England head coach Chris Silverwood&nbsp;on Wednesday&nbsp;apologised&nbsp;for the way Moeen Ali's exit from the ongoing Test series against India was communicated by captain Joe Root but said the team management is "happy to own that decision".&nbsp;&nbsp;

Root, in a post-match press conference, had said that Moeen had "chosen" to leave the India tour after the completion of second Test in Chennai, which was the all-rounder's first appearance in 18 months.&nbsp;&nbsp;

However, Moeen had actually taken up a pre-planned period of rest, allocated to all of England's multi-format players.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“First of&nbsp;all&nbsp;we’re sorry if the impression we gave yesterday was that Moeen’s being treated different to other people,”&nbsp;Silverwood&nbsp;said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“He isn’t, I can guarantee you of that; the decision was ours, as it was with Jos Buttler, Sam Curran, Jonny Bairstow and Mark Wood. We’re happy to own that decision.”&nbsp;

The England head coach further admitted that staying out for the remainder of the Test series against India was discussed with the all-rounder but accepted that Moeen's personal circumstances made it tough.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-announce-squad-for-last-2-tests-vs-england-as-shami-jadeja-miss-out-364265" hreflang="en">India announce squad for last 2 Tests vs England as Shami, Jadeja miss out</a>

Notably, Moeen had spent 20 days inside a room for quarantine since the start of the Sri Lanka tour, having tested positive for COVID-19 on arrival in Sri Lanka in the month of January.&nbsp;

“The question was posed to him. He was asked, but ultimately we felt it was the right decision for him to go home,” he said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“It was a unique situation with&nbsp;Mooen, he’d spent so long in isolation, getting Covid out in Sri Lanka, and with how he just broke back into the team.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“We touched base with Mo last night, as did Joe. He’s fine, he understands that we’ve got his best interests at heart and we’re trying to look after him, the same as the other players. These are strange times we’re in and we have to look after our players.”&nbsp;

Former England cricketers like Sir Ian Botham, Kevin Pietersen, and Michael Vaughan have criticised the&nbsp;rotation policy employed by the Three Lions.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ravichandran-ashwin-and-rohit-sharma-jump-in-icc-test-player-rankings-after-england-win-364249" hreflang="en">Ravichandran Ashwin and Rohit Sharma jump in ICC Test Player Rankings after England win</a>

"I think the rotation policy is something we need to get on with and make it work as best as we can. People do need to see their families, we are trying to make life for our players as comfortable as possible. We just need to make it work, people need to spend some time with their families. We prioritise Tests and T20s equally, T20 World Cup is here in India, but we need to make sure that everyone stays in top form, and in order to do that, we need to rotate players and look after them. I can guarantee you we are not prioritising anything above Test cricket," said Silverwood.&nbsp;

"We have to rotate people, that's why we are working so hard in order to have a big group of players we can work with. We have seen some players who we might have not seen normally. We understand that we need to do it. We also need to make sure that when we arrive at the Ashes, we have a healthy group of players that are all capable of performing. This all started for me one year ago, we have some great Test cricket between now and then, and we want to win everything," he added.

Meanwhile, England have announced the squad for the third Test against India, scheduled to be played from February 24.&nbsp;&nbsp;

While the likes of Jonny Bairstow and Mark Wood have been included in the squad, Moeen will head back home.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<h2 aria-level="2" lang="EN-US" paraeid="{eb18ab91-3fd9-45ef-b0cc-d0235be50b9b}{69}" paraid="945405439" role="heading" >England squad for third Test:&nbsp;</h2>

Joe Root (c), James Anderson, Jofra Archer, Jonny Bairstow, Dominic Bess, Stuart Broad, Rory Burns, Zak Crawley, Ben Foakes, Dan Lawrence, Jack Leach, Ollie Pope, Dom Sibley, Ben Stokes, Olly Stone, Chris&nbsp;Woakes, Mark Wood.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

England head coach Chris Silverwood on Wednesday apologised for the way Moeen Ali's exit from the ongoing Test series against India was communicated by captain Joe Root but said the team management is "happy to own that decision".

England head coach Chris Silverwood on Wednesday apologised for the way Moeen Ali's exit from the ongoing Test series against India was communicated by captain Joe Root but said the team management is "happy to own that decision". Root, in a post-match press conference, had said that Moeen had "chosen" to leave the India tour after the completion of second Test in Chennai, which was the all-rounder's first appearance in 18 months. However, Moeen had actually taken up a pre-planned period of rest, allocated to all of England's multi-format players. “First of all we’re sorry if the impression we gave yesterday was that Moeen’s being treated different to other people,” Silverwood said. “He isn’t, I can guarantee you of that; the decision was ours, as it was with Jos Buttler, Sam Curran, Jonny Bairstow and Mark Wood. We’re happy to own that decision.” The England head coach further admitted that staying out for the remainder of the Test series against India was discussed with the all-rounder but accepted that Moeen's personal circumstances made it tough. ALSO READ: India announce squad for last 2 Tests vs England as Shami, Jadeja miss out Notably, Moeen had spent 20 days inside a room for quarantine since the start of the Sri Lanka tour, having tested positive for COVID-19 on arrival in Sri Lanka in the month of January. “The question was posed to him. He was asked, but ultimately we felt it was the right decision for him to go home,” he said. “It was a unique situation with Mooen, he’d spent so long in isolation, getting Covid out in Sri Lanka, and with how he just broke back into the team. “We touched base with Mo last night, as did Joe. He’s fine, he understands that we’ve got his best interests at heart and we’re trying to look after him, the same as the other players. These are strange times we’re in and we have to look after our players.” Former England cricketers like Sir Ian Botham, Kevin Pietersen, and Michael Vaughan have criticised the rotation policy employed by the Three Lions. ALSO READ: Ravichandran Ashwin and Rohit Sharma jump in ICC Test Player Rankings after England win "I think the rotation policy is something we need to get on with and make it work as best as we can. People do need to see their families, we are trying to make life for our players as comfortable as possible. We just need to make it work, people need to spend some time with their families. We prioritise Tests and T20s equally, T20 World Cup is here in India, but we need to make sure that everyone stays in top form, and in order to do that, we need to rotate players and look after them. I can guarantee you we are not prioritising anything above Test cricket," said Silverwood. "We have to rotate people, that's why we are working so hard in order to have a big group of players we can work with. We have seen some players who we might have not seen normally. We understand that we need to do it. We also need to make sure that when we arrive at the Ashes, we have a healthy group of players that are all capable of performing. This all started for me one year ago, we have some great Test cricket between now and then, and we want to win everything," he added. Meanwhile, England have announced the squad for the third Test against India, scheduled to be played from February 24. While the likes of Jonny Bairstow and Mark Wood have been included in the squad, Moeen will head back home. England squad for third Test: Joe Root (c), James Anderson, Jofra Archer, Jonny Bairstow, Dominic Bess, Stuart Broad, Rory Burns, Zak Crawley, Ben Foakes, Dan Lawrence, Jack Leach, Ollie Pope, Dom Sibley, Ben Stokes, Olly Stone, Chris Woakes, Mark Wood.

'We’re sorry': England apologise to Moeen Ali after India Test series exit

Stefanos Tsitsipas on Wednesday stunned 20-time Grand Slam winner Rafael Nadal 3-6, 2-6, 7-6 (7/4), 6-4, 7-5 at the Australian Open 2021 to set-up a cracking semi-final encounter against Daniil Medvedev.&nbsp;Tsitsipas came back from 2 sets down to defeat the Spaniard as he became the only the second&nbsp;player to beat Nadal from that scoreline.&nbsp;

Nadal, a second seed, was on course for a comfortable win as the Spaniard won the first two set. However, Tsitsipas upped the ante to turn around the match and prevailed 3-6, 2-6, 7-6 (7/4), 6-4, 7-5 in a seismic upset.

"I don't know what happened after the third set -- I fly like little bird, everything was working for me," Tsitsipas said.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/within-the-rules-shocked-barty-says-muchova-timeout-not-to-blame-364264" hreflang="en">'Within the rules': Shocked Barty says Muchova timeout not to blame</a>

"The emotions at the end were indescribable, they were something else."

Nadal lost the match after going two sets up in a Grand Slam - only twice in his career - having previously been defeated by Fabio Fognini in the third round of the US Open 2015.

Nadal, 34, ends the Australian Open 2021 tied with Roger Federer on 20 Grand Slam titles. However, Novak Djokovic can still pull within the two if he goes on to win his 18th Grand Slam at Melbourne Park. Djokovic will play the other semi-final against Russian qualifier Aslan Karatsev.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-open-medvedev-beats-compatriot-rublev-to-reach-semis-364235" hreflang="en">Australian Open: Medvedev beats compatriot Rublev to reach semis</a>

Fifth seed Tsitsipas will not look to reach his maiden Grand Slam final when he takes the court to face an in-form Daniil Medvedev in the semi-final. Tsitsipas defeated Nadal for just the second time off eight matches.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<h2>Australian Open 2021 Quarter-Final results:</h2>

Men's singles

Daniil Medvedev (RUS x4) bt Andrey Rublev (RUS x7) 7-5, 6-3, 6-2

Stefanos Tsitsipas (GRE x5) bt Rafael Nadal (ESP x2) 3-6, 2-6, 7-6 (7/4), 6-4, 7-5

Women's singles

Karolina Muchova (CZE x25) bt Ashleigh Barty (AUS x1) 1-6, 6-3, 6-2

Jennifer Brady (USA x22) bt Jessica Pegula (USA) 4-6, 6-2, 6-1

Stefanos Tsitsipas on Wednesday stunned 20-time Grand Slam winner Rafael Nadal 3-6, 2-6, 7-6 (7/4), 6-4, 7-5 at the Australian Open 2021 to set-up a cracking semi-final encounter against Daniil Medvedev.

Stefanos Tsitsipas on Wednesday stunned 20-time Grand Slam winner Rafael Nadal 3-6, 2-6, 7-6 (7/4), 6-4, 7-5 at the Australian Open 2021 to set-up a cracking semi-final encounter against Daniil Medvedev. Tsitsipas came back from 2 sets down to defeat the Spaniard as he became the only the second player to beat Nadal from that scoreline. Nadal, a second seed, was on course for a comfortable win as the Spaniard won the first two set. However, Tsitsipas upped the ante to turn around the match and prevailed 3-6, 2-6, 7-6 (7/4), 6-4, 7-5 in a seismic upset. "I don't know what happened after the third set -- I fly like little bird, everything was working for me," Tsitsipas said. ALSO READ: 'Within the rules': Shocked Barty says Muchova timeout not to blame "The emotions at the end were indescribable, they were something else." Nadal lost the match after going two sets up in a Grand Slam - only twice in his career - having previously been defeated by Fabio Fognini in the third round of the US Open 2015. Nadal, 34, ends the Australian Open 2021 tied with Roger Federer on 20 Grand Slam titles. However, Novak Djokovic can still pull within the two if he goes on to win his 18th Grand Slam at Melbourne Park. Djokovic will play the other semi-final against Russian qualifier Aslan Karatsev. ALSO READ: Australian Open: Medvedev beats compatriot Rublev to reach semis Fifth seed Tsitsipas will not look to reach his maiden Grand Slam final when he takes the court to face an in-form Daniil Medvedev in the semi-final. Tsitsipas defeated Nadal for just the second time off eight matches. Australian Open 2021 Quarter-Final results: Men's singles Daniil Medvedev (RUS x4) bt Andrey Rublev (RUS x7) 7-5, 6-3, 6-2 Stefanos Tsitsipas (GRE x5) bt Rafael Nadal (ESP x2) 3-6, 2-6, 7-6 (7/4), 6-4, 7-5 Women's singles Karolina Muchova (CZE x25) bt Ashleigh Barty (AUS x1) 1-6, 6-3, 6-2 Jennifer Brady (USA x22) bt Jessica Pegula (USA) 4-6, 6-2, 6-1

Stefanos Tsitsipas stuns Rafael Nadal at Australian Open, to face Daniil Medvedev in semi-final

Ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 auction, former Kolkata Knight Riders captain Gautam Gambhir has tipped franchises to sign the "next Andre Russell" as the southpaw made predictions about which players can become big-money signing in the IPL 2021 auction.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Gambhir has named New Zealand all-rounder Kyle Jamieson as the "next Andre Russell" while terming him as a future asset&nbsp;around whom a franchise can build their core for the future.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Jamieson made his mark in Super Smash and went on to make his debut against India where the all-rounder&nbsp;wreaked havoc&nbsp;with both bat and ball.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"Kyle Jamieson is not a big name at the moment, but he will turn out to be a superstar. This is probably the right auction for all franchises to get a hold of him. And because he is someone whom you can keep for a longer period of time. He is seven&nbsp;feet,&nbsp;he is that tall. He can bowl 140 and can hit the ball long. He probably could be the next Andre Russell in the making," Gambhir said on Star Sports.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kings-xi-punjab-changes-name-to-punjab-kings-ahead-of-ipl-2021-auction-new-logo-unveiled-364270" hreflang="en">Kings XI Punjab changes name to Punjab Kings ahead of IPL 2021 auction, new logo unveiled</a>

"Yes, he's not a finished product and everyone knows about it but is someone who is probably young and you can have that core built around him. A franchise like Kings XI (Punjab Kings) who are looking for that all-rounder or some other franchise, they can think of someone like Jamieson.&nbsp;

"Even Sunrisers, because he is someone who can bowl with the new ball, and can bat at No. 6 and 7 and can hit the long ball against spin and fast bowling. He's a great asset and he's going to get better from here,” the former Indian batsman added.&nbsp;

Jamieson had registered himself at a base price of INR 75 lakh for the IPL 2021 auction and is expected to trigger a bidding war among the franchise. Gambhir, who said Jamieson is not yet a finished product, tipped the Kiwi star&nbsp;to be the one for the future.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-ms-dhoni-to-yuvraj-singh-costliest-picks-in-every-ipl-auctions-364071" hreflang="en">From MS Dhoni to Yuvraj Singh: Costliest picks in every IPL auctions</a>

"It's not as if he's reached his peak. There are players like Russell and Morris, who have already reached their peak. They can't get better than this. But with Jamieson, there will always be this thing where he'll keep improving. This is his first experience in India, he'll only start getting better from here on.&nbsp;So&nbsp;it will be a great addition if someone can pick him and keep him for a long time," the former KKR captain added.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 auction, former Kolkata Knight Riders captain Gautam Gambhir has tipped franchises to sign the "next Andre Russell" as the southpaw made predictions about which players can become big-money signing in the IPL 2021 auction.

Ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 auction, former Kolkata Knight Riders captain Gautam Gambhir has tipped franchises to sign the "next Andre Russell" as the southpaw made predictions about which players can become big-money signing in the IPL 2021 auction. Gambhir has named New Zealand all-rounder Kyle Jamieson as the "next Andre Russell" while terming him as a future asset around whom a franchise can build their core for the future. Jamieson made his mark in Super Smash and went on to make his debut against India where the all-rounder wreaked havoc with both bat and ball. "Kyle Jamieson is not a big name at the moment, but he will turn out to be a superstar. This is probably the right auction for all franchises to get a hold of him. And because he is someone whom you can keep for a longer period of time. He is seven feet, he is that tall. He can bowl 140 and can hit the ball long. He probably could be the next Andre Russell in the making," Gambhir said on Star Sports. ALSO READ: Kings XI Punjab changes name to Punjab Kings ahead of IPL 2021 auction, new logo unveiled "Yes, he's not a finished product and everyone knows about it but is someone who is probably young and you can have that core built around him. A franchise like Kings XI (Punjab Kings) who are looking for that all-rounder or some other franchise, they can think of someone like Jamieson. "Even Sunrisers, because he is someone who can bowl with the new ball, and can bat at No. 6 and 7 and can hit the long ball against spin and fast bowling. He's a great asset and he's going to get better from here,” the former Indian batsman added. Jamieson had registered himself at a base price of INR 75 lakh for the IPL 2021 auction and is expected to trigger a bidding war among the franchise. Gambhir, who said Jamieson is not yet a finished product, tipped the Kiwi star to be the one for the future. ALSO READ: From MS Dhoni to Yuvraj Singh: Costliest picks in every IPL auctions "It's not as if he's reached his peak. There are players like Russell and Morris, who have already reached their peak. They can't get better than this. But with Jamieson, there will always be this thing where he'll keep improving. This is his first experience in India, he'll only start getting better from here on. So it will be a great addition if someone can pick him and keep him for a long time," the former KKR captain added.

IPL 2021 Auction: Gautam Gambhir tips franchise to sign 'next Andre Russell'

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Wednesday announced the Team India squad for the last two Tests against England, scheduled to be played at the&nbsp;Motera&nbsp;Stadium in Ahmedabad. The All-India Senior Selection Committee on Wednesday met to pick the squad with the team being the same for the much-awaited pink-ball Test against England.&nbsp;

Interestingly, senior pacer Umesh Yadav will join the Indian squad in Ahmedabad following his fitness assessment and will replace Shardul Thakur, who will be released for the Vijay Hazare Trophy 2021.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Moreover, Mohammed Shami and Ravindra Jadeja continue to remain absent from the Indian squad and are still recovering from their injuries, picked up during the Australian tour.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ravichandran-ashwin-and-rohit-sharma-jump-in-icc-test-player-rankings-after-england-win-364249" hreflang="en">Ravichandran Ashwin and Rohit Sharma jump in ICC Test Player Rankings after England win</a>

Indian squad for last 2 Tests vs England:&nbsp;Virat Kohli (Captain), Rohit Sharma, Mayank Agarwal, Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane (Vice-captain), KL Rahul, Hardik Pandya, Rishabh Pant (wicket-keeper), Wriddhiman Saha (wicket-keeper), R Ashwin, Kuldeep Yadav,&nbsp;Axar&nbsp;Patel, Washington Sundar, Ishant Sharma, Jasprit&nbsp;Bumrah, Md. Siraj.&nbsp;

Net Bowlers:&nbsp;Ankit Rajpoot, Avesh Khan, Sandeep Warrier, Krishnappa Gowtham, Saurabh Kumar&nbsp;

Standby players:&nbsp;KS Bharat, Rahul Chahar.&nbsp;

Abhimanyu Easwaran, Shahbaz Nadeem and Priyank Panchal have been released for Vijay Hazare Trophy.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-contemplating-allowing-fans-for-ipl-2021-sourav-ganguly-364234" hreflang="en">BCCI contemplating allowing fans for IPL 2021: Sourav Ganguly</a>

The four-Test series is firmly locked at 1-1 following India's brilliant 317-run win in the second Test in Chennai. England started the series with a superb win in Chennai but fell short in the second Test as Virat Kohli and Co. made a great comeback in the series.

However, with the third Test being a pink-ball Test, the odds hang in balance. While England will look to unleash their pace battery against India, the hosts will look to continue their home domination.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Wednesday announced the Team India squad for the last two Tests against England, scheduled to be played at the Motera Stadium in Ahmedabad.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Wednesday announced the Team India squad for the last two Tests against England, scheduled to be played at the Motera Stadium in Ahmedabad. The All-India Senior Selection Committee on Wednesday met to pick the squad with the team being the same for the much-awaited pink-ball Test against England. Interestingly, senior pacer Umesh Yadav will join the Indian squad in Ahmedabad following his fitness assessment and will replace Shardul Thakur, who will be released for the Vijay Hazare Trophy 2021. Moreover, Mohammed Shami and Ravindra Jadeja continue to remain absent from the Indian squad and are still recovering from their injuries, picked up during the Australian tour. ALSO READ: Ravichandran Ashwin and Rohit Sharma jump in ICC Test Player Rankings after England win Indian squad for last 2 Tests vs England: Virat Kohli (Captain), Rohit Sharma, Mayank Agarwal, Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane (Vice-captain), KL Rahul, Hardik Pandya, Rishabh Pant (wicket-keeper), Wriddhiman Saha (wicket-keeper), R Ashwin, Kuldeep Yadav, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Ishant Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah, Md. Siraj. Net Bowlers: Ankit Rajpoot, Avesh Khan, Sandeep Warrier, Krishnappa Gowtham, Saurabh Kumar Standby players: KS Bharat, Rahul Chahar. Abhimanyu Easwaran, Shahbaz Nadeem and Priyank Panchal have been released for Vijay Hazare Trophy. ALSO READ: BCCI contemplating allowing fans for IPL 2021: Sourav Ganguly The four-Test series is firmly locked at 1-1 following India's brilliant 317-run win in the second Test in Chennai. England started the series with a superb win in Chennai but fell short in the second Test as Virat Kohli and Co. made a great comeback in the series. However, with the third Test being a pink-ball Test, the odds hang in balance. While England will look to unleash their pace battery against India, the hosts will look to continue their home domination.

India announce squad for last 2 Tests vs England as Shami, Jadeja miss out

Ashleigh Barty said Thursday Karolina Muchova was within her rights to take a medical timeout that changed the course of their Australian Open quarter-final because her "head was spinning".

The Czech 25th seed looked finished after losing the opening set 6-1, but top seed Barty lost momentum following the near 10-minute break early in the second set as Muchova received medical attention.

A revitalised Muchova, who fought back on a hot day to snuff out hopes of first Australian champion for 43 years with a shock 1-6, 6-3, 6-2 win, said: "It was very tough and I was a bit lost on the court and my head was spinning so I took a break. It helped me."

Barty said it was not for her to pass judgement on her opponent's actions.

"When you call for the trainer, you obviously tell the umpire what the reason is," said the world number one.&nbsp;

"And then the doctor and physios come out and assess it. That's within the rules," said Barty.&nbsp;

"Obviously there are rules when we go off the court for whatever areas you're getting treated because that's quite normal.&nbsp;

"But that's not really my decision to make on whether or what her medical condition was or what the timeout was for."

Muchova, down 1-2 in the second set at the time, broke Barty immediately after the timeout then earned another to take the set.

"I was disappointed that I let that become a turning point," said Barty, who was bidding to become the first home winner since Chris O'Neil in 1978.

"I'm experienced anough now to be able to deal with that. I would have liked to have just been a little bit sharper the next game."&nbsp;

The Australian's error count began mounting as Muchova surged into her first ever Grand Slam semi-final.

"Probably pressed a little bit trying to be overly aggressive," she admitted.&nbsp;

Barty had enjoyed a great start to the season after not playing for almost 12 months because of coronavirus, winning a pre-Australian Open warm-up Yarra Valley Classic at Melbourne Park and not dropping a set in the first four rounds of the Australian Open.

"Yeah, it's heartbreaking, of course," she said.&nbsp;

"But will it deter me, will it ruin the fact we've had a really successful start to our season? Absolutely not."

Ashleigh Barty said Thursday Karolina Muchova was within her rights to take a medical timeout that changed the course of their Australian Open quarter-final because her "head was spinning".

Ashleigh Barty said Thursday Karolina Muchova was within her rights to take a medical timeout that changed the course of their Australian Open quarter-final because her "head was spinning". The Czech 25th seed looked finished after losing the opening set 6-1, but top seed Barty lost momentum following the near 10-minute break early in the second set as Muchova received medical attention. A revitalised Muchova, who fought back on a hot day to snuff out hopes of first Australian champion for 43 years with a shock 1-6, 6-3, 6-2 win, said: "It was very tough and I was a bit lost on the court and my head was spinning so I took a break. It helped me." Barty said it was not for her to pass judgement on her opponent's actions. "When you call for the trainer, you obviously tell the umpire what the reason is," said the world number one. "And then the doctor and physios come out and assess it. That's within the rules," said Barty. "Obviously there are rules when we go off the court for whatever areas you're getting treated because that's quite normal. "But that's not really my decision to make on whether or what her medical condition was or what the timeout was for." Muchova, down 1-2 in the second set at the time, broke Barty immediately after the timeout then earned another to take the set. "I was disappointed that I let that become a turning point," said Barty, who was bidding to become the first home winner since Chris O'Neil in 1978. "I'm experienced anough now to be able to deal with that. I would have liked to have just been a little bit sharper the next game." The Australian's error count began mounting as Muchova surged into her first ever Grand Slam semi-final. "Probably pressed a little bit trying to be overly aggressive," she admitted. Barty had enjoyed a great start to the season after not playing for almost 12 months because of coronavirus, winning a pre-Australian Open warm-up Yarra Valley Classic at Melbourne Park and not dropping a set in the first four rounds of the Australian Open. "Yeah, it's heartbreaking, of course," she said. "But will it deter me, will it ruin the fact we've had a really successful start to our season? Absolutely not."

'Within the rules': Shocked Barty says Muchova timeout not to blame

Liverpool rediscovered lost form and seized the initiative against RB Leipzig in the first leg of their Champions League last-16 clash by cruising to a 2-0 win in a chilly Budapest on Tuesday.

Clinical early second-half strikes from Mohamed Salah and Sadio Mane, both courtesy of dreadful defensive errors, proved decisive and leave the German side facing a formidable task in the return leg on March 10.

The win moves Jurgen Klopp's men to the brink of the Champions League quarter-finals and also ends a run of three straight defeats that has left the English champions 13 points behind leaders Manchester City in the Premier League.

"It was a game we wanted it was a game we needed tonight," Klopp told BT Sport afterwards.

"Leipzig can be a real monster. The way they play in the Bundesliga they overrun teams, they can be really physical in everything and tonight we controlled them in an exceptional way.

"They had their moments because of the quality they have but we controlled the game so tonight I think we got the result we deserved," he said.

The first leg was moved from Leipzig to the Hungarian capital due to Germany's strict Covid-19 travel restrictions.

Despite the enforced relocation,&nbsp;Julian Nagelsmann's side, on a four-game winning streak at home where they are second behind Bayern Munich in the Bundesliga, started briskly and almost went ahead on four minutes.

Marauding left-back Angelino teed up fellow Spaniard Dani Olmo for a close-range diving header past Alisson but the effort only rattled the post.

Soon after Angelino again exploited space on the left but his left-footed volley skewed harmlessly across the goalmouth.

Instead it was Liverpool, striving to reverse their slump and badly in need of a Champions League lift, who gradually created more chances, often benefitting from loose defending.

First, Salah, busy throughout, forced a block from Leipzig's Hungarian goalkeeper Peter Gulacsi on the quarter hour.

Ten minutes later Mane, outjumping Nordi Mukiele, headed a Firmino cross just over after the Brazilian striker and Salah had combined well on the right.

Shortly before half-time, Andy Robertson shaved the crossbar when his lob from distance almost caught out the Budapest-born Gulacsi dashing back after making a clearance outside his box.

Although Leipzig perked up on the restart with Alisson Becker saving from Christopher Nkunku, the German side, were made to pay for two calamitous mistakes early in the second half.

In the 53rd minute, Salah pounced on a sloppy back-pass by Austrian midfielder Marcel Sabitzer and ran unchallenged to smoothly slot past Gulacsi.

Five minutes later, Mane doubled Liverpool's lead in similar fashion, smartly finishing after Mukiele had scuffed a clearance.

"We made two huge mistakes which would be punished at any level," Nagelsmann told DAZN.&nbsp;

"Mistakes happen, we didn't play badly and we have to live with the result, we have to score twice just to take the game (return leg) to extra time, but we will try to do our best," he said.

With Swedish playmaker Emil Forsberg sidelined by a knee injury and lacking a talismanic goalscorer, Leipzig rarely threatened to pull one back.

Liverpool were left to cruise to victory, keeping alive their hopes of silverware via Champions League glory this season despite their domestic woes.

"We were for two years really good and then this year we had some problems," said Klopp.

"That's absolutely normal and I have no problem with that. It's just a lot of people probably expected us to slip again because of the situation and the boys didn't," he said.

Liverpool rediscovered lost form and seized the initiative against RB Leipzig in the first leg of their Champions League last-16 clash by cruising to a 2-0 win in a chilly Budapest on Tuesday.

Liverpool rediscovered lost form and seized the initiative against RB Leipzig in the first leg of their Champions League last-16 clash by cruising to a 2-0 win in a chilly Budapest on Tuesday. Clinical early second-half strikes from Mohamed Salah and Sadio Mane, both courtesy of dreadful defensive errors, proved decisive and leave the German side facing a formidable task in the return leg on March 10. The win moves Jurgen Klopp's men to the brink of the Champions League quarter-finals and also ends a run of three straight defeats that has left the English champions 13 points behind leaders Manchester City in the Premier League. "It was a game we wanted it was a game we needed tonight," Klopp told BT Sport afterwards. "Leipzig can be a real monster. The way they play in the Bundesliga they overrun teams, they can be really physical in everything and tonight we controlled them in an exceptional way. "They had their moments because of the quality they have but we controlled the game so tonight I think we got the result we deserved," he said. The first leg was moved from Leipzig to the Hungarian capital due to Germany's strict Covid-19 travel restrictions. Despite the enforced relocation, Julian Nagelsmann's side, on a four-game winning streak at home where they are second behind Bayern Munich in the Bundesliga, started briskly and almost went ahead on four minutes. Marauding left-back Angelino teed up fellow Spaniard Dani Olmo for a close-range diving header past Alisson but the effort only rattled the post. Soon after Angelino again exploited space on the left but his left-footed volley skewed harmlessly across the goalmouth. Instead it was Liverpool, striving to reverse their slump and badly in need of a Champions League lift, who gradually created more chances, often benefitting from loose defending. First, Salah, busy throughout, forced a block from Leipzig's Hungarian goalkeeper Peter Gulacsi on the quarter hour. Ten minutes later Mane, outjumping Nordi Mukiele, headed a Firmino cross just over after the Brazilian striker and Salah had combined well on the right. Shortly before half-time, Andy Robertson shaved the crossbar when his lob from distance almost caught out the Budapest-born Gulacsi dashing back after making a clearance outside his box. Although Leipzig perked up on the restart with Alisson Becker saving from Christopher Nkunku, the German side, were made to pay for two calamitous mistakes early in the second half. In the 53rd minute, Salah pounced on a sloppy back-pass by Austrian midfielder Marcel Sabitzer and ran unchallenged to smoothly slot past Gulacsi. Five minutes later, Mane doubled Liverpool's lead in similar fashion, smartly finishing after Mukiele had scuffed a clearance. "We made two huge mistakes which would be punished at any level," Nagelsmann told DAZN. "Mistakes happen, we didn't play badly and we have to live with the result, we have to score twice just to take the game (return leg) to extra time, but we will try to do our best," he said. With Swedish playmaker Emil Forsberg sidelined by a knee injury and lacking a talismanic goalscorer, Leipzig rarely threatened to pull one back. Liverpool were left to cruise to victory, keeping alive their hopes of silverware via Champions League glory this season despite their domestic woes. "We were for two years really good and then this year we had some problems," said Klopp. "That's absolutely normal and I have no problem with that. It's just a lot of people probably expected us to slip again because of the situation and the boys didn't," he said.

Liverpool seize control over RB Leipzig in Budapest

Barcelona&nbsp;are&nbsp;set to host Paris Saint-Germain at the Camp&nbsp;Nou&nbsp;in what promises to be a cracking contest in round of 16 of UEFA Champions League. The UCL match between Barcelona and PSG is one of the most-awaited clashes from the round of 16 draw with Lionel Messi set to face a plethora of stars at PSG under manager Mauricio Pochettino.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The transfer speculations surrounding Messi and PSG makes the tie even more interesting. Barcelona would be missing a range of the key players with the likes of&nbsp;Ansu Fati, Philippe Coutinho, Sergi Roberto, Gerard Pique, Ronald Araujo, and Martin Braithwaite&nbsp;set to miss the match. Whereas&nbsp;PSG&nbsp;would be without the&nbsp;likes of&nbsp;of Neymar. Angel Di Maria, Juan Bernat, and Timothee&nbsp;Pembele.&nbsp;

<h2 lang="EN-US" paraeid="{4a5b34ed-d39b-4912-86bb-8b52f5471ec1}{227}" paraid="841857320" >When is Barcelona vs Paris Saint-Germain UEFA Champions League 2020-21 Round of 16&nbsp;match?&nbsp;</h2>

The&nbsp;Barcelona vs Paris Saint-Germain UEFA Champions League 2020-21 Round of 16 clash will take place on Wednesday, February 17.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

<h2 lang="EN-US" paraeid="{c0262c65-f393-4700-9126-4bf4a68421f1}{71}" paraid="1881706658" >What are the timings of Barcelona vs Paris Saint-Germain UEFA Champions League 2020-21 Round of 16 match?&nbsp;</h2>

Barcelona vs Paris Saint-Germain UEFA Champions League 2020-21 Round of 16 match will start at 01:30 AM IST.&nbsp;

<h3 lang="EN-US" paraeid="{c0262c65-f393-4700-9126-4bf4a68421f1}{98}" paraid="762547755" >Where is Barcelona vs Paris Saint-Germain UEFA Champions League 2020-21 Round of 16 match being played?&nbsp;</h3>

The Barcelona vs Paris Saint-Germain UEFA Champions League 2020-21 Round of 16 match will be&nbsp;hosted&nbsp;by&nbsp;the Camp&nbsp;Nou.&nbsp;

<h2 lang="EN-US" paraeid="{c0262c65-f393-4700-9126-4bf4a68421f1}{125}" paraid="807155670" >Which TV channel will&nbsp;telecast&nbsp;Barcelona vs Paris Saint-Germain UEFA Champions League 2020-21 Round of 16 match?&nbsp;</h2>

Sony will broadcast the UEFA Champions League 2020-21 matches LIVE in India this season. The UEFA Champions League 2020-21 Barcelona vs Paris Saint-Germain will be LIVE on Sony Ten channels.&nbsp;

<h2 lang="EN-US" paraeid="{71b5fb69-417d-4175-96cc-31ec3fe74131}{113}" paraid="498332661" >Where to watch live-streaming of&nbsp;Barcelona vs Paris Saint-Germain UEFA Champions League 2020-21 Round of 16 match?&nbsp;</h2>

The Barcelona vs Paris Saint-Germain UEFA Champions League 2020-21 Round of 16 match will be live-streamed by Sony Liv.&nbsp;

Barcelona are set to host Paris Saint-Germain at the Camp Nou in what promises to be a cracking contest in round of 16 of UEFA Champions League. The UCL match between Barcelona and PSG is one of the most-awaited clashes from the round of 16 draw with Lionel Messi set to face a plethora of stars at PSG under manager Mauricio Pochettino.

Barcelona are set to host Paris Saint-Germain at the Camp Nou in what promises to be a cracking contest in round of 16 of UEFA Champions League. The UCL match between Barcelona and PSG is one of the most-awaited clashes from the round of 16 draw with Lionel Messi set to face a plethora of stars at PSG under manager Mauricio Pochettino. The transfer speculations surrounding Messi and PSG makes the tie even more interesting. Barcelona would be missing a range of the key players with the likes of Ansu Fati, Philippe Coutinho, Sergi Roberto, Gerard Pique, Ronald Araujo, and Martin Braithwaite set to miss the match. Whereas PSG would be without the likes of of Neymar. Angel Di Maria, Juan Bernat, and Timothee Pembele. When is Barcelona vs Paris Saint-Germain UEFA Champions League 2020-21 Round of 16 match? The Barcelona vs Paris Saint-Germain UEFA Champions League 2020-21 Round of 16 clash will take place on Wednesday, February 17. What are the timings of Barcelona vs Paris Saint-Germain UEFA Champions League 2020-21 Round of 16 match? Barcelona vs Paris Saint-Germain UEFA Champions League 2020-21 Round of 16 match will start at 01:30 AM IST. Where is Barcelona vs Paris Saint-Germain UEFA Champions League 2020-21 Round of 16 match being played? The Barcelona vs Paris Saint-Germain UEFA Champions League 2020-21 Round of 16 match will be hosted by the Camp Nou. Which TV channel will telecast Barcelona vs Paris Saint-Germain UEFA Champions League 2020-21 Round of 16 match? Sony will broadcast the UEFA Champions League 2020-21 matches LIVE in India this season. The UEFA Champions League 2020-21 Barcelona vs Paris Saint-Germain will be LIVE on Sony Ten channels. Where to watch live-streaming of Barcelona vs Paris Saint-Germain UEFA Champions League 2020-21 Round of 16 match? The Barcelona vs Paris Saint-Germain UEFA Champions League 2020-21 Round of 16 match will be live-streamed by Sony Liv.

Barcelona vs Paris Saint-Germain Live Streaming UCL: When and where to watch live streaming of Barca vs PSG 1st leg

A delighted BCCI President Sourav Ganguly on Tuesday announced that all tickets for the pink ball Day/Night Test between India and England in Ahmedabad have been "sold out", adding that a call on entry of spectators in the upcoming IPL will also be taken shortly.

The pink ball Test between India and England is slated to begin at the Motera, the the world's biggest cricket stadium, in Ahmedabad from February 24 and the authorities have decided to allow 50 per cent spectators.

"Ahmedabad is completely sold out. Happy to see normalcy back," Ganguly told Star Sports in an interview.

"I spoke to Jay Shah and he's very keen on these Test matches. Just for him also cricket is coming back to Ahmedabad after six-seven years because they built the new stadium," former India captain said.

The fixture will be the second time India host a Day/Night Test. The first was played in Kolkata against Bangladesh in 2019.

"I have told him we have set an example with pink-ball Test last year in Kolkata, so it cannot go beyond that and we want to see every seat and stand full. And that's what it is, the tickets have gone, as well as for the T20s which will follow the Tests," Ganguly said.

The second Test between India and England in Chennai marked the return of spectators for an international match in India after COVID-19 outbreak forced a complete shutdown of sporting activity in March last year. The BCCI is also contemplating allowing spectators in the IPL, which is slated to begin in the second week of April.

"This year is going to be big as well because of what it is. We'll see whether we can get the crowd back into the IPL, it's a decision we'll have to take very shortly. But it's going to be another great tournament," Ganguly said.

Talking about the IPL mini-auction, to be held on Thursday, Ganguly said:

"It is not a big auction but a lot of teams will have a lot to fill. Specially Kolkata Knight Riders and Chennai Super King's will have a lot of work to do in the auction. The former Indian skipper added that a pink ball Test will be a permanent fixture in every home series.

"Absolutely. One pink-ball Test in a series is ideal. Every generation goes through changes, pink ball is one of the main changes for Test match cricket, and to keep Test match cricket alive. "I think with packed Ahmedabad stadium the next week will be another great sight for everyone."

On the personal front, Ganguly, who underwent two rounds of angioplasty last month, said he is feeling 'fit and fine.'

"I'm feeling absolutely fine. Yes, there was a bit of scare but luckily it wasn't as scary as everyone thought. I'm fit and fine and I'm back to work."

A delighted BCCI President Sourav Ganguly on Tuesday announced that all tickets for the pink ball Day/Night Test between India and England in Ahmedabad have been "sold out", adding that a call on entry of spectators in the upcoming IPL will also be taken shortly.

A delighted BCCI President Sourav Ganguly on Tuesday announced that all tickets for the pink ball Day/Night Test between India and England in Ahmedabad have been "sold out", adding that a call on entry of spectators in the upcoming IPL will also be taken shortly. The pink ball Test between India and England is slated to begin at the Motera, the the world's biggest cricket stadium, in Ahmedabad from February 24 and the authorities have decided to allow 50 per cent spectators. "Ahmedabad is completely sold out. Happy to see normalcy back," Ganguly told Star Sports in an interview. "I spoke to Jay Shah and he's very keen on these Test matches. Just for him also cricket is coming back to Ahmedabad after six-seven years because they built the new stadium," former India captain said. The fixture will be the second time India host a Day/Night Test. The first was played in Kolkata against Bangladesh in 2019. "I have told him we have set an example with pink-ball Test last year in Kolkata, so it cannot go beyond that and we want to see every seat and stand full. And that's what it is, the tickets have gone, as well as for the T20s which will follow the Tests," Ganguly said. The second Test between India and England in Chennai marked the return of spectators for an international match in India after COVID-19 outbreak forced a complete shutdown of sporting activity in March last year. The BCCI is also contemplating allowing spectators in the IPL, which is slated to begin in the second week of April. "This year is going to be big as well because of what it is. We'll see whether we can get the crowd back into the IPL, it's a decision we'll have to take very shortly. But it's going to be another great tournament," Ganguly said. Talking about the IPL mini-auction, to be held on Thursday, Ganguly said: "It is not a big auction but a lot of teams will have a lot to fill. Specially Kolkata Knight Riders and Chennai Super King's will have a lot of work to do in the auction. The former Indian skipper added that a pink ball Test will be a permanent fixture in every home series. "Absolutely. One pink-ball Test in a series is ideal. Every generation goes through changes, pink ball is one of the main changes for Test match cricket, and to keep Test match cricket alive. "I think with packed Ahmedabad stadium the next week will be another great sight for everyone." On the personal front, Ganguly, who underwent two rounds of angioplasty last month, said he is feeling 'fit and fine.' "I'm feeling absolutely fine. Yes, there was a bit of scare but luckily it wasn't as scary as everyone thought. I'm fit and fine and I'm back to work."

Pink-ball Test between India and England 'sold out', confirms BCCI president Sourav Ganguly

Serbian ace Novak Djokovic smashed his racquet and then knocked out Alexander Zverev from the Australian Open as the defending champion entered the semi-finals of the Grand Slam on Tuesday.&nbsp;

Nursing an abdominal injury, Djokovic produced a patchy performance but credit to his mental strength that he went on to win the match against Zverev by&nbsp;6-7 (6/8), 6-2, 6-4, 7-6 (8/6).&nbsp;

Djokovic is being tipped as hot&nbsp;favourite&nbsp;to reach the final of Australian Open when he locks horns with Russian qualifier Aslan&nbsp;Karatsev, who continued his dream run&nbsp;with a 2-6, 6-4, 6-1, 6-2 win against injured Bulgarian Grigor Dimitrov.&nbsp;

The world number ripped his racquet apart after slipping behind in the third set but recovered brilliantly to win the set and was ice-cool on the big&nbsp;points as he drilled an ace to win the decisive tie-breaker.&nbsp;

<img alt="Djokovic" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="172bbed1-ba7f-44db-a330-09c261598931" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_9349YN.jpg" />

"Down to the very last shot it was anybody's match," said the 33-year-old Serb.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

"A lot of nerves out there, a lot of pressure. Emotionally I feel a little bit drained, honestly."&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/williams-osaka-into-semis-as-russian-fairytale-continues-364016" hreflang="en">Williams, Osaka into semis as Russian fairytale continues</a>

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Guess who's in the lead.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AusOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AusOpen</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/DjokerNole?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DjokerNole</a> <a href="https://t.co/H5684fGi8E">pic.twitter.com/H5684fGi8E</a>
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Djokovic remains on track for a record-extending ninth Australian Open title and 18th&nbsp;Grand Slam trophy as he continues to chase rivals Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal – who both have 20.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Earlier, Williams took a step towards a record-equalling&nbsp;24th Grand Slam title with a 6-3, 6-3 dismantling of second seed Simona Halep, her nemesis in the 2019 Wimbledon final.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/history-making-qualifier-karatsev-reaches-australian-open-semis-364012" hreflang="en">History-making qualifier Karatsev reaches Australian Open semis</a>

Williams, 39, said her level was improving ahead of her meeting with Japan's Osaka, who came out on top in their tempestuous 2018 US Open title match.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"Definitely think this is the best match I have played this tournament, for sure," said the 10th seed.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"Obviously I had to, going up against the number two in the world, so I knew I had to do better."&nbsp;

(With AFP inputs)&nbsp;

Serbian ace Novak Djokovic smashed his racquet and then knocked out Alexander Zverev from the Australian Open as the defending champion entered the semi-finals of the Grand Slam on Tuesday.

Serbian ace Novak Djokovic smashed his racquet and then knocked out Alexander Zverev from the Australian Open as the defending champion entered the semi-finals of the Grand Slam on Tuesday. Nursing an abdominal injury, Djokovic produced a patchy performance but credit to his mental strength that he went on to win the match against Zverev by 6-7 (6/8), 6-2, 6-4, 7-6 (8/6). Djokovic is being tipped as hot favourite to reach the final of Australian Open when he locks horns with Russian qualifier Aslan Karatsev, who continued his dream run with a 2-6, 6-4, 6-1, 6-2 win against injured Bulgarian Grigor Dimitrov. The world number ripped his racquet apart after slipping behind in the third set but recovered brilliantly to win the set and was ice-cool on the big points as he drilled an ace to win the decisive tie-breaker. "Down to the very last shot it was anybody's match," said the 33-year-old Serb. "A lot of nerves out there, a lot of pressure. Emotionally I feel a little bit drained, honestly." ALSO READ: Williams, Osaka into semis as Russian fairytale continues Guess who's in the lead.#AusOpen | @DjokerNole pic.twitter.com/H5684fGi8E — Tennis Channel (@TennisChannel) February 16, 2021 × Djokovic remains on track for a record-extending ninth Australian Open title and 18th Grand Slam trophy as he continues to chase rivals Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal – who both have 20. Earlier, Williams took a step towards a record-equalling 24th Grand Slam title with a 6-3, 6-3 dismantling of second seed Simona Halep, her nemesis in the 2019 Wimbledon final. ALSO READ: History-making qualifier Karatsev reaches Australian Open semis Williams, 39, said her level was improving ahead of her meeting with Japan's Osaka, who came out on top in their tempestuous 2018 US Open title match. "Definitely think this is the best match I have played this tournament, for sure," said the 10th seed. "Obviously I had to, going up against the number two in the world, so I knew I had to do better." (With AFP inputs)

Racquet-smashing Novak Djokovic defeats Alexander Zverev to book semi-final spot

Indian pacers Mohammed Shami and Navdeep Saini are likely to join the Indian squad from the third Test in England, scheduled to be hosted by Ahmedabad from February 24. Both Shami and Saini were out of the Indian squad for the first two Tests due to injuries but have now recovered.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Indian selectors are all set to announce the squad for the last two Tests against England soon and could also announce the team for the five-match T20I series that follows the longest format of the game, according to a report in TOI.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Shami had returned to India after fracturing his right arm during the first Test in Adelaide while Saini injured his groin in the final Test in Brisbane.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“Saini is currently at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru. He has bowling at full tilt. The Delhi selectors wanted to have his services for the Vijay Hazare Trophy but Saini was asked to stay back at NCA as he is likely to join the team in Ahmedabad,” a BCCI source told TOI.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indians-never-crib-about-overseas-conditions-r-ashwin-shuts-down-chennai-pitch-critics-364029" hreflang="en">Indians never crib about overseas conditions: R Ashwin shuts down Chennai pitch critics</a>

Shami had resumed bowling a week ago and is nearing full fitness whereas Umesh Yadav has started bowling at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru after recovering from a calf injury. According to the report in TOI, the Indian team management is keen on keeping Saini fresh for the T20I&nbsp;series.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The report adds that Rishabh Pant is also likely to return to the Indian limited-overs squad after his great run of form in Test cricket whereas Suryakumar Yadav could be added to the T20I squad.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The BCCI is also keen on making an "A" pool ahead of the T20I World Cup, scheduled to be hosted by India later in the year with the likes of Nitish Rana, Ishan Kishan and Siddharth Kaul in the fray.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-ms-dhoni-to-yuvraj-singh-costliest-picks-in-every-ipl-auctions-364071" hreflang="en">From MS Dhoni to Yuvraj Singh: Costliest picks in every IPL auctions</a>

“This is the reason they were asked to report NCA for fitness tests. These players have been informed that they will be in standbys for the India T20I team. This is the reason why Rana wasn’t made the captain of the Delhi team for the Vijay Hazare tournament. These players could be called into Indian team anytime. They will be essentially appearing for trials,” the BCCI source added as quoted by TOI.&nbsp;

Indian pacers Mohammed Shami and Navdeep Saini are likely to join the Indian squad from the third Test in England, scheduled to be hosted by Ahmedabad from February 24.

Indian pacers Mohammed Shami and Navdeep Saini are likely to join the Indian squad from the third Test in England, scheduled to be hosted by Ahmedabad from February 24. Both Shami and Saini were out of the Indian squad for the first two Tests due to injuries but have now recovered. The Indian selectors are all set to announce the squad for the last two Tests against England soon and could also announce the team for the five-match T20I series that follows the longest format of the game, according to a report in TOI. Shami had returned to India after fracturing his right arm during the first Test in Adelaide while Saini injured his groin in the final Test in Brisbane. “Saini is currently at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru. He has bowling at full tilt. The Delhi selectors wanted to have his services for the Vijay Hazare Trophy but Saini was asked to stay back at NCA as he is likely to join the team in Ahmedabad,” a BCCI source told TOI. ALSO READ: Indians never crib about overseas conditions: R Ashwin shuts down Chennai pitch critics Shami had resumed bowling a week ago and is nearing full fitness whereas Umesh Yadav has started bowling at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru after recovering from a calf injury. According to the report in TOI, the Indian team management is keen on keeping Saini fresh for the T20I series. The report adds that Rishabh Pant is also likely to return to the Indian limited-overs squad after his great run of form in Test cricket whereas Suryakumar Yadav could be added to the T20I squad. The BCCI is also keen on making an "A" pool ahead of the T20I World Cup, scheduled to be hosted by India later in the year with the likes of Nitish Rana, Ishan Kishan and Siddharth Kaul in the fray. ALSO READ: From MS Dhoni to Yuvraj Singh: Costliest picks in every IPL auctions “This is the reason they were asked to report NCA for fitness tests. These players have been informed that they will be in standbys for the India T20I team. This is the reason why Rana wasn’t made the captain of the Delhi team for the Vijay Hazare tournament. These players could be called into Indian team anytime. They will be essentially appearing for trials,” the BCCI source added as quoted by TOI.

Mohammed Shami, Navdeep Saini likely to join Indian team for 3rd Test vs England

Austrian defender David Alaba on Tuesday confirmed that he will leave Bayern Munich at the end of 2020-21 season after spending 13 years with the German giants. Alaba has been at the heart of Bayern Munich&nbsp;defence&nbsp;for over a decade while playing in various positions such as left-back and central defender.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Alaba said that he will leave Allianz Arena following the expiry of his contract as he looks forward to a new challenge. Many European clubs are interested in Alaba's services with the likes of Real Madrid, Liverpool, Chelsea among others in the hunt for the Austrian veteran.&nbsp;

Alaba, a two-time UEFA Champions League winner with Bayern Munich, said that it wasn't an easy decision to leave Bayern while adding he has made no decision as to which club he will join in the summer.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/new-tokyo-2020-chief-needs-deep-understanding-of-gender-equality-organisers-364037" hreflang="en">New Tokyo 2020 chief needs deep understanding of gender equality: Organisers</a>

"I have made the decision to leave FC Bayern at the end of this season and try something new. It obviously wasn't an easy decision - I've been here for 13 years and the club means a lot to me,” Alaba said on Tuesday.&nbsp;

“First of all, I haven’t decided which club I’m going to join yet," he added.&nbsp;

"This lies in the future and we will see.”&nbsp;

Spanish giants Real Madrid are reportedly leading the race to sign Alaba with at least five clubs in the fray to sign the defender.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/long-way-to-go-chelsea-boss-thomas-tuchel-despite-strong-start-363956" hreflang="en">'Long way to go': Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel despite strong start</a>

When asked who fought for him to stay at Bayern Munich, Alaba said:&nbsp;"Everyone, absolutely everyone. I'm really thankful for that and that's why it made this such a hard decision. I can call FC Bayern my family."&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Bayern Munich have already confirmed that they have signed Dayot Upamecano with the&nbsp;RB Leipzig defender set to join the club after the end of ongoing season.

Austrian defender David Alaba on Tuesday confirmed that he will leave Bayern Munich at the end of 2020-21 season after spending 13 years with the German giants. Alaba has been at the heart of Bayern Munich defence for over a decade while playing in various positions such as left-back and central defender.

Austrian defender David Alaba on Tuesday confirmed that he will leave Bayern Munich at the end of 2020-21 season after spending 13 years with the German giants. Alaba has been at the heart of Bayern Munich defence for over a decade while playing in various positions such as left-back and central defender. Alaba said that he will leave Allianz Arena following the expiry of his contract as he looks forward to a new challenge. Many European clubs are interested in Alaba's services with the likes of Real Madrid, Liverpool, Chelsea among others in the hunt for the Austrian veteran. Alaba, a two-time UEFA Champions League winner with Bayern Munich, said that it wasn't an easy decision to leave Bayern while adding he has made no decision as to which club he will join in the summer. ALSO READ: New Tokyo 2020 chief needs deep understanding of gender equality: Organisers "I have made the decision to leave FC Bayern at the end of this season and try something new. It obviously wasn't an easy decision - I've been here for 13 years and the club means a lot to me,” Alaba said on Tuesday. “First of all, I haven’t decided which club I’m going to join yet," he added. "This lies in the future and we will see.” Spanish giants Real Madrid are reportedly leading the race to sign Alaba with at least five clubs in the fray to sign the defender. ALSO READ: 'Long way to go': Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel despite strong start When asked who fought for him to stay at Bayern Munich, Alaba said: "Everyone, absolutely everyone. I'm really thankful for that and that's why it made this such a hard decision. I can call FC Bayern my family." Meanwhile, Bayern Munich have already confirmed that they have signed Dayot Upamecano with the RB Leipzig defender set to join the club after the end of ongoing season.

David Alaba confirms he will leave Bayern Munich at the end of season

The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) on Tuesday announced a 17-member squad for the third Test against India, scheduled to be played at the Sardar Patel Stadium in Ahmedabad from February 24.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Moeen Ali will miss the last two Tests against India with the English&nbsp;all-rounders&nbsp;set to return to England for a break whereas wicket-keeper Jonny Bairstow and pacer Mark Wood join the squad after being rested for the first two Tests.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

The third Test in Ahmedabad is set to be a pink-ball Test and English seamers would be upbeat about their chances under the lights. The introduction of Mark Wood can be pivotal to England's chances of doing well against India after getting hammered in the second Test in Chennai.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Even speedster Jofra Archer, who missed the second Test due to an elbow injury, is also expected to return to the playing XI along with veteran pacer James Anderson, who was rested in the second Test.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indians-never-crib-about-overseas-conditions-r-ashwin-shuts-down-chennai-pitch-critics-364029" hreflang="en">Indians never crib about overseas conditions: R Ashwin shuts down Chennai pitch critics</a>

<h2 lang="EN-US" paraeid="{872a8690-8c59-488c-9520-273439f882f9}{224}" paraid="1178146138" >England squad for Third Test:</h2>

Joe Root (c), James Anderson, Jofra Archer, Jonny Bairstow, Dominic Bess, Stuart Broad, Rory Burns, Zak Crawley, Ben Foakes, Dan Lawrence, Jack Leach, Ollie Pope, Dom Sibley, Ben Stokes, Olly Stone, Chris&nbsp;Woakes, Mark Wood.&nbsp;

After the 317-run hammering in the second Test against India, England skipper Joe Root said: "Credit to India, they outplayed us in all three departments. It has been an education for us, you could come up with conditions like these and we have to learn from this and find a way to score runs. We need to learn to build pressure and bowl six balls at one batsman.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-world-test-championship-india-jump-to-2nd-place-after-chennai-test-win-check-updated-points-table-364014" hreflang="en">ICC World Test Championship: India jump to 2nd place after Chennai Test win - Check updated points table</a>

"On day one we could have been a bit tighter, squeeze the game a bit more and make it harder for them to score. From day two it was a very difficult wicket to bat on. But we have got to be smarter about how we're building an innings. We are 1-1 and we are excited about the next two games given the way we played in the first game."&nbsp;

The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) on Tuesday announced a 17-member squad for the third Test against India, scheduled to be played at the Sardar Patel Stadium in Ahmedabad from February 24.

The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) on Tuesday announced a 17-member squad for the third Test against India, scheduled to be played at the Sardar Patel Stadium in Ahmedabad from February 24. Moeen Ali will miss the last two Tests against India with the English all-rounders set to return to England for a break whereas wicket-keeper Jonny Bairstow and pacer Mark Wood join the squad after being rested for the first two Tests. The third Test in Ahmedabad is set to be a pink-ball Test and English seamers would be upbeat about their chances under the lights. The introduction of Mark Wood can be pivotal to England's chances of doing well against India after getting hammered in the second Test in Chennai. Even speedster Jofra Archer, who missed the second Test due to an elbow injury, is also expected to return to the playing XI along with veteran pacer James Anderson, who was rested in the second Test. ALSO READ: Indians never crib about overseas conditions: R Ashwin shuts down Chennai pitch critics England squad for Third Test: Joe Root (c), James Anderson, Jofra Archer, Jonny Bairstow, Dominic Bess, Stuart Broad, Rory Burns, Zak Crawley, Ben Foakes, Dan Lawrence, Jack Leach, Ollie Pope, Dom Sibley, Ben Stokes, Olly Stone, Chris Woakes, Mark Wood. After the 317-run hammering in the second Test against India, England skipper Joe Root said: "Credit to India, they outplayed us in all three departments. It has been an education for us, you could come up with conditions like these and we have to learn from this and find a way to score runs. We need to learn to build pressure and bowl six balls at one batsman. ALSO READ: ICC World Test Championship: India jump to 2nd place after Chennai Test win - Check updated points table "On day one we could have been a bit tighter, squeeze the game a bit more and make it harder for them to score. From day two it was a very difficult wicket to bat on. But we have got to be smarter about how we're building an innings. We are 1-1 and we are excited about the next two games given the way we played in the first game."

Bairstow, Wood IN, Moeen Ali OUT as England announce squad for 3rd Test vs India

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