Hardik Pandya hasn't been firing on all cylinders ever since cricket resumed in the post-pandemic era. The 27-year-old lost his place in the Test line-up for not being able to bowl -- due to back issues -- and has managed to contribute with only a handful of overs for the Men in Blue and Mumbai Indians (MI) with the white ball in hand.

Hence, his place in the limited-overs side is also very much up for grabs. On the other hand, Kolkata Knight Riders' (KKR) wonder boy Venkatesh Iyer's stocks have seen a sharp rise following his breakthrough season in IPL 2021. While he was included in India's T20I line-up for the NZ series at home, the swashbuckling left-hander is delivering at the domestic level as well.

Iyer, who is representing Madhya Pradesh in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, has been in stellar form and has amassed 348 runs in four outings, including scores of 112, 71 and 151. Thus, he is the second-highest run-getter -- only behind Maharastra's Ruturaj Gaikwad -- and is being considered as a replacement for Hardik in the limited-overs setup for the South Africa tour.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wont-reveal-babar-azam-responds-to-reporters-question-about-chat-with-virat-kohli-during-t20-world-cup-436542">'Won't reveal': Babar Azam responds to reporter's question about chat with Virat Kohli during T20 World Cup</a>

In this regard, former Indian keeper-batsman and selector Saba Karim has named the KKR opener as Hardik's like-for-like replacement in India's ODI and T20I setup. He has also called for Ruturaj's inclusion in ODIs and Tests. "I believe that Venkatesh Iyer and Ruturaj Gaikwad have almost entered the first-team squad, and I'm talking about white-ball cricket. If we have to start the preparation for the 2023 World Cup, these two players should be part of the squad as soon as possible.

"They should be given as much exposure as possible. Both these players provide a different spectrum for the team. Gaikwad can be the backup opener with Rohit Sharma and KL Rahul going strong. On the other hand, Iyer has performed really well while batting at No. 5 or No. 6 in the Vijay Hazare trophy. If we are looking at the replacement for Hardik Pandya, we have already found the player," Karim said on the Khelneeti podcast.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pakistan-vs-west-indies-t20is-full-schedule-squads-telecast-and-live-streaming-details-436530">Pakistan vs West Indies, T20Is: Full schedule, squads, telecast and live streaming details!</a>

Karim also opined that Indian head coach Rahul Dravid needs to start creating a core set of players in the white-ball formats, with plenty of ICC events lined-up every year.

"Rahul Dravid has seen these players for quite a while now. The way Dravid used to prepare as a player, he must be prepared in the same way as a coach. He must have thought about a core of 23-25 players in the white-ball cricket circuit. He must have started the preparation for the World Cups Venkatesh Iyer should definitely be part of the South Africa tour. He must then be tracked be in the Ranji Trophy as well because I believe he is an all-format player. It is also the time that Gaikwad is in contention for the Test squad," Karim further added.

At present, India is preparing for their departure to South Africa, where they are scheduled to play three Tests and equal number of ODIs. The tour opener will commence in Centurion on December 26 with the Test series followed by the ODIs.

Rohit Sharma will lead the limited-overs side whereas Virat Kohli will continue as the Test captain.

Hardik Pandya hasn't been firing on all cylinders ever since cricket resumed in the post-pandemic era. The 27-year-old lost his place in the Test line-up for not being able to bowl -- due to back issues -- and has managed to contribute with only a handful of overs for the Men in Blue and Mumbai Indians (MI) with the white ball in hand.

Hardik Pandya hasn't been firing on all cylinders ever since cricket resumed in the post-pandemic era. The 27-year-old lost his place in the Test line-up for not being able to bowl -- due to back issues -- and has managed to contribute with only a handful of overs for the Men in Blue and Mumbai Indians (MI) with the white ball in hand. Hence, his place in the limited-overs side is also very much up for grabs. On the other hand, Kolkata Knight Riders' (KKR) wonder boy Venkatesh Iyer's stocks have seen a sharp rise following his breakthrough season in IPL 2021. While he was included in India's T20I line-up for the NZ series at home, the swashbuckling left-hander is delivering at the domestic level as well. Iyer, who is representing Madhya Pradesh in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, has been in stellar form and has amassed 348 runs in four outings, including scores of 112, 71 and 151. Thus, he is the second-highest run-getter -- only behind Maharastra's Ruturaj Gaikwad -- and is being considered as a replacement for Hardik in the limited-overs setup for the South Africa tour. ALSO READ | 'Won't reveal': Babar Azam responds to reporter's question about chat with Virat Kohli during T20 World Cup In this regard, former Indian keeper-batsman and selector Saba Karim has named the KKR opener as Hardik's like-for-like replacement in India's ODI and T20I setup. He has also called for Ruturaj's inclusion in ODIs and Tests. "I believe that Venkatesh Iyer and Ruturaj Gaikwad have almost entered the first-team squad, and I'm talking about white-ball cricket. If we have to start the preparation for the 2023 World Cup, these two players should be part of the squad as soon as possible. "They should be given as much exposure as possible. Both these players provide a different spectrum for the team. Gaikwad can be the backup opener with Rohit Sharma and KL Rahul going strong. On the other hand, Iyer has performed really well while batting at No. 5 or No. 6 in the Vijay Hazare trophy. If we are looking at the replacement for Hardik Pandya, we have already found the player," Karim said on the Khelneeti podcast. ALSO READ | Pakistan vs West Indies, T20Is: Full schedule, squads, telecast and live streaming details! Karim also opined that Indian head coach Rahul Dravid needs to start creating a core set of players in the white-ball formats, with plenty of ICC events lined-up every year. "Rahul Dravid has seen these players for quite a while now. The way Dravid used to prepare as a player, he must be prepared in the same way as a coach. He must have thought about a core of 23-25 players in the white-ball cricket circuit. He must have started the preparation for the World Cups Venkatesh Iyer should definitely be part of the South Africa tour. He must then be tracked be in the Ranji Trophy as well because I believe he is an all-format player. It is also the time that Gaikwad is in contention for the Test squad," Karim further added. At present, India is preparing for their departure to South Africa, where they are scheduled to play three Tests and equal number of ODIs. The tour opener will commence in Centurion on December 26 with the Test series followed by the ODIs. Rohit Sharma will lead the limited-overs side whereas Virat Kohli will continue as the Test captain.

We have already found the player: Saba Karim names Hardik Pandya's replacement before South Africa ODIs

French swimmer&nbsp;Yannick&nbsp;Agnel, who won two gold medals at the 2012 Olympics, was placed under investigation on Saturday on suspicion of "rape and sexual assault on a 15-year-old minor", the Mulhouse prosecutor's office told AFP.

The 29-year-old was also placed under judicial supervision, said the city's public prosecutor, Edwige Roux-Morizot.

Agnel&nbsp;had been arrested on Thursday in Paris and taken into police custody in Mulhouse in eastern France.

The prosecutor said a complaint had been filed for incidents "around 2016" including the "rape and sexual assault on a 15-year-old minor".

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>

According to French media, "the investigation would follow a complaint from a swimmer who trained with&nbsp;Agnel&nbsp;in Mulhouse between 2014 and 2016.&nbsp;

Angel, at the time a reigning Olympic champion, joined the Mulhouse swimming club (MON) in 2014 and trained there for two years.

"Several swimmers or former swimmers have been interviewed in recent weeks," sports daily L'Equipe reported.

MON, where current French Minister of Sports Roxana Maracineanu, an Olympic backstroke silver medallist in 2000, once trained, is for its part being investigated for "attempted fraud" for events dating back to 2016.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The club has been in dispute with several swimmers, including&nbsp;Agnel&nbsp;who went to court to collect 60,000 euros owed to him by the club for the last year of his contract, French television reported.

Agnel&nbsp;came to international prominence at the&nbsp;2010 European championships when he won gold in the 400-metre freestyle setting a new French and championships record.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/china-worried-about-covid-19-spoiling-beijing-winter-olympics-2022-436260">China worried about COVID-19 spoiling Beijing Winter Olympics 2022</a>

Two years later he starred at the London Olympics when he took gold in the 200m freestyle and the 4x100m freestyle as well as silver in the 4x200m freestyle.

He collected gold in the same two events in the 2013 world championships.

Agnel&nbsp;went to Rio in 2016 to defend his 200m freestyle title but failed to get through the heats, announcing his retirement from swimming soon after.

French swimmer Yannick Agnel, who won two gold medals at the 2012 Olympics, was placed under investigation on Saturday on suspicion of "rape and sexual assault on a 15-year-old minor", the Mulhouse prosecutor's office told AFP.

French swimmer Yannick Agnel, who won two gold medals at the 2012 Olympics, was placed under investigation on Saturday on suspicion of "rape and sexual assault on a 15-year-old minor", the Mulhouse prosecutor's office told AFP. The 29-year-old was also placed under judicial supervision, said the city's public prosecutor, Edwige Roux-Morizot. Agnel had been arrested on Thursday in Paris and taken into police custody in Mulhouse in eastern France. The prosecutor said a complaint had been filed for incidents "around 2016" including the "rape and sexual assault on a 15-year-old minor". ALSO READ: Super Seven! The heroes of India's best-ever Olympic campaign in Tokyo According to French media, "the investigation would follow a complaint from a swimmer who trained with Agnel in Mulhouse between 2014 and 2016. Angel, at the time a reigning Olympic champion, joined the Mulhouse swimming club (MON) in 2014 and trained there for two years. "Several swimmers or former swimmers have been interviewed in recent weeks," sports daily L'Equipe reported. MON, where current French Minister of Sports Roxana Maracineanu, an Olympic backstroke silver medallist in 2000, once trained, is for its part being investigated for "attempted fraud" for events dating back to 2016. The club has been in dispute with several swimmers, including Agnel who went to court to collect 60,000 euros owed to him by the club for the last year of his contract, French television reported. Agnel came to international prominence at the 2010 European championships when he won gold in the 400-metre freestyle setting a new French and championships record. ALSO READ: China worried about COVID-19 spoiling Beijing Winter Olympics 2022 Two years later he starred at the London Olympics when he took gold in the 200m freestyle and the 4x100m freestyle as well as silver in the 4x200m freestyle. He collected gold in the same two events in the 2013 world championships. Agnel went to Rio in 2016 to defend his 200m freestyle title but failed to get through the heats, announcing his retirement from swimming soon after.

Two-time Olympic gold medallist French swimmer Yannick Agnel faces rape investigation

Tennis is a game of minute percentages. The margin of error is minimal and things unfold at a rapid pace. One&nbsp;or two&nbsp;points here and there can open any contest wide open and some shots, rallies or even a mini-break helps a player to revamp and gain some momentum.

Thus, players need to be at their very best to triumph and the fitness levels should be at an all-time high. The upper core of the body needs to be strong for smacking some flawless forehands and backhands whereas the lower body is exposed during drop-shots, coming to the net and sprinting from one corner of the court to the other. While the whole game keeps spectators and viewers at the&nbsp;edge of their seats, rallies often produce some nerve-wracking display of talent and skills from the players.&nbsp;

The longer rallies expose the fitness of players, their agility, speed, presence of mind and plenty more aspects. Since time immemorial, tennis stars have given fans plenty of humdingers in the form of lengthy and brutal rallies. Here's reliving some of them, featuring the Big Three Novak Djokovic, Rafael Nadal, Roger Federer and many more superstars:

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-no-1-ashleigh-barty-to-return-to-action-in-adelaide-nadal-and-osaka-in-melbourne-atp-event-435757">World no. 1 Ashleigh Barty to return to action in Adelaide, Nadal and Osaka in Melbourne ATP event</a>

&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/0V0HQDwM22E" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-who-is-sanjay-singh-a-close-ally-of-leander-paes-guiding-light-of-luisa-stefani-hayley-carter-434127">EXCLUSIVE | Who is Sanjay Singh? A close ally of Leander Paes &amp; guiding light of Luisa Stefani-Hayley Carter</a>

At present, tennis stars are gearing up for the next Grand Slam, which will also kick off the year 2022. The Australian Open will be the first big-ticket event, followed by the French Open, Wimbledon and US Open. On the other hand, various other ATP and WTA events will continue to keep the tennis fans involved in the game all throughout 2022.&nbsp;

The current year is set to end with Serbian great Novak Djokovic at the top in ATP Men's rankings whereas Ashleigh Barty finds herself at the top in the WTA rankings for women's singles.

Tennis is a game of minute percentages. The margin of error is minimal and things unfold at a rapid pace. One or two points here and there can open any contest wide open and some shots, rallies or even a mini-break helps a player to revamp and gain some momentum.

Tennis is a game of minute percentages. The margin of error is minimal and things unfold at a rapid pace. One or two points here and there can open any contest wide open and some shots, rallies or even a mini-break helps a player to revamp and gain some momentum. Thus, players need to be at their very best to triumph and the fitness levels should be at an all-time high. The upper core of the body needs to be strong for smacking some flawless forehands and backhands whereas the lower body is exposed during drop-shots, coming to the net and sprinting from one corner of the court to the other. While the whole game keeps spectators and viewers at the edge of their seats, rallies often produce some nerve-wracking display of talent and skills from the players. The longer rallies expose the fitness of players, their agility, speed, presence of mind and plenty more aspects. Since time immemorial, tennis stars have given fans plenty of humdingers in the form of lengthy and brutal rallies. Here's reliving some of them, featuring the Big Three Novak Djokovic, Rafael Nadal, Roger Federer and many more superstars: ALSO READ | World no. 1 Ashleigh Barty to return to action in Adelaide, Nadal and Osaka in Melbourne ATP event × ALSO READ | EXCLUSIVE | Who is Sanjay Singh? A close ally of Leander Paes & guiding light of Luisa Stefani-Hayley Carter At present, tennis stars are gearing up for the next Grand Slam, which will also kick off the year 2022. The Australian Open will be the first big-ticket event, followed by the French Open, Wimbledon and US Open. On the other hand, various other ATP and WTA events will continue to keep the tennis fans involved in the game all throughout 2022. The current year is set to end with Serbian great Novak Djokovic at the top in ATP Men's rankings whereas Ashleigh Barty finds herself at the top in the WTA rankings for women's singles.

Relive nerve-wracking tennis rallies featuring big guns Novak Djokovic, Rafael Nadal and more - Watch

The All India Football Federation (AIFF) Disciplinary Committee on Monday charged FC Goa forward Jorge Ortiz with violent conduct.

Ortiz was charged for 'pushing an opponent when the ball was not in play'&nbsp;in Match 26 of 2021-22 Indian Super League (ISL) against Bengaluru FC at the Athletic Stadium in Bambolim on Saturday.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/isl-2021-22-jonathan-cristian-stars-as-odisha-fc-beat-northeast-united-fc-1-0-jump-to-second-place-435924">ISL 2021-22: Jonathan Cristian stars as Odisha FC beat NorthEast United FC 1-0, jump to second place</a>

Ortiz was reported of committing an offence by violating Article 48.1.2 of the AIFF Disciplinary Code. The Committee has given time till December 15 to submit a reply.

After being sent off by the AIFF-appointed referee against BFC, the Spaniard will serve his automatic one-match suspension in FC Goa's next assignment against Hyderabad FC on 18th December.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-aim-to-inspire-with-our-game-roundglass-punjab-fc-head-coach-ashley-westwood-ahead-of-new-season-435903">‘We aim to inspire with our game’: RoundGlass Punjab FC Head Coach Ashley Westwood ahead of new season</a>

Meanwhile, ATK Mohun Bagan physiotherapist Luis Alfonso Redondo Martinez, who was shown the red card in Match 25 against Chennaiyin FC has also been charged with a similar offence.

The Committee has accused him of 'violent conduct - pushing using excessive force.'&nbsp;The AIFF body has also provided him with a similar deadline to issue a defence in writing for his actions.&nbsp;

The All India Football Federation (AIFF) Disciplinary Committee on Monday charged FC Goa forward Jorge Ortiz with violent conduct. Ortiz was charged for 'pushing an opponent when the ball was not in play' in Match 26 of 2021-22 Indian Super League (ISL) against Bengaluru FC at the Athletic Stadium in Bambolim on Saturday.

The All India Football Federation (AIFF) Disciplinary Committee on Monday charged FC Goa forward Jorge Ortiz with violent conduct. Ortiz was charged for 'pushing an opponent when the ball was not in play' in Match 26 of 2021-22 Indian Super League (ISL) against Bengaluru FC at the Athletic Stadium in Bambolim on Saturday. ALSO READ: ISL 2021-22: Jonathan Cristian stars as Odisha FC beat NorthEast United FC 1-0, jump to second place Ortiz was reported of committing an offence by violating Article 48.1.2 of the AIFF Disciplinary Code. The Committee has given time till December 15 to submit a reply. After being sent off by the AIFF-appointed referee against BFC, the Spaniard will serve his automatic one-match suspension in FC Goa's next assignment against Hyderabad FC on 18th December. ALSO READ: ‘We aim to inspire with our game’: RoundGlass Punjab FC Head Coach Ashley Westwood ahead of new season Meanwhile, ATK Mohun Bagan physiotherapist Luis Alfonso Redondo Martinez, who was shown the red card in Match 25 against Chennaiyin FC has also been charged with a similar offence. The Committee has accused him of 'violent conduct - pushing using excessive force.' The AIFF body has also provided him with a similar deadline to issue a defence in writing for his actions.

ISL 2021-22: FC Goa's Jorge Ortiz, Mohun Bagan's physiotherapist Luis Martinez charged with violent conduct

Cricket finally returns to Pakistan, after the halt due to the New Zealand team's last-minute withdrawal in mid-September, as the West Indies cricket team are in the Asian country for three T20Is and equal number of ODIs. The visitors will kick off the tour with the three T20Is before the action moves to the 50-over format.

While Pakistan will aim to build on their momentum after thrashing Bangladesh, on their home soil, in the recent T20Is, the Men in Maroon will look to embark upon a new era with several star players missing in the line-up. They will also look to move past their horrific T20 World Cup campaign and be on the look-out for emerging young stars.

For Babar Azam &amp; Co., the skipper and Mohammad Rizwan's opening pair, Asif Ali, Shadab Khan, Shaheen Afridi, etc. will be some of their key players. Hasan Ali, who was trolled for the Men in Green's T20 WC semi-final defeat to Australia, won't be featuring in the three T20Is. Here's all you need to know about the schedule, squads, telecast and live streaming details:

Dec 13: Pakistan vs West Indies 1st T20I, at National Stadium, Karachi 
Dec 14: Pakistan vs West Indies 2nd T20I, at National Stadium, Karachi 
Dec 16: Pakistan vs West Indies 3rd T20I, at National Stadium, Karachi

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/shoaib-akhtar-recalls-meeting-hardik-pandya-during-asia-cup-2018-i-was-shocked-warned-him-about-injury-436121">Shoaib Akhtar recalls meeting Hardik Pandya during Asia Cup 2018: 'I was shocked, warned him about injury'</a>

Pakistan Squad:&nbsp;Babar Azam(c), Mohammad Rizwan(w), Fakhar Zaman, Haider Ali, Khushdil Shah, Asif Ali, Shadab Khan, Mohammad Nawaz, Haris Rauf, Shaheen Afridi, Mohammad Wasim Jr, Shahnawaz Dahani, Usman Qadir, Iftikhar Ahmed, Mohammad Hasnain.&nbsp;

West Indies Squad:&nbsp;Brandon King, Shai Hope, Darren Bravo, Nicholas Pooran(w/c), Rovman Powell, Romario Shepherd, Odean Smith, Dominic Drakes, Akeal Hosein, Hayden Walsh, Oshane Thomas, Gudakesh Motie.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-did-not-give-virat-respect-former-pakistan-bowler-reacts-to-kohlis-sacking-as-indias-odi-captain-436011">'BCCI did not give Virat respect': Former Pakistan bowler reacts to Kohli's sacking as India's ODI captain</a>

Live streaming &amp; telecast:

For the unversed, the live streaming of Pakistan vs West Indies T20I matches will be on SonyLIV. The T20I series&nbsp;will witness a live broadcast&nbsp;on Sony Sports Network.&nbsp;

Cricket finally returns to Pakistan, after the halt due to the New Zealand team's last-minute withdrawal in mid-September, as the West Indies cricket team are in the Asian country for three T20Is and equal number of ODIs.

Cricket finally returns to Pakistan, after the halt due to the New Zealand team's last-minute withdrawal in mid-September, as the West Indies cricket team are in the Asian country for three T20Is and equal number of ODIs. The visitors will kick off the tour with the three T20Is before the action moves to the 50-over format. While Pakistan will aim to build on their momentum after thrashing Bangladesh, on their home soil, in the recent T20Is, the Men in Maroon will look to embark upon a new era with several star players missing in the line-up. They will also look to move past their horrific T20 World Cup campaign and be on the look-out for emerging young stars. For Babar Azam & Co., the skipper and Mohammad Rizwan's opening pair, Asif Ali, Shadab Khan, Shaheen Afridi, etc. will be some of their key players. Hasan Ali, who was trolled for the Men in Green's T20 WC semi-final defeat to Australia, won't be featuring in the three T20Is. Here's all you need to know about the schedule, squads, telecast and live streaming details: Dec 13: Pakistan vs West Indies 1st T20I, at National Stadium, Karachi Dec 14: Pakistan vs West Indies 2nd T20I, at National Stadium, Karachi Dec 16: Pakistan vs West Indies 3rd T20I, at National Stadium, Karachi ALSO READ | Shoaib Akhtar recalls meeting Hardik Pandya during Asia Cup 2018: 'I was shocked, warned him about injury' Pakistan Squad: Babar Azam(c), Mohammad Rizwan(w), Fakhar Zaman, Haider Ali, Khushdil Shah, Asif Ali, Shadab Khan, Mohammad Nawaz, Haris Rauf, Shaheen Afridi, Mohammad Wasim Jr, Shahnawaz Dahani, Usman Qadir, Iftikhar Ahmed, Mohammad Hasnain. West Indies Squad: Brandon King, Shai Hope, Darren Bravo, Nicholas Pooran(w/c), Rovman Powell, Romario Shepherd, Odean Smith, Dominic Drakes, Akeal Hosein, Hayden Walsh, Oshane Thomas, Gudakesh Motie. ALSO READ | 'BCCI did not give Virat respect': Former Pakistan bowler reacts to Kohli's sacking as India's ODI captain Live streaming & telecast: For the unversed, the live streaming of Pakistan vs West Indies T20I matches will be on SonyLIV. The T20I series will witness a live broadcast on Sony Sports Network.

Pakistan vs West Indies, T20Is: Full schedule, squads, telecast and live streaming details!

England head coach Chris Silverwood has confirmed that pace bowling stalwarts James Anderson and Stuart Broad are available for selection for the second Ashes Test here from December 16, but he has "not told anyone they are playing yet". 
 
Silverwood and England captain Joe Root have been criticised for dropping the duo for the opening Ashes Test at Brisbane, which Australia won by nine wickets to take a 1-0 lead in the five-Test series.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashes-josh-hazlewood-flies-home-in-race-against-time-to-be-fit-for-2nd-test-against-england-436309">Ashes: Josh Hazlewood flies home, in race against time to be fit for 2nd Test against England</a> 
 
Broad too seemed unhappy after being included in the 12-member squad the previous day and then being dropped on the morning of The Gabba Test. "It would be wrong in this scenario to kick up a stink. I've been left out on numerous occasions and sometimes it comes as a real surprise," Broad wrote in his column for Daily Mail after England`s defeat. 
 
On Sunday evening Silverwood said that, "They are available, yes. Jimmy (Anderson) will be fit and ready to go for the second Test, as will Stuart (Broad). But I have not told anyone they are playing yet. 
 
"The guys have already been training with the pink ball behind the scenes and what we have got is a very skilful set of bowlers. We have talent and we still have two of the best up our sleeve as well," Silverwood was quoted as saying by metro.co.uk. 
 
England had gone with pacers Ollie Robinson, Chris Woakes, Mark Wood and Ben Stokes and spinner Jack Leach in the Test at The Gabba. While the pace bowlers were economical to some extent, 30-year-old left-arm spinner Leach bled runs, conceding 102 in 13 overs at an economy rate of nearly eight.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashes-england-penalised-five-wtc-points-for-slow-over-rate-travis-head-fined-for-audible-obscenity-436108">Ashes: England penalised five WTC points for slow-over rate, Travis Head fined for 'audible obscenity'</a> 
 
Silverwood said he was unfazed by the criticism and was willing to take responsibility for the big loss. 
 
"It is part of my role to take the criticism because the buck stops with me. I have no problem with that and it is how it should be, but we have to work with what we have got," he added.

England head coach Chris Silverwood has confirmed that pace bowling stalwarts James Anderson and Stuart Broad are available for selection for the second Ashes Test here from December 16, but he has "not told anyone they are playing yet".

England head coach Chris Silverwood has confirmed that pace bowling stalwarts James Anderson and Stuart Broad are available for selection for the second Ashes Test here from December 16, but he has "not told anyone they are playing yet". Silverwood and England captain Joe Root have been criticised for dropping the duo for the opening Ashes Test at Brisbane, which Australia won by nine wickets to take a 1-0 lead in the five-Test series. ALSO READ: Ashes: Josh Hazlewood flies home, in race against time to be fit for 2nd Test against England Broad too seemed unhappy after being included in the 12-member squad the previous day and then being dropped on the morning of The Gabba Test. "It would be wrong in this scenario to kick up a stink. I've been left out on numerous occasions and sometimes it comes as a real surprise," Broad wrote in his column for Daily Mail after England`s defeat. On Sunday evening Silverwood said that, "They are available, yes. Jimmy (Anderson) will be fit and ready to go for the second Test, as will Stuart (Broad). But I have not told anyone they are playing yet. "The guys have already been training with the pink ball behind the scenes and what we have got is a very skilful set of bowlers. We have talent and we still have two of the best up our sleeve as well," Silverwood was quoted as saying by metro.co.uk. England had gone with pacers Ollie Robinson, Chris Woakes, Mark Wood and Ben Stokes and spinner Jack Leach in the Test at The Gabba. While the pace bowlers were economical to some extent, 30-year-old left-arm spinner Leach bled runs, conceding 102 in 13 overs at an economy rate of nearly eight. ALSO READ: Ashes: England penalised five WTC points for slow-over rate, Travis Head fined for 'audible obscenity' Silverwood said he was unfazed by the criticism and was willing to take responsibility for the big loss. "It is part of my role to take the criticism because the buck stops with me. I have no problem with that and it is how it should be, but we have to work with what we have got," he added.

Ashes 2021: James Anderson, Stuart Broad available for selection for second Test

On Sunday (December 12), the Red Bull's driver Max Verstappen edged past the seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton in a nail-biting end to the Formula One season. The race was thoroughly dominated by&nbsp;Hamilton in the season-ending Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, however, the 24-year-old Belgian-Dutch racing driver&nbsp;Verstappen went ahead of his competitor in the final lap to prevent Hamilton from claiming&nbsp;his eighth F1 World title.

For the unversed, Hamilton was on the cusp of lifting his eighth title before&nbsp;Canadian driver Nicholas Latifi crashed his Williams just four laps before the last one, leading to the appearance of the safety car.

Verstappen chose new&nbsp;tyres, however, the veteran 36-year-old Hamilton didn't. Verstappen managed to move past his arch-rival -- courtesy the fresh wheels -- to clinch his maiden Formula One title at the&nbsp;Yas Marina track in Abu Dhabi.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/max-verstappens-maiden-formula-one-world-title-red-bulls-biggest-achievement-so-far-christian-horner-436466">Max Verstappen's maiden Formula One World title Red Bull's biggest achievement so far: Christian Horner</a>

Following Verstappen's thrilling win, many from the sports fraternity reacted to the dramatic turn of events in the Abu Dhabu Grand Prix. From Sachin Tendulkar, Nico Rosberg, Rohit Sharma to Harry Kane, here's how sports personalities reacted to Verstappen's triumph:

Sachin wrote, "What a race! Congrats to Max for becoming the World Champion for the 1st time &amp; there will be many more. However, my heart goes out to Lewis. What a season he’s had too. If not for the safety car, the trophy would’ve been his. Sheer bad luck. All the best for the next season."

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
What a race! 
 
Congrats to Max for becoming the World Champion for the 1st time &amp; there will be many more. 
 
However, my heart goes out to Lewis. What a season he’s had too. If not for the safety car, the trophy would’ve been his. Sheer bad luck. All the best for the next season. <a href="https://t.co/pYPLoin4gO">pic.twitter.com/pYPLoin4gO</a>
— Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) <a href="https://twitter.com/sachin_rt/status/1470054227498225665?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 12, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Rohit tweeted saying, "1 ball 6 required and guess what, Max Verstappen hits it. Unbelievable win #AbuDhabiGP #F1TitleChampionship"

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
1 ball 6 required and guess what, Max Verstappen hits it. Unbelievable win <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AbuDhabiGP?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AbuDhabiGP</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/F1TitleChampionship?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#F1TitleChampionship</a>
— Rohit Sharma (@ImRo45) <a href="https://twitter.com/ImRo45/status/1470041760038461441?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 12, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Nico Rosberg said, "Hats off to Max...big congrats &amp; respect!!! Also an awesome performance by Lewis...it's been an epic F1 season!"

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Hats off to Max...big congrats &amp; respect!!! Also an awesome performance by Lewis...it's been an epic F1 season! 
 
Here's my title reaction from the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AbuDhabiGP?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AbuDhabiGP</a> paddock 👇<a href="https://t.co/bFtIgrE12t">https://t.co/bFtIgrE12t</a>
— Nico Rosberg (@NicoRosberg) <a href="https://twitter.com/NicoRosberg/status/1470091136123482120?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 12, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Harry Kane, Tottenham Hotspur striker and England captain, stated, "I’m new to F1 and it’s been amazing to watch Lewis and Max battle it out. I’m no expert on it but I feel like there’s some bizarre rules that give an unfair advantage like today ? Why should Hamilton be penalised for somebody else’s crash?"

"He literally raced the perfect race under the highest pressure and gets the World Championship taken away from him. Seems like common sense to keep the lead that you’d raced so hard to gain. Shame it had to end like that," he added.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
He literally raced the perfect race under the highest pressure and gets the World Championship taken away from him. Seems like common sense to keep the lead that you’d raced so hard to gain. Shame it had to end like that.
— Harry Kane (@HKane) <a href="https://twitter.com/HKane/status/1470150445431758850?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 12, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/abu-dhabi-gp-mercedes-protest-after-max-verstappen-beats-lewis-hamilton-to-win-f1-title-436362">Abu Dhabi GP: Mercedes protest after Max Verstappen beats Lewis Hamilton to win F1 title</a>

On the other hand,&nbsp;India's first F1 driver Narain Karthikeyan opined that it was Hamilton's race and the decision was unfair.&nbsp;"How the entire situation unfolded, it seemed like they wanted Max to win. It was a great battle for the championship but what happened yesterday it wasn't sport. You need close battles in Formula 1 but it has to be fair at the same time," Karthikeyan told PTI.

On Sunday (December 12), the Red Bull's driver Max Verstappen edged past the seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton in a nail-biting end to the Formula One season.

On Sunday (December 12), the Red Bull's driver Max Verstappen edged past the seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton in a nail-biting end to the Formula One season. The race was thoroughly dominated by Hamilton in the season-ending Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, however, the 24-year-old Belgian-Dutch racing driver Verstappen went ahead of his competitor in the final lap to prevent Hamilton from claiming his eighth F1 World title. For the unversed, Hamilton was on the cusp of lifting his eighth title before Canadian driver Nicholas Latifi crashed his Williams just four laps before the last one, leading to the appearance of the safety car. Verstappen chose new tyres, however, the veteran 36-year-old Hamilton didn't. Verstappen managed to move past his arch-rival -- courtesy the fresh wheels -- to clinch his maiden Formula One title at the Yas Marina track in Abu Dhabi. ALSO READ | Max Verstappen's maiden Formula One World title Red Bull's biggest achievement so far: Christian Horner Following Verstappen's thrilling win, many from the sports fraternity reacted to the dramatic turn of events in the Abu Dhabu Grand Prix. From Sachin Tendulkar, Nico Rosberg, Rohit Sharma to Harry Kane, here's how sports personalities reacted to Verstappen's triumph: Sachin wrote, "What a race! Congrats to Max for becoming the World Champion for the 1st time & there will be many more. However, my heart goes out to Lewis. What a season he’s had too. If not for the safety car, the trophy would’ve been his. Sheer bad luck. All the best for the next season." What a race! Congrats to Max for becoming the World Champion for the 1st time & there will be many more. However, my heart goes out to Lewis. What a season he’s had too. If not for the safety car, the trophy would’ve been his. Sheer bad luck. All the best for the next season. pic.twitter.com/pYPLoin4gO — Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) December 12, 2021 × Rohit tweeted saying, "1 ball 6 required and guess what, Max Verstappen hits it. Unbelievable win #AbuDhabiGP #F1TitleChampionship" 1 ball 6 required and guess what, Max Verstappen hits it. Unbelievable win #AbuDhabiGP #F1TitleChampionship — Rohit Sharma (@ImRo45) December 12, 2021 × Nico Rosberg said, "Hats off to Max...big congrats & respect!!! Also an awesome performance by Lewis...it's been an epic F1 season!" Hats off to Max...big congrats & respect!!! Also an awesome performance by Lewis...it's been an epic F1 season! Here's my title reaction from the #AbuDhabiGP paddock 👇https://t.co/bFtIgrE12t — Nico Rosberg (@NicoRosberg) December 12, 2021 × Harry Kane, Tottenham Hotspur striker and England captain, stated, "I’m new to F1 and it’s been amazing to watch Lewis and Max battle it out. I’m no expert on it but I feel like there’s some bizarre rules that give an unfair advantage like today ? Why should Hamilton be penalised for somebody else’s crash?" "He literally raced the perfect race under the highest pressure and gets the World Championship taken away from him. Seems like common sense to keep the lead that you’d raced so hard to gain. Shame it had to end like that," he added. He literally raced the perfect race under the highest pressure and gets the World Championship taken away from him. Seems like common sense to keep the lead that you’d raced so hard to gain. Shame it had to end like that. — Harry Kane (@HKane) December 12, 2021 × ALSO READ | Abu Dhabi GP: Mercedes protest after Max Verstappen beats Lewis Hamilton to win F1 title On the other hand, India's first F1 driver Narain Karthikeyan opined that it was Hamilton's race and the decision was unfair. "How the entire situation unfolded, it seemed like they wanted Max to win. It was a great battle for the championship but what happened yesterday it wasn't sport. You need close battles in Formula 1 but it has to be fair at the same time," Karthikeyan told PTI.

From Sachin to Rosberg: How sporting fraternity reacted to Max Verstappen's thrilling maiden F1 win

The calendar year is coming to an end. The year 2021 was filled with sporting events, mainly due to the Covid-19 pandemic wreaking havoc in early 2020 and postponing many big-ticket tournaments.&nbsp;

Year 2021 had plenty of action on the 22-yard cricket strip. Talking about Team India, the senior men's team had some glorious highs along with two disheartening lows. While the optimists can claim that India maintained their hold in the top-3 in rankings across formats, one reality also remains that national side couldn't end their eight-year-long ICC-title drought.&nbsp;

Revisiting India's 2021, let us have a look at how Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma-starrer line-up performed in the calendar year:

Conquering all odds Down Under

Ajinkya Rahane-led India managed to draw the 2020/22 Border-Gavaskar Trophy at the halfway stage before 2021 commenced. Coming to the third and penultimate Test, Rishabh Pant's scintillating 97, Cheteshwar Pujara's lengthy stay at the middle and blockathon from R Ashwin-Hanuna Vihari led to the series being wide open, at 1-1, going into the finale at The Gabba, Brisbane.&nbsp;

The fourth and final Test lived upto expectations. Second-stringed India were jolted further with injuries to Ravindra Jadeja, Ashwin, Vihari, Jasprit Bumrah. However, they managed to keep themselves alive on the last day, chasing 328 to break Aussies' proud and unbeaten streak at the venue since 32 years.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/wY6UyatwVTA" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Riding on Washington Sundar, Shardul Thakur's fifties in the first essay, Mohammed Siraj's five-fer and Pant-Pujara's fighting knocks in the final innings, India chased down the total with three wickets in hand to win the series 2-1 in a dramatic fashion.&nbsp;

The Test would easily go down as one of the greatest heists pulled off by a second-stringed side in the toughest format.&nbsp;

England tour of India, 2021

Soon after the triumph versus the Aussies, India hosted England in an all-format tour of the Three Lions.&nbsp;

Test series: India 3, England 1

Losing the series opener, being in a tough spot in the second Test in Chennai, hearing several criticism around the Ahmedabad pitch, Kohli-led India won the four-match Test series 3-1 to confirm their slot in the inaugural WTC final.&nbsp;

The top-performers for the home side were Ashwin (32 wickets and a ton), Axar Patel (27 wickets in his debut series), Pant and Rohit Sharma's contributions with the willow.&nbsp;

Beating Eoin Morgan &amp; Co. in white-ball formats&nbsp;

The five T20Is and three ODIs followed suit. The white-ball series was expected to be a tougher assignment for hosts given England's strength in the shorter formats. The T20Is lived upto expectations before India won it 3-2 eventually. The three ODIs saw India go 1-0 up before Morgan-less England turned it around to level it at 1-1. Nonetheless, the series finale was a tough nut to crack for the hosts before finally winning it 2-1.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dont-find-anything-wrong-former-india-player-opines-on-rohit-sharma-replacing-virat-kohli-as-odi-captain-435854">Don't find anything wrong: Former India player opines on Rohit Sharma replacing Virat Kohli as ODI captain</a>

WTC final - One Where India Never Turned Up&nbsp;

After the England home series, Indian players featured in the IPL 2021 edition, which was cut-short due to the second wave of the Covid-19 pandemic in India. Getting a much-needed breather before WTC final, Team India finally reached the United Kingdom in early June (for WTC final and England Tests).

The ICC World Test Championship (WTC) finale was much-awaited. Entering the final as the No. 1 ranked side, having beaten Australia in their own backyard, India were favourites versus the Black Caps. Nonetheless, India's wait for an ICC title, since 2013, extended as Kane Williamson &amp; Co. produced an all-round performance.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/OAU5dCnHRzc" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Being asked to bat first, at The Rose Bowl, Southampton, India were 70 for no loss before being bundled out for 217. In reply, NZ were dismissed for 249; gaining a vital 32-run. India had no answers to Tim Southee and Kyle Jamieson's pace, swing and bounce as they were dismissed for 170 in the second innings, setting up a paltry 139-run target.

Kiwis, thus, closed the match with 8 wickets to spare and become the World Test Champions. Agony continued for India in ICC events.

India vs England, five Tests in the UK

After the shambles of the WTC final, India regrouped for&nbsp;the five Tests versus Joe Root-led England. Despite coming so close to the WTC title, India missed out in the final hurdle but had to revamp and start from scratch as the second cycle commenced with the England series.

Kohli-led India were up for the challenge. They came close to winning the five-match Test series opener in Edgbaston before rain washed out entire day five's proceedings. The second Test, at Lord's, brought more luck for India as they won their third Test at the venue, first after seven years, with a comprehensive 151-run margin. Jasprit Bumrah-Mohammed Shami's 89-run unbeaten ninth-wicket stand, KL Rahul's first-innings ton, Mohammed Siraj's eight-wicket haul led to India going 1-0 up despite conceding a 27-run lead.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Y1J9_9-vNcU" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

The third Test was a disaster for the visitors, losing by an innings and 76 runs. The fourth and penultimate Test once again tested Kohli's brigade to the core but they triumphed against all odds. Being asked to bat first, India were dismissed for 190, after reeling at 127-7 at one stage. To add to this, they conceded a 99-run lead before staging a comeback for the ages.

Riding on Rohit's 127 and fifties from Cheteshwar Pujara, Shardul Thakur (twin half-centuries in the match), Rishabh Pant and cameos from the tail, India set up a daunting 368-run target for Root &amp; Co. In reply, the hosts fell like nine pins, for 210, to lose by 151 runs. Thus, England gave an unassailable lead to the tourists.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/-nOdSj0u29U" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

The fifth and final Test, in Manchester, got cancelled at the last minute due to Covid-19 crisis in the Indian camp. The series decider will be held next year as Team India loyalists are desperately waiting for the national side's first-ever Test series win on English soil since 2007.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/not-being-able-to-win-icc-title-mightve-cost-virat-kohli-the-odi-captaincy-former-indian-wicketkeeper-435848">Not being able to win ICC title might've cost Virat Kohli the ODI captaincy: Former Indian wicketkeeper</a>

T20 World Cup 2021 - India succumb to new low

After the England Tests and final leg of IPL 2021, in the UAE, the action moved to the Men's T20 World Cup. Starting as one of the strongest contenders, India endured a horrible start. In their opening game, Kohli-led India lost to arch-rivals Pakistan for the first time in World Cup history (both in ODIs and T20Is). Losing by ten wickets, India had a herculean task to stage a comeback.

Nonetheless, more embarrassment awaited the one-time winners. India's losing streak versus New Zealand in ICC events, since 2007, continued as they were hammered by the Black Caps in their second outing. Starring on the brink of an early exit, India gathered themselves to pull off three convincing wins, however, the writing was on the wall long back.

India failed to move past the group stages with three wins from five encounters. Winning against the likes of Afghanistan, Scotland and Namibia didn't matter as the Pakistan and New Zealand encounters dented India's campaign severely.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/some-in-bcci-made-sure-i-dont-get-the-job-ex-india-head-coach-ravi-shastri-makes-glaring-remark-435719">'Some in BCCI made sure I don't get the job': Ex-India head coach Ravi Shastri makes glaring remark</a>

New Zealand tour of India: Start of Rahul Dravid-era

Post the disheartening T20 WC, India began a new era under Rahul Dravid. After much hesitation, Dravid replaced Ravi Shastri to become India's head coach as the former all-rounder's tenure ended with the T20 WC campaign. In addition, Kohli stepped aside as the Indian captain in T20Is -- having made the official announcement prior to the mega event -- and was replaced by Rohit.

While Rohit-led India commenced a new journey in the shortest format with the home series versus NZ. Sans Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami and the likes, India demolished the Black Caps 3-0. The two-match Test series followed suit.

It wasn't going to be easy versus the World Test champions. Hence, Williamson-led Kiwis held onto a fighting draw in the series opener, which saw Ajinkya Rahane leading the side in Kohli's absence. The second and final Test brought Kohli back in action as the hosts humbled the visitors at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai.

Courtesy Mayank Agarwal's 150 and vital contributions from Axar Patel, Jayant Yadav and R Ashwin, India beat New Zealand by a whopping 372-run margin (their biggest win by runs).

India still have a Test left in the calendar year. They are scheduled to tour South Africa, comprising three Tests and ODIs each, but the tour-opener will commence on December 26 with the first Test at Centurion.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/a-new-era-3-reasons-why-rohit-sharmas-appointment-as-odi-captain-can-be-a-good-move-for-team-india-435882">A new era! 3 reasons why Rohit Sharma's appointment as ODI captain can be a good move for Team India</a>

The ICC title wait, unearthing of young stars, change in leadership group

Overall, India had a topsy-turvy ride in 2021. While they continued to remain a solid unit across formats, they particularly flourished in bilateral series as an ICC title continues to evade them. Young stars such as Prasidh Krishna, Mohammed Siraj, Ishan Kishan, Pant, etc. made a mark whereas KL Rahul rose in prominence and stature. Kohli lost limited-overs captaincy altogether as Rohit-Dravid-era has commenced in the white-ball formats.

Team India will hope to continue their dominance at home and conquer more Test series away from home. However, their biggest aim would be to end their eight-year-long ICC-title drought.

The calendar year is coming to an end. The year 2021 was filled with sporting events, mainly due to the Covid-19 pandemic wreaking havoc in early 2020 and postponing many big-ticket tournaments.

The calendar year is coming to an end. The year 2021 was filled with sporting events, mainly due to the Covid-19 pandemic wreaking havoc in early 2020 and postponing many big-ticket tournaments. Year 2021 had plenty of action on the 22-yard cricket strip. Talking about Team India, the senior men's team had some glorious highs along with two disheartening lows. While the optimists can claim that India maintained their hold in the top-3 in rankings across formats, one reality also remains that national side couldn't end their eight-year-long ICC-title drought. Revisiting India's 2021, let us have a look at how Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma-starrer line-up performed in the calendar year: Conquering all odds Down Under Ajinkya Rahane-led India managed to draw the 2020/22 Border-Gavaskar Trophy at the halfway stage before 2021 commenced. Coming to the third and penultimate Test, Rishabh Pant's scintillating 97, Cheteshwar Pujara's lengthy stay at the middle and blockathon from R Ashwin-Hanuna Vihari led to the series being wide open, at 1-1, going into the finale at The Gabba, Brisbane. The fourth and final Test lived upto expectations. Second-stringed India were jolted further with injuries to Ravindra Jadeja, Ashwin, Vihari, Jasprit Bumrah. However, they managed to keep themselves alive on the last day, chasing 328 to break Aussies' proud and unbeaten streak at the venue since 32 years. × Riding on Washington Sundar, Shardul Thakur's fifties in the first essay, Mohammed Siraj's five-fer and Pant-Pujara's fighting knocks in the final innings, India chased down the total with three wickets in hand to win the series 2-1 in a dramatic fashion. The Test would easily go down as one of the greatest heists pulled off by a second-stringed side in the toughest format. England tour of India, 2021 Soon after the triumph versus the Aussies, India hosted England in an all-format tour of the Three Lions. Test series: India 3, England 1 Losing the series opener, being in a tough spot in the second Test in Chennai, hearing several criticism around the Ahmedabad pitch, Kohli-led India won the four-match Test series 3-1 to confirm their slot in the inaugural WTC final. The top-performers for the home side were Ashwin (32 wickets and a ton), Axar Patel (27 wickets in his debut series), Pant and Rohit Sharma's contributions with the willow. Beating Eoin Morgan & Co. in white-ball formats The five T20Is and three ODIs followed suit. The white-ball series was expected to be a tougher assignment for hosts given England's strength in the shorter formats. The T20Is lived upto expectations before India won it 3-2 eventually. The three ODIs saw India go 1-0 up before Morgan-less England turned it around to level it at 1-1. Nonetheless, the series finale was a tough nut to crack for the hosts before finally winning it 2-1. ALSO READ | Don't find anything wrong: Former India player opines on Rohit Sharma replacing Virat Kohli as ODI captain WTC final - One Where India Never Turned Up After the England home series, Indian players featured in the IPL 2021 edition, which was cut-short due to the second wave of the Covid-19 pandemic in India. Getting a much-needed breather before WTC final, Team India finally reached the United Kingdom in early June (for WTC final and England Tests). The ICC World Test Championship (WTC) finale was much-awaited. Entering the final as the No. 1 ranked side, having beaten Australia in their own backyard, India were favourites versus the Black Caps. Nonetheless, India's wait for an ICC title, since 2013, extended as Kane Williamson & Co. produced an all-round performance. × Being asked to bat first, at The Rose Bowl, Southampton, India were 70 for no loss before being bundled out for 217. In reply, NZ were dismissed for 249; gaining a vital 32-run. India had no answers to Tim Southee and Kyle Jamieson's pace, swing and bounce as they were dismissed for 170 in the second innings, setting up a paltry 139-run target. Kiwis, thus, closed the match with 8 wickets to spare and become the World Test Champions. Agony continued for India in ICC events. India vs England, five Tests in the UK After the shambles of the WTC final, India regrouped for the five Tests versus Joe Root-led England. Despite coming so close to the WTC title, India missed out in the final hurdle but had to revamp and start from scratch as the second cycle commenced with the England series. Kohli-led India were up for the challenge. They came close to winning the five-match Test series opener in Edgbaston before rain washed out entire day five's proceedings. The second Test, at Lord's, brought more luck for India as they won their third Test at the venue, first after seven years, with a comprehensive 151-run margin. Jasprit Bumrah-Mohammed Shami's 89-run unbeaten ninth-wicket stand, KL Rahul's first-innings ton, Mohammed Siraj's eight-wicket haul led to India going 1-0 up despite conceding a 27-run lead. × The third Test was a disaster for the visitors, losing by an innings and 76 runs. The fourth and penultimate Test once again tested Kohli's brigade to the core but they triumphed against all odds. Being asked to bat first, India were dismissed for 190, after reeling at 127-7 at one stage. To add to this, they conceded a 99-run lead before staging a comeback for the ages. Riding on Rohit's 127 and fifties from Cheteshwar Pujara, Shardul Thakur (twin half-centuries in the match), Rishabh Pant and cameos from the tail, India set up a daunting 368-run target for Root & Co. In reply, the hosts fell like nine pins, for 210, to lose by 151 runs. Thus, England gave an unassailable lead to the tourists. × The fifth and final Test, in Manchester, got cancelled at the last minute due to Covid-19 crisis in the Indian camp. The series decider will be held next year as Team India loyalists are desperately waiting for the national side's first-ever Test series win on English soil since 2007. ALSO READ | Not being able to win ICC title might've cost Virat Kohli the ODI captaincy: Former Indian wicketkeeper T20 World Cup 2021 - India succumb to new low After the England Tests and final leg of IPL 2021, in the UAE, the action moved to the Men's T20 World Cup. Starting as one of the strongest contenders, India endured a horrible start. In their opening game, Kohli-led India lost to arch-rivals Pakistan for the first time in World Cup history (both in ODIs and T20Is). Losing by ten wickets, India had a herculean task to stage a comeback. Nonetheless, more embarrassment awaited the one-time winners. India's losing streak versus New Zealand in ICC events, since 2007, continued as they were hammered by the Black Caps in their second outing. Starring on the brink of an early exit, India gathered themselves to pull off three convincing wins, however, the writing was on the wall long back. India failed to move past the group stages with three wins from five encounters. Winning against the likes of Afghanistan, Scotland and Namibia didn't matter as the Pakistan and New Zealand encounters dented India's campaign severely. ALSO READ | 'Some in BCCI made sure I don't get the job': Ex-India head coach Ravi Shastri makes glaring remark New Zealand tour of India: Start of Rahul Dravid-era Post the disheartening T20 WC, India began a new era under Rahul Dravid. After much hesitation, Dravid replaced Ravi Shastri to become India's head coach as the former all-rounder's tenure ended with the T20 WC campaign. In addition, Kohli stepped aside as the Indian captain in T20Is -- having made the official announcement prior to the mega event -- and was replaced by Rohit. While Rohit-led India commenced a new journey in the shortest format with the home series versus NZ. Sans Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami and the likes, India demolished the Black Caps 3-0. The two-match Test series followed suit. It wasn't going to be easy versus the World Test champions. Hence, Williamson-led Kiwis held onto a fighting draw in the series opener, which saw Ajinkya Rahane leading the side in Kohli's absence. The second and final Test brought Kohli back in action as the hosts humbled the visitors at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai. Courtesy Mayank Agarwal's 150 and vital contributions from Axar Patel, Jayant Yadav and R Ashwin, India beat New Zealand by a whopping 372-run margin (their biggest win by runs). India still have a Test left in the calendar year. They are scheduled to tour South Africa, comprising three Tests and ODIs each, but the tour-opener will commence on December 26 with the first Test at Centurion. ALSO READ | A new era! 3 reasons why Rohit Sharma's appointment as ODI captain can be a good move for Team India The ICC title wait, unearthing of young stars, change in leadership group Overall, India had a topsy-turvy ride in 2021. While they continued to remain a solid unit across formats, they particularly flourished in bilateral series as an ICC title continues to evade them. Young stars such as Prasidh Krishna, Mohammed Siraj, Ishan Kishan, Pant, etc. made a mark whereas KL Rahul rose in prominence and stature. Kohli lost limited-overs captaincy altogether as Rohit-Dravid-era has commenced in the white-ball formats. Team India will hope to continue their dominance at home and conquer more Test series away from home. However, their biggest aim would be to end their eight-year-long ICC-title drought.

From conquering Aussies Down Under to T20 World Cup debacle: Team India in 2021

Ravi Shastri's tenure as Team India's head coach ended with the national side's exit from the 2021 T20 World Cup, in the UAE. Hence, Shastri's four-year-long tenure as head coach finally came to an end, which included several highs as well as some big jolts.

For the unversed, Shastri took over as the head coach in mid-2017 after Anil Kumble's unceremonious exit. Under him, India beat Australia twice in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy Down Under, earned an unassailable 2-1 lead over England in the five Tests in the United Kingdom early this year, reached the 2019 ODI World Cup semi-finals and ended as runners-up in the inaugural WTC. In addition, India dominated oppositions at home, across formats, and enjoyed wholesome success in limited-overs bilateral series while being on the road.

Nonetheless, the former all-rounder-cum-renowned-commentator's contributions for Indian cricket continued even before he took over as head coach in 2017. In 2014, he was roped in as team director, amid then coach Duncan Fletcher's presence, and continued to perform the role till early 2016. Thus, he was touted to be the ideal candidate to succeed Fletcher (continuing in his role even after Fletcher's departure). However, BCCI went ahead with Kumble before the former Indian spinner's rift with Virat Kohli brought Shastri back into the scheme of things,&nbsp;as the head coach.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-was-given-2-days-to-resign-as-odi-captain-before-bcci-announced-rohit-as-his-successor-report-435370">Virat Kohli was given 2 days to resign as ODI captain before BCCI announced Rohit as his successor: Report</a>

Opining no the time he lost the head coach position in early 2016, Shastri told TOI in a recent interview, "There was this bolt from the blue. In less than two years after I was asked set aside my broadcast career, leave everything else and join the team, I suddenly found myself out for no reason. I had sown the seeds and the fruits were beginning to show and out of nowhere I came to know I was being replaced. Nobody told me why."

On being asked if the decision hurt him, the former cricketer didn't hold back and claimed,&nbsp;"Yes, more than anything, it hurt because of the manner in which it was done. For all that I had contributed, just on one word from the BCCI, there were better ways to let me know 'Oh look we don't want you, we don't like you. We want somebody else'&nbsp;- if that was the case. Anyway, I went back to do what I do best - which is television. Around nine months passed, and I didn't even have a clue that there was anything wrong inside the team. I mean, what could've been wrong? I was told there was a real problem and I said - how can there be a problem in nine months? The team that I had left was in such a good space. How the hell in nine months could something go that drastically wrong?"

Glaring remark by the ex-Indian head coach

He further asserted, "During my second stint, I came after a huge controversy. And it was literally egg on the faces of those who wanted me away. They opted for someone and nine months later, they came back to the very guy they threw out. And I'm not pointing any fingers at people (BCCI) in general. Specific people. I must say an attempt was made to ensure I don't get the job. But such is life."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-is-not-overawed-ravi-shastri-gives-his-take-on-captain-rohit-sharma-as-hitman-succeeds-virat-kohli-435518">'He is not overawed' - Ravi Shastri gives his take on Captain Rohit Sharma as Hitman succeeds Virat Kohli</a>

Thus, Shastri has pointed fingers at few people in the BCCI who didn't want him as the head coach initially in 2016. At present, he has been succeeded by Rahul Dravid whereas Team India have also gone through several changes post Shastri's exit.&nbsp;

Kohli has been replaced by Rohit Sharma as India's limited-overs captain. While the former continues to be in-charge of the Test side, Rohit has been promoted as his deputy in whites.

India are next scheduled to play three Tests and ODIs each versus South Africa, in the African nation, from December 26.

Ravi Shastri's tenure as Team India's head coach ended with the national side's exit from the 2021 T20 World Cup, in the UAE. Hence, Shastri's four-year-long tenure as head coach finally came to an end, which included several highs as well as some big jolts.

Ravi Shastri's tenure as Team India's head coach ended with the national side's exit from the 2021 T20 World Cup, in the UAE. Hence, Shastri's four-year-long tenure as head coach finally came to an end, which included several highs as well as some big jolts. For the unversed, Shastri took over as the head coach in mid-2017 after Anil Kumble's unceremonious exit. Under him, India beat Australia twice in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy Down Under, earned an unassailable 2-1 lead over England in the five Tests in the United Kingdom early this year, reached the 2019 ODI World Cup semi-finals and ended as runners-up in the inaugural WTC. In addition, India dominated oppositions at home, across formats, and enjoyed wholesome success in limited-overs bilateral series while being on the road. Nonetheless, the former all-rounder-cum-renowned-commentator's contributions for Indian cricket continued even before he took over as head coach in 2017. In 2014, he was roped in as team director, amid then coach Duncan Fletcher's presence, and continued to perform the role till early 2016. Thus, he was touted to be the ideal candidate to succeed Fletcher (continuing in his role even after Fletcher's departure). However, BCCI went ahead with Kumble before the former Indian spinner's rift with Virat Kohli brought Shastri back into the scheme of things, as the head coach. ALSO READ | Virat Kohli was given 2 days to resign as ODI captain before BCCI announced Rohit as his successor: Report Opining no the time he lost the head coach position in early 2016, Shastri told TOI in a recent interview, "There was this bolt from the blue. In less than two years after I was asked set aside my broadcast career, leave everything else and join the team, I suddenly found myself out for no reason. I had sown the seeds and the fruits were beginning to show and out of nowhere I came to know I was being replaced. Nobody told me why." On being asked if the decision hurt him, the former cricketer didn't hold back and claimed, "Yes, more than anything, it hurt because of the manner in which it was done. For all that I had contributed, just on one word from the BCCI, there were better ways to let me know 'Oh look we don't want you, we don't like you. We want somebody else' - if that was the case. Anyway, I went back to do what I do best - which is television. Around nine months passed, and I didn't even have a clue that there was anything wrong inside the team. I mean, what could've been wrong? I was told there was a real problem and I said - how can there be a problem in nine months? The team that I had left was in such a good space. How the hell in nine months could something go that drastically wrong?" Glaring remark by the ex-Indian head coach He further asserted, "During my second stint, I came after a huge controversy. And it was literally egg on the faces of those who wanted me away. They opted for someone and nine months later, they came back to the very guy they threw out. And I'm not pointing any fingers at people (BCCI) in general. Specific people. I must say an attempt was made to ensure I don't get the job. But such is life." ALSO READ | 'He is not overawed' - Ravi Shastri gives his take on Captain Rohit Sharma as Hitman succeeds Virat Kohli Thus, Shastri has pointed fingers at few people in the BCCI who didn't want him as the head coach initially in 2016. At present, he has been succeeded by Rahul Dravid whereas Team India have also gone through several changes post Shastri's exit. Kohli has been replaced by Rohit Sharma as India's limited-overs captain. While the former continues to be in-charge of the Test side, Rohit has been promoted as his deputy in whites. India are next scheduled to play three Tests and ODIs each versus South Africa, in the African nation, from December 26.

'Some in BCCI made sure I don't get the job': Ex-India head coach Ravi Shastri makes glaring remark

Tottenham Hotspur have had a second match postponed this week after the Premier League agreed on Thursday to call off Sunday`s game at Brighton &amp; Hove Albion due to a number of COVID-19 cases at the London club. Spurs had their Europa Conference League game at home to Stade Rennais on Thursday called off by UEFA on Wednesday after the club said they had 13 positive coronavirus cases -- eight players and five members of staff. 
"The Premier League Board has taken the decision to postpone the game following guidance from medical advisers, with the health of players and staff the priority," the league said in a statement.

"The postponed fixture will be rescheduled in due course and the Premier League wishes a quick recovery to those with COVID-19." Rennes criticised the decision to postpone the Europa League game, saying it was taken unilaterally by Tottenham and that they reserved the right to appeal to UEFA.

"UEFA can confirm that the UEFA Europa Conference League group stage match, Tottenham Hotspur v Stade Rennais FC, which was due to be played on 9 December in London, will not be taking place as scheduled," the governing body said in a statement. It is unclear whether other Spurs games will be affected. They are due to play at Leicester City in the league on Dec. 16 and at home to Liverpool on Dec. 19.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-manchester-united-held-by-young-boys-1-1-in-their-last-group-encounter-435397">Champions League: Manchester United held by Young Boys 1-1 in their last group encounter</a>

Vitesse Arnhem, level with Tottenham in Europa Conference League Group G on seven points from five games, were due to host Mura on Thursday at the same time (2000GMT) as the Spurs-Rennes match. 
The Dutch side said in a statement that they had asked UEFA to postpone their clash as well as they were concerned about the fairness of the matches taking place separately. Vitesse and Spurs are vying to finish second and secure a spot in a playoff round before the last 16.

Rennes have reached the last 16 as Group G winners on 11 points after five matches. Spurs are above Vitesse on goal difference, with Slovenian side Mura out of contention on three. "Vitesse has not (yet) received an official message from UEFA about the consequences of the cancellation in London for Vitesse vs NS Mura," Vitesse said in a statement.

"If Tottenham Hotspur vs Stade Rennais FC is moved to a later date that will be a significant disadvantage for Vitesse from a sporting point of view because both teams are highly dependent on each other`s result." 
UEFA said on Thursday the match would go ahead as scheduled.

Tottenham Hotspur have had a second match postponed this week after the Premier League agreed on Thursday to call off Sunday`s game at Brighton & Hove Albion due to a number of COVID-19 cases at the London club.

Tottenham Hotspur have had a second match postponed this week after the Premier League agreed on Thursday to call off Sunday`s game at Brighton & Hove Albion due to a number of COVID-19 cases at the London club. Spurs had their Europa Conference League game at home to Stade Rennais on Thursday called off by UEFA on Wednesday after the club said they had 13 positive coronavirus cases -- eight players and five members of staff. "The Premier League Board has taken the decision to postpone the game following guidance from medical advisers, with the health of players and staff the priority," the league said in a statement. "The postponed fixture will be rescheduled in due course and the Premier League wishes a quick recovery to those with COVID-19." Rennes criticised the decision to postpone the Europa League game, saying it was taken unilaterally by Tottenham and that they reserved the right to appeal to UEFA. "UEFA can confirm that the UEFA Europa Conference League group stage match, Tottenham Hotspur v Stade Rennais FC, which was due to be played on 9 December in London, will not be taking place as scheduled," the governing body said in a statement. It is unclear whether other Spurs games will be affected. They are due to play at Leicester City in the league on Dec. 16 and at home to Liverpool on Dec. 19. ALSO READ | Champions League: Manchester United held by Young Boys 1-1 in their last group encounter Vitesse Arnhem, level with Tottenham in Europa Conference League Group G on seven points from five games, were due to host Mura on Thursday at the same time (2000GMT) as the Spurs-Rennes match. The Dutch side said in a statement that they had asked UEFA to postpone their clash as well as they were concerned about the fairness of the matches taking place separately. Vitesse and Spurs are vying to finish second and secure a spot in a playoff round before the last 16. Rennes have reached the last 16 as Group G winners on 11 points after five matches. Spurs are above Vitesse on goal difference, with Slovenian side Mura out of contention on three. "Vitesse has not (yet) received an official message from UEFA about the consequences of the cancellation in London for Vitesse vs NS Mura," Vitesse said in a statement. "If Tottenham Hotspur vs Stade Rennais FC is moved to a later date that will be a significant disadvantage for Vitesse from a sporting point of view because both teams are highly dependent on each other`s result." UEFA said on Thursday the match would go ahead as scheduled.

Premier League: Tottenham Hotspur vs Brighton match postponed due to Covid-19

There will be no World Tennis Tour events held in China in 2022, an International Tennis Federation (ITF) source confirmed to Reuters on Thursday. The source did not say if the move was linked to concerns over the health and safety of doubles star Peng Shuai. In the last full season in 2019 before the COVID-19 pandemic, China hosted about 25 ITF women’s and 15 men’s events.

World Tennis Tour events are professional tournaments below the elite level. The ITF Women`s World Tennis Tour offers approximately 500 tournaments across 65 countries offering prize money from $15,000 to $100,000. 
"No men’s or women’s ITF World Tennis Tour tournaments are scheduled to be played in China in 2022," an ITF source told Reuters without providing any further details.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/peng-shuai-row-china-hits-back-at-wta-for-politicising-sport-after-it-suspends-all-tournaments-in-country-433494">Peng Shuai row: China hits back at WTA for 'politicising sport' after it suspends all tournaments in country</a>

The ITF gave no reason for the decision but it follows the Women`s Tennis Association`s (WTA) move to suspend tournaments in China following Peng`s accusations of sexual assault against a former vice premier. Peng, a former doubles world number one, was unseen in public for nearly three weeks after she posted a message on social media in November accusing China`s former Vice-Premier Zhang Gaoli of forcing her into sex, with her whereabouts becoming a matter of international concern.

Unlike the WTA, the ITF does not have major professional tournaments in China and is more focused on grassroots development events.

There will be no World Tennis Tour events held in China in 2022, an International Tennis Federation (ITF) source confirmed to Reuters on Thursday. The source did not say if the move was linked to concerns over the health and safety of doubles star Peng Shuai.

There will be no World Tennis Tour events held in China in 2022, an International Tennis Federation (ITF) source confirmed to Reuters on Thursday. The source did not say if the move was linked to concerns over the health and safety of doubles star Peng Shuai. In the last full season in 2019 before the COVID-19 pandemic, China hosted about 25 ITF women’s and 15 men’s events. World Tennis Tour events are professional tournaments below the elite level. The ITF Women`s World Tennis Tour offers approximately 500 tournaments across 65 countries offering prize money from $15,000 to $100,000. "No men’s or women’s ITF World Tennis Tour tournaments are scheduled to be played in China in 2022," an ITF source told Reuters without providing any further details. ALSO READ | Peng Shuai row: China hits back at WTA for 'politicising sport' after it suspends all tournaments in country The ITF gave no reason for the decision but it follows the Women`s Tennis Association`s (WTA) move to suspend tournaments in China following Peng`s accusations of sexual assault against a former vice premier. Peng, a former doubles world number one, was unseen in public for nearly three weeks after she posted a message on social media in November accusing China`s former Vice-Premier Zhang Gaoli of forcing her into sex, with her whereabouts becoming a matter of international concern. Unlike the WTA, the ITF does not have major professional tournaments in China and is more focused on grassroots development events.

Peng Shuai row? No World Tennis Tour events in China in 2022, confirms ITF source

The Beijing Winter Olympics will mainly rely on temporary and chartered flights from cities such as Tokyo and Singapore to bring in athletes for the Games due to China`s tight travel curbs and amid concerns over COVID-19, an official said on Friday. 
 
"The Omicron variant has already spread to over 50 countries, according to WHO data," said Zhang Liang, an official with the Beijing Olympics organising committee, at a briefing. "The epidemic prevention situation is still severe and complicated." 
 
The Beijing Olympics, which are due to begin on Feb. 4, will rely on chartered and temporary flights to bring in athletes and other Games attendees, with commercial flights as a supplement, said Zhang. Athletes and other attendees will have to arrive at Beijing Capital International Airport before entering a closed loop, strictly separated from other areas of China, where they will remain for their entire stay before leaving.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/france-minister-confirms-country-will-not-join-boycott-of-beijing-olympics-435419">France minister confirms country will not join boycott of Beijing Olympics</a>

Chinese and foreign airlines will participate in organising these temporary flights from cities like Hong Kong, Singapore, Paris, and Tokyo, he said. 
 
"During the peak periods of arrivals and departures to Beijing, an average of at least 15 inbound flights and 13 outbound flights can be provided every day," he said. 
 
China has put in place strict limitations on flights into the country amid some of the tightest COVID-19 controls in the world.

The Beijing Winter Olympics will mainly rely on temporary and chartered flights from cities such as Tokyo and Singapore to bring in athletes for the Games due to China`s tight travel curbs and amid concerns over COVID-19, an official said on Friday.

The Beijing Winter Olympics will mainly rely on temporary and chartered flights from cities such as Tokyo and Singapore to bring in athletes for the Games due to China`s tight travel curbs and amid concerns over COVID-19, an official said on Friday. "The Omicron variant has already spread to over 50 countries, according to WHO data," said Zhang Liang, an official with the Beijing Olympics organising committee, at a briefing. "The epidemic prevention situation is still severe and complicated." The Beijing Olympics, which are due to begin on Feb. 4, will rely on chartered and temporary flights to bring in athletes and other Games attendees, with commercial flights as a supplement, said Zhang. Athletes and other attendees will have to arrive at Beijing Capital International Airport before entering a closed loop, strictly separated from other areas of China, where they will remain for their entire stay before leaving. ALSO READ | France minister confirms country will not join boycott of Beijing Olympics Chinese and foreign airlines will participate in organising these temporary flights from cities like Hong Kong, Singapore, Paris, and Tokyo, he said. "During the peak periods of arrivals and departures to Beijing, an average of at least 15 inbound flights and 13 outbound flights can be provided every day," he said. China has put in place strict limitations on flights into the country amid some of the tightest COVID-19 controls in the world.

Beijing 2022 Games to bring in athletes on chartered, temporary flights

Author

Zee News Rajasthan

Editor

Aditya Sahay

Home

Live Tv

Latest

World

India

Business

Entertainment

Sports

Opinions

Videos

Photos

Gravitas

Lifestyle

Science

Tech

Rajasthan News in Hindi: In-depth coverage of Rajasthan Crime, Political News, Education, Rajasthan Weather Update and Latest Rajasthan News on Zee News Rajasthan.