Virat Kohli-led Team India beat New Zealand by 372 runs (their biggest win in terms of runs) in the second and final Test at Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai on Monday morning (December 6). Resuming Day 4, India needed 5 more wickets for a series win and the home side completed the proceedings in less than a session by bundling out the Kiwis for 167, in pursuit of 540.

Opting to bat first, India made 325 courtesy Mayank Agarwal's 150. In reply, NZ lost the plot by being dismissed for 62 as India declared their second innings at 276-7. In return, the Black Caps made 167 all-out on Day 4's morning session to lose the match and series 1-0.

The series decider saw plenty of star performers for Team India, in the form of Mayank, Axar Patel, R Ashwin, Jayant Yadav, Shubman Gill, Mohammed Siraj, etc. While India will now travel to South Africa for an all-important three-match Test series, from December 26, many former cricketers and experts feel vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane should now be dropped given his poor returns with the bat coupled with the presence of Shreyas Iyer,&nbsp;Hanuma Vihari, etc.

Rahane's scores after his Melbourne ton are as follows:

27* 
22 
4 
37 
24 
1 
0 
67 
10 
7 
DNB 
27 
49 
15 
5 
DNB 
1 
61 
18 
10 
14 
0 
35 
4

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-wishes-fan-happy-birthday-ahead-of-day-4-of-india-vs-new-zealand-mumbai-test-watch-434598">Virat Kohli wishes fan 'happy birthday' ahead of Day 4 of India vs New Zealand Mumbai Test - Watch</a>

However, Captain Kohli has continued to back Rahane and told in the post-match conference. On being asked about under-fire Rahane, Kohli said, "I cannot judge Ajinkya’s form. I think no one can judge it. The individual in question knows the areas of the game he needs to work on. We need to back players who have come up with impact performances for us in the past under difficult circumstances in key Test matches."

“If there is some pressure on an individual and people start creating an environment wherein everyone is asking “what happens next?”, we don’t entertain that as a team. We cannot expect that balance outside. The same people who praise certain players want them out of the team after two months. We have never reacted like that and we never will because we know the amount of effort that goes into it (playing the game). We will support him, whether it is Ajinkya or someone else. We won’t take a decision based on the atmosphere outside,” Kohli further asserted.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-creates-history-becomes-1st-player-to-win-50-international-matches-across-all-formats-434603">Virat Kohli creates history, becomes 1st player to win 50 international matches across all formats</a>

Rahane has managed only two fifty-plus scores since his Melbourne Test ton versus Australia, which came in the previous edition of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2020/21. The senior pro will have all eyes on him in the upcoming three Tests versus the Proteas as many have called for his omission from the Test line-up.

Virat Kohli-led Team India beat New Zealand by 372 runs (their biggest win in terms of runs) in the second and final Test at Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai on Monday morning (December 6).

Virat Kohli-led Team India beat New Zealand by 372 runs (their biggest win in terms of runs) in the second and final Test at Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai on Monday morning (December 6). Resuming Day 4, India needed 5 more wickets for a series win and the home side completed the proceedings in less than a session by bundling out the Kiwis for 167, in pursuit of 540. Opting to bat first, India made 325 courtesy Mayank Agarwal's 150. In reply, NZ lost the plot by being dismissed for 62 as India declared their second innings at 276-7. In return, the Black Caps made 167 all-out on Day 4's morning session to lose the match and series 1-0. The series decider saw plenty of star performers for Team India, in the form of Mayank, Axar Patel, R Ashwin, Jayant Yadav, Shubman Gill, Mohammed Siraj, etc. While India will now travel to South Africa for an all-important three-match Test series, from December 26, many former cricketers and experts feel vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane should now be dropped given his poor returns with the bat coupled with the presence of Shreyas Iyer, Hanuma Vihari, etc. Rahane's scores after his Melbourne ton are as follows: 27* 22 4 37 24 1 0 67 10 7 DNB 27 49 15 5 DNB 1 61 18 10 14 0 35 4 ALSO READ | Virat Kohli wishes fan 'happy birthday' ahead of Day 4 of India vs New Zealand Mumbai Test - Watch However, Captain Kohli has continued to back Rahane and told in the post-match conference. On being asked about under-fire Rahane, Kohli said, "I cannot judge Ajinkya’s form. I think no one can judge it. The individual in question knows the areas of the game he needs to work on. We need to back players who have come up with impact performances for us in the past under difficult circumstances in key Test matches." “If there is some pressure on an individual and people start creating an environment wherein everyone is asking “what happens next?”, we don’t entertain that as a team. We cannot expect that balance outside. The same people who praise certain players want them out of the team after two months. We have never reacted like that and we never will because we know the amount of effort that goes into it (playing the game). We will support him, whether it is Ajinkya or someone else. We won’t take a decision based on the atmosphere outside,” Kohli further asserted. ALSO READ | Virat Kohli creates history, becomes 1st player to win 50 international matches across all formats Rahane has managed only two fifty-plus scores since his Melbourne Test ton versus Australia, which came in the previous edition of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2020/21. The senior pro will have all eyes on him in the upcoming three Tests versus the Proteas as many have called for his omission from the Test line-up.

'Won’t take a decision based....': Virat Kohli continues to back Ajinkya Rahane amid widespread criticism

The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Monday said that the full fixture set for the ICC T20 World Cup in Australia next year will be announced on January 21, 2022. 
 
In all, a total of 45 matches will be played across seven venues in Australia -&nbsp;Adelaide, Brisbane, Geelong, Hobart, Melbourne, Perth and Sydney&nbsp;between October 16 and November 13 next year, and the tournament will be held exactly one year after the Aaron Finch-led Australian side won its maiden ICC T20 World Cup, in the UAE recently defeating New Zealand.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-led-india-regain-no-1-spot-in-icc-test-rankings-after-series-win-vs-new-zealand-434531">Virat Kohli-led India regain No. 1 spot in ICC Test rankings after series win vs New Zealand</a> 
 
The ICC issued a statement on Monday saying, "The Men's T20 World Cup 2022 is less than 11 months away and fans can soon start preparing their World Cup experience with the full fixture set to be announced on January 21, 2022. With the announcement of the fixture, fans will be able to plan which matches they want to attend and where, before tickets go on sale to the public on February 7, 2022." 
 
The final of the T20 World Cup will be played under lights at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) on November 13, 2022, while the semifinals will be hosted at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) and Adelaide Oval on November 9 and 10, respectively. 
 
The ICC had announced in November this year that the Men's T20 World Cup 2021 champions Australia and runners-up New Zealand, besides Afghanistan, Bangladesh, England, India, Pakistan and South Africa (as the next highest ranked teams) will gain direct entry into the Super 12 stage of the next edition of the tournament.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/updated-world-test-championship-points-table-after-india-win-series-vs-new-zealand-at-home-434499">Updated World Test Championship points table after India win series vs New Zealand at home</a> 
 
Namibia, Scotland, Sri Lanka and the West Indies will play in Round 1. The four remaining spots at Australia 2022 will be filled via the ongoing qualification pathway, culminating in two global qualifying tournaments one to take place in Oman in February and the other in Zimbabwe in July.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Monday said that the full fixture set for the ICC T20 World Cup in Australia next year will be announced on January 21, 2022.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Monday said that the full fixture set for the ICC T20 World Cup in Australia next year will be announced on January 21, 2022. In all, a total of 45 matches will be played across seven venues in Australia - Adelaide, Brisbane, Geelong, Hobart, Melbourne, Perth and Sydney between October 16 and November 13 next year, and the tournament will be held exactly one year after the Aaron Finch-led Australian side won its maiden ICC T20 World Cup, in the UAE recently defeating New Zealand. ALSO READ: Virat Kohli-led India regain No. 1 spot in ICC Test rankings after series win vs New Zealand The ICC issued a statement on Monday saying, "The Men's T20 World Cup 2022 is less than 11 months away and fans can soon start preparing their World Cup experience with the full fixture set to be announced on January 21, 2022. With the announcement of the fixture, fans will be able to plan which matches they want to attend and where, before tickets go on sale to the public on February 7, 2022." The final of the T20 World Cup will be played under lights at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) on November 13, 2022, while the semifinals will be hosted at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) and Adelaide Oval on November 9 and 10, respectively. The ICC had announced in November this year that the Men's T20 World Cup 2021 champions Australia and runners-up New Zealand, besides Afghanistan, Bangladesh, England, India, Pakistan and South Africa (as the next highest ranked teams) will gain direct entry into the Super 12 stage of the next edition of the tournament. ALSO READ | Updated World Test Championship points table after India win series vs New Zealand at home Namibia, Scotland, Sri Lanka and the West Indies will play in Round 1. The four remaining spots at Australia 2022 will be filled via the ongoing qualification pathway, culminating in two global qualifying tournaments one to take place in Oman in February and the other in Zimbabwe in July.

ICC to announce T20 World Cup Australia full schedule on January 21

India thrashed New Zealand by 372 runs on Day 4 of the second and final Test at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai on Monday morning (December 6). Resuming the penultimate day with the home side needing 5 more wickets to go 1-0 up in the series finale, R Ashwin and Jayant Yadav's four-fers led to the Kiwis being bundled out for 167 in less than a session to lose by a handsome margin.

It was a flawless Test match for Virat Kohli-led India, who opted to bat first and posted 325. Courtesy Mayank Agarwal's 150, India made 325 and bundled out the Kiwis for 62 to earn a huge first-innings lead. In their second essay, India declared at 276-7 whereas the Black Caps posted only 167 in the final innings to fall apart like nine pins in the series decider after a fighting draw in the first Test at Kanpur.

Before Day 4 commenced on Monday morning, Captain Kohli made the day of a fan&nbsp;who was waiting for Team India players before their entry to the ground.. As the fan was celebrating his birthday, the 33-year-old Kohli wished him and the video of the same has gone viral on social media platforms. Here's the clip:

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohlis-india-bag-14th-consecutive-test-series-on-home-soil-after-1-0-scoreline-vs-nz-434562">Virat Kohli's India bag 14th consecutive Test series on home soil after 1-0 scoreline vs NZ</a>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Here's KING VIRAT KOHLI wishing me happy birthday 
 
Your favourite cricketer wishes you on your big day, India wins the match &amp; you feature on TV... Can't get bigger than this... 
 
I love you Virat. Best human ever..<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvsNZ?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvsNZ</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ViratKohli?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ViratKohli</a> <a href="https://t.co/6hmIQgvEtg">pic.twitter.com/6hmIQgvEtg</a>
— Vinesh Prabhu (@vlp1994) <a href="https://twitter.com/vlp1994/status/1467750346160173059?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 6, 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/virat-kohli-led-india-regain-no-1-spot-in-icc-test-rankings-after-series-win-vs-new-zealand-434531">Virat Kohli-led India regain No. 1 spot in ICC Test rankings after series win vs New Zealand</a>

Kohli returned to international cricket, following the T20 World Cup 2021 edition in the UAE,&nbsp;during the Mumbai Test. While he didn't manage a big score in the match, he led the side to a whopping 372-run win over the World Test Champions NZ. With the series win, India bagged their 14th successive Test series on home soil and regained the top spot in the ICC Test Rankings before their all-important three-match Test series versus South Africa in the African nation, from December 26 in Centurion.

India thrashed New Zealand by 372 runs on Day 4 of the second and final Test at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai on Monday morning (December 6). Resuming the penultimate day with the home side needing 5 more wickets to go 1-0 up in the series finale, R Ashwin and Jayant Yadav's four-fers led to the Kiwis being bundled out for 167 in less than a session to lose by a handsome margin.

India thrashed New Zealand by 372 runs on Day 4 of the second and final Test at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai on Monday morning (December 6). Resuming the penultimate day with the home side needing 5 more wickets to go 1-0 up in the series finale, R Ashwin and Jayant Yadav's four-fers led to the Kiwis being bundled out for 167 in less than a session to lose by a handsome margin. It was a flawless Test match for Virat Kohli-led India, who opted to bat first and posted 325. Courtesy Mayank Agarwal's 150, India made 325 and bundled out the Kiwis for 62 to earn a huge first-innings lead. In their second essay, India declared at 276-7 whereas the Black Caps posted only 167 in the final innings to fall apart like nine pins in the series decider after a fighting draw in the first Test at Kanpur. Before Day 4 commenced on Monday morning, Captain Kohli made the day of a fan who was waiting for Team India players before their entry to the ground.. As the fan was celebrating his birthday, the 33-year-old Kohli wished him and the video of the same has gone viral on social media platforms. Here's the clip: ALSO READ | Virat Kohli's India bag 14th consecutive Test series on home soil after 1-0 scoreline vs NZ Here's KING VIRAT KOHLI wishing me happy birthday Your favourite cricketer wishes you on your big day, India wins the match & you feature on TV... Can't get bigger than this... I love you Virat. Best human ever..#INDvsNZ #ViratKohli pic.twitter.com/6hmIQgvEtg — Vinesh Prabhu (@vlp1994) December 6, 2021 × ALSO READ | Virat Kohli-led India regain No. 1 spot in ICC Test rankings after series win vs New Zealand Kohli returned to international cricket, following the T20 World Cup 2021 edition in the UAE, during the Mumbai Test. While he didn't manage a big score in the match, he led the side to a whopping 372-run win over the World Test Champions NZ. With the series win, India bagged their 14th successive Test series on home soil and regained the top spot in the ICC Test Rankings before their all-important three-match Test series versus South Africa in the African nation, from December 26 in Centurion.

Virat Kohli wishes fan 'happy birthday' ahead of Day 4 of India vs New Zealand Mumbai Test - Watch

Team India demolished New Zealand by a whopping 372-run margin in the second and final Test to win the series 1-0. After a drawn first Test, Tom Latham-led Black Caps fell like nine pins in the series decider following their no-show with the bat in the first innings.

Opting to bat first, India rode on Mayank Agarwal's 150 to post 325 all-out. NZ spinner Ajaz Patel made heads turn with his ten-wicket haul, being only the third bowler to the milestone, but the Kiwis failed to get going with the willow in their first innings to fold for 62. Courtesy a solid first-innings lead, India declared at 276-7, setting up a daunting 540-run target for the visitors.

In reply, NZ were bundled out for 167 all-out, courtesy R Ashwin and Jayant Yadav's four-fers, as they lost by a huge margin. With this win, India not only won their 14th successive series at home in the longest format but also regained the No. 1 spot in ICC Test Rankings.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/updated-world-test-championship-points-table-after-india-win-series-vs-new-zealand-at-home-434499">Updated World Test Championship points table after India win series vs New Zealand at home</a>

India, with 124 points,&nbsp;are now three rating points ahead of World Test champions NZ, 121, in the Test Rankings. On the other hand, the Ashes rivals Australia and England are on third and fourth spots respectively.

At the post-match presentation, Kohli opined,&nbsp;"To come back with a win again, it's a great feeling and a clinical performance. You want individuals to step up. The first Test was good, and it was a clinical performance here. We discussed the performance and the opposition played out a good draw. The bowlers tried all their best, but the Kiwi batsmen stuck it out really well in Kanpur. Here there was more bounce and the fast bowlers got assistance as well, so it gave us a better chance to win the Test match. The mindset is the same to take Indian cricket forward, even with the new management. It's important to keep the standards of Indian cricket and make sure it's always growing. "

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-opines-on-rahul-dravid-led-support-staff-taking-over-from-shastri-co-after-nz-series-win-434487">Virat Kohli opines on Rahul Dravid-led support staff taking over from Shastri &amp; Co. after NZ series win</a>

Dravid, on the other hand, told the broadcasters, "Good to finish the Test series on a winning note, came very close in Kanpur, but couldn't take that last wicket. Credit to the team, they have pulled themselves back from tough situations, and were a bit disappointed at not finishing it off in Kanpur. Good to see the boys step up and take their opportunities, we were missing a few seniors, but the youngsters have taken their chances."

India will now shift their focus to the three Tests versus South Africa in the African nation, from December 26, whereas Kane Williamson &amp; Co. will host the Bangla Tigers, later this month, for a two-match Test series.

Team India demolished New Zealand by a whopping 372-run margin in the second and final Test to win the series 1-0. After a drawn first Test, Tom Latham-led Black Caps fell like nine pins in the series decider following their no-show with the bat in the first innings.

Team India demolished New Zealand by a whopping 372-run margin in the second and final Test to win the series 1-0. After a drawn first Test, Tom Latham-led Black Caps fell like nine pins in the series decider following their no-show with the bat in the first innings. Opting to bat first, India rode on Mayank Agarwal's 150 to post 325 all-out. NZ spinner Ajaz Patel made heads turn with his ten-wicket haul, being only the third bowler to the milestone, but the Kiwis failed to get going with the willow in their first innings to fold for 62. Courtesy a solid first-innings lead, India declared at 276-7, setting up a daunting 540-run target for the visitors. In reply, NZ were bundled out for 167 all-out, courtesy R Ashwin and Jayant Yadav's four-fers, as they lost by a huge margin. With this win, India not only won their 14th successive series at home in the longest format but also regained the No. 1 spot in ICC Test Rankings. ALSO READ | Updated World Test Championship points table after India win series vs New Zealand at home India, with 124 points, are now three rating points ahead of World Test champions NZ, 121, in the Test Rankings. On the other hand, the Ashes rivals Australia and England are on third and fourth spots respectively. At the post-match presentation, Kohli opined, "To come back with a win again, it's a great feeling and a clinical performance. You want individuals to step up. The first Test was good, and it was a clinical performance here. We discussed the performance and the opposition played out a good draw. The bowlers tried all their best, but the Kiwi batsmen stuck it out really well in Kanpur. Here there was more bounce and the fast bowlers got assistance as well, so it gave us a better chance to win the Test match. The mindset is the same to take Indian cricket forward, even with the new management. It's important to keep the standards of Indian cricket and make sure it's always growing. " ALSO READ | Virat Kohli opines on Rahul Dravid-led support staff taking over from Shastri & Co. after NZ series win Dravid, on the other hand, told the broadcasters, "Good to finish the Test series on a winning note, came very close in Kanpur, but couldn't take that last wicket. Credit to the team, they have pulled themselves back from tough situations, and were a bit disappointed at not finishing it off in Kanpur. Good to see the boys step up and take their opportunities, we were missing a few seniors, but the youngsters have taken their chances." India will now shift their focus to the three Tests versus South Africa in the African nation, from December 26, whereas Kane Williamson & Co. will host the Bangla Tigers, later this month, for a two-match Test series.

Virat Kohli-led India regain No. 1 spot in ICC Test rankings after series win vs New Zealand

International Tennis Federation president David Haggerty said Sunday that his organisation will not boycott China over the&nbsp;Peng&nbsp;Shuai affair as "we don't want to punish a billion people".

The WTA, which controls the women's game, last week suspended all tournaments in China amid what its chairman called "serious doubts" about the safety of Chinese player&nbsp;Peng, who accused a top Communist Party leader of sexual assault.

WTA chair and CEO Steve Simon said the move -- which could cost the WTA hundreds of millions of dollars&nbsp;had the "full support" of the tour's board of directors.

However, the ATP, which governs men's tennis, has refused to follow the WTA's example.

Now the ITF, the overall ruling body of tennis, has also rejected such a move.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/us-supports-wta-for-call-to-suspend-tournaments-in-china-over-peng-shuai-concerns-434070">U.S. supports WTA for call to suspend tournaments in China over Peng Shuai concerns</a>

"As the governing body of tennis, we stand in support of all women's rights," Haggerty told the BBC.

"The allegations (of&nbsp;Peng) need to be looked into, and we will continue to work behind the scenes and directly to bring this to resolution.

"But you have to remember that the ITF is the governing body of the sport worldwide, and one of the things that we are responsible for is grassroots development.

"We don't want to punish a billion people, so we will continue to run our junior events in the country and our senior events that are there for the time being."

Peng, a 35-year-old Wimbledon and French Open doubles champion, has alleged that former Chinese vice-premier Zhang Gaoli, now in his 70s, forced her into sex during a years-long on-and-off relationship.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/peng-shuai-sexual-assault-row-wta-announces-immediate-suspension-of-all-tournaments-in-china-433406">Peng Shuai sexual assault row: WTA announces immediate suspension of all tournaments in China</a>

The WTA's stance has been widely supported by some of the sport's biggest names.

Men's world number one and 20-time Grand Slam title winner Novak Djokovic called the suspension of tournaments "very bold and very courageous".

Billie Jean King, a 12-time Grand Slam singles winner and leading voice for women's rights, tweeted that the WTA was "on the right side of history."

International Tennis Federation president David Haggerty said Sunday that his organisation will not boycott China over the Peng Shuai affair as "we don't want to punish a billion people".

International Tennis Federation president David Haggerty said Sunday that his organisation will not boycott China over the Peng Shuai affair as "we don't want to punish a billion people". The WTA, which controls the women's game, last week suspended all tournaments in China amid what its chairman called "serious doubts" about the safety of Chinese player Peng, who accused a top Communist Party leader of sexual assault. WTA chair and CEO Steve Simon said the move -- which could cost the WTA hundreds of millions of dollars had the "full support" of the tour's board of directors. However, the ATP, which governs men's tennis, has refused to follow the WTA's example. Now the ITF, the overall ruling body of tennis, has also rejected such a move. ALSO READ: U.S. supports WTA for call to suspend tournaments in China over Peng Shuai concerns "As the governing body of tennis, we stand in support of all women's rights," Haggerty told the BBC. "The allegations (of Peng) need to be looked into, and we will continue to work behind the scenes and directly to bring this to resolution. "But you have to remember that the ITF is the governing body of the sport worldwide, and one of the things that we are responsible for is grassroots development. "We don't want to punish a billion people, so we will continue to run our junior events in the country and our senior events that are there for the time being." Peng, a 35-year-old Wimbledon and French Open doubles champion, has alleged that former Chinese vice-premier Zhang Gaoli, now in his 70s, forced her into sex during a years-long on-and-off relationship. ALSO READ | Peng Shuai sexual assault row: WTA announces immediate suspension of all tournaments in China The WTA's stance has been widely supported by some of the sport's biggest names. Men's world number one and 20-time Grand Slam title winner Novak Djokovic called the suspension of tournaments "very bold and very courageous". Billie Jean King, a 12-time Grand Slam singles winner and leading voice for women's rights, tweeted that the WTA was "on the right side of history."

'We don't want to punish a billion people', says Int'l Tennis Federation chief amid call for China boycott

India took less than a session on Day 4 to wrap up proceedings and thrash New Zealand by 372 runs in the second and final Test at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai on Monday morning (December 6). Setting up a daunting 540-run target, India had claimed five Kiwi wickets and bundled them out for a paltry 167 early this morning to win the series 1-0.&nbsp;

It was a dominating performance from Team India, who were in a spot of bother at 80 for 3 in the first innings but recovered in style and hammered the Black Caps as India won their first-ever Test series in the Rahul Dravid-era.

Opting to bat first, India rode on Mayank Agarwal's 150 to post 325 all-out in the first essay. Ajaz Patel became the third bowler to claim ten wickets in an innings in the purest format but NZ fell like nine pins against India's spin trio -- Jayant Yadav, R Ashwin and Axar Patel -- to be bundled out for&nbsp;62 in their first innings. In reply, India declared at 276/7 courtesy vital knocks from Mayank, Axar, Virat Kohli, Shubman Gill and Cheteshwar Pujara. In reply, the NZ batting line-up's struggles continued as they failed to pose any fight.

After the end of the two Tests between India and current Test&nbsp;champions NZ, here's the updated points table of the ongoing second cycle of the WTC:

<img alt="WTC Points Table" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e7a273f1-e3b6-46c1-9b5f-0552f50aca94" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Screenshot_2021-12-06-10-33-08-02.jpg" />

(Photo: Screen grab)

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-opines-on-rahul-dravid-led-support-staff-taking-over-from-shastri-co-after-nz-series-win-434487">Virat Kohli opines on Rahul Dravid-led support staff taking over from Shastri &amp; Co. after NZ series win</a>

Kohli&nbsp;opined at the post-match presentation, "To come back with a win again, it's a great feeling and a clinical performance. You want individuals to step up. The first Test was good, and it was a clinical performance here. We discussed the performance and the opposition played out a good draw. The bowlers tried all their best, but the Kiwi batsmen stuck it out really well in Kanpur. Here there was more bounce and the fast bowlers got assistance as well, so it gave us a better chance to win the Test match. The mindset is the same to take Indian cricket forward, even with the new management. It's important to keep the standards of Indian cricket and make sure it's always growing. "

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-new-zealand-2nd-test-virat-kohli-and-co-beat-kiwis-by-372-runs-to-win-test-series-1-0-434467">India vs New Zealand, 2nd Test: Virat Kohli and Co beat Kiwis by 372 runs to win test series 1-0</a>

Dravid, on the other hand, told the broadcasters, "Good to finish the Test series on a winning note, came very close in Kanpur, but couldn't take that last wicket. Credit to the team, they have pulled themselves back from tough situations, and were a bit disappointed at not finishing it off in Kanpur. Good to see the boys step up and take their opportunities, we were missing a few seniors, but the youngsters have taken their chances."

India will now travel to South Africa for three Tests whereas New Zealand will host Bangladesh in two-match Test series.

India took less than a session on Day 4 to wrap up proceedings and thrash New Zealand by 372 runs in the second and final Test at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai on Monday morning (December 6).

India took less than a session on Day 4 to wrap up proceedings and thrash New Zealand by 372 runs in the second and final Test at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai on Monday morning (December 6). Setting up a daunting 540-run target, India had claimed five Kiwi wickets and bundled them out for a paltry 167 early this morning to win the series 1-0. It was a dominating performance from Team India, who were in a spot of bother at 80 for 3 in the first innings but recovered in style and hammered the Black Caps as India won their first-ever Test series in the Rahul Dravid-era. Opting to bat first, India rode on Mayank Agarwal's 150 to post 325 all-out in the first essay. Ajaz Patel became the third bowler to claim ten wickets in an innings in the purest format but NZ fell like nine pins against India's spin trio -- Jayant Yadav, R Ashwin and Axar Patel -- to be bundled out for 62 in their first innings. In reply, India declared at 276/7 courtesy vital knocks from Mayank, Axar, Virat Kohli, Shubman Gill and Cheteshwar Pujara. In reply, the NZ batting line-up's struggles continued as they failed to pose any fight. After the end of the two Tests between India and current Test champions NZ, here's the updated points table of the ongoing second cycle of the WTC: (Photo: Screen grab) ALSO READ | Virat Kohli opines on Rahul Dravid-led support staff taking over from Shastri & Co. after NZ series win Kohli opined at the post-match presentation, "To come back with a win again, it's a great feeling and a clinical performance. You want individuals to step up. The first Test was good, and it was a clinical performance here. We discussed the performance and the opposition played out a good draw. The bowlers tried all their best, but the Kiwi batsmen stuck it out really well in Kanpur. Here there was more bounce and the fast bowlers got assistance as well, so it gave us a better chance to win the Test match. The mindset is the same to take Indian cricket forward, even with the new management. It's important to keep the standards of Indian cricket and make sure it's always growing. " ALSO READ | India vs New Zealand, 2nd Test: Virat Kohli and Co beat Kiwis by 372 runs to win test series 1-0 Dravid, on the other hand, told the broadcasters, "Good to finish the Test series on a winning note, came very close in Kanpur, but couldn't take that last wicket. Credit to the team, they have pulled themselves back from tough situations, and were a bit disappointed at not finishing it off in Kanpur. Good to see the boys step up and take their opportunities, we were missing a few seniors, but the youngsters have taken their chances." India will now travel to South Africa for three Tests whereas New Zealand will host Bangladesh in two-match Test series.

Updated World Test Championship points table after India vs New Zealand series

Team India beat New Zealand in the second and final Test at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai on Monday morning (December 6). Resuming Day 4 with Virat Kohli &amp; Co. requiring 5 more wickets to win the series, the home side didn't waste any time and wrapped up the proceedings within a session to bundle out the Kiwis for 167, in pursuit of 540, and win the Mumbai Test by 372 runs.

Opting to bat first, India rode on Mayank Agarwal's 150 to post 325 all-out. In reply, NZ fell like nine pins for 62 and gave a whopping first-innings lead to the hosts. India then declared their second innings for 276-7 and dismissed the Black Caps for 167 to win the series and regain the top spot in the ICC Test Rankings.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-led-india-regain-no-1-spot-in-icc-test-rankings-after-series-win-vs-new-zealand-434531">Virat Kohli-led India regain No. 1 spot in ICC Test rankings after series win vs New Zealand</a>

In this way, India also went onto win their 14th successive series in the purest format at home.&nbsp;India's last Test series loss as hosts came versus England in late 2012 (under MS Dhoni)

Since then, they have won 14 successive series at home: 
4-0 vs Australia in BG Trophy 2012/13 
2-0 vs West Indies in late 2013 
3-0 vs South Africa in late 2015 
3-0 vs New Zealand in 2016 
4-0 vs England in late 2016 
1-0 vs Bangladesh in early 2017 
2-1 vs Australia in BG Trophy 2016/17 
1-0 vs Sri Lanka in late 2017 
1-0 vs Afghanistan in mid-2018 
2-0 vs West Indies in late 2018 
3-0 vs South Africa in 2019 
2-0 vs Bangladesh in late 2019 
3-1 vs England in early 2021 
1-0 vs New Zealand in 2021*

In the WTC points table, India are now at the third position with 58.33 win percentage. New Zealand, on the other hand, find themselves at the sixth spot.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/updated-world-test-championship-points-table-after-india-vs-new-zealand-series-434499">Updated World Test Championship points table after India vs New Zealand series</a>

Kohli told the broadcasters at the post-match presentation, "To come back with a win again, it's a great feeling and a clinical performance. You want individuals to step up. The first Test was good, and it was a clinical performance here. We discussed the performance and the opposition played out a good draw. The bowlers tried all their best, but the Kiwi batsmen stuck it out really well in Kanpur. Here there was more bounce and the fast bowlers got assistance as well, so it gave us a better chance to win the Test match. The mindset is the same to take Indian cricket forward, even with the new management. It's important to keep the standards of Indian cricket and make sure it's always growing. "

India will now head to South Africa for a three-match Test series, starting from December 26 in Centurion. It will be followed by three ODIs whereas the T20Is will be held later in 2022.

Team India beat New Zealand in the second and final Test at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai on Monday morning (December 6). Resuming Day 4 with Virat Kohli & Co. requiring 5 more wickets to win the series, the home side didn't waste any time and wrapped up the proceedings within a session to bundle out the Kiwis for 167, in pursuit of 540, and win the Mumbai Test by 372 runs.

Team India beat New Zealand in the second and final Test at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai on Monday morning (December 6). Resuming Day 4 with Virat Kohli & Co. requiring 5 more wickets to win the series, the home side didn't waste any time and wrapped up the proceedings within a session to bundle out the Kiwis for 167, in pursuit of 540, and win the Mumbai Test by 372 runs. Opting to bat first, India rode on Mayank Agarwal's 150 to post 325 all-out. In reply, NZ fell like nine pins for 62 and gave a whopping first-innings lead to the hosts. India then declared their second innings for 276-7 and dismissed the Black Caps for 167 to win the series and regain the top spot in the ICC Test Rankings. ALSO READ | Virat Kohli-led India regain No. 1 spot in ICC Test rankings after series win vs New Zealand In this way, India also went onto win their 14th successive series in the purest format at home. India's last Test series loss as hosts came versus England in late 2012 (under MS Dhoni) Since then, they have won 14 successive series at home: 4-0 vs Australia in BG Trophy 2012/13 2-0 vs West Indies in late 2013 3-0 vs South Africa in late 2015 3-0 vs New Zealand in 2016 4-0 vs England in late 2016 1-0 vs Bangladesh in early 2017 2-1 vs Australia in BG Trophy 2016/17 1-0 vs Sri Lanka in late 2017 1-0 vs Afghanistan in mid-2018 2-0 vs West Indies in late 2018 3-0 vs South Africa in 2019 2-0 vs Bangladesh in late 2019 3-1 vs England in early 2021 1-0 vs New Zealand in 2021* In the WTC points table, India are now at the third position with 58.33 win percentage. New Zealand, on the other hand, find themselves at the sixth spot. ALSO READ | Updated World Test Championship points table after India vs New Zealand series Kohli told the broadcasters at the post-match presentation, "To come back with a win again, it's a great feeling and a clinical performance. You want individuals to step up. The first Test was good, and it was a clinical performance here. We discussed the performance and the opposition played out a good draw. The bowlers tried all their best, but the Kiwi batsmen stuck it out really well in Kanpur. Here there was more bounce and the fast bowlers got assistance as well, so it gave us a better chance to win the Test match. The mindset is the same to take Indian cricket forward, even with the new management. It's important to keep the standards of Indian cricket and make sure it's always growing. " India will now head to South Africa for a three-match Test series, starting from December 26 in Centurion. It will be followed by three ODIs whereas the T20Is will be held later in 2022.

Virat Kohli's India bag 14th consecutive Test series on home soil after 1-0 scoreline vs NZ

Lewis Hamilton won a crazy, twice-halted Saudi Arabian Grand Prix for Mercedes on Sunday to go level on points with Red Bull rival Max Verstappen and set up a winner-takes-all title showdown.

On a chaotic night in Jeddah, the first race in the Gulf kingdom took almost as many twists and turns as an already astonishing and enthralling rollercoaster season&nbsp;and also left a bitter aftertaste.

There were crashes and collisions, safety cars, red flags, and claims of dirty driving after seven-times world champion Hamilton hit the back of Verstappen's suddenly slowing car on the super-fast Corniche street circuit.

Extraordinary, at times angry, radio exchanges between the race director Michael Masi and the top two teams filled the airwaves.

With a bonus point for fastest lap, Hamilton moved alongside Verstappen at the top of the standings with 369.5 points after 21 races.

Verstappen, who finished second with Valtteri Bottas third for Mercedes, leads 9-8 on wins, however&nbsp;meaning that the Dutch 24-year-old will be champion if neither he nor Hamilton scores another point.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/f2-racers-enzo-fittipaldi-and-theo-pourchaire-taken-to-hospital-after-start-line-crash-video-434404">F2 racers Enzo Fittipaldi and Theo Pourchaire taken to hospital after start line crash: Video</a>

Mercedes extended their lead in the constructors'&nbsp;championship to 28 points and a record eighth successive title looking likely.

The final race is in Abu Dhabi next weekend.

BRAKE-TEST

Hamilton had started on pole but twice lost out to Verstappen, who began the day eight points ahead, at the standing re-starts.

The Dutch driver was ordered to hand back the lead, for going wide as Hamilton tried to pass on lap 37, but when he slowed Hamilton ran into the back of him.

"He just brake-tested me. I’ve just hit him, man, my wing’s broken," exclaimed the Briton. "That was dangerous driving dude."

Stewards summoned both drivers after the race and found Verstappen predominantly to blame, handing him a 10 second penalty that changed nothing.

The Dutchman did hand back the lead on lap 42 but took it back immediately.

Stewards then gave him a five-second time penalty for leaving the track and gaining a lasting advantage but Verstappen again let Hamilton through.

"We didn’t need to do that, Max," said his race engineer.

Mercedes told Masi they had not been given sufficient time to inform Hamilton that Verstappen would give back the place, and the Red Bull driver was also furious.

"What happened today is unbelievable and this sport is more about penalties than racing. For me, this is not Formula One," he fumed after being told he had been voted 'Driver of the Day'.

RED FLAGS

The red flags first came out on lap 14 after a safety car period triggered by Mick Schumacher crashing his Haas.

That played into the hands of Verstappen, who stayed out while Hamilton pitted from the lead for fresh tyres to take advantage of the safety car deployment.

The advantage disappeared, however, when the standing re-start triggered more chaos.

Hamilton made the better getaway but Verstappen went off track to keep the lead, with Alpine's Esteban Ocon -- who finished fourth after being pipped by Bottas at the end&nbsp;forcing his way into second place.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/saudi-arabian-gp-lewis-hamilton-on-pole-max-verstappen-hits-wall-434214">Saudi Arabian GP: Lewis Hamilton on pole, Max Verstappen hits wall</a>

"I had to avoid a collision there," exclaimed Hamilton. "He (Verstappen) cut across the whole kerb. He just overtook me outside the white line."

The race was halted a lap later when Haas's Russian rookie Nikita Mazepin and Williams`s George Russell collided while

Verstappen's teammate Sergio Perez was tagged by Ferrari's Charles Leclerc and spun.

Masi offered Red Bull the "opportunity" to line up on the grid for the third standing start behind Hamilton, with Ocon in the lead.

"You'd be back behind Lewis," said the Australian. "That is my offer."

"We accept that," came the reply from Red Bull's team manager Jonathan Wheatley.

Verstappen seized the lead again, with Hamilton passing Ocon, and the battle was on&nbsp;punctuated by more virtual safety car periods.

"Get in there Lewis!" Hamilton's race engineer shouted at the chequered flag. "That has got to be the craziest race I can remember, the cool heads won that out."

Australian Daniel Ricciardo finished fifth for McLaren, ahead of AlphaTauri`s Pierre Gasly and Leclerc. Ferrari`s Carlos Sainz was eighth, with Antonio Giovinazzi ninth for Alfa Romeo and Lando Norris 10th for McLaren.

Lewis Hamilton won a crazy, twice-halted Saudi Arabian Grand Prix for Mercedes on Sunday to go level on points with Red Bull rival Max Verstappen and set up a winner-takes-all title showdown.

Lewis Hamilton won a crazy, twice-halted Saudi Arabian Grand Prix for Mercedes on Sunday to go level on points with Red Bull rival Max Verstappen and set up a winner-takes-all title showdown. On a chaotic night in Jeddah, the first race in the Gulf kingdom took almost as many twists and turns as an already astonishing and enthralling rollercoaster season and also left a bitter aftertaste. There were crashes and collisions, safety cars, red flags, and claims of dirty driving after seven-times world champion Hamilton hit the back of Verstappen's suddenly slowing car on the super-fast Corniche street circuit. Extraordinary, at times angry, radio exchanges between the race director Michael Masi and the top two teams filled the airwaves. With a bonus point for fastest lap, Hamilton moved alongside Verstappen at the top of the standings with 369.5 points after 21 races. Verstappen, who finished second with Valtteri Bottas third for Mercedes, leads 9-8 on wins, however meaning that the Dutch 24-year-old will be champion if neither he nor Hamilton scores another point. ALSO READ: F2 racers Enzo Fittipaldi and Theo Pourchaire taken to hospital after start line crash: Video Mercedes extended their lead in the constructors' championship to 28 points and a record eighth successive title looking likely. The final race is in Abu Dhabi next weekend. BRAKE-TEST Hamilton had started on pole but twice lost out to Verstappen, who began the day eight points ahead, at the standing re-starts. The Dutch driver was ordered to hand back the lead, for going wide as Hamilton tried to pass on lap 37, but when he slowed Hamilton ran into the back of him. "He just brake-tested me. I’ve just hit him, man, my wing’s broken," exclaimed the Briton. "That was dangerous driving dude." Stewards summoned both drivers after the race and found Verstappen predominantly to blame, handing him a 10 second penalty that changed nothing. The Dutchman did hand back the lead on lap 42 but took it back immediately. Stewards then gave him a five-second time penalty for leaving the track and gaining a lasting advantage but Verstappen again let Hamilton through. "We didn’t need to do that, Max," said his race engineer. Mercedes told Masi they had not been given sufficient time to inform Hamilton that Verstappen would give back the place, and the Red Bull driver was also furious. "What happened today is unbelievable and this sport is more about penalties than racing. For me, this is not Formula One," he fumed after being told he had been voted 'Driver of the Day'. RED FLAGS The red flags first came out on lap 14 after a safety car period triggered by Mick Schumacher crashing his Haas. That played into the hands of Verstappen, who stayed out while Hamilton pitted from the lead for fresh tyres to take advantage of the safety car deployment. The advantage disappeared, however, when the standing re-start triggered more chaos. Hamilton made the better getaway but Verstappen went off track to keep the lead, with Alpine's Esteban Ocon -- who finished fourth after being pipped by Bottas at the end forcing his way into second place. ALSO READ: Saudi Arabian GP: Lewis Hamilton on pole, Max Verstappen hits wall "I had to avoid a collision there," exclaimed Hamilton. "He (Verstappen) cut across the whole kerb. He just overtook me outside the white line." The race was halted a lap later when Haas's Russian rookie Nikita Mazepin and Williams`s George Russell collided while Verstappen's teammate Sergio Perez was tagged by Ferrari's Charles Leclerc and spun. Masi offered Red Bull the "opportunity" to line up on the grid for the third standing start behind Hamilton, with Ocon in the lead. "You'd be back behind Lewis," said the Australian. "That is my offer." "We accept that," came the reply from Red Bull's team manager Jonathan Wheatley. Verstappen seized the lead again, with Hamilton passing Ocon, and the battle was on punctuated by more virtual safety car periods. "Get in there Lewis!" Hamilton's race engineer shouted at the chequered flag. "That has got to be the craziest race I can remember, the cool heads won that out." Australian Daniel Ricciardo finished fifth for McLaren, ahead of AlphaTauri`s Pierre Gasly and Leclerc. Ferrari`s Carlos Sainz was eighth, with Antonio Giovinazzi ninth for Alfa Romeo and Lando Norris 10th for McLaren.

Lewis Hamilton wins Saudi Grand Prix, comes at par with Max Verstappen

Defender Ezri Konsa scored twice as Aston Villa came back from a goal down to beat Leicester City 2-1, rising above them to 10th spot in the Premier League table on goal difference on Sunday after a pulsating encounter.

Harvey Barnes squeezed the ball through Konsa's legs to open the scoring in the 14th minute, but Konsa got the last touch on Emiliano Buendia's goal-bound header to put his side level again three minutes later.

Villa thought they had taken the lead in first-half stoppage time when Jacob Ramsey fired home in a tussle with Kasper

Schmeichel, but the goal was disallowed after a VAR review when the keeper was found to have been in control of the ball.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-spurs-climb-to-fifth-with-comfortable-3-0-win-over-norwich-city-434394">Premier League: Spurs climb to fifth with comfortable 3-0 win over Norwich City</a>

Undeterred, Konsa got the lead nine minutes into the second half as he headed home John McGinn`s corner from a tight angle at the back post.

The goal was the 10th that Leicester have conceded from a set piece this season, excluding penalties.

McGinn's pinpoint set pieces and incisive passing created plenty of opportunities in the second half for Villa, with Ollie Watkins denied by Schmeichel in the 67th minute and Jacob Ramsey spurning another chance four minutes later.

Jamie Vardy came off the bench to give Leicester`s attack a shot in the arm but it was Harvey Barnes who came closest to getting an equaliser for the visitors, forcing a brilliant save from Emiliano Martinez in the 75th minute.

Schmeichel's goalkeeping kept Leicester in the game and he also made a late foray up the field for a corner in second-half stoppage time, but Villa managed to hang on to give new boss Steven Gerrard his third win in four league games.

Villa coach Gerrard revealed that his efforts to fire up his side at halftime paid dividends.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-fred-gives-ralf-rangnick-reign-at-manchester-united-lift-off-1-0-vs-crystal-palace-434384">Premier League: Fred gives Ralf Rangnick reign at Manchester United lift off 1-0 vs Crystal Palace</a>

"I thought Leicester started really well. We were too passive. When we made passes there were loads of sloppy turnovers. We gave the players some home truths at half-time. The reaction was exactly what we wanted," he told Sky Sports.

"To take nine points from 12 is a big return from the players. They deserve a load of credit, but there`s still work to do. Some of them still need to improve," he added.

Next up for Gerrard is a return to Anfield, but it will not be a sentimental journey for the 41-year-old.

"I just want to go there and win. We go there with confidence and belief, we just want to make it as difficult as we can," he said.

Defender Ezri Konsa scored twice as Aston Villa came back from a goal down to beat Leicester City 2-1, rising above them to 10th spot in the Premier League table on goal difference on Sunday after a pulsating encounter.

Defender Ezri Konsa scored twice as Aston Villa came back from a goal down to beat Leicester City 2-1, rising above them to 10th spot in the Premier League table on goal difference on Sunday after a pulsating encounter. Harvey Barnes squeezed the ball through Konsa's legs to open the scoring in the 14th minute, but Konsa got the last touch on Emiliano Buendia's goal-bound header to put his side level again three minutes later. Villa thought they had taken the lead in first-half stoppage time when Jacob Ramsey fired home in a tussle with Kasper Schmeichel, but the goal was disallowed after a VAR review when the keeper was found to have been in control of the ball. ALSO READ: Premier League: Spurs climb to fifth with comfortable 3-0 win over Norwich City Undeterred, Konsa got the lead nine minutes into the second half as he headed home John McGinn`s corner from a tight angle at the back post. The goal was the 10th that Leicester have conceded from a set piece this season, excluding penalties. McGinn's pinpoint set pieces and incisive passing created plenty of opportunities in the second half for Villa, with Ollie Watkins denied by Schmeichel in the 67th minute and Jacob Ramsey spurning another chance four minutes later. Jamie Vardy came off the bench to give Leicester`s attack a shot in the arm but it was Harvey Barnes who came closest to getting an equaliser for the visitors, forcing a brilliant save from Emiliano Martinez in the 75th minute. Schmeichel's goalkeeping kept Leicester in the game and he also made a late foray up the field for a corner in second-half stoppage time, but Villa managed to hang on to give new boss Steven Gerrard his third win in four league games. Villa coach Gerrard revealed that his efforts to fire up his side at halftime paid dividends. ALSO READ: Premier League: Fred gives Ralf Rangnick reign at Manchester United lift off 1-0 vs Crystal Palace "I thought Leicester started really well. We were too passive. When we made passes there were loads of sloppy turnovers. We gave the players some home truths at half-time. The reaction was exactly what we wanted," he told Sky Sports. "To take nine points from 12 is a big return from the players. They deserve a load of credit, but there`s still work to do. Some of them still need to improve," he added. Next up for Gerrard is a return to Anfield, but it will not be a sentimental journey for the 41-year-old. "I just want to go there and win. We go there with confidence and belief, we just want to make it as difficult as we can," he said.

Premier League: Ezri Konsa strikes twice as Aston Villa come back to beat Leicester 2-1

Not often does one get to make a living out of his, or her, passion. Moreover, not many manage to don, and perform, various roles while following their passion at a professional level.

Not often does one get to make a living out of his, or her, passion. Moreover, not many manage to don, and perform, various roles while following their passion at a professional level. Coach Sanjay Singh has done it all. From starting as a player to turning into a physio and honing his skills as an international coach, Mr. Singh has ticked several boxes while staying relevant in the field of tennis for years. Above all, his childlike passion remains infectious. Such has been his success story that Mr. Singh has taken Indian tennis into uncharted territory. After all, how often do we see Indian coaches being active in WTA or ATP tours? Also, have we often heard about Indian coaches for elite non-Indian tennis players? The answer to both the queries would have been in the negative if not for Sanjay Singh. However, Mr. Singh is one such personality who has single-handedly kept Indian tennis' flag high with his presence as a coach of Brazilian youngster Luisa Stefani and American star Hayley Carter. ALSO READ | Peng Shuai row: China hits back at WTA for 'politicising sport' after it suspends all tournaments in country In an exclusive interaction with WION news' Aditya Sahay, Sanjay Singh dwelled upon many aspects of his career, the several role transformations, satisfying journey with Luisa and Carter so far, the camaraderie with Indian tennis great Leander Paes and the state of affairs with regard to tennis in the cricket-crazy country. EXCERPTS: Like mentioned, not often do we see Indian coaches for foreign players. You have changed it all in many ways. How did it all happen? (Laughs) Well, I was a player initially. I was playing in Orissa Open. It so happened that I was playing in one court and the other player had a cramp. Because I used to work as the helper, I was asked to chip in and help. I assisted him and came back to play my match. At that time, I thought we don't have focus on working on players' fitness in India. So, I thought to take this up. That's where I started as a physiotherapist. During Davis Cup tie, Ramesh Krishnan's trainer didn't turn up, hence, they called me and I worked with him. When his trainer came back, Leander asked me to join him. There is no end to learning. You learn from small kids also. In India, they think they know everything. They don't respect others. Among Indian players, only few are travelling abroad for training and all. You need to have awareness and the learning ability within you. Always!. In one of your interviews, you rightly pointed out how India is a country where people like to stay in their own preconceived views or opinions. Many labelled you as 'one who gives massages to Leander Paes'. Was it a conscious effort to revamp your image or you never paid heed to all such claims? Before I started off, I was a tennis player. Since there was no body looking after the players' body, their demands off the court and their suffering, I started working on this aspect. With Leander, I used to work with him. But since my knowledge of tennis was always there, he kept me involved asking 'Dadda (brother), what to do, did I mess it up?' I never had to tell people what I was doing with Leander. We both knew where we were heading and that's what mattered. End of the day 'let the racket talk'. It (criticism) never bothered me as it was all behind my back. Hence, many talented players' careers are now over. They stop working on themselves after a bit of initial success. It is sad. Many didn't want to learn that often. Leander always tries to grasp more in every scenario. Unlike in India, I get much more respect in Florida. For our Prime Minister, they still call him as 'the chaiwala (tea-seller)' but one doesn't see, or acknowledge, his journey and development. We need to respect each other and see one's growth. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Sanjay singh (@coachsanjaysingh) × Coming to Luisa Stefani and Hayley Carter! Both are different individuals and, hence, have different styles, strengths and weaknesses. While Stefani is the first Brazilian woman to feature in the WTA's Top 10 and occupies the ninth rank in doubles, American star Carter has also come a long way to sit at the 25th spot in doubles rankings. How did your association begin with the duo? What defines them of both? Can you highlight few areas where they have shown vast improvement under your watchful eyes? When I used to travel with Leander, my base was in Florida. During my off-season, I used to train at Saddlebrook Tennis Academy. Back then, I was asked if I can train this young girl called Luisa Stefani. I saw her and was floored by her talent and skills. I was like 'wow, this girl has fire, she is fast and comes to the net'. Since she wanted to be pro, she had to change her visa. She couldn't get the visa initially and, thus, went back. In 2018, she returned. Then we started playing and practicing. There was one month of intense training. Her parents then asked me to travel with her. So I started in April 2019. In May, she won the Italy Championship in England. Thus, she had a chance to enter the Wimbledon but she was alternate, hence, couldn't get in. The same fate followed in the US Open. On the other hand, Hayley was looking for a partner. Luisa asked me and I told her play with Hayley. They won the Uzbekistan Championship (i.e. Tashkent Open) in 2019 and then they lost the third round in Australian Open 2020. Luisa has a big serve whereas Hayley attacked the net more often. Only drawback was the overhead shot. That was the area we were lagging behind. But we started combining well and then after that Hayley got hurt in Wimbledon this year. Then we got Gabriela Dabrowski with Luisa. We reached the final of Cincinnati 2021 and semi-final of US Open. During the pandemic, we weren't training. We used to be in the bubble. We were getting tested. RT-PCR tests and being confined inside was the new normal. Mentally it was very tough and, hence, many players are now burning out. The only time they opened up little bit was during the Cincinnati (Open). Life was tough. We couldn't go out. One had to resort to Uber Eats. We used to have a table downstairs in the lobby where the food was kept by the Uber guy and then we had to take it. It was all about dealing with the bio bubble life and surviving (sighs). View this post on Instagram A post shared by Sanjay singh (@coachsanjaysingh) × The world of sports knows a lot about Leander Paes. He remains the face of Indian tennis. Share your equation with him. How did it start and where is it at present? How has he helped in your transformation from being a physio to coach? See, it was during the Davis Cup tie in New Delhi when I met him. I used to work in the hotel as a helper supervisor. In 1996, it was tough for me to manage work and my tennis stuff. So I left my job and came on board with Paes. He wanted me to learn everything because he never trusted anyone else. Let me tell you, I used to travel with a stringing machine as he was playing so much. Everyday 7-8 rackets were used. But, Leander has always encouraged me. He used to ask me to interact with people, observe others and share inputs. He always believed in me. I used to be his brother, buddy and everything. He says he wants to retire in Wimbledon 2022. Let's see. He tells me 'Dadda, you will get me ready for Wimbledon'. We both call each other 'Dadda'. That sums up the whole equation, doesn't it? (smiles). View this post on Instagram A post shared by Sanjay singh (@coachsanjaysingh) × ALSO READ | EXCLUSIVE | Dark clouds of struggle have a 'silver' lining for Mirabai Chanu's coach Vijay Sharma Lastly, thoughts on tennis in India. From Paes, Mahesh Bhupathi, Rohan Bopanna, Sania Mirza to Sumit Nagal, the sport has come a long way in the country but there obviously remains huge scope for improvement and participation among the youth. Your views regarding the status of the game in the country at present? In India, they should have a team who knows about the game firstly. Mr Sundar Iyer (Secretary of the Maharashtra Lawn Tennis Association (MSLTA) and Manager of Indian Davis Cup Team) is doing great in getting tournaments in India. He's doing very well. See, if youngsters play more tournaments, sponsor them. Work for the players. Give them their due by supplying resources and everything that matters to build their careers. Even a peon is getting an India jacket. Give it to people who need it more. They need to sponsor juniors so that they can play tournaments outside India. It helps in building their games at a young level. For the unversed, in Brazil there are 7-8 juniors playing on tours. How many in India? Hardly! For players, they should learn from Leander. If they do good in one game, they get complacent. Their collars go up after one good win. They don't know next week is a new week. Nowadays, we tend to go for shortcuts. Leander was never like this. Now I'm in states, when I see things there, players never have to worry about tennis court. Here, staff ask for INR 100 as court fees. Wherever you play, they will be charging you. How can a youngster manage all this, who is just trying to come up the ranks? Unless and until they change the entire system, nothing will happen. Hence, many players move abroad to train and manage themselves. Here for everything, they will charge and still not provide all facilities. They've to change a lot. We have to be player-friendly and not administration-friendly. India is such a great country. We have everything. But we face so many problems unnecessarily. Base has to change. Believe me, we have such great potential and that we can do wonders. But youngsters don't get support. In abroad, players get full support. Outside India, the association is taking care of players and coaches. In Brazil, association are paying for trainers who are travelling with players. Unimaginable. It cannot even be expected in India. Even such thinking is missing in the country. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Sanjay singh (@coachsanjaysingh) × Luisa won the first medal for Brazil (bronze in women's doubles in Tokyo 2020). Their government called and felicitated me. As a foreign coach, they are calling and honouring me. This doesn't happen in India. The coach can give you the idea, but who will bring you to the court -- a trainer. If you have a Ferrari but the engine doesn't work properly, it is as good as a showpiece. Hence, a lot needs to change. Be more player-friendly, focus on coaches and trainers, give them their due and build youngsters' careers from the junior level itself.

EXCLUSIVE | Who is Sanjay Singh? A close ally of Leander Paes & guiding light of Luisa Stefani-Hayley Carter

Virat Kohli-led Team India have locked horns with New Zealand in the second and final Test at the iconic Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai. While Kohli has returned back to action after the T20 World Cup, the home side are without the likes of vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane, Ravindra Jadeja and speedster Ishant Sharma for the series finale.&nbsp;

After a delayed start due to wet outfield, Captain Kohli won the toss and elected to bat first. He opined on Rahane, Ishant and Jadeja's absence and told the broadcasters, "We're batting first. Looks like a hard wicket and not a lot of grass. With the sun out, it should be the best time to bat. Rahane had a hammie niggle on Day 5, Jadeja has a swollen right forearm, and Ishant has an injury too. We just have to do the basics right like in Kanpur. NZ must be given credit for batting out the overs on Day 5. We can be in positions to capitalize at home if we play well."

With no Rahane, Jadeja and Ishant in the playing XI, India's line-up for the deciding Test is as follows:

<p ng-bind-html="comm[ts].comm" ng-class="get_comm_class(comm[ts]) " ng-hide="comm[ts].geo != null &amp;&amp; comm[ts].geo.length &gt; 0 &amp;&amp; comm[ts].geo.indexOf($root.$GEO.country) == -1" ng-if="comm[ts].evt != 'Plugin:news' &amp;&amp; comm[ts].evt != 'Plugin:video' &amp;&amp; comm[ts].evt != 'Plugin:comments'">India&nbsp;playing XI: Mayank Agarwal, Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli(c), Shreyas Iyer, Wriddhiman Saha(w), Ravichandran Ashwin, Axar Patel, Jayant Yadav, Umesh Yadav, Mohammed Siraj

<p ng-bind-html="comm[ts].comm" ng-class="get_comm_class(comm[ts]) " ng-hide="comm[ts].geo != null &amp;&amp; comm[ts].geo.length &gt; 0 &amp;&amp; comm[ts].geo.indexOf($root.$GEO.country) == -1" ng-if="comm[ts].evt != 'Plugin:news' &amp;&amp; comm[ts].evt != 'Plugin:video' &amp;&amp; comm[ts].evt != 'Plugin:comments'">ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-nz-2nd-test-live-streaming-when-and-where-to-watch-india-vs-new-zealand-match-live-online-433587">IND vs NZ, 2nd Test live streaming: When and where to watch India vs New Zealand match live online?</a>

<p ng-bind-html="comm[ts].comm" ng-class="get_comm_class(comm[ts]) " ng-hide="comm[ts].geo != null &amp;&amp; comm[ts].geo.length &gt; 0 &amp;&amp; comm[ts].geo.indexOf($root.$GEO.country) == -1" ng-if="comm[ts].evt != 'Plugin:news' &amp;&amp; comm[ts].evt != 'Plugin:video' &amp;&amp; comm[ts].evt != 'Plugin:comments'">On the other hand, New Zealand are also without their regular captain Kane Williamson. In his absence, Tom Latham is leading the side in the crunch encounter. At the coin toss, he stated, "We would've had a bat too. It's been under covers for a few days, and so it might do a bit early. Unfortunate for Kane, his elbow is acting up again, but good chance for Mitchell. It might swing with the humidity here, and we will get assistance and given the pitch it will spin too. We did well after losing the toss in Kanpur and hopefully we can make use of the conditions here and pick up some early wickets."

<p ng-bind-html="comm[ts].comm" ng-class="get_comm_class(comm[ts]) " ng-hide="comm[ts].geo != null &amp;&amp; comm[ts].geo.length &gt; 0 &amp;&amp; comm[ts].geo.indexOf($root.$GEO.country) == -1" ng-if="comm[ts].evt != 'Plugin:news' &amp;&amp; comm[ts].evt != 'Plugin:video' &amp;&amp; comm[ts].evt != 'Plugin:comments'">NZ playing XI:&nbsp;Tom Latham(c), Will Young, Daryl Mitchell, Ross Taylor, Henry Nicholls, Tom Blundell(w), Rachin Ravindra, Kyle Jamieson, Tim Southee, William Somerville, Ajaz Patel

<p ng-bind-html="comm[ts].comm" ng-class="get_comm_class(comm[ts]) " ng-hide="comm[ts].geo != null &amp;&amp; comm[ts].geo.length &gt; 0 &amp;&amp; comm[ts].geo.indexOf($root.$GEO.country) == -1" ng-if="comm[ts].evt != 'Plugin:news' &amp;&amp; comm[ts].evt != 'Plugin:video' &amp;&amp; comm[ts].evt != 'Plugin:comments'">ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-nz-2nd-test-virat-kohli-defends-ajinkya-rahane-co-after-hosts-fail-to-go-1-0-up-in-kanpur-433568">IND vs NZ, 2nd Test: Virat Kohli defends Ajinkya Rahane &amp; Co. after hosts fail to go 1-0 up in Kanpur</a>

<p ng-bind-html="comm[ts].comm" ng-class="get_comm_class(comm[ts]) " ng-hide="comm[ts].geo != null &amp;&amp; comm[ts].geo.length &gt; 0 &amp;&amp; comm[ts].geo.indexOf($root.$GEO.country) == -1" ng-if="comm[ts].evt != 'Plugin:news' &amp;&amp; comm[ts].evt != 'Plugin:video' &amp;&amp; comm[ts].evt != 'Plugin:comments'">The two teams have all to play for after the first Test ended in a riveting draw at Green Park, Kanpur. In the series opener, Rahane continued his poor run of form whereas Ishant returned wicketless. However, Jadeja performed well with a crunch 50 and four-wicket haul in the final innings, hence, his absence will be felt by Team India.&nbsp;

Virat Kohli-led Team India have locked horns with New Zealand in the second and final Test at the iconic Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai. While Kohli has returned back to action after the T20 World Cup, the home side are without the likes of vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane, Ravindra Jadeja and speedster Ishant Sharma for the series finale.

Virat Kohli-led Team India have locked horns with New Zealand in the second and final Test at the iconic Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai. While Kohli has returned back to action after the T20 World Cup, the home side are without the likes of vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane, Ravindra Jadeja and speedster Ishant Sharma for the series finale. After a delayed start due to wet outfield, Captain Kohli won the toss and elected to bat first. He opined on Rahane, Ishant and Jadeja's absence and told the broadcasters, "We're batting first. Looks like a hard wicket and not a lot of grass. With the sun out, it should be the best time to bat. Rahane had a hammie niggle on Day 5, Jadeja has a swollen right forearm, and Ishant has an injury too. We just have to do the basics right like in Kanpur. NZ must be given credit for batting out the overs on Day 5. We can be in positions to capitalize at home if we play well." With no Rahane, Jadeja and Ishant in the playing XI, India's line-up for the deciding Test is as follows: India playing XI: Mayank Agarwal, Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli(c), Shreyas Iyer, Wriddhiman Saha(w), Ravichandran Ashwin, Axar Patel, Jayant Yadav, Umesh Yadav, Mohammed Siraj ALSO READ | IND vs NZ, 2nd Test live streaming: When and where to watch India vs New Zealand match live online? On the other hand, New Zealand are also without their regular captain Kane Williamson. In his absence, Tom Latham is leading the side in the crunch encounter. At the coin toss, he stated, "We would've had a bat too. It's been under covers for a few days, and so it might do a bit early. Unfortunate for Kane, his elbow is acting up again, but good chance for Mitchell. It might swing with the humidity here, and we will get assistance and given the pitch it will spin too. We did well after losing the toss in Kanpur and hopefully we can make use of the conditions here and pick up some early wickets." NZ playing XI: Tom Latham(c), Will Young, Daryl Mitchell, Ross Taylor, Henry Nicholls, Tom Blundell(w), Rachin Ravindra, Kyle Jamieson, Tim Southee, William Somerville, Ajaz Patel ALSO READ | IND vs NZ, 2nd Test: Virat Kohli defends Ajinkya Rahane & Co. after hosts fail to go 1-0 up in Kanpur The two teams have all to play for after the first Test ended in a riveting draw at Green Park, Kanpur. In the series opener, Rahane continued his poor run of form whereas Ishant returned wicketless. However, Jadeja performed well with a crunch 50 and four-wicket haul in the final innings, hence, his absence will be felt by Team India.

No Rahane, Jadeja and Ishant Sharma: Here's why Team India are without famed trio in 2nd Test vs NZ

Virat Kohli returned to international cricket after India's T20 World Cup campaign on Friday morning (December 3). The 33-year-old was out of action from the India-New Zealand T20Is and Test series opener, however, took charge of the side for the second and final Test at Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai.

After winning the toss, Kohli came out to bat with India losing two quick wickets after an 80-run opening stand between Mayank Agarwal and Shubman Gill. As No. 3 batter Cheteshwar Pujara departed for a duck, the onus fell on Kohli and Mayank. Nonetheless, the superstar batsman's return to the 22-yard cricket strip turned out to be a nightmare as he fell for a 4-ball duck, his 10th as Indian captain, as he fell to spinner Ajaz Patel.

The dismissal was controversial as it went upstairs and the third umpire took a lot of time before giving the Indian skipper out. While it looked like there was a clear edge, Kohli was given out due to&nbsp;'lack of evidence' that the ball hit the bat first. Hence, he was given out lbw.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-achieves-two-unwanted-records-after-failing-to-open-his-account-on-day-1-of-mumbai-test-433879">Virat Kohli achieves two unwanted records after failing to open his account on Day 1 of Mumbai Test</a>

Many believe Kohli was wrongly given out as the ball hit the bat first and then the pad, ruling out the lbw scenario. Now, former NZ spinner-cum-captain Daniel Vettori opined on his dismissal. "It was fairly obvious that he nicked it. For me, it seems obvious that there was an inside edge although it was close. But for one man to sit there and a make a crucial decision, maybe the match referee could have stepped in,” Vettori said in a conversation with ESPNcricinfo.

On the other hand, former Indian opener Wasim Jaffer stated, "I can understand the on-field umpire making a decision. That can happen. But the third umpire making so many mistakes after seeing so many replays is disappointing. And Virender Sharma did have a very poor first Test and that form continues for him as well."

He&nbsp;also took to his official Twitter account and wrote, "That was bat first in my opinion. And I understand the ‘conclusive evidence’ part. But I think this was an instance where common sense should have prevailed. But as they say, common sense is not so common. Feel for Virat Kohli. #Unlucky #INDvNZ."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-upset-as-controversial-drs-decision-sends-him-packing-on-a-duck-in-2nd-test-vs-nz-watch-433830">Virat Kohli upset as controversial DRS decision sends him packing on a duck in 2nd Test vs NZ - WATCH</a>

After Kohli fell for a duck, Mayank's 120 not out took India to 221-4 at stumps on the opening day in the series decider in Mumbai. India will look to post anything over 350 and challenge the Kane Williamson-less Kiwis in the final Test.&nbsp;

Virat Kohli returned to international cricket after India's T20 World Cup campaign on Friday morning (December 3). The 33-year-old was out of action from the India-New Zealand T20Is and Test series opener, however, took charge of the side for the second and final Test at Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai.

Virat Kohli returned to international cricket after India's T20 World Cup campaign on Friday morning (December 3). The 33-year-old was out of action from the India-New Zealand T20Is and Test series opener, however, took charge of the side for the second and final Test at Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai. After winning the toss, Kohli came out to bat with India losing two quick wickets after an 80-run opening stand between Mayank Agarwal and Shubman Gill. As No. 3 batter Cheteshwar Pujara departed for a duck, the onus fell on Kohli and Mayank. Nonetheless, the superstar batsman's return to the 22-yard cricket strip turned out to be a nightmare as he fell for a 4-ball duck, his 10th as Indian captain, as he fell to spinner Ajaz Patel. The dismissal was controversial as it went upstairs and the third umpire took a lot of time before giving the Indian skipper out. While it looked like there was a clear edge, Kohli was given out due to 'lack of evidence' that the ball hit the bat first. Hence, he was given out lbw. ALSO READ | Virat Kohli achieves two unwanted records after failing to open his account on Day 1 of Mumbai Test Many believe Kohli was wrongly given out as the ball hit the bat first and then the pad, ruling out the lbw scenario. Now, former NZ spinner-cum-captain Daniel Vettori opined on his dismissal. "It was fairly obvious that he nicked it. For me, it seems obvious that there was an inside edge although it was close. But for one man to sit there and a make a crucial decision, maybe the match referee could have stepped in,” Vettori said in a conversation with ESPNcricinfo. On the other hand, former Indian opener Wasim Jaffer stated, "I can understand the on-field umpire making a decision. That can happen. But the third umpire making so many mistakes after seeing so many replays is disappointing. And Virender Sharma did have a very poor first Test and that form continues for him as well." He also took to his official Twitter account and wrote, "That was bat first in my opinion. And I understand the ‘conclusive evidence’ part. But I think this was an instance where common sense should have prevailed. But as they say, common sense is not so common. Feel for Virat Kohli. #Unlucky #INDvNZ." ALSO READ | Virat Kohli upset as controversial DRS decision sends him packing on a duck in 2nd Test vs NZ - WATCH After Kohli fell for a duck, Mayank's 120 not out took India to 221-4 at stumps on the opening day in the series decider in Mumbai. India will look to post anything over 350 and challenge the Kane Williamson-less Kiwis in the final Test.

'Fairly obvious there was an edge' - Former NZ captain on Virat Kohli's controversial dismissal in Mumbai Test

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