Devon Conway scored a patient century, while Will Young made a workman-like half century as New Zealand overcame the loss of skipper Tom Latham to score 258 for five on the opening day of the first Test against Bangladesh here on Saturday. 
 
Despite the loss of Latham for one in the fourth over of proceedings, the home side dominated the first two sessions of the day, largely through a partnership between a returning Conway (122) and Young (52) in the first home series Test of the World Championship cycle. 
 
The pair put on 138, before Young was run out by Najmul Hossain Shanto.&nbsp; Looking at the green tinge in the Bay Oval surface, the visiting team skipper Mominul Haque won the toss and elected to send the hosts in. Shoriful Islam struck first after Latham`s bat-pad edge found wicket-keeper Liton Das, though the tourists looked tentative with the ball, as Young and Conway shouldered arms often in the first half an hour. 
 
The pair scored just 14 runs in the first hour of play, with Taskin Ahmed bowling four maidens in his first five overs. The pair moved through the gears in the second hour, with Conway hitting two boundaries in the space of three balls to open the floodgates. 
 
Young added a boundary of his own in the next over, and the pair ticked over the fifty-run partnership in the final half-an-hour of the session. Mominul turned to the spin of Mehidy Hasan Miraz, though the hosts held firm to reach 66/1 by lunch. 
 
Young feathered a delivery from Shoriful behind to Das in the first over after lunch, though the edge was not picked up Bangladesh`s slip cordon, and an appeal was not forthcoming. Replays showed the ball made contact with the bat, and Young made the most of the chance, building on the partnership with Conway. 
 
Conway brought up his half-century with a six, while young reached the milestone with a sweep off Mehidy. The pair brought up their century-partnership in the meantime, as Mominul reflected on his decision to field with regret. 
 
Mominul`s Bangladesh were thrown a lifeline however, after the batting pair broke their own partnership with a poor piece of running. Wanting a quick single, Young was sent back, as Najmul Hossain Shanto`s clean pick-up and throw to Das caught the right-hander just short of his ground.

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The wicket brought Ross Taylor out to bat, in his final Test appearance at the Bay Oval. Off the mark with a flick into the leg-side, Taylor was watchful early in his knock, though made the most of two consecutive short and wide deliveries from Ebadot Hossain, crashing both of them through the off-side for boundaries. 
 
At the other end, Conway crawled to his second Test century. Facing nearly 20 deliveries to move from 93 to 100, he brought up three figures with a pull into the leg side. 
 
Taylor mistimed a drive to Shadman Islam on 31, though it was a rare blip in a strong day for the hosts. Conway continued on his charge with Henry Nicholls, as the pair added another 38. 
 
Mominul brought himself into the attack, and his left-arm orthodox brought success, as Conway tickled an edge down the leg-side to Das on 122. 
 
Tom Blundell and Nicholls looked like they had negotiated the new ball and the last hour of play, though Ebidot Hossain claimed Blundell on the last ball of the day, as the right-hander played onto his stumps. 
 
Brief scores: New Zealand 258/5 in 87.3 overs (Will Young 52, Devon Conway 122, Ross Taylor 31, Henry Nicholls 32 not out; Shoriful Islam 2/53) vs Bangladesh.

Devon Conway scored a patient century, while Will Young made a workman-like half century as New Zealand overcame the loss of skipper Tom Latham to score 258 for five on the opening day of the first Test against Bangladesh here on Saturday.

Devon Conway scored a patient century, while Will Young made a workman-like half century as New Zealand overcame the loss of skipper Tom Latham to score 258 for five on the opening day of the first Test against Bangladesh here on Saturday. Despite the loss of Latham for one in the fourth over of proceedings, the home side dominated the first two sessions of the day, largely through a partnership between a returning Conway (122) and Young (52) in the first home series Test of the World Championship cycle. The pair put on 138, before Young was run out by Najmul Hossain Shanto. Looking at the green tinge in the Bay Oval surface, the visiting team skipper Mominul Haque won the toss and elected to send the hosts in. Shoriful Islam struck first after Latham`s bat-pad edge found wicket-keeper Liton Das, though the tourists looked tentative with the ball, as Young and Conway shouldered arms often in the first half an hour. The pair scored just 14 runs in the first hour of play, with Taskin Ahmed bowling four maidens in his first five overs. The pair moved through the gears in the second hour, with Conway hitting two boundaries in the space of three balls to open the floodgates. Young added a boundary of his own in the next over, and the pair ticked over the fifty-run partnership in the final half-an-hour of the session. Mominul turned to the spin of Mehidy Hasan Miraz, though the hosts held firm to reach 66/1 by lunch. Young feathered a delivery from Shoriful behind to Das in the first over after lunch, though the edge was not picked up Bangladesh`s slip cordon, and an appeal was not forthcoming. Replays showed the ball made contact with the bat, and Young made the most of the chance, building on the partnership with Conway. Conway brought up his half-century with a six, while young reached the milestone with a sweep off Mehidy. The pair brought up their century-partnership in the meantime, as Mominul reflected on his decision to field with regret. Mominul`s Bangladesh were thrown a lifeline however, after the batting pair broke their own partnership with a poor piece of running. Wanting a quick single, Young was sent back, as Najmul Hossain Shanto`s clean pick-up and throw to Das caught the right-hander just short of his ground. ALSO READ | Williamson, Root among 4 nominees for Sir Garfield Sobers Trophy for ICC Player of 2021, no Indian included The wicket brought Ross Taylor out to bat, in his final Test appearance at the Bay Oval. Off the mark with a flick into the leg-side, Taylor was watchful early in his knock, though made the most of two consecutive short and wide deliveries from Ebadot Hossain, crashing both of them through the off-side for boundaries. At the other end, Conway crawled to his second Test century. Facing nearly 20 deliveries to move from 93 to 100, he brought up three figures with a pull into the leg side. Taylor mistimed a drive to Shadman Islam on 31, though it was a rare blip in a strong day for the hosts. Conway continued on his charge with Henry Nicholls, as the pair added another 38. Mominul brought himself into the attack, and his left-arm orthodox brought success, as Conway tickled an edge down the leg-side to Das on 122. Tom Blundell and Nicholls looked like they had negotiated the new ball and the last hour of play, though Ebidot Hossain claimed Blundell on the last ball of the day, as the right-hander played onto his stumps. Brief scores: New Zealand 258/5 in 87.3 overs (Will Young 52, Devon Conway 122, Ross Taylor 31, Henry Nicholls 32 not out; Shoriful Islam 2/53) vs Bangladesh.

NZ vs BAN, 1st Test: Dewon Conway's ton gives Kiwis strong start on Day 1

U.S. Open champion Emma Raducanu has withdrawn from this week`s Australian Open warm-up tournament in Melbourne having just come out of isolation after testing positive for COVID-19, she said on Saturday. 
Raducanu, who became the first qualifier to win a Grand Slam when she triumphed at Flushing Meadows in September, had pulled out of the Mubadala World Tennis Championship exhibition event in Abu Dhabi last month after contracting the virus.

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The 19-year-old was scheduled to headline one of the two women's WTA 250 warm-up tournaments taking place at Melbourne Park -- dubbed the `Melbourne Summer Set` -- from Jan. 4-9. "The timing to compete in the first Melbourne event this week is too soon for me, having just returned from isolation," Raducanu was quoted as saying by the organisers.

The world number 19 is scheduled to compete in the Sydney Classic later this month before making her debut in the Jan. 17-30 Australian Open.

U.S. Open champion Emma Raducanu has withdrawn from this week`s Australian Open warm-up tournament in Melbourne having just come out of isolation after testing positive for COVID-19, she said on Saturday.

U.S. Open champion Emma Raducanu has withdrawn from this week`s Australian Open warm-up tournament in Melbourne having just come out of isolation after testing positive for COVID-19, she said on Saturday. Raducanu, who became the first qualifier to win a Grand Slam when she triumphed at Flushing Meadows in September, had pulled out of the Mubadala World Tennis Championship exhibition event in Abu Dhabi last month after contracting the virus. ALSO READ | French Open finalist Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova tests positive for COVID-19 after arriving in Australia The 19-year-old was scheduled to headline one of the two women's WTA 250 warm-up tournaments taking place at Melbourne Park -- dubbed the `Melbourne Summer Set` -- from Jan. 4-9. "The timing to compete in the first Melbourne event this week is too soon for me, having just returned from isolation," Raducanu was quoted as saying by the organisers. The world number 19 is scheduled to compete in the Sydney Classic later this month before making her debut in the Jan. 17-30 Australian Open.

Teen sensation Emma Raducanu pulls out of Australian Open warm-up event in Melbourne

Team India's 18-man squad for the upcoming South Africa ODIs, in the African nation, was announced on December 31 (Friday), 2021. While the squad announcement was delayed reportedly to examine Rohit Sharma's fitness, the 18-member squad got finally revealed sans limited-overs skipper Rohit.&nbsp;

Rohit has been ruled out due to hamstring injury as his deputy KL Rahul will lead the Men in Blue in the three ODIs against SA, starting on January 19 at Paarl. After the squad announcement, BCCI's All-India Senior Selection Committee's chairman and former player Chetan Sharma attended his first-ever press conference since taking over the top post.

In the PC, Sharma addressed some important topics pertaining in Indian cricket at present, i.e. the ODI captaincy row, opened up on the prospects of having KL Rahul as the future leader and more.

On KL Rahul's rise

Chetan said at the PC, "We are looking to groom KL Rahul and we have confidence in him. He has proved his leadership qualities. KL is the best one who can handle the side. He is an all-format player and he has got good experience of captaincy... this is what all selectors think."

For the unversed, Rahul has captained Punjab Kings (PBKS) in the last two IPL seasons and is touted to be Lucknow franchise's skipper in IPL 2022.

On Ganguly vs Kohli statements

The biggest issue in Indian cricket right now is the contradictory statements made by BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly and former limited-overs captain Kohli post the latter's T20I captaincy resignation and sacking as ODI skipper.

While Ganguly claimed that BCCI had asked Kohli to reconsider his decision to quit as T20I captain, the 33-year-old Kohli denied all such claims in a presser before the SA tour. Hence, Chetan Sharma shared his take on the matter and said, "When meeting started, it was a surprise for everybody. If the World T20 is round the corner and you hear something like this, what will be your reaction? Everyone present in that meeting had told him that he should rethink his decision (to quit T20 captaincy) and we can talk about it after the World Cup. All selectors felt at that time that this can affect us in the World Cup. It was told to Virat for sake of Indian cricket, please continue as the captain and it was told by everybody present in the meeting. The convenors were there, board officials were there. Sabhi ne bola hai (everyone told him). Who won’t tell? If this news comes to you, you are in a shock. But since we had a World T20 to play, we never wanted it to affect team."

"He (Kohli) had his plans and we respect him. If he has taken the decision, and this is what he said in the media also, that from WTC he had been thinking about it... everyone told him to think about it and we thought let’s talk after the World Cup," added the former cricketer.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/packed-home-season-asia-cup-t20-wc-a-glance-at-kohli-rohit-starrer-indias-cricketing-calendar-for-2022-441557">Packed home season, Asia Cup, T20 WC: A glance at Kohli, Rohit-starrer India's cricketing calendar for 2022</a>

On Kohli's sacking as ODI captain

On December 8, BCCI removed Kohli as the ODI skipper, appointing Rohit as the white-ball skipper. This also led to varied responses from all corners, especially as it came only in the form of a tweet from the BCCI and wasn't followed by an official statement or presser. At his presser on December 15, Kohli had admitted that he agreed on the reason given for his sacking, however, revealed that he came to know about the decision only sometime before the official announcement was made.

In this regard, Sharma told, "It was Virat’s decision and nobody actually told him to quit the [T20I] captaincy. But once he quit T20 captaincy, obviously the selectors have to think what our decision is and obviously all selectors think it is one captain for white-ball formats, it becomes easy for selectors to plan things. We informed him regarding this. The 50 overs decision was the selectors’ and T20 captaincy was his decision."

He further asserted, "As soon as selection committee came to the point and discussed it, I immediately called up Virat that afternoon. There was a Test selection coming up. We didn’t want to inform in that selection meeting and that’s why I called him when our meeting was over. And this is what selectors think and there will be one white-ball captain, there were a couple of questions and we had good conversations. He (Kohli) agreed on that. What we discuss I can’t disclose it here and we had a good chat. Most important thing is, Virat is a very important part of Indian cricket. We want him to play for India and keep getting runs, because the team revolves around it."

"When it comes to planning, our thought process was we need one white-ball captain and one red-ball captain. He came at (Test selection) meeting around 5:30 pm and we had informed him before that. It was hard decision for us and we have to take some hard decisions, that’s what we are here for. Same for selection of playing XI. Sometimes those are need of the hour. He is going to be a very important for years to come," the 55-year old added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kl-rahul-named-captain-for-south-africa-odis-as-rohit-sharma-ruled-out-due-to-hamstring-injury-441482">KL Rahul named captain for South Africa ODIs as Rohit Sharma ruled out due to hamstring injury</a>

Chetan Sharma signed off by saying, "The main goal for everybody is the same: to keep India on top. We don’t want controversies. That is the reason we don’t come out. Our job is to select the team, make sure the best guy goes and plays for the country. When these controversies happen, it makes us sad as cricketers. I was joking that Ajaz [Patel] has been dropped by New Zealand after taking ten wickets. Imagine if we had done something similar, what would have happened to us," he said.

At present, India is involved in a three-match Test series versus South Africa, in the rainbow nation. The Kohli-led Test side won the series opener, at Centurion, by 113 runs and are on the cusp of winning their first-ever Test series in the African nation if they win at least one of the remaining two Tests.&nbsp;

The Tests will be followed by three ODIs, which will give Rahul the chance to lead India for the first time in a full series.&nbsp;

Team India's 18-man squad for the upcoming South Africa ODIs, in the African nation, was announced on December 31 (Friday), 2021. While the squad announcement was delayed reportedly to examine Rohit Sharma's fitness, the 18-member squad got finally revealed sans limited-overs skipper Rohit.

Team India's 18-man squad for the upcoming South Africa ODIs, in the African nation, was announced on December 31 (Friday), 2021. While the squad announcement was delayed reportedly to examine Rohit Sharma's fitness, the 18-member squad got finally revealed sans limited-overs skipper Rohit. Rohit has been ruled out due to hamstring injury as his deputy KL Rahul will lead the Men in Blue in the three ODIs against SA, starting on January 19 at Paarl. After the squad announcement, BCCI's All-India Senior Selection Committee's chairman and former player Chetan Sharma attended his first-ever press conference since taking over the top post. In the PC, Sharma addressed some important topics pertaining in Indian cricket at present, i.e. the ODI captaincy row, opened up on the prospects of having KL Rahul as the future leader and more. On KL Rahul's rise Chetan said at the PC, "We are looking to groom KL Rahul and we have confidence in him. He has proved his leadership qualities. KL is the best one who can handle the side. He is an all-format player and he has got good experience of captaincy... this is what all selectors think." For the unversed, Rahul has captained Punjab Kings (PBKS) in the last two IPL seasons and is touted to be Lucknow franchise's skipper in IPL 2022. On Ganguly vs Kohli statements The biggest issue in Indian cricket right now is the contradictory statements made by BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly and former limited-overs captain Kohli post the latter's T20I captaincy resignation and sacking as ODI skipper. While Ganguly claimed that BCCI had asked Kohli to reconsider his decision to quit as T20I captain, the 33-year-old Kohli denied all such claims in a presser before the SA tour. Hence, Chetan Sharma shared his take on the matter and said, "When meeting started, it was a surprise for everybody. If the World T20 is round the corner and you hear something like this, what will be your reaction? Everyone present in that meeting had told him that he should rethink his decision (to quit T20 captaincy) and we can talk about it after the World Cup. All selectors felt at that time that this can affect us in the World Cup. It was told to Virat for sake of Indian cricket, please continue as the captain and it was told by everybody present in the meeting. The convenors were there, board officials were there. Sabhi ne bola hai (everyone told him). Who won’t tell? If this news comes to you, you are in a shock. But since we had a World T20 to play, we never wanted it to affect team." "He (Kohli) had his plans and we respect him. If he has taken the decision, and this is what he said in the media also, that from WTC he had been thinking about it... everyone told him to think about it and we thought let’s talk after the World Cup," added the former cricketer. ALSO READ | Packed home season, Asia Cup, T20 WC: A glance at Kohli, Rohit-starrer India's cricketing calendar for 2022 On Kohli's sacking as ODI captain On December 8, BCCI removed Kohli as the ODI skipper, appointing Rohit as the white-ball skipper. This also led to varied responses from all corners, especially as it came only in the form of a tweet from the BCCI and wasn't followed by an official statement or presser. At his presser on December 15, Kohli had admitted that he agreed on the reason given for his sacking, however, revealed that he came to know about the decision only sometime before the official announcement was made. In this regard, Sharma told, "It was Virat’s decision and nobody actually told him to quit the [T20I] captaincy. But once he quit T20 captaincy, obviously the selectors have to think what our decision is and obviously all selectors think it is one captain for white-ball formats, it becomes easy for selectors to plan things. We informed him regarding this. The 50 overs decision was the selectors’ and T20 captaincy was his decision." He further asserted, "As soon as selection committee came to the point and discussed it, I immediately called up Virat that afternoon. There was a Test selection coming up. We didn’t want to inform in that selection meeting and that’s why I called him when our meeting was over. And this is what selectors think and there will be one white-ball captain, there were a couple of questions and we had good conversations. He (Kohli) agreed on that. What we discuss I can’t disclose it here and we had a good chat. Most important thing is, Virat is a very important part of Indian cricket. We want him to play for India and keep getting runs, because the team revolves around it." "When it comes to planning, our thought process was we need one white-ball captain and one red-ball captain. He came at (Test selection) meeting around 5:30 pm and we had informed him before that. It was hard decision for us and we have to take some hard decisions, that’s what we are here for. Same for selection of playing XI. Sometimes those are need of the hour. He is going to be a very important for years to come," the 55-year old added. ALSO READ | KL Rahul named captain for South Africa ODIs as Rohit Sharma ruled out due to hamstring injury Chetan Sharma signed off by saying, "The main goal for everybody is the same: to keep India on top. We don’t want controversies. That is the reason we don’t come out. Our job is to select the team, make sure the best guy goes and plays for the country. When these controversies happen, it makes us sad as cricketers. I was joking that Ajaz [Patel] has been dropped by New Zealand after taking ten wickets. Imagine if we had done something similar, what would have happened to us," he said. At present, India is involved in a three-match Test series versus South Africa, in the rainbow nation. The Kohli-led Test side won the series opener, at Centurion, by 113 runs and are on the cusp of winning their first-ever Test series in the African nation if they win at least one of the remaining two Tests. The Tests will be followed by three ODIs, which will give Rahul the chance to lead India for the first time in a full series.

ODI captaincy row, KL Rahul as future captain: Major talking points from Chetan Sharma's press conference

R Ashwin is currently involved in India's three-match Test series versus South Africa, in the African nation. The 35-year-old was part of India's historic 113-run win over the Dean Elgar-led Proteas at SuperSport Park, Centurion. The off-spinner attained two wickets in the match and will hope to contribute more in the remaining two Tests and lead India to their first-ever series win in the rainbow nation.

Recently, the spin-bowling all-rounder Ashwin recalled a time when people had written him off completely. In 2021, Ashwin made a comeback in the limited-overs setup after four years when he was part of the T20 World Cup and New Zealand T20Is at home. On the last day of 2021, he was also named in India's 18-man squad for the Proteas ODIs. While the offie is now back to featuring in all forms of the game for Team India, he had to struggle for a long time between 2017 to mid-2021; only playing the Tests. Thus, Ashwin recalled the time when criticism from people&nbsp; -- who lost faith in the spinner and wrote him off -- affected him.&nbsp;

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Speaking on Backstage with Boria, Ashwin said, "As a sportsman, you are engulfed by criticism. You want to overcome that. A lot of people wrote me off. I used to walk into club games in Chennai and I used to put in the hard yards. And I would hear murmurs about people saying ‘this guy is coming a`nd playing because his international career is done, he is finished’. I used to keep hearing these things. Sometimes it’s easy to laugh off, sometimes it hurts.

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"I used to wake up during the pandemic every single day telling myself - it doesn’t matter what people think, but this particular cricketer, this particular character has, has something left. And, this is not how I want to leave. It used to be a hard battle. I used to train twice in a day. I reviewed over 3-10 dietitians. I am definitely eating better, training better and more positive inside my head," Ashwin further said.

Ashwin ended 2021 being the highest-wicket taker in the purest format (54 scalps). Being back in the reckoning in the limited-overs setup, he will now hope to perform in a similar stead in all forms of the game for Team India in 2022.

R Ashwin is currently involved in India's three-match Test series versus South Africa, in the African nation. The 35-year-old was part of India's historic 113-run win over the Dean Elgar-led Proteas at SuperSport Park, Centurion.

R Ashwin is currently involved in India's three-match Test series versus South Africa, in the African nation. The 35-year-old was part of India's historic 113-run win over the Dean Elgar-led Proteas at SuperSport Park, Centurion. The off-spinner attained two wickets in the match and will hope to contribute more in the remaining two Tests and lead India to their first-ever series win in the rainbow nation. Recently, the spin-bowling all-rounder Ashwin recalled a time when people had written him off completely. In 2021, Ashwin made a comeback in the limited-overs setup after four years when he was part of the T20 World Cup and New Zealand T20Is at home. On the last day of 2021, he was also named in India's 18-man squad for the Proteas ODIs. While the offie is now back to featuring in all forms of the game for Team India, he had to struggle for a long time between 2017 to mid-2021; only playing the Tests. Thus, Ashwin recalled the time when criticism from people -- who lost faith in the spinner and wrote him off -- affected him. ALSO READ | We were timid, it showed in our game: Ravi Shastri decodes Team India's 2021 T20 World Cup debacle Speaking on Backstage with Boria, Ashwin said, "As a sportsman, you are engulfed by criticism. You want to overcome that. A lot of people wrote me off. I used to walk into club games in Chennai and I used to put in the hard yards. And I would hear murmurs about people saying ‘this guy is coming a`nd playing because his international career is done, he is finished’. I used to keep hearing these things. Sometimes it’s easy to laugh off, sometimes it hurts. ALSO READ | Packed home season, Asia Cup, T20 WC: A glance at Kohli, Rohit-starrer India's cricketing calendar for 2022 "I used to wake up during the pandemic every single day telling myself - it doesn’t matter what people think, but this particular cricketer, this particular character has, has something left. And, this is not how I want to leave. It used to be a hard battle. I used to train twice in a day. I reviewed over 3-10 dietitians. I am definitely eating better, training better and more positive inside my head," Ashwin further said. Ashwin ended 2021 being the highest-wicket taker in the purest format (54 scalps). Being back in the reckoning in the limited-overs setup, he will now hope to perform in a similar stead in all forms of the game for Team India in 2022.

Kept hearing murmurs about people saying 'this guy is finished', recalls R Ashwin

The year 2021 ended on an emphatic note for Team India, with the Virat Kohli-led Test side achieving their first-ever win at Centurion; which was South Africa's fortress since 2014. India won the three-match Test series opener versus the Proteas, at SuperSpork Park, Centurion, and will aim to win their maiden series on African soil in early 2022.&nbsp;

Like every other year, 2022 is also a hectic one in the offing for Team India. The Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma-starrer national side have a plethora of series at home, along with the Asia Cup and T20 World Cup. Here's a quick look at India's cricketing calendar for 2022:

Ind vs SA remaining Tests, 3 ODIs

Team India will play the Proteas in the remaining two Tests and move to the three ODIs in the African nation, starting from January 19 at Paarl.&nbsp;

India to host WI, SL

After the SA tour, India will play host to West Indies for a limited-overs series, comprising three ODIs and T20Is each from early to mid-February. It will be followed by a two-match Test series versus the Islanders and three ODIs as well.&nbsp;

The two Tests are scheduled to be held on February 25 and March 5, respectively. The ODIs versus the Lankans will be played on March 13, 15 and 18.&nbsp;

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Indian Premier League (IPL 15)

The BCCI will then host the 15th edition of the cash-rich league, which will comprise two new teams in the form of Lucknow and Ahmedabad. The league is expected to start in early April and conclude by May end.&nbsp;

India to host SA in five T20Is

As a dress rehearsal for the T20 WC, Rohit-led India will host five T20Is against Temba Bavuma-led Proteas, from June 9-17.&nbsp;

India tour of England

India will travel to the United Kingdom for the last Test of the incomplete five-match series from 2021. It will be followed by three T20Is and equal number of ODIs. The fifth Test will be held from July 1-5&nbsp;whereas the limited-overs leg will commence on July 7 and last till July 17.

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West Indies, Asia Cup in Sri Lanka

After the UK trip, India will remain on the road and travel to the Caribbean island from three T20Is and equal number of ODIs, from July to August. In September, Rohit &amp; Co. will go to the island nation for the T20 Asia Cup, serving as a perfect platform to finalise their squad for the World Cup. An India-Pakistan clash is also guaranteed in the showpiece event.

T20 WC

The biggest event of the year, in men's cricket, will be the T20 WC which is set to be held in Australia. Rohit &amp; Co. will arrive in Australia after the Asia Cup in Sri Lanka and aim to end their ICC-title drought. The tournament will take place from October 16&nbsp;to November 13.

India to tour Bangla Tigers

The year will end for the senior men's cricket team with a tour of Bangladesh, comprising two Tests (part of WTC cycle) and three ODIs. The dates, however, are yet to be revealed.

Hence, India have quite a few series at home in the first half of the year whereas they will be on the road for majority of the second-half of 2022.&nbsp;

The year 2021 ended on an emphatic note for Team India, with the Virat Kohli-led Test side achieving their first-ever win at Centurion; which was South Africa's fortress since 2014.

The year 2021 ended on an emphatic note for Team India, with the Virat Kohli-led Test side achieving their first-ever win at Centurion; which was South Africa's fortress since 2014. India won the three-match Test series opener versus the Proteas, at SuperSpork Park, Centurion, and will aim to win their maiden series on African soil in early 2022. Like every other year, 2022 is also a hectic one in the offing for Team India. The Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma-starrer national side have a plethora of series at home, along with the Asia Cup and T20 World Cup. Here's a quick look at India's cricketing calendar for 2022: Ind vs SA remaining Tests, 3 ODIs Team India will play the Proteas in the remaining two Tests and move to the three ODIs in the African nation, starting from January 19 at Paarl. India to host WI, SL After the SA tour, India will play host to West Indies for a limited-overs series, comprising three ODIs and T20Is each from early to mid-February. It will be followed by a two-match Test series versus the Islanders and three ODIs as well. The two Tests are scheduled to be held on February 25 and March 5, respectively. The ODIs versus the Lankans will be played on March 13, 15 and 18. ALSO READ | Everyone told Virat Kohli to reconsider stepping down as T20 captain, says chief selector Chetan Sharma Indian Premier League (IPL 15) The BCCI will then host the 15th edition of the cash-rich league, which will comprise two new teams in the form of Lucknow and Ahmedabad. The league is expected to start in early April and conclude by May end. India to host SA in five T20Is As a dress rehearsal for the T20 WC, Rohit-led India will host five T20Is against Temba Bavuma-led Proteas, from June 9-17. India tour of England India will travel to the United Kingdom for the last Test of the incomplete five-match series from 2021. It will be followed by three T20Is and equal number of ODIs. The fifth Test will be held from July 1-5 whereas the limited-overs leg will commence on July 7 and last till July 17. ALSO READ | KL Rahul named captain for South Africa ODIs as Rohit Sharma ruled out due to hamstring injury West Indies, Asia Cup in Sri Lanka After the UK trip, India will remain on the road and travel to the Caribbean island from three T20Is and equal number of ODIs, from July to August. In September, Rohit & Co. will go to the island nation for the T20 Asia Cup, serving as a perfect platform to finalise their squad for the World Cup. An India-Pakistan clash is also guaranteed in the showpiece event. T20 WC The biggest event of the year, in men's cricket, will be the T20 WC which is set to be held in Australia. Rohit & Co. will arrive in Australia after the Asia Cup in Sri Lanka and aim to end their ICC-title drought. The tournament will take place from October 16 to November 13. India to tour Bangla Tigers The year will end for the senior men's cricket team with a tour of Bangladesh, comprising two Tests (part of WTC cycle) and three ODIs. The dates, however, are yet to be revealed. Hence, India have quite a few series at home in the first half of the year whereas they will be on the road for majority of the second-half of 2022.

Packed home season, Asia Cup, T20 WC: A glance at Kohli, Rohit-starrer India's cricketing calendar for 2022

A large brass statue of Cristiano Ronaldo which was unveiled at a park in Goa`s beach village of Calangute, has created a stir in the coastal state over the footballer`s Portuguese linkage. 
 
The statue, which was inaugurated on Tuesday, with the aim of inspiring youngsters to emulate the maestro, triggered black flag protests at the site, with protesters accusing the state authorities of neglecting local football legends like Arjuna award winner and former India football team captain Bruno Coutinho, who also hails from Calangute. 
 
However, according to local BJP MLA and Ports Minister, Michael Lobo, the plan to install the 410-415 kg brass statue, depicting the living legend in action, has been in the offing for the last two years. 
 
"This is the first statue of Cristiano Ronaldo in India. This is nothing but to inspire our youth. If you want to take football to the another level, then this is what will inspire boys and girls by looking at him, taking selfies with him. 
 
"We require good infrastructure for our boys and girls to go there and play. Statue is only to inspire. We want good grounds from the government, good infrastructure and good coaches," he said.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-cristiano-ronaldo-scott-mctominay-star-in-manchester-uniteds-3-1-win-over-burnley-441404">Premier League: Cristiano Ronaldo, Scott Mctominay star in Manchester United's 3-1 win over Burnley</a>

Lobo added that despite India`s vast population, the country`s football team could not beat even the small nations and that players who have brought laurels for Goa and India should be given proper coaching facilities in every Goan village. 
 
"People who come to the Cristiano Ronaldo park will be inspired to become like him and play for Goa and India... We want to inspire Calangute, Candolim and the coastal belt villages first, then the rest of India," he said. 
 
Meanwhile, owner of popular nightclub, Titos in Calangute, Ricardo D`Souza, has said that statues of local football icons like Bruno Coutinho and Samir Naik should have been installed instead. 
 
"Very disappointed to hear of the statue of Ronaldo being erected. Learn to take pride in our own icons like Samir Naik and Bruno Coutinho," he said. 
 
At the unveiling ceremony, some right-wing demonstrators also alleged that erecting a statue of Ronaldo, a Portuguese national, was an insult to Goa, especially when the state is celebrating its 60th anniversary of liberation from Portuguese rule which spanned 451 years.

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"To erect a statue of a Portuguese footballer this year is sacrilegious. We condemn this. There are many freedom fighters in Goa who have been insulted. If Lobo wanted to erect `footballers statues, he should have erected Bruno Coutinho`s statue," right-wing activist Guru Shirodkar said. 
 
Reacting to his allegations, Lobo said: "There are few people who are opposing this. Looks like they hate football. Football belongs to everyone. It is not divided by religion or caste but still they are opposing with black flags. Their minds are black. One cannot argue with people who have black minds."

A large brass statue of Cristiano Ronaldo which was unveiled at a park in Goa`s beach village of Calangute, has created a stir in the coastal state over the footballer`s Portuguese linkage.

A large brass statue of Cristiano Ronaldo which was unveiled at a park in Goa`s beach village of Calangute, has created a stir in the coastal state over the footballer`s Portuguese linkage. The statue, which was inaugurated on Tuesday, with the aim of inspiring youngsters to emulate the maestro, triggered black flag protests at the site, with protesters accusing the state authorities of neglecting local football legends like Arjuna award winner and former India football team captain Bruno Coutinho, who also hails from Calangute. However, according to local BJP MLA and Ports Minister, Michael Lobo, the plan to install the 410-415 kg brass statue, depicting the living legend in action, has been in the offing for the last two years. "This is the first statue of Cristiano Ronaldo in India. This is nothing but to inspire our youth. If you want to take football to the another level, then this is what will inspire boys and girls by looking at him, taking selfies with him. "We require good infrastructure for our boys and girls to go there and play. Statue is only to inspire. We want good grounds from the government, good infrastructure and good coaches," he said. ALSO READ | Premier League: Cristiano Ronaldo, Scott Mctominay star in Manchester United's 3-1 win over Burnley Lobo added that despite India`s vast population, the country`s football team could not beat even the small nations and that players who have brought laurels for Goa and India should be given proper coaching facilities in every Goan village. "People who come to the Cristiano Ronaldo park will be inspired to become like him and play for Goa and India... We want to inspire Calangute, Candolim and the coastal belt villages first, then the rest of India," he said. Meanwhile, owner of popular nightclub, Titos in Calangute, Ricardo D`Souza, has said that statues of local football icons like Bruno Coutinho and Samir Naik should have been installed instead. "Very disappointed to hear of the statue of Ronaldo being erected. Learn to take pride in our own icons like Samir Naik and Bruno Coutinho," he said. At the unveiling ceremony, some right-wing demonstrators also alleged that erecting a statue of Ronaldo, a Portuguese national, was an insult to Goa, especially when the state is celebrating its 60th anniversary of liberation from Portuguese rule which spanned 451 years. ALSO READ | Premier League: Newcastle game against Southampton postponed amid injuries and COVID-19 cases "To erect a statue of a Portuguese footballer this year is sacrilegious. We condemn this. There are many freedom fighters in Goa who have been insulted. If Lobo wanted to erect `footballers statues, he should have erected Bruno Coutinho`s statue," right-wing activist Guru Shirodkar said. Reacting to his allegations, Lobo said: "There are few people who are opposing this. Looks like they hate football. Football belongs to everyone. It is not divided by religion or caste but still they are opposing with black flags. Their minds are black. One cannot argue with people who have black minds."

Cristiano Ronaldo's statue in Goa lands in trouble over colonial Portuguese linkages

Team India ended 2021 on a glorious note, winning their first-ever Test at Centurion. While the year saw India's dominance in Test cricket, they played only a handful of ODIs but faltered in the shortest format of the game. The year had two ICC tournaments, in the form of WTC final and T20 World Cup, but India failed to win any major title. While their overall run in Tests remained impressive, the Men in Blue fell flat in the T20 WC.&nbsp;

Talking about India's campaign in the 2021 T20 WC, the Virat Kohli-led Indian team lost their opening clash to Pakistan by ten wickets (losing their first-ever game versus the arch-rivals in a World Cup). In their next encounter, the one-time winners India were listless versus Kane Williamson's New Zealand as they lost by 8 wickets to edge closer to elimination. While Kohli &amp; Co. bounced back and won three games in a row, it was too late by then as Pakistan and New Zealand marched to the semi-finals from India's group, i.e. Pool B. Recently, Ravi Shastri opined on India's struggles in the T20 WC, post which his tenure as the head coach came to an end.&nbsp;

"Pakistan played well on that day, and against New Zealand, we were timid. We were very timid. It showed in the game. We were tentative instead of going for the jugular. You never mind losing as long as you're throwing punches. But if you're timid and tentative then it hurts more. And in a tournament like this if you lose too early then you're in trouble," Shastri said on the Bold &amp; Brave The Ravi Shastri Way' show on Star Sports.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/packed-home-season-asia-cup-t20-wc-a-glance-at-kohli-rohit-starrer-indias-cricketing-calendar-441557">Packed home season, Asia Cup, T20 WC: A glance at Kohli, Rohit-starrer India's cricketing calendar</a>

Shastri further called for the tournament's format to be like the one witnessed in the 2019 ODI World Cup, which was a round-robin stage with each team playing the other once before the knockouts. The former Indian all-rounder also feels that the playoffs scenario should also be implemented in World Cups. In this regard, he said, "It's not like the format in 2019, where you can play every opposition. I think that is the way to go forward. That format is the best, and then have the Playoffs ideally, if you want to decide the World Cup," explained Shastri."

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Since the 2021 T20 WC campaign, a lot has changed in Indian cricket. Rohit Sharma succeeded Kohli as the T20I captain, after the latter resigned from the post with the end of the World Cup, and recently replaced him as the limited-overs captain as well. The year 2022 will see teams compete once again in the eighth edition of the T20 World Cup, which will be held in current champions Australia's backyard. The one-time winners Team India will aim to move past their past struggles and claim the mega title in 2022.&nbsp;

Team India ended 2021 on a glorious note, winning their first-ever Test at Centurion. While the year saw India's dominance in Test cricket, they played only a handful of ODIs but faltered in the shortest format of the game.

Team India ended 2021 on a glorious note, winning their first-ever Test at Centurion. While the year saw India's dominance in Test cricket, they played only a handful of ODIs but faltered in the shortest format of the game. The year had two ICC tournaments, in the form of WTC final and T20 World Cup, but India failed to win any major title. While their overall run in Tests remained impressive, the Men in Blue fell flat in the T20 WC. Talking about India's campaign in the 2021 T20 WC, the Virat Kohli-led Indian team lost their opening clash to Pakistan by ten wickets (losing their first-ever game versus the arch-rivals in a World Cup). In their next encounter, the one-time winners India were listless versus Kane Williamson's New Zealand as they lost by 8 wickets to edge closer to elimination. While Kohli & Co. bounced back and won three games in a row, it was too late by then as Pakistan and New Zealand marched to the semi-finals from India's group, i.e. Pool B. Recently, Ravi Shastri opined on India's struggles in the T20 WC, post which his tenure as the head coach came to an end. "Pakistan played well on that day, and against New Zealand, we were timid. We were very timid. It showed in the game. We were tentative instead of going for the jugular. You never mind losing as long as you're throwing punches. But if you're timid and tentative then it hurts more. And in a tournament like this if you lose too early then you're in trouble," Shastri said on the Bold & Brave The Ravi Shastri Way' show on Star Sports. ALSO READ | Packed home season, Asia Cup, T20 WC: A glance at Kohli, Rohit-starrer India's cricketing calendar Shastri further called for the tournament's format to be like the one witnessed in the 2019 ODI World Cup, which was a round-robin stage with each team playing the other once before the knockouts. The former Indian all-rounder also feels that the playoffs scenario should also be implemented in World Cups. In this regard, he said, "It's not like the format in 2019, where you can play every opposition. I think that is the way to go forward. That format is the best, and then have the Playoffs ideally, if you want to decide the World Cup," explained Shastri." ALSO READ | KL Rahul named captain for South Africa ODIs as Rohit Sharma ruled out due to hamstring injury Since the 2021 T20 WC campaign, a lot has changed in Indian cricket. Rohit Sharma succeeded Kohli as the T20I captain, after the latter resigned from the post with the end of the World Cup, and recently replaced him as the limited-overs captain as well. The year 2022 will see teams compete once again in the eighth edition of the T20 World Cup, which will be held in current champions Australia's backyard. The one-time winners Team India will aim to move past their past struggles and claim the mega title in 2022.

We were timid, it showed in our game: Ravi Shastri decodes Team India's 2021 T20 World Cup debacle

BCCI announced a strong 18-man squad for the upcoming three-match ODI series versus Temba Bavuma-led South Africa on Friday (December 31). The series will take place in early 2022, soon after the conclusion of the ongoing Tests in the African nation.&nbsp;

While all eyes were on Rohit Sharma's fitness, the limited-overs captain will miss the series after being ruled out due to hamstring injury as his deputy KL Rahul will lead the side in his absence. This will be the first time that Rahul will lead the side in a full series. Earlier, he had led Team India in a T20I in New Zealand, during the final innings, and has led the Punjab Kings (PBKS) in the last two IPL seasons.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-virat-kohli-dances-with-resort-staff-as-india-cap-off-2021-with-historic-centurion-test-win-441406">Watch: Virat Kohli dances with resort staff as India cap off 2021 with historic Centurion Test win</a>

For the unversed, Rahul is also serving as the vice-captain in the ongoing Test series in Rohit's absence. Talking about the squad, it is a well-oiled unit with experienced campaigners such as Shikhar Dhawan, former captain Virat Kohli, R Ashwin, Jasprit Bumrah (named vice-captain), Bhuvneshwar Kumar in the line-up. Among the young guns, Ruturaj Gaikwad -- who top-scored in IPL 2021 and returned with four tons in Vijay Hazare Trophy -- Venkatesh Iyer, Ishan Kishan, Shreyas Iyer, Mohammed Siraj, Washington Sundar have also been included. The likes of Ravindra Jadeja, Hardik Pandya, Axar Patel have missed out due to injury concerns.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/south-africa-no-match-to-team-india-harbhajan-backs-virat-kohli-co-to-win-maiden-test-series-in-sa-441469">South Africa no match to Team India: Harbhajan backs Virat Kohli &amp; Co. to win maiden Test series in SA</a>

The ODI series will get underway on January 19 at Paarl, which will be followed by the second and third encounter at Paarl and Cape Town, respectively. The Indian team will be eager to begin 2022 in style by winning the Test as well as the ODI series in the African nation. In year 2021, India played only a handful of ODIs (six), winning four&nbsp;and losing two games.

Squad: KL Rahul (captain), Shikhar Dhawan, Gaikwad, Kohli, Iyer, Suryakumar, Venktesh, Kishan, Ashwin, Chahal, Sundar, Jasprit Bumrah (vice-captain), Bhuvneshwar, Pant, Krishna, Siraj, Shardul, Deepak Chahar

BCCI announced a strong 18-man squad for the upcoming three-match ODI series versus Temba Bavuma-led South Africa on Friday (December 31). The series will take place in early 2022, soon after the conclusion of the ongoing Tests in the African nation.

BCCI announced a strong 18-man squad for the upcoming three-match ODI series versus Temba Bavuma-led South Africa on Friday (December 31). The series will take place in early 2022, soon after the conclusion of the ongoing Tests in the African nation. While all eyes were on Rohit Sharma's fitness, the limited-overs captain will miss the series after being ruled out due to hamstring injury as his deputy KL Rahul will lead the side in his absence. This will be the first time that Rahul will lead the side in a full series. Earlier, he had led Team India in a T20I in New Zealand, during the final innings, and has led the Punjab Kings (PBKS) in the last two IPL seasons. ALSO READ | Watch: Virat Kohli dances with resort staff as India cap off 2021 with historic Centurion Test win For the unversed, Rahul is also serving as the vice-captain in the ongoing Test series in Rohit's absence. Talking about the squad, it is a well-oiled unit with experienced campaigners such as Shikhar Dhawan, former captain Virat Kohli, R Ashwin, Jasprit Bumrah (named vice-captain), Bhuvneshwar Kumar in the line-up. Among the young guns, Ruturaj Gaikwad -- who top-scored in IPL 2021 and returned with four tons in Vijay Hazare Trophy -- Venkatesh Iyer, Ishan Kishan, Shreyas Iyer, Mohammed Siraj, Washington Sundar have also been included. The likes of Ravindra Jadeja, Hardik Pandya, Axar Patel have missed out due to injury concerns. ALSO READ | South Africa no match to Team India: Harbhajan backs Virat Kohli & Co. to win maiden Test series in SA The ODI series will get underway on January 19 at Paarl, which will be followed by the second and third encounter at Paarl and Cape Town, respectively. The Indian team will be eager to begin 2022 in style by winning the Test as well as the ODI series in the African nation. In year 2021, India played only a handful of ODIs (six), winning four and losing two games. Squad: KL Rahul (captain), Shikhar Dhawan, Gaikwad, Kohli, Iyer, Suryakumar, Venktesh, Kishan, Ashwin, Chahal, Sundar, Jasprit Bumrah (vice-captain), Bhuvneshwar, Pant, Krishna, Siraj, Shardul, Deepak Chahar

KL Rahul named captain for South Africa ODIs as Rohit Sharma ruled out due to hamstring injury

Contradicting Virat Kohli, chairman of selectors Chetan Sharma on Friday said the batting maestro was told to carry on as T20I captain by everyone in the BCCI.

Days after Kohli quit T20I captaincy, BCCI president Sourav Ganguly said that the Board had asked the superstar batter to reconsider his decision.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kl-rahul-named-captain-for-south-africa-odis-as-rohit-sharma-ruled-out-due-to-hamstring-injury-441482">KL Rahul named captain for South Africa ODIs as Rohit Sharma ruled out due to hamstring injury</a>

Kohli had contradicted Ganguly's statement during his explosive press conference prior to leaving for the Test series against South Africa, saying he had no such communication with the Board's president and that he was informed about his removal as ODI skipper one and a half hour before the selection meeting for the SA series.

However, Sharma on Friday said, "Everyone from selectors to (BCCI) office bearers, convenor of selection meeting and all present told Kohli to wait on T20 captaincy till World Cup got over."

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"Everyone told him to reconsider and rethink," he added.

Kohli's comments had exposed the simmering tension between him and the BCCI officials.&nbsp;

Contradicting Virat Kohli, chairman of selectors Chetan Sharma on Friday said the batting maestro was told to carry on as T20I captain by everyone in the BCCI. Days after Kohli quit T20I captaincy, BCCI president Sourav Ganguly said that the Board had asked the superstar batter to reconsider his decision.

Contradicting Virat Kohli, chairman of selectors Chetan Sharma on Friday said the batting maestro was told to carry on as T20I captain by everyone in the BCCI. Days after Kohli quit T20I captaincy, BCCI president Sourav Ganguly said that the Board had asked the superstar batter to reconsider his decision. ALSO READ: KL Rahul named captain for South Africa ODIs as Rohit Sharma ruled out due to hamstring injury Kohli had contradicted Ganguly's statement during his explosive press conference prior to leaving for the Test series against South Africa, saying he had no such communication with the Board's president and that he was informed about his removal as ODI skipper one and a half hour before the selection meeting for the SA series. However, Sharma on Friday said, "Everyone from selectors to (BCCI) office bearers, convenor of selection meeting and all present told Kohli to wait on T20 captaincy till World Cup got over." ALSO READ: U-19 Asia Cup: Young India hammer Sri Lanka by 9 wickets to win trophy for eighth time "Everyone told him to reconsider and rethink," he added. Kohli's comments had exposed the simmering tension between him and the BCCI officials.

Everyone told Virat Kohli to reconsider stepping down as T20 captain, says chief selector Chetan Sharma

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp believes his side's crucial match against Chelsea will go ahead on Sunday despite three new coronavirus cases in their camp as another fixture was called off by the Premier League.

Klopp refused to name the players on Friday as they were awaiting test results but forward Roberto Firmino and goalkeeper Alisson Becker were absent from pictures released by Liverpool of a club training session.

Both sides will regard the match at Stamford Bridge as a must-win game as they seek to keep pace with defending champions Manchester City, who are eight points clear at the top.

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"We have three new Covid cases in the team and a few more in the staff so it's not so cool at the moment," Klopp told his pre-match press conference.

"I'm not able to say who it is because we have to do the whole process, get a proper PCR (test), but you will see the day after tomorrow on the team sheet -- it will be pretty clear who is affected or infected."

The German, whose side are third in the table, a point behind Chelsea, added: "We never had this proper outbreak where 15 to 20 players had it. For us it is every day, another one, stuff happens more and more often.

"It's like a lottery in the morning, waiting for the result. It is pretty much day-by-day, always one case, then another one.

"We have to wait as the boys are not in yet. In this moment (we will) probably not (ask for a postponement) but we don't know how it will look in a few hours."

In addition to the three Covid cases, the injured Takumi Minamino and Thiago Alcantara will miss the trip to Chelsea.

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Klopp's comments came as Southampton's Premier League match at home to Newcastle on Sunday was postponed due to Covid cases in the visitors' camp.

The game at St Mary's is the second in Premier League matchweek 21 to be postponed, following the announcement on Thursday that the New Year's Day clash between Leicester and Norwich was off.

Top-flight clubs have stepped up their Covid-19 protocols, including daily testing for players and club staff.

Despite that, a record 103 cases were confirmed for the period from December 20 to 26.

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp believes his side's crucial match against Chelsea will go ahead on Sunday despite three new coronavirus cases in their camp as another fixture was called off by the Premier League.

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp believes his side's crucial match against Chelsea will go ahead on Sunday despite three new coronavirus cases in their camp as another fixture was called off by the Premier League. Klopp refused to name the players on Friday as they were awaiting test results but forward Roberto Firmino and goalkeeper Alisson Becker were absent from pictures released by Liverpool of a club training session. Both sides will regard the match at Stamford Bridge as a must-win game as they seek to keep pace with defending champions Manchester City, who are eight points clear at the top. ALSO READ: Manchester City's defender Joao Cancelo claims to have suffered facial injuries in assault "We have three new Covid cases in the team and a few more in the staff so it's not so cool at the moment," Klopp told his pre-match press conference. "I'm not able to say who it is because we have to do the whole process, get a proper PCR (test), but you will see the day after tomorrow on the team sheet -- it will be pretty clear who is affected or infected." The German, whose side are third in the table, a point behind Chelsea, added: "We never had this proper outbreak where 15 to 20 players had it. For us it is every day, another one, stuff happens more and more often. "It's like a lottery in the morning, waiting for the result. It is pretty much day-by-day, always one case, then another one. "We have to wait as the boys are not in yet. In this moment (we will) probably not (ask for a postponement) but we don't know how it will look in a few hours." In addition to the three Covid cases, the injured Takumi Minamino and Thiago Alcantara will miss the trip to Chelsea. ALSO READ: Premier League: Newcastle game against Southampton postponed amid injuries and COVID-19 cases Klopp's comments came as Southampton's Premier League match at home to Newcastle on Sunday was postponed due to Covid cases in the visitors' camp. The game at St Mary's is the second in Premier League matchweek 21 to be postponed, following the announcement on Thursday that the New Year's Day clash between Leicester and Norwich was off. Top-flight clubs have stepped up their Covid-19 protocols, including daily testing for players and club staff. Despite that, a record 103 cases were confirmed for the period from December 20 to 26.

Liverpool's boss Jurgen Klopp reveals three players COVID-19 positive before Chelsea trip

Manchester City defender&nbsp;Joao&nbsp;Cancelo&nbsp;says he suffered facial injuries when he was assaulted by a gang of burglars who "tried to hurt" his family.

The Portugal international posted a picture on Instagram on Thursday evening, which showed a cut above his right eye.

The 27-year-old full-back did not say where the attack took place, but City said in a statement it was during a burglary at the player's home.

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"Unfortunately today I was assaulted by four cowards who hurt me and tried to hurt my family,"&nbsp;Cancelo&nbsp;posted.
<img alt="Joao Cancelo" data-align="center" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a72768c8-00b6-4db9-ab55-2abf8e2914f3" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/FH5Bp_PWYAMbX_0.jpg" />
"When you show resistance, this is what happens. They managed to take all my jewellery and leave me with my face with this state."

Cancelo&nbsp;added: "I don't know how there are people with such meanness.

"The most important thing for me is my family and luckily they are all OK.

"After so many obstacles in my life this is just one more that I will overcome. Firm and strong, like always."

Cancelo, who joined City from Juventus in August 2019, is widely considered to have been one of the best players for Pep Guardiola's Premier League leaders this season.

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As an 18-year-old, the Portuguese player&nbsp;was a passenger in a car accident that killed his mother.

A Manchester City statement read: "We are shocked and appalled that&nbsp;Joao&nbsp;Cancelo&nbsp;and his family were subjected to a burglary at their home this evening during which&nbsp;Joao&nbsp;was also assaulted.

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We are shocked and appalled that Joao Cancelo and his family were subjected to a burglary at their home this evening during which Joao was also assaulted. (1/2)
— Manchester City (@ManCity) <a href="https://twitter.com/ManCity/status/1476702145655230469?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 30, 2021</a></blockquote>
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"Joao&nbsp;and his family are being supported by the club and he is helping the police with their enquiries as they investigate this very serious matter."

Manchester City defender Joao Cancelo says he suffered facial injuries when he was assaulted by a gang of burglars who "tried to hurt" his family. The Portugal international posted a picture on Instagram on Thursday evening, which showed a cut above his right eye.

Manchester City defender Joao Cancelo says he suffered facial injuries when he was assaulted by a gang of burglars who "tried to hurt" his family. The Portugal international posted a picture on Instagram on Thursday evening, which showed a cut above his right eye. The 27-year-old full-back did not say where the attack took place, but City said in a statement it was during a burglary at the player's home. ALSO READ: Premier League: Newcastle game against Southampton postponed amid injuries and COVID-19 cases "Unfortunately today I was assaulted by four cowards who hurt me and tried to hurt my family," Cancelo posted. "When you show resistance, this is what happens. They managed to take all my jewellery and leave me with my face with this state." Cancelo added: "I don't know how there are people with such meanness. "The most important thing for me is my family and luckily they are all OK. "After so many obstacles in my life this is just one more that I will overcome. Firm and strong, like always." Cancelo, who joined City from Juventus in August 2019, is widely considered to have been one of the best players for Pep Guardiola's Premier League leaders this season. ALSO READ: Premier League: Cristiano Ronaldo, Scott Mctominay star in Manchester United's 3-1 win over Burnley As an 18-year-old, the Portuguese player was a passenger in a car accident that killed his mother. A Manchester City statement read: "We are shocked and appalled that Joao Cancelo and his family were subjected to a burglary at their home this evening during which Joao was also assaulted. We are shocked and appalled that Joao Cancelo and his family were subjected to a burglary at their home this evening during which Joao was also assaulted. (1/2) — Manchester City (@ManCity) December 30, 2021 × "Joao and his family are being supported by the club and he is helping the police with their enquiries as they investigate this very serious matter."

Manchester City's defender Joao Cancelo claims to have suffered facial injuries in assault

India romped past South Africa by 113 runs to win the first Test at SuperSpork Park, Centurion on Thursday (December 30) and go 1-0 up in the three-match series. Everything clicked for the visitors from the word go as they went onto win their first-ever Test at Centurion, which was SA's fortress since 2014.&nbsp;

Winning the toss and opting to bat first, Kohli &amp; Co. rode on KL Rahul's 123 to post 327 all-out. In reply, Proteas fell like nine pins to be all-out for 197, courtesy Mohammed Shami's five-fer, to concede a 130-run lead. In their second essay, India managed only 174 but setup a competitive 305-run target for the hosts. On Day 5, Dean Elgar-led Proteas resumed at 94-4 and got dismissed for 191 to lose the clash by 113 runs.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/no-kohli-or-bumrah-rohit-sharma-rishabh-pant-among-4-indians-in-cricket-australias-test-xi-of-2021-441447">No Kohli or Bumrah! Rohit Sharma, Rishabh Pant among 4 Indians in Cricket Australia's Test XI of 2021</a>

Thus, India are now one step closer to winning their maiden Test series in the African nation. Ahead of the second Test, which gets underway on January 3 at The Wanderers, Johannesburg, former spinner Harbhajan Sigh feels Kohli &amp; Co. are too dominant infront of the hapless Proteas and will get past them in one of the two remaining Tests to win the series.&nbsp;

"We’ve spoken about it earlier as well that this series will present plenty of opportunities against South Africa. When India used to tour South Africa earlier, it seemed as if they are travelling to play in very difficult conditions, but now the irrespective of the scenario in South African cricket, India have the bowlers to take 20 wickets. Shami picked five wickets and bowled splendidly in the second innings. Bumrah took crucial wickets on Day 4 evening," Harbhajan said on Sports Tak.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/team-india-by-far-the-best-in-the-world-former-sa-pacer-lauds-virat-kohli-co-post-centurion-test-win-441425">Team India by far the best in the world: Former SA pacer lauds Virat Kohli &amp; Co. post Centurion Test win</a>

"Overall, if you look at it, this South Africa team is no match to the current Indian unit. I feel this is a very strong Indian team and like I had said earlier, this is their best opportunity to win a Test series there. If they can't win it this time around, it will be very difficult. The start though has been very good and, in the time to come, India will win at least one of the next two games and take the series," explained Harbhajan.

India romped past South Africa by 113 runs to win the first Test at SuperSpork Park, Centurion on Thursday (December 30) and go 1-0 up in the three-match series.

India romped past South Africa by 113 runs to win the first Test at SuperSpork Park, Centurion on Thursday (December 30) and go 1-0 up in the three-match series. Everything clicked for the visitors from the word go as they went onto win their first-ever Test at Centurion, which was SA's fortress since 2014. Winning the toss and opting to bat first, Kohli & Co. rode on KL Rahul's 123 to post 327 all-out. In reply, Proteas fell like nine pins to be all-out for 197, courtesy Mohammed Shami's five-fer, to concede a 130-run lead. In their second essay, India managed only 174 but setup a competitive 305-run target for the hosts. On Day 5, Dean Elgar-led Proteas resumed at 94-4 and got dismissed for 191 to lose the clash by 113 runs. ALSO READ | No Kohli or Bumrah! Rohit Sharma, Rishabh Pant among 4 Indians in Cricket Australia's Test XI of 2021 Thus, India are now one step closer to winning their maiden Test series in the African nation. Ahead of the second Test, which gets underway on January 3 at The Wanderers, Johannesburg, former spinner Harbhajan Sigh feels Kohli & Co. are too dominant infront of the hapless Proteas and will get past them in one of the two remaining Tests to win the series. "We’ve spoken about it earlier as well that this series will present plenty of opportunities against South Africa. When India used to tour South Africa earlier, it seemed as if they are travelling to play in very difficult conditions, but now the irrespective of the scenario in South African cricket, India have the bowlers to take 20 wickets. Shami picked five wickets and bowled splendidly in the second innings. Bumrah took crucial wickets on Day 4 evening," Harbhajan said on Sports Tak. ALSO READ | Team India by far the best in the world: Former SA pacer lauds Virat Kohli & Co. post Centurion Test win "Overall, if you look at it, this South Africa team is no match to the current Indian unit. I feel this is a very strong Indian team and like I had said earlier, this is their best opportunity to win a Test series there. If they can't win it this time around, it will be very difficult. The start though has been very good and, in the time to come, India will win at least one of the next two games and take the series," explained Harbhajan.

South Africa no match to Team India: Harbhajan backs Virat Kohli & Co. to win maiden Test series in SA

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