India's cricketers were hailed as &nbsp;'Immortals' on Wednesday following their record-breaking win in Brisbane, but some former greats called for chastened Australia to make changes.

India thrillingly achieved their 328 target with just 18 balls left on the final day to win the four-Test series 2-1, the highest successful run chase at Australia's "Fortress Gabba", where the hosts had been unbeaten for 32 years.

"It was the day when The Irrepressibles became The Immortals," declared News Corp's veteran cricket writer Robert Craddock.

"The day when Fortress Gabba was stormed by a group of cavalier raiders who kicked down the draw bridge, stole the crown jewels and raced off into the late afternoon sunshine towards hysterical fans who will cherish the memory forever.

"Take it all India. You deserve it."

India's refusal to play for a draw, which would have been enough for them to retain the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, was lauded.

"The outcome was a revelation: Australia pressed for victory because they had to, India because they wanted to, and the result was a fitting climax to one of the most extraordinary series of all time," wrote Gideon Haigh in The Australian newspaper.

<h2>- 'Huge fallout' -</h2>

Most were united in their praise of India, but there was also criticism of Australia.

"I think there'll be a huge fallout from this," said leg-spinning great Shane Warne, commentating on TV, noting that India had been without their entire frontline bowling attack through injury.

"There's not too many times that you lose to the second or third side," he said.

"Tactics will come into question. Bowlers will come into question. People's spots in the team will come into question."

Mitchell Starc, who bowled 16 wicketless overs for 75 on the final day, came in for particular criticism after taking just 11 wickets in the series, with some saying captain Tim Paine had lost faith in the left-arm paceman.

"I know that your impact bowlers are meant to come in and have a little burst, but there just doesn't seem to have been the trust that Mitchell Starc's going to do the job," said former Australian wicketkeeper Adam Gilchrist.

Former Australian captain Mark Taylor said: "You can have Starc when he's bowling at his best, but I think we need some subtlety in our bowling.&nbsp;

"We need someone who can swing the ball a bit, someone who can ask questions around lbw or bowled, not always looking to bounce batsmen out or get them caught behind," Taylor said.

Australia should look to bowlers such as the South Australian fast-medium pair Chadd Sayers and Daniel Worrall, who would add something different to the current three-pronged pace attack, said Taylor.

"There's a lot of talk about Australia not being aggressive enough, but I don't agree with that," Taylor said. "I think we need to find some subtlety in our bowling attack."

Some said that Australia should be thanking India for their skill and courage in coming to play the series at all during a global coronavirus pandemic.

"We mightn't be thanking you in five years when you're still whisking away matches from under our noses, but thanks for now, and take a bow," said the Sydney Morning Herald's Greg Baum.

"By series end, few Australians would have begrudged you whatever spoils you took home."

India's cricketers were hailed as 'Immortals' on Wednesday following their record-breaking win in Brisbane, but some former greats called for chastened Australia to make changes.

India's cricketers were hailed as 'Immortals' on Wednesday following their record-breaking win in Brisbane, but some former greats called for chastened Australia to make changes. India thrillingly achieved their 328 target with just 18 balls left on the final day to win the four-Test series 2-1, the highest successful run chase at Australia's "Fortress Gabba", where the hosts had been unbeaten for 32 years. "It was the day when The Irrepressibles became The Immortals," declared News Corp's veteran cricket writer Robert Craddock. "The day when Fortress Gabba was stormed by a group of cavalier raiders who kicked down the draw bridge, stole the crown jewels and raced off into the late afternoon sunshine towards hysterical fans who will cherish the memory forever. "Take it all India. You deserve it." India's refusal to play for a draw, which would have been enough for them to retain the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, was lauded. "The outcome was a revelation: Australia pressed for victory because they had to, India because they wanted to, and the result was a fitting climax to one of the most extraordinary series of all time," wrote Gideon Haigh in The Australian newspaper. - 'Huge fallout' - Most were united in their praise of India, but there was also criticism of Australia. "I think there'll be a huge fallout from this," said leg-spinning great Shane Warne, commentating on TV, noting that India had been without their entire frontline bowling attack through injury. "There's not too many times that you lose to the second or third side," he said. "Tactics will come into question. Bowlers will come into question. People's spots in the team will come into question." Mitchell Starc, who bowled 16 wicketless overs for 75 on the final day, came in for particular criticism after taking just 11 wickets in the series, with some saying captain Tim Paine had lost faith in the left-arm paceman. "I know that your impact bowlers are meant to come in and have a little burst, but there just doesn't seem to have been the trust that Mitchell Starc's going to do the job," said former Australian wicketkeeper Adam Gilchrist. Former Australian captain Mark Taylor said: "You can have Starc when he's bowling at his best, but I think we need some subtlety in our bowling. "We need someone who can swing the ball a bit, someone who can ask questions around lbw or bowled, not always looking to bounce batsmen out or get them caught behind," Taylor said. Australia should look to bowlers such as the South Australian fast-medium pair Chadd Sayers and Daniel Worrall, who would add something different to the current three-pronged pace attack, said Taylor. "There's a lot of talk about Australia not being aggressive enough, but I don't agree with that," Taylor said. "I think we need to find some subtlety in our bowling attack." Some said that Australia should be thanking India for their skill and courage in coming to play the series at all during a global coronavirus pandemic. "We mightn't be thanking you in five years when you're still whisking away matches from under our noses, but thanks for now, and take a bow," said the Sydney Morning Herald's Greg Baum. "By series end, few Australians would have begrudged you whatever spoils you took home."

India hailed as 'Immortals', Australia under fire after Gabba stunner

The Premier League are set to investigate the "agreement" between West Ham and West Bromwich Albion which prevented Baggies midfielder Robert Snodgrass from playing against his old club, according to reports on Tuesday.

Snodgrass joined West Brom from the Hammers recently and made his debut for the Premier League strugglers in their 3-2 win at Wolves on Saturday.

But it emerged prior to kick-off at the London Stadium that West Ham and Albion had agreed that the 33-year-old would not face his former side.

West Brom boss Sam Allardyce told BT Sport before the match: "That was an agreement between the clubs that this game he would not be allowed to play. We could only get the deal done with that agreement."

Snodgrass watched from the stands as West Ham won 2-1, but Premier League rules state that "no club shall enter into a contract which enables any other party to that contract to acquire the ability materially to influence its policies or the performance of its teams in league matches".

Allardyce was more cautious when asked about the agreement again during his post-match press conference.&nbsp;

"I can't answer that," he said. "I'll have to wait and see before I answer anything that might cause me, West Ham or anybody else any trouble, I'll wait to see what the Premier League say.

"I've got bigger things to worry about than what the Premier League thinks. The players played their best today. Whether Robert Snodgrass played or not it wouldn't have had any hand in the two goals we conceded today."

West Ham manager David Moyes added: "I don't think it is any of my business. I am not sure it is any of yours, to be honest. The Premier League have to do what they have to do.

"Robert Snodgrass is a very good player, we will miss him a lot. We sent him with our best wishes, we did not take any fee for him because we have so much respect for him and what he has done here."

The Premier League are set to investigate the "agreement" between West Ham and West Bromwich Albion which prevented Baggies midfielder Robert Snodgrass from playing against his old club, according to reports on Tuesday.

The Premier League are set to investigate the "agreement" between West Ham and West Bromwich Albion which prevented Baggies midfielder Robert Snodgrass from playing against his old club, according to reports on Tuesday. Snodgrass joined West Brom from the Hammers recently and made his debut for the Premier League strugglers in their 3-2 win at Wolves on Saturday. But it emerged prior to kick-off at the London Stadium that West Ham and Albion had agreed that the 33-year-old would not face his former side. West Brom boss Sam Allardyce told BT Sport before the match: "That was an agreement between the clubs that this game he would not be allowed to play. We could only get the deal done with that agreement." Snodgrass watched from the stands as West Ham won 2-1, but Premier League rules state that "no club shall enter into a contract which enables any other party to that contract to acquire the ability materially to influence its policies or the performance of its teams in league matches". Allardyce was more cautious when asked about the agreement again during his post-match press conference. "I can't answer that," he said. "I'll have to wait and see before I answer anything that might cause me, West Ham or anybody else any trouble, I'll wait to see what the Premier League say. "I've got bigger things to worry about than what the Premier League thinks. The players played their best today. Whether Robert Snodgrass played or not it wouldn't have had any hand in the two goals we conceded today." West Ham manager David Moyes added: "I don't think it is any of my business. I am not sure it is any of yours, to be honest. The Premier League have to do what they have to do. "Robert Snodgrass is a very good player, we will miss him a lot. We sent him with our best wishes, we did not take any fee for him because we have so much respect for him and what he has done here."

Premier League set to probe Snodgrass 'agreement': reports

Frank Lampard criticised the attitude of some of his Chelsea players after admitting the Blues were easily beaten by the "better side" in a 2-0 defeat to Leicester on Tuesday.

Victory took the Foxes top of the Premier League, nine points clear of Chelsea, who slip to eighth.

A fifth defeat in eight league games piles more pressure on Lampard's position as a £220 million ($300 million) spending spree in the transfer market has failed to reap instant reward.

"We were beaten by the better team," said Lampard.

"I thought they were sharper than us, ran more than us, showed moments of quality. They looked like a team in form and we looked like a team out of form."

First-half goals from Wilfried Ndidi and James Maddison put Leicester in a commanding position and Brendan Rodgers's men could have inflicted a more embarrassing scoreline on Lampard had they taken their chances after the break.

The former England midfielder left two of his expensive recruits Timo Werner and Hakim Ziyech on the bench, while club record signing Kai Havertz was substituted after another ineffectual performance.

"We were asleep in moments. I felt like there were quite a lot of moments in the first half where our sharpness wasn't there," added Lampard.

"The basics and bare minimums are to run, sprint and cover ground, and too many of our players didn't do it."

After Chelsea's previous Premier League defeat at home to Manchester City, reports emerged that the club were already looking at potential successors to Lampard.

Frank Lampard criticised the attitude of some of his Chelsea players after admitting the Blues were easily beaten by the "better side" in a 2-0 defeat to Leicester on Tuesday.

Frank Lampard criticised the attitude of some of his Chelsea players after admitting the Blues were easily beaten by the "better side" in a 2-0 defeat to Leicester on Tuesday. Victory took the Foxes top of the Premier League, nine points clear of Chelsea, who slip to eighth. A fifth defeat in eight league games piles more pressure on Lampard's position as a £220 million ($300 million) spending spree in the transfer market has failed to reap instant reward. "We were beaten by the better team," said Lampard. "I thought they were sharper than us, ran more than us, showed moments of quality. They looked like a team in form and we looked like a team out of form." First-half goals from Wilfried Ndidi and James Maddison put Leicester in a commanding position and Brendan Rodgers's men could have inflicted a more embarrassing scoreline on Lampard had they taken their chances after the break. The former England midfielder left two of his expensive recruits Timo Werner and Hakim Ziyech on the bench, while club record signing Kai Havertz was substituted after another ineffectual performance. "We were asleep in moments. I felt like there were quite a lot of moments in the first half where our sharpness wasn't there," added Lampard. "The basics and bare minimums are to run, sprint and cover ground, and too many of our players didn't do it." After Chelsea's previous Premier League defeat at home to Manchester City, reports emerged that the club were already looking at potential successors to Lampard.

Lampard questions Chelsea players' desire after Leicester defeat

While India scripted history by winning the Test series against Australia following the historic victory at the Gabba in Brisbane, there was an Australian fan whose video while chanting "Bharat Mata Ki Jai” and "Vande Mataram" is going viral on social media.&nbsp;

In the viral video, the Aussie fan is seen facing the Indian supporters at the Gabba in Brisbane and chanting for Team India. The video caught the attention of social media users quickly as fans and netizens&nbsp;expressed their delight.&nbsp;

The video of the Aussie fans is from Day 4 of the Gabba Test which was hampered a bit by rain. During the rain break, the fan was seen chanting "Bharat Mata Ki Jay" and "Vande Mataram" as section of Indian supporters enjoyed his passion.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kevin-pietersen-warns-team-india-ahead-of-england-series-357913" hreflang="en">Kevin Pietersen warns Team India ahead of England series</a>

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An Australian fan😎<a href="https://t.co/ZCM6J9n28X">pic.twitter.com/ZCM6J9n28X</a>
— Namrata Wakhloo (@NamrataWakhloo) <a href="https://twitter.com/NamrataWakhloo/status/1351439485922209796?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 19, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<h2>Fortress Gabba breached by Indians</h2>

India went on to script one of the greatest Test series win on Australian soil as the Ajinkya Rahane-led outfit, despite injuries to many key players, defeated Australia by three wickets at the Gabba to win the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2-1. Not only the inexperienced Indian side won the Test series, they also ended Australia's 32-year-old unbeaten streak at the 'fortress' Gabba.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-test-rankings-rishabh-pant-joe-root-touch-new-high-after-epic-shows-357905" hreflang="en">ICC Test Rankings: Rishabh Pant, Joe Root touch new high after epic shows</a>

Even Australian coach Justin Langer tipped his hat off to the Indian team as the former Aussie opener said that India&nbsp;deserve&nbsp;full credit for defeating Australia in the series.&nbsp;

"It was an incredible Test series and in the&nbsp;end&nbsp;there is always a winner or a loser. Today Test cricket is the winner. It's&nbsp;gonna&nbsp;hurt us big time. India deserved full credit. They have been outstanding but we have learnt lessons from it," Langer told Channel 7.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"First, you can never take anything for granted, second never ever, ever underestimate the Indians. There are 1.5&nbsp;billion&nbsp;Indians and if you play in that first eleven you got to be really tough, don't you?"&nbsp;

India's next&nbsp;assignment&nbsp;will be a full-fledged home series against England starting from February 5.&nbsp;

While India scripted history by winning the Test series against Australia following the historic victory at the Gabba in Brisbane, there was an Australian fan whose video while chanting "Bharat Mata Ki Jai” and "Vande Mataram" is going viral on social media.

While India scripted history by winning the Test series against Australia following the historic victory at the Gabba in Brisbane, there was an Australian fan whose video while chanting "Bharat Mata Ki Jai” and "Vande Mataram" is going viral on social media. In the viral video, the Aussie fan is seen facing the Indian supporters at the Gabba in Brisbane and chanting for Team India. The video caught the attention of social media users quickly as fans and netizens expressed their delight. The video of the Aussie fans is from Day 4 of the Gabba Test which was hampered a bit by rain. During the rain break, the fan was seen chanting "Bharat Mata Ki Jay" and "Vande Mataram" as section of Indian supporters enjoyed his passion. ALSO READ: Kevin Pietersen warns Team India ahead of England series An Australian fan😎pic.twitter.com/ZCM6J9n28X — Namrata Wakhloo (@NamrataWakhloo) January 19, 2021 × Fortress Gabba breached by Indians India went on to script one of the greatest Test series win on Australian soil as the Ajinkya Rahane-led outfit, despite injuries to many key players, defeated Australia by three wickets at the Gabba to win the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2-1. Not only the inexperienced Indian side won the Test series, they also ended Australia's 32-year-old unbeaten streak at the 'fortress' Gabba. ALSO READ: ICC Test Rankings: Rishabh Pant, Joe Root touch new high after epic shows Even Australian coach Justin Langer tipped his hat off to the Indian team as the former Aussie opener said that India deserve full credit for defeating Australia in the series. "It was an incredible Test series and in the end there is always a winner or a loser. Today Test cricket is the winner. It's gonna hurt us big time. India deserved full credit. They have been outstanding but we have learnt lessons from it," Langer told Channel 7. "First, you can never take anything for granted, second never ever, ever underestimate the Indians. There are 1.5 billion Indians and if you play in that first eleven you got to be really tough, don't you?" India's next assignment will be a full-fledged home series against England starting from February 5.

Watch: Australian fan chants 'Vande Mataram' during Gabba Test, video goes viral

Novak Djokovic on Wednesday lashed out at the criticism of his letter to Australian Open chief Craig Tiley in which the Serb suggested easing of COVID-19 quarantine restriction as&nbsp;the world number one tennis star said his intentions were "misconstrued”.&nbsp;&nbsp;

A total of 72 players have been confined to their hotel rooms for 14 days and are unable to train for the Grand Slam which is scheduled to be held from February 8-21. The move to quarantine the players come after passengers on three charter flights&nbsp;carrying&nbsp;them&nbsp;to Melbourne tested positive for coronavirus.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Djokovic, according to reports, asked Tiley for reduced isolation periods while moving players in hard quarantine to&nbsp;"private houses with tennis courts". The development received staunch criticism from Australians.&nbsp;

However, Tiley confirmed that they were suggestions and not demands by Djokovic.&nbsp;

"My good intentions for my fellow competitors in Melbourne have been misconstrued as being selfish, difficult and ungrateful,"&nbsp;Djokovic&nbsp;who is isolating in Adelaide along with other top players, said in a lengthy statement.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/two-players-test-positive-in-new-australian-open-blow-357802" hreflang="en">Two players test positive in new Australian Open blow</a>&nbsp;

"This couldn't be farther from the truth.&nbsp;

"... at times when I see the aftermath of things, I do tend to ask myself if I should just sit back and enjoy my benefits instead of paying attention to other people's struggles."&nbsp;

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Tennis coach Daniel&nbsp;Vallverdy&nbsp;told Reuters that players in hard quarantine should get prime practice times and matches scheduled in cooler hours of the matchday.&nbsp;

Former Australian tennis player Sam Groth had accused Djokovic's letter as a&nbsp;"selfish political move" while&nbsp;Aussie tennis star&nbsp;Nick Kyrgios called the Serbian a "tool".&nbsp;

&nbsp;"I've earned my privileges the hard way... it is very difficult for me to be a mere onlooker knowing how much every help, gesture, and good word mattered to me when I was small and insignificant in the world pecking order,"&nbsp;the Serbian ace&nbsp;said.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-hamilton-to-ronaldo-athletes-who-tested-positive-for-covid-19-in-2020-352776" hreflang="en">From Hamilton to Ronaldo: Athletes who tested positive for COVID-19 in 2020</a>

"Hence, I use my position of privilege to be of service as much as I can where and when needed."&nbsp;

&nbsp;Djokovic went on to express his gratitude towards the Australian government and Australian Open&nbsp;organisers&nbsp;to allow the players to participate amid the pandemic.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"Things in the media escalated and there was a general impression that the players (including myself) are ungrateful, weak and selfish because of their unpleasant feelings in quarantine," he added.&nbsp;

"I am very sorry that it has come to that because I do know how grateful many are. We all came to Australia to compete. Not being able to train and prepare before the tournament starts is really not easy.&nbsp;

"None of us ever questioned 14 days of quarantine despite what is being said by media outlets."&nbsp;

Novak Djokovic on Wednesday lashed out at the criticism of his letter to Australian Open chief Craig Tiley in which the Serb suggested easing of COVID-19 quarantine restriction as the world number one tennis star said his intentions were "misconstrued”.

Novak Djokovic on Wednesday lashed out at the criticism of his letter to Australian Open chief Craig Tiley in which the Serb suggested easing of COVID-19 quarantine restriction as the world number one tennis star said his intentions were "misconstrued”. A total of 72 players have been confined to their hotel rooms for 14 days and are unable to train for the Grand Slam which is scheduled to be held from February 8-21. The move to quarantine the players come after passengers on three charter flights carrying them to Melbourne tested positive for coronavirus. Djokovic, according to reports, asked Tiley for reduced isolation periods while moving players in hard quarantine to "private houses with tennis courts". The development received staunch criticism from Australians. However, Tiley confirmed that they were suggestions and not demands by Djokovic. "My good intentions for my fellow competitors in Melbourne have been misconstrued as being selfish, difficult and ungrateful," Djokovic who is isolating in Adelaide along with other top players, said in a lengthy statement. ALSO READ: Two players test positive in new Australian Open blow "This couldn't be farther from the truth. "... at times when I see the aftermath of things, I do tend to ask myself if I should just sit back and enjoy my benefits instead of paying attention to other people's struggles." pic.twitter.com/YbGDYWL7Yf — Novak Djokovic (@DjokerNole) January 20, 2021 × Tennis coach Daniel Vallverdy told Reuters that players in hard quarantine should get prime practice times and matches scheduled in cooler hours of the matchday. Former Australian tennis player Sam Groth had accused Djokovic's letter as a "selfish political move" while Aussie tennis star Nick Kyrgios called the Serbian a "tool". "I've earned my privileges the hard way... it is very difficult for me to be a mere onlooker knowing how much every help, gesture, and good word mattered to me when I was small and insignificant in the world pecking order," the Serbian ace said. ALSO READ: From Hamilton to Ronaldo: Athletes who tested positive for COVID-19 in 2020 "Hence, I use my position of privilege to be of service as much as I can where and when needed." Djokovic went on to express his gratitude towards the Australian government and Australian Open organisers to allow the players to participate amid the pandemic. "Things in the media escalated and there was a general impression that the players (including myself) are ungrateful, weak and selfish because of their unpleasant feelings in quarantine," he added. "I am very sorry that it has come to that because I do know how grateful many are. We all came to Australia to compete. Not being able to train and prepare before the tournament starts is really not easy. "None of us ever questioned 14 days of quarantine despite what is being said by media outlets."

Novak Djokovic lashes out at critics over Australian Open quarantine stance

Paris Saint-Germain manager Mauricio Pochettino has reacted to PSG sporting director Leonardo's public interest on Barcelona megastar Lionel Messi,&nbsp;whose contract expires at the end of ongoing 2020-21 season.&nbsp;

While Pochettino played his cards close to his chest when asked over a potential move for Messi, the former Tottenham Hotspur boss said that "everyone dreams of having the best players with him."&nbsp;

Some of the media reports have stated that Messi could be&nbsp;reunited&nbsp;with former Barcelona teammate Neymar at the Parc des Princes.&nbsp;

"Everyone dreams of having the best players with him," Pochettino told Cadena Ser late on Tuesday.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-messi-to-ramos-football-stars-who-run-out-of-contracts-in-2021-356962" hreflang="en">From Messi to Ramos: Football stars who run out of contracts in 2021</a>

"I have huge respect for the players I have in my team but I must also have respect for players in other teams," the former Tottenham boss, who replaced Thomas Tuchel at the Parc des Princes at the start of this month, added.&nbsp;

Despite moving away from expressing public interest on Messi,&nbsp;Pochettinho&nbsp;said that he has a unique bond with Messi that existed between the two&nbsp;of them, "like love for Newell Old Boys", one of the clubs in Rosario in their homeland.&nbsp;

"Both of us have come from there, I think it's something that strongly unites us, this passion for the red and black (Newell's club&nbsp;colours)."&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/what-has-gone-wrong-in-liverpools-title-defence-357895" hreflang="en">What has gone wrong in Liverpool's title defence?</a>

&nbsp;Pochettino's comments come after PSG sporting director Leonardo, who had recently told France Football that&nbsp;"the top players like Messi will always be on PSG's radar.&nbsp;

"But obviously now is not the time to talk nor to dream about that.&nbsp;

"Yet we are at the top table of those who are following the case closely."&nbsp;

&nbsp;However, Pochettino played down reports in Spain linking France World Cup winner Kylian Mbappe with a move to LaLiga giants Real Madrid.&nbsp;

"I've no doubt about the fact that Kylian loves being in Paris," he said&nbsp;

Paris Saint-Germain manager Mauricio Pochettino has reacted to PSG sporting director Leonardo's public interest on Barcelona megastar Lionel Messi, whose contract expires at the end of ongoing 2020-21 season.

Paris Saint-Germain manager Mauricio Pochettino has reacted to PSG sporting director Leonardo's public interest on Barcelona megastar Lionel Messi, whose contract expires at the end of ongoing 2020-21 season. While Pochettino played his cards close to his chest when asked over a potential move for Messi, the former Tottenham Hotspur boss said that "everyone dreams of having the best players with him." Some of the media reports have stated that Messi could be reunited with former Barcelona teammate Neymar at the Parc des Princes. "Everyone dreams of having the best players with him," Pochettino told Cadena Ser late on Tuesday. ALSO READ: From Messi to Ramos: Football stars who run out of contracts in 2021 "I have huge respect for the players I have in my team but I must also have respect for players in other teams," the former Tottenham boss, who replaced Thomas Tuchel at the Parc des Princes at the start of this month, added. Despite moving away from expressing public interest on Messi, Pochettinho said that he has a unique bond with Messi that existed between the two of them, "like love for Newell Old Boys", one of the clubs in Rosario in their homeland. "Both of us have come from there, I think it's something that strongly unites us, this passion for the red and black (Newell's club colours)." ALSO READ: What has gone wrong in Liverpool's title defence? Pochettino's comments come after PSG sporting director Leonardo, who had recently told France Football that "the top players like Messi will always be on PSG's radar. "But obviously now is not the time to talk nor to dream about that. "Yet we are at the top table of those who are following the case closely." However, Pochettino played down reports in Spain linking France World Cup winner Kylian Mbappe with a move to LaLiga giants Real Madrid. "I've no doubt about the fact that Kylian loves being in Paris," he said

Will PSG sign Lionel Messi? Mauricio Pochettino opens up about the move

Even though sporting activity has been hampered by the Covid-19 pandemic, MLB India has utilized the time to impart online coaching and training lessons to baseball coaches across the country. 
 
MLB, in association with India on Track (IOT) and the Amateur Baseball Federation of India (ABFI) conducted online interactive coaching sessions to over 75 participants on Saturday&nbsp;and Sunday. 
 
The Head of Baseball Development, MLB India – David Palese, is currently conducting on-field coaching clinics with three IOT-MLB coaches from Bengaluru on Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays preparing them for the weekend sessions that are broadcasted online. During the weekend, different elements of baseball such as pitching, hitting, fitness/agility and defense by position are covered. These online sessions create opportunities for participants to see how fault analysis can be done and provides an interactive opportunity from the comfort of their homes across the nation. 
 
“The online coaching and training lessons have helped the coaches in India to continue learning new aspects of baseball from their homes. The coaches have been able to enhance their knowledge about baseball and be able to implement newly acquired skills and drills to their players and teams in their home towns”&nbsp;said David Palese.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/formidable-competitors-on-field-solid-partners-off-it-pm-narendra-modi-to-australian-pm-after-test-series-triumph-357950" hreflang="en">Formidable competitors on field, solid partners off it: PM Narendra Modi to Australian PM after Test series triumph</a>&nbsp; 
 
Palese trained the three IOT-MLB coaches on the field in Gurgaon on Saturday and Sunday, where the training sessions were broadcasted to coaches across India, who dialed-in for the online interactive coaching sessions from their homes. During the Coaching Webinars on the weekends, Palese teaches the finer aspects of baseball to coaches who are willing to dial in and see it online for free of cost.&nbsp; 
 
The Head of Baseball Development, MLB India explained about the drills, techniques and philosophies of speed, agility and fitness and throwing during the online interactive coaching on Saturday, while on Sunday, he explained about the drills, techniques and philosophies of Pitching and Catching. 
 
David Palese is joined in India by Ryo Takahashi,&nbsp;who heads the business and commercial operations for MLB India. Having set up their MLB India office in New Delhi, MLB has conducted more than 320 workshops in schools across Mumbai, Delhi and Bengaluru as a part of its First Pitch Program. Over 30,000 children in the age group of 8-14 years participated actively in these sessions.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-australian-fan-chants-vande-marataram-during-gabba-test-video-goes-viral-357939" hreflang="en">Watch: Australian fan chants 'Vande Marataram' during Gabba Test, video goes viral</a> 
 
Ryo Takahashi said, “We have always believed that quality coaching is essential for baseball to grow at the grassroots, youth and eventually an elite level. The response from the coaches in India for the webinars has been terrific and a huge boost for the growth potential of baseball in India. It’s been fantastic to see many coaches register and attend these sessions every weekend.&nbsp;&nbsp;We are starting to see with our own eyes the potential that the game of baseball has in India and we are confident that we are moving in the right direction.” 
 
Commenting on this initiative, Harish Kumar, former National Indian Baseball Team Captain and present Secretary General of ABFI said,&nbsp;“MLB has taken tremendous steps to improve baseball coaching at the grassroots level since setting up its office in New Delhi in 2019. The on-field and online training sessions have been fantastic initiatives,&nbsp;which have helped the sport of baseball to grow in India even during difficult times. We are in discussion with MLB on what comes next, which we hope to implement in the upcoming year. We are really looking forward to working with MLB in more programs to improve the playing standard of baseball in India.”&nbsp;&nbsp; 
 
The Coaching Webinars for education and development of Indian baseball coaches, which began on 19 December 2020, will be carried out on every weekend until February 7.

Even though sporting activity has been hampered by the Covid-19 pandemic, MLB India has utilized the time to impart online coaching and training lessons to baseball coaches across the country.

Even though sporting activity has been hampered by the Covid-19 pandemic, MLB India has utilized the time to impart online coaching and training lessons to baseball coaches across the country. MLB, in association with India on Track (IOT) and the Amateur Baseball Federation of India (ABFI) conducted online interactive coaching sessions to over 75 participants on Saturday and Sunday. The Head of Baseball Development, MLB India – David Palese, is currently conducting on-field coaching clinics with three IOT-MLB coaches from Bengaluru on Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays preparing them for the weekend sessions that are broadcasted online. During the weekend, different elements of baseball such as pitching, hitting, fitness/agility and defense by position are covered. These online sessions create opportunities for participants to see how fault analysis can be done and provides an interactive opportunity from the comfort of their homes across the nation. “The online coaching and training lessons have helped the coaches in India to continue learning new aspects of baseball from their homes. The coaches have been able to enhance their knowledge about baseball and be able to implement newly acquired skills and drills to their players and teams in their home towns” said David Palese. ALSO READ: Formidable competitors on field, solid partners off it: PM Narendra Modi to Australian PM after Test series triumph Palese trained the three IOT-MLB coaches on the field in Gurgaon on Saturday and Sunday, where the training sessions were broadcasted to coaches across India, who dialed-in for the online interactive coaching sessions from their homes. During the Coaching Webinars on the weekends, Palese teaches the finer aspects of baseball to coaches who are willing to dial in and see it online for free of cost. The Head of Baseball Development, MLB India explained about the drills, techniques and philosophies of speed, agility and fitness and throwing during the online interactive coaching on Saturday, while on Sunday, he explained about the drills, techniques and philosophies of Pitching and Catching. David Palese is joined in India by Ryo Takahashi, who heads the business and commercial operations for MLB India. Having set up their MLB India office in New Delhi, MLB has conducted more than 320 workshops in schools across Mumbai, Delhi and Bengaluru as a part of its First Pitch Program. Over 30,000 children in the age group of 8-14 years participated actively in these sessions. ALSO READ: Watch: Australian fan chants 'Vande Marataram' during Gabba Test, video goes viral Ryo Takahashi said, “We have always believed that quality coaching is essential for baseball to grow at the grassroots, youth and eventually an elite level. The response from the coaches in India for the webinars has been terrific and a huge boost for the growth potential of baseball in India. It’s been fantastic to see many coaches register and attend these sessions every weekend. We are starting to see with our own eyes the potential that the game of baseball has in India and we are confident that we are moving in the right direction.” Commenting on this initiative, Harish Kumar, former National Indian Baseball Team Captain and present Secretary General of ABFI said, “MLB has taken tremendous steps to improve baseball coaching at the grassroots level since setting up its office in New Delhi in 2019. The on-field and online training sessions have been fantastic initiatives, which have helped the sport of baseball to grow in India even during difficult times. We are in discussion with MLB on what comes next, which we hope to implement in the upcoming year. We are really looking forward to working with MLB in more programs to improve the playing standard of baseball in India.” The Coaching Webinars for education and development of Indian baseball coaches, which began on 19 December 2020, will be carried out on every weekend until February 7.

Major League Baseball conducts baseball coaching sessions online for over 75 coaches

Replying to a congratulatory message by Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison, Indian PM Narendra Modi on Wednesday said India and Australia are formidable competitors on the field while being solid partners off it as the duo exchanged messages on social media&nbsp;platform&nbsp;Twitter after India's historic Test series triumph against the Baggy Greens.&nbsp;

Defying all the odds, Team India led by Ajinkya Rahane, defeated a full-strength Australia by three wickets at the Gabba in Brisbane to win Border-Gavaskar Trophy while ending Australia's 32-year unbeaten streak at the iconic&nbsp;venue.&nbsp;

"Congratulations&nbsp;@narendramodi and the Indian Cricket Team on a great win in the test series here in Australia. It was a&nbsp;hard fought&nbsp;contest between the game's best teams and players," Prime Minister Morrison tweeted.&nbsp;

Commiserations to Tim Paine and the Australian Men's Test Team, he said, adding, "They'll be back."&nbsp;

Replying to Prime Minister Morrison, PM Modi tweeted, "Thanks, @ScottMorrisonMP. It was a thrilling series with the best from both the teams on full display."&nbsp;

"India and Australia make for formidable competitors on the field, and solid partners off it," he said.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-australia-thanks-bcci-on-successful-tour-salutes-team-indias-courage-and-skill-357897" hreflang="en">Cricket Australia thanks BCCI on successful tour, salutes Team India's 'courage and skill'</a>

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Thanks, <a href="https://twitter.com/ScottMorrisonMP?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ScottMorrisonMP</a>. 
It was a thrilling series with the best from both the teams on full display. 
 
India and Australia make for formidable competitors on the field, and solid partners off it. <a href="https://t.co/6lndFvRP0U">https://t.co/6lndFvRP0U</a>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1351796975126118401?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 20, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Showing grit and resilience, Indian team made comeback in a sensational fashion. After going down in Adelaide, the visitors fought back in Melbourne. While the Rahane-led side drew the Sydney Test, they exceeded all the expectations after defeating Australia at their&nbsp;'fortress' Gabba.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Even Cricket Australia thanked the BCCI through an open letter as the hosts lauded Team India's 'courage and skill' in what will be remembered as one of the best Test series of all-time.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-hailed-as-immortals-australia-under-fire-after-gabba-stunner-357893" hreflang="en">India hailed as 'Immortals', Australia under fire after Gabba stunner</a>

Congratulatory messages flooded social media platforms with fans, former players, current players, pundits wishing Team India after its historic triumph Down Under.&nbsp;

India's next immediate assignment will be a full-fledged home series against England starting from February 5.&nbsp;

Replying to a congratulatory message by Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison, Indian PM Narendra Modi on Wednesday said India and Australia are formidable competitors on the field while being solid partners off it as the duo exchanged messages on social media platform Twitter after India's historic Test series triumph against the Baggy Greens.

Replying to a congratulatory message by Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison, Indian PM Narendra Modi on Wednesday said India and Australia are formidable competitors on the field while being solid partners off it as the duo exchanged messages on social media platform Twitter after India's historic Test series triumph against the Baggy Greens. Defying all the odds, Team India led by Ajinkya Rahane, defeated a full-strength Australia by three wickets at the Gabba in Brisbane to win Border-Gavaskar Trophy while ending Australia's 32-year unbeaten streak at the iconic venue. "Congratulations @narendramodi and the Indian Cricket Team on a great win in the test series here in Australia. It was a hard fought contest between the game's best teams and players," Prime Minister Morrison tweeted. Commiserations to Tim Paine and the Australian Men's Test Team, he said, adding, "They'll be back." Replying to Prime Minister Morrison, PM Modi tweeted, "Thanks, @ScottMorrisonMP. It was a thrilling series with the best from both the teams on full display." "India and Australia make for formidable competitors on the field, and solid partners off it," he said. ALSO READ: Cricket Australia thanks BCCI on successful tour, salutes Team India's 'courage and skill' Thanks, @ScottMorrisonMP. It was a thrilling series with the best from both the teams on full display. India and Australia make for formidable competitors on the field, and solid partners off it. https://t.co/6lndFvRP0U — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) January 20, 2021 × Showing grit and resilience, Indian team made comeback in a sensational fashion. After going down in Adelaide, the visitors fought back in Melbourne. While the Rahane-led side drew the Sydney Test, they exceeded all the expectations after defeating Australia at their 'fortress' Gabba. Even Cricket Australia thanked the BCCI through an open letter as the hosts lauded Team India's 'courage and skill' in what will be remembered as one of the best Test series of all-time. ALSO READ: India hailed as 'Immortals', Australia under fire after Gabba stunner Congratulatory messages flooded social media platforms with fans, former players, current players, pundits wishing Team India after its historic triumph Down Under. India's next immediate assignment will be a full-fledged home series against England starting from February 5.

Formidable competitors on field, solid partners off it: PM Narendra Modi to Australian PM after Test series triumph

Former England batsman Kevin Pietersen has fired a friendly warning to the Indian cricket team as the Men in Blue gear up for a full-fledged home series against England starting from February 5. Pietersen took to social media platform Twitter to&nbsp;post in Hindi language as he said that India must celebrate after historic series win against Australia but warned the Virat Kohli-led side that the real challenge will start when England lands in India for the series.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The former England player tweeted: “India – yeh&nbsp;aitihaasik&nbsp;jeet ka&nbsp;jashn&nbsp;manaye&nbsp;kyuki&nbsp;yeh&nbsp;sabhi&nbsp;baadhao&nbsp;ke&nbsp;khilaap&nbsp;hasil&nbsp;hui&nbsp;hai&nbsp;. LEKIN, ASLI TEAM&nbsp;toh&nbsp;kuch&nbsp;hafto&nbsp;baad&nbsp;a&nbsp;rahi&nbsp;hai&nbsp;jisse&nbsp;aapko&nbsp;harana&nbsp;hoga&nbsp;apne&nbsp;ghar&nbsp;mein&nbsp;.&nbsp;Satark&nbsp;rahe, 2&nbsp;saptaah&nbsp;mein&nbsp;bahut&nbsp;adhik&nbsp;jashn&nbsp;manaane&nbsp;se&nbsp;saavadhaan&nbsp;rahen&nbsp;(This is a historic win and you must celebrate as it has been achieved despite all obstacles. However, the real challenge comes your way in a few weeks as England are touring, and you have to beat them at home. Be careful, refrain from celebrating too much in the coming two weeks.”&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-test-rankings-rishabh-pant-joe-root-touch-new-high-after-epic-shows-357905" hreflang="en">ICC Test Rankings: Rishabh Pant, Joe Root touch new high after epic shows</a>

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India 🇮🇳 - yeh aitihaasik jeet ka jashn manaye kyuki yeh sabhi baadhao ke khilaap hasil hui hai 
 
LEKIN , ASLI TEAM 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 😉 toh kuch hafto baad a rahi hai jisse aapko harana hoga apne ghar mein . 
 
Satark rahe , 2 saptaah mein bahut adhik jashn manaane se saavadhaan rahen 😉
— Kevin Pietersen🦏 (@KP24) <a href="https://twitter.com/KP24/status/1351501549013504001?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 19, 2021</a></blockquote>
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India, despite injuries to key players, defeated Australia 2-1 in the four-Test series while also ending Australia's 32-year unbeaten streak at the Gabba after splendid show by&nbsp;Shubman&nbsp;Gill,&nbsp;Cheteshwar&nbsp;Pujara and Rishabh Pant in the second innings of the match.&nbsp;

While Indian fans are in a celebratory mood, England pose a threat in what will be their&nbsp;full-fledged tour of India starting from February.&nbsp;&nbsp;

England will play four Test, five T20Is and three ODI starting from February 5.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-australia-thanks-bcci-on-successful-tour-salutes-team-indias-courage-and-skill-357897" hreflang="en">Cricket Australia thanks BCCI on successful tour, salutes Team India's 'courage and skill'</a>

<h2 lang="EN-US" paraeid="{a76e159a-5fce-4c16-8799-e80ec05df82e}{198}" paraid="346901802" >England tour of India – Full Schedule:&nbsp;</h2>

India vs England, 1st&nbsp;Test:&nbsp;February&nbsp;5-9 in Chennai&nbsp;

India vs England, 2nd&nbsp;Test: February 13-17 in Chennai&nbsp;

India vs England, 3rd&nbsp;Test: February 24-28 in Ahmedabad&nbsp;

India vs England, 4th&nbsp;Test: March 4-8 in Ahmedabad&nbsp;

India vs England, 1st&nbsp;T20I: March 12 in Ahmedabad&nbsp;

India vs England, 2nd&nbsp;T20I: March 14 in&nbsp;Ahmedabad&nbsp;

India vs England, 3rd&nbsp;T20I: March 16 in Ahmedabad&nbsp;

India vs England, 4th&nbsp;T20I: March 18 in Ahmedabad&nbsp;

India vs England, 5th&nbsp;T20I: March 20 in Ahmedabad&nbsp;

India vs England, 1st&nbsp;ODI: March 2 in Pune&nbsp;

India vs England, 2nd&nbsp;ODI: March 26 in Pune&nbsp;

India vs England, 3rd&nbsp;ODI: March 28 in Pune&nbsp;

Former England batsman Kevin Pietersen has fired a friendly warning to the Indian cricket team as the Men in Blue gear up for a full-fledged home series against England starting from February 5.

Former England batsman Kevin Pietersen has fired a friendly warning to the Indian cricket team as the Men in Blue gear up for a full-fledged home series against England starting from February 5. Pietersen took to social media platform Twitter to post in Hindi language as he said that India must celebrate after historic series win against Australia but warned the Virat Kohli-led side that the real challenge will start when England lands in India for the series. The former England player tweeted: “India – yeh aitihaasik jeet ka jashn manaye kyuki yeh sabhi baadhao ke khilaap hasil hui hai . LEKIN, ASLI TEAM toh kuch hafto baad a rahi hai jisse aapko harana hoga apne ghar mein . Satark rahe, 2 saptaah mein bahut adhik jashn manaane se saavadhaan rahen (This is a historic win and you must celebrate as it has been achieved despite all obstacles. However, the real challenge comes your way in a few weeks as England are touring, and you have to beat them at home. Be careful, refrain from celebrating too much in the coming two weeks.” ALSO READ: ICC Test Rankings: Rishabh Pant, Joe Root touch new high after epic shows India 🇮🇳 - yeh aitihaasik jeet ka jashn manaye kyuki yeh sabhi baadhao ke khilaap hasil hui hai LEKIN , ASLI TEAM 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 😉 toh kuch hafto baad a rahi hai jisse aapko harana hoga apne ghar mein . Satark rahe , 2 saptaah mein bahut adhik jashn manaane se saavadhaan rahen 😉 — Kevin Pietersen🦏 (@KP24) January 19, 2021 × India, despite injuries to key players, defeated Australia 2-1 in the four-Test series while also ending Australia's 32-year unbeaten streak at the Gabba after splendid show by Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara and Rishabh Pant in the second innings of the match. While Indian fans are in a celebratory mood, England pose a threat in what will be their full-fledged tour of India starting from February. England will play four Test, five T20Is and three ODI starting from February 5. ALSO READ: Cricket Australia thanks BCCI on successful tour, salutes Team India's 'courage and skill' England tour of India – Full Schedule: India vs England, 1st Test: February 5-9 in Chennai India vs England, 2nd Test: February 13-17 in Chennai India vs England, 3rd Test: February 24-28 in Ahmedabad India vs England, 4th Test: March 4-8 in Ahmedabad India vs England, 1st T20I: March 12 in Ahmedabad India vs England, 2nd T20I: March 14 in Ahmedabad India vs England, 3rd T20I: March 16 in Ahmedabad India vs England, 4th T20I: March 18 in Ahmedabad India vs England, 5th T20I: March 20 in Ahmedabad India vs England, 1st ODI: March 2 in Pune India vs England, 2nd ODI: March 26 in Pune India vs England, 3rd ODI: March 28 in Pune

Kevin Pietersen warns Team India ahead of England series

England captain Joe Root and India wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant have made considerable gains in the ICC Men’s Test Player Rankings&nbsp;after their match-winning performances in the Galle and Brisbane Tests respectively.

Root, a formerly top-ranked batsman, has returned to the top five with his highest rating points tally (738) in two years after scoring a first-innings 228 to help win the first Test against Sri Lanka by seven wickets. Root has advanced six places, overtaking the likes of Pakistan’s Babar Azam and India’s Cheteshwar Pujara in the process.

Left-hander Pant’s unbeaten 89 on the last day in Brisbane that guided India to a sensational three-wicket victory over Australia, sees him attain a career-best 13th&nbsp;position to become the top-ranked wicketkeeper in the batting rankings. South Africa’s Quinton de Kock is the next wicketkeeper in the list in 15th&nbsp;position.

Performances in the classic Test in Brisbane resulted in quite a few other interesting changes as well.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-australia-thanks-bcci-on-successful-tour-salutes-team-indias-courage-and-skill-357897" hreflang="en">Cricket Australia thanks BCCI on successful tour, salutes Team India's 'courage and skill'</a>

Australia batsman Marnus Labuschagne’s first-innings century took him past Virat Kohli to third position with a career-best 878 rating points, captain Tim Paine moved up three spots to 42nd&nbsp;after scores of 50 and 27 while fast bowler Josh Hazlewood leapfrogged New Zealander Tim Southee to the fourth spot after grabbing six wickets in the match, including a haul of five for 57 in the first innings.

For India, Shubman Gill continued his upward trajectory, moving from 68th&nbsp;to 47th&nbsp;after a crucial 91 in the second innings, Pujara progressed one place to seventh position after his dogged effort and Mohammad Siraj jumped 32 places to 45th&nbsp;position after taking six wickets in the match, including a five-wicket haul in the second innings.

Debutant Washington Sundar and Shardul Thakur too had something to cheer about after useful efforts with both bat and ball. Sundar entered the rankings in 82nd&nbsp;(batting) and 97th&nbsp;(bowling) positions, while Thakur reentered the batting list in 113th&nbsp;position and the bowling list in 65th&nbsp;position.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/chennai-super-kings-release-harbhajan-singh-ahead-of-ipl-2021-mini-auction-357900" hreflang="en">Chennai Super Kings release Harbhajan Singh ahead of IPL 2021 mini-auction</a>

England spinners Jack Leach and Dominic Bess made notable progress after their five-wicket hauls in Galle. Leach’s second innings return of five for 122 lifted him three places to 40th&nbsp;while Bess’s first innings analysis of five for 30 took him from 67th&nbsp;to 50th. Jonny Bairstow (up five places to 58th&nbsp;in batting) and Sam Curran (up two places to 39th&nbsp;in bowling) also gained.

For Sri Lanka, Lahiru Thirimanne’s second innings century helped him progress 12 places to 87th&nbsp;position while left-arm spinner Lasith Embuldeniya (up six places to 47th) and medium-pace bowler Asitha Fernando (up 11 places to 96th) were the main gainers.

England captain Joe Root and India wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant have made considerable gains in the ICC Men’s Test Player Rankings after their match-winning performances in the Galle and Brisbane Tests respectively.

England captain Joe Root and India wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant have made considerable gains in the ICC Men’s Test Player Rankings after their match-winning performances in the Galle and Brisbane Tests respectively. Root, a formerly top-ranked batsman, has returned to the top five with his highest rating points tally (738) in two years after scoring a first-innings 228 to help win the first Test against Sri Lanka by seven wickets. Root has advanced six places, overtaking the likes of Pakistan’s Babar Azam and India’s Cheteshwar Pujara in the process. Left-hander Pant’s unbeaten 89 on the last day in Brisbane that guided India to a sensational three-wicket victory over Australia, sees him attain a career-best 13th position to become the top-ranked wicketkeeper in the batting rankings. South Africa’s Quinton de Kock is the next wicketkeeper in the list in 15th position. Performances in the classic Test in Brisbane resulted in quite a few other interesting changes as well. ALSO READ: Cricket Australia thanks BCCI on successful tour, salutes Team India's 'courage and skill' Australia batsman Marnus Labuschagne’s first-innings century took him past Virat Kohli to third position with a career-best 878 rating points, captain Tim Paine moved up three spots to 42nd after scores of 50 and 27 while fast bowler Josh Hazlewood leapfrogged New Zealander Tim Southee to the fourth spot after grabbing six wickets in the match, including a haul of five for 57 in the first innings. For India, Shubman Gill continued his upward trajectory, moving from 68th to 47th after a crucial 91 in the second innings, Pujara progressed one place to seventh position after his dogged effort and Mohammad Siraj jumped 32 places to 45th position after taking six wickets in the match, including a five-wicket haul in the second innings. Debutant Washington Sundar and Shardul Thakur too had something to cheer about after useful efforts with both bat and ball. Sundar entered the rankings in 82nd (batting) and 97th (bowling) positions, while Thakur reentered the batting list in 113th position and the bowling list in 65th position. ALSO READ: Chennai Super Kings release Harbhajan Singh ahead of IPL 2021 mini-auction England spinners Jack Leach and Dominic Bess made notable progress after their five-wicket hauls in Galle. Leach’s second innings return of five for 122 lifted him three places to 40th while Bess’s first innings analysis of five for 30 took him from 67th to 50th. Jonny Bairstow (up five places to 58th in batting) and Sam Curran (up two places to 39th in bowling) also gained. For Sri Lanka, Lahiru Thirimanne’s second innings century helped him progress 12 places to 87th position while left-arm spinner Lasith Embuldeniya (up six places to 47th) and medium-pace bowler Asitha Fernando (up 11 places to 96th) were the main gainers.

ICC Test Rankings: Rishabh Pant, Joe Root touch new high after epic shows

Chennai Super Kings on Wednesday released veteran spinner Harbhajan Singh from the squad ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 mini-auction. With the deadline to submit the list of retained players set for January 20, IPL franchises are set to release the list of retained and released players ahead of the mini-auction for IPL 2021.&nbsp;

Harbhajan Singh, who missed IPL 2020 in the United Arab Emirates, due to personal reasons, took to social media platform Twitter to announce the development as he thanked CSK for beautiful memories in the last couple of years. The 40-year-old went on to thank the staff, management and CSK fans for supporting him during his stay with the Yellow Army.&nbsp;

"As my contract comes to an end with @ChennaiIPL, playing for this team was great experience..beautiful memories made &amp;some great friends which I will remember fondly for years to&nbsp;come..Thank&nbsp;you @ChennaiIPL&nbsp;,&nbsp;management, staff and fans for a wonderful 2years..&nbsp;All the best..," tweeted Harbajan on Wednesday.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-australia-thanks-bcci-on-successful-tour-salutes-team-indias-courage-and-skill-357897" hreflang="en">Cricket Australia thanks BCCI on successful tour, salutes Team India's 'courage and skill'</a>

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As my contract comes to an end with <a href="https://twitter.com/ChennaiIPL?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ChennaiIPL</a>, playing for this team was a great experience..beautiful memories made &amp;some great friends which I will remember fondly for years to come..Thank you <a href="https://twitter.com/ChennaiIPL?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ChennaiIPL</a>, management, staff and fans for a wonderful 2years.. All the best..🙏
— Harbhajan Turbanator (@harbhajan_singh) <a href="https://twitter.com/harbhajan_singh/status/1351778962708389889?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 20, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Harbhajan, in IPL 2019, featured in 11 matches for Chennai Super Kings where the veteran off-spinner picked 16 wickets with an economy rate of 7.09. While he could have been a potent option with the ball at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai, the IPL franchise thought it would be of best interest to look&nbsp;towards the&nbsp;future.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-hailed-as-immortals-australia-under-fire-after-gabba-stunner-357893" hreflang="en">India hailed as 'Immortals', Australia under fire after Gabba stunner</a>

Moreover, the likes of Murali Vijay and Piyush Chawla are also likely to be released while the fate of Suresh Raina and Kedar Jadhav lies in MS Dhoni's hands with the CSK skipper expected to take a final call on the&nbsp;duo.&nbsp;

Chennai Super Kings are eyeing an overhaul ahead of IPL 2021 mini-auction after failing to reach the playoffs for the first time in their history in IPL 2019.

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Chennai Super Kings on Wednesday released veteran spinner Harbhajan Singh from the squad ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 mini-auction. With the deadline to submit the list of retained players set for January 20, IPL franchises are set to release the list of retained and released players ahead of the mini-auction for IPL 2021.

Chennai Super Kings on Wednesday released veteran spinner Harbhajan Singh from the squad ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 mini-auction. With the deadline to submit the list of retained players set for January 20, IPL franchises are set to release the list of retained and released players ahead of the mini-auction for IPL 2021. Harbhajan Singh, who missed IPL 2020 in the United Arab Emirates, due to personal reasons, took to social media platform Twitter to announce the development as he thanked CSK for beautiful memories in the last couple of years. The 40-year-old went on to thank the staff, management and CSK fans for supporting him during his stay with the Yellow Army. "As my contract comes to an end with @ChennaiIPL, playing for this team was great experience..beautiful memories made &some great friends which I will remember fondly for years to come..Thank you @ChennaiIPL , management, staff and fans for a wonderful 2years.. All the best..," tweeted Harbajan on Wednesday. ALSO READ: Cricket Australia thanks BCCI on successful tour, salutes Team India's 'courage and skill' As my contract comes to an end with @ChennaiIPL, playing for this team was a great experience..beautiful memories made &some great friends which I will remember fondly for years to come..Thank you @ChennaiIPL, management, staff and fans for a wonderful 2years.. All the best..🙏 — Harbhajan Turbanator (@harbhajan_singh) January 20, 2021 × Harbhajan, in IPL 2019, featured in 11 matches for Chennai Super Kings where the veteran off-spinner picked 16 wickets with an economy rate of 7.09. While he could have been a potent option with the ball at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai, the IPL franchise thought it would be of best interest to look towards the future. ALSO READ: India hailed as 'Immortals', Australia under fire after Gabba stunner Moreover, the likes of Murali Vijay and Piyush Chawla are also likely to be released while the fate of Suresh Raina and Kedar Jadhav lies in MS Dhoni's hands with the CSK skipper expected to take a final call on the duo. Chennai Super Kings are eyeing an overhaul ahead of IPL 2021 mini-auction after failing to reach the playoffs for the first time in their history in IPL 2019.

Chennai Super Kings release Harbhajan Singh ahead of IPL 2021 mini-auction

Rishabh Pant on Tuesday surpassed the likes of MS Dhoni, Farokh Engineer, Wriddhiman Saha among others to register a new record during the fourth and final Test against Australia at the Gabba in Brisbane. Pant smashed a cracking half-century to raise the hopes of India clinching the Border-Gavaskar Trophy and in the process became the fastest Indian wicket-keeper to register 1000 Test runs.&nbsp;

Pant touched the landmark as soon as he scored his first run in the second innings of the Brisbane Test to become the fastest among Indian wicket-keeper to score 1000 Test runs.

While Pant took just 27 Test innings to register the feat, the likes of Dhoni, Engineer and Saha took 32, 36 and 37 innings respectively.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/his-style-of-play-allows-the-bowler-tom-moody-on-cheteshwar-pujara-357528" hreflang="en">'His style of play allows the bowler..': Tom Moody on Cheteshwar Pujara</a>

Fastest Indian WK to 1000 Test runs (by innings):

<ul>
	<li>27 Rishabh Pant*</li>
	<li>32 MS Dhoni</li>
	<li>36 Farokh Engineer</li>
	<li>37 Wriddhiman Saha</li>
	<li>39 Nayan Mongia</li>
</ul>

Since Dhoni’s retirement, Pant has been touted as the next Indian wicket-keeper to take the charge across formats and the youngster has returned with some impressive numbers and knocks for the Men in Blue.

On Day 5 of the Brisbane Test, Pant has been central to India’s hopes of winning the Test and end Australia’s record of being unbeaten at the Gabba since 1988. While Pant holds an impressive record against Australia on their home soil, the last hour of the play could still bring lot of surprises on the table.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tactics-havent-been-good-enough-shane-warne-questions-tim-paine-357500" hreflang="en">'Tactics haven’t been good enough': Shane Warne questions Tim Paine</a>

Meanwhile, India still need 50 runs to win the Test whereas Australia require five wickets to seal the series. Pant and Washington Sundar were batting for India at the time this report was published.

Rishabh Pant on Tuesday surpassed the likes of MS Dhoni, Farokh Engineer, Wriddhiman Saha among others to register a new record during the fourth and final Test against Australia at the Gabba in Brisbane.

Rishabh Pant on Tuesday surpassed the likes of MS Dhoni, Farokh Engineer, Wriddhiman Saha among others to register a new record during the fourth and final Test against Australia at the Gabba in Brisbane. Pant smashed a cracking half-century to raise the hopes of India clinching the Border-Gavaskar Trophy and in the process became the fastest Indian wicket-keeper to register 1000 Test runs. Pant touched the landmark as soon as he scored his first run in the second innings of the Brisbane Test to become the fastest among Indian wicket-keeper to score 1000 Test runs. While Pant took just 27 Test innings to register the feat, the likes of Dhoni, Engineer and Saha took 32, 36 and 37 innings respectively. ALSO READ: 'His style of play allows the bowler..': Tom Moody on Cheteshwar Pujara Fastest Indian WK to 1000 Test runs (by innings): 27 Rishabh Pant* 32 MS Dhoni 36 Farokh Engineer 37 Wriddhiman Saha 39 Nayan Mongia Since Dhoni’s retirement, Pant has been touted as the next Indian wicket-keeper to take the charge across formats and the youngster has returned with some impressive numbers and knocks for the Men in Blue. On Day 5 of the Brisbane Test, Pant has been central to India’s hopes of winning the Test and end Australia’s record of being unbeaten at the Gabba since 1988. While Pant holds an impressive record against Australia on their home soil, the last hour of the play could still bring lot of surprises on the table. ALSO READ: 'Tactics haven’t been good enough': Shane Warne questions Tim Paine Meanwhile, India still need 50 runs to win the Test whereas Australia require five wickets to seal the series. Pant and Washington Sundar were batting for India at the time this report was published.

Rishabh Pant surpasses MS Dhoni to become fastest Indian wicket-keeper to register 1000 Test runs

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