Ten days after announcing retirement, Sri Lanka batter Bhanuka Rajapaksa on Thursday withdrew his decision, saying he wants to play again for the nation. 
 
Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) confirmed that left-handed batter Rajapaksa has withdrawn his retirement. "Pursuant to a meeting with Namal Rajapaksa, Minister of Youth and Sports and after consulting with the National Selectors, Bhanuka Rajapaksa has notified SLC that he wishes to withdraw his resignation which he tendered to SLC on 3rd Jan. 2022, with immediate effect," the board said in an official statement. 
 
"In his letter to SLC withdrawing his resignation, he further states that he wishes to represent his country in the game he loves for the years to come," added the statement.

Read Also |&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/sports/watch-virat-kohli-inspires-indian-dugout-to-relentlessly-cheer-for-pacers-on-day-2-of-3rd-test-444404">WATCH: Virat Kohli inspires Indian dugout to relentlessly cheer for pacers on Day 2 of 3rd Test</a> 
 
Many Sri Lanka players including Lasith Malinga had urged him to reconsider the retirement decision. 
 
Rajapaksa made his T20I debut on October 5, 2019, in the tour of Pakistan. His ODI career lasted less than six months as he had made his debut in July 2021. 
 
The left-handed batsman has played five ODIs and 18 T20Is for Sri Lanka. He has scored 89 and 320 runs at an average of 17.80 and 26.66 respectively.

Read Also |<a href="http://13.235.153.162/sports/ind-vs-sa-gavaskar-shares-how-ravi-shastri-inspired-speedster-md-shamis-revival-in-test-cricket-in-2018-444390">&nbsp;Ind vs SA: Gavaskar shares how Ravi Shastri inspired speedster Md Shami's revival in Test cricket in 2018</a> 
 
"I have very carefully considered my position as a player, husband and am taking this decision looking forward to fatherhood and associated familial obligations," Rajapaksa had written in his resignation letter. 
 
Notably, Rajapaksa got into trouble for criticising selection policies in an interview after being left out for fitness concerns and was handed a suspended one-year ban. He returned to feature in last year`s T20 World Cup, where he scored a match-winning half-century against Bangladesh in the Super 12 stage.

Ten days after announcing retirement, Sri Lanka batter Bhanuka Rajapaksa on Thursday withdrew his decision, saying he wants to play again for the nation. Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) confirmed that left-handed batter Rajapaksa has withdrawn his retirement.

Ten days after announcing retirement, Sri Lanka batter Bhanuka Rajapaksa on Thursday withdrew his decision, saying he wants to play again for the nation. Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) confirmed that left-handed batter Rajapaksa has withdrawn his retirement. "Pursuant to a meeting with Namal Rajapaksa, Minister of Youth and Sports and after consulting with the National Selectors, Bhanuka Rajapaksa has notified SLC that he wishes to withdraw his resignation which he tendered to SLC on 3rd Jan. 2022, with immediate effect," the board said in an official statement. "In his letter to SLC withdrawing his resignation, he further states that he wishes to represent his country in the game he loves for the years to come," added the statement. Read Also | WATCH: Virat Kohli inspires Indian dugout to relentlessly cheer for pacers on Day 2 of 3rd Test Many Sri Lanka players including Lasith Malinga had urged him to reconsider the retirement decision. Rajapaksa made his T20I debut on October 5, 2019, in the tour of Pakistan. His ODI career lasted less than six months as he had made his debut in July 2021. The left-handed batsman has played five ODIs and 18 T20Is for Sri Lanka. He has scored 89 and 320 runs at an average of 17.80 and 26.66 respectively. Read Also | Ind vs SA: Gavaskar shares how Ravi Shastri inspired speedster Md Shami's revival in Test cricket in 2018 "I have very carefully considered my position as a player, husband and am taking this decision looking forward to fatherhood and associated familial obligations," Rajapaksa had written in his resignation letter. Notably, Rajapaksa got into trouble for criticising selection policies in an interview after being left out for fitness concerns and was handed a suspended one-year ban. He returned to feature in last year`s T20 World Cup, where he scored a match-winning half-century against Bangladesh in the Super 12 stage.

Bhanuka Rajapaksa withdraws from retirement, wants to play for Sri Lanka again

Malvika Bansod became only the second Indian to beat former World No. 1 Saina Nehwal since 2017 in any international tournament while Ashmita Chaliha continued her strong run by beating France`s Yaelle Hoyaux to reach the quarter-finals of the India Open 2022, which is part of the BWF World Tour tournament series, at the KD Jadhav stadium on Thursday.

Bansod defeated Nehwal 21-17, 21-9 in 34 minutes while Chaliha got the better of Hoyaux 21-17, 21-14. Also advancing to the Round of 8 were top seed PV Sindhu and Aakarshi Kashyap.Sindhu defeated Ira Sharma 21-10, 21-10 while Kashyap beat Keyura Mopati with an identical scoreline.

Prior to today`s match, Nehwal`s only loss against an Indian opponent at the India Open was in the quarter final against PV Sindhu in 2017. On the domestic circuit any Indian to beat her was in 2006 by Aparna Popat in Bangalore Nationals, fifteen years ago.

And even though Nehwal hadn`t been at her physical best and is still recovering from a serious knee-injury in this tournament, Bansod`s task was far from easy as the experienced former champion was willing to dig in and fight for every point.

Read Also |<a href="http://13.235.153.162/sports/pv-sindhu-thrashes-ira-sharma-enters-next-round-of-indian-open-444352">&nbsp;PV Sindhu thrashes Ira Sharma, enters next round of Indian Open</a>

Bansod started by playing more drops to counter Nehwal`s ability to hit down the line smashes and that allowed her to open up an 11-6 lead in the opening game.Under pressure from Bansod, she then started pushing herself to lift better from the forehand corner and pushing her opponent to the back court.

That allowed her to close the gap at 16-18 before two consecutive unforced errors on smashes allowed Bansod to pocket the opening game. The world No. 111, who lists reading anything from a pamphlet to dictionary when free as her hobby, also read Nehwal`s game plan of pushing her to the backcourt rather well and kept on moving her opponent to all four corners and tested her overall fitness.

Many a times, Nehwal was slow to react to Bansod`s flat tosses and was never in the fight in the second game. "I was playing her for the first time and was not thinking of winning or losing. My game plan was to just keep the shuttle in play and keep moving her," said Bansod after the match.

The 20-year-old, who had been following Nehwal`s career since she first saw her posters during a state level tournament nine years ago, said she made it a point to not see her senior compatriot`s face during the entire match as she was afraid of losing focus.

Read Also |&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/sports/indian-open-2022-kidambi-srikanth-among-7-indians-to-test-positive-for-covid-19-infection-444348">Indian Open 2022: Kidambi Srikanth among 7 Indians to test positive for Covid-19 infection</a>

Bansod, playing in her first Yonex-Sunrise India Open, will now face Kashyap in what will be a repeat of last month`s All India senior ranking tournament final in Hyderabad. While Bansod registered the biggest victory of her career on Thursday, a calm and composed Chaliha proved quite strong for Hoyaux.

The French woman was first to get off the blocks and took a 15-11 lead before the Indian turned the tables against the fellow left-hander. Chaliha won nine straight points to reach game point and converted the second one. The Guwahati girl was in total control in the second game as she raced to an easy win.

She will now face Sindhu in the Round of 8 and though she knows she is going to be a rank-outsider against the former world champion, the 22-year-old wants to just go out and enjoy herself on the court. In the day`s other matches, men`s singles world champion Loh Kean Yew defeated Joo Ven Soong 21-12, 21-12 to reach the quarterfinals, where he was also joined by Malaysia`s NG Tze Yong.

In the other women`s singles pre-quarterfinals, third seed Jia Min Yeo of Singapore got the better of Anupama Upadhaya 13-21, 21-17, 21-12 while USA`s Lauren Lam defeated Tanya Hemanth 21-18, 21-11.

Lakshya sen also moved to the quarter-finals after defeating Felix Burestedt of Sweden 21-12, 21-15. He will face HS Prannoy tomorrow. Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty defeated Shyam Prasad and S Sunjith 21-9, 21-18.

Malvika Bansod became only the second Indian to beat former World No. 1 Saina Nehwal since 2017 in any international tournament while Ashmita Chaliha continued her strong run by beating France`s Yaelle Hoyaux to reach the quarter-finals of the India Open 2022, which is part of the BWF World Tour tournament series, at the KD Jadhav stadium on Thursday.

Malvika Bansod became only the second Indian to beat former World No. 1 Saina Nehwal since 2017 in any international tournament while Ashmita Chaliha continued her strong run by beating France`s Yaelle Hoyaux to reach the quarter-finals of the India Open 2022, which is part of the BWF World Tour tournament series, at the KD Jadhav stadium on Thursday. Bansod defeated Nehwal 21-17, 21-9 in 34 minutes while Chaliha got the better of Hoyaux 21-17, 21-14. Also advancing to the Round of 8 were top seed PV Sindhu and Aakarshi Kashyap.Sindhu defeated Ira Sharma 21-10, 21-10 while Kashyap beat Keyura Mopati with an identical scoreline. Prior to today`s match, Nehwal`s only loss against an Indian opponent at the India Open was in the quarter final against PV Sindhu in 2017. On the domestic circuit any Indian to beat her was in 2006 by Aparna Popat in Bangalore Nationals, fifteen years ago. And even though Nehwal hadn`t been at her physical best and is still recovering from a serious knee-injury in this tournament, Bansod`s task was far from easy as the experienced former champion was willing to dig in and fight for every point. Read Also | PV Sindhu thrashes Ira Sharma, enters next round of Indian Open Bansod started by playing more drops to counter Nehwal`s ability to hit down the line smashes and that allowed her to open up an 11-6 lead in the opening game.Under pressure from Bansod, she then started pushing herself to lift better from the forehand corner and pushing her opponent to the back court. That allowed her to close the gap at 16-18 before two consecutive unforced errors on smashes allowed Bansod to pocket the opening game. The world No. 111, who lists reading anything from a pamphlet to dictionary when free as her hobby, also read Nehwal`s game plan of pushing her to the backcourt rather well and kept on moving her opponent to all four corners and tested her overall fitness. Many a times, Nehwal was slow to react to Bansod`s flat tosses and was never in the fight in the second game. "I was playing her for the first time and was not thinking of winning or losing. My game plan was to just keep the shuttle in play and keep moving her," said Bansod after the match. The 20-year-old, who had been following Nehwal`s career since she first saw her posters during a state level tournament nine years ago, said she made it a point to not see her senior compatriot`s face during the entire match as she was afraid of losing focus. Read Also | Indian Open 2022: Kidambi Srikanth among 7 Indians to test positive for Covid-19 infection Bansod, playing in her first Yonex-Sunrise India Open, will now face Kashyap in what will be a repeat of last month`s All India senior ranking tournament final in Hyderabad. While Bansod registered the biggest victory of her career on Thursday, a calm and composed Chaliha proved quite strong for Hoyaux. The French woman was first to get off the blocks and took a 15-11 lead before the Indian turned the tables against the fellow left-hander. Chaliha won nine straight points to reach game point and converted the second one. The Guwahati girl was in total control in the second game as she raced to an easy win. She will now face Sindhu in the Round of 8 and though she knows she is going to be a rank-outsider against the former world champion, the 22-year-old wants to just go out and enjoy herself on the court. In the day`s other matches, men`s singles world champion Loh Kean Yew defeated Joo Ven Soong 21-12, 21-12 to reach the quarterfinals, where he was also joined by Malaysia`s NG Tze Yong. In the other women`s singles pre-quarterfinals, third seed Jia Min Yeo of Singapore got the better of Anupama Upadhaya 13-21, 21-17, 21-12 while USA`s Lauren Lam defeated Tanya Hemanth 21-18, 21-11. Lakshya sen also moved to the quarter-finals after defeating Felix Burestedt of Sweden 21-12, 21-15. He will face HS Prannoy tomorrow. Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty defeated Shyam Prasad and S Sunjith 21-9, 21-18.

India Open 2022: Malvika Bansod upsets Saina Nehwal to reach quarterfinals

India and South Africa are involved in a thrilling third and final Test at Newlands, Cape Town. The entire series has been a topsy-turvy ride with both teams leaving no stone unturned and not allowing the other to dictate terms from the word go.

While KL Rahul, Captain Virat Kohli, pacers Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, all-rounder Shardul Thakur and Rishabh Pant have done well during the course of the series for the Rahul Dravid-coached Indian team, Mayank Agarwal, Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane, R Ashwin, etc. haven't done anything extra ordinary. Talking about Mayank, the right-hander started the tour with a fine 60 in the first innings of the series opener, however, he couldn't capitalise on any of the following outings to return with scores of&nbsp;9, 17, 3, and 7.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-virat-kohli-inspires-indian-dugout-to-relentlessly-cheer-for-pacers-on-day-2-of-3rd-test-444404">WATCH: Virat Kohli inspires Indian dugout to relentlessly cheer for pacers on Day 2 of 3rd Test</a>

Thus, former Indian fast-bowling all-rounder Ajit Agarkar opened up on Mayank's struggles overseas and said was quoted as saying by News18,&nbsp;"He has wasted a chance because he started the series well. It is not easy when Rabada is in such a good rhythm, the way he was bowling, but he [Mayank] has technical faults. He gets out in the same way and he will get more exposed, especially, in overseas conditions."

"He could have done very little with this ball because it was close to the off-stump on a good length, moved away slightly after pitching, and bounced as well. Mayank Agarwal has not played much in overseas conditions either because he is the third or fourth opener," Agarkar further mentioned.

Given that the likes of Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill missed the SA Tests due to injury concerns, Mayank would be gutted to have not made a bigger contribution with the bat in the ongoing series, in the rainbow nation.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-keegan-petersen-takes-a-one-handed-stunner-to-dismiss-cheteshwar-pujara-on-day-3-in-cape-town-444377">WATCH: Keegan Petersen takes a one-handed stunner to dismiss Cheteshwar Pujara on Day 3 in Cape Town</a>

After the SA series, India will host Sri Lanka in a two-match Test series, which&nbsp;is scheduled to be held on February 25 and March 5, respectively. Thus, the Test specialist Mayank will be eager to make the most of his opportunities versus the Lankans and remain in India's scheme of things&nbsp;in the red-ball format.

India and South Africa are involved in a thrilling third and final Test at Newlands, Cape Town. The entire series has been a topsy-turvy ride with both teams leaving no stone unturned and not allowing the other to dictate terms from the word go.

India and South Africa are involved in a thrilling third and final Test at Newlands, Cape Town. The entire series has been a topsy-turvy ride with both teams leaving no stone unturned and not allowing the other to dictate terms from the word go. While KL Rahul, Captain Virat Kohli, pacers Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, all-rounder Shardul Thakur and Rishabh Pant have done well during the course of the series for the Rahul Dravid-coached Indian team, Mayank Agarwal, Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane, R Ashwin, etc. haven't done anything extra ordinary. Talking about Mayank, the right-hander started the tour with a fine 60 in the first innings of the series opener, however, he couldn't capitalise on any of the following outings to return with scores of 9, 17, 3, and 7. ALSO READ | WATCH: Virat Kohli inspires Indian dugout to relentlessly cheer for pacers on Day 2 of 3rd Test Thus, former Indian fast-bowling all-rounder Ajit Agarkar opened up on Mayank's struggles overseas and said was quoted as saying by News18, "He has wasted a chance because he started the series well. It is not easy when Rabada is in such a good rhythm, the way he was bowling, but he [Mayank] has technical faults. He gets out in the same way and he will get more exposed, especially, in overseas conditions." "He could have done very little with this ball because it was close to the off-stump on a good length, moved away slightly after pitching, and bounced as well. Mayank Agarwal has not played much in overseas conditions either because he is the third or fourth opener," Agarkar further mentioned. Given that the likes of Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill missed the SA Tests due to injury concerns, Mayank would be gutted to have not made a bigger contribution with the bat in the ongoing series, in the rainbow nation. ALSO READ | WATCH: Keegan Petersen takes a one-handed stunner to dismiss Cheteshwar Pujara on Day 3 in Cape Town After the SA series, India will host Sri Lanka in a two-match Test series, which is scheduled to be held on February 25 and March 5, respectively. Thus, the Test specialist Mayank will be eager to make the most of his opportunities versus the Lankans and remain in India's scheme of things in the red-ball format.

He has technical faults, will get more exposed in overseas conditions: Agarkar opines on Indian batter

The second match of the ODI series between hosts West Indies and Ireland will be played on January 13 (Thusday) at the Kingston, Sabina Park ground in Jamaica.&nbsp;

The severely depleted Irish side, already trailing 1-0 in the series, suffered a major setback when 3 big players of their team got out of the series after being Corona positive.

The second ODI was initially to be held on Tuesday but due to Corona, the dates had to be changed and now this match has been scheduled for January 13.

In the first encounter of the ODI series, host West Indies came out on the top after beating the Irish team by only 24 runs.&nbsp;In the hope of claiming the series, Kieron Pollard will hope for a much easier outing this time. Meanwhile, the visitors will hope that they&nbsp;can stage a comeback and level the series against the opposition.&nbsp;

Read Also |&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/sports/watch-virat-kohli-inspires-indian-dugout-to-relentlessly-cheer-for-pacers-on-day-2-of-3rd-test-444404">WATCH: Virat Kohli inspires Indian dugout to relentlessly cheer for pacers on Day 2 of 3rd Test</a>

Come Back!

In light of Simi Singh, Ben White, Andy Balbirnie, Lorcan Tucker, and coach David Ripley testing positive for Covid, the Irish training camp is severely depleted.&nbsp;Now the team management has to field a strong playing XI to make a comeback in the series.

Check out the means of watching the match live:

Where is WI vs IRE 2nd ODI match taking place?

The WI vs IRE 2nd ODI match will take place at Sabina Park, Kingston, Jamaica.

What time does WI vs IRE 2nd ODI match begin?

The IWI vs IRE 2nd ODI match begins at &nbsp;08:00 pm IST, on Thursday, January 13.

Read Also |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-sa-gavaskar-shares-how-ravi-shastri-inspired-speedster-md-shamis-revival-in-test-cricket-in-2018-444390">Ind vs SA: Gavaskar shares how Ravi Shastri inspired speedster Md Shami's revival in Test cricket in 2018</a>

How to watch live coverage of WI vs IRE 2nd ODI on TV?

The West Indies vs Ireland second ODI match will not be televised in India.

How to watch live coverage of WI vs IRE 2nd ODI on the live streaming?

Live streaming will be available on the FanCode app and website for the second ODI between West Indies and Ireland.

The second match of the ODI series between hosts West Indies and Ireland will be played on January 13 (Thusday) at the Kingston, Sabina Park ground in Jamaica. The severely depleted Irish side, already trailing 1-0 in the series, suffered a major setback when 3 big players of their team got out of the series after being Corona positive.

The second match of the ODI series between hosts West Indies and Ireland will be played on January 13 (Thusday) at the Kingston, Sabina Park ground in Jamaica. The severely depleted Irish side, already trailing 1-0 in the series, suffered a major setback when 3 big players of their team got out of the series after being Corona positive. The second ODI was initially to be held on Tuesday but due to Corona, the dates had to be changed and now this match has been scheduled for January 13. In the first encounter of the ODI series, host West Indies came out on the top after beating the Irish team by only 24 runs. In the hope of claiming the series, Kieron Pollard will hope for a much easier outing this time. Meanwhile, the visitors will hope that they can stage a comeback and level the series against the opposition. Read Also | WATCH: Virat Kohli inspires Indian dugout to relentlessly cheer for pacers on Day 2 of 3rd Test Come Back! In light of Simi Singh, Ben White, Andy Balbirnie, Lorcan Tucker, and coach David Ripley testing positive for Covid, the Irish training camp is severely depleted. Now the team management has to field a strong playing XI to make a comeback in the series. Check out the means of watching the match live: Where is WI vs IRE 2nd ODI match taking place? The WI vs IRE 2nd ODI match will take place at Sabina Park, Kingston, Jamaica. What time does WI vs IRE 2nd ODI match begin? The IWI vs IRE 2nd ODI match begins at 08:00 pm IST, on Thursday, January 13. Read Also | Ind vs SA: Gavaskar shares how Ravi Shastri inspired speedster Md Shami's revival in Test cricket in 2018 How to watch live coverage of WI vs IRE 2nd ODI on TV? The West Indies vs Ireland second ODI match will not be televised in India. How to watch live coverage of WI vs IRE 2nd ODI on the live streaming? Live streaming will be available on the FanCode app and website for the second ODI between West Indies and Ireland.

WI vs IRE, 2nd ODI live streaming: When and where to watch West Indies vs Ireland match live online?

Team India and South Africa have been involved in a humdinger of a three-match Test series in the rainbow nation. After India won the series opener in Centurion, the Dean Elgar-led Proteas bounced back in style to win the second and penultimate Test and level the series 1-1.

The series decider is interestingly poised with both sides fighting it hard at Newlands, Cape Town. On Wednesday (January 12), Virat Kohli-led Indian team had a tough ask to prevent SA from running ahead in the contest after being bundled out for 223 in the first innings on Day 1. When Day 2 kicked off, SA were 13-1 and soon reduced to 45-3 before Keegan Petersen-Rassie van der Dussen's fourth-wicket stand flourished for the home side.

After India got rid of van der Dussen, Petersen and Temba Bavuma joined forces and took the innings forward. Against the run of play, Mohammed Shami got rid of Bavuma as it led to an opening for India to stop SA from taking a vital first-innings lead. After India bounced back with two key wickets, Captain Kohli inspired the Indian dressing room to go all-out and cheer for the bowlers.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-sa-gavaskar-shares-how-ravi-shastri-inspired-speedster-md-shamis-revival-in-test-cricket-in-2018-444390">Ind vs SA: Gavaskar shares how Ravi Shastri inspired speedster Md Shami's revival in Test cricket in 2018</a>

“Taali maarte raho (keep clapping)”, were the wordings from Virat Kohli.&nbsp;Here's the video:

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Kohli celebrates the wickets.. looks towards his team dug out and shouts 'Keep Clapping Boys.. Keep Clapping' and this follows.. 
 
This guy just creates an amazing atmosphere in the match.. <a href="https://t.co/ens77zqg3M">pic.twitter.com/ens77zqg3M</a>
— Kanav Bali🏏 (@Concussion__Sub) <a href="https://twitter.com/Concussion__Sub/status/1481247167633235970?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 12, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-keegan-petersen-takes-a-one-handed-stunner-to-dismiss-cheteshwar-pujara-on-day-3-in-cape-town-444377">WATCH: Keegan Petersen takes a one-handed stunner to dismiss Cheteshwar Pujara on Day 3 in Cape Town</a>

After Day 2, Jasprit Bumrah, speaking at a press conference, also confirmed that the fast bowlers always have Kohli's back.

"I made my Test debut under him. It's always wonderful that he is there to back us. He always gives lot of motivation to all the bowlers. He brings a lot of energy to the side. It's always good to play under him," Bumrah told on Wednesday.

"It’s special that I started my journey over here and came back here and played a Test match and picked up a 5-wicket haul. Personal performances are good, but when you make an impact and the team wins, that gives you more satisfaction," he added.

At present, India will be looking to post anything over 250 to challenge Elgar &amp; Co. in the final innings and win their maiden Test series on South African soil.

Team India and South Africa have been involved in a humdinger of a three-match Test series in the rainbow nation. After India won the series opener in Centurion, the Dean Elgar-led Proteas bounced back in style to win the second and penultimate Test and level the series 1-1.

Team India and South Africa have been involved in a humdinger of a three-match Test series in the rainbow nation. After India won the series opener in Centurion, the Dean Elgar-led Proteas bounced back in style to win the second and penultimate Test and level the series 1-1. The series decider is interestingly poised with both sides fighting it hard at Newlands, Cape Town. On Wednesday (January 12), Virat Kohli-led Indian team had a tough ask to prevent SA from running ahead in the contest after being bundled out for 223 in the first innings on Day 1. When Day 2 kicked off, SA were 13-1 and soon reduced to 45-3 before Keegan Petersen-Rassie van der Dussen's fourth-wicket stand flourished for the home side. After India got rid of van der Dussen, Petersen and Temba Bavuma joined forces and took the innings forward. Against the run of play, Mohammed Shami got rid of Bavuma as it led to an opening for India to stop SA from taking a vital first-innings lead. After India bounced back with two key wickets, Captain Kohli inspired the Indian dressing room to go all-out and cheer for the bowlers. ALSO READ | Ind vs SA: Gavaskar shares how Ravi Shastri inspired speedster Md Shami's revival in Test cricket in 2018 “Taali maarte raho (keep clapping)”, were the wordings from Virat Kohli. Here's the video: Kohli celebrates the wickets.. looks towards his team dug out and shouts 'Keep Clapping Boys.. Keep Clapping' and this follows.. This guy just creates an amazing atmosphere in the match.. pic.twitter.com/ens77zqg3M — Kanav Bali🏏 (@Concussion__Sub) January 12, 2022 × ALSO READ | WATCH: Keegan Petersen takes a one-handed stunner to dismiss Cheteshwar Pujara on Day 3 in Cape Town After Day 2, Jasprit Bumrah, speaking at a press conference, also confirmed that the fast bowlers always have Kohli's back. "I made my Test debut under him. It's always wonderful that he is there to back us. He always gives lot of motivation to all the bowlers. He brings a lot of energy to the side. It's always good to play under him," Bumrah told on Wednesday. "It’s special that I started my journey over here and came back here and played a Test match and picked up a 5-wicket haul. Personal performances are good, but when you make an impact and the team wins, that gives you more satisfaction," he added. At present, India will be looking to post anything over 250 to challenge Elgar & Co. in the final innings and win their maiden Test series on South African soil.

WATCH: Virat Kohli inspires Indian dugout to relentlessly cheer for pacers on Day 2 of 3rd Test

Newcastle United have signed New Zealand striker Chris Wood from relegation rivals Burnley on a two-and-a-half-year deal, the two Premier League clubs announced on Thursday.

The clubs did not disclose financial details of the transfer but British media reported that Newcastle paid Burnley 25 million pounds ($34.3 million) for the 30-year-old.

"This is a very exciting opportunity for me and I`m delighted to be a Newcastle United player," Wood said, who has 27 goals for New Zealand, in a club statement.

Wood had been a key player for Burnley, having scored 49 goals in 144 league matches during his four-and-a-half years at Turf Moor. He joined Burnley from Leeds United in 2017 for a then-club-record fee.

Read Also |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/spanish-super-cup-semis-federico-valverdes-extra-time-winner-gives-real-madrid-3-2-victory-vs-barcelona-444364">Spanish Super Cup semis: Federico Valverde's extra-time winner gives Real Madrid 3-2 victory vs Barcelona</a>

Newcastle were in need of attacking reinforcements after top striker Callum Wilson had been ruled out for eight weeks due to a calf injury.

"Chris is an important signing for us at a crucial time and I`m very pleased we have been able to move quickly and bring him here," coach Eddie Howe said.

"He is a very dangerous attacking threat, has a physicality and character that I really like, and he has vast experience in the Premier League. He will be a great fit for us."

Read Also |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/el-clasico-when-and-where-to-watch-barcelona-vs-real-madrid-supercopa-semi-final-encounter-444187">El Clasico: When and where to watch Barcelona vs Real Madrid Supercopa semi-final encounter?</a>

Wood becomes Newcastle`s second signing since the club`s takeover by Saudi Arabia`s Public Investment Fund in October and more are expected to follow in the January window.

Newcastle, who are second-bottom in the league on 11 points after 19 matches, signed England fullback Kieran Trippier from LaLiga champions Atletico Madrid last week. They are due to host Watford in the league on Saturday.

Newcastle United have signed New Zealand striker Chris Wood from relegation rivals Burnley on a two-and-a-half-year deal, the two Premier League clubs announced on Thursday.

Newcastle United have signed New Zealand striker Chris Wood from relegation rivals Burnley on a two-and-a-half-year deal, the two Premier League clubs announced on Thursday. The clubs did not disclose financial details of the transfer but British media reported that Newcastle paid Burnley 25 million pounds ($34.3 million) for the 30-year-old. "This is a very exciting opportunity for me and I`m delighted to be a Newcastle United player," Wood said, who has 27 goals for New Zealand, in a club statement. Wood had been a key player for Burnley, having scored 49 goals in 144 league matches during his four-and-a-half years at Turf Moor. He joined Burnley from Leeds United in 2017 for a then-club-record fee. Read Also | Spanish Super Cup semis: Federico Valverde's extra-time winner gives Real Madrid 3-2 victory vs Barcelona Newcastle were in need of attacking reinforcements after top striker Callum Wilson had been ruled out for eight weeks due to a calf injury. "Chris is an important signing for us at a crucial time and I`m very pleased we have been able to move quickly and bring him here," coach Eddie Howe said. "He is a very dangerous attacking threat, has a physicality and character that I really like, and he has vast experience in the Premier League. He will be a great fit for us." Read Also | El Clasico: When and where to watch Barcelona vs Real Madrid Supercopa semi-final encounter? Wood becomes Newcastle`s second signing since the club`s takeover by Saudi Arabia`s Public Investment Fund in October and more are expected to follow in the January window. Newcastle, who are second-bottom in the league on 11 points after 19 matches, signed England fullback Kieran Trippier from LaLiga champions Atletico Madrid last week. They are due to host Watford in the league on Saturday.

Chris Wood joins Newcastle United from relegation rivals Burnley

It is safe to say that the current Indian cricket team is one of the best sides in the purest format of the game. They are ranked No. 1 in ICC Test rankings and have won some memorable series away from home in recent times, under Virat Kohli's leadership.

While Kohli's infectious energy, intensity and love for the Test format rubs off his teammates, one of the major reasons for India's rise in Tests -- since 2015 -- has been due to the pacers. The likes of Ishant Sharma, Mohammed Shami, Jasprit Bumrah, Umesh Yadav, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, etc. have contributed immensely to India's rise in whites in the last five-six years.

Among the current pace battery, Shami wasn't having an ideal time in the longest format of the game when India last toured South Africa in early 2018. Little Master Sunil Gavaskar recalled how former head coach Ravi Shastri inspired Shami to get his act together and deliver during India's third and inconsequential Test versus the Proteas, in Johannesburg, after the visitors had already conceded the three-match series 2-0.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-keegan-petersen-takes-a-one-handed-stunner-to-dismiss-cheteshwar-pujara-on-day-3-in-cape-town-444377">WATCH: Keegan Petersen takes a one-handed stunner to dismiss Cheteshwar Pujara on Day 3 in Cape Town</a>

Talking on commentary during the ongoing third and final Test between India-SA, in Cape Town, Gavaskar said, "At the Wanderers, the last time around in 2018, was when they actually got stuck into him apparently because till then he hadn’t really delivered. They said to him that on this pitch if you’re not going to take wickets then… So the word is and I am not too sure that Ravi gave him a rocket."

"And then he came out and destroyed South Africa. Sometimes you know, you need to put an arm around a player, sometimes you’ve got to just get stuck into him."

Thus, Kohli &amp; Co. won the 2018 J'burg Test by 63 runs -- in defence of 241 -- courtesy Shami's five-fer in the final innings.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-sa-3rd-test-jasprit-bumrahs-5-for-42-headlines-indias-recovery-at-stumps-on-day-2-444232">India vs SA, 3rd Test: Jasprit Bumrah's 5 for 42 headlines India's recovery at stumps on Day 2</a>

In the ongoing Cape Town Test, Shami has contributed with two scalps in SA's first innings. On his performance so far, the legendary Indian cricketer Gavaskar said, "Somebody of his calibre, you can’t keep him out of the game for a long time. He had seen Yadav take a couple of wickets, he had seen Bumrah bowl splendidly and take 2 wickets. So he wanted to contribute. And he came in and did it at the right time. That Bavuma and Petersen partnership was a delight to watch but at the same time it was threatening India, so they needed a wicket at that stage and Shami delivered it."

After India were bundled out for 223 in the 2021/22 Test series finale, SA were dismissed for 210 whereas Kohli &amp; Co. are 130-4, leading by 143, at lunch on Day 3, on Thursday (January 13).

It is safe to say that the current Indian cricket team is one of the best sides in the purest format of the game. They are ranked No. 1 in ICC Test rankings and have won some memorable series away from home in recent times, under Virat Kohli's leadership.

It is safe to say that the current Indian cricket team is one of the best sides in the purest format of the game. They are ranked No. 1 in ICC Test rankings and have won some memorable series away from home in recent times, under Virat Kohli's leadership. While Kohli's infectious energy, intensity and love for the Test format rubs off his teammates, one of the major reasons for India's rise in Tests -- since 2015 -- has been due to the pacers. The likes of Ishant Sharma, Mohammed Shami, Jasprit Bumrah, Umesh Yadav, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, etc. have contributed immensely to India's rise in whites in the last five-six years. Among the current pace battery, Shami wasn't having an ideal time in the longest format of the game when India last toured South Africa in early 2018. Little Master Sunil Gavaskar recalled how former head coach Ravi Shastri inspired Shami to get his act together and deliver during India's third and inconsequential Test versus the Proteas, in Johannesburg, after the visitors had already conceded the three-match series 2-0. ALSO READ | WATCH: Keegan Petersen takes a one-handed stunner to dismiss Cheteshwar Pujara on Day 3 in Cape Town Talking on commentary during the ongoing third and final Test between India-SA, in Cape Town, Gavaskar said, "At the Wanderers, the last time around in 2018, was when they actually got stuck into him apparently because till then he hadn’t really delivered. They said to him that on this pitch if you’re not going to take wickets then… So the word is and I am not too sure that Ravi gave him a rocket." "And then he came out and destroyed South Africa. Sometimes you know, you need to put an arm around a player, sometimes you’ve got to just get stuck into him." Thus, Kohli & Co. won the 2018 J'burg Test by 63 runs -- in defence of 241 -- courtesy Shami's five-fer in the final innings. ALSO READ | India vs SA, 3rd Test: Jasprit Bumrah's 5 for 42 headlines India's recovery at stumps on Day 2 In the ongoing Cape Town Test, Shami has contributed with two scalps in SA's first innings. On his performance so far, the legendary Indian cricketer Gavaskar said, "Somebody of his calibre, you can’t keep him out of the game for a long time. He had seen Yadav take a couple of wickets, he had seen Bumrah bowl splendidly and take 2 wickets. So he wanted to contribute. And he came in and did it at the right time. That Bavuma and Petersen partnership was a delight to watch but at the same time it was threatening India, so they needed a wicket at that stage and Shami delivered it." After India were bundled out for 223 in the 2021/22 Test series finale, SA were dismissed for 210 whereas Kohli & Co. are 130-4, leading by 143, at lunch on Day 3, on Thursday (January 13).

Ind vs SA: Gavaskar shares how Ravi Shastri inspired speedster Md Shami's revival in Test cricket in 2018

India and South Africa's third and final Test is moving ahead at a rapid pace. After managing only 223 in the first innings, Virat Kohli-led Indian team staged a stunning recovery on Day 2, on Wednesday (January 12), to dismiss SA for 210 and take a slender 13-run lead. At stumps, India were 57-2, with an overall lead of 70.

In the opening over of the third day's play, on Thursday (January 13), Dean Elgar-led Proteas were off to a brilliant start. Having a leg-slip for Cheteshwar Pujara, Marco Jansen dropped it short as Pujara feathered it down&nbsp;before Petersen produced a blinder to take a one-handed stunner.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-sa-cape-town-test-kohli-achieves-unique-ton-joins-stalwarts-tendulkar-dravid-in-elite-list-444195">India vs SA, Cape Town Test: Kohli achieves unique ton, joins stalwarts Tendulkar, Dravid in elite list</a>

The video of the dismissal was shared by Cricket South Africa's (CSA) official Twitter handle. The caption read, "Keegan Petersen with a magnificent catch on the second ball of the day."

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Keegan Petersen with a magnificent catch on the second ball of the day😍 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SAvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SAvIND</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FreedomTestSeries?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FreedomTestSeries</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BePartOfIt?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BePartOfIt</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/Betway_India?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Betway_India</a> <a href="https://t.co/zqcAtMahSi">pic.twitter.com/zqcAtMahSi</a>
— Cricket South Africa (@OfficialCSA) <a href="https://twitter.com/OfficialCSA/status/1481548049046458370?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 13, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/hes-entertaining-but-brad-hogg-opines-on-pant-advises-dravid-to-not-have-a-word-with-him-444102">'He’s entertaining but...' - Brad Hogg opines on Pant, advises Dravid to not have a word with him</a>

After Pujara's dismissal, India also lost former vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane for cheap. The veteran batter's forgettable run continued as he fell for a 9-ball 1. Following the dismissals of Pujara and Rahane, India have made progress with Captain Virat Kohli and wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant's unbroken fifty-plus stand for the fifth-wicket before lunch being taken in the middle on Day 3.

At lunch on Day 3, India are 130-4 (lead by 143) with Rishabh Pant batting on 51 and Kohli unbeaten on 28.

India and South Africa's third and final Test is moving ahead at a rapid pace. After managing only 223 in the first innings, Virat Kohli-led Indian team staged a stunning recovery on Day 2, on Wednesday (January 12), to dismiss SA for 210 and take a slender 13-run lead.

India and South Africa's third and final Test is moving ahead at a rapid pace. After managing only 223 in the first innings, Virat Kohli-led Indian team staged a stunning recovery on Day 2, on Wednesday (January 12), to dismiss SA for 210 and take a slender 13-run lead. At stumps, India were 57-2, with an overall lead of 70. In the opening over of the third day's play, on Thursday (January 13), Dean Elgar-led Proteas were off to a brilliant start. Having a leg-slip for Cheteshwar Pujara, Marco Jansen dropped it short as Pujara feathered it down before Petersen produced a blinder to take a one-handed stunner. ALSO READ | India vs SA, Cape Town Test: Kohli achieves unique ton, joins stalwarts Tendulkar, Dravid in elite list The video of the dismissal was shared by Cricket South Africa's (CSA) official Twitter handle. The caption read, "Keegan Petersen with a magnificent catch on the second ball of the day." Keegan Petersen with a magnificent catch on the second ball of the day😍 #SAvIND #FreedomTestSeries #BePartOfIt | @Betway_India pic.twitter.com/zqcAtMahSi — Cricket South Africa (@OfficialCSA) January 13, 2022 × ALSO READ | 'He’s entertaining but...' - Brad Hogg opines on Pant, advises Dravid to not have a word with him After Pujara's dismissal, India also lost former vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane for cheap. The veteran batter's forgettable run continued as he fell for a 9-ball 1. Following the dismissals of Pujara and Rahane, India have made progress with Captain Virat Kohli and wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant's unbroken fifty-plus stand for the fifth-wicket before lunch being taken in the middle on Day 3. At lunch on Day 3, India are 130-4 (lead by 143) with Rishabh Pant batting on 51 and Kohli unbeaten on 28.

WATCH: Keegan Petersen takes a one-handed stunner to dismiss Cheteshwar Pujara on Day 3 in Cape Town

The IPL 2022 mega auction is set to be held in Bengaluru in mid-February, 2021. During the recent IPL General Council meeting, on Tuesday (January 11), some big decisions were made, such as Tata group becoming the title sponsor for the cash-rich league, auction dates and venues being confirmed, however, nothing was revealed about the schedule and venues for IPL 2022.

As per reports, the Sourav Ganguly-led BCCI is monitoring the Covid-19 situation in India and have Plan B in mind as well. While BCCI wants the IPL to be held in India itself, the third wave of Covid-19 virus is knocking on the door and no one can predict how things pan out with regard to the virus spread in the coming days. Though BCCI have also been contemplating the idea of organising the cash-rich league in Maharashtra, the state is reporting the highest number of Covid cases at present. Hence, as per a report in Indian Express, the board will go ahead and organise the league in Sri Lanka or South Africa (as per their Plan B).

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2022-mega-auction-in-bengaluru-as-dates-confirmed-after-governing-council-meeting-443975">IPL 2022 mega auction in Bengaluru as dates confirmed after governing council meeting</a>

“We can’t be dependent on UAE all the time so we decided to explore more options, South Africa’s time difference also works out well for the players,”&nbsp;said a BCCI official.&nbsp;

“The place where the team was staying for the second Test is spread over several acres. There were walking tracks and even a pond on the property and that has made things easier for the players who for the last couple of years or so have been confined to their rooms on several overseas tours,”&nbsp;said an official.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tata-to-be-new-title-sponsor-of-indian-premier-league-after-vivo-pulls-out-443830">Tata to be new title sponsor of Indian Premier League after Vivo pulls out</a>

The last two editions of IPL have majorily been held in the UAE. IPL 2020 was entirely held in the Middle East whereas last year's edition's second leg was hosted in UAE. While Sri Lanka have never hosted an IPL season, SA were the hosts for IPL 2009.&nbsp;

BCCI is willing to take the IPL to SA seeing how smoothly the ongoing India-Proteas Test series has gone by despite many doubting if the tour would go on, in early December 2021, after the Omicron spread in the rainbow nation.

For the unversed, the Omicron threat has already been nullified in the African nation, with the country also lifting restrictions that were imposed about a month ago.

The IPL 2022 mega auction is set to be held in Bengaluru in mid-February, 2021. During the recent IPL General Council meeting, on Tuesday (January 11), some big decisions were made, such as Tata group becoming the title sponsor for the cash-rich league, auction dates and venues being confirmed, however, nothing was revealed about the schedule and venues for IPL 2022.

The IPL 2022 mega auction is set to be held in Bengaluru in mid-February, 2021. During the recent IPL General Council meeting, on Tuesday (January 11), some big decisions were made, such as Tata group becoming the title sponsor for the cash-rich league, auction dates and venues being confirmed, however, nothing was revealed about the schedule and venues for IPL 2022. As per reports, the Sourav Ganguly-led BCCI is monitoring the Covid-19 situation in India and have Plan B in mind as well. While BCCI wants the IPL to be held in India itself, the third wave of Covid-19 virus is knocking on the door and no one can predict how things pan out with regard to the virus spread in the coming days. Though BCCI have also been contemplating the idea of organising the cash-rich league in Maharashtra, the state is reporting the highest number of Covid cases at present. Hence, as per a report in Indian Express, the board will go ahead and organise the league in Sri Lanka or South Africa (as per their Plan B). ALSO READ | IPL 2022 mega auction in Bengaluru as dates confirmed after governing council meeting “We can’t be dependent on UAE all the time so we decided to explore more options, South Africa’s time difference also works out well for the players,” said a BCCI official. “The place where the team was staying for the second Test is spread over several acres. There were walking tracks and even a pond on the property and that has made things easier for the players who for the last couple of years or so have been confined to their rooms on several overseas tours,” said an official. ALSO READ | Tata to be new title sponsor of Indian Premier League after Vivo pulls out The last two editions of IPL have majorily been held in the UAE. IPL 2020 was entirely held in the Middle East whereas last year's edition's second leg was hosted in UAE. While Sri Lanka have never hosted an IPL season, SA were the hosts for IPL 2009. BCCI is willing to take the IPL to SA seeing how smoothly the ongoing India-Proteas Test series has gone by despite many doubting if the tour would go on, in early December 2021, after the Omicron spread in the rainbow nation. For the unversed, the Omicron threat has already been nullified in the African nation, with the country also lifting restrictions that were imposed about a month ago.

Not UAE? BCCI contemplating staging IPL 2022 in Sri Lanka or South Africa as Plan B: Report

Federico Valverde finished off a stunning move in extra time to give Real Madrid a 3-2 victory over rivals Barcelona in an exhilarating Spanish Super Cup semi-final in Saudi Arabia on Wednesday.

Real advanced to Sunday’s final and will face the winner of Thursday’s clash between tournament holders Athletic Bilbao and LaLiga champions Atletico Madrid in the Saudi capital Riyadh.

Vinicius Jr opened the scoring for Real from a counter-attack early in the first half, but Luuk de Jong equalised shortly before halftime following a mistake by Real defender Eder Militao.

Read Also |&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/sports/liverpool-manager-juergen-klopp-staying-positive-of-mohamed-salah-signing-new-contract-444207">Liverpool manager Juergen Klopp 'staying positive' of Mohamed Salah signing new contract</a>

Karim Benzema put Real back in front 25 minutes into the second half, striking home on the rebound from inside the area, but a header by substitute Ansu Fati, who was making his first appearance since November, took the game into extra time.

Real found the winner from another counter-attack, with Rodrygo firing a low cross to the edge of the area. Vinicius dummied to shoot, which eliminated the entire Barca defence and left Valverde all alone to tap the ball into an empty net.

Federico Valverde finished off a stunning move in extra time to give Real Madrid a 3-2 victory over rivals Barcelona in an exhilarating Spanish Super Cup semi-final in Saudi Arabia on Wednesday.

Federico Valverde finished off a stunning move in extra time to give Real Madrid a 3-2 victory over rivals Barcelona in an exhilarating Spanish Super Cup semi-final in Saudi Arabia on Wednesday. Real advanced to Sunday’s final and will face the winner of Thursday’s clash between tournament holders Athletic Bilbao and LaLiga champions Atletico Madrid in the Saudi capital Riyadh. Vinicius Jr opened the scoring for Real from a counter-attack early in the first half, but Luuk de Jong equalised shortly before halftime following a mistake by Real defender Eder Militao. Read Also | Liverpool manager Juergen Klopp 'staying positive' of Mohamed Salah signing new contract Karim Benzema put Real back in front 25 minutes into the second half, striking home on the rebound from inside the area, but a header by substitute Ansu Fati, who was making his first appearance since November, took the game into extra time. Real found the winner from another counter-attack, with Rodrygo firing a low cross to the edge of the area. Vinicius dummied to shoot, which eliminated the entire Barca defence and left Valverde all alone to tap the ball into an empty net.

Spanish Super Cup semis: Federico Valverde's extra-time winner gives Real Madrid 3-2 victory vs Barcelona

Shuttler PV Sindhu progressed to the next round of the ongoing India Open 2022 here at the KD Jadhav Indoor Hall in New Delhi on Thursday.

In an all-Indian affair, Sindhu outclassed Ira Sharma 21-10, 21-10 to progress to the next round.Sindhu was at her dominant self in the first game and she wrapped up the game inside 13 minutes.

Continuing from where she left off, the 26-year-old took full advantage of her momentum and ended up winning the match within 30 minutes.

Earlier, Badminton World Federation (BWF) on Thursday confirmed that seven players have been withdrawn from the ongoing India Open 2022 after testing positive for COVID-19.

Read Also |<a href="http://13.235.153.162/sports/one-thing-i-am-focusing-on-is-to-cut-down-big-errors-says-shuttler-hs-prannoy-444222">&nbsp;'One thing I am focusing on is to cut down big errors', says shuttler HS Prannoy</a>

"The players returned a positive result to a mandatory RT-PCR test conducted on Tuesday. Doubles partners deemed close contact of the seven players have also been withdrawn from the tournament," BWF said in a statement.

The seven players to test positive for COVID-19 were all Indians and they were -- Kidambi Srikanth, Ashwini Ponnappa, Ritika Rahul Thakar, Treesa Jolly, Mithun Manjunath, Simran Aman Singhi, and Khushi Gupta.

According to BWF, the players will not be replaced in the main draw and their opponents will be given a walkover to the next round.

"Testing protocols have been implemented in accordance with Badminton World Federation and Badminton Association of India guidelines to ensure the health and safety of all participants," the statement further read.

Shuttler PV Sindhu progressed to the next round of the ongoing India Open 2022 here at the KD Jadhav Indoor Hall in New Delhi on Thursday. In an all-Indian affair, Sindhu outclassed Ira Sharma 21-10, 21-10 to progress to the next round.

Shuttler PV Sindhu progressed to the next round of the ongoing India Open 2022 here at the KD Jadhav Indoor Hall in New Delhi on Thursday. In an all-Indian affair, Sindhu outclassed Ira Sharma 21-10, 21-10 to progress to the next round.Sindhu was at her dominant self in the first game and she wrapped up the game inside 13 minutes. Continuing from where she left off, the 26-year-old took full advantage of her momentum and ended up winning the match within 30 minutes. Earlier, Badminton World Federation (BWF) on Thursday confirmed that seven players have been withdrawn from the ongoing India Open 2022 after testing positive for COVID-19. Read Also | 'One thing I am focusing on is to cut down big errors', says shuttler HS Prannoy "The players returned a positive result to a mandatory RT-PCR test conducted on Tuesday. Doubles partners deemed close contact of the seven players have also been withdrawn from the tournament," BWF said in a statement. The seven players to test positive for COVID-19 were all Indians and they were -- Kidambi Srikanth, Ashwini Ponnappa, Ritika Rahul Thakar, Treesa Jolly, Mithun Manjunath, Simran Aman Singhi, and Khushi Gupta. According to BWF, the players will not be replaced in the main draw and their opponents will be given a walkover to the next round. "Testing protocols have been implemented in accordance with Badminton World Federation and Badminton Association of India guidelines to ensure the health and safety of all participants," the statement further read.

PV Sindhu thrashes Ira Sharma, enters next round of Indian Open

Crowds at the main Australian Open tennis stadiums will be capped at 50% capacity under updated COVID-19 restrictions, organisers said on Thursday, as authorities battle a surge of cases in Melbourne.

Face masks will also be mandatory for all patrons, except when eating or drinking, and there will be density limits of one person per two square metres at indoor hospitality venues.

Tennis Australia (TA) said the 50% cap only applied for ticket sales at the Rod Laver Arena centre court and the second show court Margaret Court Arena.

"There are no changes to ground pass access and we still expect to see strong crowds," TA executive Ben Slack said in a statement. 
"We are confident in the `COVIDSafe` measures we have in place."

Read Also |&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/sports/world-no-1-novak-djokovic-in-australian-open-draw-as-visa-decision-looms-444345">World No. 1 Novak Djokovic in Australian Open draw as visa decision looms</a>

Victoria, which hosts the Grand Slam in state capital Melbourne, reported 37,169 new cases of COVID-19 on Thursday and 25 deaths. 
The tally of cases is slightly down from Wednesday`s count of 40,127.

The buildup to the Australian Open, which starts Monday, has been overshadowed by doubt surrounding the participation of men`s champion Novak Djokovic.

Read Also |&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/sports/exclusive-hes-been-playing-by-his-own-rules-tsitsipas-opines-on-novak-djokovic-aus-open-saga-444346">EXCLUSIVE | He's been playing by his own rules: Tsitsipas opines on Novak Djokovic Aus Open saga</a>

Djokovic had his visa cancelled and was detained by Australian border authorities for several days before being released on Monday after winning a court case.

The Victoria government said all tickets purchased to the Grand Slam to date remained valid, implying usually brisk sales at the main courts had not reached 50% capacity for any sessions.

Crowds at the main Australian Open tennis stadiums will be capped at 50% capacity under updated COVID-19 restrictions, organisers said on Thursday, as authorities battle a surge of cases in Melbourne.

Crowds at the main Australian Open tennis stadiums will be capped at 50% capacity under updated COVID-19 restrictions, organisers said on Thursday, as authorities battle a surge of cases in Melbourne. Face masks will also be mandatory for all patrons, except when eating or drinking, and there will be density limits of one person per two square metres at indoor hospitality venues. Tennis Australia (TA) said the 50% cap only applied for ticket sales at the Rod Laver Arena centre court and the second show court Margaret Court Arena. "There are no changes to ground pass access and we still expect to see strong crowds," TA executive Ben Slack said in a statement. "We are confident in the `COVIDSafe` measures we have in place." Read Also | World No. 1 Novak Djokovic in Australian Open draw as visa decision looms Victoria, which hosts the Grand Slam in state capital Melbourne, reported 37,169 new cases of COVID-19 on Thursday and 25 deaths. The tally of cases is slightly down from Wednesday`s count of 40,127. The buildup to the Australian Open, which starts Monday, has been overshadowed by doubt surrounding the participation of men`s champion Novak Djokovic. Read Also | EXCLUSIVE | He's been playing by his own rules: Tsitsipas opines on Novak Djokovic Aus Open saga Djokovic had his visa cancelled and was detained by Australian border authorities for several days before being released on Monday after winning a court case. The Victoria government said all tickets purchased to the Grand Slam to date remained valid, implying usually brisk sales at the main courts had not reached 50% capacity for any sessions.

Australian Open: Crowds to be capped at 50% capacity under revised COVID-19 restrictions

Author

Zee News Rajasthan

Editor

Aditya Sahay

Home

Live Tv

Latest

World

India

Business

Entertainment

Sports

Opinions

Videos

Photos

Gravitas

Lifestyle

Science

Tech

Rajasthan News in Hindi: In-depth coverage of Rajasthan Crime, Political News, Education, Rajasthan Weather Update and Latest Rajasthan News on Zee News Rajasthan.