<p>Pat Cummins-led Australia thrashed England by 146 runs in the fifth and final Ashes Test to claim the series 4-0. The Joe Root-led England's&nbsp;disastrous run in the Ashes 2021/22 edition finally ended, as the Three Lions remain winless Down Under since 2010-11.&nbsp;</p>

<p>With the series done and dusted, Cummins &amp; Co. will look to carry on the momentum and go the distance in the ongoing ICC World Test Championship second cycle. On the other hand, Root-led England have plenty to ponder upon and need to&nbsp;revamp at the earliest in the red-ball format.</p>

<p>After the series ended, Aussie players such as Alex Carey, Player-of-the-Series Travis Head and Nathan Lyon were joined by England captain Root and experienced pacer James Anderson for some drinks. However, as the celebrations got 'too loud', the cricketers were reportedly thrown out of the Hobart brewery.</p>

<p>The players' celebrations were interrupted by the police, who had to intervene and ordered the cricketers to leave the brewery.</p>

<p>In a viral video, the four police officers identified the cricketers and could be heard saying, "Too loud. You have obviously been asked to pack up, so we’ve been asked to come. Time for bed. Thank you." However, no arrests were made.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/there-comes-a-stage-where-you-cant-afridi-opines-on-virat-kohlis-decision-to-quit-test-captaincy-445655"><strong>'There comes a stage where you can't...': Afridi opines on Virat Kohli's decision to quit Test captaincy</strong></a></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Surely the Aust cricket team can have a beer? Whats with the police all of a sudden, in all states <a href="https://t.co/4ITdJX3K0K">pic.twitter.com/4ITdJX3K0K</a></p>
— Ben Roads 🇦🇺 (@ben_roads) <a href="https://twitter.com/ben_roads/status/1483286548485668865?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 18, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/stuff-of-dreams-pat-cummins-on-leading-australia-to-4-0-win-against-england-in-ashes-2021-22-445208"><strong>'Stuff of dreams': Pat Cummins on leading Australia to 4-0 win against England in Ashes 2021-22</strong></a></p>

<p>After England's shambolic performance, Captain Root said at the post-match presentation, "It's been a frustrating tour, tough tour for us. We have to keep learning to get better. Not go away from here and keep making the same mistakes. Not long before we play Test cricket again and an opportunity to turn things around. It's pretty obvious we need to be putting more runs on the board. Too often we have not given our bowlers enough. We have been outplayed by Australia. Sometimes you have to put your hand up and say a team outplayed us."</p>

<p>On the other hand, Cummins stated, "Really is (stuff of dreams). Pretty crazy. To be at the end of a 5-match series with so many positives and 4-0, yeah really pumped. I am really happy as a captain, not sure if he is (smiles, on not having to bowl Lyon in the entire game). We have had some 15 players used in this series, some tough calls. Certainly feels like we are on to something big."</p>

<p>In the latest WTC points table, Australia are now in the second position -- behind Sri Lanka -- whereas England have slipped to the bottom.</p>


Pat Cummins-led Australia thrashed England by 146 runs in the fifth and final Ashes Test to claim the series 4-0. The Joe Root-led England's disastrous run in the Ashes 2021/22 edition finally ended, as the Three Lions remain winless Down Under since 2010-11.

Pat Cummins-led Australia thrashed England by 146 runs in the fifth and final Ashes Test to claim the series 4-0. The Joe Root-led England's disastrous run in the Ashes 2021/22 edition finally ended, as the Three Lions remain winless Down Under since 2010-11. With the series done and dusted, Cummins & Co. will look to carry on the momentum and go the distance in the ongoing ICC World Test Championship second cycle. On the other hand, Root-led England have plenty to ponder upon and need to revamp at the earliest in the red-ball format. After the series ended, Aussie players such as Alex Carey, Player-of-the-Series Travis Head and Nathan Lyon were joined by England captain Root and experienced pacer James Anderson for some drinks. However, as the celebrations got 'too loud', the cricketers were reportedly thrown out of the Hobart brewery. The players' celebrations were interrupted by the police, who had to intervene and ordered the cricketers to leave the brewery. In a viral video, the four police officers identified the cricketers and could be heard saying, "Too loud. You have obviously been asked to pack up, so we’ve been asked to come. Time for bed. Thank you." However, no arrests were made. ALSO READ | 'There comes a stage where you can't...': Afridi opines on Virat Kohli's decision to quit Test captaincy Surely the Aust cricket team can have a beer? Whats with the police all of a sudden, in all states pic.twitter.com/4ITdJX3K0K — Ben Roads 🇦🇺 (@ben_roads) January 18, 2022 × ALSO READ | 'Stuff of dreams': Pat Cummins on leading Australia to 4-0 win against England in Ashes 2021-22 After England's shambolic performance, Captain Root said at the post-match presentation, "It's been a frustrating tour, tough tour for us. We have to keep learning to get better. Not go away from here and keep making the same mistakes. Not long before we play Test cricket again and an opportunity to turn things around. It's pretty obvious we need to be putting more runs on the board. Too often we have not given our bowlers enough. We have been outplayed by Australia. Sometimes you have to put your hand up and say a team outplayed us." On the other hand, Cummins stated, "Really is (stuff of dreams). Pretty crazy. To be at the end of a 5-match series with so many positives and 4-0, yeah really pumped. I am really happy as a captain, not sure if he is (smiles, on not having to bowl Lyon in the entire game). We have had some 15 players used in this series, some tough calls. Certainly feels like we are on to something big." In the latest WTC points table, Australia are now in the second position -- behind Sri Lanka -- whereas England have slipped to the bottom.

WATCH: Police intervene as Australia get 'too loud' during celebrations after thumping Ashes win

<p>Virat Kohli, on January 15, announced his decision to step aside as the Indian Test captain. The 33-year-old stunned one and all with his sudden decision, which came only a day after India's three-match Test series loss to hosts Dean Elgar-led South Africa.</p>

<p>Kohli tweeted saying, "Everything has to come to a halt at some stage and for me as Test captain of India, it’s now. It’s been 7 years of hard work, toil and relentless perseverance every day to take the team in the right direction. I’ve done the job with absolute honesty and left nothing out there. Everything has to come to a halt at some stage and for me as Test Captain of India, it’s now."</p>

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<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/you-will-always-be-my-captain-king-siraj-gets-emotional-shares-heartfelt-post-for-superhero-virat-kohli-445630"><strong>You will always be my captain, King: Siraj gets emotional, shares heartfelt post for 'superhero' Virat Kohli</strong></a></p>

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<p>Kohli's decision shocked the entire cricketing fraternity. Under him, India rose to the No. 1 rankings and ended at the top spot for five consecutive years in ICC's rankings after annual updates. Kohli led India to their maiden Test series win on Australian soil, an unassailable 2-1 lead over England in the incomplete five Tests in the United Kingdom, plenty of wins at home and the final of the inaugural ICC WTC cycle.</p>

<p>As many former cricketers and experts of the game have reacted to Kohli's latest revelation, former Pakistan captain and all-rounder Shahid Afridi also joined the bandwagon.</p>

<p>"It's fine in my opinion. Virat has played enough cricket and led the team well. And I believe this is the correct decision. There comes a stage where you can't handle pressure, and because of it, your own performances get affected. So, I think he has captained for a long time and at a great level. As a batsman, it's time he enjoys his cricket," Afridi said on the show ‘Game Set Match’ on&nbsp;<em>Samaa</em></p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-am-not-here-to-give-a-judgment-jasprit-bumrah-reacts-to-virat-kohli-quitting-as-test-captain-445472"><strong>I am not here to give a judgment: Jasprit Bumrah reacts to Virat Kohli quitting as Test captain</strong></a></p>

<p>Kohli had already stepped aside as the T20I captain, post the World Cup in the UAE last year, and was removed as the ODI captain in late 2021. He will now shift his focus to return to his very best as a batter -- having not scored an international ton since late 2019 -- in India's upcoming assignments.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Currently, KL Rahul-led India are gearing up for the three ODIs versus South Africa, in the African nation, which gets underway on January 19 at Paarl. Limited-overs captain Rohit Sharma has been ruled out due to hamstring injury.</p>


Virat Kohli, on January 15, announced his decision to step aside as the Indian Test captain. The 33-year-old stunned one and all with his sudden decision, which came only a day after India's three-match Test series loss to hosts Dean Elgar-led South Africa.

Virat Kohli, on January 15, announced his decision to step aside as the Indian Test captain. The 33-year-old stunned one and all with his sudden decision, which came only a day after India's three-match Test series loss to hosts Dean Elgar-led South Africa. Kohli tweeted saying, "Everything has to come to a halt at some stage and for me as Test captain of India, it’s now. It’s been 7 years of hard work, toil and relentless perseverance every day to take the team in the right direction. I’ve done the job with absolute honesty and left nothing out there. Everything has to come to a halt at some stage and for me as Test Captain of India, it’s now." 🇮🇳 pic.twitter.com/huBL6zZ7fZ — Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) January 15, 2022 × ALSO READ | You will always be my captain, King: Siraj gets emotional, shares heartfelt post for 'superhero' Virat Kohli × Kohli's decision shocked the entire cricketing fraternity. Under him, India rose to the No. 1 rankings and ended at the top spot for five consecutive years in ICC's rankings after annual updates. Kohli led India to their maiden Test series win on Australian soil, an unassailable 2-1 lead over England in the incomplete five Tests in the United Kingdom, plenty of wins at home and the final of the inaugural ICC WTC cycle. As many former cricketers and experts of the game have reacted to Kohli's latest revelation, former Pakistan captain and all-rounder Shahid Afridi also joined the bandwagon. "It's fine in my opinion. Virat has played enough cricket and led the team well. And I believe this is the correct decision. There comes a stage where you can't handle pressure, and because of it, your own performances get affected. So, I think he has captained for a long time and at a great level. As a batsman, it's time he enjoys his cricket," Afridi said on the show ‘Game Set Match’ on Samaa ALSO READ | I am not here to give a judgment: Jasprit Bumrah reacts to Virat Kohli quitting as Test captain Kohli had already stepped aside as the T20I captain, post the World Cup in the UAE last year, and was removed as the ODI captain in late 2021. He will now shift his focus to return to his very best as a batter -- having not scored an international ton since late 2019 -- in India's upcoming assignments. Currently, KL Rahul-led India are gearing up for the three ODIs versus South Africa, in the African nation, which gets underway on January 19 at Paarl. Limited-overs captain Rohit Sharma has been ruled out due to hamstring injury.

'There comes a stage where you can't...': Afridi opines on Virat Kohli's decision to quit Test captaincy

<p>In the past few months, a lot has changed in Indian cricket -- especially in the senior men's team. Virat Kohli announced, in mid-September 2021, that the T20 World Cup will be his last assignment as skipper in the shortest format. In early December, he was sacked as the ODI captain as the national selectors wanted a single captain for the white-ball formats.</p>

<p>On January 15 2022, a day after India's three-match Test series loss to hosts Dean Elgar-led South Africa, Kohli announced that he is stepping down as the red-ball captain as well. He tweeted saying, "Everything has to come to a halt at some stage and for me as Test captain of India, it’s now. It’s been 7 years of hard work, toil and relentless perseverance every day to take the team in the right direction. I’ve done the job with absolute honesty and left nothing out there. Everything has to come to a halt at some stage and for me as Test Captain of India, it’s now."</p>

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<p>Since then, several former cricketers, experts of the game and his current teammates have wished Kohli all the best for his future -- as he will now represent India solely as a player in all formats -- and lauded his overall leadership tenure.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/irrespective-of-what-kohli-says-or-what-ganguly-tweets-its-battle-of-two-stalwarts-says-ex-pakistan-captain-445521"><strong>Irrespective of what Kohli says or what Ganguly tweets, it's battle of two stalwarts, says ex-Pakistan captain</strong></a></p>

<p>Taking to Instagram, pacer Mohammed Siraj also shared a heartfelt post for outgoing skipper Kohli. Under Kohli, Siraj has improved leaps and bounds by climbing up the ladder and honing his skills across formats. It is to be noted that Kohli has captained Siraj in the IPL as well, till the 2021 edition, for the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB). Siraj&nbsp;wrote,<em>&nbsp;"To my superhero, I cannot be thankful enough for the support and the encouragement that I got from you. You have always been my great brother. Thank you for trusting me and believing in me for all these years. For seeing the great at my worst. You will be always be my captain King Kohli."</em></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/CY17R6drRWg/?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 Mohammed Siraj (@mohammedsirajofficial)</a></p>
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<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-am-not-here-to-give-a-judgment-jasprit-bumrah-reacts-to-virat-kohli-quitting-as-test-captain-445472"><strong>I am not here to give a judgment: Jasprit Bumrah reacts to Virat Kohli quitting as Test captain</strong></a></p>

<p>Coming to captaincy, Rohit Sharma has already succeeded Kohli as the limited-overs captain and is touted to be his successor in the red-ball format as well. The other candidates in the frame are KL Rahul, Jasprit Bumrah, Rishabh Pant.&nbsp;</p>

<p>For now, India are gearing up for the three-match ODI series, in the rainbow nation, which gets underway on January 19 at Paarl. Rahul will lead the Kohli-starrer Team India with Rohit ruled out due to hamstring injury.</p>


In the past few months, a lot has changed in Indian cricket -- especially in the senior men's team. Virat Kohli announced, in mid-September 2021, that the T20 World Cup will be his last assignment as skipper in the shortest format.

In the past few months, a lot has changed in Indian cricket -- especially in the senior men's team. Virat Kohli announced, in mid-September 2021, that the T20 World Cup will be his last assignment as skipper in the shortest format. In early December, he was sacked as the ODI captain as the national selectors wanted a single captain for the white-ball formats. On January 15 2022, a day after India's three-match Test series loss to hosts Dean Elgar-led South Africa, Kohli announced that he is stepping down as the red-ball captain as well. He tweeted saying, "Everything has to come to a halt at some stage and for me as Test captain of India, it’s now. It’s been 7 years of hard work, toil and relentless perseverance every day to take the team in the right direction. I’ve done the job with absolute honesty and left nothing out there. Everything has to come to a halt at some stage and for me as Test Captain of India, it’s now." 🇮🇳 pic.twitter.com/huBL6zZ7fZ — Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) January 15, 2022 × Since then, several former cricketers, experts of the game and his current teammates have wished Kohli all the best for his future -- as he will now represent India solely as a player in all formats -- and lauded his overall leadership tenure. ALSO READ | Irrespective of what Kohli says or what Ganguly tweets, it's battle of two stalwarts, says ex-Pakistan captain Taking to Instagram, pacer Mohammed Siraj also shared a heartfelt post for outgoing skipper Kohli. Under Kohli, Siraj has improved leaps and bounds by climbing up the ladder and honing his skills across formats. It is to be noted that Kohli has captained Siraj in the IPL as well, till the 2021 edition, for the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB). Siraj wrote, "To my superhero, I cannot be thankful enough for the support and the encouragement that I got from you. You have always been my great brother. Thank you for trusting me and believing in me for all these years. For seeing the great at my worst. You will be always be my captain King Kohli." View this post on Instagram A post shared by Mohammed Siraj (@mohammedsirajofficial) × ALSO READ | I am not here to give a judgment: Jasprit Bumrah reacts to Virat Kohli quitting as Test captain Coming to captaincy, Rohit Sharma has already succeeded Kohli as the limited-overs captain and is touted to be his successor in the red-ball format as well. The other candidates in the frame are KL Rahul, Jasprit Bumrah, Rishabh Pant. For now, India are gearing up for the three-match ODI series, in the rainbow nation, which gets underway on January 19 at Paarl. Rahul will lead the Kohli-starrer Team India with Rohit ruled out due to hamstring injury.

You will always be my captain, King: Siraj gets emotional, shares heartfelt post for 'superhero' Virat Kohli

<p>On Monday (January 17), the Best FIFA Football Awards 2021 were held. The sixth edition of the Best FIFA Football Awards took place at the FIFA headquarters in Zurich. Polish player Robert Lewandowski walked past Lionel Messi, Mohammed Salah and the likes to be crowned the The Best Men's player 2021. For the unversed, Lewandowski had brought an end to Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo's dominance to win the same award last time around as well.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Lewandowski has been on a roll in the last few years.&nbsp;Last season in the Bundesliga, the 33-year-old Polish captain had broken the legendary Gerd Mueller's record by scoring 41 goals in a single campaign. In the last calendar year, Lewandowski scored a staggering 69 goals for club and country. With him winning the top award for the second time, Lewandowski has also come at par with Ronaldo (also having two such top honours under his belt).&nbsp;</p>

<p>It is to be noted that Lewandowski had lost the&nbsp;Ballon d'Or 2021, however, he has a lot to cherish for with his latest triumph, beating some tough competitors in the process.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/burnley-ask-premier-league-to-postpone-their-game-against-watford-445510">Burnley ask Premier League to postpone their game against Watford</a></strong></p>

<p>The Bayern Munich forward Lewandowski finished at the top&nbsp;courtesy most number of votes. On the other hand,&nbsp; Paris Saint-Germain's current forward Messi finished second, followed by Liverpool winger Mohamed Salah.</p>

<p>Talking about the women's category, Barcelona superstar Alexia Putellas emerged at the top. Putellas has been having&nbsp;a dream run, having already won the Ballon d'Or 2021 earlier.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/chelsea-doing-all-they-can-to-help-misfiring-romelu-lukaku-says-thomas-tuchel-445526"><strong>Chelsea doing all they can to help misfiring Romelu Lukaku, says Thomas Tuchel</strong></a></p>

<p>The award ceremony is organised by the apex football governing body, i.e.&nbsp;(Fédération Internationale de Football Association) FIFA. Though the Ballon d'Or award ceremony was cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic in 2021, The Best FIFA Football Awards ceremony went ahead virtually.</p>

<p>On the occasion, the FIFPro World XI was also announced:</p>

<p><strong>Goalkeeper:</strong>&nbsp;<em>Gianluigi Donnarumma (AC Milan/Paris Saint-Germain)</em></p>

<p><strong>Defenders:</strong>&nbsp;<em>David Alaba (FC Bayern München/Real Madrid CF), Leonardo Bonucci (Juventus FC) and Rúben Dias (Manchester City FC)</em></p>

<p><strong>Midfielders:</strong>&nbsp;<em>Kevin De Bruyne (Manchester City FC), Jorginho (Chelsea FC) and N’Golo Kanté (Chelsea FC)&nbsp;</em></p>

<p><strong>Forwards:</strong>&nbsp;<em>Ronaldo (Juventus FC/Manchester United FC), Erling Haaland (BV Borussia 09 Dortmund), Lewandowski (FC Bayern München) and Messi (FC Barcelona/Paris Saint-Germain)</em></p>


On Monday (January 17), the Best FIFA Football Awards 2021 were held. The sixth edition of the Best FIFA Football Awards took place at the FIFA headquarters in Zurich.

On Monday (January 17), the Best FIFA Football Awards 2021 were held. The sixth edition of the Best FIFA Football Awards took place at the FIFA headquarters in Zurich. Polish player Robert Lewandowski walked past Lionel Messi, Mohammed Salah and the likes to be crowned the The Best Men's player 2021. For the unversed, Lewandowski had brought an end to Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo's dominance to win the same award last time around as well. Lewandowski has been on a roll in the last few years. Last season in the Bundesliga, the 33-year-old Polish captain had broken the legendary Gerd Mueller's record by scoring 41 goals in a single campaign. In the last calendar year, Lewandowski scored a staggering 69 goals for club and country. With him winning the top award for the second time, Lewandowski has also come at par with Ronaldo (also having two such top honours under his belt). It is to be noted that Lewandowski had lost the Ballon d'Or 2021, however, he has a lot to cherish for with his latest triumph, beating some tough competitors in the process. ALSO READ | Burnley ask Premier League to postpone their game against Watford The Bayern Munich forward Lewandowski finished at the top courtesy most number of votes. On the other hand, Paris Saint-Germain's current forward Messi finished second, followed by Liverpool winger Mohamed Salah. Talking about the women's category, Barcelona superstar Alexia Putellas emerged at the top. Putellas has been having a dream run, having already won the Ballon d'Or 2021 earlier. ALSO READ | Chelsea doing all they can to help misfiring Romelu Lukaku, says Thomas Tuchel The award ceremony is organised by the apex football governing body, i.e. (Fédération Internationale de Football Association) FIFA. Though the Ballon d'Or award ceremony was cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic in 2021, The Best FIFA Football Awards ceremony went ahead virtually. On the occasion, the FIFPro World XI was also announced: Goalkeeper: Gianluigi Donnarumma (AC Milan/Paris Saint-Germain) Defenders: David Alaba (FC Bayern München/Real Madrid CF), Leonardo Bonucci (Juventus FC) and Rúben Dias (Manchester City FC) Midfielders: Kevin De Bruyne (Manchester City FC), Jorginho (Chelsea FC) and N’Golo Kanté (Chelsea FC) Forwards: Ronaldo (Juventus FC/Manchester United FC), Erling Haaland (BV Borussia 09 Dortmund), Lewandowski (FC Bayern München) and Messi (FC Barcelona/Paris Saint-Germain)

FIFA Best Men's player 2021: Robert Lewandowski edges past Lionel Messi to walk away with top honour

<p>MELBOURNE (Reuters) - Andy Murray dipped into the depth of his defensive skills to tame big-hitting Nikoloz Basilashvili during a thrilling 6-1 3-6 6-4 6-7(5) 6-4 win on Tuesday to reach the second round of the Australian Open for the first time in five years.<br />
<br />
The former world number one, a five-time finalist at Melbourne Park, has seen his ranking plummet since hip surgery in 2019 and long injury layoffs that followed and needed a wildcard into the main draw of this year`s tournament.<br />
<br />
The 113th-ranked Murray, who won the last of his three major titles at Wimbledon in 2016, showed he still had the game to trouble top players on the tour and forced the 21st seed from Georgia into making a litany of errors.<br />
<br />
It was Murray`s first match at Melbourne Park since a five-set defeat by Roberto Bautista Agut in 2019. He skipped the 2018 and 2020 tournaments with injury and also missed the last edition after testing positive for COVID-19 in the leadup.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/aus-open-rafael-nadal-makes-stunning-start-in-his-quest-to-win-a-record-21st-grand-slam-445345"><strong>Aus Open: Rafael Nadal makes stunning start in his quest to win a record 21st Grand Slam</strong></a></p>

<p>"It`s amazing. It`s been a tough three-four years. I`ve put in a lot of work to get back here," Murray said in his on-court interview. "I`ve played on this court many times and the atmosphere is incredible. I`ve always had fantastic support.<br />
<br />
"This is the one where I thought potentially I`d played my last match on three years ago but amazing to be back winning a five-set battle like that. Can`t ask for anything more."<br />
<br />
This was the third meeting between the pair with the British 34-year-old, who reached the fourth round at the Australian Open in 2017, triumphing in both previous encounters including last week`s win en route to the final in Sydney.<br />
<br />
Basilashvili, 29, committed 99 unforced errors, many of which came when the Murray ran from one end of the court to the other to defend doggedly and making his opponent play an extra shot in the rallies.<br />
<br />
Murray often had to lean on his racquet to catch his breath for a few seconds as the match went into a deciding set but after an exchange of breaks he converted another opportunity to seal the win after almost a four-hour battle.<br />
<br />
After Basilashvili found the net with his return on his third match-point, Murray let out a huge roar and a "let`s go" as an appreciative crowd at the John Cain Arena showcourt gave him a standing ovation.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/novak-djokovic-cannot-play-french-open-without-covid-19-vaccine-says-french-sports-ministry-445506"><strong>Novak Djokovic cannot play French Open without COVID-19 vaccine, says French Sports Ministry</strong></a></p>

<p>"He hits the ball huge from the back of the court," Murray said. "I had to do a lot of running today, lot of defending.<br />
<br />
"He`s not the sort of guy you want to see next to your name in the draw too often. But obviously a little bit of confidence from the win last week and I thankfully managed to get over the line today."<br />
<br />
Murray will next meet Japanese qualifier Taro Daniel for a place in the third round at the year`s first major.</p>


MELBOURNE (Reuters) - Andy Murray dipped into the depth of his defensive skills to tame big-hitting Nikoloz Basilashvili during a thrilling 6-1 3-6 6-4 6-7(5) 6-4 win on Tuesday to reach the second round of the Australian Open for the first time in five years.

MELBOURNE (Reuters) - Andy Murray dipped into the depth of his defensive skills to tame big-hitting Nikoloz Basilashvili during a thrilling 6-1 3-6 6-4 6-7(5) 6-4 win on Tuesday to reach the second round of the Australian Open for the first time in five years. The former world number one, a five-time finalist at Melbourne Park, has seen his ranking plummet since hip surgery in 2019 and long injury layoffs that followed and needed a wildcard into the main draw of this year`s tournament. The 113th-ranked Murray, who won the last of his three major titles at Wimbledon in 2016, showed he still had the game to trouble top players on the tour and forced the 21st seed from Georgia into making a litany of errors. It was Murray`s first match at Melbourne Park since a five-set defeat by Roberto Bautista Agut in 2019. He skipped the 2018 and 2020 tournaments with injury and also missed the last edition after testing positive for COVID-19 in the leadup. ALSO READ | Aus Open: Rafael Nadal makes stunning start in his quest to win a record 21st Grand Slam "It`s amazing. It`s been a tough three-four years. I`ve put in a lot of work to get back here," Murray said in his on-court interview. "I`ve played on this court many times and the atmosphere is incredible. I`ve always had fantastic support. "This is the one where I thought potentially I`d played my last match on three years ago but amazing to be back winning a five-set battle like that. Can`t ask for anything more." This was the third meeting between the pair with the British 34-year-old, who reached the fourth round at the Australian Open in 2017, triumphing in both previous encounters including last week`s win en route to the final in Sydney. Basilashvili, 29, committed 99 unforced errors, many of which came when the Murray ran from one end of the court to the other to defend doggedly and making his opponent play an extra shot in the rallies. Murray often had to lean on his racquet to catch his breath for a few seconds as the match went into a deciding set but after an exchange of breaks he converted another opportunity to seal the win after almost a four-hour battle. After Basilashvili found the net with his return on his third match-point, Murray let out a huge roar and a "let`s go" as an appreciative crowd at the John Cain Arena showcourt gave him a standing ovation. ALSO READ | Novak Djokovic cannot play French Open without COVID-19 vaccine, says French Sports Ministry "He hits the ball huge from the back of the court," Murray said. "I had to do a lot of running today, lot of defending. "He`s not the sort of guy you want to see next to your name in the draw too often. But obviously a little bit of confidence from the win last week and I thankfully managed to get over the line today." Murray will next meet Japanese qualifier Taro Daniel for a place in the third round at the year`s first major.

Aus Open: Indefatigable Andy Murray wins thriller vs Nikoloz Basilashvili to enter second round

<p>Virat Kohli, on Saturday (January 15), dropped a bomb by stepping down as the Indian Test captain, a day after India's 2-1 series loss to Dean Elgar's South Africa in their ongoing tour of the African nation. Under Kohli, India became one of the most successful Test teams in the modern-era as the 33-year-old led the national side to 40 wins in 68 Tests.</p>

<p>Kohli tweeted saying, "Everything has to come to a halt at some stage and for me as Test captain of India, it’s now. It’s been 7 years of hard work, toil and relentless perseverance every day to take the team in the right direction. I’ve done the job with absolute honesty and left nothing out there. Everything has to come to a halt at some stage and for me as Test Captain of India, it’s now."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="und">🇮🇳 <a href="https://t.co/huBL6zZ7fZ">pic.twitter.com/huBL6zZ7fZ</a></p>
— Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli/status/1482340422987169794?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 15, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-had-no-pressure-from-the-board-selectors-bcci-treasurer-reacts-to-kohli-leaving-test-captaincy-445254"><strong>Virat had no pressure from the board, selectors: BCCI treasurer reacts to Kohli leaving Test captaincy</strong></a></p>

<p>Kohli's resignation as Test captain came as a huge shocker to the cricketing fraternity given how much he loves to lead from the front in whites and the resounding success India has achieved under him.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to a report filed by&nbsp;<em>Hindustan Times,</em>&nbsp;it has been learned that Kohli was offered a farewell Test as captain by the Sourav Ganguly-led Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) official. As per the report, the board official had come up with an offer for Kohli to have a farewell Test as skipper along with a gala in Bengaluru (where the forthcoming home series opener versus Sri Lanka will be held next month) during his telephonic conversation. "One match makes no difference. That’s not how I am,” Kohli is reportedly known to have said in his reply.&nbsp;For the unversed, Kohli's next Test will also be his 100th match in whites, in Bengaluru.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-wants-to-make-himself-unsackable-manjrekar-on-kohlis-shocking-decision-to-resign-as-test-captain-445199"><strong>'He wants to make himself unsackable': Manjrekar on Kohli's shocking decision to resign as Test captain</strong></a></p>

<p>In the last four months, Kohli has freed himself from captaincy duties for Team India. While he announced his decision to resign as T20I captain prior to the World Cup, mid-September, he was removed from ODI captaincy before the SA tour whereas he left the top post in Tests on Saturday. Amid all this, Kohli's relation with the board has also gone down considerably; which could have been a factor in quitting captaincy altogether.</p>


Virat Kohli, on Saturday (January 15), dropped a bomb by stepping down as the Indian Test captain, a day after India's 2-1 series loss to Dean Elgar's South Africa in their ongoing tour of the African nation.

Virat Kohli, on Saturday (January 15), dropped a bomb by stepping down as the Indian Test captain, a day after India's 2-1 series loss to Dean Elgar's South Africa in their ongoing tour of the African nation. Under Kohli, India became one of the most successful Test teams in the modern-era as the 33-year-old led the national side to 40 wins in 68 Tests. Kohli tweeted saying, "Everything has to come to a halt at some stage and for me as Test captain of India, it’s now. It’s been 7 years of hard work, toil and relentless perseverance every day to take the team in the right direction. I’ve done the job with absolute honesty and left nothing out there. Everything has to come to a halt at some stage and for me as Test Captain of India, it’s now." 🇮🇳 pic.twitter.com/huBL6zZ7fZ — Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) January 15, 2022 × ALSO READ | Virat had no pressure from the board, selectors: BCCI treasurer reacts to Kohli leaving Test captaincy Kohli's resignation as Test captain came as a huge shocker to the cricketing fraternity given how much he loves to lead from the front in whites and the resounding success India has achieved under him. According to a report filed by Hindustan Times, it has been learned that Kohli was offered a farewell Test as captain by the Sourav Ganguly-led Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) official. As per the report, the board official had come up with an offer for Kohli to have a farewell Test as skipper along with a gala in Bengaluru (where the forthcoming home series opener versus Sri Lanka will be held next month) during his telephonic conversation. "One match makes no difference. That’s not how I am,” Kohli is reportedly known to have said in his reply. For the unversed, Kohli's next Test will also be his 100th match in whites, in Bengaluru. ALSO READ | 'He wants to make himself unsackable': Manjrekar on Kohli's shocking decision to resign as Test captain In the last four months, Kohli has freed himself from captaincy duties for Team India. While he announced his decision to resign as T20I captain prior to the World Cup, mid-September, he was removed from ODI captaincy before the SA tour whereas he left the top post in Tests on Saturday. Amid all this, Kohli's relation with the board has also gone down considerably; which could have been a factor in quitting captaincy altogether.

'One match makes...': Virat Kohli turned down BCCI's offer to play farewell Test as captain - Report

<p>The IPL 2022 mega auction is less than a month away. During the recently-held IPL General Council Meeting, the BCCI finalised the auction date, i.e. February 12 and 13, as the showpiece event took place in Bengaluru. All eyes will be on the non-retained players, which comprises several marquee players such as KL Rahul, Shreyas Iyer, David Warner, Suresh Raina, Shikhar Dhawan, Ishan Kishan, Kagiso Rabada, Rashid Khan and the likes. Six of them will be picked by the two new IPL franchises -- Lucknow and Ahmedabad -- who have the luxury to choose three players each before the auction proceedings.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The IPL auction has always hogged the limelight, since 2008, as franchises shed a huge chunk of money on players from various countries or of different age bracket. Over the years, many rising talents or established names have earned big during the IPL auctions. Before the IPL 2022 auction kicks off in Bengaluru, here's a look at the most expensive players in each auction:&nbsp;</p>

<p>The list includes some marquee players such as MS Dhoni, Yuvraj Singh, Gautam Gambhir, Ben Stokes, Pat Cummins, Dinesh Karthik, Glenn Maxwell, Chris Morris and some underrated names -- Jaydev Unadkat, Varun Chakravarthy.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ben-stokes-pat-cummins-and-other-top-england-australia-players-in-doubt-over-entering-ipl-mega-auction-445477"><strong>Ben Stokes, Pat Cummins and other top England, Australia players in doubt over entering IPL mega auction</strong></a></p>

<table border="1" cellpadding="1" cellspacing="1" style="width: 500px;">
	<tbody>
		<tr>
			<td><strong>&nbsp; Year</strong></td>
			<td><strong>&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Players &amp; Teams</strong></td>
			<td><strong>&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Price&nbsp;</strong></td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>2008</td>
			<td>MS Dhoni (CSK)</td>
			<td>INR 9.5 crore (95 million)</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>2009</td>
			<td>Kevin Pietersen (RCB), Andrew Flintoff (CSK)</td>
			<td>INR 9.8 crore (98 million)</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>2010</td>
			<td>Shane Bond (KKR), Kieron Pollard (MI)</td>
			<td>INR 4.2 crore (42 million)</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>2011</td>
			<td>Gautam Gambhir (KKR)</td>
			<td>INR 14.9 crore (149 million)</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>2012</td>
			<td>Ravindra Jadeja (CSK)</td>
			<td>INR 12.8 crore (128 million)</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>2013</td>
			<td>Glenn Maxwell (MI)</td>
			<td>INR 6.3 crore (63 million)</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>2014</td>
			<td>Yuvraj Singh (RCB)</td>
			<td>INR 12.5 crore (125 million)</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>2015</td>
			<td>Yuvraj Singh (DC)</td>
			<td>INR 16 crore (160 million)</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>2016</td>
			<td>Shane Watson (RCB)</td>
			<td>INR 9.5 crore (95 million)</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>2017</td>
			<td>Ben Stokes (RPS)</td>
			<td>INR 14.5 crore (145 million)</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>2018</td>
			<td>Ben Stokes (RR)</td>
			<td>INR 12.5 crore (125 million)</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>2019</td>
			<td>Jaydev Unadkat (RR), Varun Chakravarthy (KKR)</td>
			<td>INR 8.4 crore (84 million)</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>2020</td>
			<td>Pat Cummins (KKR)</td>
			<td>INR 15.5 crore (155 million)</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>2021</td>
			<td>Chris Morris (RR)</td>
			<td>INR 16.25 crore (162.5 million)</td>
		</tr>
	</tbody>
</table>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/ipl-2022-which-side-be-the-richest-revealing-purse-of-8-existing-teams-before-mega-auction-433317#punjab-kings---inr-720-million-433214">IPL 2022: Which side be the richest? Revealing purse of 8 existing teams before mega auction</a></strong></p>

<p>Talking about the IPL 2022 edition, the BCCI will once again be under the scanner for hosting the 15th edition smoothly, with the Covid-19 pandemic still not over. As of now, no final decision has been taken regarding the venues for the upcoming season. The Sourav Ganguly-led board will finalise the venues and share the full schedule after monitoring the Covid-19 situation nationwide. If hosting the cash-rich league in India becomes out of the picture, BCCI will look to take the IPL in Sri Lanka, South Africa or the UAE (as per reports).</p>


The IPL 2022 mega auction is less than a month away. During the recently-held IPL General Council Meeting, the BCCI finalised the auction date, i.e. February 12 and 13, as the showpiece event took place in Bengaluru.

The IPL 2022 mega auction is less than a month away. During the recently-held IPL General Council Meeting, the BCCI finalised the auction date, i.e. February 12 and 13, as the showpiece event took place in Bengaluru. All eyes will be on the non-retained players, which comprises several marquee players such as KL Rahul, Shreyas Iyer, David Warner, Suresh Raina, Shikhar Dhawan, Ishan Kishan, Kagiso Rabada, Rashid Khan and the likes. Six of them will be picked by the two new IPL franchises -- Lucknow and Ahmedabad -- who have the luxury to choose three players each before the auction proceedings. The IPL auction has always hogged the limelight, since 2008, as franchises shed a huge chunk of money on players from various countries or of different age bracket. Over the years, many rising talents or established names have earned big during the IPL auctions. Before the IPL 2022 auction kicks off in Bengaluru, here's a look at the most expensive players in each auction: The list includes some marquee players such as MS Dhoni, Yuvraj Singh, Gautam Gambhir, Ben Stokes, Pat Cummins, Dinesh Karthik, Glenn Maxwell, Chris Morris and some underrated names -- Jaydev Unadkat, Varun Chakravarthy. ALSO READ | Ben Stokes, Pat Cummins and other top England, Australia players in doubt over entering IPL mega auction Year Players & Teams Price 2008 MS Dhoni (CSK) INR 9.5 crore (95 million) 2009 Kevin Pietersen (RCB), Andrew Flintoff (CSK) INR 9.8 crore (98 million) 2010 Shane Bond (KKR), Kieron Pollard (MI) INR 4.2 crore (42 million) 2011 Gautam Gambhir (KKR) INR 14.9 crore (149 million) 2012 Ravindra Jadeja (CSK) INR 12.8 crore (128 million) 2013 Glenn Maxwell (MI) INR 6.3 crore (63 million) 2014 Yuvraj Singh (RCB) INR 12.5 crore (125 million) 2015 Yuvraj Singh (DC) INR 16 crore (160 million) 2016 Shane Watson (RCB) INR 9.5 crore (95 million) 2017 Ben Stokes (RPS) INR 14.5 crore (145 million) 2018 Ben Stokes (RR) INR 12.5 crore (125 million) 2019 Jaydev Unadkat (RR), Varun Chakravarthy (KKR) INR 8.4 crore (84 million) 2020 Pat Cummins (KKR) INR 15.5 crore (155 million) 2021 Chris Morris (RR) INR 16.25 crore (162.5 million) ALSO READ | IPL 2022: Which side be the richest? Revealing purse of 8 existing teams before mega auction Talking about the IPL 2022 edition, the BCCI will once again be under the scanner for hosting the 15th edition smoothly, with the Covid-19 pandemic still not over. As of now, no final decision has been taken regarding the venues for the upcoming season. The Sourav Ganguly-led board will finalise the venues and share the full schedule after monitoring the Covid-19 situation nationwide. If hosting the cash-rich league in India becomes out of the picture, BCCI will look to take the IPL in Sri Lanka, South Africa or the UAE (as per reports).

From MS Dhoni, Yuvraj Singh, Ben Stokes to Chris Morris: Most expensive players in IPL auction

<p>Tickets for the Winter Olympics set to begin on Feb. 4 will be distributed to "targeted" groups of people and will not be sold to the general public, the organising committee said on Monday, in the latest setback to the Games inflicted by COVID-19.</p>

<p>Organisers had said in September that there would not be any international spectators at the Games, under COVID-19 prevention policies that have all but shut China`s borders to international travellers.</p>

<p>It cited the "severe and complex" COVID-19 situation and the need to protect the safety of Olympics personnel and spectators in Monday`s announcement.</p>

<p><strong>Read Also |&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/sports/you-are-our-champion-deported-novak-djokovic-welcomed-back-to-serbia-445438">'You are our champion': Deported Novak Djokovic welcomed back to Serbia</a></strong></p>

<p>Local spectators who receive tickets must observe strict COVID-19 prevention measures before, during and after attending Olympic events, the committee said. It did not give further details, or further specify how tickets would be distributed.</p>

<p>China, which has largely managed to curb local COVID-19 infections, is scrambling to prevent the spread of scattered outbreaks of the highly infections Omicron variant just as the busy Lunar New Year travel period begins.</p>

<p>The Olympics, to be held in the Chinese capital and neighbouring Hebei province, will take place in a "closed loop" that will keep athletes and other Games personnel separated from the general Chinese public. Most participants will arrive on special charter planes.</p>

<p>Last month, North America`s National Hockey League said its players would not participate in the Olympic tournament in Beijing due to COVID-19 disruptions of the league schedule.</p>


Tickets for the Winter Olympics set to begin on Feb. 4 will be distributed to "targeted" groups of people and will not be sold to the general public, the organising committee said on Monday, in the latest setback to the Games inflicted by COVID-19.

Tickets for the Winter Olympics set to begin on Feb. 4 will be distributed to "targeted" groups of people and will not be sold to the general public, the organising committee said on Monday, in the latest setback to the Games inflicted by COVID-19. Organisers had said in September that there would not be any international spectators at the Games, under COVID-19 prevention policies that have all but shut China`s borders to international travellers. It cited the "severe and complex" COVID-19 situation and the need to protect the safety of Olympics personnel and spectators in Monday`s announcement. Read Also | 'You are our champion': Deported Novak Djokovic welcomed back to Serbia Local spectators who receive tickets must observe strict COVID-19 prevention measures before, during and after attending Olympic events, the committee said. It did not give further details, or further specify how tickets would be distributed. China, which has largely managed to curb local COVID-19 infections, is scrambling to prevent the spread of scattered outbreaks of the highly infections Omicron variant just as the busy Lunar New Year travel period begins. The Olympics, to be held in the Chinese capital and neighbouring Hebei province, will take place in a "closed loop" that will keep athletes and other Games personnel separated from the general Chinese public. Most participants will arrive on special charter planes. Last month, North America`s National Hockey League said its players would not participate in the Olympic tournament in Beijing due to COVID-19 disruptions of the league schedule.

COVID-19 prohibits public sale of Beijing Olympics tickets

<p>A lot has changed in Indian cricket in the past few months. Virat Kohli stepped down as the Test captain on Saturday (January 15), after resigning from the post in T20Is -- announcing his decision prior to the World Cup -- and being sacked as the ODI skipper.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the forthcoming India-South Africa ODIs, in the African nation, KL Rahul will lead the Men in Blue with Kohli in the line-up, sans limited-overs skipper Rohit Sharma (out due to hamstring injury). On the other hand, the series will also see Jasprit Bumrah don the vice-captain's hat. Earlier in the SA tour, Bumrah had filled in as vice-captain for the second and penultimate Test, at The Wanderers, Johannesburg, with regular captain Kohli being injured.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Ahead of the three ODIs, Bumrah opened up on the prospect of leading Team India in the future, given the Test captaincy spot is now vacant following Kohli's resignation.</p>

<p>Speaking in a pre-match&nbsp;press conference ahead of the the three-match ODI series opener, at Paarl, the 28-year-old Bumrah opined that he can&nbsp;captain the side if given an opportunity. However, the speedster's focus is always to look for ways where he can contribute and do his work as a bowler.</p>

<p>"For me, I am ready to contribute in whatever position and way I can. If given an opportunity to lead India, you will think about it. It is not something that I like to chase, I like to do my work, however, I can do the job. Me having a post or not does not really matter. That has always been my process and what I look to do. If given an opportunity, there is a no bigger honour than this but yeah, I try to focus on how I can contribute," the pacer&nbsp;said.</p>

<p>He further stressed, "For me, the role does not change at all. I have to do my job and I will be helping KL Rahul as much as I can whenever he needs assistance. Even when I am not the vice-captain, I try to help the younger guys and I have a lot of discussions with them regarding having a particular field."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Bumrah concluded by saying, "You always want the responsibility. If there is no responsibility or pressure, you would not enjoy the game. I try to manage the responsibility and contribute to the side's cause. I am a keen learner, when I came into the team, I always asked questions. I try to help out the youngsters and eradicate their doubts. Sometimes I also end up learning from them."</p>

<p>The national selectors will have a tough task to name the next Test captain in the coming few weeks. India's next Test series is at home, versus Sri Lanka. For now, they are gearing up for the three ODIs versus Temba Bavuma &amp; Co. after losing the Tests 2-1.</p>


A lot has changed in Indian cricket in the past few months. Virat Kohli stepped down as the Test captain on Saturday (January 15), after resigning from the post in T20Is -- announcing his decision prior to the World Cup -- and being sacked as the ODI skipper.

A lot has changed in Indian cricket in the past few months. Virat Kohli stepped down as the Test captain on Saturday (January 15), after resigning from the post in T20Is -- announcing his decision prior to the World Cup -- and being sacked as the ODI skipper. In the forthcoming India-South Africa ODIs, in the African nation, KL Rahul will lead the Men in Blue with Kohli in the line-up, sans limited-overs skipper Rohit Sharma (out due to hamstring injury). On the other hand, the series will also see Jasprit Bumrah don the vice-captain's hat. Earlier in the SA tour, Bumrah had filled in as vice-captain for the second and penultimate Test, at The Wanderers, Johannesburg, with regular captain Kohli being injured. ALSO READ | Ahead of the three ODIs, Bumrah opened up on the prospect of leading Team India in the future, given the Test captaincy spot is now vacant following Kohli's resignation. Speaking in a pre-match press conference ahead of the the three-match ODI series opener, at Paarl, the 28-year-old Bumrah opined that he can captain the side if given an opportunity. However, the speedster's focus is always to look for ways where he can contribute and do his work as a bowler. "For me, I am ready to contribute in whatever position and way I can. If given an opportunity to lead India, you will think about it. It is not something that I like to chase, I like to do my work, however, I can do the job. Me having a post or not does not really matter. That has always been my process and what I look to do. If given an opportunity, there is a no bigger honour than this but yeah, I try to focus on how I can contribute," the pacer said. He further stressed, "For me, the role does not change at all. I have to do my job and I will be helping KL Rahul as much as I can whenever he needs assistance. Even when I am not the vice-captain, I try to help the younger guys and I have a lot of discussions with them regarding having a particular field." ALSO READ | Bumrah concluded by saying, "You always want the responsibility. If there is no responsibility or pressure, you would not enjoy the game. I try to manage the responsibility and contribute to the side's cause. I am a keen learner, when I came into the team, I always asked questions. I try to help out the youngsters and eradicate their doubts. Sometimes I also end up learning from them." The national selectors will have a tough task to name the next Test captain in the coming few weeks. India's next Test series is at home, versus Sri Lanka. For now, they are gearing up for the three ODIs versus Temba Bavuma & Co. after losing the Tests 2-1.

'If given an opportunity to lead India.....' - Jasprit Bumrah opines on prospect of leading Team India

<p>Novak Djokovic arrived home in Serbia on Monday after Australia deported the world men`s tennis No. 1 for not having a COVID-19 vaccine, a stance jeopardising his quest for a record 21st Grand Slam title.</p>

<p>"You are our champion, Novak!" chanted supporters, some waving national flags, outside Belgrade airport.</p>

<p>The 34-year-old had won nine past Australia Opens and is level with Rafa Nadal&nbsp;and Roger Federer on 20 titles.</p>

<p>But instead of beginning his quest for another Melbourne Park major, he took planes to Dubai then Belgrade after being twice detained in a hotel with asylum-seekers then unceremoniously booted out by Australian immigration.</p>

<p>"100% the Australian Open has lost its value. Whoever wins it now, doesn`t really count. Because Djokovic is the number one," said Alek Drakoo, a member of the local Serbian community, who had planned to watch him play in Melbourne.</p>

<p>The government`s decision was in tune with Australian public opinion because of Djokovic`s stance on inoculation, but authorities have been criticised for not resolving the issue before he arrived.</p>

<p><strong>Read Also |&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/sports/can-novak-djokovic-return-to-take-part-in-australian-open-next-year-pm-scott-morrison-has-answer-445385">Can Novak Djokovic return to take part in Australian Open next year? PM Scott Morrison has answer</a></strong></p>

<p>"I am uncomfortable that the focus of the past weeks has been on me and I hope that we can all now focus on the game and the tournament I love," Djokovic, 34, said in a statement, expressing disappointment but respect for a court decision against him.</p>

<p><strong>BACK TO OZ?</strong></p>

<p>Under Australian law, he cannot be granted another visa for three years unless the immigration minister accepts there are compelling or compassionate reasons.</p>

<p>But Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison hinted there may be a way to allow him in next year. "There is the opportunity for (a person) to return in the right circumstances, and that will be considered at the time," he told 2GB radio.</p>

<p>France said Djokovic would be barred from playing the French Open in May and June as things stand now because of a new vaccine pass law.</p>

<p>"This will apply to everyone who is a spectator or a professional sportsperson," the ministry said in a statement, adding, however, that the pandemic situation could change by then. "We`ll see, but clearly there`s no exemption."</p>

<p>Australia`s Federal Court ruling to uphold the cancellation of Djokovic`s visa - originally granted on a medical exemption as he recently had COVID-19 - dismayed his family and supporters, who portray him as a persecuted underdog.</p>

<p>Djokovic was first detained by immigration authorities on Jan. 6, ordered released by a court on Jan. 10 and then detained again on Saturday before Sunday`s court hearing.</p>

<p>He wore a mask and took selfies with fans as he arrived in Dubai from Melbourne, before taking a terminal buggy to the departure gate for a six-hour flight to Belgrade.</p>

<p>Serbian Prime Minister Ana Brnabic has called the treatment of a national hero "scandalous".<br />
Australian Immigration Minister Alex Hawke had said Djokovic could be a threat to public order because his presence would encourage anti-vaccination sentiment.</p>

<p><strong>Read Also |&nbsp;</strong><a href="http://13.235.153.162/sports/covid-vaccination-required-for-athletes-competing-in-france-says-government-source-445359"><strong>Covid vaccination required for athletes competing in France, says government source</strong></a></p>

<p>His case has stoked a passionate global debate over the rights to decline vaccination as authorities around the world push that as the main route out of the two-year-old pandemic.</p>

<p><strong>`YOU HAVE TO COMPLY`</strong></p>

<p>Djokovic`s exemption angered many Australians, who have endured some of the world`s toughest lockdowns and have an adult vaccination rate of more than 90%. Some called him arrogant, ill-informed and uncaring about health risks.</p>

<p>The controversy became a political touchstone for Morrison who faces an election by May, amid wrangling over responsibility between his centre-right federal coalition government and the centre-left Victoria state government.</p>

<p>Morrison defended his handling of the situation and differentiated Djokovic`s case from vaccine sceptics within his own government. "If you’re someone coming from overseas, and there are conditions for you to enter this country, then you have to comply with them," he said.</p>

<p>Spain`s Nadal said the tournament would not be the same without his great rival.<br />
"If Novak Djokovic is playing here, it`s better for everybody, no doubt about that," he told reporters after trouncing American Marcos Giron 6-1 6-4 6-2 to sail into the second round.</p>


Novak Djokovic arrived home in Serbia on Monday after Australia deported the world men`s tennis No. 1 for not having a COVID-19 vaccine, a stance jeopardising his quest for a record 21st Grand Slam title.

Novak Djokovic arrived home in Serbia on Monday after Australia deported the world men`s tennis No. 1 for not having a COVID-19 vaccine, a stance jeopardising his quest for a record 21st Grand Slam title. "You are our champion, Novak!" chanted supporters, some waving national flags, outside Belgrade airport. The 34-year-old had won nine past Australia Opens and is level with Rafa Nadal and Roger Federer on 20 titles. But instead of beginning his quest for another Melbourne Park major, he took planes to Dubai then Belgrade after being twice detained in a hotel with asylum-seekers then unceremoniously booted out by Australian immigration. "100% the Australian Open has lost its value. Whoever wins it now, doesn`t really count. Because Djokovic is the number one," said Alek Drakoo, a member of the local Serbian community, who had planned to watch him play in Melbourne. The government`s decision was in tune with Australian public opinion because of Djokovic`s stance on inoculation, but authorities have been criticised for not resolving the issue before he arrived. Read Also | Can Novak Djokovic return to take part in Australian Open next year? PM Scott Morrison has answer "I am uncomfortable that the focus of the past weeks has been on me and I hope that we can all now focus on the game and the tournament I love," Djokovic, 34, said in a statement, expressing disappointment but respect for a court decision against him. BACK TO OZ? Under Australian law, he cannot be granted another visa for three years unless the immigration minister accepts there are compelling or compassionate reasons. But Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison hinted there may be a way to allow him in next year. "There is the opportunity for (a person) to return in the right circumstances, and that will be considered at the time," he told 2GB radio. France said Djokovic would be barred from playing the French Open in May and June as things stand now because of a new vaccine pass law. "This will apply to everyone who is a spectator or a professional sportsperson," the ministry said in a statement, adding, however, that the pandemic situation could change by then. "We`ll see, but clearly there`s no exemption." Australia`s Federal Court ruling to uphold the cancellation of Djokovic`s visa - originally granted on a medical exemption as he recently had COVID-19 - dismayed his family and supporters, who portray him as a persecuted underdog. Djokovic was first detained by immigration authorities on Jan. 6, ordered released by a court on Jan. 10 and then detained again on Saturday before Sunday`s court hearing. He wore a mask and took selfies with fans as he arrived in Dubai from Melbourne, before taking a terminal buggy to the departure gate for a six-hour flight to Belgrade. Serbian Prime Minister Ana Brnabic has called the treatment of a national hero "scandalous". Australian Immigration Minister Alex Hawke had said Djokovic could be a threat to public order because his presence would encourage anti-vaccination sentiment. Read Also | Covid vaccination required for athletes competing in France, says government source His case has stoked a passionate global debate over the rights to decline vaccination as authorities around the world push that as the main route out of the two-year-old pandemic. `YOU HAVE TO COMPLY` Djokovic`s exemption angered many Australians, who have endured some of the world`s toughest lockdowns and have an adult vaccination rate of more than 90%. Some called him arrogant, ill-informed and uncaring about health risks. The controversy became a political touchstone for Morrison who faces an election by May, amid wrangling over responsibility between his centre-right federal coalition government and the centre-left Victoria state government. Morrison defended his handling of the situation and differentiated Djokovic`s case from vaccine sceptics within his own government. "If you’re someone coming from overseas, and there are conditions for you to enter this country, then you have to comply with them," he said. Spain`s Nadal said the tournament would not be the same without his great rival. "If Novak Djokovic is playing here, it`s better for everybody, no doubt about that," he told reporters after trouncing American Marcos Giron 6-1 6-4 6-2 to sail into the second round.

'You are our champion': Deported Novak Djokovic welcomed back to Serbia

<p>Former Indian opener-turned-social media sensation Wasim Jaffer has lauded Virat Kohli after the latter dropped a bomb recently by stepping down as the Test captain. Kohli took to his official Twitter handle to share the news with one and all, a day after India's 2-1 series loss to Dean Elgar-led South Africa.</p>

<p>Kohli tweeted saying, "Everything has to come to a halt at some stage and for me as Test captain of India, it’s now. It’s been 7 years of hard work, toil and relentless perseverance every day to take the team in the right direction. I’ve done the job with absolute honesty and left nothing out there. Everything has to come to a halt at some stage and for me as Test Captain of India, it’s now."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="und">🇮🇳 <a href="https://t.co/huBL6zZ7fZ">pic.twitter.com/huBL6zZ7fZ</a></p>
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<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-might-be-feeling-suffocated-former-indian-wicketkeeper-reacts-to-virat-kohli-quitting-as-test-captain-445423"><strong>He might be feeling suffocated: Former Indian wicketkeeper reacts to Virat Kohli quitting as Test captain</strong></a></p>

<p>Speaking on his YouTube channel, Jaffer opened up on Kohli's decision, hailed him for being an exceptional leader in whites and said, "The way he has led India in all three formats has been commendable. Even though we keep saying that he hasn't won a ICC trophy, other than that he has a great record as a leader, whether it's at home where he hasn't lost any series as a captain, he lost only two Test matches. Away from home he has got tremendous success.</p>

<p>“As a white-ball captain, he won T20 trophies in New Zealand, South Africa and Australia. Beating Australia in Australia was the icing on the cake for him as a leader. I think no sub-continent team has gone to Australia and beaten Australia. It was probably the highest point as a captain,” Jaffer added.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/one-match-makes-virat-kohli-turned-down-bccis-offer-to-play-farewell-test-as-captain-report-445316"><strong>'One match makes...': Virat Kohli turned down BCCI's offer to play farewell Test as captain - Report</strong></a></p>

<p>Jaffer further went onto mention the one quality brought forward by Kohli during his tenure as the Test captain, from 2014-2021. "The kind of culture he has brought to the Indian team and the fast-bowling firepower that India has become under him is tremendous, something which India never had.</p>

<p>"Now we've got such a high quality bowling attack and I think India has definitely got one of the best bowling attacks going around whether it's seaming conditions or spinning conditions," the 43-year old further said.</p>

<p>Kohli took over from MS Dhoni as the Test captain when the national side occupied the seventh position in ICC Test Rankings. At the time of his resignation, India are the No. 1 side and ended at the top spot for five consecutive years during annual updates of ICC rankings. Under Kohli, India won 40 Tests in 68 matches, winning three games in England, two series on the trot in Australia (one under Ajinkya Rahane), two Tests in South Africa.</p>

<p>Jaffer also suggested that Hitman Rohit should now take over from Kohli whereas named three candidates who can be groomed under him. "Rohit Sharma I feel will be the obvious choice right now for him to lead in all three formats but selectors in a year or two years time look for replacement. Or look for somebody to groom and the obvious name that comes to mind is Rishabh Pant, KL Rahul. And I would also take the name of Shreyas Iyer because I think these three guys have the potential to be Indian captain for the future,” he said.</p>


Former Indian opener-turned-social media sensation Wasim Jaffer has lauded Virat Kohli after the latter dropped a bomb recently by stepping down as the Test captain.

Former Indian opener-turned-social media sensation Wasim Jaffer has lauded Virat Kohli after the latter dropped a bomb recently by stepping down as the Test captain. Kohli took to his official Twitter handle to share the news with one and all, a day after India's 2-1 series loss to Dean Elgar-led South Africa. Kohli tweeted saying, "Everything has to come to a halt at some stage and for me as Test captain of India, it’s now. It’s been 7 years of hard work, toil and relentless perseverance every day to take the team in the right direction. I’ve done the job with absolute honesty and left nothing out there. Everything has to come to a halt at some stage and for me as Test Captain of India, it’s now." 🇮🇳 pic.twitter.com/huBL6zZ7fZ — Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) January 15, 2022 × ALSO READ | He might be feeling suffocated: Former Indian wicketkeeper reacts to Virat Kohli quitting as Test captain Speaking on his YouTube channel, Jaffer opened up on Kohli's decision, hailed him for being an exceptional leader in whites and said, "The way he has led India in all three formats has been commendable. Even though we keep saying that he hasn't won a ICC trophy, other than that he has a great record as a leader, whether it's at home where he hasn't lost any series as a captain, he lost only two Test matches. Away from home he has got tremendous success. “As a white-ball captain, he won T20 trophies in New Zealand, South Africa and Australia. Beating Australia in Australia was the icing on the cake for him as a leader. I think no sub-continent team has gone to Australia and beaten Australia. It was probably the highest point as a captain,” Jaffer added. ALSO READ | 'One match makes...': Virat Kohli turned down BCCI's offer to play farewell Test as captain - Report Jaffer further went onto mention the one quality brought forward by Kohli during his tenure as the Test captain, from 2014-2021. "The kind of culture he has brought to the Indian team and the fast-bowling firepower that India has become under him is tremendous, something which India never had. "Now we've got such a high quality bowling attack and I think India has definitely got one of the best bowling attacks going around whether it's seaming conditions or spinning conditions," the 43-year old further said. Kohli took over from MS Dhoni as the Test captain when the national side occupied the seventh position in ICC Test Rankings. At the time of his resignation, India are the No. 1 side and ended at the top spot for five consecutive years during annual updates of ICC rankings. Under Kohli, India won 40 Tests in 68 matches, winning three games in England, two series on the trot in Australia (one under Ajinkya Rahane), two Tests in South Africa. Jaffer also suggested that Hitman Rohit should now take over from Kohli whereas named three candidates who can be groomed under him. "Rohit Sharma I feel will be the obvious choice right now for him to lead in all three formats but selectors in a year or two years time look for replacement. Or look for somebody to groom and the obvious name that comes to mind is Rishabh Pant, KL Rahul. And I would also take the name of Shreyas Iyer because I think these three guys have the potential to be Indian captain for the future,” he said.

Jaffer mentions quality Kohli developed 'which India never had', suggests ideal candidates as his successor

<p>On Saturday (January 15), Virat Kohli dropped a bomb by announcing his decision to step aside as the Test captain of the Indian cricket team. Kohli's decision came following the three-match Test series loss to South Africa, in the rainbow nation, on Friday (January 14).</p>

<p>Kohli, thus, signed off as India's most successful Test captain -- leading the national side in 68 Tests, winning 40 of them. In mid-September 2021, the 33-year-old had announced that the T20 World Cup will be his last assignment as captain of the shortest format. In December, BCCI sacked him as the ODI captain before giving&nbsp;up the Test captaincy as well.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-was-not-worried-about-sanjay-manjrekar-lauds-rishabh-pant-for-unselfish-ton-vs-sa-in-3rd-test-445392">'He was not worried about....': Sanjay Manjrekar lauds Rishabh Pant for 'unselfish' ton vs SA in 3rd Test</a></strong></p>

<p>Talking on<em>&nbsp;India News</em>, former Indian wicketkeeper and national selector Saba Karim opined on Kohli's Test captaincy resignation and said, "It is very difficult to say what is the reason behind this. The picture we are getting to see in the last four-five months, it means the pressure was building on him. He might have been feeling suffocated because of which he might have ended his relationship with captaincy."</p>

<p>"Virat Kohli is a person who doesn't take a step back from fighting. I agree India lost the Test series in South Africa, where they were expected to win, but he is always ready for such challenges. It is the first time he has taken such a decision on his own," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/captaincy-is-not-anyones-birthright-gambhir-hopes-virat-kohli-can-be-at-his-dominant-best-in-sa-odis-445355"><strong>Captaincy is not anyone's birthright: Gambhir hopes Virat Kohli can be at his dominant best in SA ODIs</strong></a></p>

<p>Karim further expressed his concern with so many changes happening rapidly in Indian cricket. In this regard, he stated, "I didn't think so many changes will happen so soon. The first setback was when Kohli himself decided that he will not do the T20 captaincy. We had spoken about the timing that time as well that the World Cup was about to happen and the team had been selected, for Kohli to take such a decision was extremely astonishing."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The selectors then decided that Kohli will not remain the captain in ODI cricket as well. So too many changes have happened too quickly. The first change was initiated by Kohli himself but after that, the selectors have had a role in the change and in the end, again this personal decision from Kohli."&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Indian cricket loyalists would be hoping for King Kohli to break his international century-drought at his earliest given he is now free from captaincy duties and can play freely. He will be seen in action in the forthcoming three ODIs versus Temba Bavuma-led Proteas, where the Men in Blue will be led by KL Rahul amid limited-overs captain Rohit Sharma's absence (due to hamstring injury).</p>

<p>The ODIs will commence on January 19 at Paarl.</p>


On Saturday (January 15), Virat Kohli dropped a bomb by announcing his decision to step aside as the Test captain of the Indian cricket team. Kohli's decision came following the three-match Test series loss to South Africa, in the rainbow nation, on Friday (January 14).

On Saturday (January 15), Virat Kohli dropped a bomb by announcing his decision to step aside as the Test captain of the Indian cricket team. Kohli's decision came following the three-match Test series loss to South Africa, in the rainbow nation, on Friday (January 14). Kohli, thus, signed off as India's most successful Test captain -- leading the national side in 68 Tests, winning 40 of them. In mid-September 2021, the 33-year-old had announced that the T20 World Cup will be his last assignment as captain of the shortest format. In December, BCCI sacked him as the ODI captain before giving up the Test captaincy as well. ALSO READ | 'He was not worried about....': Sanjay Manjrekar lauds Rishabh Pant for 'unselfish' ton vs SA in 3rd Test Talking on India News, former Indian wicketkeeper and national selector Saba Karim opined on Kohli's Test captaincy resignation and said, "It is very difficult to say what is the reason behind this. The picture we are getting to see in the last four-five months, it means the pressure was building on him. He might have been feeling suffocated because of which he might have ended his relationship with captaincy." "Virat Kohli is a person who doesn't take a step back from fighting. I agree India lost the Test series in South Africa, where they were expected to win, but he is always ready for such challenges. It is the first time he has taken such a decision on his own," he added. ALSO READ | Captaincy is not anyone's birthright: Gambhir hopes Virat Kohli can be at his dominant best in SA ODIs Karim further expressed his concern with so many changes happening rapidly in Indian cricket. In this regard, he stated, "I didn't think so many changes will happen so soon. The first setback was when Kohli himself decided that he will not do the T20 captaincy. We had spoken about the timing that time as well that the World Cup was about to happen and the team had been selected, for Kohli to take such a decision was extremely astonishing." "The selectors then decided that Kohli will not remain the captain in ODI cricket as well. So too many changes have happened too quickly. The first change was initiated by Kohli himself but after that, the selectors have had a role in the change and in the end, again this personal decision from Kohli." The Indian cricket loyalists would be hoping for King Kohli to break his international century-drought at his earliest given he is now free from captaincy duties and can play freely. He will be seen in action in the forthcoming three ODIs versus Temba Bavuma-led Proteas, where the Men in Blue will be led by KL Rahul amid limited-overs captain Rohit Sharma's absence (due to hamstring injury). The ODIs will commence on January 19 at Paarl.

He might be feeling suffocated: Former Indian wicketkeeper reacts to Virat Kohli quitting as Test captain

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