Covid-19 pandemic is not yet over. The world has been through a lot ever since the pandemic wreaked havoc across the globe in early 2020. Just when one and all thought that they were in control of the Covid-19 crisis, another variant has emerged out of nowhere, i.e. the Omicron variant. Thus, things are again going out of hand with rising cases and panic across the globe.

In India, the cases are rising at a some pace and things are expected to get worse by early February, with many speculating a third wave by then. Hence, once again many top political gatherings, big-ticket events and sporting tournaments can get affected due to the Omicron variant. In this regard, the IPL 2022 edition can also get severely dented and, hence, the BCCI is looking to discuss Plan B with all franchises and can go ahead with conducting the mega tournament in only three cities.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/not-virat-kohli-shadab-khan-names-star-indian-opener-and-david-warner-as-toughest-batter-to-bowl-at-439078">Not Virat Kohli! Shadab Khan names star Indian opener and David Warner as 'toughest batter to bowl' at</a>

As per a report in&nbsp;Cricbuzz, the BCCI is looking to call a meeting with franchise owners in January, 2022 where they can discuss and prepare an alternate strategy to conduct the 15th edition of the league. Though the primary objective remains to host the tournament across the country in the usual home-away format, the Omicron threat can cause severe problems.

As per the portal, the Sourav Ganguly-led BCCI is eyeing to begin the 15th edition on April 02 next year in Chennai. However, if the situation worsens due to the Omicron scare, the board might contemplate organising&nbsp;the tournament in just one or two states.

"The meeting will be mainly introductory in nature with the BCCI on-boarding the owners of the two new teams - Lucknow and Ahmedabad. They are also exploring the idea of holding the whole tournament just in Mumbai and Pune or in the Gujarat cities of Ahmedabad, Baroda and Rajkot if the Covid/Omicron situation worsens.&nbsp;

"The owners will be apprised of the alternatives as well as things to look forward to in the mega auction," multiple franchise owners confirmed to&nbsp;Cricbuzz.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2022-mega-auction-dates-finalised-to-take-place-in-bengaluru-on-february-12-and-13-report-439205">IPL 2022 mega auction dates finalised, to take place in Bengaluru on February 12 and 13: Report</a>

As of now, the BCCI have called all the ten franchises and informed them about the dates of the mega auction, before IPL 2022 edition. The forthcoming auction proceedings is very likely to take place on February 12 and 13 in Bengaluru, although an official confirmation from the board is still awaited.&nbsp;

The MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings (CSK) won the IPL 2021 edition, which was the first-ever season to be held in two halves (in India and the UAE) due to second wave of Covid-19. On the other hand, IPL 2020 was taken entirely out of India and held in the UAE after months of delay following the Covid outbreak worldwide.

Covid-19 pandemic is not yet over. The world has been through a lot ever since the pandemic wreaked havoc across the globe in early 2020. Just when one and all thought that they were in control of the Covid-19 crisis, another variant has emerged out of nowhere, i.

Covid-19 pandemic is not yet over. The world has been through a lot ever since the pandemic wreaked havoc across the globe in early 2020. Just when one and all thought that they were in control of the Covid-19 crisis, another variant has emerged out of nowhere, i.e. the Omicron variant. Thus, things are again going out of hand with rising cases and panic across the globe. In India, the cases are rising at a some pace and things are expected to get worse by early February, with many speculating a third wave by then. Hence, once again many top political gatherings, big-ticket events and sporting tournaments can get affected due to the Omicron variant. In this regard, the IPL 2022 edition can also get severely dented and, hence, the BCCI is looking to discuss Plan B with all franchises and can go ahead with conducting the mega tournament in only three cities. ALSO READ | Not Virat Kohli! Shadab Khan names star Indian opener and David Warner as 'toughest batter to bowl' at As per a report in Cricbuzz, the BCCI is looking to call a meeting with franchise owners in January, 2022 where they can discuss and prepare an alternate strategy to conduct the 15th edition of the league. Though the primary objective remains to host the tournament across the country in the usual home-away format, the Omicron threat can cause severe problems. As per the portal, the Sourav Ganguly-led BCCI is eyeing to begin the 15th edition on April 02 next year in Chennai. However, if the situation worsens due to the Omicron scare, the board might contemplate organising the tournament in just one or two states. "The meeting will be mainly introductory in nature with the BCCI on-boarding the owners of the two new teams - Lucknow and Ahmedabad. They are also exploring the idea of holding the whole tournament just in Mumbai and Pune or in the Gujarat cities of Ahmedabad, Baroda and Rajkot if the Covid/Omicron situation worsens. "The owners will be apprised of the alternatives as well as things to look forward to in the mega auction," multiple franchise owners confirmed to Cricbuzz. ALSO READ | IPL 2022 mega auction dates finalised, to take place in Bengaluru on February 12 and 13: Report As of now, the BCCI have called all the ten franchises and informed them about the dates of the mega auction, before IPL 2022 edition. The forthcoming auction proceedings is very likely to take place on February 12 and 13 in Bengaluru, although an official confirmation from the board is still awaited. The MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings (CSK) won the IPL 2021 edition, which was the first-ever season to be held in two halves (in India and the UAE) due to second wave of Covid-19. On the other hand, IPL 2020 was taken entirely out of India and held in the UAE after months of delay following the Covid outbreak worldwide.

IPL 2022 in 3 cities? BCCI to discuss Plan B with all franchises as Omicron threat looms large in India

Liverpool&nbsp;came from two goals down to beat Leicester on penalties after a pulsating League Cup quarter-final ended 3-3 at Anfield as Tottenham and Chelsea also made the semi-finals on Wednesday.

Spurs were 2-1 winners over West Ham and will face Chelsea in the last four after they needed two late goals to see off Brentford 2-0.

Liverpool&nbsp;will take on Arsenal in the semi-finals over two legs in January.

All three matches went ahead in front of full crowds despite the worrying rise of coronavirus case numbers that had seen last weekend's Premier League schedule decimated by call offs.

Leicester's previous two fixtures had been called off due to a combination of a coronavirus outbreak in the squad and a mounting injury list.

However, Brendan Rodgers was able to name a close to full strength side on his return to Anfield and it showed early on against a much-changed&nbsp;Liverpool.

Jamie Vardy struck twice inside the first 13 minutes as he angled a drive across Caoimhin Kelleher and then tapped in Patson Daka's pass from close range.

Jurgen Klopp had made 10 changes from the side that drew 2-2 at Tottenham on Sunday with&nbsp;Liverpool&nbsp;also depleted by four positive Covid cases.

However, it was one of their more experienced starters who got them back in the game as Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain smashed home from the edge of the area.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/la-liga-isco-david-alaba-join-six-other-players-in-real-madrid-covid-19-list-439083">La Liga: Isco, David Alaba join six other players in Real Madrid Covid-19 list</a>

Leicester restored their two-goal cushion before half-time thanks to James Maddison's piledriver from 30 yards that flew past Kelleher.

Klopp introduced three first-team regulars at half-time and one of them, Diogo Jota, gave&nbsp;Liverpool&nbsp;life again 22 minutes from time.

Kasper Schmeichel then needed to produce a stunning save to deny the Portuguese a second, but Leicester still could not hold out as Takumi Minamino sent the game to penalties in the fifth minute of stoppage time.

Minamino then missed with the chance to win the tie from the spot in the shootout, but Kelleher saved from Luke Thomas and Ryan Bertrand before Jota fired home the winning penalty.

<h2>Bergwijn ends goal drought</h2>

Tottenham boss Antonio Conte showed his determination to end the club's 13-year trophy drought as soon as possible as he named Harry Kane among a strong starting line-up.

But it was the other two of Spurs' front three who were on target in north London.

Steven Bergwijn scored his first goal of the season after two clever one-twos with Pierre Emile Hojbjerg.

Tottenham's lead lasted just three minutes as West Ham seized upon Eric Dier's slack pass and Jarrod Bowen fired low past Hugo Lloris.

Two minutes later it was 2-1 as Bergwijn this time turned provider for Moura to prod home from close range.

"In England it's very difficult to win something," said Conte, who will come up against his old club in the last four.

"It's good for Tottenham to reach the semi-finals of this competition. You can see the names of these teams that have reached the semi-finals -&nbsp;Liverpool, Chelsea and Arsenal with us - so every side wants to try to lift this trophy."

ALSO&nbsp; READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/serie-a-juventus-thrash-cagliari-2-0-salernitana-udinese-game-suspended-due-to-covid-19-cases-438995">Serie A: Juventus thrash Cagliari 2-0, Salernitana-Udinese game suspended due to COVID-19 cases</a>

Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel handed debuts to academy prospects Harvey Vale, Jude Soonsup-Bell and Xavier Simons with the Blues short of seven players due to a Covid outbreak.

However, Tuchel emptied his bench in the second half with the introduction of N'Golo Kante, Mason Mount, Christian Pulisic, Reece James and Jorginho.

And that extra quality made the difference as Pontus Jansson turned James' cross into his own net 10 minutes from time.

Jorginho then stroked home a penalty after Pulisic had been upended in the box.

Liverpool came from two goals down to beat Leicester on penalties after a pulsating League Cup quarter-final ended 3-3 at Anfield as Tottenham and Chelsea also made the semi-finals on Wednesday.

Liverpool came from two goals down to beat Leicester on penalties after a pulsating League Cup quarter-final ended 3-3 at Anfield as Tottenham and Chelsea also made the semi-finals on Wednesday. Spurs were 2-1 winners over West Ham and will face Chelsea in the last four after they needed two late goals to see off Brentford 2-0. Liverpool will take on Arsenal in the semi-finals over two legs in January. All three matches went ahead in front of full crowds despite the worrying rise of coronavirus case numbers that had seen last weekend's Premier League schedule decimated by call offs. Leicester's previous two fixtures had been called off due to a combination of a coronavirus outbreak in the squad and a mounting injury list. However, Brendan Rodgers was able to name a close to full strength side on his return to Anfield and it showed early on against a much-changed Liverpool. Jamie Vardy struck twice inside the first 13 minutes as he angled a drive across Caoimhin Kelleher and then tapped in Patson Daka's pass from close range. Jurgen Klopp had made 10 changes from the side that drew 2-2 at Tottenham on Sunday with Liverpool also depleted by four positive Covid cases. However, it was one of their more experienced starters who got them back in the game as Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain smashed home from the edge of the area. ALSO READ: La Liga: Isco, David Alaba join six other players in Real Madrid Covid-19 list Leicester restored their two-goal cushion before half-time thanks to James Maddison's piledriver from 30 yards that flew past Kelleher. Klopp introduced three first-team regulars at half-time and one of them, Diogo Jota, gave Liverpool life again 22 minutes from time. Kasper Schmeichel then needed to produce a stunning save to deny the Portuguese a second, but Leicester still could not hold out as Takumi Minamino sent the game to penalties in the fifth minute of stoppage time. Minamino then missed with the chance to win the tie from the spot in the shootout, but Kelleher saved from Luke Thomas and Ryan Bertrand before Jota fired home the winning penalty. Bergwijn ends goal drought Tottenham boss Antonio Conte showed his determination to end the club's 13-year trophy drought as soon as possible as he named Harry Kane among a strong starting line-up. But it was the other two of Spurs' front three who were on target in north London. Steven Bergwijn scored his first goal of the season after two clever one-twos with Pierre Emile Hojbjerg. Tottenham's lead lasted just three minutes as West Ham seized upon Eric Dier's slack pass and Jarrod Bowen fired low past Hugo Lloris. Two minutes later it was 2-1 as Bergwijn this time turned provider for Moura to prod home from close range. "In England it's very difficult to win something," said Conte, who will come up against his old club in the last four. "It's good for Tottenham to reach the semi-finals of this competition. You can see the names of these teams that have reached the semi-finals - Liverpool, Chelsea and Arsenal with us - so every side wants to try to lift this trophy." ALSO READ: Serie A: Juventus thrash Cagliari 2-0, Salernitana-Udinese game suspended due to COVID-19 cases Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel handed debuts to academy prospects Harvey Vale, Jude Soonsup-Bell and Xavier Simons with the Blues short of seven players due to a Covid outbreak. However, Tuchel emptied his bench in the second half with the introduction of N'Golo Kante, Mason Mount, Christian Pulisic, Reece James and Jorginho. And that extra quality made the difference as Pontus Jansson turned James' cross into his own net 10 minutes from time. Jorginho then stroked home a penalty after Pulisic had been upended in the box.

League Cup: Liverpool beat Leicester in penalty shootout, Chelsea and Spurs qualify for semis

Australian Open boss Craig Tiley feels organising the 2022 edition of the Grand Slam has been "10 times" more difficult than this year's edition as the highly infectious Omicron variant of COVID-19 takes hold Down Under.

Tiley and his team put in a Herculean effort to stage the tournament safely in February when Australia still had its borders closed, spending a fortune on biosecurity measures to reassure the local community.

Twelve months on and things have not got any easier for Tennis Australia with Omicron spreading through the country just as the first players are set to arrive for warm-up events ahead of the Melbourne Park tournament.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cant-risk-picking-up-further-injury-dominic-thiem-withdraws-from-atp-cup-and-sydney-atp-250-438328">'Can't risk picking up further injury', Dominic Thiem withdraws from ATP Cup and Sydney ATP 250</a>

"2022 has been 10 times harder than 2021," Tiley said. "It was a walk in the park in comparison to this one.

"2021 was hard but it hasn't been easy. So many variables. It`s something new, but you wake up in the morning with your team and you just hope they hang in there."

While 1,000 players and staff who arrived from abroad were put into a two-week quarantine for the 2021 edition, the 3,300 coming for next year`s tournament will be free to roam the city once they have returned a negative PCR test.

Everybody in the Melbourne Park precinct in January will need to be vaccinated or hold a medical exemption granted by the Australian health authorities.

That in itself will present a challenge to manage but full crowds will offer Tennis Australia the chance to recoup some of the A$100 million ($72.2 million) they lost in the 15 months around the 2021 tournament.

Tiley still expected some participants to test positive for the virus but confirmed that, unlike last year, close contacts will have to isolate only until they return a negative test.

"If they are sharing a room with someone, or they're in the same apartment and someone in that group tests positive, everyone in that room or that apartment has to isolate for seven days," Tiley added.

"So the advice we've given the players, it`s a simple one, 'get your own room'."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/chinese-reporter-posts-fresh-unverified-footage-of-tennis-star-peng-shuai-online-watch-438150">Chinese reporter posts fresh unverified footage of Tennis star Peng Shuai online- WATCH</a>

Tiley was confident the organisers will be able to efficiently manage the health protocols and the tournament will start without any delay on Jan. 17.

"In 2021 we were about protecting the community from the players which were coming from environments that were ravaged with the virus that we didn't have," Tiley said.

"In 2022, it's about keeping the players and our patrons on site from not getting Omicron, not getting any variants of the virus."

($1 = 1.3843 Australian dollars)

Australian Open boss Craig Tiley feels organising the 2022 edition of the Grand Slam has been "10 times" more difficult than this year's edition as the highly infectious Omicron variant of COVID-19 takes hold Down Under.

Australian Open boss Craig Tiley feels organising the 2022 edition of the Grand Slam has been "10 times" more difficult than this year's edition as the highly infectious Omicron variant of COVID-19 takes hold Down Under. Tiley and his team put in a Herculean effort to stage the tournament safely in February when Australia still had its borders closed, spending a fortune on biosecurity measures to reassure the local community. Twelve months on and things have not got any easier for Tennis Australia with Omicron spreading through the country just as the first players are set to arrive for warm-up events ahead of the Melbourne Park tournament. ALSO READ: 'Can't risk picking up further injury', Dominic Thiem withdraws from ATP Cup and Sydney ATP 250 "2022 has been 10 times harder than 2021," Tiley said. "It was a walk in the park in comparison to this one. "2021 was hard but it hasn't been easy. So many variables. It`s something new, but you wake up in the morning with your team and you just hope they hang in there." While 1,000 players and staff who arrived from abroad were put into a two-week quarantine for the 2021 edition, the 3,300 coming for next year`s tournament will be free to roam the city once they have returned a negative PCR test. Everybody in the Melbourne Park precinct in January will need to be vaccinated or hold a medical exemption granted by the Australian health authorities. That in itself will present a challenge to manage but full crowds will offer Tennis Australia the chance to recoup some of the A$100 million ($72.2 million) they lost in the 15 months around the 2021 tournament. Tiley still expected some participants to test positive for the virus but confirmed that, unlike last year, close contacts will have to isolate only until they return a negative test. "If they are sharing a room with someone, or they're in the same apartment and someone in that group tests positive, everyone in that room or that apartment has to isolate for seven days," Tiley added. "So the advice we've given the players, it`s a simple one, 'get your own room'." ALSO READ: Chinese reporter posts fresh unverified footage of Tennis star Peng Shuai online- WATCH Tiley was confident the organisers will be able to efficiently manage the health protocols and the tournament will start without any delay on Jan. 17. "In 2021 we were about protecting the community from the players which were coming from environments that were ravaged with the virus that we didn't have," Tiley said. "In 2022, it's about keeping the players and our patrons on site from not getting Omicron, not getting any variants of the virus." ($1 = 1.3843 Australian dollars)

Organizing for 2022 has been 10 times harder than 2021, says Australian Open boss Craig Tiley

IPL 2022 mega auction is set to take place in the garden city of India, i.e. Bengaluru, on February 12 and 13. While an official confirmation from the BCCI is still pending, it is believed that the board is set to go ahead with the said dates for the two-day affair.

As per a report in Cricbuzz, the BCCI have also informed all the franchises about the above-mentioned dates for the mega auction, which is set to see some big players go under the hammer. During their calls to the franchises on Thursday morning (December 23), the BCCI insisted that the dates remain final despite it clashing with an ODI between India and West Indies. After the South Africa tour, India will host Sri Lanka which will be followed by a limited-overs tour of Kieron Pollard-led West Indies.&nbsp;

The India-Windies third and final ODI is set to take place on February 12, at Eden Gardens, Kolkata, but the BCCI has assured the franchises that the match will have no bearing on the auction proceedings, which will be held in mid-February in Bengaluru.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/countdown-begins-ipl-2022-mega-auction-likely-to-be-held-on-feb-7-and-8-in-bengaluru-report-439104">Countdown begins! IPL 2022 mega auction likely to be held on Feb 7 and 8 in Bengaluru: Report</a>

Earlier, it was reported that the mega auction was set to take place in early January, 2022. However, it got&nbsp;delayed as a result of lack of clarity regarding the Ahmedabad franchise's future ever since the Sourav Ganguly-led BCCI initiated an inquiry on CVC Capital Partners' association with betting firms. Nonetheless, it is reported that the CVC Capitals is set to get a clean chit from the board, allowing it to own the Ahmedabad franchise.&nbsp;

For the unversed, star players such as KL Rahul, Rashid Khan, Shreyas Iyer, Eoin Morgan, David Warner, Suresh Raina, Shikhar Dhawan, R Ashwin and many others have not been retained by the eight existing franchises. Hence, the two new IPL teams -- such as Ahmedabad and Lucknow -- will get a chance to pick three players each before the auction whereas a bulk of them are set to go under the hammer in the star-studded event in Bengaluru on February 12 and 13.

IPL 2022 mega auction is set to take place in the garden city of India, i.e. Bengaluru, on February 12 and 13. While an official confirmation from the BCCI is still pending, it is believed that the board is set to go ahead with the said dates for the two-day affair.

IPL 2022 mega auction is set to take place in the garden city of India, i.e. Bengaluru, on February 12 and 13. While an official confirmation from the BCCI is still pending, it is believed that the board is set to go ahead with the said dates for the two-day affair. As per a report in Cricbuzz, the BCCI have also informed all the franchises about the above-mentioned dates for the mega auction, which is set to see some big players go under the hammer. During their calls to the franchises on Thursday morning (December 23), the BCCI insisted that the dates remain final despite it clashing with an ODI between India and West Indies. After the South Africa tour, India will host Sri Lanka which will be followed by a limited-overs tour of Kieron Pollard-led West Indies. The India-Windies third and final ODI is set to take place on February 12, at Eden Gardens, Kolkata, but the BCCI has assured the franchises that the match will have no bearing on the auction proceedings, which will be held in mid-February in Bengaluru. ALSO READ | Countdown begins! IPL 2022 mega auction likely to be held on Feb 7 and 8 in Bengaluru: Report Earlier, it was reported that the mega auction was set to take place in early January, 2022. However, it got delayed as a result of lack of clarity regarding the Ahmedabad franchise's future ever since the Sourav Ganguly-led BCCI initiated an inquiry on CVC Capital Partners' association with betting firms. Nonetheless, it is reported that the CVC Capitals is set to get a clean chit from the board, allowing it to own the Ahmedabad franchise. For the unversed, star players such as KL Rahul, Rashid Khan, Shreyas Iyer, Eoin Morgan, David Warner, Suresh Raina, Shikhar Dhawan, R Ashwin and many others have not been retained by the eight existing franchises. Hence, the two new IPL teams -- such as Ahmedabad and Lucknow -- will get a chance to pick three players each before the auction whereas a bulk of them are set to go under the hammer in the star-studded event in Bengaluru on February 12 and 13.

IPL 2022 mega auction dates finalised, to take place in Bengaluru on February 12 and 13: Report

Kerala Blasters FC recorded an impressive second consecutive win in their 2021-22 Indian Super League (ISL) campaign after defeating Chennaiyin FC with a 3-0 scoreline at the Tilak Maidan Stadium on Wednesday.

The Yellow Army rise to third place in the points table while handing the Marina Machans their second defeat of the season, which sees them drop to sixth.

Jorge Pereyra Diaz (9') gave KBFC the lead by scoring his third goal of the campaign prior to Sahal Abdul Samad (38`) doubling the advantage before halftime. Adrian Luna (79') then scored his first goal of the season to put the result beyond any doubt in the second half.

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3 goals ✅ 
Clean sheet ✅ 
WE MOVE! 💪🏼<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CFCKBFC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CFCKBFC</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/YennumYellow?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#YennumYellow</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KBFC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KBFC</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/%E0%B4%95%E0%B5%87%E0%B4%B0%E0%B4%B3%E0%B4%AC%E0%B5%8D%E0%B4%B2%E0%B4%BE%E0%B4%B8%E0%B5%8D%E0%B4%B1%E0%B5%8D%E0%B4%B1%E0%B5%87%E0%B4%B4%E0%B5%8D%E0%B4%B8%E0%B5%8D?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#കേരളബ്ലാസ്റ്റേഴ്സ്</a> <a href="https://t.co/E8Ytg6eFdC">pic.twitter.com/E8Ytg6eFdC</a>
— K e r a l a B l a s t e r s F C (@KeralaBlasters) <a href="https://twitter.com/KeralaBlasters/status/1473684864809451522?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 22, 2021</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/la-liga-isco-david-alaba-join-six-other-players-in-real-madrid-covid-19-list-439083">La Liga: Isco, David Alaba join six other players in Real Madrid Covid-19 list</a>

Jorge Diaz sent his team into an early lead after a lofted through ball found the striker in ample space behind CFC`s backline. His right-footed shot towards the bottom left corner gave no chance to Vishal Kaith to make a save.

Prabhsukhan Gill was called into action just before the half-hour mark who made a brilliant right-handed save to keep away a header from his own defender. Germanpreet Singh had a fabulous opportunity to score the equaliser just before the drinks break but his shot from roughly 12-yards out went wide to the shock of his teammates.

Sahal Abdul Samad then extended the lead by scoring from inside the box after a poor clearance from Kaith handed the ball to KBFC forwards in his own half. Sahal`s initial shot was blocked by Reagan Singh but the midfielder made no mistake with the rebound and calmly placed the ball in the back of the net.

Vazquez then had the chance to score a third before halftime but he could not beat the goalkeeper from a one-on-one situation.

Salam Singh and Lukasz Gikiewicz were sent as halftime changes from Bozidar Bandovic to influence the game. Lalthathanga Khawlhring became the first player to get booked for a foul in the second half which was less eventful than the first. Despite sustained periods of pressure, CFC did not have a clear scoring opportunity until the second drinks break.

ALSO&nbsp; READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/serie-a-juventus-thrash-cagliari-2-0-salernitana-udinese-game-suspended-due-to-covid-19-cases-438995">Serie A: Juventus thrash Cagliari 2-0, Salernitana-Udinese game suspended due to COVID-19 cases</a>

Post the resumption of the match, Adrian Luna opened his account with a powerful right-footed strike following a lack of communication amongst the CFC defenders. The Yellow Army remained in control of the match post the third goal and secured another three points with back-to-back 3-0 wins.

Kerala Blasters FC awaits the challenge of Jamshedpur FC in their next game at the Tilak Maidan Stadium on Sunday.

Chennaiyin FC on the other hand will get a week`s rest before their clash against Bengaluru FC at the same venue on Thursday.&nbsp;

Kerala Blasters FC recorded an impressive second consecutive win in their 2021-22 Indian Super League (ISL) campaign after defeating Chennaiyin FC with a 3-0 scoreline at the Tilak Maidan Stadium on Wednesday.

Kerala Blasters FC recorded an impressive second consecutive win in their 2021-22 Indian Super League (ISL) campaign after defeating Chennaiyin FC with a 3-0 scoreline at the Tilak Maidan Stadium on Wednesday. The Yellow Army rise to third place in the points table while handing the Marina Machans their second defeat of the season, which sees them drop to sixth. Jorge Pereyra Diaz (9') gave KBFC the lead by scoring his third goal of the campaign prior to Sahal Abdul Samad (38`) doubling the advantage before halftime. Adrian Luna (79') then scored his first goal of the season to put the result beyond any doubt in the second half. 3 goals ✅ Clean sheet ✅ WE MOVE! 💪🏼#CFCKBFC #YennumYellow #KBFC #കേരളബ്ലാസ്റ്റേഴ്സ് pic.twitter.com/E8Ytg6eFdC — K e r a l a B l a s t e r s F C (@KeralaBlasters) December 22, 2021 × ALSO READ: La Liga: Isco, David Alaba join six other players in Real Madrid Covid-19 list Jorge Diaz sent his team into an early lead after a lofted through ball found the striker in ample space behind CFC`s backline. His right-footed shot towards the bottom left corner gave no chance to Vishal Kaith to make a save. Prabhsukhan Gill was called into action just before the half-hour mark who made a brilliant right-handed save to keep away a header from his own defender. Germanpreet Singh had a fabulous opportunity to score the equaliser just before the drinks break but his shot from roughly 12-yards out went wide to the shock of his teammates. Sahal Abdul Samad then extended the lead by scoring from inside the box after a poor clearance from Kaith handed the ball to KBFC forwards in his own half. Sahal`s initial shot was blocked by Reagan Singh but the midfielder made no mistake with the rebound and calmly placed the ball in the back of the net. Vazquez then had the chance to score a third before halftime but he could not beat the goalkeeper from a one-on-one situation. Salam Singh and Lukasz Gikiewicz were sent as halftime changes from Bozidar Bandovic to influence the game. Lalthathanga Khawlhring became the first player to get booked for a foul in the second half which was less eventful than the first. Despite sustained periods of pressure, CFC did not have a clear scoring opportunity until the second drinks break. ALSO READ: Serie A: Juventus thrash Cagliari 2-0, Salernitana-Udinese game suspended due to COVID-19 cases Post the resumption of the match, Adrian Luna opened his account with a powerful right-footed strike following a lack of communication amongst the CFC defenders. The Yellow Army remained in control of the match post the third goal and secured another three points with back-to-back 3-0 wins. Kerala Blasters FC awaits the challenge of Jamshedpur FC in their next game at the Tilak Maidan Stadium on Sunday. Chennaiyin FC on the other hand will get a week`s rest before their clash against Bengaluru FC at the same venue on Thursday.

ISL 2021-22: Kerala Blasters FC thrash Chennaiyin FC 3-0, climb to third spot in points table

Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Ramiz Raja on Wednesday said the recent controversy surrounding spinner Yasir Shah is not good for cricket in the country.

Shah was booked in a case registered at Islamabad's Shalimar Police Station for allegedly aiding in the rape and harassment of a 14-year-old minor girl.

In the first information report (FIR) that has been registered, the girl stated that Yasir Shah's friend Farhan had allegedly raped her at gunpoint and then filmed the act, reported geo.tv.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pakistan-test-opener-abid-ali-undergoes-angioplasty-after-being-diagnosed-with-acute-coronary-syndrome-439057">Pakistan Test opener Abid Ali undergoes angioplasty after being diagnosed with acute coronary syndrome</a>

"Yasir Shah is a circuit player and it is a no-brainer on whom players need to hang out with and socialise with, while we train and educate these players, they are in ambassadorial positions and should know with whom and where to socialise," said Raja while addressing media on Wednesday.

"I don't know what is the truth in this case but it is a fact that such headlines are not good for Pakistan cricket and especially at a time when there is a feel-good factor going through Pakistan Cricket now," he added.

The girl had further stated that Yasir Shah had warned her of severe consequences if she went to the authorities to tell about the incident. "Yasir Shah said that he was a very influential person and that he knew a high-ranking official.

Yasir Shah and Farhan make videos and rape underage girls," she has stated in the FIR, as reported by geo.tv.

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>

Responding to the entire incident, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) had said: "The PCB is presently gathering information at its end and will only offer a comment when in possession of complete facts."

Yasir Shah has played 46 Tests for Pakistan, managing to take 235 wickets with his best figures being 8-41.

Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Ramiz Raja on Wednesday said the recent controversy surrounding spinner Yasir Shah is not good for cricket in the country. Shah was booked in a case registered at Islamabad's Shalimar Police Station for allegedly aiding in the rape and harassment of a 14-year-old minor girl.

Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Ramiz Raja on Wednesday said the recent controversy surrounding spinner Yasir Shah is not good for cricket in the country. Shah was booked in a case registered at Islamabad's Shalimar Police Station for allegedly aiding in the rape and harassment of a 14-year-old minor girl. In the first information report (FIR) that has been registered, the girl stated that Yasir Shah's friend Farhan had allegedly raped her at gunpoint and then filmed the act, reported geo.tv. ALSO READ: Pakistan Test opener Abid Ali undergoes angioplasty after being diagnosed with acute coronary syndrome "Yasir Shah is a circuit player and it is a no-brainer on whom players need to hang out with and socialise with, while we train and educate these players, they are in ambassadorial positions and should know with whom and where to socialise," said Raja while addressing media on Wednesday. "I don't know what is the truth in this case but it is a fact that such headlines are not good for Pakistan cricket and especially at a time when there is a feel-good factor going through Pakistan Cricket now," he added. The girl had further stated that Yasir Shah had warned her of severe consequences if she went to the authorities to tell about the incident. "Yasir Shah said that he was a very influential person and that he knew a high-ranking official. Yasir Shah and Farhan make videos and rape underage girls," she has stated in the FIR, as reported by geo.tv. ALSO READ: ICC Rankings: Labuschagne dethrones Root to become No. 1 Test batter, Babar reclaims top spot in T20Is Responding to the entire incident, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) had said: "The PCB is presently gathering information at its end and will only offer a comment when in possession of complete facts." Yasir Shah has played 46 Tests for Pakistan, managing to take 235 wickets with his best figures being 8-41.

Yasir Shah controversy not good when there is a feel-good factor going through Pakistan Cricket: Ramiz Raja

The National Hockey League said on Wednesday it will not send its players to compete in the men's ice hockey tournament at the Beijing Winter Olympics after the regular season schedule was disrupted due to a surge in COVID-19 cases.

"Unfortunately, given the profound disruption to the NHL's regular-season schedule caused by recent COVID-related events -- 50 games already have been postponed through Dec. 23 -- Olympic participation is no longer feasible," NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman said.

The NHL agreed last September to pause its regular season so the world's top players could compete in Beijing but could withdraw from the agreement if COVID-19 disruptions forced games to be rescheduled during the Olympics window.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/most-countries-wont-join-diplomatic-boycott-of-beijing-winter-olympics-says-ioc-president-thomas-bach-437195">Most countries won't join diplomatic boycott of Beijing Winter Olympics, says IOC President Thomas Bach</a>

With COVID-19 spreading through team locker rooms, the NHL, in an attempt to combat the outbreak, brought its Christmas break forward to shut down operations from Wednesday through to Dec. 27.

The NHL had until Jan. 10 to withdraw from the Feb. 4-20 Olympics without financial penalty.

The decision comes as a huge disappointment for players, who had negotiated a return to the Olympics into the current Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA).

"Since the CBA extension was reached 17 months ago, NHL players have looked forward with great anticipation to once again participating in the Winter Olympics," said NHL Players’ Association (NHLPA) Executive Director Don Fehr in a statement.

"Until very recently, we seemed to be on a clear path to go to Beijing.

"COVID-19 has unfortunately intervened, forcing dozens of games to be postponed this month alone. No matter how much we wish it were not the case, we need to utilize the Olympic period to reschedule these games."

The NHL, unhappy over the prospect of interrupting a regular season to send their most valuable assets overseas where they could get hurt, ended a run of participation in five consecutive Winter Olympics when it decided not to go to Pyeongchang in 2018.

The presence of NHL players at the Olympics made the men`s ice hockey tournament one of the marquee events of the global sporting showcase.

Countries will now have to quickly put a Plan B in place.

For Canada and the United States, which would have sent teams stocked completely with NHL players, that will mean a top to bottom overhaul cobbling together a roster from other leagues.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/winter-olympics-china-warns-australia-uk-us-for-diplomatic-boycott-says-will-pay-price-for-wrong-acts-435445">Winter Olympics: China warns Australia, UK, US for diplomatic boycott, says 'will pay price for wrong acts'</a>

Other countries, such as Sweden, Finland, Russia, Germany and Czech Republic, will also have big holes to fill with many of their best players also in the NHL.

Sweden, home to one of the most competitive leagues outside the NHL, said it had been preparing for the possibility that NHL players would not be available.

"We are prepared for a situation where the NHL players don`t take part in the Olympics," Johan Hemline, head of hockey operations at the Swedish Hockey League (SHL), told Reuters in an interview. "It has been a possible scenario for some time, and we are prepared."

The National Hockey League said on Wednesday it will not send its players to compete in the men's ice hockey tournament at the Beijing Winter Olympics after the regular season schedule was disrupted due to a surge in COVID-19 cases.

The National Hockey League said on Wednesday it will not send its players to compete in the men's ice hockey tournament at the Beijing Winter Olympics after the regular season schedule was disrupted due to a surge in COVID-19 cases. "Unfortunately, given the profound disruption to the NHL's regular-season schedule caused by recent COVID-related events -- 50 games already have been postponed through Dec. 23 -- Olympic participation is no longer feasible," NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman said. The NHL agreed last September to pause its regular season so the world's top players could compete in Beijing but could withdraw from the agreement if COVID-19 disruptions forced games to be rescheduled during the Olympics window. ALSO READ: Most countries won't join diplomatic boycott of Beijing Winter Olympics, says IOC President Thomas Bach With COVID-19 spreading through team locker rooms, the NHL, in an attempt to combat the outbreak, brought its Christmas break forward to shut down operations from Wednesday through to Dec. 27. The NHL had until Jan. 10 to withdraw from the Feb. 4-20 Olympics without financial penalty. The decision comes as a huge disappointment for players, who had negotiated a return to the Olympics into the current Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA). "Since the CBA extension was reached 17 months ago, NHL players have looked forward with great anticipation to once again participating in the Winter Olympics," said NHL Players’ Association (NHLPA) Executive Director Don Fehr in a statement. "Until very recently, we seemed to be on a clear path to go to Beijing. "COVID-19 has unfortunately intervened, forcing dozens of games to be postponed this month alone. No matter how much we wish it were not the case, we need to utilize the Olympic period to reschedule these games." The NHL, unhappy over the prospect of interrupting a regular season to send their most valuable assets overseas where they could get hurt, ended a run of participation in five consecutive Winter Olympics when it decided not to go to Pyeongchang in 2018. The presence of NHL players at the Olympics made the men`s ice hockey tournament one of the marquee events of the global sporting showcase. Countries will now have to quickly put a Plan B in place. For Canada and the United States, which would have sent teams stocked completely with NHL players, that will mean a top to bottom overhaul cobbling together a roster from other leagues. ALSO READ: Winter Olympics: China warns Australia, UK, US for diplomatic boycott, says 'will pay price for wrong acts' Other countries, such as Sweden, Finland, Russia, Germany and Czech Republic, will also have big holes to fill with many of their best players also in the NHL. Sweden, home to one of the most competitive leagues outside the NHL, said it had been preparing for the possibility that NHL players would not be available. "We are prepared for a situation where the NHL players don`t take part in the Olympics," Johan Hemline, head of hockey operations at the Swedish Hockey League (SHL), told Reuters in an interview. "It has been a possible scenario for some time, and we are prepared."

NHL says won't send players for Beijing Games after regular season disrupted due to surge in COVID-19 cases

Spanish midfielder Isco and Austrian defender&nbsp;David&nbsp;Alaba&nbsp;have joined Real Madrid's list of players contracting Covid-19, the Liga leaders announced on Tuesday.

"Real Madrid C. F. confirm our players Isco and&nbsp;David&nbsp;Alaba&nbsp;have tested positive for COVID-19," the club said in a statement.

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Comunicado Oficial.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RealMadrid?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RealMadrid</a>
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The pair join six other players recovering from the virus -- Marco Asensio, Gareth Bale, Andriy Lunin, Rodrygo, Luka Modric and Marcelo -- and assistant coach Davide Ancelotti, son of head coach Carlo Ancelotti.

Real play Athletic Bilbao on Wednesday.

ALSO&nbsp; READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/serie-a-juventus-thrash-cagliari-2-0-salernitana-udinese-game-suspended-due-to-covid-19-cases-438995">Serie A: Juventus thrash Cagliari 2-0, Salernitana-Udinese game suspended due to COVID-19 cases</a>

Under Liga protocols, a club must have at least 13 players, at least five of them first-teamers and one a goalkeeper, available to play a match.&nbsp;

Vaccinated players can return as soon as they test negative.&nbsp;

Spanish midfielder Isco and Austrian defender David Alaba have joined Real Madrid's list of players contracting Covid-19, the Liga leaders announced on Tuesday. "Real Madrid C.

Spanish midfielder Isco and Austrian defender David Alaba have joined Real Madrid's list of players contracting Covid-19, the Liga leaders announced on Tuesday. "Real Madrid C. F. confirm our players Isco and David Alaba have tested positive for COVID-19," the club said in a statement. Comunicado Oficial.#RealMadrid — Real Madrid C.F. (@realmadrid) December 21, 2021 × The pair join six other players recovering from the virus -- Marco Asensio, Gareth Bale, Andriy Lunin, Rodrygo, Luka Modric and Marcelo -- and assistant coach Davide Ancelotti, son of head coach Carlo Ancelotti. Real play Athletic Bilbao on Wednesday. ALSO READ: Serie A: Juventus thrash Cagliari 2-0, Salernitana-Udinese game suspended due to COVID-19 cases Under Liga protocols, a club must have at least 13 players, at least five of them first-teamers and one a goalkeeper, available to play a match. Vaccinated players can return as soon as they test negative.

La Liga: Isco, David Alaba join six other players in Real Madrid Covid-19 list

Former India wicket keeper-batter Vijay Dahiya on Wednesday was appointed as the assistant coach of the new Lucknow franchise ahead of IPL 2022. 
 
Dahiya's appointment is the third major announcement after Andy Flower was appointed as the head coach and Gautam Gambhir roped in as the mentor by the Sanjiv Goenka-owned RPSG Group.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/gautam-gambhir-appointed-mentor-of-lucknow-ipl-franchise-fire-to-win-still-burns-bright-inside-me-437925">Gautam Gambhir appointed mentor of Lucknow IPL franchise: 'Fire to win still burns bright inside me'</a>

The 48-year-old Dahiya, who featured in two Tests and 19 ODIs for India, currently serves as the head coach of the Uttar Pradesh team in men`s domestic cricket. 
 
"I am delighted and grateful for the opportunity given to me to work with the Lucknow IPL franchise," said Dahiya in a statement posted by the RPSG group on their Twitter account. 
 
Dahiya had previously served as the assistant coach of two-time IPL winning team Kolkata Knight Riders. He has also worked as the talent scout for Delhi Capitals, apart from coaching the Delhi Ranji team.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kl-rahul-next-andy-flower-leaves-punjab-kings-to-become-head-coach-of-lucknow-ipl-franchise-437693">KL Rahul next? Andy Flower leaves Punjab Kings to become head coach of Lucknow IPL franchise</a> 
 
The Kolkata-based group, who previously ran the Rising Pune Supergiant team in 2016 and 2017 IPLs, had bought the rights of Lucknow franchise for a whopping INR 7090 crore in October.

Former India wicket keeper-batter Vijay Dahiya on Wednesday was appointed as the assistant coach of the new Lucknow franchise ahead of IPL 2022. Dahiya's appointment is the third major announcement after Andy Flower was appointed as the head coach and Gautam Gambhir roped in as the mentor by the Sanjiv Goenka-owned RPSG Group.

Former India wicket keeper-batter Vijay Dahiya on Wednesday was appointed as the assistant coach of the new Lucknow franchise ahead of IPL 2022. Dahiya's appointment is the third major announcement after Andy Flower was appointed as the head coach and Gautam Gambhir roped in as the mentor by the Sanjiv Goenka-owned RPSG Group. ALSO READ: Gautam Gambhir appointed mentor of Lucknow IPL franchise: 'Fire to win still burns bright inside me' The 48-year-old Dahiya, who featured in two Tests and 19 ODIs for India, currently serves as the head coach of the Uttar Pradesh team in men`s domestic cricket. "I am delighted and grateful for the opportunity given to me to work with the Lucknow IPL franchise," said Dahiya in a statement posted by the RPSG group on their Twitter account. Dahiya had previously served as the assistant coach of two-time IPL winning team Kolkata Knight Riders. He has also worked as the talent scout for Delhi Capitals, apart from coaching the Delhi Ranji team. ALSO READ: KL Rahul next? Andy Flower leaves Punjab Kings to become head coach of Lucknow IPL franchise The Kolkata-based group, who previously ran the Rising Pune Supergiant team in 2016 and 2017 IPLs, had bought the rights of Lucknow franchise for a whopping INR 7090 crore in October.

Former India wicketkeeper Vijay Dahiya named assistant coach of Lucknow IPL franchise

Pakistan spin-bowling all-rounder Shadab Khan named the toughest batter he has bowled at in international cricket during a recent Q/A session with fans on Twitter. While there are many batters who play spin really well at the highest level, Shadab went ahead and named two batters in the form of Rohit Sharma and David Warner.

The likes of Virat Kohli, Steve Smith, KL Rahul, Joe Root, etc. play spin really well. Hence, it isn't easy bowling against them, however, Shadab named Warner and Rohit as per his experience.

In a recent #AskShadab session with his avid fans, a Twitter user asked him 'who is the most difficult batsman to bowl' as the Pakistani all-rounder mentioned Rohit and the Aussie left-handed opener.

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>

&nbsp;

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Rohit Sharma and Warner <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AskShadab?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AskShadab</a> <a href="https://t.co/qZLJCdJyae">https://t.co/qZLJCdJyae</a>
— Shadab Khan (@76Shadabkhan) <a href="https://twitter.com/76Shadabkhan/status/1472965810796867592?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 20, 2021</a></blockquote>
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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>

Shadab-starrer Pakistan had locked horns with both India and Australia in the 2021 T20 World Cup, which concluded on November 14. While the 23-year-old Shadab didn't get a chance to bowl at Rohit, as Hitman fell for cheap in the Indo-Pak Super 12 face-off, he got a chance to come up against Warner in the riveting second semi-final between Pakistan and Australia at Dubai.&nbsp;

Shadab got rid of danger man Warner (49) as he returned with 4-0-26-4 before Matthew Wade-Marcus Stoinis' finishing skills and unbeaten 89-run stand, for the sixth-wicket, dented Pakistan's hopes of entering the final.

At present, Warner is involved in Ashes 2021 in Australia whereas India's limited-overs captain Rohit is recovering from an injury, which has kept him out of India's three Tests versus South Africa in the African nation.

Pakistan spin-bowling all-rounder Shadab Khan named the toughest batter he has bowled at in international cricket during a recent Q/A session with fans on Twitter.

Pakistan spin-bowling all-rounder Shadab Khan named the toughest batter he has bowled at in international cricket during a recent Q/A session with fans on Twitter. While there are many batters who play spin really well at the highest level, Shadab went ahead and named two batters in the form of Rohit Sharma and David Warner. The likes of Virat Kohli, Steve Smith, KL Rahul, Joe Root, etc. play spin really well. Hence, it isn't easy bowling against them, however, Shadab named Warner and Rohit as per his experience. In a recent #AskShadab session with his avid fans, a Twitter user asked him 'who is the most difficult batsman to bowl' as the Pakistani all-rounder mentioned Rohit and the Aussie left-handed opener. ALSO READ | With no Rohit Sharma, there will be pressure on Virat Kohli, reckons former SA spinner ahead of Centurion Test Rohit Sharma and Warner #AskShadab https://t.co/qZLJCdJyae — Shadab Khan (@76Shadabkhan) December 20, 2021 × ALSO READ | Ganguly had no business to speak on behalf of selection committee: Vengsarkar on BCCI-Kohli captaincy row Shadab-starrer Pakistan had locked horns with both India and Australia in the 2021 T20 World Cup, which concluded on November 14. While the 23-year-old Shadab didn't get a chance to bowl at Rohit, as Hitman fell for cheap in the Indo-Pak Super 12 face-off, he got a chance to come up against Warner in the riveting second semi-final between Pakistan and Australia at Dubai. Shadab got rid of danger man Warner (49) as he returned with 4-0-26-4 before Matthew Wade-Marcus Stoinis' finishing skills and unbeaten 89-run stand, for the sixth-wicket, dented Pakistan's hopes of entering the final. At present, Warner is involved in Ashes 2021 in Australia whereas India's limited-overs captain Rohit is recovering from an injury, which has kept him out of India's three Tests versus South Africa in the African nation.

Not Virat Kohli! Shadab Khan names star Indian opener and David Warner as 'toughest batter to bowl' at

India is gearing up for the three-match Test series opener versus South Africa, which gets underway on December 26 in Centurion. Ahead of the series, Virat Kohli-led Indian team have had several injury concerns with the likes of Rohit Sharma (newly-appointed vice-captain), Ravindra Jadeja, Shubman Gill, Axar Patel being ruled out.

Thus, Kohli &amp; Co. will have to be on their toes to get the better of Dean Elgar &amp; Co. and attain their first-ever Test series win on South African soil. For that to happen, India will have to start well and hope for Kohli to deliver with the bat. In 2021, the right-hander hasn't been at his best and has amassed only 483 runs in 10 innings, at 28.43, with four half-centuries.&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>

With no Rohit -- who is India's leading run-getter in whites in 2021 -- former South Africa spinner Omar Henry feels there will be pressure on Kohli both as batter and captain. "Rohit not being there is a big factor. He's been their most prolific of run-getters for a while, so make no mistake, there will be pressure on Kohli. He will be tested as a batsman and captain,” Henry, who is also an ex-chief selector," told Mid-Day in an interview.

Henry still feels India have it in them to beat SA in their own backyard despite the handful of wins (3) in the purest format, overall, in the rainbow nation. "I believe India have a window to break that losing sequence if they utilise their pace department well," he added.

On the other hand, the former cricketer also opined on the ODI captaincy row in Indian cricket, which erupted early this month after BCCI sacked Kohli as the ODI captain and appointed Rohit as the new limited-overs skipper. In this regard, he said, "(Rahul) Dravid the coach and the leader in Kohli should able to able to put all of that behind and concentrate on this important assignment. You are playing for your country. Nothing is bigger and personal issues have to come second."

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>

During India's last Test series in the African nation, Kohli-led team were competitive right throughout but lost the three Tests 2-1 versus the Faf du Plessis-led hosts. Will the scoreline be in India's favour this time around? Only time will tell...

India is gearing up for the three-match Test series opener versus South Africa, which gets underway on December 26 in Centurion. Ahead of the series, Virat Kohli-led Indian team have had several injury concerns with the likes of Rohit Sharma (newly-appointed vice-captain), Ravindra Jadeja, Shubman Gill, Axar Patel being ruled out.

India is gearing up for the three-match Test series opener versus South Africa, which gets underway on December 26 in Centurion. Ahead of the series, Virat Kohli-led Indian team have had several injury concerns with the likes of Rohit Sharma (newly-appointed vice-captain), Ravindra Jadeja, Shubman Gill, Axar Patel being ruled out. Thus, Kohli & Co. will have to be on their toes to get the better of Dean Elgar & Co. and attain their first-ever Test series win on South African soil. For that to happen, India will have to start well and hope for Kohli to deliver with the bat. In 2021, the right-hander hasn't been at his best and has amassed only 483 runs in 10 innings, at 28.43, with four half-centuries. ALSO READ | Ganguly had no business to speak on behalf of selection committee: Vengsarkar on BCCI-Kohli captaincy row With no Rohit -- who is India's leading run-getter in whites in 2021 -- former South Africa spinner Omar Henry feels there will be pressure on Kohli both as batter and captain. "Rohit not being there is a big factor. He's been their most prolific of run-getters for a while, so make no mistake, there will be pressure on Kohli. He will be tested as a batsman and captain,” Henry, who is also an ex-chief selector," told Mid-Day in an interview. Henry still feels India have it in them to beat SA in their own backyard despite the handful of wins (3) in the purest format, overall, in the rainbow nation. "I believe India have a window to break that losing sequence if they utilise their pace department well," he added. On the other hand, the former cricketer also opined on the ODI captaincy row in Indian cricket, which erupted early this month after BCCI sacked Kohli as the ODI captain and appointed Rohit as the new limited-overs skipper. In this regard, he said, "(Rahul) Dravid the coach and the leader in Kohli should able to able to put all of that behind and concentrate on this important assignment. You are playing for your country. Nothing is bigger and personal issues have to come second." ALSO READ | ICC Rankings: Labuschagne dethrones Root to become No. 1 Test batter, Babar reclaims top spot in T20Is During India's last Test series in the African nation, Kohli-led team were competitive right throughout but lost the three Tests 2-1 versus the Faf du Plessis-led hosts. Will the scoreline be in India's favour this time around? Only time will tell...

With no Rohit Sharma, there will be pressure on Virat Kohli, reckons former SA spinner ahead of Centurion Test

Marnus Labuschagne of Australia has overtaken England's Joe Root to become the No. 1 batter in the ICC Men's Test Player Rankings, a position Root had held since August of this year.

Marnus made his first Ashes century in the second Test, which was held in Adelaide, and was named 'Player of the Match' for his innings of 103 and 51, which contributed to Australia's 275-run victory against England.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/not-the-selectors-call-former-india-pacer-feels-bcci-was-behind-virat-kohli-being-sacked-as-odi-captain-438994">Not the selectors' call: Former India pacer feels BCCI was behind Virat Kohli being sacked as ODI captain</a>

Labuschagne is the ninth Australian to reach the 900-point milestone with the bat, the elite list includes Sir Don Bradman, Ricky Pointing, Mathew Hayden, Steve Smith, Michael Clarke, and others.

Mitchell Starc has also returned to the world's top 10 Test bowlers for the first time since January. While his compatriot Pat Cummins maintained his lead despite missing the second Test.

On the other hand, England's Ollie Robinson has entered the world's top 25 bowlers for the first time, with a career-high 597 points, while Joe Root has entered the world's top 10 all-rounders for the first time after his 111th Test match.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-rankings-marnus-labuschagne-rises-to-second-spot-in-tests-babar-azam-dethroned-in-t20is-437189">ICC Rankings: Marnus Labuschagne rises to second spot in Tests, Babar Azam dethroned in T20Is</a>

In the ICC Men's T20I Player Rankings, Pakistan's Babar Azam and England's Dawid Malan are tied at the first spot. Mohammad Rizwan currently has a career-high 798 points and is the second Pakistani in the top three.

The West Indies' bright spot in their 3-0 T20I series defeat to Pakistan was stand-in captain Nicholas Pooran. His 108 runs with a strike rate of 147.94 moved him up to 27th position, up from his previous career best of 30th.

(With inputs from agencies)

Marnus Labuschagne of Australia has overtaken England's Joe Root to become the No. 1 batter in the ICC Men's Test Player Rankings, a position Root had held since August of this year.

Marnus Labuschagne of Australia has overtaken England's Joe Root to become the No. 1 batter in the ICC Men's Test Player Rankings, a position Root had held since August of this year. Marnus made his first Ashes century in the second Test, which was held in Adelaide, and was named 'Player of the Match' for his innings of 103 and 51, which contributed to Australia's 275-run victory against England. ALSO READ | Not the selectors' call: Former India pacer feels BCCI was behind Virat Kohli being sacked as ODI captain Labuschagne is the ninth Australian to reach the 900-point milestone with the bat, the elite list includes Sir Don Bradman, Ricky Pointing, Mathew Hayden, Steve Smith, Michael Clarke, and others. Mitchell Starc has also returned to the world's top 10 Test bowlers for the first time since January. While his compatriot Pat Cummins maintained his lead despite missing the second Test. On the other hand, England's Ollie Robinson has entered the world's top 25 bowlers for the first time, with a career-high 597 points, while Joe Root has entered the world's top 10 all-rounders for the first time after his 111th Test match. ALSO READ: ICC Rankings: Marnus Labuschagne rises to second spot in Tests, Babar Azam dethroned in T20Is In the ICC Men's T20I Player Rankings, Pakistan's Babar Azam and England's Dawid Malan are tied at the first spot. Mohammad Rizwan currently has a career-high 798 points and is the second Pakistani in the top three. The West Indies' bright spot in their 3-0 T20I series defeat to Pakistan was stand-in captain Nicholas Pooran. His 108 runs with a strike rate of 147.94 moved him up to 27th position, up from his previous career best of 30th. (With inputs from agencies)

ICC Rankings: Labuschagne dethrones Root to become No. 1 Test batter, Babar reclaims top spot in T20Is

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