Mankading continues to divide the cricket fraternity. While the mode of dismissal is mentioned within the laws of the game, it remains controversial as many believe it is against the spirit of the game. Nonetheless, many bowlers have used the mode of dismissal to get rid of batters in the modern era.

R Ashwin remains one such bowler who has been quite vocal in support of the controversial mode of dismissal, i.e. mankading. In IPL 2019, he dismissed Jos Buttler by resorting to mankading which led to a widespread reaction in the cricketing fraternity. While many slammed him, there were a few who also supported the off-spinner. However, the wily spin-bowling all-rounder remained adamant that he will continue to back the mode of dismissal as it is in the laws of the game.

However, not many know that Ashwin had resorted to mankading in 2012. During India's tour of Australia, the then MS Dhoni-led Men in Blue were involved in the tri-series, i.e. the 2011-12 CB Series, which also had Sri Lanka as the third team. While facing Sri Lanka in match 8, India were without regular captain Dhoni (banned for one game due to slow over-rate).

During the encounter, Ashwin mankaded Sri Lanka batter&nbsp;Lahiru Thirimanne (batting on 44) in the 40th over. While Ashwin had warned the batter before as well, he went ahead with mankading the Sri Lankan before stand-in captain Virender Sehwag decided to overturn the appeal (influenced by Master Blaster Sachin Tendulkar). Here's the video:

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-eyes-twin-milestones-as-he-gears-up-for-comeback-in-3rd-test-against-south-africa-in-cape-town-443518">Virat Kohli eyes twin milestones as he gears up for comeback in 3rd Test against South Africa in Cape Town</a>

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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/throwback-when-kapil-dev-mankanded-peter-kirsten-during-indias-1992-tour-of-sa-watch-438727">THROWBACK: When Kapil Dev mankanded Peter Kirsten during India's 1992 tour of SA -</a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/throwback-when-kapil-dev-mankanded-peter-kirsten-during-indias-1992-tour-of-sa-watch-438727"> WATCH</a>

Talking about the match, at The Gabba, Brisbane, the Mahela Jayawardene-led SL batted first and posted 289-6 riding on Tilakaratne Dilshan and Thirimanne's fifties. In reply, Dhoni-less India only managed 238 all-out in 45.1 overs.&nbsp;

For the unversed, India were competitive in most matches but didn't qualify for the finals. Australia went onto win the tournament; winning the best of 3 finals 2-1.

Mankading continues to divide the cricket fraternity. While the mode of dismissal is mentioned within the laws of the game, it remains controversial as many believe it is against the spirit of the game.

Mankading continues to divide the cricket fraternity. While the mode of dismissal is mentioned within the laws of the game, it remains controversial as many believe it is against the spirit of the game. Nonetheless, many bowlers have used the mode of dismissal to get rid of batters in the modern era. R Ashwin remains one such bowler who has been quite vocal in support of the controversial mode of dismissal, i.e. mankading. In IPL 2019, he dismissed Jos Buttler by resorting to mankading which led to a widespread reaction in the cricketing fraternity. While many slammed him, there were a few who also supported the off-spinner. However, the wily spin-bowling all-rounder remained adamant that he will continue to back the mode of dismissal as it is in the laws of the game. However, not many know that Ashwin had resorted to mankading in 2012. During India's tour of Australia, the then MS Dhoni-led Men in Blue were involved in the tri-series, i.e. the 2011-12 CB Series, which also had Sri Lanka as the third team. While facing Sri Lanka in match 8, India were without regular captain Dhoni (banned for one game due to slow over-rate). During the encounter, Ashwin mankaded Sri Lanka batter Lahiru Thirimanne (batting on 44) in the 40th over. While Ashwin had warned the batter before as well, he went ahead with mankading the Sri Lankan before stand-in captain Virender Sehwag decided to overturn the appeal (influenced by Master Blaster Sachin Tendulkar). Here's the video: ALSO READ | Virat Kohli eyes twin milestones as he gears up for comeback in 3rd Test against South Africa in Cape Town × ALSO READ | THROWBACK: When Kapil Dev mankanded Peter Kirsten during India's 1992 tour of SA - WATCH Talking about the match, at The Gabba, Brisbane, the Mahela Jayawardene-led SL batted first and posted 289-6 riding on Tilakaratne Dilshan and Thirimanne's fifties. In reply, Dhoni-less India only managed 238 all-out in 45.1 overs. For the unversed, India were competitive in most matches but didn't qualify for the finals. Australia went onto win the tournament; winning the best of 3 finals 2-1.

Throwback: When Ashwin mankaded SL batter only for stand-in captain Sehwag to overturn appeal - WATCH

There has been a lot happening in tennis ahead of the Australian Open 2022. Before the first Grand Slam of the calendar year, world number 1 Novak Djokovic has made the headlines for all the wrong reasons. The Serbian's apprehensions regarding the Covid-19 vaccination isn't unknown. As per the rules, every player has to be double vaccinated to participate in the Aus Open. Hence, Djokovic had announced earlier this week that he has got exemption to participate in the showpiece event.

However, the Serb was denied entry in Australia after the country's Prime Minister Scott Morrison revealed that his visa has been cancelled as 'rules are rules' for one and all. Thus, the 34-year-old superstar tennis player was taken to a government detention hotel, on Wednesday (January 5), after being&nbsp;stopped at the airport as the Australian Federal Border Force officials claimed that he wasn't able to justify the grounds for his exemption (granted by the Victorian government). Despite a legal action from Djokovic's end, the state lawyer&nbsp;Christopher Tran has made it clear that Australia won't deport him before a final court hearing, on Monday (January 10).&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australia-delays-novak-djokovics-deportation-whats-next-for-world-no-1-and-his-bid-for-aus-open-title-442621">Australia delays Novak Djokovic's deportation: What's next for world no. 1 and his bid for Aus Open title?</a>

Thus, Rafael Nadal has spoken at length on Djokovic's Aus Open saga. In a press conference, the Spaniard said, "From my point of view, that's the only thing that I can say is I believe in what the people who knows about medicine says, and if the people says that we need to get vaccinated, we need to get the vaccine. That's my point of view."

"I went through the COVID. I have been vaccinated twice. If you do this, you don't have any problem to play here. That's the only clear thing."

The 35-year-old Nadal further asserted, "The only for me clear thing is if you are vaccinated, you can play in the Australian Open and everywhere, and the world in my opinion have been suffering enough to not follow the rules."

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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-open-novak-djokovics-visa-to-enter-country-cancelled-pm-scott-morrison-says-rules-are-rules-442535">Australian Open: Novak Djokovic's visa to enter country cancelled, PM Scott Morrison says 'rules are rules'</a>

The 2009 Aus Open winner added,&nbsp;"I think if he wanted, he would be playing here in Australia without a problem. He went through another -- he made his own decisions, and everybody is free to take their own decisions, but then there are some consequences."

"Ofcourse I don't like the situation that is happening. In some way I feel sorry for him. But at the same time, he knew the conditions since a lot of months ago, so he makes his own decision."&nbsp;

Nadal, however, didn't encourage Djokoivic to take the vaccine and, in turn,&nbsp;said, "I don't encourage no one. I feel everyone have to do whatever, whatever feels that is good for him. But there are rules, and if you don't want to get the vaccine, then you can have some troubles. That's the thing."

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: 'Rules are Rules': Australia bars Novak Djokovic from Australian Open

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"Of course after a lot of people had been dying for two years, my feeling is with the vaccine is the only way to stop this pandemic. That's what the people who understands about this says, and I am no one to create a different opinion," he concluded.

The Australian Open will commence on January 17. With the defending champion caught in a huge spot of bother amid vaccine status, it seems that Nadal will start as overwhelming favourite to win his second title Down Under.

There has been a lot happening in tennis ahead of the Australian Open 2022. Before the first Grand Slam of the calendar year, world number 1 Novak Djokovic has made the headlines for all the wrong reasons.

There has been a lot happening in tennis ahead of the Australian Open 2022. Before the first Grand Slam of the calendar year, world number 1 Novak Djokovic has made the headlines for all the wrong reasons. The Serbian's apprehensions regarding the Covid-19 vaccination isn't unknown. As per the rules, every player has to be double vaccinated to participate in the Aus Open. Hence, Djokovic had announced earlier this week that he has got exemption to participate in the showpiece event. However, the Serb was denied entry in Australia after the country's Prime Minister Scott Morrison revealed that his visa has been cancelled as 'rules are rules' for one and all. Thus, the 34-year-old superstar tennis player was taken to a government detention hotel, on Wednesday (January 5), after being stopped at the airport as the Australian Federal Border Force officials claimed that he wasn't able to justify the grounds for his exemption (granted by the Victorian government). Despite a legal action from Djokovic's end, the state lawyer Christopher Tran has made it clear that Australia won't deport him before a final court hearing, on Monday (January 10). ALSO READ | Australia delays Novak Djokovic's deportation: What's next for world no. 1 and his bid for Aus Open title? Thus, Rafael Nadal has spoken at length on Djokovic's Aus Open saga. In a press conference, the Spaniard said, "From my point of view, that's the only thing that I can say is I believe in what the people who knows about medicine says, and if the people says that we need to get vaccinated, we need to get the vaccine. That's my point of view." "I went through the COVID. I have been vaccinated twice. If you do this, you don't have any problem to play here. That's the only clear thing." The 35-year-old Nadal further asserted, "The only for me clear thing is if you are vaccinated, you can play in the Australian Open and everywhere, and the world in my opinion have been suffering enough to not follow the rules." × ALSO READ | Australian Open: Novak Djokovic's visa to enter country cancelled, PM Scott Morrison says 'rules are rules' The 2009 Aus Open winner added, "I think if he wanted, he would be playing here in Australia without a problem. He went through another -- he made his own decisions, and everybody is free to take their own decisions, but then there are some consequences." "Ofcourse I don't like the situation that is happening. In some way I feel sorry for him. But at the same time, he knew the conditions since a lot of months ago, so he makes his own decision." Nadal, however, didn't encourage Djokoivic to take the vaccine and, in turn, said, "I don't encourage no one. I feel everyone have to do whatever, whatever feels that is good for him. But there are rules, and if you don't want to get the vaccine, then you can have some troubles. That's the thing." Watch | Gravitas: 'Rules are Rules': Australia bars Novak Djokovic from Australian Open "Of course after a lot of people had been dying for two years, my feeling is with the vaccine is the only way to stop this pandemic. That's what the people who understands about this says, and I am no one to create a different opinion," he concluded. The Australian Open will commence on January 17. With the defending champion caught in a huge spot of bother amid vaccine status, it seems that Nadal will start as overwhelming favourite to win his second title Down Under.

'Feel sorry for him but he .....': Rafael Nadal opines on Novak Djokovic's Australian Open 2022 saga

Aussie spin wizard Shane Warne remains a big name in world cricket. Warner ended with 708 wickets in the purest format of the game, being the second-highest wicket-taker in whites to date. However, the superstar cricketer endured several controversies during his illustrious career for his national side.&nbsp;

Recently, Warne has dropped a bomb by revealing that he was offered a whopping amount (a hefty $276,000) to underperform in a Test match against Pakistan in Karachi in 1994. In his upcoming documentary 'Shane' on Amazon Prime, Warne said tainted Pakistan cricketer Saleem Malik told him, “I need to see you.” He added, "We’re feeling pretty confident that we’re going to knock over Pakistan. I knock on the door, Saleem Malik answers the door. I sit down, and he goes, ‘Good match we’ve got going’. I went, ‘Yep, I think we should win tomorrow though’."

“He goes, ‘Well we can’t lose …. you don’t understand what happens when we lose in Pakistan. Our houses will get burnt down, out family’s houses will get burnt down’," asserted the legendary spinner.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/what-message-does-that-send-david-warner-recalls-his-srh-omission-makes-glaring-remark-442951">'What message does that send?' - David Warner recalls his SRH omission, makes glaring remark</a>

Warne then went onto add that Malik offered him and teammate Tim May a $276,000 bribe to bowl a string of wides and not look for wickets.

“I don’t really know what to say,” Warne claimed. “I just sort of sat there, stunned. And then I go, ‘F*** you, mate. We’re going to beat ya’.”

Warne further told,&nbsp;"When you talk about match-fixing now, people hope it doesn’t go on. Back in that time, 30 years ago, there was no talk about it. It had never raised its head anywhere in any sport. When he offered me that, it was a bit like, ‘What the hell?’ I was blown away, I didn’t know anything about it."

Later, Warne revealed that May and he went onto inform&nbsp;captain Mark Taylor and coach Bob Taylor about the whole turn of events and the matter was reported to the match-referee. As a result, Malik paid the price for ultimately being given a life ban from the gentlemen's game in 2000.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/jonny-bairstows-century-keeps-england-in-fight-despite-australias-dominance-in-4th-ashes-test-442927">Jonny Bairstow's century keeps England in fight despite Australia's dominance in 4th Ashes Test</a>

At present, Warne remains very vocal about the gentlemen's game and often shares his views on various platforms. Currently, the Australian cricket team is involved in Ashes 2021 versus England, at home. After claiming the series 3-0 and retaining the urn, the Pat Cummins-led hosts are now aiming for a series whitewash and are already in the driver's seat in the ongoing fourth and penultimate Test at SCG, Sydney.

Aussie spin wizard Shane Warne remains a big name in world cricket. Warner ended with 708 wickets in the purest format of the game, being the second-highest wicket-taker in whites to date.

Aussie spin wizard Shane Warne remains a big name in world cricket. Warner ended with 708 wickets in the purest format of the game, being the second-highest wicket-taker in whites to date. However, the superstar cricketer endured several controversies during his illustrious career for his national side. Recently, Warne has dropped a bomb by revealing that he was offered a whopping amount (a hefty $276,000) to underperform in a Test match against Pakistan in Karachi in 1994. In his upcoming documentary 'Shane' on Amazon Prime, Warne said tainted Pakistan cricketer Saleem Malik told him, “I need to see you.” He added, "We’re feeling pretty confident that we’re going to knock over Pakistan. I knock on the door, Saleem Malik answers the door. I sit down, and he goes, ‘Good match we’ve got going’. I went, ‘Yep, I think we should win tomorrow though’." “He goes, ‘Well we can’t lose …. you don’t understand what happens when we lose in Pakistan. Our houses will get burnt down, out family’s houses will get burnt down’," asserted the legendary spinner. ALSO READ | 'What message does that send?' - David Warner recalls his SRH omission, makes glaring remark Warne then went onto add that Malik offered him and teammate Tim May a $276,000 bribe to bowl a string of wides and not look for wickets. “I don’t really know what to say,” Warne claimed. “I just sort of sat there, stunned. And then I go, ‘F*** you, mate. We’re going to beat ya’.” Warne further told, "When you talk about match-fixing now, people hope it doesn’t go on. Back in that time, 30 years ago, there was no talk about it. It had never raised its head anywhere in any sport. When he offered me that, it was a bit like, ‘What the hell?’ I was blown away, I didn’t know anything about it." Later, Warne revealed that May and he went onto inform captain Mark Taylor and coach Bob Taylor about the whole turn of events and the matter was reported to the match-referee. As a result, Malik paid the price for ultimately being given a life ban from the gentlemen's game in 2000. ALSO READ | Jonny Bairstow's century keeps England in fight despite Australia's dominance in 4th Ashes Test At present, Warne remains very vocal about the gentlemen's game and often shares his views on various platforms. Currently, the Australian cricket team is involved in Ashes 2021 versus England, at home. After claiming the series 3-0 and retaining the urn, the Pat Cummins-led hosts are now aiming for a series whitewash and are already in the driver's seat in the ongoing fourth and penultimate Test at SCG, Sydney.

Warne makes heads turn with shocking claim, says was offered WHOPPING amount as bribe during PAK tie

India lost the second and penultimate Test versus Dean Elgar-led South Africa by 7 wickets as the threee-match series is now levelled at 1-1 with the final Test set to be held on January 11, at Newlands, Cape Town. Despite the loss, India have plenty of takeaways as they competed hard despite regular captain Virat Kohli warming the bench due to upper back spasm.

In addition, the middle-order stood tall as the likes of under-fire senior pros Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane got some runs (sharing a 111-run stand for the third-wicket during India's second essay) and returning with a half-century each. Hanuma Vihari, playing for injured Kohli, also got runs in both the innings and looked impressive. After the Test, Little Master Sunil Gavaskar has lavished praise on India's No. 3 Pujara and claims that he reminds him of SA great Hashim Amla.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/updated-icc-world-test-cship-points-table-after-dean-elgar-led-south-africa-beat-india-in-jburg-442895">Updated ICC World Test C'ship points table after Dean Elgar-led South Africa beat India in J'burg</a>

“When I look at him, he reminds me of Hashim. Watching Hashim bat, you know there's a sense of calm that everything is under control. The ball could be doing things but there was that sense because even on pitches where the ball was turning, the way Hashim was batting in India, it was almost as if, 'look, nothing's happening', and that's the same thing with Cheteshwar Pujara," said Gavaskar on SuperSport.

Gavaskar further termed that players with Pujara's temperament are "absolutely terrific"&nbsp;for the dressing room.

“It is a great, great blessing to have players of this temperament in your dressing room. (It may not be) necessarily just on the field but it's a huge plus and I think having somebody with Cheteshwar Puajra's temperament in the changing room must be absolutely terrific because in international cricket, there are several moments of tension where people would want to do this or that or the other. When you have somebody who's going to think about it calmly and give you a measured opinion it makes a big difference,” said Gavaskar.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/biggest-challenge-for-rahul-dravid-will-be-ex-selector-reacts-to-indias-jburg-test-defeat-vs-sa-442965">'Biggest challenge for Rahul Dravid will be....' - Ex-selector reacts to India's J'burg Test defeat vs SA</a>

Despite the second Test loss, India still have a chance to win their maiden series on South African soil if they win the decider in Cape Town. The visitors will hope for Kohli's return and also for Pujara to score a daddy hundred and lead the charge with the bat.

India lost the second and penultimate Test versus Dean Elgar-led South Africa by 7 wickets as the threee-match series is now levelled at 1-1 with the final Test set to be held on January 11, at Newlands, Cape Town.

India lost the second and penultimate Test versus Dean Elgar-led South Africa by 7 wickets as the threee-match series is now levelled at 1-1 with the final Test set to be held on January 11, at Newlands, Cape Town. Despite the loss, India have plenty of takeaways as they competed hard despite regular captain Virat Kohli warming the bench due to upper back spasm. In addition, the middle-order stood tall as the likes of under-fire senior pros Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane got some runs (sharing a 111-run stand for the third-wicket during India's second essay) and returning with a half-century each. Hanuma Vihari, playing for injured Kohli, also got runs in both the innings and looked impressive. After the Test, Little Master Sunil Gavaskar has lavished praise on India's No. 3 Pujara and claims that he reminds him of SA great Hashim Amla. ALSO READ | Updated ICC World Test C'ship points table after Dean Elgar-led South Africa beat India in J'burg “When I look at him, he reminds me of Hashim. Watching Hashim bat, you know there's a sense of calm that everything is under control. The ball could be doing things but there was that sense because even on pitches where the ball was turning, the way Hashim was batting in India, it was almost as if, 'look, nothing's happening', and that's the same thing with Cheteshwar Pujara," said Gavaskar on SuperSport. Gavaskar further termed that players with Pujara's temperament are "absolutely terrific" for the dressing room. “It is a great, great blessing to have players of this temperament in your dressing room. (It may not be) necessarily just on the field but it's a huge plus and I think having somebody with Cheteshwar Puajra's temperament in the changing room must be absolutely terrific because in international cricket, there are several moments of tension where people would want to do this or that or the other. When you have somebody who's going to think about it calmly and give you a measured opinion it makes a big difference,” said Gavaskar. ALSO READ | 'Biggest challenge for Rahul Dravid will be....' - Ex-selector reacts to India's J'burg Test defeat vs SA Despite the second Test loss, India still have a chance to win their maiden series on South African soil if they win the decider in Cape Town. The visitors will hope for Kohli's return and also for Pujara to score a daddy hundred and lead the charge with the bat.

Not Virat Kohli or KL Rahul! Sunil Gavaskar names under-fire Indian batter who reminds him of Hashim Amla

KL Rahul-led India fought hard but lost the second and penultimate Test versus South Africa at The Wanderers, Johannesburg on Thursday (January 06). As Day 4 resumed with India needing 8 more wickets whereas Dean Elgar-led Proteas were 122 runs away from their 240-run target, Rahul &amp; Co. managed to take only one more wicket as Elgar's 96 not out propelled the home side to a seven-wicket win.

With this, the series is now levelled at 1-1 with one more Test to go. While India returned with a lot of positives, such as competing hard sans regular captain Virat Kohli, the all-round performance of Shardul Thakur and middle-order getting some runs courtesy Cheteshwar Pujara, Hanuma Vihari and Ajinkya Rahane, the former Indian keeper-batsman and ex-selector Saba Karim feels head coach Rahul Dravid has lots to do to inspire the national team to their maiden Test series win on African soil.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/if-i-want-to-be-harsh-kl-rahul-points-out-where-india-lost-the-plot-after-jburg-test-defeat-vs-sa-442909">'If I want to be harsh....' - KL Rahul points out where India lost the plot after J'burg Test defeat vs SA</a>

Talking on Youtube channel&nbsp;Khelneeti,&nbsp;Karim said, "The biggest challenge for Rahul Dravid will be to eradicate this graph of ups and downs. The main reason for this inconsistency is that, the one Test match that we play, we play with all our energy and intensity but for the next match we lack that very energy and unity."

He added, "If we analyze carefully, we can see that all our players together are a superpower for a particular Test match. But to win a series you much show the same intensity and Test match throughout. We show the intentisy for the entire 15 sessions but the force and preparation we need across the 15 sessions of the next match goes missing and that's the reason behind this graph."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/updated-icc-world-test-cship-points-table-after-dean-elgar-led-south-africa-beat-india-in-jburg-442895">Updated ICC World Test C'ship points table after Dean Elgar-led South Africa beat India in J'burg</a>

Opting to bat first in J'burg, the Kohli-less Indian team managed 202 in the first innings. In reply, SA were bundled out for 229; managing a vital 27-run lead. In their second essay, India made 266 and setup a competitive 240-run target for the hosts before Elgar's heroics took the Proteas past the finish line on a rain-marred Day 4.

KL Rahul-led India fought hard but lost the second and penultimate Test versus South Africa at The Wanderers, Johannesburg on Thursday (January 06). As Day 4 resumed with India needing 8 more wickets whereas Dean Elgar-led Proteas were 122 runs away from their 240-run target, Rahul & Co.

KL Rahul-led India fought hard but lost the second and penultimate Test versus South Africa at The Wanderers, Johannesburg on Thursday (January 06). As Day 4 resumed with India needing 8 more wickets whereas Dean Elgar-led Proteas were 122 runs away from their 240-run target, Rahul & Co. managed to take only one more wicket as Elgar's 96 not out propelled the home side to a seven-wicket win. With this, the series is now levelled at 1-1 with one more Test to go. While India returned with a lot of positives, such as competing hard sans regular captain Virat Kohli, the all-round performance of Shardul Thakur and middle-order getting some runs courtesy Cheteshwar Pujara, Hanuma Vihari and Ajinkya Rahane, the former Indian keeper-batsman and ex-selector Saba Karim feels head coach Rahul Dravid has lots to do to inspire the national team to their maiden Test series win on African soil. ALSO READ | 'If I want to be harsh....' - KL Rahul points out where India lost the plot after J'burg Test defeat vs SA Talking on Youtube channel Khelneeti, Karim said, "The biggest challenge for Rahul Dravid will be to eradicate this graph of ups and downs. The main reason for this inconsistency is that, the one Test match that we play, we play with all our energy and intensity but for the next match we lack that very energy and unity." He added, "If we analyze carefully, we can see that all our players together are a superpower for a particular Test match. But to win a series you much show the same intensity and Test match throughout. We show the intentisy for the entire 15 sessions but the force and preparation we need across the 15 sessions of the next match goes missing and that's the reason behind this graph." ALSO READ | Updated ICC World Test C'ship points table after Dean Elgar-led South Africa beat India in J'burg Opting to bat first in J'burg, the Kohli-less Indian team managed 202 in the first innings. In reply, SA were bundled out for 229; managing a vital 27-run lead. In their second essay, India made 266 and setup a competitive 240-run target for the hosts before Elgar's heroics took the Proteas past the finish line on a rain-marred Day 4.

'Biggest challenge for Rahul Dravid will be....' - Ex-selector reacts to India's J'burg Test defeat vs SA

Novak Djokovic has received support from one of his fiercest critics with Nick Kyrgios criticizing the way the world number one has been treated in Australia and saying authorities must do better for "one of our great champions".

Djokovic, who has won a record nine Australian Open titles, was detained at the Melbourne airport on Wednesday evening and his entry visa, supported by an medical exemption from the country`s vaccination requirements, was revoked. Federal Border Force officials at the airport said Djokovic was unable to justify the grounds for his exemption.

Chasing a men`s record 21st Grand Slam, Djokovic is holed up in immigration detention as his lawyers battle to secure his release to play in the Australian Open and be exempt from strict COVID-19 vaccination requirements. 
Kyrgios, who labelled Djokovic a "tool" after the Serb sought to improve quarantine conditions for players ahead of last year`s Grand Slam, said the situation had been handled poorly.

Read Also |&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/sports/was-short-lived-but-thanks-for-meme-ories-novak-djokovics-australian-open-saga-leads-to-meme-fest-442917">'Was short-lived but thanks for meme-ories': Novak Djokovic's Australian Open saga leads to meme fest&nbsp;</a>

"Look I definitely believe in taking action, I got vaccinated because of others and for my mum`s health, but how we are handling Novak`s situation is bad, really bad," tweeted Kyrgios. 
"Like these memes, headlines, this is one of our great champions but at the end of the day, he is human. Do better." 
American player John Isner said Djokovic had followed all rules and did not deserve to be treated this way.

"What Novak is going through right now is not right," Isner said on Twitter. "There`s no justification for the treatment he`s receiving ... This is such a shame." Former U.S. Open champion Marin Cilic hoped the situation would be quickly resolved and that the whole episode was not good for the sport.

"Definitely it`s not a great picture for tennis," Cilic told reporters in Adelaide on Friday. The Professional Tennis Players Association (PTPA), the breakaway players` body launched by Djokovic in 2020, said in a statement that they were in close contact with him.

"Djokovic has verified his well-being to us," the PTPA said in a statement. "He has also requested that we allow him to personally share the facts of his detainment in his own words, and in his own time."

Djokovic has consistently refused to disclose his vaccination status while publicly criticising mandatory vaccines. Rafa Nadal, who is also in the hunt for a 21st Grand Slam title at Melbourne Park, was among those who pointed out the Serb knew for months he could potentially face problems if he arrived without being vaccinated against COVID-19.

Read Also |&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/sports/novak-djokovic-observes-orthodox-christmas-in-australian-detention-amid-huge-controversy-442897">Novak Djokovic observes Orthodox Christmas in Australian detention amid huge controversy</a>

German tennis great Boris Becker, who coached Djokovic to six majors, urged him to get vaccinated. 
"As his former coach I am so close to Novak Djokovic that I would almost regard him as family -- but like in all families you sometimes have disagreements," Becker wrote in a Daily Mail column.

"And on this occasion I think he is making a big mistake in not getting vaccinated. It is one that threatens what remains of his career and his chance to cement himself as the greatest player of all time." 
Becker was, however, unsure if Djokovic would change his mind.

"The same incredible determination which I saw win so many close matches can be a vulnerability with his stubbornness," Becker added. "Will Novak take that step? I am not sure that he will. 
"He is incredibly strong-willed, with very firm beliefs. If he does not, then in 10 years he will look back on it and realise he made a mistake."

Novak Djokovic has received support from one of his fiercest critics with Nick Kyrgios criticizing the way the world number one has been treated in Australia and saying authorities must do better for "one of our great champions".

Novak Djokovic has received support from one of his fiercest critics with Nick Kyrgios criticizing the way the world number one has been treated in Australia and saying authorities must do better for "one of our great champions". Djokovic, who has won a record nine Australian Open titles, was detained at the Melbourne airport on Wednesday evening and his entry visa, supported by an medical exemption from the country`s vaccination requirements, was revoked. Federal Border Force officials at the airport said Djokovic was unable to justify the grounds for his exemption. Chasing a men`s record 21st Grand Slam, Djokovic is holed up in immigration detention as his lawyers battle to secure his release to play in the Australian Open and be exempt from strict COVID-19 vaccination requirements. Kyrgios, who labelled Djokovic a "tool" after the Serb sought to improve quarantine conditions for players ahead of last year`s Grand Slam, said the situation had been handled poorly. Read Also | 'Was short-lived but thanks for meme-ories': Novak Djokovic's Australian Open saga leads to meme fest "Look I definitely believe in taking action, I got vaccinated because of others and for my mum`s health, but how we are handling Novak`s situation is bad, really bad," tweeted Kyrgios. "Like these memes, headlines, this is one of our great champions but at the end of the day, he is human. Do better." American player John Isner said Djokovic had followed all rules and did not deserve to be treated this way. "What Novak is going through right now is not right," Isner said on Twitter. "There`s no justification for the treatment he`s receiving ... This is such a shame." Former U.S. Open champion Marin Cilic hoped the situation would be quickly resolved and that the whole episode was not good for the sport. "Definitely it`s not a great picture for tennis," Cilic told reporters in Adelaide on Friday. The Professional Tennis Players Association (PTPA), the breakaway players` body launched by Djokovic in 2020, said in a statement that they were in close contact with him. "Djokovic has verified his well-being to us," the PTPA said in a statement. "He has also requested that we allow him to personally share the facts of his detainment in his own words, and in his own time." Djokovic has consistently refused to disclose his vaccination status while publicly criticising mandatory vaccines. Rafa Nadal, who is also in the hunt for a 21st Grand Slam title at Melbourne Park, was among those who pointed out the Serb knew for months he could potentially face problems if he arrived without being vaccinated against COVID-19. Read Also | Novak Djokovic observes Orthodox Christmas in Australian detention amid huge controversy German tennis great Boris Becker, who coached Djokovic to six majors, urged him to get vaccinated. "As his former coach I am so close to Novak Djokovic that I would almost regard him as family -- but like in all families you sometimes have disagreements," Becker wrote in a Daily Mail column. "And on this occasion I think he is making a big mistake in not getting vaccinated. It is one that threatens what remains of his career and his chance to cement himself as the greatest player of all time." Becker was, however, unsure if Djokovic would change his mind. "The same incredible determination which I saw win so many close matches can be a vulnerability with his stubbornness," Becker added. "Will Novak take that step? I am not sure that he will. "He is incredibly strong-willed, with very firm beliefs. If he does not, then in 10 years he will look back on it and realise he made a mistake."

Nick Kyrgios reacts to Novak Djokovic's treatment, says Australia must 'do better'

David Warner had a horrible IPL 2021 edition. Starting the season as the Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) captain, the swashbuckling left-hander struggles for runs -- at an ordinary strike-rate -- whereas the Orange Army's string of losses led to his sacking halfway in the season.

When IPL 14 resumed with the final leg in the UAE, Warner got only a handful of chances before his failures led to his omission. Since then, he never managed to return to the playing XI before being released by the one-time winners ahead of the mega auction for IPL 2022.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/david-warner-doubts-srh-will-do-well-in-ipl-2022-auction-franchise-comes-up-with-savage-response-440775">David Warner doubts SRH will do well in IPL 2022 auction, franchise comes up with savage response</a>

Recalling his SRH omission, Warner told while speaking to Boria Majumdar, "If you are going to drop a captain and then not pick him in the team after what he has done, what message does that send to the young kids in the team? What message does that send to the rest of the group? What hurt me the most is that the other guys are now thinking, ‘oh, this could happen to me."

“At the end of the day, whatever happens, cop it cop it on the chin. If you want to have those conversations, just have them. It’s not hard. Don’t shy away from them. I am not going to bite. I am going to sit here and accept that for what it is because you are not picking me in the team."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2022-entirely-in-mumbai-due-to-covid-19-third-wave-bcci-looking-at-march-25-start-report-442933">IPL 2022 entirely in Mumbai due to Covid-19 third wave? BCCI looking at March 25 start: Report</a>

For the unversed, Warner was a daunting force for the SRH franchise after joining them in 2014. Since 2014, the Aussie opener amassed over 500 runs every season for the franchise before having a forgettable run in IPL 2021 (with only 195 runs in 8 games). He, however, signed off as one of the greats of SRH, with 40 half-centuries and 2 hundreds along with winning the Orange Cap thrice.

Under Warner, SRH also won their only title, so far, in 2016 edition. The Aussie cricketer will now hope to make a fresh start in IPL 2022. He might get picked by one of the two new IPL teams or else will go under the hammer during the forthcoming mega auction.

Warner is the fifth-highest run-getter in IPL history with 5,449 runs. Thus, he will surely make heads turn during the auction.

David Warner had a horrible IPL 2021 edition. Starting the season as the Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) captain, the swashbuckling left-hander struggles for runs -- at an ordinary strike-rate -- whereas the Orange Army's string of losses led to his sacking halfway in the season.

David Warner had a horrible IPL 2021 edition. Starting the season as the Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) captain, the swashbuckling left-hander struggles for runs -- at an ordinary strike-rate -- whereas the Orange Army's string of losses led to his sacking halfway in the season. When IPL 14 resumed with the final leg in the UAE, Warner got only a handful of chances before his failures led to his omission. Since then, he never managed to return to the playing XI before being released by the one-time winners ahead of the mega auction for IPL 2022. ALSO READ | David Warner doubts SRH will do well in IPL 2022 auction, franchise comes up with savage response Recalling his SRH omission, Warner told while speaking to Boria Majumdar, "If you are going to drop a captain and then not pick him in the team after what he has done, what message does that send to the young kids in the team? What message does that send to the rest of the group? What hurt me the most is that the other guys are now thinking, ‘oh, this could happen to me." “At the end of the day, whatever happens, cop it cop it on the chin. If you want to have those conversations, just have them. It’s not hard. Don’t shy away from them. I am not going to bite. I am going to sit here and accept that for what it is because you are not picking me in the team." ALSO READ | IPL 2022 entirely in Mumbai due to Covid-19 third wave? BCCI looking at March 25 start: Report For the unversed, Warner was a daunting force for the SRH franchise after joining them in 2014. Since 2014, the Aussie opener amassed over 500 runs every season for the franchise before having a forgettable run in IPL 2021 (with only 195 runs in 8 games). He, however, signed off as one of the greats of SRH, with 40 half-centuries and 2 hundreds along with winning the Orange Cap thrice. Under Warner, SRH also won their only title, so far, in 2016 edition. The Aussie cricketer will now hope to make a fresh start in IPL 2022. He might get picked by one of the two new IPL teams or else will go under the hammer during the forthcoming mega auction. Warner is the fifth-highest run-getter in IPL history with 5,449 runs. Thus, he will surely make heads turn during the auction.

'What message does that send?' - David Warner recalls his SRH omission, makes glaring remark

An unbeaten century by Jonny Bairstow (103 off 140 balls) on another rain-interrupted day saw England post 258/7 on Day 3 of the fourth Ashes Test, even as Australia strengthened their advantage with the ball, with Pat Cummins and Scott Boland taking two wickets apiece at the Sydney Cricket Ground on Friday.

Middle-order batter Bairstow, playing his second Ashes game in the five-Test series, brought up the tourists` maiden century of the series, though will have work to do on Saturday, batting with the tail to close the 158-run first-innings deficit. Australia had scored 416/8 declared in the first innings.

Despite a delayed start, Australia came out firing with pacer Mitchell Starc bowling Haseeb Hameed (6) in just the fifth over of the first session.

Opener Zak Crawley and Dawid Malan survived the rest of the opening spell shared between Cummins and Starc, but they couldn`t deal with what came next. In his second over of the innings, the hero of the Boxing Day Test, Scott Boland gave the Sydney crowd plenty to cheer about when he pegged Crawley`s off stump, dismissing the England opener for 18.

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Three overs later, the Australian quick continued his remarkable form in his debut Ashes series, removing captain Joe Root for a duck. Root failed to manage Boland`s delivery outside off stump, edging the ball to second slip for an impressive catch from Steve Smith.

With the lunch break in sight, things went from bad to worse for the visitors. Australia all-rounder Cameron Green claimed the scalp of Malan (3), who flicked the ball off his hip to Usman Khawaja at leg slip. Green`s delivery was the last of the first session as England headed into lunch 36/4 with all the work to do.

After 10 overs without scoring a run, including the loss of three wickets, England began their fightback with Ben Stokes and Jonny Bairstow at the crease. It seemed to be Stokes` lucky day as Cummins dropped the all-rounder on nine and he was fortunate not to walk three overs later. Green steamed in to Stokes, clipping his off stump but only for the bails to remain intact.

Read Also |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/if-i-want-to-be-harsh-kl-rahul-points-out-where-india-lost-the-plot-after-jburg-test-defeat-vs-sa-442909">&nbsp;'If I want to be harsh....' - KL Rahul points out where India lost the plot after J'burg Test defeat vs SA</a>

Australia`s misfortune proved costly as the England duo brought up a 50-run partnership before Stokes notched up his 25th Test half-century off 70 balls.

Stokes fell to Nathan Lyon lbw on 66 with the off-spinner firing into the stumps from around the wicket. New batter Jos Buttler suffered a nasty blow to his thumb from Cummins and fell two overs later to the Australian captain for a duck.

Bairstow found a valuable partner in Mark Wood, who hit three sixes and two fours in an entertaining evening knock. Those three sixes were hit off the bowling of Cummins, though it was the home captain who had the last laugh, with Wood edging onto his helmet and into the hands of Nathan Lyon.

Bairstow moved into the nineties, and was accompanied by the resolute Jack Leach (4 not out). He became the first English player to reach triple figures in the series, slashing over the top of the slip cordon for a boundary.

An unbeaten century by Jonny Bairstow (103 off 140 balls) on another rain-interrupted day saw England post 258/7 on Day 3 of the fourth Ashes Test, even as Australia strengthened their advantage with the ball, with Pat Cummins and Scott Boland taking two wickets apiece at the Sydney Cricket Ground on Friday.

An unbeaten century by Jonny Bairstow (103 off 140 balls) on another rain-interrupted day saw England post 258/7 on Day 3 of the fourth Ashes Test, even as Australia strengthened their advantage with the ball, with Pat Cummins and Scott Boland taking two wickets apiece at the Sydney Cricket Ground on Friday. Middle-order batter Bairstow, playing his second Ashes game in the five-Test series, brought up the tourists` maiden century of the series, though will have work to do on Saturday, batting with the tail to close the 158-run first-innings deficit. Australia had scored 416/8 declared in the first innings. Despite a delayed start, Australia came out firing with pacer Mitchell Starc bowling Haseeb Hameed (6) in just the fifth over of the first session. Opener Zak Crawley and Dawid Malan survived the rest of the opening spell shared between Cummins and Starc, but they couldn`t deal with what came next. In his second over of the innings, the hero of the Boxing Day Test, Scott Boland gave the Sydney crowd plenty to cheer about when he pegged Crawley`s off stump, dismissing the England opener for 18. Read Also | Slow over-rate penalty, optional drinks interval: ICC changes T20I playing conditions Three overs later, the Australian quick continued his remarkable form in his debut Ashes series, removing captain Joe Root for a duck. Root failed to manage Boland`s delivery outside off stump, edging the ball to second slip for an impressive catch from Steve Smith. With the lunch break in sight, things went from bad to worse for the visitors. Australia all-rounder Cameron Green claimed the scalp of Malan (3), who flicked the ball off his hip to Usman Khawaja at leg slip. Green`s delivery was the last of the first session as England headed into lunch 36/4 with all the work to do. After 10 overs without scoring a run, including the loss of three wickets, England began their fightback with Ben Stokes and Jonny Bairstow at the crease. It seemed to be Stokes` lucky day as Cummins dropped the all-rounder on nine and he was fortunate not to walk three overs later. Green steamed in to Stokes, clipping his off stump but only for the bails to remain intact. Read Also | 'If I want to be harsh....' - KL Rahul points out where India lost the plot after J'burg Test defeat vs SA Australia`s misfortune proved costly as the England duo brought up a 50-run partnership before Stokes notched up his 25th Test half-century off 70 balls. Stokes fell to Nathan Lyon lbw on 66 with the off-spinner firing into the stumps from around the wicket. New batter Jos Buttler suffered a nasty blow to his thumb from Cummins and fell two overs later to the Australian captain for a duck. Bairstow found a valuable partner in Mark Wood, who hit three sixes and two fours in an entertaining evening knock. Those three sixes were hit off the bowling of Cummins, though it was the home captain who had the last laugh, with Wood edging onto his helmet and into the hands of Nathan Lyon. Bairstow moved into the nineties, and was accompanied by the resolute Jack Leach (4 not out). He became the first English player to reach triple figures in the series, slashing over the top of the slip cordon for a boundary.

Jonny Bairstow's century keeps England in fight despite Australia's dominance in 4th Ashes Test

The last two editions of the Indian Premier League (IPL) have challenged the BCCI to a great extend. The advent of the Covid-19 virus, in early 2020, led to the year's IPL season being postponed before it took place in UAE from mid-September to early November.

IPL 2021 started in India but became the first-ever season to be played in two halves as the second wave of Covid-19 led to the tournament being postponed indefinitely at the halfway stage before the final leg took place in the UAE, in late 2021. Before IPL 2022 kicks off, the Indian cricket board still has quite a few hurdles to cross this time around due to the possible arrival of the third wave of Covid-19. Thus, the BCCI is working on Plan B already to host the 15th edition in India.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-chief-sourav-gangulys-daughter-3-other-family-members-test-positive-for-covid-19-442408">BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly's daughter, 3 other family members test positive for Covid-19</a>

As per a report in&nbsp;Cricbuzz, the BCCI can rely on two routes in front of it. The first is to carry on with the initial plan, i.e. to have all the 10 teams playing the home-away format, where the home games can continue to be held at their respective stadiums. The second option can be to host the entire league in the three venues in Mumbai (the Wankhede, CCI and DY Patil Stadium).

In addition, the Sourav Ganguly-led BCCI is considering to start the 15th edition from March 25, instead of April 02, to bring down the number of double-headers and day games as per the initial plan.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/david-warner-doubts-srh-will-do-well-in-ipl-2022-auction-franchise-comes-up-with-savage-response-440775">David Warner doubts SRH will do well in IPL 2022 auction, franchise comes up with savage response</a>

The IPL 2021 edition saw the MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings (CSK) win the title for the fourth time. Before IPL 2022 starts, BCCI also have to host the mega auction which is likely to be held in mid or late February in Bengaluru. The venue can also be changed depending on the Covid-19 situation in the country.

The last two editions of the Indian Premier League (IPL) have challenged the BCCI to a great extend. The advent of the Covid-19 virus, in early 2020, led to the year's IPL season being postponed before it took place in UAE from mid-September to early November.

The last two editions of the Indian Premier League (IPL) have challenged the BCCI to a great extend. The advent of the Covid-19 virus, in early 2020, led to the year's IPL season being postponed before it took place in UAE from mid-September to early November. IPL 2021 started in India but became the first-ever season to be played in two halves as the second wave of Covid-19 led to the tournament being postponed indefinitely at the halfway stage before the final leg took place in the UAE, in late 2021. Before IPL 2022 kicks off, the Indian cricket board still has quite a few hurdles to cross this time around due to the possible arrival of the third wave of Covid-19. Thus, the BCCI is working on Plan B already to host the 15th edition in India. ALSO READ | BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly's daughter, 3 other family members test positive for Covid-19 As per a report in Cricbuzz, the BCCI can rely on two routes in front of it. The first is to carry on with the initial plan, i.e. to have all the 10 teams playing the home-away format, where the home games can continue to be held at their respective stadiums. The second option can be to host the entire league in the three venues in Mumbai (the Wankhede, CCI and DY Patil Stadium). In addition, the Sourav Ganguly-led BCCI is considering to start the 15th edition from March 25, instead of April 02, to bring down the number of double-headers and day games as per the initial plan. ALSO READ | David Warner doubts SRH will do well in IPL 2022 auction, franchise comes up with savage response The IPL 2021 edition saw the MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings (CSK) win the title for the fourth time. Before IPL 2022 starts, BCCI also have to host the mega auction which is likely to be held in mid or late February in Bengaluru. The venue can also be changed depending on the Covid-19 situation in the country.

IPL 2022 entirely in Mumbai due to Covid-19 third wave? BCCI looking at March 25 start: Report

Tennis world number one Novak Djokovic spent Orthodox Christmas in Australian immigration detention on Friday as his lawyers fight a government decision to remove him from the country that could scupper his shot at a record-breaking 21st Grand Slam.

As the row escalated, officials said two other players who entered the country under the same exemption&nbsp;initially granted to Djokovic were under investigation. Border officials detained Djokovic at Melbourne`s airport when he arrived on Wednesday evening and revoked the visa he had been granted on the basis of a medical exemption from Australia`s strict COVID-19 vaccination requirements.

The initial decision to grant entry to Djokovic was met with outrage in Australia, a country with an adult vaccination rate of more than 90% that is battling its worst surge of coronavirus infections.

Also Read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/corona-fascism-he-is-in-a-dirty-immigration-hotel-with-bugs-djokovics-mother-on-australian-detention-442789">&nbsp;'Corona fascism': He is in a dirty immigration hotel with bugs, Djokovic's mother on Australian detention</a>

The Australian government pushed back on Friday against suggestions by Serbian supporters, including Djokovic`s family, that the star player was effectively a prisoner, stressing he is free to leave the country at any time.

"Mr Djokovic is not being held captive in Australia, he is free to leave at any time that he chooses to do so and Border Force will actually facilitate that," Home Affairs Minister Karen Andrews told reporters.

Djokovic`s lawyers successfully scrambled for urgent legal approval for him to remain in the country until a full court hearing in his case against the federal government on Monday.

The public hearing is expected to reveal more details about the exemption granted to Djokovic and the documentation he provided to immigration officials at the border to support it.

The 34-year-old has not revealed the grounds for the exemption and has consistently refused to disclose his vaccination status, while publicly criticising mandatory vaccines. Vaccines are not mandatory in Australia but they are required for a range of activities.

Also Read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/djokovic-is-the-spartacus-of-the-new-world-that-doesnt-tolerate-injustice-says-world-no-1s-father-442715">&nbsp;Djokovic is the 'Spartacus of the new world' that doesn't tolerate injustice, says World No. 1's father</a>

As he was confined for a second day to his room in the modest Park Hotel, where several Afghan immigration detainees have been held for months, Djokovic`s plight was met with a mixed response from his rivals in elite tennis. 
Former World number one and two-time Australian Open champion Boris Becker said Djokovic was "making a big mistake" with his anti-vaccination stance.

"It is one that threatens what remains of his career and his chance to cement himself as the greatest player of all time," Becker wrote in an opinion piece in The Daily Mail newspaper.

Spanish champion Rafael Nadal told reporters in Melbourne he felt sorry for his rival "but at the same time, he knew the conditions since a lot of months ago." However, American tennis player Tennys Sandgren sent his support. 
"Novak, stay strong, buddy," Sandgren told Reuters. "Hope you get out of there soon." Australia`s Nick Kyrgios said he believed in vaccination "but how we are handling Novak`s situation is bad, really bad."

Djokovic`s wife, Jelena, posted a photo on Instagram of the couple embracing on a beach to mark Orthodox Christmas, saying "the only law that we should all respect across every single border is love and respect for another human being."

His family held an emotional news conference at his restaurant in Belgrade on Thursday before protesting in front of parliament, with his father Srdjan saying "they are stomping all over Novak to stomp all over Serbia." 
Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic accused the Australian government of harassment and persecution, allegations rejected by Canberra.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/atp-cup-daniil-medvedev-takes-champions-russia-into-semi-finals-442703">ATP Cup: Daniil Medvedev takes champions Russia into semi-finals</a>

POLITICAL ROW

Some critics say Prime Minister Scott Morrison is using the issue to boost his pandemic-fighting credentials with an election looming in coming months amid record daily infections, claims the government denies. 
At Monday`s hearing, a judge will seek to unravel the complexities of Australia`s federal system, under which states and territories can issue vaccine exemptions but the federal government controls international borders and can veto those exemptions.

Djokovic had received permission to enter Victoria without a vaccination from the state government, which does not have authority to issue visas to international visitors. While the reason for his medical exemption was not officially released, The Age newspaper reported it was because he had contracted COVID-19 in the past six months. 
The Professional Tennis Players Association, a breakaway players` group launched by Djokovic in 2020, said they were in close contact with him.

"Djokovic has verified his well-being to us," the group said in a statement. "He has also requested that we allow him to personally share the facts of his detainment in his own words, and in his own time."

OTHER EXEMPTIONS

Morrison said Tennis Australia had been advised weeks ago that a recent infection did not meet the criteria for exemption, even though a government task force that provides guidance on such matters had recommended that an infection in the past six months should be sufficient to qualify. 
Tennis Australia and Victoria government officials said Djokovic had received no preferential treatment, adding that he was among "a handful" of approvals for exemptions in an anonymous and independent assessment of 26 applications.

With the tournament kicking off on Jan. 17, Andrews said Australian Border Force was assessing the credentials of two others who entered the country under the same exemption granted to Djokovic.&nbsp; 
A source familiar with the matter told Reuters there was a third participant and exemptions may have been granted to other players or officials who are yet to arrive in Australia. 
Tennis Australia has not commented on the matter since Djokovic was detained.

Tennis world number one Novak Djokovic spent Orthodox Christmas in Australian immigration detention on Friday as his lawyers fight a government decision to remove him from the country that could scupper his shot at a record-breaking 21st Grand Slam.

Tennis world number one Novak Djokovic spent Orthodox Christmas in Australian immigration detention on Friday as his lawyers fight a government decision to remove him from the country that could scupper his shot at a record-breaking 21st Grand Slam. As the row escalated, officials said two other players who entered the country under the same exemption initially granted to Djokovic were under investigation. Border officials detained Djokovic at Melbourne`s airport when he arrived on Wednesday evening and revoked the visa he had been granted on the basis of a medical exemption from Australia`s strict COVID-19 vaccination requirements. The initial decision to grant entry to Djokovic was met with outrage in Australia, a country with an adult vaccination rate of more than 90% that is battling its worst surge of coronavirus infections. Also Read | 'Corona fascism': He is in a dirty immigration hotel with bugs, Djokovic's mother on Australian detention The Australian government pushed back on Friday against suggestions by Serbian supporters, including Djokovic`s family, that the star player was effectively a prisoner, stressing he is free to leave the country at any time. "Mr Djokovic is not being held captive in Australia, he is free to leave at any time that he chooses to do so and Border Force will actually facilitate that," Home Affairs Minister Karen Andrews told reporters. Djokovic`s lawyers successfully scrambled for urgent legal approval for him to remain in the country until a full court hearing in his case against the federal government on Monday. The public hearing is expected to reveal more details about the exemption granted to Djokovic and the documentation he provided to immigration officials at the border to support it. The 34-year-old has not revealed the grounds for the exemption and has consistently refused to disclose his vaccination status, while publicly criticising mandatory vaccines. Vaccines are not mandatory in Australia but they are required for a range of activities. Also Read | Djokovic is the 'Spartacus of the new world' that doesn't tolerate injustice, says World No. 1's father As he was confined for a second day to his room in the modest Park Hotel, where several Afghan immigration detainees have been held for months, Djokovic`s plight was met with a mixed response from his rivals in elite tennis. Former World number one and two-time Australian Open champion Boris Becker said Djokovic was "making a big mistake" with his anti-vaccination stance. "It is one that threatens what remains of his career and his chance to cement himself as the greatest player of all time," Becker wrote in an opinion piece in The Daily Mail newspaper. Spanish champion Rafael Nadal told reporters in Melbourne he felt sorry for his rival "but at the same time, he knew the conditions since a lot of months ago." However, American tennis player Tennys Sandgren sent his support. "Novak, stay strong, buddy," Sandgren told Reuters. "Hope you get out of there soon." Australia`s Nick Kyrgios said he believed in vaccination "but how we are handling Novak`s situation is bad, really bad." Djokovic`s wife, Jelena, posted a photo on Instagram of the couple embracing on a beach to mark Orthodox Christmas, saying "the only law that we should all respect across every single border is love and respect for another human being." His family held an emotional news conference at his restaurant in Belgrade on Thursday before protesting in front of parliament, with his father Srdjan saying "they are stomping all over Novak to stomp all over Serbia." Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic accused the Australian government of harassment and persecution, allegations rejected by Canberra. Also Read | ATP Cup: Daniil Medvedev takes champions Russia into semi-finals POLITICAL ROW Some critics say Prime Minister Scott Morrison is using the issue to boost his pandemic-fighting credentials with an election looming in coming months amid record daily infections, claims the government denies. At Monday`s hearing, a judge will seek to unravel the complexities of Australia`s federal system, under which states and territories can issue vaccine exemptions but the federal government controls international borders and can veto those exemptions. Djokovic had received permission to enter Victoria without a vaccination from the state government, which does not have authority to issue visas to international visitors. While the reason for his medical exemption was not officially released, The Age newspaper reported it was because he had contracted COVID-19 in the past six months. The Professional Tennis Players Association, a breakaway players` group launched by Djokovic in 2020, said they were in close contact with him. "Djokovic has verified his well-being to us," the group said in a statement. "He has also requested that we allow him to personally share the facts of his detainment in his own words, and in his own time." OTHER EXEMPTIONS Morrison said Tennis Australia had been advised weeks ago that a recent infection did not meet the criteria for exemption, even though a government task force that provides guidance on such matters had recommended that an infection in the past six months should be sufficient to qualify. Tennis Australia and Victoria government officials said Djokovic had received no preferential treatment, adding that he was among "a handful" of approvals for exemptions in an anonymous and independent assessment of 26 applications. With the tournament kicking off on Jan. 17, Andrews said Australian Border Force was assessing the credentials of two others who entered the country under the same exemption granted to Djokovic. A source familiar with the matter told Reuters there was a third participant and exemptions may have been granted to other players or officials who are yet to arrive in Australia. Tennis Australia has not commented on the matter since Djokovic was detained.

Novak Djokovic observes Orthodox Christmas in Australian detention amid huge controversy

The second Test between India and South Africa ended on Day 4 at The Wanderers, Johannesburg on Thursday (January 6). The match was set for an epic finish at stumps on Day 3 when India needed 8 more wickets whereas SA were need of 122 more runs -- chasing 240 -- at the iconic stadium. While rain interruption and wet outfield led to the first two sessions being washed out on Day 4, the evening session was enough for the Proteas to produce a result with a seven-wicket win to keep the series alive.

Sans regular captain Virat Kohli, KL Rahul-led India fought very hard before going down in the fourth and penultimate day. Batting first, India only managed 202 on board in the first innings and conceded a vital 27-run lead to the home side. In their second essay, India were dismissed for 266, setting up a 240-run target. Eventually, Elgar's resistance (96 not out) and other vital contributions from the SA batters led to the hosts' series-levelling win.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/updated-icc-world-test-cship-points-table-after-dean-elgar-led-south-africa-beat-india-in-jburg-442895">Updated ICC World Test C'ship points table after Dean Elgar-led South Africa beat India in J'burg</a>

Captaining India for the first time for a full match, in Kohli's absence, Rahul lauded Team India. He mentioned where India lost the plot in a closely-fought contest in J'burg, provided update on Captain Kohli and shared words of praise for Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane. In the post-match presentation, Rahul said, "Every Test match we play, we want to win, we go out there and compete hard, but South Africa played really well and deserved this victory. We were looking to get on the field today, try and do something special, 122 to get, the pitch was playing up and down, we had a good chance, but their batters played really well. If I want to be harsh, the first innings total of 202 was at least 50-60 runs short, we should have scored more and put them under pressure. Shardul (Thakur) has been superb for us, has won us a lot of games, he bowled well in the first innings and gave us a chance today as well. They have been great players for us (on Pujara and Rahane), have always done the job for us over the years, have been under the pump recently, but we believe Pujara and Rahane are our best middle-order players, to go out there, bat in that mindset and play such an innings. It'll give them confidence and make them do even better in the next Test.

"Virat is already feeling better, he's been doing a bit of fielding and think he'll be fine. With Siraj, we need to monitor him in the nets. It's tough to come back immediately from a hamstring issue, but we do have a good bench strength in the form of Umesh and Ishant. We expected this when we came here, every Test will be competitive and challenging, we'll be more hungrier after this disappointing loss. Looking forward to Cape Town and the third Test.," Rahul added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/will-virat-kohli-regain-fitness-for-india-vs-sa-3rd-test-head-coach-rahul-dravid-provides-big-update-442863">Will Virat Kohli regain fitness for India vs SA 3rd Test? Head coach Rahul Dravid provides BIG update</a>

India will like to take a lot of positives from the J'burg Test. The fact that they managed to compete so well with no Kohli in the middle speaks volumes of the team's confidence. Shardul Thakur's all-round performance, vital runs from Pujara and Rahane and Hanuma Vihari will keep India in good stead before the series finale.

India still have a chance to create history by winning their maiden Test series in South Africa during the forthcoming third and final Test, at Newlands Cape Town, on January 11 and also conquer the final frontier (among SENA countries).&nbsp;

The second Test between India and South Africa ended on Day 4 at The Wanderers, Johannesburg on Thursday (January 6). The match was set for an epic finish at stumps on Day 3 when India needed 8 more wickets whereas SA were need of 122 more runs -- chasing 240 -- at the iconic stadium.

The second Test between India and South Africa ended on Day 4 at The Wanderers, Johannesburg on Thursday (January 6). The match was set for an epic finish at stumps on Day 3 when India needed 8 more wickets whereas SA were need of 122 more runs -- chasing 240 -- at the iconic stadium. While rain interruption and wet outfield led to the first two sessions being washed out on Day 4, the evening session was enough for the Proteas to produce a result with a seven-wicket win to keep the series alive. Sans regular captain Virat Kohli, KL Rahul-led India fought very hard before going down in the fourth and penultimate day. Batting first, India only managed 202 on board in the first innings and conceded a vital 27-run lead to the home side. In their second essay, India were dismissed for 266, setting up a 240-run target. Eventually, Elgar's resistance (96 not out) and other vital contributions from the SA batters led to the hosts' series-levelling win. ALSO READ | Updated ICC World Test C'ship points table after Dean Elgar-led South Africa beat India in J'burg Captaining India for the first time for a full match, in Kohli's absence, Rahul lauded Team India. He mentioned where India lost the plot in a closely-fought contest in J'burg, provided update on Captain Kohli and shared words of praise for Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane. In the post-match presentation, Rahul said, "Every Test match we play, we want to win, we go out there and compete hard, but South Africa played really well and deserved this victory. We were looking to get on the field today, try and do something special, 122 to get, the pitch was playing up and down, we had a good chance, but their batters played really well. If I want to be harsh, the first innings total of 202 was at least 50-60 runs short, we should have scored more and put them under pressure. Shardul (Thakur) has been superb for us, has won us a lot of games, he bowled well in the first innings and gave us a chance today as well. They have been great players for us (on Pujara and Rahane), have always done the job for us over the years, have been under the pump recently, but we believe Pujara and Rahane are our best middle-order players, to go out there, bat in that mindset and play such an innings. It'll give them confidence and make them do even better in the next Test. "Virat is already feeling better, he's been doing a bit of fielding and think he'll be fine. With Siraj, we need to monitor him in the nets. It's tough to come back immediately from a hamstring issue, but we do have a good bench strength in the form of Umesh and Ishant. We expected this when we came here, every Test will be competitive and challenging, we'll be more hungrier after this disappointing loss. Looking forward to Cape Town and the third Test.," Rahul added. ALSO READ | Will Virat Kohli regain fitness for India vs SA 3rd Test? Head coach Rahul Dravid provides BIG update India will like to take a lot of positives from the J'burg Test. The fact that they managed to compete so well with no Kohli in the middle speaks volumes of the team's confidence. Shardul Thakur's all-round performance, vital runs from Pujara and Rahane and Hanuma Vihari will keep India in good stead before the series finale. India still have a chance to create history by winning their maiden Test series in South Africa during the forthcoming third and final Test, at Newlands Cape Town, on January 11 and also conquer the final frontier (among SENA countries).

'If I want to be harsh....' - KL Rahul points out where India lost the plot after J'burg Test defeat vs SA

India and South Africa played out an intense second and penultimate Test, at The Wanderers, Johannesburg, where Dean Elgar-led Proteas won the clash by 7 wickets on a rain-marred fourth day on Thursday (January 6). When play resumed, SA resumed from 118-2, in pursuit of 240, chances for a win was bright for both sides, however, skipper Dean Elgar's 96 not out propelled his side to a seven-wicket win as the series got levelled with one match to go.

After the epic encounter, here's a look at the updated ICC World Test championship points table:&nbsp;

<img alt="WTC Points Table after India vs SA 2nd Test" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a75e9dfb-28eb-411f-ab89-ac98d48d9682" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/WTC_0.PNG" />

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dean-elgars-gritty-96-takes-proteas-to-emphatic-7-wicket-win-in-jbrug-test-vs-india-series-levelled-442734">Dean Elgar's gritty 96* takes Proteas to emphatic 7-wicket win in J'brug Test vs India, series levelled</a>

Talking about the J'burg Test, KL Rahul-led India fought hard throughout the course of the second Test sans Virat Kohli -- who was out due to upper back spasm -- despite being bundled out for 202 in the first essay Conceding a 27-run lead, India managed 266 in their second innings to setup a competitive 240-run target for the hosts. Nonetheless, Elgar's resistance proved too hard to break for the Indian bowlers as the series is now levelled at 1-1.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/will-virat-kohli-regain-fitness-for-india-vs-sa-3rd-test-head-coach-rahul-dravid-provides-big-update-442863">Will Virat Kohli regain fitness for India vs SA 3rd Test? Head coach Rahul Dravid provides BIG update</a>

At the post-match presentation, Rahul told the broadcasters, "Every Test match we play, we want to win, we go out there and compete hard, but South Africa played really well and deserved this victory. We were looking to get on the field today, try and do something special, 122 to get, the pitch was playing up and down, we had a good chance, but their batters played really well. If I want to be harsh, the first innings total of 202 was at least 50-60 runs short, we should have scored more and put them under pressure. Shardul (Thakur) has been superb for us, has won us a lot of games, he bowled well in the first innings and gave us a chance today as well. They have been great players for us (on Pujara and Rahane), have always done the job for us over the years, have been under the pump recently, but we believe Pujara and Rahane are our best middle-order players, to go out there, bat in that mindset and play such an innings. It'll give them confidence and make them do even better in the next Test. Virat is already feeling better, he's been doing a bit of fielding and think he'll be fine. With Siraj, we need to monitor him in the nets. It's tough to come back immediately from a hamstring issue, but we do have a good bench strength in the form of Umesh and Ishant. We expected this when we came here, every Test will be competitive and challenging, we'll be more hungrier after this disappointing loss. Looking forward to Cape Town and the third Test.

More changes are expected in the WTC points table in the coming weeks with the third and final Test between both nations, Ashes 2021's penultimate contest in Sydney and Bangladesh-New Zealand Test series finale in the latter's own backyard.

India and South Africa played out an intense second and penultimate Test, at The Wanderers, Johannesburg, where Dean Elgar-led Proteas won the clash by 7 wickets on a rain-marred fourth day on Thursday (January 6).

India and South Africa played out an intense second and penultimate Test, at The Wanderers, Johannesburg, where Dean Elgar-led Proteas won the clash by 7 wickets on a rain-marred fourth day on Thursday (January 6). When play resumed, SA resumed from 118-2, in pursuit of 240, chances for a win was bright for both sides, however, skipper Dean Elgar's 96 not out propelled his side to a seven-wicket win as the series got levelled with one match to go. After the epic encounter, here's a look at the updated ICC World Test championship points table: ALSO READ | Dean Elgar's gritty 96* takes Proteas to emphatic 7-wicket win in J'brug Test vs India, series levelled Talking about the J'burg Test, KL Rahul-led India fought hard throughout the course of the second Test sans Virat Kohli -- who was out due to upper back spasm -- despite being bundled out for 202 in the first essay Conceding a 27-run lead, India managed 266 in their second innings to setup a competitive 240-run target for the hosts. Nonetheless, Elgar's resistance proved too hard to break for the Indian bowlers as the series is now levelled at 1-1. ALSO READ | Will Virat Kohli regain fitness for India vs SA 3rd Test? Head coach Rahul Dravid provides BIG update At the post-match presentation, Rahul told the broadcasters, "Every Test match we play, we want to win, we go out there and compete hard, but South Africa played really well and deserved this victory. We were looking to get on the field today, try and do something special, 122 to get, the pitch was playing up and down, we had a good chance, but their batters played really well. If I want to be harsh, the first innings total of 202 was at least 50-60 runs short, we should have scored more and put them under pressure. Shardul (Thakur) has been superb for us, has won us a lot of games, he bowled well in the first innings and gave us a chance today as well. They have been great players for us (on Pujara and Rahane), have always done the job for us over the years, have been under the pump recently, but we believe Pujara and Rahane are our best middle-order players, to go out there, bat in that mindset and play such an innings. It'll give them confidence and make them do even better in the next Test. Virat is already feeling better, he's been doing a bit of fielding and think he'll be fine. With Siraj, we need to monitor him in the nets. It's tough to come back immediately from a hamstring issue, but we do have a good bench strength in the form of Umesh and Ishant. We expected this when we came here, every Test will be competitive and challenging, we'll be more hungrier after this disappointing loss. Looking forward to Cape Town and the third Test. More changes are expected in the WTC points table in the coming weeks with the third and final Test between both nations, Ashes 2021's penultimate contest in Sydney and Bangladesh-New Zealand Test series finale in the latter's own backyard.

Updated ICC World Test C'ship points table after Dean Elgar-led South Africa beat India in J'burg

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