COVID-19 cases in the visiting teams have forced the postponement of the Liverpool v Leeds United and Wolverhampton Wanderers v Watford games scheduled for Boxing Day, the Premier League announced on Thursday.

The number of Premier League games called off due to COVID-19 outbreaks is now up to 12 in the last two weeks but the League said it was their intention to continue playing fixtures "where safely possible".

"Following postponement requests from Leeds United and Watford as a result of COVID-19, the Premier League Board met this morning and regrettably agreed to call off the two affected clubs'&nbsp;Boxing Day fixtures," it said in a statement.

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"The Board today was able to make its decisions in advance of Boxing Day to give clarity to clubs and their supporters. We apologise for the inconvenience and disruption caused to those fans` festive plans."

The League said Leeds would have been unable to fulfil the fixture due to a number of players with COVID-19, injuries and illness.

Leeds said all the COVID-19 cases they have experienced are asymptomatic. The club`s training ground will be closed for two days on the advice of Public Health England.

Watford, who have already had two games called off this month, continue to have an insufficient number of players to field a team, the League said.

"Due to players coming out of isolation, it is fully expected Watford will be available for their fixture on Tuesday 28 December, against West Ham United," the League added.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/player-welfare-not-taken-seriously-liverpools-jordan-henderson-reacts-as-pl-continues-amid-covid-scare-438964">Player welfare not taken seriously: Liverpool's Jordan Henderson reacts as PL continues amid Covid scare</a>

The Premier League only grants a postponement if a club has fewer than 14 players available, with the board examining requests on a case-by-case basis.

Clubs such as Chelsea have had requests to postpone games rejected. Leicester City also had a request rejected before the League had no choice after more players and staff tested positive on the day of their game against Tottenham Hotspur.

The situation is worse in the lower divisions with four second-tier Championship games scheduled for Boxing Day postponed due to COVID-19 cases while 11 games in League One and League Two were also called off.

COVID-19 cases in the visiting teams have forced the postponement of the Liverpool v Leeds United and Wolverhampton Wanderers v Watford games scheduled for Boxing Day, the Premier League announced on Thursday.

COVID-19 cases in the visiting teams have forced the postponement of the Liverpool v Leeds United and Wolverhampton Wanderers v Watford games scheduled for Boxing Day, the Premier League announced on Thursday. The number of Premier League games called off due to COVID-19 outbreaks is now up to 12 in the last two weeks but the League said it was their intention to continue playing fixtures "where safely possible". "Following postponement requests from Leeds United and Watford as a result of COVID-19, the Premier League Board met this morning and regrettably agreed to call off the two affected clubs' Boxing Day fixtures," it said in a statement. ALSO READ: Covid outbreak at Aston Villa made one player reluctant to get out of his car, reveals boss Steven Gerrard "The Board today was able to make its decisions in advance of Boxing Day to give clarity to clubs and their supporters. We apologise for the inconvenience and disruption caused to those fans` festive plans." The League said Leeds would have been unable to fulfil the fixture due to a number of players with COVID-19, injuries and illness. Leeds said all the COVID-19 cases they have experienced are asymptomatic. The club`s training ground will be closed for two days on the advice of Public Health England. Watford, who have already had two games called off this month, continue to have an insufficient number of players to field a team, the League said. "Due to players coming out of isolation, it is fully expected Watford will be available for their fixture on Tuesday 28 December, against West Ham United," the League added. ALSO READ: Player welfare not taken seriously: Liverpool's Jordan Henderson reacts as PL continues amid Covid scare The Premier League only grants a postponement if a club has fewer than 14 players available, with the board examining requests on a case-by-case basis. Clubs such as Chelsea have had requests to postpone games rejected. Leicester City also had a request rejected before the League had no choice after more players and staff tested positive on the day of their game against Tottenham Hotspur. The situation is worse in the lower divisions with four second-tier Championship games scheduled for Boxing Day postponed due to COVID-19 cases while 11 games in League One and League Two were also called off.

Premier League: Liverpool v Leeds, Wolves v Watford games postponed amid rise in COVID-19 cases

Team India are set to commence their tour of South Africa with the first Test to get underway on December 26 in Centurion. Ahead of the three-match Test series, former SA speedster Allan Donald has lavished praise on Kohli-led Indian team and expects a bumper contest between both sides in the forthcoming series in the African nation.&nbsp;

Despite not having the likes of Rohit Sharma, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel and Shubman Gill, Indian team is strong enough to challenge the Dean Elgar-led side in their own backyard. The No. 1 ranked Indian team will also be eager to win their first-ever series in whites in South Africa, after losing closely (2-1) during the 2018 tour.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-vs-bcci-dont-know-why-there-was-any-statement-by-sourav-ganguly-says-sanjay-manjrekar-439302">Virat Kohli vs BCCI: Don't know why there was any statement by Sourav Ganguly, says Sanjay Manjrekar</a>

Donald believes India have been very good while being on the road and can pose a serious threat to the Proteas. "There is no doubt this is one of the marquee series in the world game and we can look forward to an incredible battle over the summer," Donald was quoted as saying by cricket.co.za.

He added, "Kohli's comments a few years ago were that you'll never be classed as a great side if you don't win away from home and that has been something he really worked towards. You saw them win in Australia and also reach the WTC (World Test Championship) Final. This is a quality Indian team that is here. I'm looking forward to it."

Donald pointed out, "Both teams line up really well, both have strong bowling line-ups and that will mean the batting on both sides will be tested. Our batting has lost some key players in the last couple of seasons. There's no hiding from the fact that it’s a young line-up and they will be tested by the Indian attack."

"For me that is where the series will be decided. In the last few seasons, we haven't scored enough runs and that will be the challenge. If we can put the runs on the board, we undoubtedly have the bowlers who can take 20 wickets. There is a really good balance to our attack, and it will be interesting to watch."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-sa-1st-test-msk-prasad-picks-4-pacers-for-kohli-co-as-experienced-campaigner-misses-out-439277">India vs SA, 1st Test: MSK Prasad picks 4 pacers for Kohli &amp; Co. as experienced campaigner misses out</a>

Recently, Kohli had recalled India's 2018 Tests versus SA and said, "South Africa was really the start for us as a team, travelling and starting to belief we can win series overseas. We built it up nicely in England, and Australia was an accumulation of all those efforts."

It will be interesting to see if India can achieve their first-ever Test series in South Africa. They are coming to the African nation on the back of two historic series wins in Australia, reaching the inaugural WTC final and taking an unassailable 2-1 lead over England in the incomplete five Tests held in the United Kingdom early this year.&nbsp;

For India to do well, the likes of Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah, R Ashwin, Cheteshwar Pujara and Mohammed Shami will have to be on their toes and perform in all cylinders.

Team India are set to commence their tour of South Africa with the first Test to get underway on December 26 in Centurion. Ahead of the three-match Test series, former SA speedster Allan Donald has lavished praise on Kohli-led Indian team and expects a bumper contest between both sides in the forthcoming series in the African nation.

Team India are set to commence their tour of South Africa with the first Test to get underway on December 26 in Centurion. Ahead of the three-match Test series, former SA speedster Allan Donald has lavished praise on Kohli-led Indian team and expects a bumper contest between both sides in the forthcoming series in the African nation. Despite not having the likes of Rohit Sharma, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel and Shubman Gill, Indian team is strong enough to challenge the Dean Elgar-led side in their own backyard. The No. 1 ranked Indian team will also be eager to win their first-ever series in whites in South Africa, after losing closely (2-1) during the 2018 tour. ALSO READ | Virat Kohli vs BCCI: Don't know why there was any statement by Sourav Ganguly, says Sanjay Manjrekar Donald believes India have been very good while being on the road and can pose a serious threat to the Proteas. "There is no doubt this is one of the marquee series in the world game and we can look forward to an incredible battle over the summer," Donald was quoted as saying by cricket.co.za. He added, "Kohli's comments a few years ago were that you'll never be classed as a great side if you don't win away from home and that has been something he really worked towards. You saw them win in Australia and also reach the WTC (World Test Championship) Final. This is a quality Indian team that is here. I'm looking forward to it." Donald pointed out, "Both teams line up really well, both have strong bowling line-ups and that will mean the batting on both sides will be tested. Our batting has lost some key players in the last couple of seasons. There's no hiding from the fact that it’s a young line-up and they will be tested by the Indian attack." "For me that is where the series will be decided. In the last few seasons, we haven't scored enough runs and that will be the challenge. If we can put the runs on the board, we undoubtedly have the bowlers who can take 20 wickets. There is a really good balance to our attack, and it will be interesting to watch." ALSO READ | India vs SA, 1st Test: MSK Prasad picks 4 pacers for Kohli & Co. as experienced campaigner misses out Recently, Kohli had recalled India's 2018 Tests versus SA and said, "South Africa was really the start for us as a team, travelling and starting to belief we can win series overseas. We built it up nicely in England, and Australia was an accumulation of all those efforts." It will be interesting to see if India can achieve their first-ever Test series in South Africa. They are coming to the African nation on the back of two historic series wins in Australia, reaching the inaugural WTC final and taking an unassailable 2-1 lead over England in the incomplete five Tests held in the United Kingdom early this year. For India to do well, the likes of Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah, R Ashwin, Cheteshwar Pujara and Mohammed Shami will have to be on their toes and perform in all cylinders.

This is a quality Indian team: Allan Donald recalls Virat Kohli's words from 2018 ahead of Centurion Test

Russian President Vladimir Putin called the diplomatic boycott of the upcoming Beijing Winter Olympics by the United States and its allies a mistake driven by a desire to restrain China's development.

Washington will not prevent China's emergence as a global competitor by dragging politics into sports, Putin said in reply to a question at his annual news conference.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nhl-says-wont-send-players-for-beijing-games-after-regular-season-disrupted-due-to-surge-in-covid-19-cases-439109">NHL says won't send players for Beijing Games after regular season disrupted due to surge in COVID-19 cases</a>

Canada and the United Kingdom have said they will join the United States in a diplomatic boycott of the games, a move which Beijing has condemned as a betrayal of the Olympic principles. 
&nbsp;

Russian President Vladimir Putin called the diplomatic boycott of the upcoming Beijing Winter Olympics by the United States and its allies a mistake driven by a desire to restrain China's development.

Russian President Vladimir Putin called the diplomatic boycott of the upcoming Beijing Winter Olympics by the United States and its allies a mistake driven by a desire to restrain China's development. Washington will not prevent China's emergence as a global competitor by dragging politics into sports, Putin said in reply to a question at his annual news conference. ALSO READ: NHL says won't send players for Beijing Games after regular season disrupted due to surge in COVID-19 cases Canada and the United Kingdom have said they will join the United States in a diplomatic boycott of the games, a move which Beijing has condemned as a betrayal of the Olympic principles.

Russian President Vladimir Putin says Western diplomatic boycott of Beijing Winter Olympics is a mistake

Aston Villa manager Steven&nbsp;Gerrard&nbsp;said fear of Covid-19 is so heightened that one of his players was reluctant to get out of his car.

An outbreak at Villa saw their match against Burnley last Saturday postponed at short notice, with&nbsp;Gerrard&nbsp;warning Wednesday that it will be a "nightmare" if the Midlands club have to tackle two matches in two days with just 14 players available.

"We had a situation at the weekend where one of the players was reluctant to get out of his car because he had some symptoms and he's got a young family, and you can totally understand his view in his situation,"&nbsp;Gerrard&nbsp;said.&nbsp;

"This is a guy who's got a young family, it is Christmas time, and that's the situation everyone is in."

The former Liverpool and England midfielder added: "No-one wants to get this virus. Everyone wants to protect their own families. This is our job and your priority is always going to be your family, of course it is.

"Thankfully he was tested after and he didn't have a situation, but that player would not have been available for me on the day, and these are the little situations that people don't see.

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"We've got a major responsibility to listen to the players and deal with every situation as it comes your way."

The Premier League announced on Monday its intention to continue with scheduled matches over the traditionally busy Christmas and New Year period, despite more than 90 confirmed coronavirus cases among players and staff in the last week.

Last weekend, six of 10 scheduled games in England's Premier League were called because of coronavirus outbreaks.

<h2>'Nobody takes welfare seriously'</h2>

The Premier League is due to hold 'virtual' meetings with managers and captains on Thursday to hear their concerns but Liverpool skipper Jordan Henderson said officials needed to pay more attention to the welfare of players.

"Football to us is everything and we want to be able to perform at the highest level every time we set foot on the pitch," Henderson told the BBC. "And unfortunately, in this period it is difficult to do that."

The 31-year-old England midfielder added: "That has been like this for a few years now and it has been difficult but then, on top of that, you chuck in Covid and it becomes even harder and even worse.

"I am concerned that nobody really takes player welfare seriously."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/league-cup-liverpool-beat-leicester-in-penalty-shootout-chelsea-and-spurs-qualify-for-semis-439220">League Cup: Liverpool beat Leicester in penalty shootout, Chelsea and Spurs qualify for semis</a>

Liverpool were without a number of key players for their 2-2 draw at Tottenham Hotspur last&nbsp;weekend, including Virgil van Dijk, Fabinho and Thiago Alcantara.

That fixture is one of five games in two weeks for Liverpool, who face Leicester in a League Cup quarter-final on Tuesday.

"I think decisions get made -- of course we want to play as footballers, we want to get out there and play -- but I am worried about player welfare and I don't think anybody does take that seriously enough, especially in this period, when Covid is here," Henderson said.

Aston Villa manager Steven Gerrard said fear of Covid-19 is so heightened that one of his players was reluctant to get out of his car. An outbreak at Villa saw their match against Burnley last Saturday postponed at short notice, with Gerrard warning Wednesday that it will be a "nightmare" if the Midlands club have to tackle two matches in two days with just 14 players available.

Aston Villa manager Steven Gerrard said fear of Covid-19 is so heightened that one of his players was reluctant to get out of his car. An outbreak at Villa saw their match against Burnley last Saturday postponed at short notice, with Gerrard warning Wednesday that it will be a "nightmare" if the Midlands club have to tackle two matches in two days with just 14 players available. "We had a situation at the weekend where one of the players was reluctant to get out of his car because he had some symptoms and he's got a young family, and you can totally understand his view in his situation," Gerrard said. "This is a guy who's got a young family, it is Christmas time, and that's the situation everyone is in." The former Liverpool and England midfielder added: "No-one wants to get this virus. Everyone wants to protect their own families. This is our job and your priority is always going to be your family, of course it is. "Thankfully he was tested after and he didn't have a situation, but that player would not have been available for me on the day, and these are the little situations that people don't see. ALSO READ: FIFA names 18 Indian referees, including four women, to its International list for 2022 "We've got a major responsibility to listen to the players and deal with every situation as it comes your way." The Premier League announced on Monday its intention to continue with scheduled matches over the traditionally busy Christmas and New Year period, despite more than 90 confirmed coronavirus cases among players and staff in the last week. Last weekend, six of 10 scheduled games in England's Premier League were called because of coronavirus outbreaks. 'Nobody takes welfare seriously' The Premier League is due to hold 'virtual' meetings with managers and captains on Thursday to hear their concerns but Liverpool skipper Jordan Henderson said officials needed to pay more attention to the welfare of players. "Football to us is everything and we want to be able to perform at the highest level every time we set foot on the pitch," Henderson told the BBC. "And unfortunately, in this period it is difficult to do that." The 31-year-old England midfielder added: "That has been like this for a few years now and it has been difficult but then, on top of that, you chuck in Covid and it becomes even harder and even worse. "I am concerned that nobody really takes player welfare seriously." ALSO READ: League Cup: Liverpool beat Leicester in penalty shootout, Chelsea and Spurs qualify for semis Liverpool were without a number of key players for their 2-2 draw at Tottenham Hotspur last weekend, including Virgil van Dijk, Fabinho and Thiago Alcantara. That fixture is one of five games in two weeks for Liverpool, who face Leicester in a League Cup quarter-final on Tuesday. "I think decisions get made -- of course we want to play as footballers, we want to get out there and play -- but I am worried about player welfare and I don't think anybody does take that seriously enough, especially in this period, when Covid is here," Henderson said.

Covid outbreak at Aston Villa made one player reluctant to get out of his car, reveals boss Steven Gerrard

Kapil Dev-led Team India created history when they went onto win the country's maiden World Cup during the 1983 edition in England. Back then, not many had given India any chance to proceed further into the tournament after their flop performances in the first two editions, in 1975 and 1979.

While Kapil &amp; Co. started their campaign with two wins in a row, they soon fell flat with equal number of defeats as they faced Zimbabwe, for the second time, on June 18, 1983. It was a must-win game for India, who had convincingly lost their last two encounters. Opting to bat first, at&nbsp;Nevill Ground, Tunbridge Wells, India were off to a nightmarish start as they were reduced to 17-5 in no time.

Losing hopes of survival, Kapil formed handy partnership with Roger Binny before his unbeaten 126-run ninth-wicket stand with wicketkeeper-batsman Syed Kirmani took India to 266/8. Kapil and Kirmani remained unbeaten as the skipper's 175 took India to a competitive score.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/throwback-when-kapil-dev-mankanded-peter-kirsten-during-indias-1992-tour-of-sa-watch-438727">THROWBACK: When Kapil Dev mankanded Peter Kirsten during India's 1992 tour of SA - WATCH</a>

Recalling his partnership with Kapil and how the Indian captain led the side's recovery, Kirmani was quoted as saying by the Indian Express, "I walked up to Kapil, who was standing there, his head down. It was a 60-over game and we still had 35 overs left in our innings. I told Kapil, ‘listen Kaps, we are in a do-or-die situation. We just cannot sit and die’. ‘Maar ke marne ka hai (we will go down hitting)’, he said.

"I tried to inspire him saying, ‘you are the best hitter in the Indian team. I will take singles and will give you strike. You will try to hit every delivery’. He said, ‘Kiri bhai, humko aur 35 overs khelna hai (we still have to play 35 overs). I will try my best’."

For the unversed, Kapil's innings comprised 16 fours and 6 gigantic sixes. In reply, Zimbabwe were dismissed for 235 as Kapil, Madan Lal and Binny led the charge with the ball.&nbsp;

From thereon, India gained momentum and reached the final, setting up a clash versus the two-time winners Clive Lloyd-led West Indies.

In the summit clash, Windies bundled out India for 183 after inviting them to bat first. Kirmani recalled Kapil's words during the mid-innings and said, "Even when India could only score 183 runs in the final against West Indies, Kapil had not lost hope. “Even after we were all out for 183 in the final, we weren’t looking back. We had nothing to lose. Kapil said, ‘let’s go and give our best’. We had already overachieved. We decided to put our best foot forward."

As a result, India managed to pull off an upset and beat West Indies by 43 runs, dismissing them for 140 courtesy Madan and vice-captain Mohinder Amarnath's three-fers.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-will-do-kapil-dev-makes-bold-claim-on-team-indias-head-coach-rahul-dravid-432134">'He will do....' - Kapil Dev makes bold claim on Team India's head coach Rahul Dravid</a>

On December 24 (Friday), Ranveer Singh-starrer 83 is set to hit the silver screens, a movie on India's historic triumph in the 1983 WC. Hence, many will get to relive the epic journey where an underdog Indian team rose to the occasion and created history against all odds.&nbsp;

Kapil Dev-led Team India created history when they went onto win the country's maiden World Cup during the 1983 edition in England. Back then, not many had given India any chance to proceed further into the tournament after their flop performances in the first two editions, in 1975 and 1979.

Kapil Dev-led Team India created history when they went onto win the country's maiden World Cup during the 1983 edition in England. Back then, not many had given India any chance to proceed further into the tournament after their flop performances in the first two editions, in 1975 and 1979. While Kapil & Co. started their campaign with two wins in a row, they soon fell flat with equal number of defeats as they faced Zimbabwe, for the second time, on June 18, 1983. It was a must-win game for India, who had convincingly lost their last two encounters. Opting to bat first, at Nevill Ground, Tunbridge Wells, India were off to a nightmarish start as they were reduced to 17-5 in no time. Losing hopes of survival, Kapil formed handy partnership with Roger Binny before his unbeaten 126-run ninth-wicket stand with wicketkeeper-batsman Syed Kirmani took India to 266/8. Kapil and Kirmani remained unbeaten as the skipper's 175 took India to a competitive score. ALSO READ | THROWBACK: When Kapil Dev mankanded Peter Kirsten during India's 1992 tour of SA - WATCH Recalling his partnership with Kapil and how the Indian captain led the side's recovery, Kirmani was quoted as saying by the Indian Express, "I walked up to Kapil, who was standing there, his head down. It was a 60-over game and we still had 35 overs left in our innings. I told Kapil, ‘listen Kaps, we are in a do-or-die situation. We just cannot sit and die’. ‘Maar ke marne ka hai (we will go down hitting)’, he said. "I tried to inspire him saying, ‘you are the best hitter in the Indian team. I will take singles and will give you strike. You will try to hit every delivery’. He said, ‘Kiri bhai, humko aur 35 overs khelna hai (we still have to play 35 overs). I will try my best’." For the unversed, Kapil's innings comprised 16 fours and 6 gigantic sixes. In reply, Zimbabwe were dismissed for 235 as Kapil, Madan Lal and Binny led the charge with the ball. From thereon, India gained momentum and reached the final, setting up a clash versus the two-time winners Clive Lloyd-led West Indies. In the summit clash, Windies bundled out India for 183 after inviting them to bat first. Kirmani recalled Kapil's words during the mid-innings and said, "Even when India could only score 183 runs in the final against West Indies, Kapil had not lost hope. “Even after we were all out for 183 in the final, we weren’t looking back. We had nothing to lose. Kapil said, ‘let’s go and give our best’. We had already overachieved. We decided to put our best foot forward." As a result, India managed to pull off an upset and beat West Indies by 43 runs, dismissing them for 140 courtesy Madan and vice-captain Mohinder Amarnath's three-fers. ALSO READ | 'He will do....' - Kapil Dev makes bold claim on Team India's head coach Rahul Dravid On December 24 (Friday), Ranveer Singh-starrer 83 is set to hit the silver screens, a movie on India's historic triumph in the 1983 WC. Hence, many will get to relive the epic journey where an underdog Indian team rose to the occasion and created history against all odds.

Syed Kirmani recalls Kapil Dev's majestic 175* in must-win WC game vs Zimbabwe before '83' hits screens

Fresh from their heroics at the recent 2021 World Championships, newly-crowned champion Loh Kean Yew and silver medallist Kidambi Srikanth are likely to meet each other once again at the India Open 2022, organised by the Badminton Association of India (BAI) and scheduled from January 11-16 in New Delhi.

Two-time Olympics medallist PV Sindhu and 2021 World Championships bronze medallist Lakshya Sen have received a relatively easy passage in the initial rounds at the USD 400,000 prize money Super 500 event, which will kickstart the 2022 BWF World Tour season.

Top seed Srikanth, who recently entered Top-10 in the world rankings, and Singapore's Kean Yew have been drawn in the same half and are likely to clash against each other in the possible men's singles semi-final showdown.

ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-never-doubted-myself-always-knew-i-can-come-back-kidambi-srikanth-on-historic-silver-438818">Exclusive! Never doubted myself, always knew I can come back: Kidambi Srikanth on historic silver</a>

In the lower half, in-form Sen will start his campaign against Adham Elgamal of Egypt and could face compatriot and World Championships quarter-finalist HS Prannoy in the Last-8 stage. Prannoy is set to kickstart his challenge against Spaniard Pablo Abian.

Second seed B Sai Praneeth would also be looking to start the year on a high as he will take on Span's Luis Penalver in the opening round and could face Indonesia's Tommy Sugiarto in the quarter-finals.

The 11th edition of the prestigious tournament, which is making a return after a two-year break due to the coronavirus pandemic, will be played at the KD Jadhav Indoor Hall at the Indira Gandhi Stadium.

"It has been tough two years for all of us but we are very excited to host this tournament once again. Unfortunately, keeping players'&nbsp;and other stakeholders'&nbsp;safety as the topmost priority, this mega event will be played without spectators. BAI will ensure execution of this tournament under strict COVID protocols," BAI General Secretary Ajay Singhania said.

In the women's singles, top seed PV Sindhu will begin her march towards a first title of the new year against compatriot Sri Krishna Priya Kudaravalli and could face Russian fifth seed Evgeniya Kosetskaya in the Last-8 stage. Indian badminton fans would be hoping for the marquee all-Indian summit clash between Sindhu and the former World No. 1 Saina Nehwal, who has received a relatively tough draw.

The London Olympics bronze medallist and fourth seed Nehwal is likely to square off against seventh seed Iris Wang of the USA in the quarter-finals and second seed Busanan Ongbamrungphan in the semi-finals.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/pv-sindhu-to-kidambi-srikanth-indians-who-have-won-medals-at-bwf-world-championships-438485">PV Sindhu to Kidambi Srikanth: Indians who have won medals at BWF World Championships</a>

India's top pair of Chirag Shetty and Satwiksairaj Rankireddy, who have been seeded second in the men`s doubles draw and will begin their campaign against compatriot Ravi and Chirag Arora, are likely to meet fourth seed pair of Ben Lane and Sean Vendy from England in the Last-4 stage.

In the women's doubles, the second seed pair of Ashwini Ponnappa and N Sikki Reddy will have an easy route to the Last-8.

However, playing along with B Sumith Reddy, Ponappa will face a tough challenge in the mixed doubles as they will be up against the second-seeded Russian duo of Rodion Alimov and Alina Davletova in their opening round match.&nbsp;

Fresh from their heroics at the recent 2021 World Championships, newly-crowned champion Loh Kean Yew and silver medallist Kidambi Srikanth are likely to meet each other once again at the India Open 2022, organised by the Badminton Association of India (BAI) and scheduled from January 11-16 in New Delhi.

Fresh from their heroics at the recent 2021 World Championships, newly-crowned champion Loh Kean Yew and silver medallist Kidambi Srikanth are likely to meet each other once again at the India Open 2022, organised by the Badminton Association of India (BAI) and scheduled from January 11-16 in New Delhi. Two-time Olympics medallist PV Sindhu and 2021 World Championships bronze medallist Lakshya Sen have received a relatively easy passage in the initial rounds at the USD 400,000 prize money Super 500 event, which will kickstart the 2022 BWF World Tour season. Top seed Srikanth, who recently entered Top-10 in the world rankings, and Singapore's Kean Yew have been drawn in the same half and are likely to clash against each other in the possible men's singles semi-final showdown. ALSO READ: Exclusive! Never doubted myself, always knew I can come back: Kidambi Srikanth on historic silver In the lower half, in-form Sen will start his campaign against Adham Elgamal of Egypt and could face compatriot and World Championships quarter-finalist HS Prannoy in the Last-8 stage. Prannoy is set to kickstart his challenge against Spaniard Pablo Abian. Second seed B Sai Praneeth would also be looking to start the year on a high as he will take on Span's Luis Penalver in the opening round and could face Indonesia's Tommy Sugiarto in the quarter-finals. The 11th edition of the prestigious tournament, which is making a return after a two-year break due to the coronavirus pandemic, will be played at the KD Jadhav Indoor Hall at the Indira Gandhi Stadium. "It has been tough two years for all of us but we are very excited to host this tournament once again. Unfortunately, keeping players' and other stakeholders' safety as the topmost priority, this mega event will be played without spectators. BAI will ensure execution of this tournament under strict COVID protocols," BAI General Secretary Ajay Singhania said. In the women's singles, top seed PV Sindhu will begin her march towards a first title of the new year against compatriot Sri Krishna Priya Kudaravalli and could face Russian fifth seed Evgeniya Kosetskaya in the Last-8 stage. Indian badminton fans would be hoping for the marquee all-Indian summit clash between Sindhu and the former World No. 1 Saina Nehwal, who has received a relatively tough draw. The London Olympics bronze medallist and fourth seed Nehwal is likely to square off against seventh seed Iris Wang of the USA in the quarter-finals and second seed Busanan Ongbamrungphan in the semi-finals. Also Read: PV Sindhu to Kidambi Srikanth: Indians who have won medals at BWF World Championships India's top pair of Chirag Shetty and Satwiksairaj Rankireddy, who have been seeded second in the men`s doubles draw and will begin their campaign against compatriot Ravi and Chirag Arora, are likely to meet fourth seed pair of Ben Lane and Sean Vendy from England in the Last-4 stage. In the women's doubles, the second seed pair of Ashwini Ponnappa and N Sikki Reddy will have an easy route to the Last-8. However, playing along with B Sumith Reddy, Ponappa will face a tough challenge in the mixed doubles as they will be up against the second-seeded Russian duo of Rodion Alimov and Alina Davletova in their opening round match.

India Open 2022 draws announced: Srikanth likely to face Kean Yew, Lakshya and Sindhu get easier passage

As many as 18 Indian referees have been selected in the FIFA Refereeing International list for 2022, the All India Football Federation announced on Thursday.

The extensive list includes officials who are qualified to be referees and assistant referees, the All India Football Federation said in a statement on their website.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/isl-2021-22-kerala-blasters-fc-thrash-chennaiyin-fc-3-0-climb-to-third-spot-in-points-table-439121">ISL 2021-22: Kerala Blasters FC thrash Chennaiyin FC 3-0, climb to third spot in points table</a>

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18 Indian Referees Selected on FIFA'S International List 2022 
 
Read 👉🏼 <a href="https://t.co/GcL6b6Wse4">https://t.co/GcL6b6Wse4</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndianFootball?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndianFootball</a> ⚽️ <a href="https://t.co/JGzfFJVNkc">pic.twitter.com/JGzfFJVNkc</a>
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Members of the list are eligible to officiate at the international level and are also entitled to wear a FIFA badge on their uniform for the year they are enlisted.

The selection for the annual list is made through the nominations sent by FIFA member countries and the officials are required to clear a fitness test.

Out of the selected 18 Indians, four are women (two referees and two assistant referees), and 14 men (six referees and eight assistant referees).

List of of selected Indian officials:

Men referees: Tejas Nagvenkar, Srikrishna Coimbatore Ramaswamy, Rowan Arumughan, Crystal John, Pranjal Banerjee, Venkatesh Ramachandran.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/league-cup-liverpool-beat-leicester-in-penalty-shootout-chelsea-and-spurs-qualify-for-semis-439220">League Cup: Liverpool beat Leicester in penalty shootout, Chelsea and Spurs qualify for semis</a>

Men assistant referees: Sumanta Dutta, Antony Abraham, Tony Joseph Louis, Vairamuthu Parasuraman, Samar Pal, Kennedy Sapam, Arun Sasidharan Pillai, Asit Kumar Sarkar.

Women referees: Ranjita Devi Tekcham, Kanika Barman.

Women assistant referees: Uvena Fernandes, Riiohlang Dhar.&nbsp;

As many as 18 Indian referees have been selected in the FIFA Refereeing International list for 2022, the All India Football Federation announced on Thursday. The extensive list includes officials who are qualified to be referees and assistant referees, the All India Football Federation said in a statement on their website.

As many as 18 Indian referees have been selected in the FIFA Refereeing International list for 2022, the All India Football Federation announced on Thursday. The extensive list includes officials who are qualified to be referees and assistant referees, the All India Football Federation said in a statement on their website. ALSO READ: ISL 2021-22: Kerala Blasters FC thrash Chennaiyin FC 3-0, climb to third spot in points table 18 Indian Referees Selected on FIFA'S International List 2022 Read 👉🏼 https://t.co/GcL6b6Wse4#IndianFootball ⚽️ pic.twitter.com/JGzfFJVNkc — Indian Football Team (@IndianFootball) December 23, 2021 × Members of the list are eligible to officiate at the international level and are also entitled to wear a FIFA badge on their uniform for the year they are enlisted. The selection for the annual list is made through the nominations sent by FIFA member countries and the officials are required to clear a fitness test. Out of the selected 18 Indians, four are women (two referees and two assistant referees), and 14 men (six referees and eight assistant referees). List of of selected Indian officials: Men referees: Tejas Nagvenkar, Srikrishna Coimbatore Ramaswamy, Rowan Arumughan, Crystal John, Pranjal Banerjee, Venkatesh Ramachandran. ALSO READ: League Cup: Liverpool beat Leicester in penalty shootout, Chelsea and Spurs qualify for semis Men assistant referees: Sumanta Dutta, Antony Abraham, Tony Joseph Louis, Vairamuthu Parasuraman, Samar Pal, Kennedy Sapam, Arun Sasidharan Pillai, Asit Kumar Sarkar. Women referees: Ranjita Devi Tekcham, Kanika Barman. Women assistant referees: Uvena Fernandes, Riiohlang Dhar.

FIFA names 18 Indian referees, including four women, to its International list for 2022

Former Indian cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar has joined the bandwagon and reacted to the Virat Kohli vs BCCI ODI captaincy row. Ever since the BCCI announced that Kohli has been removed as the ODI captain, with Rohit Sharma being appointed as the limited-overs skipper, things went out of hand in a flash.

While Kohli rubbished rumours of any rift with Rohit in a press conference, before India's departure for South Africa, he claimed that BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly had no word with him to reconsider quitting as T20I captain (contrary to Ganguly's claims) and even stressed&nbsp;that he had no prior communication with the selectors being his sacking as ODI skipper. In addition, the 33-year-old Kohli said that he was always available for the upcoming SA ODIs, in the African nation, contradicting a claim made by a board member. Hence, it has been Kohli vs BCCI since then.

Now, Manjrekar has also reacted to the unfortunate turn of events and feels that Ganguly shouldn't have made any statement on behalf of the selectors post Kohli's removal as ODI captain. The BCCI President had said that he had advised Kohli to retain the top job in T20Is before the latter completely contradicted from his remark.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/this-wont-be-solved-if-you-keep-dragging-it-shahid-afridi-reacts-to-bcci-vs-virat-kohli-captaincy-saga-439254">This won't be solved if you keep dragging it: Shahid Afridi reacts to BCCI vs Virat Kohli captaincy saga</a>

"Three different captains for three formats is not an ideal scenario but if you are left with no choice and that's gonna get the best out of the three teams, then so be it. The one very important member of the Indian cricket administration is a guy who doesn't quite get the attention that he deserves. And that's the chairman of selectors," Manjrekar told&nbsp;Times Now.&nbsp;

"So I don't know why there should have been a conversation publicly or any statement given by the president of the BCCI when really it is the job of the chairman of the selection committee," he added.&nbsp;

"Miscommunications and all the misunderstandings, everything has been happening over the years. It should have been the chairman of the selection committee versus Virat Kohli. That would have been the right way to go about it. That would have been a more professional exterior,” Manjrekar pointed out.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ganguly-had-no-business-to-speak-on-behalf-of-selection-committee-vengsarkar-on-bcci-kohli-captaincy-row-439033">Ganguly had no business to speak on behalf of selection committee: Vengsarkar on BCCI-Kohli captaincy row</a>

Recently, former chief selector Dilip Vengsarkar had also blamed Ganguly for creating a ruckus by speaking on behalf of the Chetan Sharma-led selection committee. Speaking to&nbsp;Khaleej Times, Vengsarkar has slammed Ganguly and said, "It’s very unfortunate, the whole thing. I think it should have been handled more professionally by the cricket board. The thing is that Ganguly had no business to speak on behalf of the selection committee. Ganguly is the president of BCCI. Any issue about selection or captaincy, it’s the chairman of the selection committee who should speak."

At present, Ganguly-led BCCI have refrained from commenting on the matter post Kohli's explosive presser. Meanwhile, Kohli-led Indian Test team is gearing up for the three-match series versus Dean Elgar-led Proteas which will get underway in Centurion on December 26.

Former Indian cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar has joined the bandwagon and reacted to the Virat Kohli vs BCCI ODI captaincy row. Ever since the BCCI announced that Kohli has been removed as the ODI captain, with Rohit Sharma being appointed as the limited-overs skipper, things went out of hand in a flash.

Former Indian cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar has joined the bandwagon and reacted to the Virat Kohli vs BCCI ODI captaincy row. Ever since the BCCI announced that Kohli has been removed as the ODI captain, with Rohit Sharma being appointed as the limited-overs skipper, things went out of hand in a flash. While Kohli rubbished rumours of any rift with Rohit in a press conference, before India's departure for South Africa, he claimed that BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly had no word with him to reconsider quitting as T20I captain (contrary to Ganguly's claims) and even stressed that he had no prior communication with the selectors being his sacking as ODI skipper. In addition, the 33-year-old Kohli said that he was always available for the upcoming SA ODIs, in the African nation, contradicting a claim made by a board member. Hence, it has been Kohli vs BCCI since then. Now, Manjrekar has also reacted to the unfortunate turn of events and feels that Ganguly shouldn't have made any statement on behalf of the selectors post Kohli's removal as ODI captain. The BCCI President had said that he had advised Kohli to retain the top job in T20Is before the latter completely contradicted from his remark. ALSO READ | This won't be solved if you keep dragging it: Shahid Afridi reacts to BCCI vs Virat Kohli captaincy saga "Three different captains for three formats is not an ideal scenario but if you are left with no choice and that's gonna get the best out of the three teams, then so be it. The one very important member of the Indian cricket administration is a guy who doesn't quite get the attention that he deserves. And that's the chairman of selectors," Manjrekar told Times Now. "So I don't know why there should have been a conversation publicly or any statement given by the president of the BCCI when really it is the job of the chairman of the selection committee," he added. "Miscommunications and all the misunderstandings, everything has been happening over the years. It should have been the chairman of the selection committee versus Virat Kohli. That would have been the right way to go about it. That would have been a more professional exterior,” Manjrekar pointed out. ALSO READ | Ganguly had no business to speak on behalf of selection committee: Vengsarkar on BCCI-Kohli captaincy row Recently, former chief selector Dilip Vengsarkar had also blamed Ganguly for creating a ruckus by speaking on behalf of the Chetan Sharma-led selection committee. Speaking to Khaleej Times, Vengsarkar has slammed Ganguly and said, "It’s very unfortunate, the whole thing. I think it should have been handled more professionally by the cricket board. The thing is that Ganguly had no business to speak on behalf of the selection committee. Ganguly is the president of BCCI. Any issue about selection or captaincy, it’s the chairman of the selection committee who should speak." At present, Ganguly-led BCCI have refrained from commenting on the matter post Kohli's explosive presser. Meanwhile, Kohli-led Indian Test team is gearing up for the three-match series versus Dean Elgar-led Proteas which will get underway in Centurion on December 26.

Virat Kohli vs BCCI: Don't know why there was any statement by Sourav Ganguly, says Sanjay Manjrekar

Sunrisers Hyderabad, the winners of 2016 Indian Premier League (IPL) title, have roped in Dale Steyn, Brian Lara, Simon Katich and Hemang Badani for coaching roles in a new-look support staff for IPL 2022 season. 
 
While Steyn will be the pace bowling coach, Lara will be serving as strategic advisor and batting coach. Katich, who was the head coach for Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in the first phase of IPL 2021, will be the assistant coach while Badani joins as fielding coach and scout. 
 
From the last edition, only Tom Moody (elevated to head coach from director of cricket) and Muttiah Muralitharan (spin bowling coach) have been retaine".

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nz-drop-ajaz-patel-for-bangladesh-home-tests-after-historic-10-fer-vs-india-tom-latham-to-lead-439251">NZ drop Ajaz Patel for Bangladesh home Tests after historic 10-fer vs India, Tom Latham to lead</a> 
 
"Introducing the new management/support staff of SRH for #IPL2022! Orange Army, we are #ReadyTo"ise!," read the franchise's tweet on Thursday. 
 
This will be Steyn's first coaching stint after retiring from all forms of cricket in August this year. He had made his commentary debut during the men's T20 World Cup in the UAE and Oman in October and November. 
 
Regarded as one of the greatest fast bowlers of all time, Steyn picked 439 wickets in 93 Tests at an average of 22.95 apart from picking 196 wickets in 125 ODIs and 64 wickets in 47 T20Is. Steyn, who has played 95 IPL matches while representing the now-defunct Deccan Chargers, Sunrisers Hyderabad, Gujarat Lions, and Royal Challengers Bangalore, took 97 wickets in the league. 
 
Just like Steyn, this will be Lara's first coaching stint in T20 franchise cricket. In a career spanning over 17 years, Lara established himself as one of the greatest left-handed batters in the world. He scored 11,953 runs in 131 Test matches at an average of 52.88, including 34 centuries, 9 double-centuries, and 48 half-centuries. 
 
He holds the record for highest individual score in first-class cricket (501 vs Durham in 1994) as well as the highest individual score in Test cricket (an unbeaten 400 against England in 2004). In ODIs, Lara amassed 10,405 runs at an average of 40.48, including 19 centuries and 63 half-centuries. 
 
Katich, who represented Australia in 56 Tests, 45 ODIs and 3 T20Is, had been an assistant coach for Kolkata Knight Riders in the IPL from 2016 to 2019 before moving to RCB as their head coach until August 2021.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/with-no-rohit-sharma-there-will-be-pressure-on-virat-kohli-reckons-former-sa-spinner-ahead-of-centurion-test-439062">With no Rohit Sharma, there will be pressure on Virat Kohli, reckons former SA spinner ahead of Centurion Test</a> 
 
Badani, who played four Tests and 40 ODIs for India, has been a coach for Chepauk Super Gilles (CSG) since the inception of the Tamil Nadu Premier League (TNPL) in 2016, guiding the team to the trophy in 2017, 2019 and 2021. 
 
In November, Sunrisers Hyderabad retained Kane Williamson, Abdul Samad and Umran Malik ahead of the IPL 2022 mega auction. This season, the team will be without its mentor VVS Laxman, who has now taken over as the director of the National Cricket Academy (NCA). 
 
They also had to deal with Trevor Bayliss and Brad Haddin ending their respective stints as head coach and batting coach with the side after the conclusion of 2021 IPL. Hyderabad finished at the bottom of the eight-team points table, notching up just three wins in 14 matches.

Sunrisers Hyderabad, the winners of 2016 Indian Premier League (IPL) title, have roped in Dale Steyn, Brian Lara, Simon Katich and Hemang Badani for coaching roles in a new-look support staff for IPL 2022 season.

Sunrisers Hyderabad, the winners of 2016 Indian Premier League (IPL) title, have roped in Dale Steyn, Brian Lara, Simon Katich and Hemang Badani for coaching roles in a new-look support staff for IPL 2022 season. While Steyn will be the pace bowling coach, Lara will be serving as strategic advisor and batting coach. Katich, who was the head coach for Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in the first phase of IPL 2021, will be the assistant coach while Badani joins as fielding coach and scout. From the last edition, only Tom Moody (elevated to head coach from director of cricket) and Muttiah Muralitharan (spin bowling coach) have been retaine". ALSO READ: NZ drop Ajaz Patel for Bangladesh home Tests after historic 10-fer vs India, Tom Latham to lead "Introducing the new management/support staff of SRH for #IPL2022! Orange Army, we are #ReadyTo"ise!," read the franchise's tweet on Thursday. This will be Steyn's first coaching stint after retiring from all forms of cricket in August this year. He had made his commentary debut during the men's T20 World Cup in the UAE and Oman in October and November. Regarded as one of the greatest fast bowlers of all time, Steyn picked 439 wickets in 93 Tests at an average of 22.95 apart from picking 196 wickets in 125 ODIs and 64 wickets in 47 T20Is. Steyn, who has played 95 IPL matches while representing the now-defunct Deccan Chargers, Sunrisers Hyderabad, Gujarat Lions, and Royal Challengers Bangalore, took 97 wickets in the league. Just like Steyn, this will be Lara's first coaching stint in T20 franchise cricket. In a career spanning over 17 years, Lara established himself as one of the greatest left-handed batters in the world. He scored 11,953 runs in 131 Test matches at an average of 52.88, including 34 centuries, 9 double-centuries, and 48 half-centuries. He holds the record for highest individual score in first-class cricket (501 vs Durham in 1994) as well as the highest individual score in Test cricket (an unbeaten 400 against England in 2004). In ODIs, Lara amassed 10,405 runs at an average of 40.48, including 19 centuries and 63 half-centuries. Katich, who represented Australia in 56 Tests, 45 ODIs and 3 T20Is, had been an assistant coach for Kolkata Knight Riders in the IPL from 2016 to 2019 before moving to RCB as their head coach until August 2021. ALSO READ: With no Rohit Sharma, there will be pressure on Virat Kohli, reckons former SA spinner ahead of Centurion Test Badani, who played four Tests and 40 ODIs for India, has been a coach for Chepauk Super Gilles (CSG) since the inception of the Tamil Nadu Premier League (TNPL) in 2016, guiding the team to the trophy in 2017, 2019 and 2021. In November, Sunrisers Hyderabad retained Kane Williamson, Abdul Samad and Umran Malik ahead of the IPL 2022 mega auction. This season, the team will be without its mentor VVS Laxman, who has now taken over as the director of the National Cricket Academy (NCA). They also had to deal with Trevor Bayliss and Brad Haddin ending their respective stints as head coach and batting coach with the side after the conclusion of 2021 IPL. Hyderabad finished at the bottom of the eight-team points table, notching up just three wins in 14 matches.

IPL 2022: Sunrisers Hyderabad include Dale Steyn, Brian Lara and other big names in coaching setup

The first Test between India and South Africa is set to get underway on December 26 in Centurion. After the ODI captaincy row created a lot of noise in the last few weeks, the focus has now shifted to the cricketing action as Virat Kohli-led India are in South Africa and gearing up for the three-match Test series opener in the African nation.&nbsp;

The No. 1 ranked Indian Test side is well aware that they have a brilliant chance to beat South Africa, who are without pacer Anrich Nortje and are likely to miss Quinton De Kock's services for the last two Tests, and clinch their maiden Test series in the African nation. For that to happen, Kohli-led India will have to start with a bang and their solid pace unit will have to dent the SA batting line-up.&nbsp;

Ahead of the Centurion Test, former BCCI selection committee chief MSK Prasad has picked his four Indian pacers for the tour-opener leaving out experienced speedster Ishant Sharma.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/this-wont-be-solved-if-you-keep-dragging-it-shahid-afridi-reacts-to-bcci-vs-virat-kohli-captaincy-saga-439254">This won't be solved if you keep dragging it: Shahid Afridi reacts to BCCI vs Virat Kohli captaincy saga</a>

"I think Shardul Thakur is the best choice if they go in with five bowlers as he also gives the option of a steady No.7 batter and we also have Ravichandran Ashwin,” Prasad was quoted as saying by&nbsp;India Today.

"Four bowlers in this line-up are now confirmed if all fit – Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, Ashwin, and Mohammed Siraj. I don’t think Ishant will be considered ahead of Siraj on current form,” he said.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/with-no-rohit-sharma-there-will-be-pressure-on-virat-kohli-reckons-former-sa-spinner-ahead-of-centurion-test-439062">With no Rohit Sharma, there will be pressure on Virat Kohli, reckons former SA spinner ahead of Centurion Test</a>

Ishant was part of India's WTC final and the England Test series. However, his stocks have gone down considerably given his ordinary form and the rise of all-rounder Shardul and Siraj. In this regard, India are likely to go ahead with Bumrah, Shami, Siraj and Shardul in the pace department. Among the spin options, India have R Ashwin, Jayant Yadav and part-time off-spin of Hanuma Vihari.&nbsp;

The first Test between India and South Africa is set to get underway on December 26 in Centurion. After the ODI captaincy row created a lot of noise in the last few weeks, the focus has now shifted to the cricketing action as Virat Kohli-led India are in South Africa and gearing up for the three-match Test series opener in the African nation.

The first Test between India and South Africa is set to get underway on December 26 in Centurion. After the ODI captaincy row created a lot of noise in the last few weeks, the focus has now shifted to the cricketing action as Virat Kohli-led India are in South Africa and gearing up for the three-match Test series opener in the African nation. The No. 1 ranked Indian Test side is well aware that they have a brilliant chance to beat South Africa, who are without pacer Anrich Nortje and are likely to miss Quinton De Kock's services for the last two Tests, and clinch their maiden Test series in the African nation. For that to happen, Kohli-led India will have to start with a bang and their solid pace unit will have to dent the SA batting line-up. Ahead of the Centurion Test, former BCCI selection committee chief MSK Prasad has picked his four Indian pacers for the tour-opener leaving out experienced speedster Ishant Sharma. ALSO READ | This won't be solved if you keep dragging it: Shahid Afridi reacts to BCCI vs Virat Kohli captaincy saga "I think Shardul Thakur is the best choice if they go in with five bowlers as he also gives the option of a steady No.7 batter and we also have Ravichandran Ashwin,” Prasad was quoted as saying by India Today. "Four bowlers in this line-up are now confirmed if all fit – Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, Ashwin, and Mohammed Siraj. I don’t think Ishant will be considered ahead of Siraj on current form,” he said. ALSO READ | With no Rohit Sharma, there will be pressure on Virat Kohli, reckons former SA spinner ahead of Centurion Test Ishant was part of India's WTC final and the England Test series. However, his stocks have gone down considerably given his ordinary form and the rise of all-rounder Shardul and Siraj. In this regard, India are likely to go ahead with Bumrah, Shami, Siraj and Shardul in the pace department. Among the spin options, India have R Ashwin, Jayant Yadav and part-time off-spin of Hanuma Vihari.

India vs SA, 1st Test: MSK Prasad picks 4 pacers for Kohli & Co. as experienced campaigner misses out

Bowler Ajaz Patel's record performance of taking ten wickets in a Test innings did not guarantee him a spot in New Zealand's squad for a home series against Bangladesh.

Off-spinner Patel became only the third player in Test history&nbsp;to take a ten-fer when he returned with 10-119 in the Mumbai Test against India early&nbsp;this month. England's Jim Laker and India's Anil Kumble are the other two bowlers to take all ten wickets in an innings. However, he was left out of New Zealand's 13-man team for a two-Test series against Bangladesh, which begins on January 1.

"You do feel for Ajaz after his record-breaking display in India," coach Gary&nbsp;Stead stated in a statement. "However, we've always applied a horses-for-courses selection policy and believe the players selected best fit the way we want to take on Bangladesh here at home," he added.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/with-no-rohit-sharma-there-will-be-pressure-on-virat-kohli-reckons-former-sa-spinner-ahead-of-centurion-test-439062">With no Rohit Sharma, there will be pressure on Virat Kohli, reckons former SA spinner ahead of Centurion Test</a>

For the first time, Tom Latham will lead the squad for a complete series in lieu of Kane Williamson, who experienced a recurrence of an elbow injury in India and will miss both tests.

"It's obviously disappointing not to have Kane available for this series but, as we noted in India, he is undergoing a sustained period of rest followed by rehabilitation, strengthening and gradual batting loading," Stead said.

"We have every confidence in Tom leading the side. He's done an excellent job in the past when called upon," he further added.

Trent Boult, Tim Southee, Kyle Jamieson, Neil Wagner, and Matt Henry are among the fast bowlers in the team, along with medium pace all-rounder Daryl Mitchell and only one spin option, all-rounder Rachin Ravindra.

"We feel having both Rachin and Daryl in the squad gives us a nice balance and the ability to pick a side best suited to the conditions we expect," New Zealand coach Gary&nbsp;Stead said.

The Tests will be played at Mount Maunganui's Bay Oval and Christchurch's Hagley Oval, both of which are likely to suit faster bowlers.

Devon Conway returns to the side after missing the 1-0 series loss in India due to a broken hand caused after he slammed his bat in anger during the 2021 T20 World Cup semi-final clash versus England.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-rankings-labuschagne-dethrones-root-to-become-no-1-test-batter-babar-reclaims-top-spot-in-t20is-439022">ICC Rankings: Labuschagne dethrones Root to become No. 1 Test batter, Babar reclaims top spot in T20Is</a>

The series begins on New Year's Day at Bay Oval and will be New Zealand's first home Test since winning the World Test Championship, defeating India in England in mid-June 2021.

Since their previous defeat, a 1-0 setback to South Africa in March 2017, the Black Caps have gone undefeated in eight home Test series.

Squad: Tom Latham (captain), Devon Conway, Will Young, Ross Taylor, Henry Nicholls, Daryl Mitchell, Tom Blundell, Rachin Ravindra, Kyle Jamieson, Matt Henry, Tim Southee, Neil Wagner, Trent Boult.

Bowler Ajaz Patel's record performance of taking ten wickets in a Test innings did not guarantee him a spot in New Zealand's squad for a home series against Bangladesh.

Bowler Ajaz Patel's record performance of taking ten wickets in a Test innings did not guarantee him a spot in New Zealand's squad for a home series against Bangladesh. Off-spinner Patel became only the third player in Test history to take a ten-fer when he returned with 10-119 in the Mumbai Test against India early this month. England's Jim Laker and India's Anil Kumble are the other two bowlers to take all ten wickets in an innings. However, he was left out of New Zealand's 13-man team for a two-Test series against Bangladesh, which begins on January 1. "You do feel for Ajaz after his record-breaking display in India," coach Gary Stead stated in a statement. "However, we've always applied a horses-for-courses selection policy and believe the players selected best fit the way we want to take on Bangladesh here at home," he added. ALSO READ: With no Rohit Sharma, there will be pressure on Virat Kohli, reckons former SA spinner ahead of Centurion Test For the first time, Tom Latham will lead the squad for a complete series in lieu of Kane Williamson, who experienced a recurrence of an elbow injury in India and will miss both tests. "It's obviously disappointing not to have Kane available for this series but, as we noted in India, he is undergoing a sustained period of rest followed by rehabilitation, strengthening and gradual batting loading," Stead said. "We have every confidence in Tom leading the side. He's done an excellent job in the past when called upon," he further added. Trent Boult, Tim Southee, Kyle Jamieson, Neil Wagner, and Matt Henry are among the fast bowlers in the team, along with medium pace all-rounder Daryl Mitchell and only one spin option, all-rounder Rachin Ravindra. "We feel having both Rachin and Daryl in the squad gives us a nice balance and the ability to pick a side best suited to the conditions we expect," New Zealand coach Gary Stead said. The Tests will be played at Mount Maunganui's Bay Oval and Christchurch's Hagley Oval, both of which are likely to suit faster bowlers. Devon Conway returns to the side after missing the 1-0 series loss in India due to a broken hand caused after he slammed his bat in anger during the 2021 T20 World Cup semi-final clash versus England. ALSO READ | ICC Rankings: Labuschagne dethrones Root to become No. 1 Test batter, Babar reclaims top spot in T20Is The series begins on New Year's Day at Bay Oval and will be New Zealand's first home Test since winning the World Test Championship, defeating India in England in mid-June 2021. Since their previous defeat, a 1-0 setback to South Africa in March 2017, the Black Caps have gone undefeated in eight home Test series. Squad: Tom Latham (captain), Devon Conway, Will Young, Ross Taylor, Henry Nicholls, Daryl Mitchell, Tom Blundell, Rachin Ravindra, Kyle Jamieson, Matt Henry, Tim Southee, Neil Wagner, Trent Boult.

NZ drop Ajaz Patel for Bangladesh home Tests after historic 10-fer vs India, Tom Latham to lead

A lot has transpired in Indian cricket recently. Following Virat Kohli's sacking as the ODI captain, with Rohit Sharma being named as the limited-overs skipper, the 33-year-old Kohli's explosive presser before India's departure for South Africa left many shellshocked.

Kohli denied being asked by Sourav Ganguly to reconsider his decision of quitting as T20I captain and even told that he had no prior communication with the board or selectors being his sacking as 50-overs skipper. In addition, he rubbished claims made by a board member that he was willing to skip the SA ODIs due to personal reasons. Hence, Kohli vs BCCI row has been much-talked about in recent times.

Former Pakistan captain and all-rounder Shahid Afridi has opened up on the entire controversy and feels it could've been handled in a better way.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2022-in-3-cities-bcci-to-discuss-plan-b-with-all-franchises-as-omicron-threat-looms-large-in-india-439242">IPL 2022 in 3 cities? BCCI to discuss Plan B with all franchises as Omicron threat looms large in India</a>

Afridi, speaking to Pakistani news channel&nbsp;Samaa TV, said, "This could have been handled in a better way. I always feel that the role of a cricket board is very important; it plays the role of a father. Whatever future plans a selection committee of a board has regarding a player, it communicates those plans to that player, like, 'Look, we have these plans, what are your plans? We want to do this and as a board, we see benefits from doing this."

He added, "If you communicate these things via media, there will be issues. Talk face-to-face, and we might have solutions. This won't be solved if you keep dragging it. There should be no communication gap between players and PCB, or any board for that matter."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ganguly-had-no-business-to-speak-on-behalf-of-selection-committee-vengsarkar-on-bcci-kohli-captaincy-row-439033">Ganguly had no business to speak on behalf of selection committee: Vengsarkar on BCCI-Kohli captaincy row</a>

At present, Ganguly has made it clear that BCCI will not react to Kohli's presser in a flash and do it at the right time. On the other hand, Kohli-led Indian team is in South Africa for the three-match Test series in the African nation. The first Test will get underway on December 26 in Centurion.

A lot has transpired in Indian cricket recently. Following Virat Kohli's sacking as the ODI captain, with Rohit Sharma being named as the limited-overs skipper, the 33-year-old Kohli's explosive presser before India's departure for South Africa left many shellshocked.

A lot has transpired in Indian cricket recently. Following Virat Kohli's sacking as the ODI captain, with Rohit Sharma being named as the limited-overs skipper, the 33-year-old Kohli's explosive presser before India's departure for South Africa left many shellshocked. Kohli denied being asked by Sourav Ganguly to reconsider his decision of quitting as T20I captain and even told that he had no prior communication with the board or selectors being his sacking as 50-overs skipper. In addition, he rubbished claims made by a board member that he was willing to skip the SA ODIs due to personal reasons. Hence, Kohli vs BCCI row has been much-talked about in recent times. Former Pakistan captain and all-rounder Shahid Afridi has opened up on the entire controversy and feels it could've been handled in a better way. ALSO READ | IPL 2022 in 3 cities? BCCI to discuss Plan B with all franchises as Omicron threat looms large in India Afridi, speaking to Pakistani news channel Samaa TV, said, "This could have been handled in a better way. I always feel that the role of a cricket board is very important; it plays the role of a father. Whatever future plans a selection committee of a board has regarding a player, it communicates those plans to that player, like, 'Look, we have these plans, what are your plans? We want to do this and as a board, we see benefits from doing this." He added, "If you communicate these things via media, there will be issues. Talk face-to-face, and we might have solutions. This won't be solved if you keep dragging it. There should be no communication gap between players and PCB, or any board for that matter." ALSO READ | Ganguly had no business to speak on behalf of selection committee: Vengsarkar on BCCI-Kohli captaincy row At present, Ganguly has made it clear that BCCI will not react to Kohli's presser in a flash and do it at the right time. On the other hand, Kohli-led Indian team is in South Africa for the three-match Test series in the African nation. The first Test will get underway on December 26 in Centurion.

This won't be solved if you keep dragging it: Shahid Afridi reacts to BCCI vs Virat Kohli captaincy saga

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