<p>Thirty-two-year-old Simon Harmer, will return to the Proteas Test set-up for the outbound tour to New Zealand. The last time the right-hand, off-spinner appeared for the national team was against India in November 2015.</p>

<p>He is joined by Lutho Sipamla in the squad of 17 that departs for the two-match series on February 2.In a move to minimize COVID-19 risk, both fixtures, which will form part of the new cycle of the ICC World Test Championship, will now take place at Hagley Oval in Christchurch.</p>

<p>Harmer returns due to the imminent nuptial of George Linde, who is not available to take part in the tour. Prenelan Subrayen is also not available for selection, due to a groin injury. He is making good progress in his rehabilitation.</p>

<p>Harmer made a big splash by taking seven wickets on his Test debut against the West Indies in January 2015 in Cape Town, and went on to play four more matches, taking 20 wickets in total in eight innings, at an average of 29.40.</p>

<p><b>Read Also |&nbsp;</b><a href="http://13.235.153.162/sports/bcci-central-contracts-test-specialists-cheteshwar-pujara-ajinkya-rahane-likely-face-demotion-report-447737"><strong>BCCI central contracts: Test specialists Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane likely face demotion - Report</strong></a></p>

<p>The remainder of the Dean Elgar-led squad holds no surprises and will see the welcome return of Kagiso Rabada, who was rested for the recently concluded Betway One-Day International (ODI) series against India.</p>

<p>CSA Convenor of Selectors, Victor Mpitsang said: "The National Selection Panel and I are pleased to see the Test team playing more cricket and we are looking forward to watching them perform in what we hope will be another scintillating series, this time, against the ICC World Test Champions, the BLACKCAPS. Our Test team has been successful under the strong leadership of Dean Elgar and his deputy, Temba Bavuma, and has returned good results in recent times. We are confident that they will continue in the same vein, as they head off to New Zealand."</p>

<p>"The inclusions of Simon (Harmer) and Lutho (Sipamla) reaffirm our intentions as a Panel, to reward excellence on the field and the pair have let their work speak on their behalf this past season. We wish Dean, coach Mark Boucher, and the team all the best for the series and safe travels," he added.</p>

<p>Proteas Test squad vs New Zealand: Dean Elgar (captain), Temba Bavuma, Sarel Erwee, Simon Harmer, Marco Jansen, Keshav Maharaj, Aiden Markram, Wiaan Mulder, Lungi Ngidi, Duanne Olivier, Keegan Petersen, Kagiso Rabada, Ryan Rickelton, Lutho Sipamla, Glenton Stuurman, Rassie van der Dussen, Kyle Verreynne.&nbsp;</p>


Thirty-two-year-old Simon Harmer, will return to the Proteas Test set-up for the outbound tour to New Zealand. The last time the right-hand, off-spinner appeared for the national team was against India in November 2015.

Thirty-two-year-old Simon Harmer, will return to the Proteas Test set-up for the outbound tour to New Zealand. The last time the right-hand, off-spinner appeared for the national team was against India in November 2015. He is joined by Lutho Sipamla in the squad of 17 that departs for the two-match series on February 2.In a move to minimize COVID-19 risk, both fixtures, which will form part of the new cycle of the ICC World Test Championship, will now take place at Hagley Oval in Christchurch. Harmer returns due to the imminent nuptial of George Linde, who is not available to take part in the tour. Prenelan Subrayen is also not available for selection, due to a groin injury. He is making good progress in his rehabilitation. Harmer made a big splash by taking seven wickets on his Test debut against the West Indies in January 2015 in Cape Town, and went on to play four more matches, taking 20 wickets in total in eight innings, at an average of 29.40. Read Also | BCCI central contracts: Test specialists Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane likely face demotion - Report The remainder of the Dean Elgar-led squad holds no surprises and will see the welcome return of Kagiso Rabada, who was rested for the recently concluded Betway One-Day International (ODI) series against India. CSA Convenor of Selectors, Victor Mpitsang said: "The National Selection Panel and I are pleased to see the Test team playing more cricket and we are looking forward to watching them perform in what we hope will be another scintillating series, this time, against the ICC World Test Champions, the BLACKCAPS. Our Test team has been successful under the strong leadership of Dean Elgar and his deputy, Temba Bavuma, and has returned good results in recent times. We are confident that they will continue in the same vein, as they head off to New Zealand." "The inclusions of Simon (Harmer) and Lutho (Sipamla) reaffirm our intentions as a Panel, to reward excellence on the field and the pair have let their work speak on their behalf this past season. We wish Dean, coach Mark Boucher, and the team all the best for the series and safe travels," he added. Proteas Test squad vs New Zealand: Dean Elgar (captain), Temba Bavuma, Sarel Erwee, Simon Harmer, Marco Jansen, Keshav Maharaj, Aiden Markram, Wiaan Mulder, Lungi Ngidi, Duanne Olivier, Keegan Petersen, Kagiso Rabada, Ryan Rickelton, Lutho Sipamla, Glenton Stuurman, Rassie van der Dussen, Kyle Verreynne.

Proteas included Simon Harmer in squad for upcoming New Zealand Tests

<p>Top-order batsmen Kusal Mendis and Danushka Gunathilaka returned from their suspensions to make Sri Lanka`s 20-member squad for their limited-overs tour of Australia, the country`s cricket board said on Wednesday.</p>

<p>The duo, along with Niroshan Dickwella, were suspended last year for breaching the team`s bio-bubble anti-coronavirus protocols during their tour of England in July.</p>

<p>Their suspensions were lifted earlier this month and Mendis and Gunathilaka were included in the Dasun Shanaka-led squad which will play five Twenty20 matches in Australia across three venues in Sydney, Canberra and Melbourne.</p>

<p>Sri Lanka are without a head coach since Mickey Arthur`s two-year stint ended last month, and the Island newspaper said Englishman Paul Farbrace would succeed him ahead of the team`s India tour in February-March.</p>

<p><strong>Read Also |&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/sports/pick-up-the-phone-and-talk-kapil-dev-opines-on-virat-kohli-vs-bcci-row-says-put-country-team-before-self-447554">Pick up the phone and talk: Kapil Dev opines on Virat Kohli vs BCCI row, says 'put country, team before self'</a></strong></p>

<p>Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) has named Rumesh Ratnayake as the interim coach for the Australia tour but the former test bowler has tested positive for COVID-19.</p>

<p>"Ratnayake will not travel to Australia with the team but will join before the 1st T20I game, as he is currently in self-isolation," the SLC said in a statement.</p>

<p>Off-spinner Dilruwan Perera has retired from international cricket but would be available to play domestic games, the statement added.</p>

<p>Australia have rested opener David Warner and all-rounder Mitch Marsh from their 16-member squad for the Twenty20 series against Sri Lanka beginning on Feb. 11.</p>

<p>Sri Lanka squad: Dasun Shanaka (captain), Charith Asalanka, Avishka Fernando, Pathum Nissanka, Danushka Gunathilaka, Kusal Mendis, Dinesh Chandimal, Chamika Karunaratne, Janith Liyanage, Kamil Mishara, Ramesh Mendis, Wanindu Hasaranga, Lahiru Kumara, Nuwan Thushara, Dushmantha Chameera, Binura Fernando, Maheesh Theekshana, Jeffrey Vandersay, Praveen Jayawickrama.&nbsp;</p>


Top-order batsmen Kusal Mendis and Danushka Gunathilaka returned from their suspensions to make Sri Lanka`s 20-member squad for their limited-overs tour of Australia, the country`s cricket board said on Wednesday.

Top-order batsmen Kusal Mendis and Danushka Gunathilaka returned from their suspensions to make Sri Lanka`s 20-member squad for their limited-overs tour of Australia, the country`s cricket board said on Wednesday. The duo, along with Niroshan Dickwella, were suspended last year for breaching the team`s bio-bubble anti-coronavirus protocols during their tour of England in July. Their suspensions were lifted earlier this month and Mendis and Gunathilaka were included in the Dasun Shanaka-led squad which will play five Twenty20 matches in Australia across three venues in Sydney, Canberra and Melbourne. Sri Lanka are without a head coach since Mickey Arthur`s two-year stint ended last month, and the Island newspaper said Englishman Paul Farbrace would succeed him ahead of the team`s India tour in February-March. Read Also | Pick up the phone and talk: Kapil Dev opines on Virat Kohli vs BCCI row, says 'put country, team before self' Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) has named Rumesh Ratnayake as the interim coach for the Australia tour but the former test bowler has tested positive for COVID-19. "Ratnayake will not travel to Australia with the team but will join before the 1st T20I game, as he is currently in self-isolation," the SLC said in a statement. Off-spinner Dilruwan Perera has retired from international cricket but would be available to play domestic games, the statement added. Australia have rested opener David Warner and all-rounder Mitch Marsh from their 16-member squad for the Twenty20 series against Sri Lanka beginning on Feb. 11. Sri Lanka squad: Dasun Shanaka (captain), Charith Asalanka, Avishka Fernando, Pathum Nissanka, Danushka Gunathilaka, Kusal Mendis, Dinesh Chandimal, Chamika Karunaratne, Janith Liyanage, Kamil Mishara, Ramesh Mendis, Wanindu Hasaranga, Lahiru Kumara, Nuwan Thushara, Dushmantha Chameera, Binura Fernando, Maheesh Theekshana, Jeffrey Vandersay, Praveen Jayawickrama.

Australia tour: Kusal Mendis, Danushka Gunathilaka back in action for Sri Lanka

<p>KL Rahul-led Team India were whitewashed by South Africa in the three ODIs, in the African nation. While India were without their regular limited-overs captain Rohit Sharma and all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja, they still had many star players in the line-up. However, the national side were left with many questions following their listless performance on the 22-yard cricket strip.</p>

<p>Ahead of India's upcoming white-ball series versus West Indies, former off-spinner Harbhajan Singh feels it is time for the national team to look beyond veteran player R Ashwin. Ashwin was roped in the ODI squad and played his first-ever 50-over series since late 2017. The 35-year-old, however, returned with only a solitary wicket. Thus, Bhajji feels Ashwin can be overlooked for the ODI format.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-central-contracts-test-specialists-cheteshwar-pujara-ajinkya-rahane-likely-face-demotion-report-447737"><strong>BCCI central contracts: Test specialists Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane likely face demotion - Report</strong></a></p>

<p>"I think these two guys (Ishant Sharma and Ashwin) have done really well for Team India, whether you talk about Test cricket or ODIs. With all due respect to R Ashwin, I think he is a champion bowler, but in ODI cricket, I feel, it's time India start looking for an option, maybe someone who can take the ball in as well as out," Harbhajan told Sports Today.</p>

<p>"Someone like Kuldeep Yadav could be a great option. Why don't we go back to Kulcha combination and see what they can bring to the table? They won have games for India. It will be a good thing to go back to them," he added.</p>

<p>Ashwin is reportedly out of action for the upcoming WI ODIs and won't play the 50-over format for nearly six months. He might keep his place in the shortest format, along with being a regular in Tests.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-neeraj-chopra-lead-wishes-from-sports-fraternity-as-india-celebrates-73rd-republic-day-447708"><strong>Virat Kohli, Neeraj Chopra lead wishes from sports fraternity as India celebrates 73rd Republic Day</strong></a></p>

<p>Kuldeep Yadav, on the other hand, has been out of favour across formats for long. He played his last ODI in mid-2021 (during India's second-stringed side's tour of Sri Lanka) and will be interesting to see if the team management recalls him for the upcoming home assignments in the white-ball formats. Yuzvendra Chahal and Kuldeep have been a daunting spin duo for the Men in Blue till the 2019 ODI World Cup, however, their dip in form and lack of batting depth resulted in the famed partnership being broken.</p>


KL Rahul-led Team India were whitewashed by South Africa in the three ODIs, in the African nation. While India were without their regular limited-overs captain Rohit Sharma and all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja, they still had many star players in the line-up.

KL Rahul-led Team India were whitewashed by South Africa in the three ODIs, in the African nation. While India were without their regular limited-overs captain Rohit Sharma and all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja, they still had many star players in the line-up. However, the national side were left with many questions following their listless performance on the 22-yard cricket strip. Ahead of India's upcoming white-ball series versus West Indies, former off-spinner Harbhajan Singh feels it is time for the national team to look beyond veteran player R Ashwin. Ashwin was roped in the ODI squad and played his first-ever 50-over series since late 2017. The 35-year-old, however, returned with only a solitary wicket. Thus, Bhajji feels Ashwin can be overlooked for the ODI format. ALSO READ | BCCI central contracts: Test specialists Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane likely face demotion - Report "I think these two guys (Ishant Sharma and Ashwin) have done really well for Team India, whether you talk about Test cricket or ODIs. With all due respect to R Ashwin, I think he is a champion bowler, but in ODI cricket, I feel, it's time India start looking for an option, maybe someone who can take the ball in as well as out," Harbhajan told Sports Today. "Someone like Kuldeep Yadav could be a great option. Why don't we go back to Kulcha combination and see what they can bring to the table? They won have games for India. It will be a good thing to go back to them," he added. Ashwin is reportedly out of action for the upcoming WI ODIs and won't play the 50-over format for nearly six months. He might keep his place in the shortest format, along with being a regular in Tests. ALSO READ | Virat Kohli, Neeraj Chopra lead wishes from sports fraternity as India celebrates 73rd Republic Day Kuldeep Yadav, on the other hand, has been out of favour across formats for long. He played his last ODI in mid-2021 (during India's second-stringed side's tour of Sri Lanka) and will be interesting to see if the team management recalls him for the upcoming home assignments in the white-ball formats. Yuzvendra Chahal and Kuldeep have been a daunting spin duo for the Men in Blue till the 2019 ODI World Cup, however, their dip in form and lack of batting depth resulted in the famed partnership being broken.

Harbhajan Singh advises Team India to look beyond star player in ODI format, names his replacement

<p>Greek Stefanos Tsitsipas will be hoping it is third time lucky in an Australian Open semi-final after his scintillating 6-3 6-4 6-2 victory against Jannik Sinner in the last eight on Wednesday at Rod Laver Arena.</p>

<p>The fourth seed, a semi-finalist in Melbourne in 2019 and 2021, was stretched to five sets by Taylor Fritz on Monday but showed no signs of fatigue in a match that started in blazing sunshine but finished under the roof after a storm hit.</p>

<p>The 23-year-old will play the winner of the quarter-final between Russian Daniil Medvedev and Canadian Felix Auger-Aliassime later on Wednesday.</p>

<p>With Melbourne`s big Greek population, Tsitsipas has always drawn strong support at the Australian Open and it was the same again in the clash against Sinner.</p>

<p><strong>Read Also |&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/sports/australian-open-iga-swiatek-holds-off-kaia-kanepi-to-reach-the-semis-447738">Australian Open: Iga Swiatek holds off Kaia Kanepi to reach the semis</a></strong></p>

<p>"I think my humility helped a lot today. I knew I was going on the court facing a very good player. I tried to focus on my best shots and it paid off more than I thought," he said in his on-court interview.</p>

<p>"Once again, stepping on to that court, having the crowd support, it is truly unbelievable."</p>

<p>A finalist at Roland Garros last year, Tsitsipas was troubled by elbow problems at the end of last season and was concerned he might not be able to play in Australia.</p>

<p>"I am pretty sure my doctor is watching right now. He has been sending me texts after every single game," he said.</p>

<p>"He said `I don`t expect to see you playing in Australia`. But I proved him wrong. I am happy I have found the right man to bring me back even stronger."</p>


Greek Stefanos Tsitsipas will be hoping it is third time lucky in an Australian Open semi-final after his scintillating 6-3 6-4 6-2 victory against Jannik Sinner in the last eight on Wednesday at Rod Laver Arena.

Greek Stefanos Tsitsipas will be hoping it is third time lucky in an Australian Open semi-final after his scintillating 6-3 6-4 6-2 victory against Jannik Sinner in the last eight on Wednesday at Rod Laver Arena. The fourth seed, a semi-finalist in Melbourne in 2019 and 2021, was stretched to five sets by Taylor Fritz on Monday but showed no signs of fatigue in a match that started in blazing sunshine but finished under the roof after a storm hit. The 23-year-old will play the winner of the quarter-final between Russian Daniil Medvedev and Canadian Felix Auger-Aliassime later on Wednesday. With Melbourne`s big Greek population, Tsitsipas has always drawn strong support at the Australian Open and it was the same again in the clash against Sinner. Read Also | Australian Open: Iga Swiatek holds off Kaia Kanepi to reach the semis "I think my humility helped a lot today. I knew I was going on the court facing a very good player. I tried to focus on my best shots and it paid off more than I thought," he said in his on-court interview. "Once again, stepping on to that court, having the crowd support, it is truly unbelievable." A finalist at Roland Garros last year, Tsitsipas was troubled by elbow problems at the end of last season and was concerned he might not be able to play in Australia. "I am pretty sure my doctor is watching right now. He has been sending me texts after every single game," he said. "He said `I don`t expect to see you playing in Australia`. But I proved him wrong. I am happy I have found the right man to bring me back even stronger."

Australian Open: Stefanos Tsitsipas thrashes Jannik Sinner to reach semifinals

<p>The tableau of Haryana at the Republic Day parade on Wednesday displayed the proactive policies of the state government to promote the culture of sports in Haryana.</p>

<p>The number one state in sports, occupying only 1.3 per cent of the geographical area and accounting for 2.09 per cent of the population of the country, Haryana has brought monumental laurels by winning the maximum number of medals for the nation in several international sporting events, including the Olympic Games.</p>

<p>Out of the seven medals won by India in Tokyo Olympics 2020, Haryana bagged four medals, including the lone gold medal in the individual category. The Haryana government had awarded cash prizes of Rs 25.40 crore to the sportspersons of the state who participated in the Tokyo Olympics.</p>

<p>Similarly, in the Paralympics 2020, out of the total 19 medals won by the country, the players of Haryana got six medals, including two gold medals in the individual category.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Proud Moments for <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HaryanaSports?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HaryanaSports</a><br />
Tableau of Haryana is on Rajpath after a gap of 5 years .<br />
Theme was 'Haryana- Number 1 in Sports'<a href="https://twitter.com/cmohry?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@cmohry</a><a href="https://twitter.com/DiprHaryana?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DiprHaryana</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/DuttYogi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DuttYogi</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/sumit_javelin?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@sumit_javelin</a> <a href="https://t.co/SKYTRbXNMb">pic.twitter.com/SKYTRbXNMb</a></p>
— Pankaj Nain IPS (@ipspankajnain) <a href="https://twitter.com/ipspankajnain/status/1486233848052551680?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 26, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>The tableau reflects the proactive policies of the state government to promote the culture of sports.The chariot carried by horses is a symbol of "Victory", similar to the Victory Chariot of the Mahabharat War.</p>

<p>In the first part of the tableau, the Conch of Lord Krishan has been shown; the wrestlers wrestling in the arena above the middle of the tableau reflect the affection towards sports in Haryana. In the rear of the tableau, there are participants and winners in the national and international sports competitions, including the Olympics.</p>

<p>The tableau in the form of "Victory Chariot" is a symbol of honour and pride not only for Haryana but also for the whole country. India is celebrating its 73rd Republic Day today. A set of guidelines issued by the Centre states that those attending the Republic Day parade must be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 and children below 15 years of age will not be allowed to attend the function.</p>

<p>Visitors must carry proof of vaccination and must adhere to all COVID-protocols, such as wearing face masks and maintaining social distancing. As many as 21 tableaux including those 12 states and nine ministries or government departments are a part of the Republic Day parade.</p>

<p><strong>Read Also |&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/sports/virat-kohli-neeraj-chopra-lead-wishes-from-sports-fraternity-as-india-celebrates-73rd-republic-day-447708">Virat Kohli, Neeraj Chopra lead wishes from sports fraternity as India celebrates 73rd Republic Day</a></strong></p>

<p>The celebrations this year are special as Republic Day falls in the 75th year of Independence, being celebrated as `Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav` across the country. To mark the occasion, the Ministry of Defence has conceptualised a series of new events during the main parade on Rajpath on January 26 and the `Beating the Retreat` ceremony at Vijay Chowk on January 29.</p>

<p>It has been decided that the Republic Day celebrations will now be week-long from January 23-30 every year. The celebrations commenced on January 23, the birth anniversary of great freedom fighter Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose and culminate on January, 30 which is observed as Martyrs` Day.</p>


The tableau of Haryana at the Republic Day parade on Wednesday displayed the proactive policies of the state government to promote the culture of sports in Haryana.

The tableau of Haryana at the Republic Day parade on Wednesday displayed the proactive policies of the state government to promote the culture of sports in Haryana. The number one state in sports, occupying only 1.3 per cent of the geographical area and accounting for 2.09 per cent of the population of the country, Haryana has brought monumental laurels by winning the maximum number of medals for the nation in several international sporting events, including the Olympic Games. Out of the seven medals won by India in Tokyo Olympics 2020, Haryana bagged four medals, including the lone gold medal in the individual category. The Haryana government had awarded cash prizes of Rs 25.40 crore to the sportspersons of the state who participated in the Tokyo Olympics. Similarly, in the Paralympics 2020, out of the total 19 medals won by the country, the players of Haryana got six medals, including two gold medals in the individual category. Proud Moments for #HaryanaSports Tableau of Haryana is on Rajpath after a gap of 5 years . Theme was 'Haryana- Number 1 in Sports'@cmohry@DiprHaryana @DuttYogi @sumit_javelin pic.twitter.com/SKYTRbXNMb — Pankaj Nain IPS (@ipspankajnain) January 26, 2022 × The tableau reflects the proactive policies of the state government to promote the culture of sports.The chariot carried by horses is a symbol of "Victory", similar to the Victory Chariot of the Mahabharat War. In the first part of the tableau, the Conch of Lord Krishan has been shown; the wrestlers wrestling in the arena above the middle of the tableau reflect the affection towards sports in Haryana. In the rear of the tableau, there are participants and winners in the national and international sports competitions, including the Olympics. The tableau in the form of "Victory Chariot" is a symbol of honour and pride not only for Haryana but also for the whole country. India is celebrating its 73rd Republic Day today. A set of guidelines issued by the Centre states that those attending the Republic Day parade must be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 and children below 15 years of age will not be allowed to attend the function. Visitors must carry proof of vaccination and must adhere to all COVID-protocols, such as wearing face masks and maintaining social distancing. As many as 21 tableaux including those 12 states and nine ministries or government departments are a part of the Republic Day parade. Read Also | Virat Kohli, Neeraj Chopra lead wishes from sports fraternity as India celebrates 73rd Republic Day The celebrations this year are special as Republic Day falls in the 75th year of Independence, being celebrated as `Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav` across the country. To mark the occasion, the Ministry of Defence has conceptualised a series of new events during the main parade on Rajpath on January 26 and the `Beating the Retreat` ceremony at Vijay Chowk on January 29. It has been decided that the Republic Day celebrations will now be week-long from January 23-30 every year. The celebrations commenced on January 23, the birth anniversary of great freedom fighter Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose and culminate on January, 30 which is observed as Martyrs` Day.

Republic Day parade: Haryana tableau demonstrates proactive sports promotion policies

<p>French Open winner Iga Swiatek managed to temper her frustrations and rally from a set and a break down in brutal heat to overpower Estonian Kaia Kanepi 4-6 7-6(2) 6-3 on Wednesday to reach her first Australian Open semi-final.</p>

<p>Poland`s Swiatek will next meet 27th-seeded American Danielle Collins, who earlier defeated Frenchwoman Alize Cornet 7-5 6-1, for a place in Saturday`s final at Melbourne Park.</p>

<p>In their first career meeting, Swiatek wasted breakpoint chances in each of Kanepi`s first three service games and it was the Estonian who converted her first chance in the seventh game to nose ahead.</p>

<p>Swiatek saved four setpoints in the ninth game that lasted 16 minutes but could not stop Kanepi from taking the opener on her ninth opportunity after another lengthy game.</p>

<p>"In the first set I had so many breakpoints, I felt like I missed my chances because she broke me on her first breakpoint," Swiatek said on court.</p>

<p><b>Read Also |&nbsp;</b><a href="http://13.235.153.162/sports/australian-open-matteo-berrettini-edges-past-gael-monfils-in-five-set-thriller-to-face-rafael-nadal-in-sfs-447536"><strong>Australian Open: Matteo Berrettini edges past Gael Monfils in five-set thriller, to face Rafael Nadal in SFs</strong></a></p>

<p>"I was pretty annoyed. That was a mistake because I should have been focused on the future, on the next ball."</p>

<p>Kanepi, 36, appeared set to progress beyond the last eight at a Grand Slam for the first time when she broke early in the second, with a frustrated Swiatek slapping herself and slamming her racquet on court.</p>

<p>The Estonian did most of the damage with her powerful double-handed backhand, leaving Swiatek rooted to the spot and watching helplessly as the winners screamed past.</p>

<p>But the 2020 Roland Garros champion, who committed 12 double faults in the match, regained her composure and raised her level in a second set tiebreaker to level the contest at 1-1.</p>

<p>Swiatek suffered two more breaks in the decider but managed to break 115th-ranked Kanepi four times. She showed some incredible defence on her second match point, sealing the three-hour contest when Kanepi sent a backhand wide for her 62nd unforced error.</p>

<p><strong>Read Also |&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/sports/australian-open-sania-mirza-rajeev-ram-bow-out-lose-quarterfinal-clash-in-straight-sets-447390">Australian Open: Sania Mirza-Rajeev Ram bow out, lose quarterfinal clash in straight sets</a></strong></p>

<p>"I`m really glad that I have my voice because I was shouting so loud," Swiatek said.<br />
"This match was crazy and without the energy in the stadium, I think it would`ve been really hard to win it."</p>

<p>While Kanepi admitted to feeling a "bit heavy" in her legs in the third set, Swiatek was unflustered in the sweltering conditions and said she would be ready for the last-four clash against Collins on Thursday.</p>

<p>"My main concern is if the sun is going to be bothering me during the serve," Swiatek told reporters. "So I didn`t really care that it`s hot and humid.</p>

<p>"I know that I`m physically really prepared, and I hoped that she`s going to be more tired in the end. I actually wanted to prolong some ... rallies to make her more tired because I have big trust in myself in terms of my physical shape."</p>


French Open winner Iga Swiatek managed to temper her frustrations and rally from a set and a break down in brutal heat to overpower Estonian Kaia Kanepi 4-6 7-6(2) 6-3 on Wednesday to reach her first Australian Open semi-final.

French Open winner Iga Swiatek managed to temper her frustrations and rally from a set and a break down in brutal heat to overpower Estonian Kaia Kanepi 4-6 7-6(2) 6-3 on Wednesday to reach her first Australian Open semi-final. Poland`s Swiatek will next meet 27th-seeded American Danielle Collins, who earlier defeated Frenchwoman Alize Cornet 7-5 6-1, for a place in Saturday`s final at Melbourne Park. In their first career meeting, Swiatek wasted breakpoint chances in each of Kanepi`s first three service games and it was the Estonian who converted her first chance in the seventh game to nose ahead. Swiatek saved four setpoints in the ninth game that lasted 16 minutes but could not stop Kanepi from taking the opener on her ninth opportunity after another lengthy game. "In the first set I had so many breakpoints, I felt like I missed my chances because she broke me on her first breakpoint," Swiatek said on court. Read Also | Australian Open: Matteo Berrettini edges past Gael Monfils in five-set thriller, to face Rafael Nadal in SFs "I was pretty annoyed. That was a mistake because I should have been focused on the future, on the next ball." Kanepi, 36, appeared set to progress beyond the last eight at a Grand Slam for the first time when she broke early in the second, with a frustrated Swiatek slapping herself and slamming her racquet on court. The Estonian did most of the damage with her powerful double-handed backhand, leaving Swiatek rooted to the spot and watching helplessly as the winners screamed past. But the 2020 Roland Garros champion, who committed 12 double faults in the match, regained her composure and raised her level in a second set tiebreaker to level the contest at 1-1. Swiatek suffered two more breaks in the decider but managed to break 115th-ranked Kanepi four times. She showed some incredible defence on her second match point, sealing the three-hour contest when Kanepi sent a backhand wide for her 62nd unforced error. Read Also | Australian Open: Sania Mirza-Rajeev Ram bow out, lose quarterfinal clash in straight sets "I`m really glad that I have my voice because I was shouting so loud," Swiatek said. "This match was crazy and without the energy in the stadium, I think it would`ve been really hard to win it." While Kanepi admitted to feeling a "bit heavy" in her legs in the third set, Swiatek was unflustered in the sweltering conditions and said she would be ready for the last-four clash against Collins on Thursday. "My main concern is if the sun is going to be bothering me during the serve," Swiatek told reporters. "So I didn`t really care that it`s hot and humid. "I know that I`m physically really prepared, and I hoped that she`s going to be more tired in the end. I actually wanted to prolong some ... rallies to make her more tired because I have big trust in myself in terms of my physical shape."

Australian Open: Iga Swiatek holds off Kaia Kanepi to reach the semis

<p>Senior batters Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane are set to be demoted in BCCI's central contract list. The two senior players have been under the radar for quite sometime, owing to their poor scores in the red-ball format. Pujara's last Test ton came in early 2019 whereas the former vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane has not been able to score a hundred following his heroics in the MCG Test between India and Australia in the 2020/21 Border-Gavaskar Trophy.</p>

<p>Rahane's 112 in the MCG Test remains his last Test century and, thus, the right-hander also lost the vice-captaincy post recently.&nbsp;Both Rahane and Pujara were offered a Grade A contract by BCCI in 2021, with a&nbsp;salary of Rs 5 crore each (INR 50 millions).</p>

<p>As per The&nbsp;<em>Times of India</em>, the two will be demoted to Grade B due to their low returns with the bat. The players in Grade B have a salary of Rs 3 crore each (INR 30 millions). In addition, as per the report, veteran pacers Ishant Sharma and Umesh Yadav are also likely to be dropped in the contract list.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rahul-dravid-hints-at-change-of-template-for-team-india-in-white-ball-cricket-post-south-africa-odis-447382"><strong>Rahul Dravid hints at change of template for Team India in white-ball cricket post South Africa ODIs</strong></a></p>

<p>On the other hand, the likes of KL Rahul and wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant will not be promoted&nbsp;in the central contract list, the report further adds. While the two players feature in all forms of the game for Team India, they were likely to get a promotion to Grade A+ category. However, the report suggests that it may not happen so soon for them.</p>

<p>The Grade A+ category comprises three players, such as Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma and speedster Jasprit Bumrah. Apart from the contract list, the Indian team for the forthcoming limited-overs series versus West Indies is also set to be announced very soon.</p>

<p>After the disastrous tour of South Africa, India will now gear up to host West Indies and Sri Lanka before the action moves to the IPL 2022 edition.</p>


Senior batters Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane are set to be demoted in BCCI's central contract list. The two senior players have been under the radar for quite sometime, owing to their poor scores in the red-ball format.

Senior batters Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane are set to be demoted in BCCI's central contract list. The two senior players have been under the radar for quite sometime, owing to their poor scores in the red-ball format. Pujara's last Test ton came in early 2019 whereas the former vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane has not been able to score a hundred following his heroics in the MCG Test between India and Australia in the 2020/21 Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Rahane's 112 in the MCG Test remains his last Test century and, thus, the right-hander also lost the vice-captaincy post recently. Both Rahane and Pujara were offered a Grade A contract by BCCI in 2021, with a salary of Rs 5 crore each (INR 50 millions). As per The Times of India, the two will be demoted to Grade B due to their low returns with the bat. The players in Grade B have a salary of Rs 3 crore each (INR 30 millions). In addition, as per the report, veteran pacers Ishant Sharma and Umesh Yadav are also likely to be dropped in the contract list. ALSO READ | Rahul Dravid hints at change of template for Team India in white-ball cricket post South Africa ODIs On the other hand, the likes of KL Rahul and wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant will not be promoted in the central contract list, the report further adds. While the two players feature in all forms of the game for Team India, they were likely to get a promotion to Grade A+ category. However, the report suggests that it may not happen so soon for them. The Grade A+ category comprises three players, such as Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma and speedster Jasprit Bumrah. Apart from the contract list, the Indian team for the forthcoming limited-overs series versus West Indies is also set to be announced very soon. After the disastrous tour of South Africa, India will now gear up to host West Indies and Sri Lanka before the action moves to the IPL 2022 edition.

BCCI central contracts: Test specialists Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane likely face demotion - Report

<p>India has dived into celebrations as the rich and diverse country&nbsp;is celebrating its 73rd&nbsp;Republic Day, a day celebrated to honour the prestigious Constitution of India which came into force&nbsp;in the year 1950. Honourable Prime Minister Narendra Modi and plenty of important personalities have, hence, been busy involved in the Republic Day parade in the national capital, New Delhi on Wednesday.</p>

<p>On the occasion, PM Narendra Modi tweeted and wrote, "Wishing you all a happy Republic Day. Jai Hind!"</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="und">आप सभी को गणतंत्र दिवस की हार्दिक शुभकामनाएं। जय हिंद!<br />
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Wishing you all a happy Republic Day. Jai Hind! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RepublicDay?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RepublicDay</a></p>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1486157370711756803?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 26, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>President of India Ram Nath Kovind also addressed the nation on the eve of the R-Day celebrations nationwide. He told the countrymen in his speech, "My heartiest greetings to all of you, in India and abroad, on the eve of the 73<sup>rd&nbsp;</sup>Republic Day! It is an occasion to celebrate what is common to us all, our Indian-ness. It was on this day in 1950 that this sacred essence of us all assumed a formal shape. That day, India was established as the largest democratic republic and ‘we the people’ put into effect a Constitution that is an inspired document of our collective vision. The diversity and vibrancy of our democracy is appreciated world-wide. It is this spirit of unity and of being one nation which is celebrated&nbsp;every year&nbsp;as Republic Day. This year’s celebrations may be muted due to the pandemic, but the spirit is as strong as ever."</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/padma-shri-for-neeraj-chopra-and-5-others-devendra-jhajharia-to-be-honoured-with-padma-bhushan-447533"><strong>Padma Shri for Neeraj Chopra and 5 others, Devendra Jhajharia to be honoured with Padma Bhushan</strong></a></p>

<p>Wishes have been pouring in from the sports fraternity as well. The likes of Virat Kohli, Sachin Tendulkar, Neeraj Chopra, Sania Mirza and many others have also taken to their respective Twitter handles to lead wishes on the landmark day for the nation. <strong>Here are some wishes from the sporting icons of the country:</strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Happy Republic Day to all. Proud to be an Indian. 🇮🇳</p>
— Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli/status/1486203310092976131?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 26, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">May the sun in his course visit no land more free, more happy, more lovely, more prosperous than our own Bharat.<br />
Jai Hind 🙏🏼<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RepublicDay?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RepublicDay</a> <a href="https://t.co/vdgzIRafZJ">pic.twitter.com/vdgzIRafZJ</a></p>
— Virender Sehwag (@virendersehwag) <a href="https://twitter.com/virendersehwag/status/1486210872250798082?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 26, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Sharing something close to my heart - The “𝘙𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘵 𝘵𝘰 𝘗𝘭𝘢𝘺”.<br />
<br />
Happy <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RepublicDay?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RepublicDay</a> to all my fellow Indians! 🇮🇳<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SportPlayingNation?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SportPlayingNation</a> <a href="https://t.co/RmeoLdydAY">pic.twitter.com/RmeoLdydAY</a></p>
— Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) <a href="https://twitter.com/sachin_rt/status/1486214937412517888?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 26, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">After laying down countless lives, we got the rights to protect each life! Cherish it! Happy <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RepublicDay?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RepublicDay</a>🇮🇳</p>
— Gautam Gambhir (@GautamGambhir) <a href="https://twitter.com/GautamGambhir/status/1486196375125897220?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 26, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Happy Republic Day 🇮🇳 <a href="https://t.co/M1J8ZqSqGa">pic.twitter.com/M1J8ZqSqGa</a></p>
— Sania Mirza (@MirzaSania) <a href="https://twitter.com/MirzaSania/status/1486201720405622784?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 26, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Wish u all a very Happy Republic Day 🙏🙏.. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HappyRepublicDay?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HappyRepublicDay</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/jaihind?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#jaihind</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/India?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#India</a> 🇮🇳🇮🇳</p>
— Saina Nehwal (@NSaina) <a href="https://twitter.com/NSaina/status/1486154248346046464?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 26, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="hi">मेरे सभी देशवासियों को <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/%E0%A4%97%E0%A4%A3%E0%A4%A4%E0%A4%82%E0%A4%A4%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%B0%E0%A4%A6%E0%A4%BF%E0%A4%B5%E0%A4%B8?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#गणतंत्रदिवस</a> के अवसर पर हार्दिक शुभकामनाएं । 🇮🇳<br />
<br />
Wishing all of you a very Happy <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RepublicDay?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RepublicDay</a> <a href="https://t.co/MQOsIl17Wy">pic.twitter.com/MQOsIl17Wy</a></p>
— Neeraj Chopra (@Neeraj_chopra1) <a href="https://twitter.com/Neeraj_chopra1/status/1486204334086168577?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 26, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="und"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RepublicDayIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RepublicDayIndia</a> <a href="https://t.co/i2laY3s7pK">pic.twitter.com/i2laY3s7pK</a></p>
— Vijender Singh (@boxervijender) <a href="https://twitter.com/boxervijender/status/1486200328756207616?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 26, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Greetings to every Indian on the occasion of our 73rd <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RepublicDay?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RepublicDay</a>. Our diversity is our beauty and I wish everyone peace, good health and happiness. Jai Hind! <a href="https://t.co/6pedL3jnwc">pic.twitter.com/6pedL3jnwc</a></p>
— VVS Laxman (@VVSLaxman281) <a href="https://twitter.com/VVSLaxman281/status/1486172951171178501?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 26, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indias-olympic-hero-neeraj-chopra-to-be-awarded-with-param-vashistha-seva-medal-on-republic-day-447451"><strong>India's Olympic hero Neeraj Chopra to be awarded with Param Vashistha Seva Medal on Republic Day</strong></a></p>

<p>For the unversed, this year's celebrations are all the more special as it falls in the 75th year of Independence. Thus the celebrations are marked as the 'Azaadi ka Mahotsav' across the country. Moreover, the yearly R-Day celebrations will now last from January 23-30. January 23 marks the birth anniversary of one of the great Indian freedom fighters, Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, whereas 30th of January is observed as the Martyrs' Day.</p>


India has dived into celebrations as the rich and diverse country is celebrating its 73rd Republic Day, a day celebrated to honour the prestigious Constitution of India which came into force in the year 1950.

India has dived into celebrations as the rich and diverse country is celebrating its 73rd Republic Day, a day celebrated to honour the prestigious Constitution of India which came into force in the year 1950. Honourable Prime Minister Narendra Modi and plenty of important personalities have, hence, been busy involved in the Republic Day parade in the national capital, New Delhi on Wednesday. On the occasion, PM Narendra Modi tweeted and wrote, "Wishing you all a happy Republic Day. Jai Hind!" आप सभी को गणतंत्र दिवस की हार्दिक शुभकामनाएं। जय हिंद! Wishing you all a happy Republic Day. Jai Hind! #RepublicDay — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) January 26, 2022 × President of India Ram Nath Kovind also addressed the nation on the eve of the R-Day celebrations nationwide. He told the countrymen in his speech, "My heartiest greetings to all of you, in India and abroad, on the eve of the 73rd Republic Day! It is an occasion to celebrate what is common to us all, our Indian-ness. It was on this day in 1950 that this sacred essence of us all assumed a formal shape. That day, India was established as the largest democratic republic and ‘we the people’ put into effect a Constitution that is an inspired document of our collective vision. The diversity and vibrancy of our democracy is appreciated world-wide. It is this spirit of unity and of being one nation which is celebrated every year as Republic Day. This year’s celebrations may be muted due to the pandemic, but the spirit is as strong as ever." ALSO READ | Padma Shri for Neeraj Chopra and 5 others, Devendra Jhajharia to be honoured with Padma Bhushan Wishes have been pouring in from the sports fraternity as well. The likes of Virat Kohli, Sachin Tendulkar, Neeraj Chopra, Sania Mirza and many others have also taken to their respective Twitter handles to lead wishes on the landmark day for the nation. Here are some wishes from the sporting icons of the country: Happy Republic Day to all. Proud to be an Indian. 🇮🇳 — Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) January 26, 2022 × May the sun in his course visit no land more free, more happy, more lovely, more prosperous than our own Bharat. Jai Hind 🙏🏼#RepublicDay pic.twitter.com/vdgzIRafZJ — Virender Sehwag (@virendersehwag) January 26, 2022 × Sharing something close to my heart - The “𝘙𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘵 𝘵𝘰 𝘗𝘭𝘢𝘺”. Happy #RepublicDay to all my fellow Indians! 🇮🇳#SportPlayingNation pic.twitter.com/RmeoLdydAY — Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) January 26, 2022 × After laying down countless lives, we got the rights to protect each life! Cherish it! Happy #RepublicDay🇮🇳 — Gautam Gambhir (@GautamGambhir) January 26, 2022 × Happy Republic Day 🇮🇳 pic.twitter.com/M1J8ZqSqGa — Sania Mirza (@MirzaSania) January 26, 2022 × Wish u all a very Happy Republic Day 🙏🙏.. #HappyRepublicDay #jaihind #India 🇮🇳🇮🇳 — Saina Nehwal (@NSaina) January 26, 2022 × मेरे सभी देशवासियों को #गणतंत्रदिवस के अवसर पर हार्दिक शुभकामनाएं । 🇮🇳 Wishing all of you a very Happy #RepublicDay pic.twitter.com/MQOsIl17Wy — Neeraj Chopra (@Neeraj_chopra1) January 26, 2022 × #RepublicDayIndia pic.twitter.com/i2laY3s7pK — Vijender Singh (@boxervijender) January 26, 2022 × Greetings to every Indian on the occasion of our 73rd #RepublicDay. Our diversity is our beauty and I wish everyone peace, good health and happiness. Jai Hind! pic.twitter.com/6pedL3jnwc — VVS Laxman (@VVSLaxman281) January 26, 2022 × ALSO READ | India's Olympic hero Neeraj Chopra to be awarded with Param Vashistha Seva Medal on Republic Day For the unversed, this year's celebrations are all the more special as it falls in the 75th year of Independence. Thus the celebrations are marked as the 'Azaadi ka Mahotsav' across the country. Moreover, the yearly R-Day celebrations will now last from January 23-30. January 23 marks the birth anniversary of one of the great Indian freedom fighters, Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, whereas 30th of January is observed as the Martyrs' Day.

Virat Kohli, Neeraj Chopra lead wishes from sports fraternity as India celebrates 73rd Republic Day

<p>Indian cricket is not at its best at the moment. Following the Virat Kohli-led Indian team's shambolic performance in the 2021 T20 World Cup, held in the UAE, many changes took place in the Indian cricket. Kohli had already announced that the T20 WC will be his last as the captain in the shortest format. He was replaced by Rohit Sharma before Hitman was also named the ODI captain following Kohli's sacking in early December, 2021.</p>

<p>The BCCI selectors sacked Kohli as the ODI captain, with a view to have only one white-ball skipper going forward. Following that, BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly stated that he had requested Kohli to not quit as T20I captain, however, the latter denied all such claims during his explosive presser before India's tour of South Africa, on December 15.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kohli also stated that he had no prior communication from the national selectors before being sacked as the ODI captain. While the India-SA Tests ended amid tension between Kohli and the board-national selectors, the 33-year-old went onto resign as the Test captain as well following the red-ball series in the rainbow nation, on January 15.</p>

<p>Thus, the tension between Kohli and the BCCI is evident from the outside. Kapil Dev, India's first World Cup-winning captain, has now joined the bandwagon and reacted to the whole controversy. He feels both sides should talk it out and sort things out, keeping the country and team in mind.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/playing-against-india-is-md-rizwan-recalls-pakistans-historic-triumph-over-men-in-blue-in-2021-t20wc-447525"><strong>'Playing against India is...': Md Rizwan recalls Pakistan's historic triumph over Men in Blue in 2021 T20WC</strong></a></p>

<p>Speaking to&nbsp;<em>The Week</em>&nbsp;magazine, Kapil pointed out, "They should have sorted out the issues between them. Pick up the phone, talk to each other, put the country and team before yourself. In the beginning, I also got everything I wanted. But sometimes, you may not get it. That should not mean that you leave the captaincy. If he has left it because of that, then I do not know what to say. He is a fabulous player; [I want to] watch him play so much more and score runs, especially in Test cricket.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-vs-bcci-is-there-any-real-winner-in-this-tussle-446528">Virat Kohli vs BCCI: Is there any real winner in this tussle?</a></strong></p>

<p>Rahul Dravid-led India recently ended their dismal tour of SA. They lost the Tests 2-1 and were whitewashed in the preceding three ODIs. With many blaming the Kohli vs BCCI row for India's downfall in the African nation, the Indian cricket loyalists hope that the matter is sorted out at the earliest to prevent the team's downfall going forward.</p>


Indian cricket is not at its best at the moment. Following the Virat Kohli-led Indian team's shambolic performance in the 2021 T20 World Cup, held in the UAE, many changes took place in the Indian cricket.

Indian cricket is not at its best at the moment. Following the Virat Kohli-led Indian team's shambolic performance in the 2021 T20 World Cup, held in the UAE, many changes took place in the Indian cricket. Kohli had already announced that the T20 WC will be his last as the captain in the shortest format. He was replaced by Rohit Sharma before Hitman was also named the ODI captain following Kohli's sacking in early December, 2021. The BCCI selectors sacked Kohli as the ODI captain, with a view to have only one white-ball skipper going forward. Following that, BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly stated that he had requested Kohli to not quit as T20I captain, however, the latter denied all such claims during his explosive presser before India's tour of South Africa, on December 15. Kohli also stated that he had no prior communication from the national selectors before being sacked as the ODI captain. While the India-SA Tests ended amid tension between Kohli and the board-national selectors, the 33-year-old went onto resign as the Test captain as well following the red-ball series in the rainbow nation, on January 15. Thus, the tension between Kohli and the BCCI is evident from the outside. Kapil Dev, India's first World Cup-winning captain, has now joined the bandwagon and reacted to the whole controversy. He feels both sides should talk it out and sort things out, keeping the country and team in mind. ALSO READ | 'Playing against India is...': Md Rizwan recalls Pakistan's historic triumph over Men in Blue in 2021 T20WC Speaking to The Week magazine, Kapil pointed out, "They should have sorted out the issues between them. Pick up the phone, talk to each other, put the country and team before yourself. In the beginning, I also got everything I wanted. But sometimes, you may not get it. That should not mean that you leave the captaincy. If he has left it because of that, then I do not know what to say. He is a fabulous player; [I want to] watch him play so much more and score runs, especially in Test cricket. ALSO READ | Virat Kohli vs BCCI: Is there any real winner in this tussle? Rahul Dravid-led India recently ended their dismal tour of SA. They lost the Tests 2-1 and were whitewashed in the preceding three ODIs. With many blaming the Kohli vs BCCI row for India's downfall in the African nation, the Indian cricket loyalists hope that the matter is sorted out at the earliest to prevent the team's downfall going forward.

Pick up the phone and talk: Kapil Dev opines on Virat Kohli vs BCCI row, says 'put country, team before self'

<p>World number seven Matteo Berrettini beats Gael Monfils of France 6-4, 6-4, 3-6, 3-6, 6-2 in a match that lasted for three hours and 49 minutes to enter the men`s singles semi-final here at the Rod Laver Arena on Tuesday. The Wimbledon finalist will now face 20-time grand slam champion Rafael Nadal for a place in the final. The seventh seed Italian Berrettini started off on a confident note breaking the Frenchman Monfils in the fifth game of the first set to take the lead. From there on Berrettini held his serves to win the opening set 6-4.</p>

<p>Matteo Berrettini got a great opportunity in the second set to take an early lead as he had two break points taking a 15-40 lead. But Gael Monfils held his nerve save those breakpoints and the Frenchman saved three break points in the game to win it. In the fourth game, Berrettini saved four breakpoints and the game went to 10 duece. Finally, there was a break of serve in the seventh game Berrettini broke Monfils to take a lead and went on to win the set by a similar score of 6-4 taking a two-set lead.Just when it seemed that Berrettini could take away the match Monfils made a comeback.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-open-sania-mirza-rajeev-ram-bow-out-lose-quarterfinal-clash-in-straight-sets-447390"><strong>Australian Open: Sania Mirza-Rajeev Ram bow out, lose quarterfinal clash in straight sets</strong></a></p>

<p>In the fifth game, Berrettini conceded a double fault to give Monfils a break as the Frenchman took a 4-2 lead and went on to win the set 6-3 as the match went to the fourth set.Gael Monfils got the momentum and the Frenchman broke Berrettini in the fifth and ninth game to win the set 6-3 and make it two sets apiece as his wife. The fifth and final set the Italian made a roaring comeback breaking Berrettini twice in the first and third game to take the race to a 4-0 lead ultimately winning the set 6-2 as well as the match. The Italian will now face 20-time grand slam champion Rafael Nadal in the final.</p>


World number seven Matteo Berrettini beats Gael Monfils of France 6-4, 6-4, 3-6, 3-6, 6-2 in a match that lasted for three hours and 49 minutes to enter the men`s singles semi-final here at the Rod Laver Arena on Tuesday.

World number seven Matteo Berrettini beats Gael Monfils of France 6-4, 6-4, 3-6, 3-6, 6-2 in a match that lasted for three hours and 49 minutes to enter the men`s singles semi-final here at the Rod Laver Arena on Tuesday. The Wimbledon finalist will now face 20-time grand slam champion Rafael Nadal for a place in the final. The seventh seed Italian Berrettini started off on a confident note breaking the Frenchman Monfils in the fifth game of the first set to take the lead. From there on Berrettini held his serves to win the opening set 6-4. Matteo Berrettini got a great opportunity in the second set to take an early lead as he had two break points taking a 15-40 lead. But Gael Monfils held his nerve save those breakpoints and the Frenchman saved three break points in the game to win it. In the fourth game, Berrettini saved four breakpoints and the game went to 10 duece. Finally, there was a break of serve in the seventh game Berrettini broke Monfils to take a lead and went on to win the set by a similar score of 6-4 taking a two-set lead.Just when it seemed that Berrettini could take away the match Monfils made a comeback. ALSO READ | Australian Open: Sania Mirza-Rajeev Ram bow out, lose quarterfinal clash in straight sets In the fifth game, Berrettini conceded a double fault to give Monfils a break as the Frenchman took a 4-2 lead and went on to win the set 6-3 as the match went to the fourth set.Gael Monfils got the momentum and the Frenchman broke Berrettini in the fifth and ninth game to win the set 6-3 and make it two sets apiece as his wife. The fifth and final set the Italian made a roaring comeback breaking Berrettini twice in the first and third game to take the race to a 4-0 lead ultimately winning the set 6-2 as well as the match. The Italian will now face 20-time grand slam champion Rafael Nadal in the final.

Australian Open: Matteo Berrettini edges past Gael Monfils in five-set thriller, to face Rafael Nadal in SFs

<p>Babar Azam-led Pakistan were very impressive in the 2021 T20 World Cup, in the UAE. Being unbeaten enroute the semi-finals, the Men in Green couldn't enter the final after losing their semi-final fixture to eventual winners Aaron Finch-led Australia in Dubai.</p>

<p>There were many heroes for Pakistan throughout their campaign, such as Babar, Md Rizwan, Shaheen Afridi, Haris Rauf, Shoaib Malik, Asif Ali, etc. Recently, wicketkeeper-batter Rizwan recalled Pakistan's stunning ten-wicket win over Virat Kohli's Team India in the T20 WC.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/what-are-you-doing-rizwan-recalls-hilarious-chat-with-kohli-during-high-voltage-indo-pak-t20-wc-tie-445969">'What are you doing' - Rizwan recalls hilarious chat with Kohli during high-voltage Indo-Pak T20 WC tie</a></strong></p>

<p>"Honestly, it felt like a normal match, like any other game. We felt the hype of the World Cup after getting there (in UAE). Before the match, I had an interview with Indian media and they asked if I was nervous. I told them that I don't feel any different as of now but if and when I do, I will let you know (chuckles)," Rizwan told Cricket Pakistan in an interview.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After Pakistan returned home following their impressive run in the T20 WC, Rizwan revealed that it was then when the team realised how much their win over India meant to the countrymen. "But the response and love we received from the fans and the country cannot be explained in words. When we got home from the Bangladesh tour after the World Cup, the reception made me realise that playing against India is not ordinary because there's much more at stake than playing against any other opposition,” Rizwan added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pak-better-than-india-akhtar-makes-bold-claim-predicts-men-in-green-to-win-2022-t20-wc-face-off-447142"><strong>PAK better than India: Akhtar makes bold claim, predicts Men in Green to win 2022 T20 WC face-off</strong></a></p>

<p>Recently, ICC revealed the full schedule for the 2022 T20 WC, to be held later this year in Australia. India and Pakistan are once again placed in the same group, i.e. Pool 2, and will lock horns with each other on October 23 at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground, MCG.</p>


Babar Azam-led Pakistan were very impressive in the 2021 T20 World Cup, in the UAE. Being unbeaten enroute the semi-finals, the Men in Green couldn't enter the final after losing their semi-final fixture to eventual winners Aaron Finch-led Australia in Dubai.

Babar Azam-led Pakistan were very impressive in the 2021 T20 World Cup, in the UAE. Being unbeaten enroute the semi-finals, the Men in Green couldn't enter the final after losing their semi-final fixture to eventual winners Aaron Finch-led Australia in Dubai. There were many heroes for Pakistan throughout their campaign, such as Babar, Md Rizwan, Shaheen Afridi, Haris Rauf, Shoaib Malik, Asif Ali, etc. Recently, wicketkeeper-batter Rizwan recalled Pakistan's stunning ten-wicket win over Virat Kohli's Team India in the T20 WC. ALSO READ | 'What are you doing' - Rizwan recalls hilarious chat with Kohli during high-voltage Indo-Pak T20 WC tie "Honestly, it felt like a normal match, like any other game. We felt the hype of the World Cup after getting there (in UAE). Before the match, I had an interview with Indian media and they asked if I was nervous. I told them that I don't feel any different as of now but if and when I do, I will let you know (chuckles)," Rizwan told Cricket Pakistan in an interview. After Pakistan returned home following their impressive run in the T20 WC, Rizwan revealed that it was then when the team realised how much their win over India meant to the countrymen. "But the response and love we received from the fans and the country cannot be explained in words. When we got home from the Bangladesh tour after the World Cup, the reception made me realise that playing against India is not ordinary because there's much more at stake than playing against any other opposition,” Rizwan added. ALSO READ | PAK better than India: Akhtar makes bold claim, predicts Men in Green to win 2022 T20 WC face-off Recently, ICC revealed the full schedule for the 2022 T20 WC, to be held later this year in Australia. India and Pakistan are once again placed in the same group, i.e. Pool 2, and will lock horns with each other on October 23 at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground, MCG.

'Playing against India is...': Md Rizwan recalls Pakistan's historic triumph over Men in Blue in 2021 T20WC

IPL 2022 mega auction: Veteran Indian players who might go unsold

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