<p>After the stupendous success of the Tokyo Summer Olympics, held last year amid the Covid-19 virus threat, the action now shifts to the Beijing Winter Olympics. The 2022 Winter Olympics is set to&nbsp;officially get underway on February 4 and will last till February 20.</p>

<p>The more than fortnight-long Beijing Games will see a record 109 events over 15 disciplines, spanning across seven sports, with around 2600-plus athletes fighting hard and competing for top laurels. For the unversed, the sports of&nbsp;disciplines&nbsp;include Biathlon, Bobsledding, Curling, Ice hockey, Luge, Skating, Skiing. Among the various athletes, from different parts of the world, India have only one representative in the form of Kashmir's Arif Khan.</p>

<p>The 31-year-old&nbsp;Arif&nbsp;is the only Indian featuring in&nbsp;the Winter Olympics, contrary to the Tokyo Games where India sent its largest-ever contingent. The&nbsp;skier from Gulmarg, Kashmir entered the record books after&nbsp;becoming&nbsp;the first from the country to qualify for two events at the Winter Olympics in January, 2022&nbsp;when he&nbsp;confirmed his place&nbsp;for the alpine skiing slalom and the giant slalom event consecutively.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/meet-31-year-old-indian-skier-arif-khan-who-heads-to-beijing-with-hopes-to-bag-medal-at-winter-olympics-448670"><strong>Meet 31-year-old Indian skier Arif Khan who heads to Beijing with hopes to bag medal at Winter Olympics</strong></a></p>

<p>'It's a very inspiring and motivational moment for me. I will be going for the Olympics and representing 1.4 billion people. I started skiing back in 1994 and since then, I have never looked back. I continued my training across Europe and since 2008, I have been professionally into this sport and have been also training for the Olympic games. I have participated in world championships and international level games, Asian games and other continental championships. After more than 127 international participations, I have realised that I could be one of the best athletes in the world, '' Arif had earlier said to WION.</p>

<p>He added, ''I am very happy with the support that the government has provided me. For a year, I have been provided with whatever requirements I have had from them. Training, travel and other facilities have been provided to me. I always thought we needed someone to create the path to achieve something big and I feel very good to be one of them and I would give my best performance. I have a dream to win a medal and would try my best to perform on the slopes."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/beijing-olympics-eleven-personnel-in-hospital-with-covid-19-virus-none-serious-449794">Beijing Olympics: Eleven personnel in hospital with COVID-19 virus, none serious</a></strong></p>

<p><strong>Broadcasting details of Beijing 2022 events</strong></p>

<p>For the sports fanatics, Sony has the broadcast rights for India for Beijing 2022 events. Online updates, on the other hand, will be available at the Winter Olympics website. Alpine skier Arif's event will take place on February 13 and 16.</p>


After the stupendous success of the Tokyo Summer Olympics, held last year amid the Covid-19 virus threat, the action now shifts to the Beijing Winter Olympics. The 2022 Winter Olympics is set to officially get underway on February 4 and will last till February 20.

After the stupendous success of the Tokyo Summer Olympics, held last year amid the Covid-19 virus threat, the action now shifts to the Beijing Winter Olympics. The 2022 Winter Olympics is set to officially get underway on February 4 and will last till February 20. The more than fortnight-long Beijing Games will see a record 109 events over 15 disciplines, spanning across seven sports, with around 2600-plus athletes fighting hard and competing for top laurels. For the unversed, the sports of disciplines include Biathlon, Bobsledding, Curling, Ice hockey, Luge, Skating, Skiing. Among the various athletes, from different parts of the world, India have only one representative in the form of Kashmir's Arif Khan. The 31-year-old Arif is the only Indian featuring in the Winter Olympics, contrary to the Tokyo Games where India sent its largest-ever contingent. The skier from Gulmarg, Kashmir entered the record books after becoming the first from the country to qualify for two events at the Winter Olympics in January, 2022 when he confirmed his place for the alpine skiing slalom and the giant slalom event consecutively. ALSO READ | Meet 31-year-old Indian skier Arif Khan who heads to Beijing with hopes to bag medal at Winter Olympics 'It's a very inspiring and motivational moment for me. I will be going for the Olympics and representing 1.4 billion people. I started skiing back in 1994 and since then, I have never looked back. I continued my training across Europe and since 2008, I have been professionally into this sport and have been also training for the Olympic games. I have participated in world championships and international level games, Asian games and other continental championships. After more than 127 international participations, I have realised that I could be one of the best athletes in the world, '' Arif had earlier said to WION. He added, ''I am very happy with the support that the government has provided me. For a year, I have been provided with whatever requirements I have had from them. Training, travel and other facilities have been provided to me. I always thought we needed someone to create the path to achieve something big and I feel very good to be one of them and I would give my best performance. I have a dream to win a medal and would try my best to perform on the slopes." ALSO READ | Beijing Olympics: Eleven personnel in hospital with COVID-19 virus, none serious Broadcasting details of Beijing 2022 events For the sports fanatics, Sony has the broadcast rights for India for Beijing 2022 events. Online updates, on the other hand, will be available at the Winter Olympics website. Alpine skier Arif's event will take place on February 13 and 16.

Beijing Olympics 2022: Who is Arif Khan? India's sole representative in marquee event

<p>Neeraj Chopra, India`s first ever winner of an Olympic athletics gold medal, has been nominated for the 2022 Laureus World Breakthrough of the Year Award. He is one of the six nominees for the prestigious Award.<br />
<br />
With his second throw measuring 87.58 metres, Chopra became the first Indian track and field athlete to win an individual Olympic gold medal during the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, the other being Abhinav Bindra in air rifle in 2008.<br />
<br />
He is only the third Indian athlete to be nominated for a Laureus Award, after wrestler Vinesh Phogat in 2019 and cricket maestro Sachin Tendulkar, who won the Laureus Sporting Moment Award 2000-2020, which marked the emotional moment during the 2011 ICC World Cup, when his team carried him on their shoulders in a lap of honour after India`s win.<br />
<br />
"I`m delighted to be nominated for this Laureus Award and it`s a great honour for me to be recognised in the wider sporting world for what I achieved in Tokyo," said an elated Chopra, after being nominated for the award.<br />
<br />
"From being a kid in a small village in rural India who only took up sport to get fit, to standing on top of an Olympic podium, it`s been quite an eventful journey so far. I feel privileged to be able to represent my country and win India medals at the global stage, and now to have this recognition from Laureus and be considered alongside such exceptional athletes is a really special feeling," he added.<br />
<br />
Apart from Neeraj, the other five sportspersons who have been nominated for for the Breakthrough Award are -- Britain`s Emma Raducanu, who became a global tennis sensation when she won the US Open at the age of 18, Russia`s Daniil Medvedev, who won the men`s title at Flushing Meadows, FC Barcelona`s football prodigy Pedri, aged 19, voted best young player at the Ballon d`Or, Yulimar Rojas, who broke the 26-year-old triple jump world record, and swimmer Ariarne Titmus, aged 20, who twice beat champion Katie Ledecky at 200 and 400m in Tokyo.<br />
<br />
A panel of more than 1,300 of the leading sports journalists and broadcasters in the world have selected the nominees in each of seven categories for this year`s Laureus World Sports Awards. The Winners will be revealed in April, following a vote by the Laureus World Sports Academy, the world`s ultimate sports jury, made up of 71 of the greatest sporting legends of all time.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sports-budget-increased-by-rs-30558-crore-emphasis-on-khelo-india-and-national-youth-schemes-449652"><strong>Sports Budget increased by Rs 305.58 crore, emphasis on Khelo India and National Youth Schemes</strong></a></p>

<p><strong>The full list of Nominees :<br />
<br />
Laureus World Sportsman of the Year Award:</strong><br />
<br />
Tom Brady (USA) American Football - the greatest NFL quarterback, he won a record seventh Super Bowl<br />
<br />
Novak Djokovic (Serbia) Tennis - won three Grand Slams in 2021 to take his total of career wins to 20<br />
<br />
Caeleb Dressel (USA) Swimming - outstanding male swimmer in Tokyo with five Olympic gold medals<br />
<br />
Eliud Kipchoge (Kenya) Athletics - became third person in history to win back-to-back Olympic marathons<br />
<br />
Robert Lewandowski (Poland) Football - surpassed Gerd Muller`s record of 40 goals in a season for Bayern<br />
<br />
Max Verstappen (Netherlands) Motor Racing - won his first Formula One World Championship in 2021<br />
<br />
Laureus World Sportswoman of the Year award:<br />
<br />
Ashleigh Barty (Australia) Tennis - world No.1, won Wimbledon, her second career Grand Slam<br />
<br />
Allyson Felix (USA) Athletics - surpassed Carl Lewis as the most decorated track and field US Olympian<br />
<br />
Katie Ledecky (USA) Swimming - won 800 and 1,500 metres freestyle golds in Tokyo, plus two silver medals<br />
<br />
Emma McKeon (Australia) Swimming - won four gold and three bronze in Tokyo, the most by an individual<br />
<br />
Alexia Putellas (Spain) Football - Barcelona captain; won Ballon d`Or and UEFA Women`s Player of Year<br />
<br />
Elaine Thompson-Herah (Jamaica) Athletics - won Olympic 100 and 200 metres and 4x100m relay</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-ms-dhoni-to-pv-sindhu-5-indian-athletes-who-have-been-honoured-with-padma-bhushan-award-447547">From MS Dhoni to PV Sindhu: 5 Indian athletes who have been honoured with Padma Bhushan award</a></strong></p>

<p><strong>Laureus World Team of the Year Award:</strong><br />
<br />
Argentina Men`s Football Team - won Copa America; Lionel Messi`s first international trophy, at age of 34<br />
<br />
Barcelona Women`s Football Team (Spain) - won first Champions League, beating English club Chelsea 4-0 China Olympic Diving Team - won gold medals in seven of the eight events staged in the pool in Tokyo<br />
<br />
Italy Men`s Football Team - under Roberto Mancini won European Championship for first time since 1968 Mercedes-AMG Petronas Formula One Team (Germany) - won record eighth Constructors Championship<br />
<br />
Milwaukee Bucks (USA) Basketball - inspired by Giannis Antetokounmpo, won a second NBA championship<br />
<br />
Laureus World Breakthrough of the Year award:<br />
<br />
Neeraj Chopra (India) Athletics - won javelin to become India`s first winner of an Olympic athletics gold<br />
<br />
Daniil Medvedev (Russia) Tennis - won his first ever Grand Slam, dropping only one set in the US Open<br />
<br />
Pedri (Spain) Football - 19, played 53 times in 2020/21 for Barcelona, and every game for Spain in Euro 2020<br />
<br />
Emma Raducanu (UK) Tennis - became a global sensation when she won the US Open at the age of 18<br />
<br />
Yulimar Rojas (Venezuela) Athletics - broke 26-year-old world record to win triple jump gold in Tokyo<br />
<br />
Ariarne Titmus (Australia) Swimming - aged 20, beat champion Katie Ledecky at 200 and 400m in Tokyo<br />
<br />
Laureus World Comeback of the Year award:<br />
<br />
Simone Biles (USA) Gymnastics - after withdrawing in Tokyo, she came back to win bronze in the beam<br />
<br />
Sky Brown (UK) Skateboarding - aged 13, recovered from fractured skull to win bronze medal in Tokyo<br />
<br />
Mark Cavendish (UK) Cycling - fought back from depression to win second Tour de France sprint title<br />
<br />
Tom Daley (UK) Diving - had knee surgery in June, but won 10 metres synchronised gold in Tokyo<br />
<br />
Marc Márquez (Spain) Motor Cycling - first win in 581 days, after recovering from broken arm at start of 2020<br />
<br />
Annemiek van Vleuten (Netherlands) Cycling - won Olympic time trial days after missing gold in road race<br />
<br />
Laureus World Sportsperson of the Year with a Disability Award:<br />
<br />
Diede De Groot (Netherlands) Wheelchair Tennis - first player to complete the calendar-year Golden Slam<br />
<br />
Marcel Hug (Switz) Wheelchair Athletics - won Paralympic gold medals in 800, 1,500, 5,000m and marathon<br />
<br />
Shingo Kunieda (Japan) Wheelchair Tennis - host-nation hero, won fourth Paralympic gold of his career<br />
<br />
Jetze Plat (Netherlands) Para Cycling / Para Triathlon - won three Paralympic gold medals in two sports<br />
<br />
Susana Rodríguez (Spain) Para Triathlon - won gold in Tokyo in triathlon PTVI, her first Paralympic medal<br />
<br />
Sarah Storey (UK) Para Cycling - won three golds from three events to take her career total to 17<br />
<br />
Laureus World Action Sportsperson of the Year Award:<br />
<br />
Ítalo Ferreira (Brazil) Surfing - in Tokyo became the first-ever surfing Olympic gold medal winner<br />
<br />
Alberto Ginés (Spain) Climbing - aged 18, scaled 15-metre wall in 6.42 seconds to win speed climbing gold<br />
<br />
Yuto Horigome (Japan) Skateboarding - won first ever skateboarding Olympic gold to delight of host nation<br />
<br />
Carissa Moore (USA) Surfing - won first ever women`s Olympic surfing gold, then added her fifth world title<br />
<br />
Momiji Nishiya (Japan) Skateboarding - at 13, won first-ever Olympic gold medal in women`s street event<br />
<br />
Bethany Shriever (UK) BMX - first woman to win both Olympic and World Championship gold in same year<br />
<br />
Laureus Sport for Good Award<br />
<br />
Programmes nominated by a specialist selection panel; Laureus Academy select the winner<br />
<br />
Ich Will Da Rauf! (Germany) Climbing - disabled and non-disabled share challenge of the climbing wall<br />
<br />
Juca pe Cagna (Italy) Multi-sport - provides safe places to play away from the influence of crime<br />
<br />
Kick 4 Life (Lesotho) Football - supports young people through health education and HIV testing<br />
<br />
Lost Boyz Inc (USA) Baseball - uses baseball in Chicago to decrease violence and improve social conditions<br />
<br />
Monkey Magic (Japan) Climbing - promotes free climbing for those with visual impairment</p>


Neeraj Chopra, India`s first ever winner of an Olympic athletics gold medal, has been nominated for the 2022 Laureus World Breakthrough of the Year Award. He is one of the six nominees for the prestigious Award.

Neeraj Chopra, India`s first ever winner of an Olympic athletics gold medal, has been nominated for the 2022 Laureus World Breakthrough of the Year Award. He is one of the six nominees for the prestigious Award. With his second throw measuring 87.58 metres, Chopra became the first Indian track and field athlete to win an individual Olympic gold medal during the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, the other being Abhinav Bindra in air rifle in 2008. He is only the third Indian athlete to be nominated for a Laureus Award, after wrestler Vinesh Phogat in 2019 and cricket maestro Sachin Tendulkar, who won the Laureus Sporting Moment Award 2000-2020, which marked the emotional moment during the 2011 ICC World Cup, when his team carried him on their shoulders in a lap of honour after India`s win. "I`m delighted to be nominated for this Laureus Award and it`s a great honour for me to be recognised in the wider sporting world for what I achieved in Tokyo," said an elated Chopra, after being nominated for the award. "From being a kid in a small village in rural India who only took up sport to get fit, to standing on top of an Olympic podium, it`s been quite an eventful journey so far. I feel privileged to be able to represent my country and win India medals at the global stage, and now to have this recognition from Laureus and be considered alongside such exceptional athletes is a really special feeling," he added. Apart from Neeraj, the other five sportspersons who have been nominated for for the Breakthrough Award are -- Britain`s Emma Raducanu, who became a global tennis sensation when she won the US Open at the age of 18, Russia`s Daniil Medvedev, who won the men`s title at Flushing Meadows, FC Barcelona`s football prodigy Pedri, aged 19, voted best young player at the Ballon d`Or, Yulimar Rojas, who broke the 26-year-old triple jump world record, and swimmer Ariarne Titmus, aged 20, who twice beat champion Katie Ledecky at 200 and 400m in Tokyo. A panel of more than 1,300 of the leading sports journalists and broadcasters in the world have selected the nominees in each of seven categories for this year`s Laureus World Sports Awards. The Winners will be revealed in April, following a vote by the Laureus World Sports Academy, the world`s ultimate sports jury, made up of 71 of the greatest sporting legends of all time. ALSO READ | Sports Budget increased by Rs 305.58 crore, emphasis on Khelo India and National Youth Schemes The full list of Nominees : Laureus World Sportsman of the Year Award: Tom Brady (USA) American Football - the greatest NFL quarterback, he won a record seventh Super Bowl Novak Djokovic (Serbia) Tennis - won three Grand Slams in 2021 to take his total of career wins to 20 Caeleb Dressel (USA) Swimming - outstanding male swimmer in Tokyo with five Olympic gold medals Eliud Kipchoge (Kenya) Athletics - became third person in history to win back-to-back Olympic marathons Robert Lewandowski (Poland) Football - surpassed Gerd Muller`s record of 40 goals in a season for Bayern Max Verstappen (Netherlands) Motor Racing - won his first Formula One World Championship in 2021 Laureus World Sportswoman of the Year award: Ashleigh Barty (Australia) Tennis - world No.1, won Wimbledon, her second career Grand Slam Allyson Felix (USA) Athletics - surpassed Carl Lewis as the most decorated track and field US Olympian Katie Ledecky (USA) Swimming - won 800 and 1,500 metres freestyle golds in Tokyo, plus two silver medals Emma McKeon (Australia) Swimming - won four gold and three bronze in Tokyo, the most by an individual Alexia Putellas (Spain) Football - Barcelona captain; won Ballon d`Or and UEFA Women`s Player of Year Elaine Thompson-Herah (Jamaica) Athletics - won Olympic 100 and 200 metres and 4x100m relay ALSO READ | From MS Dhoni to PV Sindhu: 5 Indian athletes who have been honoured with Padma Bhushan award Laureus World Team of the Year Award: Argentina Men`s Football Team - won Copa America; Lionel Messi`s first international trophy, at age of 34 Barcelona Women`s Football Team (Spain) - won first Champions League, beating English club Chelsea 4-0 China Olympic Diving Team - won gold medals in seven of the eight events staged in the pool in Tokyo Italy Men`s Football Team - under Roberto Mancini won European Championship for first time since 1968 Mercedes-AMG Petronas Formula One Team (Germany) - won record eighth Constructors Championship Milwaukee Bucks (USA) Basketball - inspired by Giannis Antetokounmpo, won a second NBA championship Laureus World Breakthrough of the Year award: Neeraj Chopra (India) Athletics - won javelin to become India`s first winner of an Olympic athletics gold Daniil Medvedev (Russia) Tennis - won his first ever Grand Slam, dropping only one set in the US Open Pedri (Spain) Football - 19, played 53 times in 2020/21 for Barcelona, and every game for Spain in Euro 2020 Emma Raducanu (UK) Tennis - became a global sensation when she won the US Open at the age of 18 Yulimar Rojas (Venezuela) Athletics - broke 26-year-old world record to win triple jump gold in Tokyo Ariarne Titmus (Australia) Swimming - aged 20, beat champion Katie Ledecky at 200 and 400m in Tokyo Laureus World Comeback of the Year award: Simone Biles (USA) Gymnastics - after withdrawing in Tokyo, she came back to win bronze in the beam Sky Brown (UK) Skateboarding - aged 13, recovered from fractured skull to win bronze medal in Tokyo Mark Cavendish (UK) Cycling - fought back from depression to win second Tour de France sprint title Tom Daley (UK) Diving - had knee surgery in June, but won 10 metres synchronised gold in Tokyo Marc Márquez (Spain) Motor Cycling - first win in 581 days, after recovering from broken arm at start of 2020 Annemiek van Vleuten (Netherlands) Cycling - won Olympic time trial days after missing gold in road race Laureus World Sportsperson of the Year with a Disability Award: Diede De Groot (Netherlands) Wheelchair Tennis - first player to complete the calendar-year Golden Slam Marcel Hug (Switz) Wheelchair Athletics - won Paralympic gold medals in 800, 1,500, 5,000m and marathon Shingo Kunieda (Japan) Wheelchair Tennis - host-nation hero, won fourth Paralympic gold of his career Jetze Plat (Netherlands) Para Cycling / Para Triathlon - won three Paralympic gold medals in two sports Susana Rodríguez (Spain) Para Triathlon - won gold in Tokyo in triathlon PTVI, her first Paralympic medal Sarah Storey (UK) Para Cycling - won three golds from three events to take her career total to 17 Laureus World Action Sportsperson of the Year Award: Ítalo Ferreira (Brazil) Surfing - in Tokyo became the first-ever surfing Olympic gold medal winner Alberto Ginés (Spain) Climbing - aged 18, scaled 15-metre wall in 6.42 seconds to win speed climbing gold Yuto Horigome (Japan) Skateboarding - won first ever skateboarding Olympic gold to delight of host nation Carissa Moore (USA) Surfing - won first ever women`s Olympic surfing gold, then added her fifth world title Momiji Nishiya (Japan) Skateboarding - at 13, won first-ever Olympic gold medal in women`s street event Bethany Shriever (UK) BMX - first woman to win both Olympic and World Championship gold in same year Laureus Sport for Good Award Programmes nominated by a specialist selection panel; Laureus Academy select the winner Ich Will Da Rauf! (Germany) Climbing - disabled and non-disabled share challenge of the climbing wall Juca pe Cagna (Italy) Multi-sport - provides safe places to play away from the influence of crime Kick 4 Life (Lesotho) Football - supports young people through health education and HIV testing Lost Boyz Inc (USA) Baseball - uses baseball in Chicago to decrease violence and improve social conditions Monkey Magic (Japan) Climbing - promotes free climbing for those with visual impairment

India's Golden Boy Neeraj Chopra nominated for Laureus World Sports Awards

<p>FC Barcelona and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang have reached an agreement for the player to join the club after the striker terminated his contract with Arsenal FC, the La Liga club said on Wednesday. "The player will sign a contract until June 30, 2025 with an option to agree departure on June 30, 2023 and his buy out clause will be set at 100 million euros," FC Barcelona said in a statement. "Shortly the Club will provide details of Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang`s presentation as a first team player," it added.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/man-united-striker-mason-greenwood-released-on-bail-pending-further-investigation-449882"><strong>Man United striker Mason Greenwood released on bail ''pending further investigation''</strong></a></p>

<p>Aubameyang had joined Arsenal from Borussia Dortmund in January 2018 and won the Premier League Golden Boot in his first full season in 2018/19. He scored both goals in the 2020 FA Cup final win over Chelsea and scored again at Wembley as Arsenal won the FA Community Shield against Liverpool at the start of last season.</p>


FC Barcelona and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang have reached an agreement for the player to join the club after the striker terminated his contract with Arsenal FC, the La Liga club said on Wednesday.

FC Barcelona and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang have reached an agreement for the player to join the club after the striker terminated his contract with Arsenal FC, the La Liga club said on Wednesday. "The player will sign a contract until June 30, 2025 with an option to agree departure on June 30, 2023 and his buy out clause will be set at 100 million euros," FC Barcelona said in a statement. "Shortly the Club will provide details of Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang`s presentation as a first team player," it added. ALSO READ | Man United striker Mason Greenwood released on bail ''pending further investigation'' Aubameyang had joined Arsenal from Borussia Dortmund in January 2018 and won the Premier League Golden Boot in his first full season in 2018/19. He scored both goals in the 2020 FA Cup final win over Chelsea and scored again at Wembley as Arsenal won the FA Community Shield against Liverpool at the start of last season.

La Liga: FC Barcelona rope in Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang as he terminates contract with Arsenal

From Beijing Olympics to Indo-Pak series: When politics and sports collided

<p>In the upcoming India-West Indies ODI series, in India, the country's cricket fans are set to see the reunion of the famous spin pair -- Yuzvendra Chahal and Kuldeep Yadav. The two have been one of India's biggest match-winners since mid-2017, after Virat Kohli &amp; Co. moved past R Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja in the white-ball formats.</p>

<p>While Jadeja returned to the limited-overs setup in 2018, Chahal-Kuldeep continued to form a strong pair in white-ball cricket for Team India till the 2019 ODI World Cup. A lot of credit for the spin duo's rise goes to former Indian captain MS Dhoni, who kept on advising the two spinners from behind the stumps.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2022-mega-event-to-be-held-in-india-franchises-eager-for-bcci-to-finalise-venues-report-449770"><strong>IPL 2022: Mega event to be held in India; franchises eager for BCCI to finalise venues - Report</strong></a></p>

<p>Speaking to veteran off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin on his Youtube channel, Chahal recently revealed an episode where he was thrashed left, right and centre during a India-South Africa T20I, 2018, and how Dhoni came to his rescue. He said,&nbsp;"Once, I got hit for 64 runs in a T20I against South Africa in 2018; (Heinrich) Klaasen had smashed me all over the park. Then Mahi (Dhoni) bhai had asked me to come around the wicket. I did exactly that but he hit me for a six over the biggest boundary at mid-wicket."</p>

<p>"Then Mahi bhai came to me and I said, ‘<em>Yes Mahi bhai, ab kya karna hai</em>? (What should I do now?). He said ‘<em>Kuch nahi, mai to waisehi aagaya tere paas</em>&nbsp;(Nothing, I just came to check upon you). I know it’s not your day, you are trying but it isn’t happening.&nbsp;<em>Zyada sochna nahi, apne chaar ka quota khatam kar aur chill kar&nbsp;</em>(Don’t think too much, just finish your four overs and chill."</p>

<p>Chahal bowled his most expensive spell in the shortest format, 4-0-64-0 during the second and penultimate T20I between both sides in South Africa in early 2018. The 30-year-old further asserted that had someone scolded him after leaking runs at will, it would have affected him severely but Dhoni chose to lift his spirits. "If someone scolds you at that time, your confidence goes down even further. But he told me that it's just one match as you did so well in ODIs. I also realized that in cricket sometimes you do well and sometimes you don't," he added.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/remember-ms-dhoni-saying-very-clearly-dinesh-karthik-reacts-to-virat-kohlis-captaincy-saga-449603"><strong>'Remember MS Dhoni saying very clearly...' Dinesh Karthik reacts to Virat Kohli's captaincy saga</strong></a></p>

<p>Chahal had a forgettable run in the India-SA ODI series, early this year, and will now hope to move past his struggles to cement his spot in the white-ball formats in the upcoming WI series. Rohit Sharma-led India play the Windies in three ODIs, in Ahmedabad, starting on February 6. It will be followed by equaln number of T20Is, in Kolkata.</p>


In the upcoming India-West Indies ODI series, in India, the country's cricket fans are set to see the reunion of the famous spin pair -- Yuzvendra Chahal and Kuldeep Yadav.

In the upcoming India-West Indies ODI series, in India, the country's cricket fans are set to see the reunion of the famous spin pair -- Yuzvendra Chahal and Kuldeep Yadav. The two have been one of India's biggest match-winners since mid-2017, after Virat Kohli & Co. moved past R Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja in the white-ball formats. While Jadeja returned to the limited-overs setup in 2018, Chahal-Kuldeep continued to form a strong pair in white-ball cricket for Team India till the 2019 ODI World Cup. A lot of credit for the spin duo's rise goes to former Indian captain MS Dhoni, who kept on advising the two spinners from behind the stumps. ALSO READ | IPL 2022: Mega event to be held in India; franchises eager for BCCI to finalise venues - Report Speaking to veteran off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin on his Youtube channel, Chahal recently revealed an episode where he was thrashed left, right and centre during a India-South Africa T20I, 2018, and how Dhoni came to his rescue. He said, "Once, I got hit for 64 runs in a T20I against South Africa in 2018; (Heinrich) Klaasen had smashed me all over the park. Then Mahi (Dhoni) bhai had asked me to come around the wicket. I did exactly that but he hit me for a six over the biggest boundary at mid-wicket." "Then Mahi bhai came to me and I said, ‘Yes Mahi bhai, ab kya karna hai? (What should I do now?). He said ‘Kuch nahi, mai to waisehi aagaya tere paas (Nothing, I just came to check upon you). I know it’s not your day, you are trying but it isn’t happening. Zyada sochna nahi, apne chaar ka quota khatam kar aur chill kar (Don’t think too much, just finish your four overs and chill." Chahal bowled his most expensive spell in the shortest format, 4-0-64-0 during the second and penultimate T20I between both sides in South Africa in early 2018. The 30-year-old further asserted that had someone scolded him after leaking runs at will, it would have affected him severely but Dhoni chose to lift his spirits. "If someone scolds you at that time, your confidence goes down even further. But he told me that it's just one match as you did so well in ODIs. I also realized that in cricket sometimes you do well and sometimes you don't," he added. ALSO READ | 'Remember MS Dhoni saying very clearly...' Dinesh Karthik reacts to Virat Kohli's captaincy saga Chahal had a forgettable run in the India-SA ODI series, early this year, and will now hope to move past his struggles to cement his spot in the white-ball formats in the upcoming WI series. Rohit Sharma-led India play the Windies in three ODIs, in Ahmedabad, starting on February 6. It will be followed by equaln number of T20Is, in Kolkata.

'Just finish your.....' - Yuzi Chahal reveals MS Dhoni's advice after he leaked 64 runs in a T20I vs SA

<p>India's limited-overs vice-captain KL Rahul has climbed up the ladder in the latest ICC T20I Rankings. With this, he has swapped places with England's Dawid Malan, who takes the fourth spot in the list spearheaded by Pakistan's Babar Azam.</p>

<p>The top-two batting spots are occupied by Pakistani openers -- Babar (on top with&nbsp;805 rating points) and Md Rizwan taking the second spot. South Africa's Aiden Markram (796 points) is at the fourth position. For Virat Kohli and white-ball captain Rohit Sharma, India's two mainstays with the bat,&nbsp;the former is at the tenth spot whereas Rohit follows suit.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2022-mega-event-to-be-held-in-india-franchises-eager-for-bcci-to-finalise-venues-report-449770"><strong>IPL 2022: Mega event to be held in India; franchises eager for BCCI to finalise venues - Report</strong></a></p>

<p><strong>JASON HOLDER MAKES A GIANT LEAP</strong></p>

<p>Left-arm spinner Akeal Hosein and fast-bowling all-rounder Jason Holder&nbsp;achieved career-best rankings in the bowling list following the end of the five-match T20I series between West Indies and England, in&nbsp;the Caribbean island. Meanwhile, there is not even a single Indian bowler in the top 15. Under-fire senior pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar sits at the 19th spot.<br />
&nbsp;<br />
While Hosein has moved up 15 places to take the&nbsp;18th position -- returning with six scalps in the three&nbsp;games he featured in during the&nbsp;WI-England T20Is -- all-rounder Holder has moved up by three places to 23rd with a huge gain of 20 rating points. The lanky all-rounder ended with 15 wickets (including a hat-trick)&nbsp;to also walk away with the Player-of-the-Series award.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/4-wickets-in-4-balls-jason-holder-becomes-first-west-indies-bowler-to-take-a-t20i-hat-trick-watch-449246"><strong>4 wickets in 4 balls! Jason Holder becomes first West Indies bowler to take a T20I hat-trick - Watch</strong></a></p>

<p>Shakib Al Hasan occupies the 20th position whereas India's pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah is at the 25th spot. In the all-rounders' category, Moeen Ali has jumped up by six spots to enter the top 3. Mohammad Nabi leads the chart with Glenn Maxwell also featuring in the top 5, occupying the fourth spot.</p>


India's limited-overs vice-captain KL Rahul has climbed up the ladder in the latest ICC T20I Rankings. With this, he has swapped places with England's Dawid Malan, who takes the fourth spot in the list spearheaded by Pakistan's Babar Azam.

India's limited-overs vice-captain KL Rahul has climbed up the ladder in the latest ICC T20I Rankings. With this, he has swapped places with England's Dawid Malan, who takes the fourth spot in the list spearheaded by Pakistan's Babar Azam. The top-two batting spots are occupied by Pakistani openers -- Babar (on top with 805 rating points) and Md Rizwan taking the second spot. South Africa's Aiden Markram (796 points) is at the fourth position. For Virat Kohli and white-ball captain Rohit Sharma, India's two mainstays with the bat, the former is at the tenth spot whereas Rohit follows suit. ALSO READ | IPL 2022: Mega event to be held in India; franchises eager for BCCI to finalise venues - Report JASON HOLDER MAKES A GIANT LEAP Left-arm spinner Akeal Hosein and fast-bowling all-rounder Jason Holder achieved career-best rankings in the bowling list following the end of the five-match T20I series between West Indies and England, in the Caribbean island. Meanwhile, there is not even a single Indian bowler in the top 15. Under-fire senior pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar sits at the 19th spot. While Hosein has moved up 15 places to take the 18th position -- returning with six scalps in the three games he featured in during the WI-England T20Is -- all-rounder Holder has moved up by three places to 23rd with a huge gain of 20 rating points. The lanky all-rounder ended with 15 wickets (including a hat-trick) to also walk away with the Player-of-the-Series award. ALSO READ | 4 wickets in 4 balls! Jason Holder becomes first West Indies bowler to take a T20I hat-trick - Watch Shakib Al Hasan occupies the 20th position whereas India's pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah is at the 25th spot. In the all-rounders' category, Moeen Ali has jumped up by six spots to enter the top 3. Mohammad Nabi leads the chart with Glenn Maxwell also featuring in the top 5, occupying the fourth spot.

ICC T20I Rankings: KL Rahul climbs up the ladder; Jason Holder makes huge gain after England series

<p>The IPL 2022 mega auction is just a few days away. The excitement among the ardent IPL fans is on another level as the mega auction returns after four long years. With the addition of two new more teams, in the form of Ahmedabad and Lucknow, all eyes are on how the new franchises will form their sides from scratch whereas&nbsp;it will be interesting to see how&nbsp;the eight old teams&nbsp;revamp and re-build after releasing some key players.</p>

<p>Among the non-retained players, the likes of David Warner, Kagiso Rabada, Shikhar Dhawan, Suresh Raina, Shreyas Iyer, Ishan Kishan, Devdutt Padikkal, etc. are set to go under the radar. Ahead of the mega auction, former Indian opener Aakash Chopra has made a bold revelation, saying that Iyer is set to be the most expensive player and Virat Kohli-starrer Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) have kept a whopping amount aside for him.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2022-mega-event-to-be-held-in-india-franchises-eager-for-bcci-to-finalise-venues-report-449770"><strong>IPL 2022: Mega event to be held in India; franchises eager for BCCI to finalise venues - Report</strong></a></p>

<p>Chopra said in a video on his YouTube channel, “Shreyas Iyer could be a potential captain of KKR or RCB. I don't think Punjab would be looking at him."</p>

<p>He further opined, "Someone told me that RCB has kept 20cr (INR 200 million) for Shreyas Iyer in IPL 2022 Mega Auction. The most expensive player, to be very honest, is going to be Shreyas Iyer. In this list, the most expensive will be Iyer because Ishan Kishan is not there. If Ishan was there, there could've been a tug of war. Now, they will reserve money for Ishan and money will be splashed out for Iyer."</p>

<p>For the foreign players, Chopra added, “The three most expensive overseas players will be Rabada, and then one of Quinton de Kock or David Warner will be the most expensive overseas player as well. There's a good possibility."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/not-warner-or-dhawan-chopra-predicts-indian-youngster-as-most-expensive-opener-in-ipl-2022-auction-449533"><strong>Not Warner or Dhawan! Chopra predicts Indian youngster as 'most expensive opener' in IPL 2022 auction</strong></a></p>

<p>It will be interesting to see if Iyer goes to the RCB camp. Under him, the Delhi franchise played their first-ever finale, in the 2020 season. He has amassed&nbsp;2,375 in 87 games at a strike-rate of&nbsp;123.96.</p>


The IPL 2022 mega auction is just a few days away. The excitement among the ardent IPL fans is on another level as the mega auction returns after four long years.

The IPL 2022 mega auction is just a few days away. The excitement among the ardent IPL fans is on another level as the mega auction returns after four long years. With the addition of two new more teams, in the form of Ahmedabad and Lucknow, all eyes are on how the new franchises will form their sides from scratch whereas it will be interesting to see how the eight old teams revamp and re-build after releasing some key players. Among the non-retained players, the likes of David Warner, Kagiso Rabada, Shikhar Dhawan, Suresh Raina, Shreyas Iyer, Ishan Kishan, Devdutt Padikkal, etc. are set to go under the radar. Ahead of the mega auction, former Indian opener Aakash Chopra has made a bold revelation, saying that Iyer is set to be the most expensive player and Virat Kohli-starrer Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) have kept a whopping amount aside for him. ALSO READ | IPL 2022: Mega event to be held in India; franchises eager for BCCI to finalise venues - Report Chopra said in a video on his YouTube channel, “Shreyas Iyer could be a potential captain of KKR or RCB. I don't think Punjab would be looking at him." He further opined, "Someone told me that RCB has kept 20cr (INR 200 million) for Shreyas Iyer in IPL 2022 Mega Auction. The most expensive player, to be very honest, is going to be Shreyas Iyer. In this list, the most expensive will be Iyer because Ishan Kishan is not there. If Ishan was there, there could've been a tug of war. Now, they will reserve money for Ishan and money will be splashed out for Iyer." For the foreign players, Chopra added, “The three most expensive overseas players will be Rabada, and then one of Quinton de Kock or David Warner will be the most expensive overseas player as well. There's a good possibility." ALSO READ | Not Warner or Dhawan! Chopra predicts Indian youngster as 'most expensive opener' in IPL 2022 auction It will be interesting to see if Iyer goes to the RCB camp. Under him, the Delhi franchise played their first-ever finale, in the 2020 season. He has amassed 2,375 in 87 games at a strike-rate of 123.96.

RCB has kept whopping amount aside for Shreyas Iyer in IPL 2022 mega auction, reveals Aakash Chopra

<p>New Zealand captain Kane Williamson may miss the upcoming two-match Test series against South Africa at home, said a report by stuff.co.nz. Williamson has been out of action since the Kanpur Test against India in November 2021 as he continues his recovery from an elbow injury.<br />
<br />
"While Kane Williamson is making useful progress in his rehabilitation from an elbow injury which has ruled him out of the last three tests for the Black Caps, the Test series against the Proteas starting in Christchurch on February 17 is likely to be regarded as too early to push him into top-flight action," said the report.<br />
<br />
It is now expected that opener Tom Latham, who captained the team in Tests against Bangladesh, will continue in the role for the Tests against South Africa. The squad, which will be announced later in the week, will be the first time the Blackcaps will feature in Test cricket minus Williamson and a retired Ross Taylor since January 2008.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-cherished-that-post-so-much-ponting-reflects-on-virat-kohlis-decision-to-resign-as-indias-test-captain-449161"><strong>He cherished that post so much: Ponting reflects on Virat Kohli's decision to resign as India's Test captain</strong></a></p>

<p>"But New Zealand Cricket would continue to take a cautious approach, wanting to slowly ease him along with his recovery to ensure there are no setbacks. It`s understood the two Tests may provide too taxing a workload for the 31-year-old at this stage and potentially risk his fitness for the rest of a busy year for the Black Caps, which includes a three-Test series away to England in June and the Twenty20 World Cup starting in Australia in October," further said the report.<br />
<br />
Williamson has been troubled by elbow injury since early 2021, when he had to sit out of the three ODIs against Bangladesh in March. Later in June, Williamson again was ruled out of the Birmingham Test against England due to the elbow issue.<br />
<br />
Williamson then captained New Zealand to winning the World Test Championship in Southampton and being runners-up in the Men`s T20 World Cup at the UAE in October-November.<br />
<br />
But the elbow injury`s recurrence resulting in late pull-out before the second Test against India in Mumbai meant that Williamson, 31, is now giving full attention to recovering from the injury.</p>


New Zealand captain Kane Williamson may miss the upcoming two-match Test series against South Africa at home, said a report by stuff.co.nz. Williamson has been out of action since the Kanpur Test against India in November 2021 as he continues his recovery from an elbow injury.

New Zealand captain Kane Williamson may miss the upcoming two-match Test series against South Africa at home, said a report by stuff.co.nz. Williamson has been out of action since the Kanpur Test against India in November 2021 as he continues his recovery from an elbow injury. "While Kane Williamson is making useful progress in his rehabilitation from an elbow injury which has ruled him out of the last three tests for the Black Caps, the Test series against the Proteas starting in Christchurch on February 17 is likely to be regarded as too early to push him into top-flight action," said the report. It is now expected that opener Tom Latham, who captained the team in Tests against Bangladesh, will continue in the role for the Tests against South Africa. The squad, which will be announced later in the week, will be the first time the Blackcaps will feature in Test cricket minus Williamson and a retired Ross Taylor since January 2008. ALSO READ | He cherished that post so much: Ponting reflects on Virat Kohli's decision to resign as India's Test captain "But New Zealand Cricket would continue to take a cautious approach, wanting to slowly ease him along with his recovery to ensure there are no setbacks. It`s understood the two Tests may provide too taxing a workload for the 31-year-old at this stage and potentially risk his fitness for the rest of a busy year for the Black Caps, which includes a three-Test series away to England in June and the Twenty20 World Cup starting in Australia in October," further said the report. Williamson has been troubled by elbow injury since early 2021, when he had to sit out of the three ODIs against Bangladesh in March. Later in June, Williamson again was ruled out of the Birmingham Test against England due to the elbow issue. Williamson then captained New Zealand to winning the World Test Championship in Southampton and being runners-up in the Men`s T20 World Cup at the UAE in October-November. But the elbow injury`s recurrence resulting in late pull-out before the second Test against India in Mumbai meant that Williamson, 31, is now giving full attention to recovering from the injury.

New Zealand captain Kane Williamson might miss Test series against South Africa: Report

<p>Beijing`s COVID-shortened Olympic torch relay began on Wednesday with basketball great Yao Ming and a Chinese soldier wounded in a bloody 2020 border clash with India among the first to carry the symbolic flame on a journey that will last just three days. The route taking the flame to landmarks including the Great Wall and Summer Palace is far more modest than the globe-spanning tour ahead of Beijing`s 2008 Summer Games that was disrupted by protests along the way.</p>

<p>Because of COVID-19, only selected members of the public will witness this week`s relay, as will be the case during the sporting events at the Olympics, which are taking place inside a "closed loop" that seals off athletes and other Olympics personnel from the public. "That is, of course, bad luck but what can you do?", Georgios Iliopoulos, Greece`s ambassador to China and a torch-bearer, said when asked if he was worried that the 2022 Games would be remembered as the "corona Olympics".</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/beijing-olympics-eleven-personnel-in-hospital-with-covid-19-virus-none-serious-449794">Beijing Olympics: Eleven personnel in hospital with COVID-19 virus, none serious</a></strong></p>

<p>"You cannot stop life and we do the best we can to continue with what we have to deal with. The main thing is we keep together at this and leave it behind us as soon as possible," he told reporters.<br />
The Olympics will run from Feb. 4 to Feb. 20. The flame, which was flown from Greece in October, will travel to competition zones, including Zhangjiakou in neighbouring Hebei province, before ending its journey with the lighting of the Olympic cauldron at Friday`s opening ceremony.</p>

<p>Wednesday`s event began under clear blue skies in Beijing when Chinese Vice Premier Han Zheng lit a torch from a cauldron in the shape of traditional ritual vessel known as a zun, then handed it to 80-year-old Luo Zhihuan, who as a speed skater was China`s first winter sports world champion.</p>

<p>Among the torch-bearers was Qi Fabao, a regimental commander in the People`s Liberation Army who was seriously wounded during a 2020 border clash with Indian troops in the Galwan Valley that killed four Chinese soldiers. He took the torch from four-time short track speed skating gold medalist Wang Meng.<br />
More than 1,000 torch-bearers will participate in the relay. Asked during the sub-freezing morning how he felt as an Olympics torch-bearer, Yao responded: "Pretty cold, because the previous two times were for the Summer Olympics. But it`s warm to hold a flame in the winter."</p>


Beijing`s COVID-shortened Olympic torch relay began on Wednesday with basketball great Yao Ming and a Chinese soldier wounded in a bloody 2020 border clash with India among the first to carry the symbolic flame on a journey that will last just three days.

Beijing`s COVID-shortened Olympic torch relay began on Wednesday with basketball great Yao Ming and a Chinese soldier wounded in a bloody 2020 border clash with India among the first to carry the symbolic flame on a journey that will last just three days. The route taking the flame to landmarks including the Great Wall and Summer Palace is far more modest than the globe-spanning tour ahead of Beijing`s 2008 Summer Games that was disrupted by protests along the way. Because of COVID-19, only selected members of the public will witness this week`s relay, as will be the case during the sporting events at the Olympics, which are taking place inside a "closed loop" that seals off athletes and other Olympics personnel from the public. "That is, of course, bad luck but what can you do?", Georgios Iliopoulos, Greece`s ambassador to China and a torch-bearer, said when asked if he was worried that the 2022 Games would be remembered as the "corona Olympics". ALSO READ | Beijing Olympics: Eleven personnel in hospital with COVID-19 virus, none serious "You cannot stop life and we do the best we can to continue with what we have to deal with. The main thing is we keep together at this and leave it behind us as soon as possible," he told reporters. The Olympics will run from Feb. 4 to Feb. 20. The flame, which was flown from Greece in October, will travel to competition zones, including Zhangjiakou in neighbouring Hebei province, before ending its journey with the lighting of the Olympic cauldron at Friday`s opening ceremony. Wednesday`s event began under clear blue skies in Beijing when Chinese Vice Premier Han Zheng lit a torch from a cauldron in the shape of traditional ritual vessel known as a zun, then handed it to 80-year-old Luo Zhihuan, who as a speed skater was China`s first winter sports world champion. Among the torch-bearers was Qi Fabao, a regimental commander in the People`s Liberation Army who was seriously wounded during a 2020 border clash with Indian troops in the Galwan Valley that killed four Chinese soldiers. He took the torch from four-time short track speed skating gold medalist Wang Meng. More than 1,000 torch-bearers will participate in the relay. Asked during the sub-freezing morning how he felt as an Olympics torch-bearer, Yao responded: "Pretty cold, because the previous two times were for the Summer Olympics. But it`s warm to hold a flame in the winter."

Winter Olympics: Torch begins COVID-shortened trek past Beijing landmarks

<p>Eleven Beijing Olympics-related personnel have been hospitalised with COVID-19 in the Chinese capital since Jan. 23 out of a total of 232 positive cases, Brian McCloskey, chair of the Beijing 2022 medical expert panel, said on Wednesday. Organisers recorded 32 cases in the past 24 hours, 15 of them new airport arrivals.</p>

<p>McCloskey said none of those hospitalised were in serious condition and the overall daily figure would start to drop once the number of participants arriving begins to decrease.</p>

<p>"Since Jan. 23 there have been 232 cases, 163 from the airport and 69 from the closed loop," McCloskey said. About 3,000 athletes, along with coaches, officials, federation delegates and media are expected for the Feb. 4-20 Games.</p>

<p>They will stay in a "closed loop" to prevent contact with the general public, moving between accommodation and Olympic venues on official transport. They are also tested on a daily basis in an effort to identify any infections within the loop quickly.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fbi-asks-us-athletes-to-use-burner-phones-during-bejing-olympics-2022-citing-malicious-cyber-activities-449723"><strong>FBI asks US athletes to use burner phones during Bejing Olympics 2022 citing 'malicious' cyber activities</strong></a></p>

<p>Among the cases announced on Wednesday was an unidentified German team member who has been moved to isolation without any symptoms, the second case from Germany`s Olympic team in recent days. "We expected that but overall, I have to say that the track record with many arriving and being tested negative and then remaining negative for one, two, three days is very encouraging as they have a huge chance to stay negative in the loop," German team chief Dirk Schimmelpfennig told a news conference.<br />
Team members wanting to return to training and competition will need to be without symptoms and provide two negative tests 24 hours apart before being released from quarantine.</p>

<p>In contrast to many countries seeking to live with COVID-19, China has adopted a zero-tolerance policy, which has involved strict border controls and cancelling nearly all international flights. All participants are arriving on charter flights. "At the moment we have seen no significant spread within the loop. We are not particularly worried," McCloskey said. More than 540,000 tests have been conducted since Jan 23.<br />
"They won`t go down immediately but when we get to a stable number of people, then we expect it to go down," McCloskey said of positive cases. "The reality is every country in the world has a higher level of COVID-19 than China does."</p>


Eleven Beijing Olympics-related personnel have been hospitalised with COVID-19 in the Chinese capital since Jan. 23 out of a total of 232 positive cases, Brian McCloskey, chair of the Beijing 2022 medical expert panel, said on Wednesday.

Eleven Beijing Olympics-related personnel have been hospitalised with COVID-19 in the Chinese capital since Jan. 23 out of a total of 232 positive cases, Brian McCloskey, chair of the Beijing 2022 medical expert panel, said on Wednesday. Organisers recorded 32 cases in the past 24 hours, 15 of them new airport arrivals. McCloskey said none of those hospitalised were in serious condition and the overall daily figure would start to drop once the number of participants arriving begins to decrease. "Since Jan. 23 there have been 232 cases, 163 from the airport and 69 from the closed loop," McCloskey said. About 3,000 athletes, along with coaches, officials, federation delegates and media are expected for the Feb. 4-20 Games. They will stay in a "closed loop" to prevent contact with the general public, moving between accommodation and Olympic venues on official transport. They are also tested on a daily basis in an effort to identify any infections within the loop quickly. ALSO READ | FBI asks US athletes to use burner phones during Bejing Olympics 2022 citing 'malicious' cyber activities Among the cases announced on Wednesday was an unidentified German team member who has been moved to isolation without any symptoms, the second case from Germany`s Olympic team in recent days. "We expected that but overall, I have to say that the track record with many arriving and being tested negative and then remaining negative for one, two, three days is very encouraging as they have a huge chance to stay negative in the loop," German team chief Dirk Schimmelpfennig told a news conference. Team members wanting to return to training and competition will need to be without symptoms and provide two negative tests 24 hours apart before being released from quarantine. In contrast to many countries seeking to live with COVID-19, China has adopted a zero-tolerance policy, which has involved strict border controls and cancelling nearly all international flights. All participants are arriving on charter flights. "At the moment we have seen no significant spread within the loop. We are not particularly worried," McCloskey said. More than 540,000 tests have been conducted since Jan 23. "They won`t go down immediately but when we get to a stable number of people, then we expect it to go down," McCloskey said of positive cases. "The reality is every country in the world has a higher level of COVID-19 than China does."

Beijing Olympics: Eleven personnel in hospital with COVID-19 virus, none serious

<p>On Tuesday (February 1), the National Football League (NFL) star&nbsp;Tom&nbsp;Brady&nbsp;dropped a bomb by confirming his retirement from the sport. With this, he has officially brought the curtains down on an illustrious&nbsp;22-season career. The 44-year-old Tampa Bay Buccaneers superstar, widely regarded as the greatest quarterback in history of the sport, t took to his official Instagram handle to share the news with one and all.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Here's what he wrote:</strong></p>

<p><strong>'I feel like the luckiest person in the world'</strong></p>

<p>"I have always believed the sport of football is an 'all-in' proposition -- if a 100% competitive commitment isn't there, you won't succeed, and success is what I love so much about our game. This is difficult for me to write, but here it goes: I am not going to make that competitive commitment anymore. I have loved my NFL career, and now it is time to focus my time and energy on other things that require my attention."</p>

<p>My playing career has been such a thrilling ride, and far beyond my imagination, and full of ups and downs. … I will remember and cherish these memories and re-visit them often. I feel like the luckiest person in the world."</p>

<p>Brady further asserted,&nbsp;"The future is exciting."</p>

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<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CZcDCOOr-v4/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Tom Brady (@tombrady)</a></p>
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<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nfl-icon-tom-brady-confirms-retirement-ends-thrilling-ride-449714"><strong>NFL icon Tom&nbsp;Brady confirms retirement, ends 'thrilling ride'</strong></a></p>

<p><strong>Reactions pouring in for the legend</strong></p>

<p>JJ Watt, American football defensive end for the Arizona Cardinals ,&nbsp;wrote, "Congratulations and enjoy the next chapter brother. Greatest of All Time. 🐐.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Shaquille O'Neal joked saying, "No man get your butt up and do one more year," before adding, "Love u bro absolute joy to watch."</p>

<p>Basketball star&nbsp;Kevin Love shared a heartfelt reply by saying, "Greatest Ever!!! 🐐." Said Buccaneers wide receiver Jaelon Darden, "Grateful To Have The Opportunity To Be Around You Definitely A Blessing Thank You For The Coaching 4 Ever The"</p>

<p>Popular American actor Dwayne Johnson also joined the bandwagon and said, "Congratulations, my brother. What a historic career. Now go enjoy that next chapter w/ that same passion, zest &amp; mana."</p>

<p>On the other hand, Olympian Michael Phelps, who is the most decorated Olympic player ever, wrote,&nbsp;"Congrats bro! Enjoy the next chapter ❤️❤️ 🐐 🐐."</p>

<p>Golfer Justin Thomas added,&nbsp;"You're the best TB. Nobody better in so many facets of life! Appreciate you being an inspiration to so many 🙌</p>

<p>The Buccaneers also acknowledged&nbsp;Brady's contribution via a post from their official Twitter handle.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Forever a part of Buccaneers history.<br />
<br />
Thank you for everything, <a href="https://twitter.com/TomBrady?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TomBrady</a>. 🙏 <a href="https://t.co/XkMON0SY8j">pic.twitter.com/XkMON0SY8j</a></p>
— Tampa Bay Buccaneers (@Buccaneers) <a href="https://twitter.com/Buccaneers/status/1488527450984398857?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 1, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>FANS' REACTIONS:</strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Me every morning for the rest of my life <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TomBrady?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TomBrady</a> <a href="https://t.co/ZgCl2Ik1aK">pic.twitter.com/ZgCl2Ik1aK</a></p>
— Dr. Cocky (@cocky_dr) <a href="https://twitter.com/cocky_dr/status/1487514139194970124?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 29, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">If only, if only. Don’t go yet, <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TomBrady?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TomBrady</a> <a href="https://t.co/OlZGoIjRNY">pic.twitter.com/OlZGoIjRNY</a></p>
— B R I A N (@Its_Bristers) <a href="https://twitter.com/Its_Bristers/status/1487454031467491330?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 29, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">GREATNESS. ICONIC. TIMELESS. GOAT.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TomBrady?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TomBrady</a> <a href="https://t.co/mJHmzCeUYQ">pic.twitter.com/mJHmzCeUYQ</a></p>
— Master At Work (@MasterAtWorkINC) <a href="https://twitter.com/MasterAtWorkINC/status/1488531120178274310?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 1, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">It’s truly an end of an era. Thank you Tom Brady for being in all of our lives. What you brought to football and the Patriots we are forever in your debt. I love you <a href="https://twitter.com/TomBrady?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TomBrady</a> enjoy your retirement! Truly an icon and my role model 💙❤️ <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ForeverNE?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ForeverNE</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TomBrady?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TomBrady</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Patriots?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Patriots</a> <a href="https://t.co/kKHPioM4qU">pic.twitter.com/kKHPioM4qU</a></p>
— ❤️Imperial TK💙 (@PatsNationOhio) <a href="https://twitter.com/PatsNationOhio/status/1487510549533540352?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 29, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Don't be sad it is over, be glad it happened. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TomBrady?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TomBrady</a> <a href="https://t.co/e04ZZyTxI7">pic.twitter.com/e04ZZyTxI7</a></p>
— Obnoxious Boston Fan (@realOBF) <a href="https://twitter.com/realOBF/status/1487511477481349123?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 29, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>Brady's big announcement came following the&nbsp;Buccaneers going down in the divisional round of the 2021-2022 season playoffs. Many speculated the veteran's&nbsp;retirement was always&nbsp;on the cards after&nbsp;the defeat.</p>

<p>At the time, he had played it safe by&nbsp;claiming he'd be taking it "day by day." Nonetheless, the inevitable news has shocked his ardent fans, even though when many saw it coming.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Undoubtedly, Brady signs off as one of the all-time greats.</p>


On Tuesday (February 1), the National Football League (NFL) star Tom Brady dropped a bomb by confirming his retirement from the sport. With this, he has officially brought the curtains down on an illustrious 22-season career.

On Tuesday (February 1), the National Football League (NFL) star Tom Brady dropped a bomb by confirming his retirement from the sport. With this, he has officially brought the curtains down on an illustrious 22-season career. The 44-year-old Tampa Bay Buccaneers superstar, widely regarded as the greatest quarterback in history of the sport, t took to his official Instagram handle to share the news with one and all. Here's what he wrote: 'I feel like the luckiest person in the world' "I have always believed the sport of football is an 'all-in' proposition -- if a 100% competitive commitment isn't there, you won't succeed, and success is what I love so much about our game. This is difficult for me to write, but here it goes: I am not going to make that competitive commitment anymore. I have loved my NFL career, and now it is time to focus my time and energy on other things that require my attention." My playing career has been such a thrilling ride, and far beyond my imagination, and full of ups and downs. … I will remember and cherish these memories and re-visit them often. I feel like the luckiest person in the world." Brady further asserted, "The future is exciting." View this post on Instagram A post shared by Tom Brady (@tombrady) × ALSO READ | NFL icon Tom Brady confirms retirement, ends 'thrilling ride' Reactions pouring in for the legend JJ Watt, American football defensive end for the Arizona Cardinals , wrote, "Congratulations and enjoy the next chapter brother. Greatest of All Time. 🐐. Meanwhile, Shaquille O'Neal joked saying, "No man get your butt up and do one more year," before adding, "Love u bro absolute joy to watch." Basketball star Kevin Love shared a heartfelt reply by saying, "Greatest Ever!!! 🐐." Said Buccaneers wide receiver Jaelon Darden, "Grateful To Have The Opportunity To Be Around You Definitely A Blessing Thank You For The Coaching 4 Ever The" Popular American actor Dwayne Johnson also joined the bandwagon and said, "Congratulations, my brother. What a historic career. Now go enjoy that next chapter w/ that same passion, zest & mana." On the other hand, Olympian Michael Phelps, who is the most decorated Olympic player ever, wrote, "Congrats bro! Enjoy the next chapter ❤️❤️ 🐐 🐐." Golfer Justin Thomas added, "You're the best TB. Nobody better in so many facets of life! Appreciate you being an inspiration to so many 🙌 The Buccaneers also acknowledged Brady's contribution via a post from their official Twitter handle. Forever a part of Buccaneers history. Thank you for everything, @TomBrady. 🙏 pic.twitter.com/XkMON0SY8j — Tampa Bay Buccaneers (@Buccaneers) February 1, 2022 × FANS' REACTIONS: Me every morning for the rest of my life #TomBrady pic.twitter.com/ZgCl2Ik1aK — Dr. Cocky (@cocky_dr) January 29, 2022 × If only, if only. Don’t go yet, #TomBrady pic.twitter.com/OlZGoIjRNY — B R I A N (@Its_Bristers) January 29, 2022 × GREATNESS. ICONIC. TIMELESS. GOAT.#TomBrady pic.twitter.com/mJHmzCeUYQ — Master At Work (@MasterAtWorkINC) February 1, 2022 × It’s truly an end of an era. Thank you Tom Brady for being in all of our lives. What you brought to football and the Patriots we are forever in your debt. I love you @TomBrady enjoy your retirement! Truly an icon and my role model 💙❤️ #ForeverNE #TomBrady #Patriots pic.twitter.com/kKHPioM4qU — ❤️Imperial TK💙 (@PatsNationOhio) January 29, 2022 × Don't be sad it is over, be glad it happened. #TomBrady pic.twitter.com/e04ZZyTxI7 — Obnoxious Boston Fan (@realOBF) January 29, 2022 × Brady's big announcement came following the Buccaneers going down in the divisional round of the 2021-2022 season playoffs. Many speculated the veteran's retirement was always on the cards after the defeat. At the time, he had played it safe by claiming he'd be taking it "day by day." Nonetheless, the inevitable news has shocked his ardent fans, even though when many saw it coming. Undoubtedly, Brady signs off as one of the all-time greats.

From Dwayne Johnson to Michael Phelps: Reactions pour in as NFL legend Tom Brady confirms retirement

<p>The BCCI has had a tough time to host the last two IPL seasons. IPL 2020 was held entirely in the UAE whereas the IPL 2021 season took place in two halves, in India and the Middle East. While the 2020 edition was delayed by over five&nbsp;months due to the Covid-19 virus, the previous edition was also severely affected when at mid-way the tournament was postponed indefinitely due to the second wave of Covid-19 in India.</p>

<p>The second half of IPL 14 finally took place in late 2021 in the UAE. Hence, all eyes are on the BCCI as to where they will host the 15th edition. Amid the current Covid-19 wave slowing down in the country and restrictions being lifted nationwide, BCCI is all but set to host the upcoming season in India.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ishan-kishan-to-pat-cummins-final-list-of-players-with-highest-base-price-of-rs-2-crore-for-ipl-mega-auction-449664">Ishan Kishan to Pat Cummins: Final list of players with highest base price of Rs 2 crore for IPL mega auction</a></strong></p>

<p>A BCCI official, on the matter, confirmed that the league will 100% be held in the country. The official told the&nbsp;<em>Indian Express, "</em>It will be in India,” on being asked the burning question. On the other hand, the ten franchises have urged the board to finalise the venue of the league ahead of the IPL 2022 mega auction. For the unversed, the auction will be held in mid-February in Bengaluru.</p>

<p>Regarding the venus of IPL 2022, many reports&nbsp;suggested that BCCI have kept Maharashtra as an option for the league stages&nbsp;-- taking two or three venues into account -- along with Ahmedabad to host the playoffs.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/not-warner-or-dhawan-chopra-predicts-indian-youngster-as-most-expensive-opener-in-ipl-2022-auction-449533"><strong>Not Warner or Dhawan! Chopra predicts Indian youngster as 'most expensive opener' in IPL 2022 auction</strong></a></p>

<p>Earlier, the BCCI secretary Jay Shah had stated that the board will leave 'no stone unturned'&nbsp;to host the entire forthcoming season in the country.</p>

<p>"I can tell you that we will leave no stone unturned in ensuring that IPL stays in India. The BCCI has not compromised on the health and safety of its stakeholders in the past and will concurrently work on Plan B since the COVID-19 situation with new variants remains fluid. The mega IPL Auction will take place on February 12-13th and we will lock in venues before that," BCCI secretary Jay Shah had earlier confirmed in a statement.</p>


The BCCI has had a tough time to host the last two IPL seasons. IPL 2020 was held entirely in the UAE whereas the IPL 2021 season took place in two halves, in India and the Middle East.

The BCCI has had a tough time to host the last two IPL seasons. IPL 2020 was held entirely in the UAE whereas the IPL 2021 season took place in two halves, in India and the Middle East. While the 2020 edition was delayed by over five months due to the Covid-19 virus, the previous edition was also severely affected when at mid-way the tournament was postponed indefinitely due to the second wave of Covid-19 in India. The second half of IPL 14 finally took place in late 2021 in the UAE. Hence, all eyes are on the BCCI as to where they will host the 15th edition. Amid the current Covid-19 wave slowing down in the country and restrictions being lifted nationwide, BCCI is all but set to host the upcoming season in India. ALSO READ | Ishan Kishan to Pat Cummins: Final list of players with highest base price of Rs 2 crore for IPL mega auction A BCCI official, on the matter, confirmed that the league will 100% be held in the country. The official told the Indian Express, "It will be in India,” on being asked the burning question. On the other hand, the ten franchises have urged the board to finalise the venue of the league ahead of the IPL 2022 mega auction. For the unversed, the auction will be held in mid-February in Bengaluru. Regarding the venus of IPL 2022, many reports suggested that BCCI have kept Maharashtra as an option for the league stages -- taking two or three venues into account -- along with Ahmedabad to host the playoffs. ALSO READ | Not Warner or Dhawan! Chopra predicts Indian youngster as 'most expensive opener' in IPL 2022 auction Earlier, the BCCI secretary Jay Shah had stated that the board will leave 'no stone unturned' to host the entire forthcoming season in the country. "I can tell you that we will leave no stone unturned in ensuring that IPL stays in India. The BCCI has not compromised on the health and safety of its stakeholders in the past and will concurrently work on Plan B since the COVID-19 situation with new variants remains fluid. The mega IPL Auction will take place on February 12-13th and we will lock in venues before that," BCCI secretary Jay Shah had earlier confirmed in a statement.

IPL 2022: Mega event to be held in India; franchises eager for BCCI to finalise venues - Report

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