World number one Ash Barty delighted the Memorial Drive crowd by breezing through to the Adelaide International semi-finals with a comfortable 6-3 6-4 victory over Sofia Kenin on Friday.

Barty, the 2020 Adelaide champion, dominated from the start and showed no signs of the rust on display in her win over Coco Gauff in the previous round of the Australian Open warm-up event.

In their first meeting since Kenin upset Barty in the 2020 Australian Open semi-final, the American struggled with her serve while her top ranked opponent was nearly flawless, producing 17 aces and winning 31 of 32 first serve points. 
Barty notched the crucial break midway through the opening set and carried that momentum through to the second, wrapping up the win in just over an hour without facing a single break point.

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>

"I felt pretty good today. I was able to look after my service games pretty well and it was a lot of fun playing out here and getting more court time," Barty said.

"It`s nice to come out here and be tested from the start and know that you need to bring your very best level. Looking at these last two matches, there`s still work to do." 
Earlier on Friday, seventh seed Elena Rybakina fought back from a set down to prevail 3-6 6-3 6-2 in her quarter-final against American Shelby Rogers.

Rogers, who knocked out sixth seed Maria Sakkari in the previous round of the WTA 500 event, raced 4-1 ahead before closing out a strong opening set but Rybakina got the only break in the second and carried that lead to force a decider.

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>

Rybakina won 90% of her first serve points in the final set and sent down five aces en route to closing out the win in just over two hours. She will face either Japan`s Misaki Doi or Slovenian Kaja Juvan for a place in the final. 
Defending champion Iga Swiatek takes on two-times Grand Slam winner Victoria Azarenka later on Friday.

In the men`s Adelaide ATP 250 event, top seed Gael Monfils of France beat American Tommy Paul 6-4 6-1 to advance to the semi-finals after third seed Marin Cilic rolled past Serbia`s Laslo Djere 6-3 6-2. 
Second seed Karen Khachanov faces Belarusian qualifier Egor Gerasimov while local hope Thanasi Kokkinakis takes on Mikael Ymer of Sweden.

World number one Ash Barty delighted the Memorial Drive crowd by breezing through to the Adelaide International semi-finals with a comfortable 6-3 6-4 victory over Sofia Kenin on Friday.

World number one Ash Barty delighted the Memorial Drive crowd by breezing through to the Adelaide International semi-finals with a comfortable 6-3 6-4 victory over Sofia Kenin on Friday. Barty, the 2020 Adelaide champion, dominated from the start and showed no signs of the rust on display in her win over Coco Gauff in the previous round of the Australian Open warm-up event. In their first meeting since Kenin upset Barty in the 2020 Australian Open semi-final, the American struggled with her serve while her top ranked opponent was nearly flawless, producing 17 aces and winning 31 of 32 first serve points. Barty notched the crucial break midway through the opening set and carried that momentum through to the second, wrapping up the win in just over an hour without facing a single break point. ALSO READ | 'Corona fascism': He is in a dirty immigration hotel with bugs, Djokovic's mother on Australian detention "I felt pretty good today. I was able to look after my service games pretty well and it was a lot of fun playing out here and getting more court time," Barty said. "It`s nice to come out here and be tested from the start and know that you need to bring your very best level. Looking at these last two matches, there`s still work to do." Earlier on Friday, seventh seed Elena Rybakina fought back from a set down to prevail 3-6 6-3 6-2 in her quarter-final against American Shelby Rogers. Rogers, who knocked out sixth seed Maria Sakkari in the previous round of the WTA 500 event, raced 4-1 ahead before closing out a strong opening set but Rybakina got the only break in the second and carried that lead to force a decider. ALSO READ | Djokovic is the 'Spartacus of the new world' that doesn't tolerate injustice, says World No. 1's father Rybakina won 90% of her first serve points in the final set and sent down five aces en route to closing out the win in just over two hours. She will face either Japan`s Misaki Doi or Slovenian Kaja Juvan for a place in the final. Defending champion Iga Swiatek takes on two-times Grand Slam winner Victoria Azarenka later on Friday. In the men`s Adelaide ATP 250 event, top seed Gael Monfils of France beat American Tommy Paul 6-4 6-1 to advance to the semi-finals after third seed Marin Cilic rolled past Serbia`s Laslo Djere 6-3 6-2. Second seed Karen Khachanov faces Belarusian qualifier Egor Gerasimov while local hope Thanasi Kokkinakis takes on Mikael Ymer of Sweden.

Ashleigh Barty thrashes Sofia Kenin 6-3 6-4, storms into Adelaide semis

The second and penultimate Test between India and South Africa, at The Wanderers, Johannesburg, ended on Thursday (January 6) with Dean Elgar-led hosts beating KL Rahul's India by 7 wickets. After rain interruption and wet outfield led to a considerably delayed start to the fourth day's proceedings, Elgar's unbeaten 96 led the charge for his side single-handedly as the home side cruised to an emphatic win to level the series.

At stumps on Day 3, Proteas needed 122 more (in pursuit of 240) whereas India were in search of 8 more wickets to take an unassailable lead in the three-match series. However, Elgar's captain's knock&nbsp;propelled his side to the third-most&nbsp;successful run-chase at the venue (highest successful run-chase for the hosts at The Wanderers).&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dravid-must-have-given-him-a-hearing-gavaskar-on-rishabh-pants-shot-selection-on-day-3-of-jburg-test-442693">Dravid must have given him a hearing: Gavaskar on Rishabh Pant's shot selection on Day 3 of J'burg Test</a>

While many thought that the Indian bowlers would cherish bowling in overcast conditions, on Day 4, on a difficult batting track, they got only one wicket in the form of Rassie van der Dussen (40) before Elgar-Temba Bavuma's unbeaten 68-run stand took the Proteas past the finish line.

With this, the series is interestingly poised at 1-1 with the third and final Test at Newlands, Cape Town on January 11. India will hope to see the return of regular captain Virat Kohli, who missed the second Test due to upper back spasm. The Asian side still remain in contention to win their maiden Test series on South African soil.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/surprising-that-india-is-still-doing-well-despite-virat-kohli-ajinkya-rahane-and-pujaras-barren-run-pathan-442236">Surprising that India is still doing well despite Virat Kohli, Ajinkya Rahane and Pujara's barren run: Pathan</a>

Opting to bat first in the J'burg Test, India had made 202 on the opening day whereas Shardul Thakur's seven-fer restricted the hosts for 229 in reply. Despite trailing by 27 runs, India made a competitive 266 in their second essay for SA to chase 240. However, Elgar showed the way as the other batters rallied around the skipper, showed more determination and will-power to beat India and keep the series alive.&nbsp;

The second and penultimate Test between India and South Africa, at The Wanderers, Johannesburg, ended on Thursday (January 6) with Dean Elgar-led hosts beating KL Rahul's India by 7 wickets.

The second and penultimate Test between India and South Africa, at The Wanderers, Johannesburg, ended on Thursday (January 6) with Dean Elgar-led hosts beating KL Rahul's India by 7 wickets. After rain interruption and wet outfield led to a considerably delayed start to the fourth day's proceedings, Elgar's unbeaten 96 led the charge for his side single-handedly as the home side cruised to an emphatic win to level the series. At stumps on Day 3, Proteas needed 122 more (in pursuit of 240) whereas India were in search of 8 more wickets to take an unassailable lead in the three-match series. However, Elgar's captain's knock propelled his side to the third-most successful run-chase at the venue (highest successful run-chase for the hosts at The Wanderers). ALSO READ | Dravid must have given him a hearing: Gavaskar on Rishabh Pant's shot selection on Day 3 of J'burg Test While many thought that the Indian bowlers would cherish bowling in overcast conditions, on Day 4, on a difficult batting track, they got only one wicket in the form of Rassie van der Dussen (40) before Elgar-Temba Bavuma's unbeaten 68-run stand took the Proteas past the finish line. With this, the series is interestingly poised at 1-1 with the third and final Test at Newlands, Cape Town on January 11. India will hope to see the return of regular captain Virat Kohli, who missed the second Test due to upper back spasm. The Asian side still remain in contention to win their maiden Test series on South African soil. ALSO READ | Surprising that India is still doing well despite Virat Kohli, Ajinkya Rahane and Pujara's barren run: Pathan Opting to bat first in the J'burg Test, India had made 202 on the opening day whereas Shardul Thakur's seven-fer restricted the hosts for 229 in reply. Despite trailing by 27 runs, India made a competitive 266 in their second essay for SA to chase 240. However, Elgar showed the way as the other batters rallied around the skipper, showed more determination and will-power to beat India and keep the series alive.

Dean Elgar's gritty 96* takes Proteas to emphatic 7-wicket win in J'brug Test vs India, series levelled

KL Rahul-led India lost the second and penultimate Test versus South Africa on a rain-marred Day 4 at The Wanderers, Johannesburg on Thursday (January 6). The first two sessions got washed out due to rain break and wet outfield, however, Rahul &amp; Co. lost the encounter in a jiffy when the match resumed with the Proteas needing 122 more runs (in pursuit of 240) and visitors in search of 8 wickets.

While many thought the overcast conditions would favour the bowlers, SA captain Dean Elgar produced a gutsy and unbeaten 96-run knock to lead his troops from the front and take his side to a series-levelling seven-wicket win in J'burg. This became India's first-ever loss at the venue in the purest format. While Rahul &amp; Co. did compete very well and remained in the contest despite being all-out for 202 in the first innings, the visitors missed their regular captain Virat Kohli's presence throughout the Test.

Sharing an update on Kohli -- who missed the second Test due to upper back spasm -- head coach Rahul Dravid said in a virtual press conference, "Virat Kohli should be fine from all accounts, he should be fine. He has had the opportunity to run around a little bit, he has had the opportunity to test it a little bit. Hopefully with a couple of net sessions in Cape Town, he should be good to go. Everything I am hearing and just having a chat with him, he should be good to go in four days time."

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>

When asked about his take on India's batting performance in the series so far, Dravid said: "It has been challenging wickets for both the teams, South Africa's fourth innings was probably their best with the bat. Yes, as a batting unit we can look to seize a few key moments and when we get partnerships, we can look to make them longer. It was challenging in the first innings but we could have gotten 55-60 runs more which could have made a huge difference."

"Certainly, we would like to bat a little better. Maybe the guys who got starts could have converted them into 100s. That was the difference in the first game, we had Rahul scoring century for us and we ended up on the winning side. Dean Elgar scored 96 in this Test and South Africa ended up on the winning side," he added.

So far, India have managed scores of 327, 174, 202 and 266 in the four outings with the willow in the series. Thus, the batters will have to step up and perform if India have to win their maiden Test series on South African soil

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dravid-must-have-given-him-a-hearing-gavaskar-on-rishabh-pants-shot-selection-on-day-3-of-jburg-test-442693">Dravid must have given him a hearing: Gavaskar on Rishabh Pant's shot selection on Day 3 of J'burg Test</a>

For the unversed, the third and final Test will commence on January 11 at Newlands, Cape Town. Ahead of the series finale, the Indian camp is positive of Kohli's full recovery as the 33-year-old missed his first-ever Test since 2017 due to injury concerns.

KL Rahul-led India lost the second and penultimate Test versus South Africa on a rain-marred Day 4 at The Wanderers, Johannesburg on Thursday (January 6). The first two sessions got washed out due to rain break and wet outfield, however, Rahul & Co.

KL Rahul-led India lost the second and penultimate Test versus South Africa on a rain-marred Day 4 at The Wanderers, Johannesburg on Thursday (January 6). The first two sessions got washed out due to rain break and wet outfield, however, Rahul & Co. lost the encounter in a jiffy when the match resumed with the Proteas needing 122 more runs (in pursuit of 240) and visitors in search of 8 wickets. While many thought the overcast conditions would favour the bowlers, SA captain Dean Elgar produced a gutsy and unbeaten 96-run knock to lead his troops from the front and take his side to a series-levelling seven-wicket win in J'burg. This became India's first-ever loss at the venue in the purest format. While Rahul & Co. did compete very well and remained in the contest despite being all-out for 202 in the first innings, the visitors missed their regular captain Virat Kohli's presence throughout the Test. Sharing an update on Kohli -- who missed the second Test due to upper back spasm -- head coach Rahul Dravid said in a virtual press conference, "Virat Kohli should be fine from all accounts, he should be fine. He has had the opportunity to run around a little bit, he has had the opportunity to test it a little bit. Hopefully with a couple of net sessions in Cape Town, he should be good to go. Everything I am hearing and just having a chat with him, he should be good to go in four days time." ALSO READ | Dean Elgar's gritty 96 takes Proteas to emphatic 7-wicket win in J'brug Test vs India, series levelled When asked about his take on India's batting performance in the series so far, Dravid said: "It has been challenging wickets for both the teams, South Africa's fourth innings was probably their best with the bat. Yes, as a batting unit we can look to seize a few key moments and when we get partnerships, we can look to make them longer. It was challenging in the first innings but we could have gotten 55-60 runs more which could have made a huge difference." "Certainly, we would like to bat a little better. Maybe the guys who got starts could have converted them into 100s. That was the difference in the first game, we had Rahul scoring century for us and we ended up on the winning side. Dean Elgar scored 96 in this Test and South Africa ended up on the winning side," he added. So far, India have managed scores of 327, 174, 202 and 266 in the four outings with the willow in the series. Thus, the batters will have to step up and perform if India have to win their maiden Test series on South African soil ALSO READ | Dravid must have given him a hearing: Gavaskar on Rishabh Pant's shot selection on Day 3 of J'burg Test For the unversed, the third and final Test will commence on January 11 at Newlands, Cape Town. Ahead of the series finale, the Indian camp is positive of Kohli's full recovery as the 33-year-old missed his first-ever Test since 2017 due to injury concerns.

Will Virat Kohli regain fitness for India vs SA 3rd Test? Head coach Rahul Dravid provides BIG update

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), on Thursday (January 06), announced a 15-member squad for the Indian eves' 2022 ODI World Cup campaign. For the unversed, the showpiece event is set to take place in New Zealand after the last edition was hosted by England in mid-2017.

The 15-women squad will be lead by the veteran and legendary Mithali Raj whereas experienced pace campaigner Jhulan Goswami will also be a part of the squad. The two stalwarts will be eager to sign off from the highest level by winning India the coveted title for the first time after ending as runners-up twice in the tournament-history. While Harmanpreet Kaur -- who played a whirlwind 175run knock in the 2017 edition's semi-final clash versus Australia&nbsp;-- has been retained as the deputy, Smriti Mandhana will also look to add to the leadership group with her experience.&nbsp;

Youngsters such as Shefali Verman, Taniya Bhatia have been included whereas Sneh Rana -- who ensured Indian eves drew their one-off Test versus England last year --, Poonam Yadav, Rajeshwari Gayakwad are also a part of the squad. Jemimah Rodrigues and Shikha Pandey have been left out following unimpressive performances.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-announces-schedule-for-2022-womens-odi-world-cup-india-to-open-campaign-vs-pakistan-437058">ICC announces schedule for 2022 Women's ODI World Cup, India to open campaign vs Pakistan</a>

India Women's squad for the World Cup 2022:

Mithali Raj (C), Harmanpreet Kaur (VC), Smriti Mandhana, Shafali Verma, Yastika, Deepti, Richa Ghosh (WK), Sneh Rana, Jhulan Goswami, Pooja, Meghna Singh, Renuka Thakur, Taniya Bhatia (WK), Rajeshwari, Poonam Yadav.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/sports-schedules-go-haywire-due-to-omicron-covid-variant-whats-cancelled-whats-postponed-432560#icc-womens-world-cup-qualifier-called-off-432555">Sports schedules go haywire due to Omicron Covid variant: What's cancelled, what's postponed</a>

The showpiece event will kick off on March 4 -- with hosts NZ taking on West Indies -- whereas the final will be held on April 3. Indian eves will open their campaign against arch-rivals Pakistan on March 6. A total of 31 matches will be held in the marquee event, including the knockouts.&nbsp;

In the 2017 WC final, England defeated India by 9 runs to win the title for the fourth time. Which side will end with the trophy this time around? Only time will tell...

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), on Thursday (January 06), announced a 15-member squad for the Indian eves' 2022 ODI World Cup campaign. For the unversed, the showpiece event is set to take place in New Zealand after the last edition was hosted by England in mid-2017.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), on Thursday (January 06), announced a 15-member squad for the Indian eves' 2022 ODI World Cup campaign. For the unversed, the showpiece event is set to take place in New Zealand after the last edition was hosted by England in mid-2017. The 15-women squad will be lead by the veteran and legendary Mithali Raj whereas experienced pace campaigner Jhulan Goswami will also be a part of the squad. The two stalwarts will be eager to sign off from the highest level by winning India the coveted title for the first time after ending as runners-up twice in the tournament-history. While Harmanpreet Kaur -- who played a whirlwind 175run knock in the 2017 edition's semi-final clash versus Australia -- has been retained as the deputy, Smriti Mandhana will also look to add to the leadership group with her experience. Youngsters such as Shefali Verman, Taniya Bhatia have been included whereas Sneh Rana -- who ensured Indian eves drew their one-off Test versus England last year --, Poonam Yadav, Rajeshwari Gayakwad are also a part of the squad. Jemimah Rodrigues and Shikha Pandey have been left out following unimpressive performances. ALSO READ | ICC announces schedule for 2022 Women's ODI World Cup, India to open campaign vs Pakistan India Women's squad for the World Cup 2022: Mithali Raj (C), Harmanpreet Kaur (VC), Smriti Mandhana, Shafali Verma, Yastika, Deepti, Richa Ghosh (WK), Sneh Rana, Jhulan Goswami, Pooja, Meghna Singh, Renuka Thakur, Taniya Bhatia (WK), Rajeshwari, Poonam Yadav. ALSO READ | Sports schedules go haywire due to Omicron Covid variant: What's cancelled, what's postponed The showpiece event will kick off on March 4 -- with hosts NZ taking on West Indies -- whereas the final will be held on April 3. Indian eves will open their campaign against arch-rivals Pakistan on March 6. A total of 31 matches will be held in the marquee event, including the knockouts. In the 2017 WC final, England defeated India by 9 runs to win the title for the fourth time. Which side will end with the trophy this time around? Only time will tell...

Mithali Raj to lead Indian eves in 2022 World Cup in NZ as BCCI announce 15-member squad

Ahead of the Australian Open, World number 1 Novak Djokovic has made a lot of noise. However, the Serbian is in the news due to all the wrong reasons. While his stand on Covid-19 vaccination remains known to all, he had mentioned that he was coming to participate in the first Grand Slam of the year after getting an exemption from the Victorian government with regard to the vaccination.

As per the rules, every player needs to be fully vaccinated to participate in the Aus Open 2022. However, Djokovic was set to participate on grounds of medical exemption to take the jab. Nonetheless, the 34-year-old arrived in Australia on Wednesday (January 5) and found himself in a detention centre after not being allowed to enter the country with his visa being denied by the authorities at the airport.

Djokovic is now in a quarantine hotel in Melbourne after his lawyers secured an agreement for him to remain in the country before the court hearing on his lack of proof of exemption. Thus, the Serbian's father has lashed out at the officials for the unfortunate turn of events.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/feel-sorry-for-him-but-he-rafael-nadal-opines-on-novak-djokovics-australian-open-2022-saga-442633">'Feel sorry for him but he .....': Rafael Nadal opines on Novak Djokovic's Australian Open 2022 saga</a>

"Novak has become the symbol and a leader of the libertarian world, a world of poor and oppressed nations and people. My son has shown that a small and heroic country like Serbia can boast of the world`s all-time best tennis player and athlete," Djokovic`s father Srdjan told the Telegraf website. "They can incarcerate him tonight, shackle him tomorrow, but truth is like water, as it always finds its way. Novak is the Spartacus of the new world that doesn`t tolerate injustice, colonialism and hypocrisy," he said. "Novak has shown you can achieve anything if you have dreams, and he shares these dreams with billions of people who look up to him."

Meanwhile, a concerned mother of Djokovic -- Dijana -- said in a press conference in Belgrade on Thursday, "I spoke with him a couple of hours ago, he was good, we didn’t speak a lot but we spoke for a few minutes. He was trying to sleep, but he couldn’t."

She added, "As a mother, what can I say, you can just imagine how I feel, I feel terrible since yesterday, the last 24 hours. They are keeping him like a prisoner, it’s just not fair, it’s not human. I hope he will stay strong as we are also trying, to give him some energy to keep going. I hope he will win. His accommodation [is] terrible. It’s just some small, immigration hotel, if it is a hotel at all. With bugs, it’s all dirty, the food is terrible."

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>

On the other hand, Djokovic's former mentor Niki Pilic told Reuters that the entire situation is "farcical" and a "disgrace", adding that: "Politics have interfered with sports here as it so often does." 
 
Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison made it clear that the tennis superstar&nbsp;Djokovic would receive no special treatment. In this regard, Pilic told the news agency, "The Australian Prime Minister is trying to please a part of the country`s society and improve his poor political rating by saying `Djokovic can`t compete because I said that unvaccinated athletes will be banned from competing`."

Ahead of the Australian Open, World number 1 Novak Djokovic has made a lot of noise. However, the Serbian is in the news due to all the wrong reasons. While his stand on Covid-19 vaccination remains known to all, he had mentioned that he was coming to participate in the first Grand Slam of the year after getting an exemption from the Victorian government with regard to the vaccination.

Ahead of the Australian Open, World number 1 Novak Djokovic has made a lot of noise. However, the Serbian is in the news due to all the wrong reasons. While his stand on Covid-19 vaccination remains known to all, he had mentioned that he was coming to participate in the first Grand Slam of the year after getting an exemption from the Victorian government with regard to the vaccination. As per the rules, every player needs to be fully vaccinated to participate in the Aus Open 2022. However, Djokovic was set to participate on grounds of medical exemption to take the jab. Nonetheless, the 34-year-old arrived in Australia on Wednesday (January 5) and found himself in a detention centre after not being allowed to enter the country with his visa being denied by the authorities at the airport. Djokovic is now in a quarantine hotel in Melbourne after his lawyers secured an agreement for him to remain in the country before the court hearing on his lack of proof of exemption. Thus, the Serbian's father has lashed out at the officials for the unfortunate turn of events. ALSO READ | 'Feel sorry for him but he .....': Rafael Nadal opines on Novak Djokovic's Australian Open 2022 saga "Novak has become the symbol and a leader of the libertarian world, a world of poor and oppressed nations and people. My son has shown that a small and heroic country like Serbia can boast of the world`s all-time best tennis player and athlete," Djokovic`s father Srdjan told the Telegraf website. "They can incarcerate him tonight, shackle him tomorrow, but truth is like water, as it always finds its way. Novak is the Spartacus of the new world that doesn`t tolerate injustice, colonialism and hypocrisy," he said. "Novak has shown you can achieve anything if you have dreams, and he shares these dreams with billions of people who look up to him." Meanwhile, a concerned mother of Djokovic -- Dijana -- said in a press conference in Belgrade on Thursday, "I spoke with him a couple of hours ago, he was good, we didn’t speak a lot but we spoke for a few minutes. He was trying to sleep, but he couldn’t." She added, "As a mother, what can I say, you can just imagine how I feel, I feel terrible since yesterday, the last 24 hours. They are keeping him like a prisoner, it’s just not fair, it’s not human. I hope he will stay strong as we are also trying, to give him some energy to keep going. I hope he will win. His accommodation [is] terrible. It’s just some small, immigration hotel, if it is a hotel at all. With bugs, it’s all dirty, the food is terrible." ALSO READ | Australia delays Novak Djokovic's deportation: What's next for world no. 1 and his bid for Aus Open title? On the other hand, Djokovic's former mentor Niki Pilic told Reuters that the entire situation is "farcical" and a "disgrace", adding that: "Politics have interfered with sports here as it so often does." Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison made it clear that the tennis superstar Djokovic would receive no special treatment. In this regard, Pilic told the news agency, "The Australian Prime Minister is trying to please a part of the country`s society and improve his poor political rating by saying `Djokovic can`t compete because I said that unvaccinated athletes will be banned from competing`."

Djokovic is the 'Spartacus of the new world' that doesn't tolerate injustice, says World No. 1's father

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola will miss Friday`s FA Cup third-round match away to fourth-tier Swindon Town after testing positive for COVID-19, the Premier League club said on Thursday. City said that Guardiola returned a positive test on Tuesday along with assistant Juanma Lillo.

"Both are now isolating, along with a number of other positive cases within the City first team bubble," City said in a statement, adding that assistant coach Rodolfo Borrell will take charge of the team for Friday`s game. Seven first-team players and 14 backroom staff are isolating for COVID-19 related reasons, the club said. City are top of the Premier League table on 53 points after 21 matches, 10 points above second-placed Chelsea, whom they host in a league match on Jan. 15 after facing Swindon.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/lionel-messi-returns-to-paris-after-testing-negative-for-covid-19-to-resume-training-in-coming-days-442682">Lionel Messi returns to Paris after testing negative for Covid-19; to resume training in coming days</a>

Earlier on Thursday, Burnley said that manager Sean Dyche will miss their FA Cup third-round tie at home to second-tier Huddersfield Town on Saturday after testing positive for COVID-19. Guardiola and Dyche are the latest Premier League managers to test positive in recent weeks after Aston Villa`s Steven Gerrard, Newcastle United`s Eddie Howe, Crystal Palace`s Patrick Vieira, Arsenal`s Mikel Arteta and Liverpool`s Juergen Klopp.

Britain on Wednesday reported 194,747 further cases of COVID-19 and 334 more deaths within 28 days of a positive test, according to official data.

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola will miss Friday`s FA Cup third-round match away to fourth-tier Swindon Town after testing positive for COVID-19, the Premier League club said on Thursday.

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola will miss Friday`s FA Cup third-round match away to fourth-tier Swindon Town after testing positive for COVID-19, the Premier League club said on Thursday. City said that Guardiola returned a positive test on Tuesday along with assistant Juanma Lillo. "Both are now isolating, along with a number of other positive cases within the City first team bubble," City said in a statement, adding that assistant coach Rodolfo Borrell will take charge of the team for Friday`s game. Seven first-team players and 14 backroom staff are isolating for COVID-19 related reasons, the club said. City are top of the Premier League table on 53 points after 21 matches, 10 points above second-placed Chelsea, whom they host in a league match on Jan. 15 after facing Swindon. ALSO READ | Lionel Messi returns to Paris after testing negative for Covid-19; to resume training in coming days Earlier on Thursday, Burnley said that manager Sean Dyche will miss their FA Cup third-round tie at home to second-tier Huddersfield Town on Saturday after testing positive for COVID-19. Guardiola and Dyche are the latest Premier League managers to test positive in recent weeks after Aston Villa`s Steven Gerrard, Newcastle United`s Eddie Howe, Crystal Palace`s Patrick Vieira, Arsenal`s Mikel Arteta and Liverpool`s Juergen Klopp. Britain on Wednesday reported 194,747 further cases of COVID-19 and 334 more deaths within 28 days of a positive test, according to official data.

Pep Guardiola to sit out of Man City's FA Cup clash against Swindon Town after positive COVID test

World number two Daniil Medvedev beat Italian Matteo Berrettini in the singles and then returned to the court to clinch the deciding doubles and fire defending champions Russia into the ATP Cup semi-finals on Thursday. 
Denis Shapovalov and Felix Auger-Aliassime won their respective singles matches in the evening session to power Canada past Germany in Group C into the semi-finals and a Saturday meeting against the Russians. 
Poland will take on Spain in the first semi-final on Friday.

A depleted Russia, who beat Italy in last year`s title match, came into the $10 million tournament without fifth-ranked Andrey Rublev and world number 18 Aslan Karatsev after both tested positive for COVID-19 in the lead-up to the team event. In a winner-takes-all final Group B tie, Italy took the lead through Jannik Sinner`s 7-6(6) 6-3 win over Roman Safiullin but Medvedev staved off a fight back from world number seven and Wimbledon finalist Berrettini to win 6-2 6-7(5) 6-4 and level the tie.

"The first set I was in control and it`s tricky because you think that things will continue to go your way but that`s not the case when you`re up against a top 10 player," U.S. Open champion Medvedev said. All four players returned for the decisive doubles at Ken Rosewall Arena and it was the Russian pair of Medvedev and Safiullin who emerged triumphant, taking a final set super tiebreak 5-7 6-4 10-5.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/feel-sorry-for-him-but-he-rafael-nadal-opines-on-novak-djokovics-australian-open-2022-saga-442633">'Feel sorry for him but he .....': Rafael Nadal opines on Novak Djokovic's Australian Open 2022 saga</a>

This year`s ATP Cup has featured 16 teams, with the four group winners proceeding to the semi-finals. 
Daniel Evans and Jamie Murray rallied to beat Americans Taylor Fritz and John Isner 6-7(3) 7-5 10-8 in the deciding doubles to hand Britain a 2-1 win and keep alive their hopes of winning that group. Evans picked up his third straight singles win at the tournament by taking down big server Isner 6-4 7-6(3). Fritz then forced the tie into a deciding doubles after beating Briton Cameron Norrie 7-6(4) 3-6 6-1.

Britain needed Germany, led by Alexander Zverev, to defeat Canada in the final group tie to help them clinch the last semi-final spot, but it was not to be. After Shapovalov beat Jan-Lennard Struff 7-6(5) 4-6 6-3 in the opening singles to give Canada the lead, 11th-ranked Auger-Aliassime stunned world number three Zverev 6-4 4-6 6-3 to seal the contest.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/want-to-feel-like-every-time-i-step-on-court-im-having-fun-says-osaka-on-return-post-4-month-break-442378">Want to feel like every time I step on court I'm having fun, says Osaka on return post 4-month break</a>

It was Auger-Aliassime`s first career win against a top-five player and will be a timely boost to his confidence with the year`s first Grand Slam starting from Jan. 17 in Melbourne. "It feels good to beat Zverev," Auger-Aliassime said in his on-court interview. "I played a great match. He is a great player and he has beaten me a couple of times before, so I am happy I was able to get the job done today, especially for the team."

World number two Daniil Medvedev beat Italian Matteo Berrettini in the singles and then returned to the court to clinch the deciding doubles and fire defending champions Russia into the ATP Cup semi-finals on Thursday.

World number two Daniil Medvedev beat Italian Matteo Berrettini in the singles and then returned to the court to clinch the deciding doubles and fire defending champions Russia into the ATP Cup semi-finals on Thursday. Denis Shapovalov and Felix Auger-Aliassime won their respective singles matches in the evening session to power Canada past Germany in Group C into the semi-finals and a Saturday meeting against the Russians. Poland will take on Spain in the first semi-final on Friday. A depleted Russia, who beat Italy in last year`s title match, came into the $10 million tournament without fifth-ranked Andrey Rublev and world number 18 Aslan Karatsev after both tested positive for COVID-19 in the lead-up to the team event. In a winner-takes-all final Group B tie, Italy took the lead through Jannik Sinner`s 7-6(6) 6-3 win over Roman Safiullin but Medvedev staved off a fight back from world number seven and Wimbledon finalist Berrettini to win 6-2 6-7(5) 6-4 and level the tie. "The first set I was in control and it`s tricky because you think that things will continue to go your way but that`s not the case when you`re up against a top 10 player," U.S. Open champion Medvedev said. All four players returned for the decisive doubles at Ken Rosewall Arena and it was the Russian pair of Medvedev and Safiullin who emerged triumphant, taking a final set super tiebreak 5-7 6-4 10-5. ALSO READ | 'Feel sorry for him but he .....': Rafael Nadal opines on Novak Djokovic's Australian Open 2022 saga This year`s ATP Cup has featured 16 teams, with the four group winners proceeding to the semi-finals. Daniel Evans and Jamie Murray rallied to beat Americans Taylor Fritz and John Isner 6-7(3) 7-5 10-8 in the deciding doubles to hand Britain a 2-1 win and keep alive their hopes of winning that group. Evans picked up his third straight singles win at the tournament by taking down big server Isner 6-4 7-6(3). Fritz then forced the tie into a deciding doubles after beating Briton Cameron Norrie 7-6(4) 3-6 6-1. Britain needed Germany, led by Alexander Zverev, to defeat Canada in the final group tie to help them clinch the last semi-final spot, but it was not to be. After Shapovalov beat Jan-Lennard Struff 7-6(5) 4-6 6-3 in the opening singles to give Canada the lead, 11th-ranked Auger-Aliassime stunned world number three Zverev 6-4 4-6 6-3 to seal the contest. ALSO READ | Want to feel like every time I step on court I'm having fun, says Osaka on return post 4-month break It was Auger-Aliassime`s first career win against a top-five player and will be a timely boost to his confidence with the year`s first Grand Slam starting from Jan. 17 in Melbourne. "It feels good to beat Zverev," Auger-Aliassime said in his on-court interview. "I played a great match. He is a great player and he has beaten me a couple of times before, so I am happy I was able to get the job done today, especially for the team."

ATP Cup: Daniil Medvedev takes champions Russia into semi-finals

Sunil Gavaskar had lashed out at Rishabh Pant for his poor shot selection on Day 3 of the second and penultimate Test between India and South Africa, at The Wanderers, Johannesburg, on Wednesday (February 05). Coming out to bat after India had lost both their overnight batters -- half-centurions Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane -- in their second essay, Pant had a job in hand to resurrect the innings with Hanuma Vihari and stretch the lead beyond 200.

However, nothing of that sort happened as Pant fell for a three-ball duck. The swashbuckling left-hander danced down the track and took on Kagiso Rabada, however, he failed to connect as he got a thick edge and was caught cleanly by the keeper. Thus, Gavaskar slammed Pant's approach and shot selection while on commentary duties and once again during&nbsp;The Byju's Cricket Live Show on Star Sports..

Gavaskar said, "It's a valid question. This is something one could understand if Rishabh Pant had been batting on 30 and 40. This is something he had not done in Australia. There he applied himself, recognised that there will be hard times at the beginning when you come in to bat and then battling through the hard times, he got set and got to know how the pitch is. And then he played the big shots. That's what he did in Australia."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/its-foolishness-stupidity-and-not-bravery-gambhir-slams-pants-shot-selection-on-day-3-of-jburg-test-442606">It's foolishness, stupidity and not bravery: Gambhir slams Pant's shot selection on Day 3 of J'burg Test</a>

Gavaskar further asserted, "This is something we saw against England, at the start of the series. When England came to India, he was jumping down the pitch and trying to hit James Anderson… he did that so well. But after that he seems to think that is the only way to play. That is not the way to play and I am pretty certain that in the change room, Rahul Dravid would have given him a hearing, or as they say in cricket, Dravid must have given him a 'bamboo'."&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/no-excuses-none-of-that-nonsense-gavaskar-slams-pant-after-his-dismissal-on-day-3-of-jbrug-test-442445">'No excuses, none of that nonsense...' - Gavaskar slams Pant after his dismissal on Day 3 of J'brug Test</a>

Even former Indian opener-turned-commentator Gautam Gambhir slammed Pant after the end of the third day's play and told on Star Sports, "It’s foolishness. Even if he (Rishabh Pant) had got a six off the ball, he shouldn’t have played the shot."

"Unbelievable, you will call that stupidity and not bravery. The way Rahane and Pujara got you back in this Test match, you have given it back to South Africa. This is not Test cricket. There is a very thin line to call yourself brave. If you had hit a six as well with that shot, you would still not have called that an excellent shot. Test cricket is all about handling pressure and you knew that Rabada was bowling his fourth or fifth over," Gambhir added.&nbsp;

Talking about the Day 4 of the second Test, India need 8 more wickets whereas Proteas need 122 more to win in pursuit of 240 at The Wanderers, J'burg. Rain break and wet outfield has washed out the first two sessions of the penultimate day's play.

Sunil Gavaskar had lashed out at Rishabh Pant for his poor shot selection on Day 3 of the second and penultimate Test between India and South Africa, at The Wanderers, Johannesburg, on Wednesday (February 05).

Sunil Gavaskar had lashed out at Rishabh Pant for his poor shot selection on Day 3 of the second and penultimate Test between India and South Africa, at The Wanderers, Johannesburg, on Wednesday (February 05). Coming out to bat after India had lost both their overnight batters -- half-centurions Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane -- in their second essay, Pant had a job in hand to resurrect the innings with Hanuma Vihari and stretch the lead beyond 200. However, nothing of that sort happened as Pant fell for a three-ball duck. The swashbuckling left-hander danced down the track and took on Kagiso Rabada, however, he failed to connect as he got a thick edge and was caught cleanly by the keeper. Thus, Gavaskar slammed Pant's approach and shot selection while on commentary duties and once again during The Byju's Cricket Live Show on Star Sports.. Gavaskar said, "It's a valid question. This is something one could understand if Rishabh Pant had been batting on 30 and 40. This is something he had not done in Australia. There he applied himself, recognised that there will be hard times at the beginning when you come in to bat and then battling through the hard times, he got set and got to know how the pitch is. And then he played the big shots. That's what he did in Australia." ALSO READ | It's foolishness, stupidity and not bravery: Gambhir slams Pant's shot selection on Day 3 of J'burg Test Gavaskar further asserted, "This is something we saw against England, at the start of the series. When England came to India, he was jumping down the pitch and trying to hit James Anderson… he did that so well. But after that he seems to think that is the only way to play. That is not the way to play and I am pretty certain that in the change room, Rahul Dravid would have given him a hearing, or as they say in cricket, Dravid must have given him a 'bamboo'." ALSO READ | 'No excuses, none of that nonsense...' - Gavaskar slams Pant after his dismissal on Day 3 of J'brug Test Even former Indian opener-turned-commentator Gautam Gambhir slammed Pant after the end of the third day's play and told on Star Sports, "It’s foolishness. Even if he (Rishabh Pant) had got a six off the ball, he shouldn’t have played the shot." "Unbelievable, you will call that stupidity and not bravery. The way Rahane and Pujara got you back in this Test match, you have given it back to South Africa. This is not Test cricket. There is a very thin line to call yourself brave. If you had hit a six as well with that shot, you would still not have called that an excellent shot. Test cricket is all about handling pressure and you knew that Rabada was bowling his fourth or fifth over," Gambhir added. Talking about the Day 4 of the second Test, India need 8 more wickets whereas Proteas need 122 more to win in pursuit of 240 at The Wanderers, J'burg. Rain break and wet outfield has washed out the first two sessions of the penultimate day's play.

Dravid must have given him a hearing: Gavaskar on Rishabh Pant's shot selection on Day 3 of J'burg Test

Argentina's captain and Paris Saint Germain's superstar Lionel Messi has tested negative for the Covid-19 infection and returned to Paris. For the unversed, the 34-year-old footballer had tested positive along with three other PSG players (Juan Bernat, Sergio Rico and Nathan Bitumazala) ahead of the club's French Cup face-off against Vannes on January 2.

However, Messi has returned to France from Argentina following his negative test and will also resume training with&nbsp;his PSG squad members in the next few days.&nbsp;<iframe aria-label="Advertisement" data-google-container-id="8" data-load-complete="true" frameborder="0" height="1" id="google_ads_iframe_/1007232/Indiatoday_Teads_1x1_0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" name="google_ads_iframe_/1007232/Indiatoday_Teads_1x1_0" role="region" scrolling="no" srcdoc="" tabindex="0" title="3rd party ad content" width="1"></iframe>He had spent the Christmas break in Argentina with his family members, however,&nbsp;his return to France got&nbsp;delayed due to a positive PCR test shortly after the dawn of the New Year.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/league-cup-arsenal-vs-liverpool-semi-final-first-leg-postponed-due-to-covid-19-revised-dates-out-442486">League Cup: Arsenal vs Liverpool semi-final first leg postponed due to Covid-19, revised dates out</a>

Back then, the club had released an official statement and said, "They are currently in isolation and are subject to the appropriate health protocol."&nbsp;

"Neymar JR will continue his treatment in Brazil until 9 January with members of the Paris Saint-Germain medical and performance staff. His return to training is still expected to be in about 3 weeks," the statement further added.&nbsp;

Messi, the seven-times Ballon d'Or winner, was out of action for PSG's 4-0 victory away to third-tier club Vannes on Monday (January 3) in a French Cup round-of-32 encounter. In his absence, Kylian Mbappe was the star-performer with his hat-trick along with one goal from&nbsp;Presnel Kimpembe.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/argentine-dj-responds-after-being-labelled-murderer-by-fans-over-lionel-messis-positive-covid-19-test-442031">Argentine DJ responds after being labelled 'murderer' by fans over Lionel Messi's positive COVID-19 test</a>

Talking about the Ligue 1 standings, Mauricio Pochettino's team remain atop with&nbsp;46 points after 19 matches.&nbsp;PSG is followed by Nice (13 points behind the table-toppers), Marseille and Rennes in the top four.

Argentina's captain and Paris Saint Germain's superstar Lionel Messi has tested negative for the Covid-19 infection and returned to Paris. For the unversed, the 34-year-old footballer had tested positive along with three other PSG players (Juan Bernat, Sergio Rico and Nathan Bitumazala) ahead of the club's French Cup face-off against Vannes on January 2.

Argentina's captain and Paris Saint Germain's superstar Lionel Messi has tested negative for the Covid-19 infection and returned to Paris. For the unversed, the 34-year-old footballer had tested positive along with three other PSG players (Juan Bernat, Sergio Rico and Nathan Bitumazala) ahead of the club's French Cup face-off against Vannes on January 2. However, Messi has returned to France from Argentina following his negative test and will also resume training with his PSG squad members in the next few days. He had spent the Christmas break in Argentina with his family members, however, his return to France got delayed due to a positive PCR test shortly after the dawn of the New Year. ALSO READ | League Cup: Arsenal vs Liverpool semi-final first leg postponed due to Covid-19, revised dates out Back then, the club had released an official statement and said, "They are currently in isolation and are subject to the appropriate health protocol." "Neymar JR will continue his treatment in Brazil until 9 January with members of the Paris Saint-Germain medical and performance staff. His return to training is still expected to be in about 3 weeks," the statement further added. Messi, the seven-times Ballon d'Or winner, was out of action for PSG's 4-0 victory away to third-tier club Vannes on Monday (January 3) in a French Cup round-of-32 encounter. In his absence, Kylian Mbappe was the star-performer with his hat-trick along with one goal from Presnel Kimpembe. ALSO READ | Argentine DJ responds after being labelled 'murderer' by fans over Lionel Messi's positive COVID-19 test Talking about the Ligue 1 standings, Mauricio Pochettino's team remain atop with 46 points after 19 matches. PSG is followed by Nice (13 points behind the table-toppers), Marseille and Rennes in the top four.

Lionel Messi returns to Paris after testing negative for Covid-19; to resume training in coming days

Former Indian cricketer-turned-commentator Sanjay Manjrekar opened up on Jasprit Bumrah's heated exchange with Marco Jansen during Day 3 of the second and penultimate Test between both sides, at The Wanderers, Johannesburg.&nbsp;

On Wednesday (January 5), Bumrah came out to bat in India's second essay and was greeted with a barrage of short balls by Jansen, SA's fast-bowling all-rounder. While Bumrah tried to connect, he failed to do so on his first attempt and dusted his shoulder after the ball hit him. The short-ball ploy continued from Jansen as Bumrah failed to connect but amid all this, the two gave each other a stare, exchanged some words and stormed in the middle of the pitch as the altercation seemed to have turned ugly for a bit.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-sa-2nd-test-tempers-flare-between-bumrah-and-jansen-during-day-3-of-jburg-contest-watch-442481">Ind vs SA, 2nd Test: Tempers flare between Bumrah and Jansen during Day 3 of J'burg contest - WATCH</a>

Former Indian cricketer-turned-commentator Sanjay Manjrekar has now commented on the entire episode while speaking on&nbsp;ESPNCricinfo.

He said, "This anger thing is interesting. It happened in England as well. I don’t like this side of Bumrah. It’s a side of Bumrah I don’t want to see too much of. I like it when things get really hot, he has a smile on his face, like he usually does."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/keep-your-mouth-shut-pant-tells-rassie-van-der-dussen-as-duos-heated-exchange-caught-on-stump-mic-442454">Keep your mouth shut: Pant tells Rassie van der Dussen as duo's heated exchange caught on stump mic</a>

To the surprise of many, Bumrah hasn't had much success in terms of wickets in the second Test in J'burg. So far, the speedster has taken only one wicket in the match and will hope for more success as the KL Rahul-led visitors need 8 more wickets to win, defending 240, whereas the Proteas are just 122 runs away from victory. Hence, Manjrekar feels Bumrah has not got much purchase from the wicket as he should have and said, "There’s never a problem with Bumrah not having any control. He will always pitch the ball where he wants to. I am a little concerned that nothing much is happening after the ball is pitching where he wants to. I’d like to see the ball rear in, jagging back off the seam or leaving the right-hander."

“The amount of times Shardul Thakur beat the bat tells you that Bumrah is just not getting enough reaction from the pitch for some reason,” he pointed out.

Day 4 of the second Test, on Thursday (January 6), has seen a delayed start due to rain interruption and wet outfield. India will, however, hope for the 28-year-old speedster Bumrah to get back into full form and lead the side to a historic Test series win with regular breakthroughs in the remainder of the J'burg Test.

Former Indian cricketer-turned-commentator Sanjay Manjrekar opened up on Jasprit Bumrah's heated exchange with Marco Jansen during Day 3 of the second and penultimate Test between both sides, at The Wanderers, Johannesburg.

Former Indian cricketer-turned-commentator Sanjay Manjrekar opened up on Jasprit Bumrah's heated exchange with Marco Jansen during Day 3 of the second and penultimate Test between both sides, at The Wanderers, Johannesburg. On Wednesday (January 5), Bumrah came out to bat in India's second essay and was greeted with a barrage of short balls by Jansen, SA's fast-bowling all-rounder. While Bumrah tried to connect, he failed to do so on his first attempt and dusted his shoulder after the ball hit him. The short-ball ploy continued from Jansen as Bumrah failed to connect but amid all this, the two gave each other a stare, exchanged some words and stormed in the middle of the pitch as the altercation seemed to have turned ugly for a bit. ALSO READ | Ind vs SA, 2nd Test: Tempers flare between Bumrah and Jansen during Day 3 of J'burg contest - WATCH Former Indian cricketer-turned-commentator Sanjay Manjrekar has now commented on the entire episode while speaking on ESPNCricinfo. He said, "This anger thing is interesting. It happened in England as well. I don’t like this side of Bumrah. It’s a side of Bumrah I don’t want to see too much of. I like it when things get really hot, he has a smile on his face, like he usually does." ALSO READ | Keep your mouth shut: Pant tells Rassie van der Dussen as duo's heated exchange caught on stump mic To the surprise of many, Bumrah hasn't had much success in terms of wickets in the second Test in J'burg. So far, the speedster has taken only one wicket in the match and will hope for more success as the KL Rahul-led visitors need 8 more wickets to win, defending 240, whereas the Proteas are just 122 runs away from victory. Hence, Manjrekar feels Bumrah has not got much purchase from the wicket as he should have and said, "There’s never a problem with Bumrah not having any control. He will always pitch the ball where he wants to. I am a little concerned that nothing much is happening after the ball is pitching where he wants to. I’d like to see the ball rear in, jagging back off the seam or leaving the right-hander." “The amount of times Shardul Thakur beat the bat tells you that Bumrah is just not getting enough reaction from the pitch for some reason,” he pointed out. Day 4 of the second Test, on Thursday (January 6), has seen a delayed start due to rain interruption and wet outfield. India will, however, hope for the 28-year-old speedster Bumrah to get back into full form and lead the side to a historic Test series win with regular breakthroughs in the remainder of the J'burg Test.

Don't like this side of Jasprit Bumrah: Manjrekar reacts to Indian speedster's heated exchange with Jansen

Usman Khawaja scored a memorable century as Australia gained an upper hand against England on Day 2 of the ongoing fourth Ashes Test here at the Sydney Cricket Ground on Thursday. At stumps, England`s score read 13/0-- trailing by 403 runs. Haseeb Hameed (2*) and Zak Crawley (2*) are currently unbeaten at the crease for the visitors. Trailing by 416, England openers Haseeb Hameed and Zak Crawley ensured that the visitors do not lose any wicket before the close of play on Day 2.

Earlier, resuming the final session at 321/6, Usman Khawaja and Pat Cummins added 10 more runs to the total before Cummins (24) was scalped by Stuart Broad. This was Broad`s fourth wicket in the innings.&nbsp;Mitchell Starc then came out to the middle and along with Khawaja, the duo frustrated the England bowlers. Both batters put on 67 runs for the eighth wicket, and this stand was finally broken by Broad as he bowled Khawaja (137). As a result of this wicket, Broad registered his 19th five-wicket haul in Test cricket. In the end, Australia declared their innings at 416/8. Khawaja was the top scorer for Australia while Broad was the leading wicket-taker for England.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashes-2021-4th-test-tight-england-bowling-restricts-aussies-to-1263-on-rain-marred-opening-day-442416">Ashes 2021, 4th Test: Tight England bowling restricts Aussies to 126/3 on rain-marred opening day</a>

Brief Scores: Australia 416/8d (Usman Khawaja 137, Steve Smith 67; Stuart Broad 5-101); England 13/0 (Haseeb Hameed 2*, Zak Crawley 2*; Mitchell Starc 0-4).

Usman Khawaja scored a memorable century as Australia gained an upper hand against England on Day 2 of the ongoing fourth Ashes Test here at the Sydney Cricket Ground on Thursday.

Usman Khawaja scored a memorable century as Australia gained an upper hand against England on Day 2 of the ongoing fourth Ashes Test here at the Sydney Cricket Ground on Thursday. At stumps, England`s score read 13/0-- trailing by 403 runs. Haseeb Hameed (2*) and Zak Crawley (2*) are currently unbeaten at the crease for the visitors. Trailing by 416, England openers Haseeb Hameed and Zak Crawley ensured that the visitors do not lose any wicket before the close of play on Day 2. Earlier, resuming the final session at 321/6, Usman Khawaja and Pat Cummins added 10 more runs to the total before Cummins (24) was scalped by Stuart Broad. This was Broad`s fourth wicket in the innings. Mitchell Starc then came out to the middle and along with Khawaja, the duo frustrated the England bowlers. Both batters put on 67 runs for the eighth wicket, and this stand was finally broken by Broad as he bowled Khawaja (137). As a result of this wicket, Broad registered his 19th five-wicket haul in Test cricket. In the end, Australia declared their innings at 416/8. Khawaja was the top scorer for Australia while Broad was the leading wicket-taker for England. ALSO READ | Ashes 2021, 4th Test: Tight England bowling restricts Aussies to 126/3 on rain-marred opening day Brief Scores: Australia 416/8d (Usman Khawaja 137, Steve Smith 67; Stuart Broad 5-101); England 13/0 (Haseeb Hameed 2*, Zak Crawley 2*; Mitchell Starc 0-4).

Ashes, 4th Test: Usman Khawaja's memorable ton takes Australia on top at stumps on Day 2

Chelsea seized control of their league cup semi-final against Tottenham Hotspur, beating their London rivals 2-0 in the first leg on Wednesday thanks to an early strike by Kai Havertz and an own goal by Spurs defender Ben Davies. 
The Blues, who had enough chances to put the tie beyond doubt, swamped the visitors from the start as they sought to book their place in their third final under coach Thomas Tuchel who has yet to mark his first anniversary at Stamford Bridge. After a mix-up in the Spurs defence in the fifth minute, Havertz fired an angled shot that was goal-bound before it went in off the foot of Davinson Sanchez.

Half an hour later, the dominant hosts got their second goal, albeit with a slice of luck, when Japhet Tanganga headed away a Hakim Ziyech free kick, only for the ball to rebound into the Spurs net off Davies` shoulder. 
The win, while not as thumping as it could have been, dented the hopes of Spurs, under former Chelsea coach Antonio Conte, of winning a first trophy since lifting the league cup in 2008. In that time, Chelsea have won 12 major trophies including three Premier League and two Champions League titles.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/league-cup-arsenal-vs-liverpool-semi-final-first-leg-postponed-due-to-covid-19-revised-dates-out-442486">League Cup: Arsenal vs Liverpool semi-final first leg postponed due to Covid-19, revised dates out</a>

Tuchel restored record signing Romelu Lukaku to the team having dropped him for Sunday`s 2-2 draw with Liverpool as punishment for the Belgian saying in an interview that he was unhappy with his role at Stamford Bridge. 
Lukaku went close with a first-half header, created a great chance for Ziyech after the break which the Moroccan wasted and hit an injury-time shot straight at Hugo Lloris.

Chelsea also welcomed back Timo Werner after a period out with COVID-19. On as a substitute for Havertz at halftime, the German striker flashed a shot just wide and then failed to chip Lloris when clean through. 
Spurs created a few chances in the second half but the only one that really troubled Chelsea came as late as the 90th minute when Bryan Gil, out wide, cut the ball back to fellow substitute Giovani Lo Celso whose shot was saved by Kepa Arrizabalaga.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/englands-kieran-trippier-could-mark-opening-salvo-in-newcastle-uniteds-escape-bid-442462">England's Kieran Trippier could mark opening salvo in Newcastle United's escape bid</a>

Ziyech said he hoped Chelsea would not rue their missed chances to put the tie beyond the reach of Spurs. 
"We forgot to finish the game, a lot of chances. Hopefully we get the job done there," the Moroccan told Sky Sports. 
The second leg of the semi-final at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium is due to take place on Jan. 12 and the winners will face either Arsenal or Liverpool.

Chelsea seized control of their league cup semi-final against Tottenham Hotspur, beating their London rivals 2-0 in the first leg on Wednesday thanks to an early strike by Kai Havertz and an own goal by Spurs defender Ben Davies.

Chelsea seized control of their league cup semi-final against Tottenham Hotspur, beating their London rivals 2-0 in the first leg on Wednesday thanks to an early strike by Kai Havertz and an own goal by Spurs defender Ben Davies. The Blues, who had enough chances to put the tie beyond doubt, swamped the visitors from the start as they sought to book their place in their third final under coach Thomas Tuchel who has yet to mark his first anniversary at Stamford Bridge. After a mix-up in the Spurs defence in the fifth minute, Havertz fired an angled shot that was goal-bound before it went in off the foot of Davinson Sanchez. Half an hour later, the dominant hosts got their second goal, albeit with a slice of luck, when Japhet Tanganga headed away a Hakim Ziyech free kick, only for the ball to rebound into the Spurs net off Davies` shoulder. The win, while not as thumping as it could have been, dented the hopes of Spurs, under former Chelsea coach Antonio Conte, of winning a first trophy since lifting the league cup in 2008. In that time, Chelsea have won 12 major trophies including three Premier League and two Champions League titles. ALSO READ | League Cup: Arsenal vs Liverpool semi-final first leg postponed due to Covid-19, revised dates out Tuchel restored record signing Romelu Lukaku to the team having dropped him for Sunday`s 2-2 draw with Liverpool as punishment for the Belgian saying in an interview that he was unhappy with his role at Stamford Bridge. Lukaku went close with a first-half header, created a great chance for Ziyech after the break which the Moroccan wasted and hit an injury-time shot straight at Hugo Lloris. Chelsea also welcomed back Timo Werner after a period out with COVID-19. On as a substitute for Havertz at halftime, the German striker flashed a shot just wide and then failed to chip Lloris when clean through. Spurs created a few chances in the second half but the only one that really troubled Chelsea came as late as the 90th minute when Bryan Gil, out wide, cut the ball back to fellow substitute Giovani Lo Celso whose shot was saved by Kepa Arrizabalaga. ALSO READ | England's Kieran Trippier could mark opening salvo in Newcastle United's escape bid Ziyech said he hoped Chelsea would not rue their missed chances to put the tie beyond the reach of Spurs. "We forgot to finish the game, a lot of chances. Hopefully we get the job done there," the Moroccan told Sky Sports. The second leg of the semi-final at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium is due to take place on Jan. 12 and the winners will face either Arsenal or Liverpool.

Chelsea dominate Tottenham Hotspur with 2-0 win in first leg of league cup

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Zee News Rajasthan

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