In a blow to rivals, the new deal also takes Verstappen, one of the sport's hottest properties as 37-year-old Hamilton approaches the end of his career, off the market and locks him in at Red Bull for the long term. ALSO READ: Women's ODI World Cup: DRS to be available for all games "To have Max signed with Oracle Red Bull Racing through to the end of 2028 is a real statement of intent," said team principal Christian Horner. "Our immediate focus is on retaining Max’s world championship title, but this deal also shows he is a part of the team’s long-term planning."

F1 world champion Max Verstappen to stay at Red Bull until 2028

Superstar tennis player Serena Williams has lashed out at a top newspaper, The New York Times, after it mistakenly used a photo of Serena's elder sister, Venus Williams, in a report on the former's venture capital firm.

Serena took to her official Twitter handle, on Wednesday (March 02), and shared a screenshot of the mistake along&nbsp;with the caption,&nbsp;&nbsp;"No matter how far we come, we get reminded that it's not enough. This is why I raised $111M for @serenaventures. To support the founders who are overlooked by engrained systems woefully unaware of their biases. Because even I am overlooked. You can do better, @nytimes."

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No matter how far we come, we get reminded that it's not enough. This is why I raised $111M for <a href="https://twitter.com/SerenaVentures?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@serenaventures</a>. To support the founders who are overlooked by engrained systems woefully unaware of their biases. Because even I am overlooked. You can do better, <a href="https://twitter.com/nytimes?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@nytimes</a>. <a href="https://t.co/hvfCl5WUoz">pic.twitter.com/hvfCl5WUoz</a>
— Serena Williams (@serenawilliams) <a href="https://twitter.com/serenawilliams/status/1499058086165639169?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 2, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Serena had&nbsp;recently launched an early-stage venture capital firm -- known as Serena Ventures -- and raised an inaugural fund of $111 million, as&nbsp;per a report carried out by The New York Times. Nonetheless, the newspaper's mistake made a lot of noise as several social media users pointed out the same and it became a talking point before Serena herself jumped into the bandwagon.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-sport-brings-in-great-culture-and-peace-ropan-bopanna-on-changes-in-tennis-amid-ukraine-crisis-458290">Exclusive | 'Sport brings in great culture and peace' - Ropan Bopanna on changes in tennis amid Ukraine crisis</a>

At present, the 23-time Grand Slam champion Serena is out of the top 50 in the world rankings. It is the first time after 16 years that&nbsp;she has&nbsp;dropped out of the top 50. At 40, the American player occupies the 59th position and can see herself go further down in the rankings in the ongoing calendar year. For the unversed, she had opted out of the first-ever Grand Slam of 2022, i.e. the Australian Open, due to fitness concerns.

Back then, she had stated, "While this is never an easy decision to make, I am not where I need to be physically to compete. Melbourne is one of my favorite cities to visit and I look forward to playing at the AO every year. I will miss seeing the fans, but am excited to return and compete at my highest level," she had added.

Superstar tennis player Serena Williams has lashed out at a top newspaper, The New York Times, after it mistakenly used a photo of Serena's elder sister, Venus Williams, in a report on the former's venture capital firm.

Superstar tennis player Serena Williams has lashed out at a top newspaper, The New York Times, after it mistakenly used a photo of Serena's elder sister, Venus Williams, in a report on the former's venture capital firm. Serena took to her official Twitter handle, on Wednesday (March 02), and shared a screenshot of the mistake along with the caption, "No matter how far we come, we get reminded that it's not enough. This is why I raised $111M for @serenaventures. To support the founders who are overlooked by engrained systems woefully unaware of their biases. Because even I am overlooked. You can do better, @nytimes." No matter how far we come, we get reminded that it's not enough. This is why I raised $111M for @serenaventures. To support the founders who are overlooked by engrained systems woefully unaware of their biases. Because even I am overlooked. You can do better, @nytimes. pic.twitter.com/hvfCl5WUoz — Serena Williams (@serenawilliams) March 2, 2022 × Serena had recently launched an early-stage venture capital firm -- known as Serena Ventures -- and raised an inaugural fund of $111 million, as per a report carried out by The New York Times. Nonetheless, the newspaper's mistake made a lot of noise as several social media users pointed out the same and it became a talking point before Serena herself jumped into the bandwagon. ALSO READ | Exclusive | 'Sport brings in great culture and peace' - Ropan Bopanna on changes in tennis amid Ukraine crisis At present, the 23-time Grand Slam champion Serena is out of the top 50 in the world rankings. It is the first time after 16 years that she has dropped out of the top 50. At 40, the American player occupies the 59th position and can see herself go further down in the rankings in the ongoing calendar year. For the unversed, she had opted out of the first-ever Grand Slam of 2022, i.e. the Australian Open, due to fitness concerns. Back then, she had stated, "While this is never an easy decision to make, I am not where I need to be physically to compete. Melbourne is one of my favorite cities to visit and I look forward to playing at the AO every year. I will miss seeing the fans, but am excited to return and compete at my highest level," she had added.

You can do better: Serena Williams lashes out at top newspaper for confusing her with sister Venus

Ex-Ukraine striker Andriy Shevchenko called on Thursday for more aid and other measures in support of victims of the Russian invasion of his homeland.

Widely regarded as his country's greatest ever player, Shevchenko said global soccer authorities had done the right thing in banning Russia from international competitions, though the sport was currently the last thing on his mind.

"We have refugees, we need humanitarian aid. We need medical support, food support...," Shevchenko, who won 111 caps for Ukraine during a stellar carrier that included stints at some of the world`s top clubs, told Sky Sports.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-captains-to-wear-special-armbands-in-ukrainian-colours-to-show-support-458536">Premier League: Captains to wear special armbands in Ukrainian colours to show support</a> 
 
"Football doesn't exist for me any more. I don't think about it. It's not the time for that... All my concentration, when I wake up, I think about how I can help my country, what I can do."

World soccer body FIFA and its European counterpart UEFA have banned teams from Russia and also Belarus, which has been a staging zone for the invasion.

Since Russia invaded, more than 2,000 Ukrainian civilians have been killed and hundreds of structures including homes, hospitals, kindergartens and transport facilities have been destroyed, Ukraine's emergency service said on Wednesday.

The United Nations has estimated that more than 870,000 people have fled from Ukraine.

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Shevchenko, who is currently based in London, said he had contemplated going home.

"I talk to my parents, I talk to my mother and say I want to go back, but my feeling is here now."

Ex-Ukraine striker Andriy Shevchenko called on Thursday for more aid and other measures in support of victims of the Russian invasion of his homeland. Widely regarded as his country's greatest ever player, Shevchenko said global soccer authorities had done the right thing in banning Russia from international competitions, though the sport was currently the last thing on his mind.

Ex-Ukraine striker Andriy Shevchenko called on Thursday for more aid and other measures in support of victims of the Russian invasion of his homeland. Widely regarded as his country's greatest ever player, Shevchenko said global soccer authorities had done the right thing in banning Russia from international competitions, though the sport was currently the last thing on his mind. "We have refugees, we need humanitarian aid. We need medical support, food support...," Shevchenko, who won 111 caps for Ukraine during a stellar carrier that included stints at some of the world`s top clubs, told Sky Sports. ALSO READ: Premier League: Captains to wear special armbands in Ukrainian colours to show support "Football doesn't exist for me any more. I don't think about it. It's not the time for that... All my concentration, when I wake up, I think about how I can help my country, what I can do." World soccer body FIFA and its European counterpart UEFA have banned teams from Russia and also Belarus, which has been a staging zone for the invasion. Since Russia invaded, more than 2,000 Ukrainian civilians have been killed and hundreds of structures including homes, hospitals, kindergartens and transport facilities have been destroyed, Ukraine's emergency service said on Wednesday. The United Nations has estimated that more than 870,000 people have fled from Ukraine. ALSO READ: Asian Champions League: Saudi Arabia set to host group matches Shevchenko, who is currently based in London, said he had contemplated going home. "I talk to my parents, I talk to my mother and say I want to go back, but my feeling is here now."

Former striker Andriy Shevchenko calls for more aid for Ukraine

Former India pacer Abey Kuruvilla will be taking the charge as Board of Control for Cricket in India's (BCCI) new General Manager.

Sources in the know of developments confirmed this development to ANI."Yes, Abey Kuruvilla will be taking the reins as BCCI's new General Manager," said the source.

Earlier this year, Kuruvilla's tenure as the national selection committee member got over and now he will take up the role of BCCI General Manager.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-100th-test-rohit-sharma-shares-his-best-memory-of-former-indian-captain-in-whites-458539">Virat Kohli 100th Test: Rohit Sharma shares his best memory of former Indian captain in whites</a>

This General Manager position was vacant after Dhiraj Malhotra stepped down.

Kuruvilla has played 10 Tests for India and his appointment was ratified during BCCI's Apex Council Meeting on Wednesday.

Former India pacer Abey Kuruvilla will be taking the charge as Board of Control for Cricket in India's (BCCI) new General Manager. Sources in the know of developments confirmed this development to ANI.

Former India pacer Abey Kuruvilla will be taking the charge as Board of Control for Cricket in India's (BCCI) new General Manager. Sources in the know of developments confirmed this development to ANI."Yes, Abey Kuruvilla will be taking the reins as BCCI's new General Manager," said the source. Earlier this year, Kuruvilla's tenure as the national selection committee member got over and now he will take up the role of BCCI General Manager. ALSO READ: Virat Kohli 100th Test: Rohit Sharma shares his best memory of former Indian captain in whites This General Manager position was vacant after Dhiraj Malhotra stepped down. Kuruvilla has played 10 Tests for India and his appointment was ratified during BCCI's Apex Council Meeting on Wednesday.

Former India pacer Abey Kuruvilla to take charge as BCCI's new General Manager

Rohit Sharma is set to begin his Test captaincy era as India face Sri Lanka in the series opener in Mohali on March 04 (Friday). Rohit was appointed as India's full-time captain after Virat Kohli stepped down as the Test skipper post the India-South Africa series, in the African nation, held early this year.

While Rohit's credentials as a white-ball skipper is already known to the world, given his splendid record as IPL captain and magnificent start as full-time limited-overs captain, it will be the first time that Hitman will lead India in whites during the SL home series. The 34-year-old has a stiff job in hand to take Indian cricket forward in whites after his predecessor Kohli's flawless run as the leader in the red-ball format.

Kohli took over as India's captain after MS Dhoni's Test retirement and led the national side for seven years. Under him, India won their first-ever Test series on Australian soil, have an unassailable 2-1 lead over England in the incomplete five Tests in the United Kingdom (held last year), dominated at home and also ended as the top-ranked side in ICC Test Rankings for five successive years. Thus, Rohit has big shoes to fill and has his task cut out.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-100th-test-rohit-sharma-shares-his-best-memory-of-former-indian-captain-in-whites-458539">Virat Kohli 100th Test: Rohit Sharma shares his best memory of former Indian captain in whites</a>

Ahead of the SL series, Rohit opined on his new role as the Test captain and said at a virtual presser, "Honestly, I just want to win matches. I want to do the right things with the squad we have. We are in a good position and over the last five years have done well. A lot of credit for that goes to Virat Kohli."

Rohit further lauded Kohli -- who is set to play his 100th Test in the series opener -- and said, "It has been a long journey for him and it has been a wonderful one. He has done exceedingly well in this format, he has changed so many things in the way the team is moving forward. It has been one hell of a ride for him and it will continue to be in the coming years."

Rohit Sharma is set to begin his Test captaincy era as India face Sri Lanka in the series opener in Mohali on March 04 (Friday). Rohit was appointed as India's full-time captain after Virat Kohli stepped down as the Test skipper post the India-South Africa series, in the African nation, held early this year.

Rohit Sharma is set to begin his Test captaincy era as India face Sri Lanka in the series opener in Mohali on March 04 (Friday). Rohit was appointed as India's full-time captain after Virat Kohli stepped down as the Test skipper post the India-South Africa series, in the African nation, held early this year. While Rohit's credentials as a white-ball skipper is already known to the world, given his splendid record as IPL captain and magnificent start as full-time limited-overs captain, it will be the first time that Hitman will lead India in whites during the SL home series. The 34-year-old has a stiff job in hand to take Indian cricket forward in whites after his predecessor Kohli's flawless run as the leader in the red-ball format. Kohli took over as India's captain after MS Dhoni's Test retirement and led the national side for seven years. Under him, India won their first-ever Test series on Australian soil, have an unassailable 2-1 lead over England in the incomplete five Tests in the United Kingdom (held last year), dominated at home and also ended as the top-ranked side in ICC Test Rankings for five successive years. Thus, Rohit has big shoes to fill and has his task cut out. ALSO READ | Virat Kohli 100th Test: Rohit Sharma shares his best memory of former Indian captain in whites Ahead of the SL series, Rohit opined on his new role as the Test captain and said at a virtual presser, "Honestly, I just want to win matches. I want to do the right things with the squad we have. We are in a good position and over the last five years have done well. A lot of credit for that goes to Virat Kohli." Rohit further lauded Kohli -- who is set to play his 100th Test in the series opener -- and said, "It has been a long journey for him and it has been a wonderful one. He has done exceedingly well in this format, he has changed so many things in the way the team is moving forward. It has been one hell of a ride for him and it will continue to be in the coming years."

Lot of credit for India's success goes to Virat Kohli, says Rohit Sharma ahead of ex-captain's 100th Test

Russian and Belarusian athletes will not be able to compete at the Winter Paralympics in Beijing, the International Paralympic Committee (IPC) said on Thursday, following Russia's invasion of Ukraine for which Belarus has been a key staging area.

The decision comes a day after the IPC gave athletes from the two countries the green light to participate as neutrals, saying that the governing body had followed its rules and that "athletes were not the aggressors".

"Following a specially convened meeting, the IPC Governing Board has decided to refuse the athlete entries from the RPC and NPC Belarus for the Beijing 2022 Paralympic Winter Games," the IPC said in a statement.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-sport-brings-in-great-culture-and-peace-ropan-bopanna-on-changes-in-tennis-amid-ukraine-crisis-458290">Exclusive | 'Sport brings in great culture and peace' - Ropan Bopanna on changes in tennis amid Ukraine crisis</a>

"This means that para-athletes from these respective countries will no longer be allowed to participate in the Games which open on 4 March 2022.

"What is clear is that the rapidly escalating situation has now put us in a unique and impossible position so close to the start of the Games."

Thursday's verdict was condemned by various sporting bodies, with many urging the IPC to reverse its decision.

The 71-member Russian contingent is already in Beijing for the Games, which kick off on Friday.

Russian and Belarusian athletes will not be able to compete at the Winter Paralympics in Beijing, the International Paralympic Committee (IPC) said on Thursday, following Russia's invasion of Ukraine for which Belarus has been a key staging area.

Russian and Belarusian athletes will not be able to compete at the Winter Paralympics in Beijing, the International Paralympic Committee (IPC) said on Thursday, following Russia's invasion of Ukraine for which Belarus has been a key staging area. The decision comes a day after the IPC gave athletes from the two countries the green light to participate as neutrals, saying that the governing body had followed its rules and that "athletes were not the aggressors". "Following a specially convened meeting, the IPC Governing Board has decided to refuse the athlete entries from the RPC and NPC Belarus for the Beijing 2022 Paralympic Winter Games," the IPC said in a statement. ALSO READ: Exclusive | 'Sport brings in great culture and peace' - Ropan Bopanna on changes in tennis amid Ukraine crisis "This means that para-athletes from these respective countries will no longer be allowed to participate in the Games which open on 4 March 2022. "What is clear is that the rapidly escalating situation has now put us in a unique and impossible position so close to the start of the Games." Thursday's verdict was condemned by various sporting bodies, with many urging the IPC to reverse its decision. The 71-member Russian contingent is already in Beijing for the Games, which kick off on Friday.

IPC bans athletes from Russia, Belarus to participate in Beijing Winter Paralympics

All matches of the upcoming Women's 50-over World Cup will be covered live by broadcast partners around the world, which will access a fully produced world feed programme from ICC TV using a minimum of 24 cameras at each of the six venues.

The Decision Review System (DRS) will be available at all matches.

The commentary panel includes ICC Hall of Famers Debbie Hockley and Lisa Sthalekar, Anjum Chopra, Simon Doull, Mel Jones, Nasser Hussain, Lesley Murdoch, Natalie Germanos, Ian Smith, Lydia Greenway, Stacy-Ann King, Sanjay Manjrekar, Sana Mir, WV Raman, Kass Naidoo and Alan Wilkins.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2022-maharashtra-govt-allows-25-spectators-in-stadiums-teams-to-start-training-by-mid-march-458458">IPL 2022: Maharashtra Govt allows 25% spectators in stadiums; teams to start training by mid-March</a>

Nasser Hussain: "Women's cricket has made rapid progress in the past few years, and I have been following it very keenly. The worlds&nbsp;best have converged in New Zealand and I'm sure there are lots of thrills in store in the coming weeks."

"I can't wait to get to the commentary box and watch the spectacle unfold," he added.

This will be the most widely distributed women's cricket event of all time with unprecedented coverage from Star Sports and its Licensees making each match available live on a global basis.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bccis-new-central-contracts-kohli-rohit-bumrah-top-earners-rahane-pujara-hardik-demoted-report-458501">BCCI's new central contracts: Kohli, Rohit, Bumrah top earners, Rahane, Pujara &amp; Hardik demoted - Report</a>

In India, Star Sports will have Hindi commentary for all India matches.

The Women's 50-over World Cup will be played from March 4-April 3 and the tournament opener will be played between New Zealand and West Indies.

All matches of the upcoming Women's 50-over World Cup will be covered live by broadcast partners around the world, which will access a fully produced world feed programme from ICC TV using a minimum of 24 cameras at each of the six venues.

All matches of the upcoming Women's 50-over World Cup will be covered live by broadcast partners around the world, which will access a fully produced world feed programme from ICC TV using a minimum of 24 cameras at each of the six venues. The Decision Review System (DRS) will be available at all matches. The commentary panel includes ICC Hall of Famers Debbie Hockley and Lisa Sthalekar, Anjum Chopra, Simon Doull, Mel Jones, Nasser Hussain, Lesley Murdoch, Natalie Germanos, Ian Smith, Lydia Greenway, Stacy-Ann King, Sanjay Manjrekar, Sana Mir, WV Raman, Kass Naidoo and Alan Wilkins. ALSO READ: IPL 2022: Maharashtra Govt allows 25% spectators in stadiums; teams to start training by mid-March Nasser Hussain: "Women's cricket has made rapid progress in the past few years, and I have been following it very keenly. The worlds best have converged in New Zealand and I'm sure there are lots of thrills in store in the coming weeks." "I can't wait to get to the commentary box and watch the spectacle unfold," he added. This will be the most widely distributed women's cricket event of all time with unprecedented coverage from Star Sports and its Licensees making each match available live on a global basis. ALSO READ: BCCI's new central contracts: Kohli, Rohit, Bumrah top earners, Rahane, Pujara & Hardik demoted - Report In India, Star Sports will have Hindi commentary for all India matches. The Women's 50-over World Cup will be played from March 4-April 3 and the tournament opener will be played between New Zealand and West Indies.

Women's ODI World Cup: DRS to be available for all games

The Premier League and its clubs have wholeheartedly rejected Russia's ongoing military operations in Ukraine and hence, everyone involved will be showing support for the people of Ukraine at all matches this weekend.

"We call for peace and our thoughts are with all those who have been impacted. A show of solidarity for Ukraine will be visible at all Premier League matches from March 5-7. This follows the numerous ways in which clubs have already demonstrated their support," stated an official statement.

"The 20 club captains will wear special armbands in Ukrainian colours and fans are encouraged to join players, managers, match officials and club staff in a moment of reflection and solidarity before kick-off at each game," it added.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipc-bans-athletes-from-russia-belarus-to-participate-in-beijing-winter-paralympics-458471">IPC bans athletes from Russia, Belarus to participate in Beijing WInter Paralympics</a>

Big screens at stadiums will display "Football Stands Together" against the backdrop of the blue and yellow colours of the Ukrainian flag.

These words will also be shown on LED perimeter boards during matches.

This message of solidarity will also be visible to fans around the world across Premier League digital channels.

Logos and profiles on those platforms will change to represent the colours of the Ukrainian flag which will also be displayed across match broadcasts both in the UK and overseas.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bryan-brothers-to-raise-funds-to-support-elina-svitolinas-humanitarian-drive-for-ukraine-refugees-458499">Bryan brothers to raise funds to support Elina Svitolina's humanitarian drive for Ukraine refugees</a>

Following Russia's ongoing military operations in Ukraine, the sports fraternity has become proactive and many events in Russia have been cancelled, including the Russian Grand Prix.

The Champions League final has also been moved out of Russia and it will now take place in Paris.

The Premier League and its clubs have wholeheartedly rejected Russia's ongoing military operations in Ukraine and hence, everyone involved will be showing support for the people of Ukraine at all matches this weekend.

The Premier League and its clubs have wholeheartedly rejected Russia's ongoing military operations in Ukraine and hence, everyone involved will be showing support for the people of Ukraine at all matches this weekend. "We call for peace and our thoughts are with all those who have been impacted. A show of solidarity for Ukraine will be visible at all Premier League matches from March 5-7. This follows the numerous ways in which clubs have already demonstrated their support," stated an official statement. "The 20 club captains will wear special armbands in Ukrainian colours and fans are encouraged to join players, managers, match officials and club staff in a moment of reflection and solidarity before kick-off at each game," it added. ALSO READ: IPC bans athletes from Russia, Belarus to participate in Beijing WInter Paralympics Big screens at stadiums will display "Football Stands Together" against the backdrop of the blue and yellow colours of the Ukrainian flag. These words will also be shown on LED perimeter boards during matches. This message of solidarity will also be visible to fans around the world across Premier League digital channels. Logos and profiles on those platforms will change to represent the colours of the Ukrainian flag which will also be displayed across match broadcasts both in the UK and overseas. ALSO READ: Bryan brothers to raise funds to support Elina Svitolina's humanitarian drive for Ukraine refugees Following Russia's ongoing military operations in Ukraine, the sports fraternity has become proactive and many events in Russia have been cancelled, including the Russian Grand Prix. The Champions League final has also been moved out of Russia and it will now take place in Paris.

Premier League: Captains to wear special armbands in Ukrainian colours to show support

India are gearing up to face Sri Lanka in the series opener of the two-match Test series, which gets underway in Mohali on March 04. India's opening Test will also be former captain Virat Kohli's 100th outing in whites. Kohli will become only the 12th Indian to enter the 100-Test club.

Kohli has had a wonderful run in the purest format for Team India. The 33-year-old has so far scored 7,962 runs in 99 Tests with 27 hundreds and&nbsp;28 half-centuries in whites. Ahead of his landmark outing in the red-ball format, new full-time captain Rohit Sharma lavished praise on his predecessor and shared his best memory of Kohli in Test cricket.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/virat-kohli-set-to-play-100th-test-reliving-former-indian-captains-impressive-run-in-whites-458253#virat-kohli-joins-big-indian-names-in-100-test-club-458214">Virat Kohli set to play 100th Test: Reliving former Indian captain's impressive run in whites</a>

Ahead of the SL Test series, Rohit told at the virtual&nbsp;press conference, on Thursday (March 03), "The best memory of Virat Kohli the Test captain will be winning the Test series in Australia in 2018." He also revealed the Test knock of Kohli he rates the best and said, "Lot of guys were playing in South Africa for the first time (in 2013-14 tour), to face the likes of Morkel, Steyn, it was never going to be easy but the way Virat batted in the first innings and second, it was one of the best knocks of his that I clearly remember. This beats his knock in Perth (2018)," explained Rohit.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bccis-new-central-contracts-kohli-rohit-bumrah-top-earners-rahane-pujara-hardik-demoted-report-458501">BCCI's new central contracts: Kohli, Rohit, Bumrah top earners, Rahane, Pujara &amp; Hardik demoted - Report</a>

Rohit added, "It has been a long journey for him and it has been a wonderful one. He has done exceedingly well in this format, he has changed so many things in the way the team is moving forward. It has been one hell of a ride for him and it will continue to be in the coming years."

Indian team will surely be eager to make Kohli's 100th Test a memorable affair with a win in the series opener versus Dimuth Karunaratne-led Islanders.

India are gearing up to face Sri Lanka in the series opener of the two-match Test series, which gets underway in Mohali on March 04. India's opening Test will also be former captain Virat Kohli's 100th outing in whites.

India are gearing up to face Sri Lanka in the series opener of the two-match Test series, which gets underway in Mohali on March 04. India's opening Test will also be former captain Virat Kohli's 100th outing in whites. Kohli will become only the 12th Indian to enter the 100-Test club. Kohli has had a wonderful run in the purest format for Team India. The 33-year-old has so far scored 7,962 runs in 99 Tests with 27 hundreds and 28 half-centuries in whites. Ahead of his landmark outing in the red-ball format, new full-time captain Rohit Sharma lavished praise on his predecessor and shared his best memory of Kohli in Test cricket. ALSO READ | Virat Kohli set to play 100th Test: Reliving former Indian captain's impressive run in whites Ahead of the SL Test series, Rohit told at the virtual press conference, on Thursday (March 03), "The best memory of Virat Kohli the Test captain will be winning the Test series in Australia in 2018." He also revealed the Test knock of Kohli he rates the best and said, "Lot of guys were playing in South Africa for the first time (in 2013-14 tour), to face the likes of Morkel, Steyn, it was never going to be easy but the way Virat batted in the first innings and second, it was one of the best knocks of his that I clearly remember. This beats his knock in Perth (2018)," explained Rohit. ALSO READ | BCCI's new central contracts: Kohli, Rohit, Bumrah top earners, Rahane, Pujara & Hardik demoted - Report Rohit added, "It has been a long journey for him and it has been a wonderful one. He has done exceedingly well in this format, he has changed so many things in the way the team is moving forward. It has been one hell of a ride for him and it will continue to be in the coming years." Indian team will surely be eager to make Kohli's 100th Test a memorable affair with a win in the series opener versus Dimuth Karunaratne-led Islanders.

Virat Kohli 100th Test: Rohit Sharma shares his best memory of former Indian captain in whites

Saudi Arabia will host all five groups in the western half of the Asian Champions League, the Asian Football Confederation announced on Thursday.

Riyadh will host matches involving defending champions Al Hilal in their home city in Group A, which also features Istiklol from Turkmenistan, Qatar's Al Rayyan and a playoff winner.

Group B, which involves Mumbai City, Al Jazira from the United Arab Emirates, Al Shabab of Saudi Arabia and Iraq's Air Force Club, will also play in Riyadh.

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Jeddah will host Foolad from Iran, Shabab Al Ahli Dubai, Al Gharafa of Qatar and Turkmenistan's Ahal in Group C, while Group D, featuring Sepahan of Iran, Al Duhail from Qatar, Uzbekistan`s Pakhtakor and a playoff winner, will be held in Buraidah.

Group E will be played in Dammam and will feature Qatar's Al Sadd, Al Faisaly from Saudi Arabia, Jordanian side Al Wehdat and a playoff winner.

Matches are scheduled to begin on April 7 with the winners of each group advancing to the last 16 alongside the three clubs with the best runners-up records.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/roman-abramovich-wants-to-get-rid-of-chelsea-so-he-offered-to-sell-it-says-swiss-billionaire-hansjorg-wyss-458199">Roman Abramovich wants to get rid of Chelsea so he offered to sell it, says Swiss billionaire Hansjorg Wyss</a>

The venues for the five groups in the eastern side of the draw were announced last month, with matches to be played in Thailand, Vietnam and Malaysia.

Games in the east will kick off on April 15.

The group phase in this year's Asian Champions League is being played in centralised biosecure bubbles to limit travel due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.

Saudi Arabia will host all five groups in the western half of the Asian Champions League, the Asian Football Confederation announced on Thursday. Riyadh will host matches involving defending champions Al Hilal in their home city in Group A, which also features Istiklol from Turkmenistan, Qatar's Al Rayyan and a playoff winner.

Saudi Arabia will host all five groups in the western half of the Asian Champions League, the Asian Football Confederation announced on Thursday. Riyadh will host matches involving defending champions Al Hilal in their home city in Group A, which also features Istiklol from Turkmenistan, Qatar's Al Rayyan and a playoff winner. Group B, which involves Mumbai City, Al Jazira from the United Arab Emirates, Al Shabab of Saudi Arabia and Iraq's Air Force Club, will also play in Riyadh. ALSO READ: Everton suspends all commercial sponsorships with Russian companies with immediate effect Jeddah will host Foolad from Iran, Shabab Al Ahli Dubai, Al Gharafa of Qatar and Turkmenistan's Ahal in Group C, while Group D, featuring Sepahan of Iran, Al Duhail from Qatar, Uzbekistan`s Pakhtakor and a playoff winner, will be held in Buraidah. Group E will be played in Dammam and will feature Qatar's Al Sadd, Al Faisaly from Saudi Arabia, Jordanian side Al Wehdat and a playoff winner. Matches are scheduled to begin on April 7 with the winners of each group advancing to the last 16 alongside the three clubs with the best runners-up records. ALSO READ: Roman Abramovich wants to get rid of Chelsea so he offered to sell it, says Swiss billionaire Hansjorg Wyss The venues for the five groups in the eastern side of the draw were announced last month, with matches to be played in Thailand, Vietnam and Malaysia. Games in the east will kick off on April 15. The group phase in this year's Asian Champions League is being played in centralised biosecure bubbles to limit travel due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.

Asian Champions League: Saudi Arabia set to host group matches

The Maharashtra government on Wednesday approved full-vaccinated spectators at 25 per cent of stadium capacity for the upcoming Indian Premier League matches, which are set to be held in Mumbai and Pune from March 26.

In an official statement issued in the evening here, the state government said considering that the COVID-19 cases have been on the decline, the crowd limit has been capped at 25 per cent and only fully vaccinated spectators will be permitted to enter the stadiums.

This was after the Maharashtra government on Wednesday conducted a meeting with BCCI and Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) for smooth conduct of the IPL, which is now a 10-team affair.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/former-csk-star-suresh-raina-not-in-consideration-for-hardik-pandyas-gujarat-titans-in-ipl-2022-sources-458443">Former CSK star Suresh Raina not in consideration for Hardik Pandya's Gujarat Titans in IPL 2022: Sources</a>

Ministers of the state government -- Aaditya Thackeray and Eknath Shinde -- along with MCA chief Vijay Patil and apex council members Ajinkya Naik and Abhay Hadap, treasurer Jagdish Achrekar, were present at the meeting.

Post the meeting, in a series of tweets, Aaditya Thackeray said, "To ensure the smooth flow of the @IPL, Minister @mieknathshinde Ji and I conducted a joint meeting of IPL, @BCCI with officers of Police and Municipal Corporations of Mumbai, Thane, Navi Mumbai."

He also said that the state's deputy Chief Minister would soon conduct a similar meeting for Pune, the other venue for IPL.

"For Pune, the meeting will be held soon, proposed to be chaired by DCM sir to ensure that the tournament is successfully carried out in all our city venues," said Aaditya, who is the son of Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/big-blow-to-ms-dhonis-csk-as-deepak-chahar-set-to-miss-majority-of-ipl-2022-edition-reports-458194">Big blow to MS Dhoni's CSK as Deepak Chahar set to miss majority of IPL 2022 edition - Reports</a>

"IPL coming to Maharashtra ensures that the games aren't played overseas. This is a huge boost for the country, as well as Maharashtra in terms of economy, morale and for the passion of cricket fans."

Earlier, it was learnt that IPL teams will start training in the city from March 14 or 15 onwards and five practice venues have been identified for them.

It is understood that the MCA ground in suburban Bandra Kurla Complex, MCA ground in Thane, the Dr DY Patil University ground and a football pitch along with the CCI (Cricket Club of India) and the Reliance Corporate Park ground in Ghansoli have been identified by the authorities as practice venues for the cash-rich tournament.

Players are likely to start coming into the city from March 8.

It is also understood that all the participants will have to undergo RT-PCR tests 48 hours prior to their arrival in Mumbai.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2022-teams-to-assemble-in-mumbai-by-march-8-3-5-days-quarantine-before-entering-bio-bubble-458163">IPL 2022: Teams to assemble in Mumbai by March 8; 3-5 days quarantine before entering bio-bubble</a>

Players will also have to undergo 3-5 days of quarantine before entering their respective bubbles.

In isolation, the participants will undergo in-room RT PCR testing three times -- first on day one, second on day three and the final one on day five.

In case of a three-day quarantine, the participants will get tested every day and if all the three results are negative, they will be permitted to exit quarantine and commence team activities.

It is also understood that all the participants/personnel associated with the conduct of IPL (bubble/non bubble) will undergo RT PCR testing every three to five days during the entire length of the tournament.

While 10 plush hotels have been identified in Mumbai, two hotels have been zeroed in for Pune.

It is also learnt that the teams would be reaching the venues for practice or the match venues through a special "green corridor" and will be allowed to use the Eastern Freeway to go to Navi Mumbai or Thane from south Mumbai.

The civic authorities have also been asked to "beautify" the cities where the games are happening.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/jason-roy-explains-reason-behind-pulling-out-of-ipl-2022-its-added-up-and-taken-a-toll-on-me-457807">Jason Roy explains reason behind pulling out of IPL 2022: It's added up and taken a toll on me</a>

The league stage of the IPL will be conducted in Mumbai and Pune.

While the Wankhede Stadium and Cricket Club of India will host 20 matches each, the DY Patil stadium and the Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium at Gahunje in Pune will organise 15 games.

It is learnt that double-headers will be played on 12 days.

The Maharashtra government on Wednesday approved full-vaccinated spectators at 25 per cent of stadium capacity for the upcoming Indian Premier League matches, which are set to be held in Mumbai and Pune from March 26.

The Maharashtra government on Wednesday approved full-vaccinated spectators at 25 per cent of stadium capacity for the upcoming Indian Premier League matches, which are set to be held in Mumbai and Pune from March 26. In an official statement issued in the evening here, the state government said considering that the COVID-19 cases have been on the decline, the crowd limit has been capped at 25 per cent and only fully vaccinated spectators will be permitted to enter the stadiums. This was after the Maharashtra government on Wednesday conducted a meeting with BCCI and Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) for smooth conduct of the IPL, which is now a 10-team affair. ALSO READ: Former CSK star Suresh Raina not in consideration for Hardik Pandya's Gujarat Titans in IPL 2022: Sources Ministers of the state government -- Aaditya Thackeray and Eknath Shinde -- along with MCA chief Vijay Patil and apex council members Ajinkya Naik and Abhay Hadap, treasurer Jagdish Achrekar, were present at the meeting. Post the meeting, in a series of tweets, Aaditya Thackeray said, "To ensure the smooth flow of the @IPL, Minister @mieknathshinde Ji and I conducted a joint meeting of IPL, @BCCI with officers of Police and Municipal Corporations of Mumbai, Thane, Navi Mumbai." He also said that the state's deputy Chief Minister would soon conduct a similar meeting for Pune, the other venue for IPL. "For Pune, the meeting will be held soon, proposed to be chaired by DCM sir to ensure that the tournament is successfully carried out in all our city venues," said Aaditya, who is the son of Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray. ALSO READ: Big blow to MS Dhoni's CSK as Deepak Chahar set to miss majority of IPL 2022 edition - Reports "IPL coming to Maharashtra ensures that the games aren't played overseas. This is a huge boost for the country, as well as Maharashtra in terms of economy, morale and for the passion of cricket fans." Earlier, it was learnt that IPL teams will start training in the city from March 14 or 15 onwards and five practice venues have been identified for them. It is understood that the MCA ground in suburban Bandra Kurla Complex, MCA ground in Thane, the Dr DY Patil University ground and a football pitch along with the CCI (Cricket Club of India) and the Reliance Corporate Park ground in Ghansoli have been identified by the authorities as practice venues for the cash-rich tournament. Players are likely to start coming into the city from March 8. It is also understood that all the participants will have to undergo RT-PCR tests 48 hours prior to their arrival in Mumbai. ALSO READ: IPL 2022: Teams to assemble in Mumbai by March 8; 3-5 days quarantine before entering bio-bubble Players will also have to undergo 3-5 days of quarantine before entering their respective bubbles. In isolation, the participants will undergo in-room RT PCR testing three times -- first on day one, second on day three and the final one on day five. In case of a three-day quarantine, the participants will get tested every day and if all the three results are negative, they will be permitted to exit quarantine and commence team activities. It is also understood that all the participants/personnel associated with the conduct of IPL (bubble/non bubble) will undergo RT PCR testing every three to five days during the entire length of the tournament. While 10 plush hotels have been identified in Mumbai, two hotels have been zeroed in for Pune. It is also learnt that the teams would be reaching the venues for practice or the match venues through a special "green corridor" and will be allowed to use the Eastern Freeway to go to Navi Mumbai or Thane from south Mumbai. The civic authorities have also been asked to "beautify" the cities where the games are happening. ALSO READ: Jason Roy explains reason behind pulling out of IPL 2022: It's added up and taken a toll on me The league stage of the IPL will be conducted in Mumbai and Pune. While the Wankhede Stadium and Cricket Club of India will host 20 matches each, the DY Patil stadium and the Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium at Gahunje in Pune will organise 15 games. It is learnt that double-headers will be played on 12 days.

IPL 2022: Maharashtra Govt allows 25% spectators in stadiums; teams to start training by mid-March

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