Ravindra Jadeja is out of the India-South Africa Test series after the 33-year-old got ruled out due to forearm injury, which he suffered during India's home series versus New Zealand recently. Earlier, Jadeja had also missed fourth and final Test versus Australia, in the 2020/21 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, and the entire home series versus England.

Thus, some reports started doing the rounds in the last few days which stated that the star Indian all-rounder is set to retire from Tests to prolong his limited-overs career. On Wednesday (December 15), Jadeja has responded to all the retirement rumours in style.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-wasnt-told-to-virat-kohli-contradicts-bcci-chief-sourav-ganguly-on-resigning-as-indias-t20i-captain-437148">'I wasn't told to...' - Virat Kohli contradicts BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly on resigning as India's T20I captain</a>

Jadeja shared a series of posts on Twitter to hit back at the rumours. One of his posts captioned, "Fake friends believe in rumours. Real friends believe in you" whereas the other had Jadeja in the Test jersey with caption, "Long way to go".

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<a href="https://t.co/DAXGbZRGI4">pic.twitter.com/DAXGbZRGI4</a>
— Ravindrasinh jadeja (@imjadeja) <a href="https://twitter.com/imjadeja/status/1471069582223761408?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 15, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Long way to go💪🏻💪🏻 <a href="https://t.co/tE9EdFI7oh">pic.twitter.com/tE9EdFI7oh</a>
— Ravindrasinh jadeja (@imjadeja) <a href="https://twitter.com/imjadeja/status/1471070327341871108?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 15, 2021</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/not-pujara-or-bumrah-indias-experienced-campaigner-frontrunner-to-be-vice-captain-for-sa-tests-report-437134">Not Pujara or Bumrah! India's experienced campaigner frontrunner to be vice-captain for SA Tests: Report</a>

On Wednesday (December 15), Indian Test captain Virat Kohli also opened up on various recent developments in Indian cricket via a press conference before India's departure for South Africa. During the presser, Kohli also opened up on not having Jadeja for the SA Tests. In this regard, he told, "Jadeja has obviously been a very important player for us. He contributes in all three departments of the game, which is invaluable, especially in overseas conditions. He will obviously be missed. But having said that, we do have quality in the side to be able to create the best combination possible on the field for us and still be in situations or positions to win Test matches."

India's tour of South Africa will commence on December 26 with the first Test to take place in Centurion. The last two Tests will&nbsp;be followed by three ODIs, starting from January 19.

Ravindra Jadeja is out of the India-South Africa Test series after the 33-year-old got ruled out due to forearm injury, which he suffered during India's home series versus New Zealand recently.

Ravindra Jadeja is out of the India-South Africa Test series after the 33-year-old got ruled out due to forearm injury, which he suffered during India's home series versus New Zealand recently. Earlier, Jadeja had also missed fourth and final Test versus Australia, in the 2020/21 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, and the entire home series versus England. Thus, some reports started doing the rounds in the last few days which stated that the star Indian all-rounder is set to retire from Tests to prolong his limited-overs career. On Wednesday (December 15), Jadeja has responded to all the retirement rumours in style. ALSO READ | 'I wasn't told to...' - Virat Kohli contradicts BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly on resigning as India's T20I captain Jadeja shared a series of posts on Twitter to hit back at the rumours. One of his posts captioned, "Fake friends believe in rumours. Real friends believe in you" whereas the other had Jadeja in the Test jersey with caption, "Long way to go". pic.twitter.com/DAXGbZRGI4 — Ravindrasinh jadeja (@imjadeja) December 15, 2021 × Long way to go💪🏻💪🏻 pic.twitter.com/tE9EdFI7oh — Ravindrasinh jadeja (@imjadeja) December 15, 2021 × ALSO READ | Not Pujara or Bumrah! India's experienced campaigner frontrunner to be vice-captain for SA Tests: Report On Wednesday (December 15), Indian Test captain Virat Kohli also opened up on various recent developments in Indian cricket via a press conference before India's departure for South Africa. During the presser, Kohli also opened up on not having Jadeja for the SA Tests. In this regard, he told, "Jadeja has obviously been a very important player for us. He contributes in all three departments of the game, which is invaluable, especially in overseas conditions. He will obviously be missed. But having said that, we do have quality in the side to be able to create the best combination possible on the field for us and still be in situations or positions to win Test matches." India's tour of South Africa will commence on December 26 with the first Test to take place in Centurion. The last two Tests will be followed by three ODIs, starting from January 19.

Ravindra Jadeja shuns Test retirement rumours in style courtesy a fitting post on Twitter

HS Prannoy of India advanced to the pre-quarterfinals of the BWF World Badminton Championships here on Wednesday with a straight-game victory over Malaysia's Daren Liew.

Prannoy defeated his Malaysian opponent 21-7 21-17 in a 42-minute men's singles second-round encounter.

In the pre-quarterfinals, he will face the winner of another second-round match between Luis Enrique Penalver of Spain and Rasmus Gemke of Denmark.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/olympic-champion-viktor-axelsen-silver-medallist-tai-tzu-ying-named-badminton-players-of-the-year-by-bwf-434111">Olympic champion Viktor Axelsen, silver medallist Tai Tzu Ying named badminton players of the year by BWF</a>

Prannoy entered in the men's singles pre-quarterfinals of the showcase competition alongside two other Indians, Kidambi Srikanth and Lakshya Sen.

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Winning his second match at the TotalEnergies BWF World Championships 2021 has given <a href="https://twitter.com/PRANNOYHSPRI?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PRANNOYHSPRI</a> 🇮🇳 further motivation in his battle against long Covid.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BWFWorldChampionships?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BWFWorldChampionships</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Huelva2021?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Huelva2021</a><a href="https://t.co/TdfmIcX8Yr">https://t.co/TdfmIcX8Yr</a>
— BWF (@bwfmedia) <a href="https://twitter.com/bwfmedia/status/1471082173293867012?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 15, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Liew proved to be no match against Prannoy in the first game. The Indian grabbed eight straight points from 8-5 to 16-5 before easily pocketing it.

The second game was more evenly contested, with the two players tied at 6-6. Prannoy never trailed again after that, cruising to a 16-11 victory. The Malaysian closed the lead, but Prannoy took the second game and the match 19-16.

Ashwini Ponnappa and N Sikki Reddy, the women's doubles duo, also advanced to the pre-quarterfinals following a hard-fought 21-11 9-21 21-13 triumph against the Chinese pair of Liu Xuan Xuan and Xia Yu Ting in a 51-minute second-round match.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/super-seven-the-heroes-of-indias-best-ever-olympic-campaign-in-tokyo-436350">Super Seven! The heroes of India's best-ever Olympic campaign in Tokyo</a>

However, in the men's doubles, the Indian duo of MR Arjun and Dhruv Kapila were defeated 11-21 16-21 by the 11th seeded Russian pair of Vladimir Ivanov and Ivan Sozonov in a 41-minute second round encounter.

Defending champion PV Sindhu advanced to the women's singles pre-quarterfinals with an easy 21-7 21-9 win against Martina Repiska of Slovakia on Tuesday. Sindhu received a first-round bye. In the pre-quarterfinals, she will meet Pornpawee Chochuwong of Thailand.

HS Prannoy of India advanced to the pre-quarterfinals of the BWF World Badminton Championships here on Wednesday with a straight-game victory over Malaysia's Daren Liew.

HS Prannoy of India advanced to the pre-quarterfinals of the BWF World Badminton Championships here on Wednesday with a straight-game victory over Malaysia's Daren Liew. Prannoy defeated his Malaysian opponent 21-7 21-17 in a 42-minute men's singles second-round encounter. In the pre-quarterfinals, he will face the winner of another second-round match between Luis Enrique Penalver of Spain and Rasmus Gemke of Denmark. ALSO READ: Olympic champion Viktor Axelsen, silver medallist Tai Tzu Ying named badminton players of the year by BWF Prannoy entered in the men's singles pre-quarterfinals of the showcase competition alongside two other Indians, Kidambi Srikanth and Lakshya Sen. Winning his second match at the TotalEnergies BWF World Championships 2021 has given @PRANNOYHSPRI 🇮🇳 further motivation in his battle against long Covid.#BWFWorldChampionships #Huelva2021https://t.co/TdfmIcX8Yr — BWF (@bwfmedia) December 15, 2021 × Liew proved to be no match against Prannoy in the first game. The Indian grabbed eight straight points from 8-5 to 16-5 before easily pocketing it. The second game was more evenly contested, with the two players tied at 6-6. Prannoy never trailed again after that, cruising to a 16-11 victory. The Malaysian closed the lead, but Prannoy took the second game and the match 19-16. Ashwini Ponnappa and N Sikki Reddy, the women's doubles duo, also advanced to the pre-quarterfinals following a hard-fought 21-11 9-21 21-13 triumph against the Chinese pair of Liu Xuan Xuan and Xia Yu Ting in a 51-minute second-round match. ALSO READ: Super Seven! The heroes of India's best-ever Olympic campaign in Tokyo However, in the men's doubles, the Indian duo of MR Arjun and Dhruv Kapila were defeated 11-21 16-21 by the 11th seeded Russian pair of Vladimir Ivanov and Ivan Sozonov in a 41-minute second round encounter. Defending champion PV Sindhu advanced to the women's singles pre-quarterfinals with an easy 21-7 21-9 win against Martina Repiska of Slovakia on Tuesday. Sindhu received a first-round bye. In the pre-quarterfinals, she will meet Pornpawee Chochuwong of Thailand.

BWF World Championships: HS Prannoy in pre-quarters after defeating Malysia's Daren Liew in straight sets

Barcelona and Argentina striker Sergio Aguero announced his retirement from football on Wednesday at the age of 33 after being diagnosed with a heart condition, bringing the curtain down on an 18-year career during which he scored more than 400 goals.

Aguero was taken to hospital on Oct. 30 after experiencing chest pain and breathing difficulties in Barcelona's 1-1 draw with Alaves. The club announced a few days later that he would be out for at least three months following cardiac analysis.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/explained-what-is-arrhythmia-a-heart-condition-that-might-force-sergio-aguero-to-retire-at-33-428823">Explained: What is arrhythmia? A heart condition that might force Sergio Aguero to retire at 33</a>

"This press conference is to communicate that I`ve decided to stop playing soccer. It`s a very hard moment but I`m at peace with the decision I made," a tearful Aguero told a gathering at the Camp Nou.

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"It's a very difficult moment ... it's for my health." 
 
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— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) <a href="https://twitter.com/FCBarcelona/status/1471079622448238593?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 15, 2021</a></blockquote>
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"It's a decision that I made to preserve my health. It's what the doctors said to me, that it would be better to stop playing. I made the decision around 10 days ago.

"I'm very proud of my career, it was a dream come true. I just wanted to be a professional player and never thought that I would play in Europe."

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We love you, Kun. 😭😭😭 <a href="https://t.co/88dtg9xKJd">pic.twitter.com/88dtg9xKJd</a>
— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) <a href="https://twitter.com/FCBarcelona/status/1471083852881870850?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 15, 2021</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/oj-simpson-a-free-man-after-finishing-parole-nevada-police-437107">OJ Simpson a free man after finishing parole: Nevada Police</a>

The Argentine joined Barca on a free transfer during the close season, but made only five appearances in all competitions due to a calf injury and his cardiac issues, scoring once in a 2-1 home defeat by Real Madrid.

Aguero moved to Spain after a decade with Premier League champions Manchester City, where he scored 260 goals in 390 appearances to become the club's record goalscorer.

Barcelona and Argentina striker Sergio Aguero announced his retirement from football on Wednesday at the age of 33 after being diagnosed with a heart condition, bringing the curtain down on an 18-year career during which he scored more than 400 goals.

Barcelona and Argentina striker Sergio Aguero announced his retirement from football on Wednesday at the age of 33 after being diagnosed with a heart condition, bringing the curtain down on an 18-year career during which he scored more than 400 goals. Aguero was taken to hospital on Oct. 30 after experiencing chest pain and breathing difficulties in Barcelona's 1-1 draw with Alaves. The club announced a few days later that he would be out for at least three months following cardiac analysis. ALSO READ: Explained: What is arrhythmia? A heart condition that might force Sergio Aguero to retire at 33 "This press conference is to communicate that I`ve decided to stop playing soccer. It`s a very hard moment but I`m at peace with the decision I made," a tearful Aguero told a gathering at the Camp Nou. "It's a very difficult moment ... it's for my health." — @aguerosergiokun pic.twitter.com/DYBjqqSQf2 — FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) December 15, 2021 × "It's a decision that I made to preserve my health. It's what the doctors said to me, that it would be better to stop playing. I made the decision around 10 days ago. "I'm very proud of my career, it was a dream come true. I just wanted to be a professional player and never thought that I would play in Europe." We love you, Kun. 😭😭😭 pic.twitter.com/88dtg9xKJd — FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) December 15, 2021 × ALSO READ: OJ Simpson a free man after finishing parole: Nevada Police The Argentine joined Barca on a free transfer during the close season, but made only five appearances in all competitions due to a calf injury and his cardiac issues, scoring once in a 2-1 home defeat by Real Madrid. Aguero moved to Spain after a decade with Premier League champions Manchester City, where he scored 260 goals in 390 appearances to become the club's record goalscorer.

Barcelona striker Sergio Aguero announces retirement from football due to heart problems - WATCH

On Wednesday (December 15), Virat Kohli interacted with the media in BCCI's customary press conference before India's departure to South Africa. Given that there have been some major developments in Indian cricket in the recent past, with not much communication from the board, Kohli's presser was keenly awaited and followed.

During the presser, Kohli opened up on losing ODI captaincy to Rohit Sharma, opined on Rohit as a limited-overs skipper, his availability for SA ODIs and also whether he had any word with the BCCI before stepping aside as the T20I captain, in mid-September.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/not-pujara-or-bumrah-indias-experienced-campaigner-frontrunner-to-be-vice-captain-for-sa-tests-report-437134">Not Pujara or Bumrah! India's experienced campaigner frontrunner to be vice-captain for SA Tests: Report</a>

On quitting as the T20I captain, Kohli raised eyebrows as he contradicted BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly's statement and said, "I had told BCCI that I want to quit T20I captaincy. I wasn't told to reconsider it. It was received well, without any hesitation; I was told it's a progressive step and it's in the right direction. I had told them that I want to continue ODI and Test captaincy unless the office bearers think otherwise. I had given that option to them."

Speaking to&nbsp;News18&nbsp;a few days ago, Ganguly had said, "I personally requested him (Kohli) not to give up the T20I captaincy. Obviously, he felt the workload. Which is fine, he has been a great cricketer, he has been very intense with his cricket. He has captained for a long period of time and these things happen. Because I have captained for a long period of time; therefore, I know. Also, they wanted only one white-ball captain. And that's why this decision. I don't know what's going to happen in future. But as I said, it's a good team and it has some fantastic players and I hope they will turn it around."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/theres-no-issue-virat-kohli-answers-the-big-question-confirms-no-rift-with-rohit-sharma-437014">There's no issue: Virat Kohli answers the big question, confirms no rift with Rohit Sharma</a>

In addition, Kohli commented on the ODI captaincy switch and said in the presser, "I was communicated one and a half hours before the selection meeting. I was told that I will not be the ODI captain. There was no communication with me before that. We chatted briefly about it during the selection meeting, but no communication about this was made before the selection meeting on ODI captaincy."

There remains to be see if the BCCI will share their version or not regarding how things unfolded with regards to Kohli quitting as T20I captain and being removed as the ODI skipper.&nbsp;

At present, India are gearing up to leave for South Africa where they play three Tests and ODIs each in the African nation. The tour will kick off with the first Test at Centurion on December 26.

On Wednesday (December 15), Virat Kohli interacted with the media in BCCI's customary press conference before India's departure to South Africa. Given that there have been some major developments in Indian cricket in the recent past, with not much communication from the board, Kohli's presser was keenly awaited and followed.

On Wednesday (December 15), Virat Kohli interacted with the media in BCCI's customary press conference before India's departure to South Africa. Given that there have been some major developments in Indian cricket in the recent past, with not much communication from the board, Kohli's presser was keenly awaited and followed. During the presser, Kohli opened up on losing ODI captaincy to Rohit Sharma, opined on Rohit as a limited-overs skipper, his availability for SA ODIs and also whether he had any word with the BCCI before stepping aside as the T20I captain, in mid-September. ALSO READ | Not Pujara or Bumrah! India's experienced campaigner frontrunner to be vice-captain for SA Tests: Report On quitting as the T20I captain, Kohli raised eyebrows as he contradicted BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly's statement and said, "I had told BCCI that I want to quit T20I captaincy. I wasn't told to reconsider it. It was received well, without any hesitation; I was told it's a progressive step and it's in the right direction. I had told them that I want to continue ODI and Test captaincy unless the office bearers think otherwise. I had given that option to them." Speaking to News18 a few days ago, Ganguly had said, "I personally requested him (Kohli) not to give up the T20I captaincy. Obviously, he felt the workload. Which is fine, he has been a great cricketer, he has been very intense with his cricket. He has captained for a long period of time and these things happen. Because I have captained for a long period of time; therefore, I know. Also, they wanted only one white-ball captain. And that's why this decision. I don't know what's going to happen in future. But as I said, it's a good team and it has some fantastic players and I hope they will turn it around." ALSO READ | There's no issue: Virat Kohli answers the big question, confirms no rift with Rohit Sharma In addition, Kohli commented on the ODI captaincy switch and said in the presser, "I was communicated one and a half hours before the selection meeting. I was told that I will not be the ODI captain. There was no communication with me before that. We chatted briefly about it during the selection meeting, but no communication about this was made before the selection meeting on ODI captaincy." There remains to be see if the BCCI will share their version or not regarding how things unfolded with regards to Kohli quitting as T20I captain and being removed as the ODI skipper. At present, India are gearing up to leave for South Africa where they play three Tests and ODIs each in the African nation. The tour will kick off with the first Test at Centurion on December 26.

'I wasn't told to...' - Virat Kohli contradicts BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly on resigning as India's T20I captain

Team India are set to leave for South Africa. The national side will play three Tests and equal number of ODIs in the African nation as the tour will kick off on December 26 with the first Test in Centurion. Ahead of the tour, India were dealt with a major blow with newly-appointed vice-captain Rohit Sharma being ruled out of the three Tests due to injury.&nbsp;

For the unversed, India have been hit with several injury concerns for the SA Tests. The likes of Shubman Gill, Ravindra Jadeja and Axar Patel have already been ruled out. Thus, Rohit's injury added to India's woes. The team management have roped in Priyank Panchal for Rohit, however, they need to announce the new vice-captain as well for the Proteas challenge.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-sharma-is-a-very-able-captain-virat-kohli-opens-up-on-team-indias-limited-overs-skipper-437109">Rohit Sharma is a very able captain: Virat Kohli opens up on Team India's limited-overs skipper</a>

While many believe Ajinkya Rahane might once again be given the vice-captain's post for the SA series, there are many other contenders as well. India's No. 3 Cheteshwar Pujara has served as the vice-captain on two occasions in the recent past. Many believe the post can also be given to a youngster like Rishabh Pant -- to groom him for the future -- or the likes of R Ashwin or Jasprit Bumrah. Nonetheless, KL Rahul seems to be the frontrunner.

"There’s no point in looking back. At the moment, the odds are tilted towards Rahul. Rahane is not a certainty to start in the playing XI (because of his poor form). “Even in the case of Ashwin, the team management has often not played him abroad. In that case, it’s tough to make either of them the vice-captain. The idea is to announce Kohli’s deputy in a day or two,” a source close to the selectors told Times of India.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/theres-no-issue-virat-kohli-answers-the-big-question-confirms-no-rift-with-rohit-sharma-437014">There's no issue: Virat Kohli answers the big question, confirms no rift with Rohit Sharma</a>

For the unversed, Rahul is Rohit's deputy in the shortest format and also a strong contender to become the new ODI vice-captain. Hence, he might be given the role for the South Africa Tests in Rohit's unavailability.&nbsp;

On Wednesday (December 15), the 33-year-old Virat Kohli addressed the media in BCCI's customary press conference before the team's departure for South Africa. The Test side will be eager to win a series on South African soil as India are yet to clinch a series in whites in the African nation.

Team India are set to leave for South Africa. The national side will play three Tests and equal number of ODIs in the African nation as the tour will kick off on December 26 with the first Test in Centurion.

Team India are set to leave for South Africa. The national side will play three Tests and equal number of ODIs in the African nation as the tour will kick off on December 26 with the first Test in Centurion. Ahead of the tour, India were dealt with a major blow with newly-appointed vice-captain Rohit Sharma being ruled out of the three Tests due to injury. For the unversed, India have been hit with several injury concerns for the SA Tests. The likes of Shubman Gill, Ravindra Jadeja and Axar Patel have already been ruled out. Thus, Rohit's injury added to India's woes. The team management have roped in Priyank Panchal for Rohit, however, they need to announce the new vice-captain as well for the Proteas challenge. ALSO READ | Rohit Sharma is a very able captain: Virat Kohli opens up on Team India's limited-overs skipper While many believe Ajinkya Rahane might once again be given the vice-captain's post for the SA series, there are many other contenders as well. India's No. 3 Cheteshwar Pujara has served as the vice-captain on two occasions in the recent past. Many believe the post can also be given to a youngster like Rishabh Pant -- to groom him for the future -- or the likes of R Ashwin or Jasprit Bumrah. Nonetheless, KL Rahul seems to be the frontrunner. "There’s no point in looking back. At the moment, the odds are tilted towards Rahul. Rahane is not a certainty to start in the playing XI (because of his poor form). “Even in the case of Ashwin, the team management has often not played him abroad. In that case, it’s tough to make either of them the vice-captain. The idea is to announce Kohli’s deputy in a day or two,” a source close to the selectors told Times of India. ALSO READ | There's no issue: Virat Kohli answers the big question, confirms no rift with Rohit Sharma For the unversed, Rahul is Rohit's deputy in the shortest format and also a strong contender to become the new ODI vice-captain. Hence, he might be given the role for the South Africa Tests in Rohit's unavailability. On Wednesday (December 15), the 33-year-old Virat Kohli addressed the media in BCCI's customary press conference before the team's departure for South Africa. The Test side will be eager to win a series on South African soil as India are yet to clinch a series in whites in the African nation.

Not Pujara or Bumrah! India's experienced campaigner frontrunner to be vice-captain for SA Tests: Report

OJ&nbsp;Simpson, the professional football player-turned-movie-star whose double murder trial gripped and divided the United States, is a free man after finishing his parole, police said Tuesday.

Simpson, who is now 74, was released from jail in Nevada in 2017, where he had served nine years for armed robbery in a case revolving around sports memorabilia. He had been due to finish parole in February.

"The Nevada Board of Parole Commissioners conducted an early discharge hearing for Mr.&nbsp;Simpson," Nevada Police spokesman Kim Yoko Smith said.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-jacob-ramsey-ollie-watkins-help-aston-villa-win-2-0-vs-bottom-placed-norwich-city-437020">Premier League: Jacob Ramsey, Ollie Watkins help Aston Villa win 2-0 vs bottom-placed Norwich City</a>

"A decision to grant early discharge from parole was ratified on December 6, 2021. The Board awarded credits in an amount equal to the time remaining on the sentence to reduce the sentence to time served."

Simpson's soap opera public life began as a stand-out running back in college football, winning the coveted Heisman Trophy for the best player in the nation, before a stellar career in the NFL.

It morphed into lucrative success in movies and commercials.

Then in 1994, millions of Americans watched wall-to-wall TV coverage of&nbsp;Simpson&nbsp;traveling in a white Bronco driven by a friend, leading a police convoy along the highways of southern California as he fled over the suspected double murder of his ex-wife and her male friend.

Simpson&nbsp;was famously acquitted in 1995 by a Los Angeles jury in a case decried by many as a media circus that became known as the "Trial of the Century," with a cast of larger-than-life lawyers and drama over whether or not a glove found at the scene would fit him.

The verdict was greeted with disbelief by many Americans, with opinion on the Black athlete's guilt divided sharply along racial lines.

The case was turned into the Emmy-winning FX television series, "The People vs&nbsp;OJ&nbsp;Simpson: American Crime Story," which aired in 2016.

Simpson&nbsp;was found liable for the deaths in a 1997 civil suit and ordered to pay $33.5 million damages to the family of Ron Goldman&nbsp;who was stabbed to death alongside&nbsp;Simpson's ex-wife Nicole Brown&nbsp;Simpson.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-manchester-city-thrashes-leeds-7-0-for-seventh-straight-win-watch-437015">Premier League: Manchester City thrashes Leeds 7-0 for seventh straight win- WATCH</a>

Simpson&nbsp;maintains his innocence and has always denied he was trying to flee during the famous&nbsp;chase, even though he ignored a police deadline to turn himself in.

He told an LAPD detective over the phone during the slow-speed pursuit to "let them all know I wasn't running," but rather visiting Nicole's grave.

A duffel bag containing&nbsp;Simpson's passport and cash&nbsp;as well as a gun&nbsp;found by police in the car led many to question this, but was never submitted as evidence by the prosecution.

He later authored a book entitled "If I Did It," which proffered a hypothetical description of the murders.

OJ Simpson, the professional football player-turned-movie-star whose double murder trial gripped and divided the United States, is a free man after finishing his parole, police said Tuesday.

OJ Simpson, the professional football player-turned-movie-star whose double murder trial gripped and divided the United States, is a free man after finishing his parole, police said Tuesday. Simpson, who is now 74, was released from jail in Nevada in 2017, where he had served nine years for armed robbery in a case revolving around sports memorabilia. He had been due to finish parole in February. "The Nevada Board of Parole Commissioners conducted an early discharge hearing for Mr. Simpson," Nevada Police spokesman Kim Yoko Smith said. ALSO READ: Premier League: Jacob Ramsey, Ollie Watkins help Aston Villa win 2-0 vs bottom-placed Norwich City "A decision to grant early discharge from parole was ratified on December 6, 2021. The Board awarded credits in an amount equal to the time remaining on the sentence to reduce the sentence to time served." Simpson's soap opera public life began as a stand-out running back in college football, winning the coveted Heisman Trophy for the best player in the nation, before a stellar career in the NFL. It morphed into lucrative success in movies and commercials. Then in 1994, millions of Americans watched wall-to-wall TV coverage of Simpson traveling in a white Bronco driven by a friend, leading a police convoy along the highways of southern California as he fled over the suspected double murder of his ex-wife and her male friend. Simpson was famously acquitted in 1995 by a Los Angeles jury in a case decried by many as a media circus that became known as the "Trial of the Century," with a cast of larger-than-life lawyers and drama over whether or not a glove found at the scene would fit him. The verdict was greeted with disbelief by many Americans, with opinion on the Black athlete's guilt divided sharply along racial lines. The case was turned into the Emmy-winning FX television series, "The People vs OJ Simpson: American Crime Story," which aired in 2016. Simpson was found liable for the deaths in a 1997 civil suit and ordered to pay $33.5 million damages to the family of Ron Goldman who was stabbed to death alongside Simpson's ex-wife Nicole Brown Simpson. ALSO READ: Premier League: Manchester City thrashes Leeds 7-0 for seventh straight win- WATCH Simpson maintains his innocence and has always denied he was trying to flee during the famous chase, even though he ignored a police deadline to turn himself in. He told an LAPD detective over the phone during the slow-speed pursuit to "let them all know I wasn't running," but rather visiting Nicole's grave. A duffel bag containing Simpson's passport and cash as well as a gun found by police in the car led many to question this, but was never submitted as evidence by the prosecution. He later authored a book entitled "If I Did It," which proffered a hypothetical description of the murders.

OJ Simpson a free man after finishing parole: Nevada Police

Virat Kohli, on Wednesday (December 15), addressed the media in a press conference ahead of Team India's departure for South Africa, where the national side is set to play three Tests and equal number of ODIs. After the various developments that have taken place in Indian cricket, Kohli's presser was keenly followed where the 33-year-old opened up on various aspects.

Kohli was removed as the ODI captain as the BCCI named Rohit Sharma as the new limited-overs skipper. The former will, however, continue to be in-charge of the Test line-up. Kohli, thus, opened up on playing under Rohit and lavished praise on Hitman as a leader.

He told the media, "My responsibility is to push the team in the right direction. Rohit is a very able captain and tactically very sound. Along with Rahul bhai, who is a great man manager, they will get my 100 percent support in ODIs and T20Is in whatever vision they set for the team in limited-overs cricket." Here's the video:&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/theres-no-issue-virat-kohli-answers-the-big-question-confirms-no-rift-with-rohit-sharma-437014">There's no issue: Virat Kohli answers the big question, confirms no rift with Rohit Sharma</a>

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💬 💬 <a href="https://twitter.com/ImRo45?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ImRo45</a> and Rahul Dravid have my absolute support: <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imVkohli</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SAvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SAvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/jXUwZ5W1Dz">pic.twitter.com/jXUwZ5W1Dz</a>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1471046347021111296?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 15, 2021</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-was-always-available-virat-kohli-shuns-rumours-of-missing-proteas-odis-before-indias-departure-for-sa-437009">I was always available: Virat Kohli shuns rumours of missing Proteas ODIs before India's departure for SA</a>

Kohli also reacted to the rumours of him asking for a leave to skip the ODIs in South Africa and said in this regard, "I am available for selection for ODI series against South Africa. No communication with the BCCI about being rested. This question should be asked to the people who are writing about this, not me. These are lies. I have not asked BCCI to rest me."

On his much-talked about equation with Rohit, Kohli once again confirmed that there is no truth to the alleged rift between the two cricketers. He said, "About me and Rohit, we have no problem with each other. I have been clarifying this for two to three years and honestly, getting tired of it.&nbsp;I can guarantee you that no action of mine or communication will ever be bad for Indian cricket. This is my commitment to Indian cricket."

India will play three Tests and ODIs each in the African nation, with the tour opener taking place on December 26. The first Test will kick off at Centurion followed by the last two matches whereas the three ODIs will commence on January 19 in Paarl.

Virat Kohli, on Wednesday (December 15), addressed the media in a press conference ahead of Team India's departure for South Africa, where the national side is set to play three Tests and equal number of ODIs.

Virat Kohli, on Wednesday (December 15), addressed the media in a press conference ahead of Team India's departure for South Africa, where the national side is set to play three Tests and equal number of ODIs. After the various developments that have taken place in Indian cricket, Kohli's presser was keenly followed where the 33-year-old opened up on various aspects. Kohli was removed as the ODI captain as the BCCI named Rohit Sharma as the new limited-overs skipper. The former will, however, continue to be in-charge of the Test line-up. Kohli, thus, opened up on playing under Rohit and lavished praise on Hitman as a leader. He told the media, "My responsibility is to push the team in the right direction. Rohit is a very able captain and tactically very sound. Along with Rahul bhai, who is a great man manager, they will get my 100 percent support in ODIs and T20Is in whatever vision they set for the team in limited-overs cricket." Here's the video: ALSO READ | There's no issue: Virat Kohli answers the big question, confirms no rift with Rohit Sharma 💬 💬 @ImRo45 and Rahul Dravid have my absolute support: @imVkohli #TeamIndia #SAvIND pic.twitter.com/jXUwZ5W1Dz — BCCI (@BCCI) December 15, 2021 × ALSO READ | I was always available: Virat Kohli shuns rumours of missing Proteas ODIs before India's departure for SA Kohli also reacted to the rumours of him asking for a leave to skip the ODIs in South Africa and said in this regard, "I am available for selection for ODI series against South Africa. No communication with the BCCI about being rested. This question should be asked to the people who are writing about this, not me. These are lies. I have not asked BCCI to rest me." On his much-talked about equation with Rohit, Kohli once again confirmed that there is no truth to the alleged rift between the two cricketers. He said, "About me and Rohit, we have no problem with each other. I have been clarifying this for two to three years and honestly, getting tired of it. I can guarantee you that no action of mine or communication will ever be bad for Indian cricket. This is my commitment to Indian cricket." India will play three Tests and ODIs each in the African nation, with the tour opener taking place on December 26. The first Test will kick off at Centurion followed by the last two matches whereas the three ODIs will commence on January 19 in Paarl.

Rohit Sharma is a very able captain: Virat Kohli opens up on Team India's limited-overs skipper

India will face Pakistan in their opening match of ICC Women's Cricket World Cup 2022 here in Tauranga on March 6, 2022.

The showpiece event will get underway on March 4, 2022, at the Bay Oval in Tauranga, with the hosts New Zealand taking on West Indies.

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The line up is complete! 
 
See the full <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CWC22?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CWC22</a> schedule, starting with <a href="https://twitter.com/WHITE_FERNS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@WHITE_FERNS</a> v <a href="https://twitter.com/windiescricket?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@windiescricket</a> in the opening match. 
 
Get your tickets now 👉 <a href="https://t.co/TSB12d7j9j">https://t.co/TSB12d7j9j</a> <a href="https://t.co/unGAoFmcUF">pic.twitter.com/unGAoFmcUF</a>
— Cricket World Cup (@cricketworldcup) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketworldcup/status/1470800887006502915?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 14, 2021</a></blockquote>
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England and Australia will then lock horns the following day at Seddon Park in Hamilton.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/smriti-mandhana-ideal-candidate-to-succeed-mithali-raj-after-her-retirement-says-former-indian-cricketer-435531">Smriti Mandhana ideal candidate to succeed Mithali Raj after her retirement, says former Indian cricketer</a>

A total of 31 matches will be staged across 31 days, with the eight teams clashing to clinch the World Cup title.

According to ICC, Australia, England, South Africa and India qualified for the event on the basis of their position in ICC Women`s Championship 2017-20 while New Zealand automatically qualified as they were hosts.

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New Zealand host the West Indies in the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CWC22?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CWC22</a> opener, and rivals face off in the first week of the tournament 👀 
 
Key dates for your cricket diary 👇<a href="https://t.co/1l53PeHbGO">https://t.co/1l53PeHbGO</a>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1470929152513560577?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 15, 2021</a></blockquote>
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The megaevent will be played in the league format, where all eight nations will face each other once, at the end of which the top four teams will qualify for the semi-finals.

The first semi-final of the World Cup will be played at The Basin Reserve in Wellington on March 30 while The Hagley Oval will staged the second semi-final on March 31.

IN PICS:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-neeraj-chopra-to-mithali-raj-list-of-athletes-who-won-major-dhyan-chand-khel-ratna-award-in-2021-429094#neeraj-chopra-429065">From Neeraj Chopra to Mithali Raj: List of athletes who won Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award in 2021</a>

The finals of the tournament will be played on April 3. Both the semi-finals and the finals will have a reserve day in place as per ICC.&nbsp;

India will face Pakistan in their opening match of ICC Women's Cricket World Cup 2022 here in Tauranga on March 6, 2022. The showpiece event will get underway on March 4, 2022, at the Bay Oval in Tauranga, with the hosts New Zealand taking on West Indies.

India will face Pakistan in their opening match of ICC Women's Cricket World Cup 2022 here in Tauranga on March 6, 2022. The showpiece event will get underway on March 4, 2022, at the Bay Oval in Tauranga, with the hosts New Zealand taking on West Indies. The line up is complete! See the full #CWC22 schedule, starting with @WHITE_FERNS v @windiescricket in the opening match. Get your tickets now 👉 https://t.co/TSB12d7j9j pic.twitter.com/unGAoFmcUF — Cricket World Cup (@cricketworldcup) December 14, 2021 × England and Australia will then lock horns the following day at Seddon Park in Hamilton. ALSO READ: Smriti Mandhana ideal candidate to succeed Mithali Raj after her retirement, says former Indian cricketer A total of 31 matches will be staged across 31 days, with the eight teams clashing to clinch the World Cup title. According to ICC, Australia, England, South Africa and India qualified for the event on the basis of their position in ICC Women`s Championship 2017-20 while New Zealand automatically qualified as they were hosts. New Zealand host the West Indies in the #CWC22 opener, and rivals face off in the first week of the tournament 👀 Key dates for your cricket diary 👇https://t.co/1l53PeHbGO — ICC (@ICC) December 15, 2021 × The megaevent will be played in the league format, where all eight nations will face each other once, at the end of which the top four teams will qualify for the semi-finals. The first semi-final of the World Cup will be played at The Basin Reserve in Wellington on March 30 while The Hagley Oval will staged the second semi-final on March 31. IN PICS: From Neeraj Chopra to Mithali Raj: List of athletes who won Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award in 2021 The finals of the tournament will be played on April 3. Both the semi-finals and the finals will have a reserve day in place as per ICC.

ICC announces schedule for 2022 Women's ODI World Cup, India to open campaign vs Pakistan

On December 8, the BCCI dropped a bomb by removing Virat Kohli as the ODI captain. Many believe it was always on the cards after the 33-year-old had stepped down as the T20I captain, post the World Cup in the UAE, and the Indian cricket board made the official announcement as Kohli got replaced by Rohit Sharma. For the unversed, Rohit had already succeeded Kohli as the T20I captain and, thus, will serve as the limited-overs skipper.

Ahead of Team India's departure for South Africa, where they are scheduled to play three Tests and equal number of ODIs, Kohli interacted with the media in the customary press conference in Mumbai, on Wednesday (December 15), and opened up on losing ODI captaincy to Rohit.

He told, "I was communicated one and a half hours before the selection meeting (on Rohit being given the ODI captaincy). I was told that I will not be the ODI captain. There was no communication with me before that. We chatted briefly about it during the selection meet, but no communication about this was made before the selection meeting."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-was-always-available-virat-kohli-shuns-rumours-of-missing-proteas-odis-before-indias-departure-for-sa-437009">I was always available: Virat Kohli shuns rumours of missing Proteas ODIs before India's departure for SA</a>

Earlier, BCCI President Sourav Ganguly had also broken his silence on the ODI captaincy change and told ANI, "“It's a call that the BCCI and the selectors took together,” Ganguly told ANI. "Actually, the BCCI had requested Virat to not step down as the T20I skipper but obviously, he did not agree. And the selectors then did not feel it right to have two different captains for two white-ball formats. So it was decided that Virat will continue as Test captain and Rohit will take over as the white-ball captain. I as President personally spoke to Virat Kohli and the chairman of selectors has also spoken to him," he stated.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nobody-is-bigger-than-the-game-anurag-thakur-reacts-to-alleged-rift-between-virat-kohli-and-rohit-sharma-436999">Nobody is bigger than the game: Anurag Thakur reacts to alleged rift between Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma</a>

Kohli also made it clear that he had never asked for skipping the SA ODIs, to start from January 19 in Paarl. He has maintained that he remains available for the 50-over series in the African nation and the team is eyeing success across formats in their tough tour of the African nation.

On December 8, the BCCI dropped a bomb by removing Virat Kohli as the ODI captain. Many believe it was always on the cards after the 33-year-old had stepped down as the T20I captain, post the World Cup in the UAE, and the Indian cricket board made the official announcement as Kohli got replaced by Rohit Sharma.

On December 8, the BCCI dropped a bomb by removing Virat Kohli as the ODI captain. Many believe it was always on the cards after the 33-year-old had stepped down as the T20I captain, post the World Cup in the UAE, and the Indian cricket board made the official announcement as Kohli got replaced by Rohit Sharma. For the unversed, Rohit had already succeeded Kohli as the T20I captain and, thus, will serve as the limited-overs skipper. Ahead of Team India's departure for South Africa, where they are scheduled to play three Tests and equal number of ODIs, Kohli interacted with the media in the customary press conference in Mumbai, on Wednesday (December 15), and opened up on losing ODI captaincy to Rohit. He told, "I was communicated one and a half hours before the selection meeting (on Rohit being given the ODI captaincy). I was told that I will not be the ODI captain. There was no communication with me before that. We chatted briefly about it during the selection meet, but no communication about this was made before the selection meeting." ALSO READ | I was always available: Virat Kohli shuns rumours of missing Proteas ODIs before India's departure for SA Earlier, BCCI President Sourav Ganguly had also broken his silence on the ODI captaincy change and told ANI, "“It's a call that the BCCI and the selectors took together,” Ganguly told ANI. "Actually, the BCCI had requested Virat to not step down as the T20I skipper but obviously, he did not agree. And the selectors then did not feel it right to have two different captains for two white-ball formats. So it was decided that Virat will continue as Test captain and Rohit will take over as the white-ball captain. I as President personally spoke to Virat Kohli and the chairman of selectors has also spoken to him," he stated. ALSO READ | Nobody is bigger than the game: Anurag Thakur reacts to alleged rift between Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma Kohli also made it clear that he had never asked for skipping the SA ODIs, to start from January 19 in Paarl. He has maintained that he remains available for the 50-over series in the African nation and the team is eyeing success across formats in their tough tour of the African nation.

'There was no communication...' - Virat Kohli opens up on losing ODI captaincy to Rohit Sharma

On Wednesday (December 15), Virat Kohli answered several questions of the media in BCCI's customary press-conference before Team India's departure to South Africa, where the national side is set to play three Tests and equal number of ODIs. Ahead of the SA series, BCCI had removed Kohli as the ODI captain and made Rohit Sharma fully in-charge of the limited-overs setup on December 8.

Thus, this led to several news portals and social media users speculating that things might not be ideal between Kohli and Rohit. Moreover, Rohit got ruled out of the SA Tests, due to injury, whereas Kohli was reportedly keen to miss the ODIs in the African nation. However, Kohli has shunned reports of him asking for leave to miss the ODIs and also opened up on his equation with Hitman.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-was-always-available-virat-kohli-shuns-rumours-of-missing-proteas-odis-before-indias-departure-for-sa-437009">I was always available: Virat Kohli shuns rumours of missing Proteas ODIs before India's departure for SA</a>

In the presser, Kohli opined on his relationship with Rohit and said, "I have not won an ICC title. I can understand the logic behind the board's decision.&nbsp;The communication process is something&nbsp;I have already told you about. About me and Rohit, we have no problem with each other. I have been clarifying this for two to three years and honestly, getting tired of it.&nbsp;I can guarantee you that no action of mine or communication will ever be bad for Indian cricket. This is my commitment to Indian cricket."

He added, "Rohit Sharma is a very able captain, very tactically sound. We have seen for India and IPL as well. Along with Rahul bhai, both of them will have my absolute support."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/there-was-no-communication-virat-kohli-opens-up-on-losing-odi-captaincy-to-rohit-sharma-437011">'There was no communication...' - Virat Kohli opens up on losing ODI captaincy to Rohit Sharma</a>

Moreover, the Indian Test captain Kohli is also keen to lead India to a Test series win on South African soil, something no Indian team has ever achieved so far. "Very motivated to win a series in South Africa. We have not done that before. We will do our absolute best to to make it happen."

"South Africa was really the start of us believing that we can win overseas. We carried it forward in Engalnd and eventually won in Australia. South Africa is a different challenge. We have left ourselves to do a bit too much at times, with sessions going against us. We are very well placed in terms of experience and belief. we can do something special and get the results we want as a team," he added.

For the unversed, India had lost the three Tests to hosts South Africa, by 2-1, during their last trip to the African nation in early 2018. However, they bounced back in style to win the limited-overs leg.

On Wednesday (December 15), Virat Kohli answered several questions of the media in BCCI's customary press-conference before Team India's departure to South Africa, where the national side is set to play three Tests and equal number of ODIs.

On Wednesday (December 15), Virat Kohli answered several questions of the media in BCCI's customary press-conference before Team India's departure to South Africa, where the national side is set to play three Tests and equal number of ODIs. Ahead of the SA series, BCCI had removed Kohli as the ODI captain and made Rohit Sharma fully in-charge of the limited-overs setup on December 8. Thus, this led to several news portals and social media users speculating that things might not be ideal between Kohli and Rohit. Moreover, Rohit got ruled out of the SA Tests, due to injury, whereas Kohli was reportedly keen to miss the ODIs in the African nation. However, Kohli has shunned reports of him asking for leave to miss the ODIs and also opened up on his equation with Hitman. ALSO READ | I was always available: Virat Kohli shuns rumours of missing Proteas ODIs before India's departure for SA In the presser, Kohli opined on his relationship with Rohit and said, "I have not won an ICC title. I can understand the logic behind the board's decision. The communication process is something I have already told you about. About me and Rohit, we have no problem with each other. I have been clarifying this for two to three years and honestly, getting tired of it. I can guarantee you that no action of mine or communication will ever be bad for Indian cricket. This is my commitment to Indian cricket." He added, "Rohit Sharma is a very able captain, very tactically sound. We have seen for India and IPL as well. Along with Rahul bhai, both of them will have my absolute support." ALSO READ | 'There was no communication...' - Virat Kohli opens up on losing ODI captaincy to Rohit Sharma Moreover, the Indian Test captain Kohli is also keen to lead India to a Test series win on South African soil, something no Indian team has ever achieved so far. "Very motivated to win a series in South Africa. We have not done that before. We will do our absolute best to to make it happen." "South Africa was really the start of us believing that we can win overseas. We carried it forward in Engalnd and eventually won in Australia. South Africa is a different challenge. We have left ourselves to do a bit too much at times, with sessions going against us. We are very well placed in terms of experience and belief. we can do something special and get the results we want as a team," he added. For the unversed, India had lost the three Tests to hosts South Africa, by 2-1, during their last trip to the African nation in early 2018. However, they bounced back in style to win the limited-overs leg.

There's no issue: Virat Kohli answers the big question, confirms no rift with Rohit Sharma

Virat Kohli has addressed the media in the press conference, on Wednesday (December 15),&nbsp;before Team India's departure for South Africa, where they will play three Tests and equal number of ODIs starting from December 26. In the past few days, a number of important developments have taken place in Indian cricket, with Rohit Sharma taking over as the limited-overs captain whereas Kohli remains the Test captain.

Following the ODI captaincy switch, there were reports that Kohli isn't willing to play the South Africa ODIs, starting from January 19. However, the 33-year-old Kohli broke his silence and put all rumours to rest in the presser by saying, "I am available for selection for ODI series against South Africa. No communication with the BCCI about being rested. This question should be asked to the people who are writing about this, not me. These are lies. I have not asked BCCI to rest me."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nobody-is-bigger-than-the-game-anurag-thakur-reacts-to-alleged-rift-between-virat-kohli-and-rohit-sharma-436999">Nobody is bigger than the game: Anurag Thakur reacts to alleged rift between Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma</a>

Kohli also opened up on the ODI captaincy switch and told the media, "Before the selection call ended, I was told I won't be the captain and I said okay. After the meeting we had a brief chat and that's it. I was not communicated at all (before the meeting)."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-shouldnt-jump-to-conclusions-gavaskar-reacts-as-many-sniff-rift-between-virat-kohli-and-rohit-sharma-436932">We shouldn't jump to conclusions: Gavaskar reacts as many sniff rift between Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma</a>

India are set to leave for South Africa on December 16 (Thursday) where they will play the Tests and ODIs whereas return for the T20Is later in 2022. The tour opener will commence in the form of the first Test at Centurion on December 26, i.e. the Boxing Day Test.&nbsp;

The remaining two Tests will be followed by the ODI series, the squad of which is yet to be announced. India's Test squad for the SA series is as follows:

Squad: Virat Kohli (captain), Priyank Panchal, KL Rahul, Mayank Agarwal, Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane, Shreyas Iyer, Hanuma Vihari, Rishabh Pant, Wriddhiman Saha, Ravichandran Ashwin, Jayant Yadav, Ishant Sharma, Mohammed Shami, Umesh Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Shardul Thakur, Mohammed Siraj.

Standby Players: Navdeep Saini, Saurabh Kumar, Deepak Chahar, Arzan Nagwaswalla

Rohit is ruled out of the three Tests due to injury but is expected to be available for the ODIs.

Virat Kohli has addressed the media in the press conference, on Wednesday (December 15), before Team India's departure for South Africa, where they will play three Tests and equal number of ODIs starting from December 26.

Virat Kohli has addressed the media in the press conference, on Wednesday (December 15), before Team India's departure for South Africa, where they will play three Tests and equal number of ODIs starting from December 26. In the past few days, a number of important developments have taken place in Indian cricket, with Rohit Sharma taking over as the limited-overs captain whereas Kohli remains the Test captain. Following the ODI captaincy switch, there were reports that Kohli isn't willing to play the South Africa ODIs, starting from January 19. However, the 33-year-old Kohli broke his silence and put all rumours to rest in the presser by saying, "I am available for selection for ODI series against South Africa. No communication with the BCCI about being rested. This question should be asked to the people who are writing about this, not me. These are lies. I have not asked BCCI to rest me." ALSO READ | Nobody is bigger than the game: Anurag Thakur reacts to alleged rift between Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma Kohli also opened up on the ODI captaincy switch and told the media, "Before the selection call ended, I was told I won't be the captain and I said okay. After the meeting we had a brief chat and that's it. I was not communicated at all (before the meeting)." ALSO READ | We shouldn't jump to conclusions: Gavaskar reacts as many sniff rift between Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma India are set to leave for South Africa on December 16 (Thursday) where they will play the Tests and ODIs whereas return for the T20Is later in 2022. The tour opener will commence in the form of the first Test at Centurion on December 26, i.e. the Boxing Day Test. The remaining two Tests will be followed by the ODI series, the squad of which is yet to be announced. India's Test squad for the SA series is as follows: Squad: Virat Kohli (captain), Priyank Panchal, KL Rahul, Mayank Agarwal, Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane, Shreyas Iyer, Hanuma Vihari, Rishabh Pant, Wriddhiman Saha, Ravichandran Ashwin, Jayant Yadav, Ishant Sharma, Mohammed Shami, Umesh Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Shardul Thakur, Mohammed Siraj. Standby Players: Navdeep Saini, Saurabh Kumar, Deepak Chahar, Arzan Nagwaswalla Rohit is ruled out of the three Tests due to injury but is expected to be available for the ODIs.

I was always available: Virat Kohli shuns rumours of missing Proteas ODIs before India's departure for SA

Thousands of Olympic athletes on boats cruising along the River Seine toward the sun setting like a giant gold medal behind the Eiffel Tower.

The 2024 Paris Games opening ceremony vision was unveiled on Monday as an event organizers hope will be unique in Olympic history and free for hundreds of thousands to watch on the riverside.

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26-07-2024 
 
Paris, la Seine, ses monuments, ses quais...pour un spectacle unique. 
 
Célébrons le sport dans la ville ! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Paris2024?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Paris2024</a> vous invite à la première cérémonie d'ouverture des Jeux Olympiques au cœur de la ville ! <a href="https://t.co/6drQJijubO">pic.twitter.com/6drQJijubO</a>
— Paris 2024 (@Paris2024) <a href="https://twitter.com/Paris2024/status/1470683767366987780?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 14, 2021</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wont-go-to-beijing-winter-olympics-2022-but-no-protest-says-austrian-leader-436875">Won't go to Beijing Winter Olympics 2022, but no protest, says Austrian leader</a>

Rethinking the ceremony that announces an Olympics to the world by taking it outside the traditional stadium setting was long hinted at by Paris officials.

Details revealed for the July 26th 2024 show help explain a promise to use the City of Light, its culture and people as essential actors in the Olympics.

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>

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Opening Ceremony - COMING SOON <a href="https://t.co/CAdHyiUUNu">pic.twitter.com/CAdHyiUUNu</a>
— Paris 2024 (@Paris2024) <a href="https://twitter.com/Paris2024/status/1470440518165352448?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 13, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Opening Ceremony - COMING SOON <a href="https://t.co/A4O9rTJfZb">pic.twitter.com/A4O9rTJfZb</a>
— Paris 2024 (@Paris2024) <a href="https://twitter.com/Paris2024/status/1470440523093712901?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 13, 2021</a></blockquote>
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For starters, the water-borne opening ceremony will innovate by having the parade of athletes from more than 200 teams begin the evening instead of end it.

It will also be free to view for most of the expected 600,000 spectators lining the six-kilometer (four-mile) route.&nbsp;

Thousands of Olympic athletes on boats cruising along the River Seine toward the sun setting like a giant gold medal behind the Eiffel Tower. The 2024 Paris Games opening ceremony vision was unveiled on Monday as an event organizers hope will be unique in Olympic history and free for hundreds of thousands to watch on the riverside.

Thousands of Olympic athletes on boats cruising along the River Seine toward the sun setting like a giant gold medal behind the Eiffel Tower. The 2024 Paris Games opening ceremony vision was unveiled on Monday as an event organizers hope will be unique in Olympic history and free for hundreds of thousands to watch on the riverside. 26-07-2024 Paris, la Seine, ses monuments, ses quais...pour un spectacle unique. Célébrons le sport dans la ville ! #Paris2024 vous invite à la première cérémonie d'ouverture des Jeux Olympiques au cœur de la ville ! pic.twitter.com/6drQJijubO — Paris 2024 (@Paris2024) December 14, 2021 × ALSO READ: Won't go to Beijing Winter Olympics 2022, but no protest, says Austrian leader Rethinking the ceremony that announces an Olympics to the world by taking it outside the traditional stadium setting was long hinted at by Paris officials. Details revealed for the July 26th 2024 show help explain a promise to use the City of Light, its culture and people as essential actors in the Olympics. ALSO READ: Winter Olympics: China warns Australia, UK, US for diplomatic boycott, says 'will pay price for wrong acts' 26/07/2024 - #Paris2024 Opening Ceremony - COMING SOON pic.twitter.com/CAdHyiUUNu — Paris 2024 (@Paris2024) December 13, 2021 × 26/07/2024 - #Paris2024 Opening Ceremony - COMING SOON pic.twitter.com/A4O9rTJfZb — Paris 2024 (@Paris2024) December 13, 2021 × For starters, the water-borne opening ceremony will innovate by having the parade of athletes from more than 200 teams begin the evening instead of end it. It will also be free to view for most of the expected 600,000 spectators lining the six-kilometer (four-mile) route.

Paris Olympics 2024 opening ceremony to be held on the River Seine - WATCH

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