All-rounder Ravindra Jadeja has been crucial for Team India. The Gujarat-based cricketer has contributed in every aspect. He has been a threat to the opposition with both, the bat and ball.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wtc-finals-jasprit-bumrah-on-the-cusp-of-breaking-kapil-devs-record-in-tests-391964" hreflang="en">WTC Final: Jasprit Bumrah on the cusp of breaking Kapil Dev's record in Tests</a>

Jadeja's batting skills have drastically increased in recent years. In the last three years, Jadeja has had an average of 55.57 in Tests. The all-rounder has smashed crucial half-centuries and centuries for Team India.&nbsp;

The all-rounder shined in the last time India took on New Zealand in an ICC event. He smashed a crucial half-century in the semifinal clash against the BlackCaps. However, it was not enough to save the match for India.&nbsp;

Jadeja is set to enter an elite list as he heads into the World Test Championship final. The all-rounder is set to become one of the few cricketers to have scored over 2000 runs and taken more than 200 wickets in the format.

Ravindra Jadeja, who already has 220 wickets in Tests, is just 46 runs away from the 2000-run mark.&nbsp;

Also, Indian pacer Jasprit Bumrah is on the cusp of breaking World Cup-winning captain Kapil's Dev long-term record of fastest to the 100-wicket mark for India in terms of pacers.&nbsp;

The 27-year-old has 83 wickets in his pocket in just 19 Test matches he played, whereas, Kapil Dev, who currently holds the record, had reached 100 test wickets in 25 matches.&nbsp;

All-rounder Ravindra Jadeja has been crucial for Team India. The Gujarat-based cricketer has contributed in every aspect. He has been a threat to the opposition with both, the bat and ball.

All-rounder Ravindra Jadeja has been crucial for Team India. The Gujarat-based cricketer has contributed in every aspect. He has been a threat to the opposition with both, the bat and ball. ALSO READ: WTC Final: Jasprit Bumrah on the cusp of breaking Kapil Dev's record in Tests Jadeja's batting skills have drastically increased in recent years. In the last three years, Jadeja has had an average of 55.57 in Tests. The all-rounder has smashed crucial half-centuries and centuries for Team India. The all-rounder shined in the last time India took on New Zealand in an ICC event. He smashed a crucial half-century in the semifinal clash against the BlackCaps. However, it was not enough to save the match for India. Jadeja is set to enter an elite list as he heads into the World Test Championship final. The all-rounder is set to become one of the few cricketers to have scored over 2000 runs and taken more than 200 wickets in the format. Ravindra Jadeja, who already has 220 wickets in Tests, is just 46 runs away from the 2000-run mark. Also, Indian pacer Jasprit Bumrah is on the cusp of breaking World Cup-winning captain Kapil's Dev long-term record of fastest to the 100-wicket mark for India in terms of pacers. The 27-year-old has 83 wickets in his pocket in just 19 Test matches he played, whereas, Kapil Dev, who currently holds the record, had reached 100 test wickets in 25 matches.

WTC final: Ravindra Jadeja just away 46 runs from entering an elite list in Test cricket

Captain Joe Root scored his second century in succession to keep England afloat on a difficult, turning wicket as they reached 252 for six in their first innings at tea on day three of the second and final test against Sri Lanka in Galle.

The tourists still trail the home side by 129 runs but the imperious Root is well set on 137 and will start the final session with a new partner after Sam Curran (13) was out on the stroke of the interval.

Root followed up his brilliant 228 in the first match with a 19th test century, the first time he has reached three figures in consecutive tests in his career.

His innings has been built around the impressive use of the sweep shot, which he has waged to take the attack to the Sri Lanka bowlers.

England resumed the day on 98 for two having lost their openers cheaply for the third time in as many innings this series.

But Jonny Bairstow never looked settled and fell on 28, an inside edge onto his pad off the dangerous home spinner Lasith Embuldeniya (5-99) looping to Oshida Fernando at short leg.

Dan Lawrence was impressive on his debut in England’s seven-wicket win in the first test but made just three as he edged Embuldeniya to Lahiru Thirimanne at slip.

At 132 for four, England were teetering, but Root and Jos Buttler (55) steadied the ship with a fifth-wicket stand of 97 before the latter tried a reverse sweep that went straight into his boot and bounced to short leg, providing a first test wicket for debutant spinner Ramesh Mendis.

Curran was out in the final over of the session, Embuldeniya taking his fifth wicket, caught at slip.

Root failed to score a test century in 2020, the first time in his career he went a calendar year without a ton, and his return to form will be welcome as England head into four tests in India right after this series.

Captain Joe Root scored his second century in succession to keep England afloat on a difficult, turning wicket as they reached 252 for six in their first innings at tea on day three of the second and final test against Sri Lanka in Galle.

Captain Joe Root scored his second century in succession to keep England afloat on a difficult, turning wicket as they reached 252 for six in their first innings at tea on day three of the second and final test against Sri Lanka in Galle. The tourists still trail the home side by 129 runs but the imperious Root is well set on 137 and will start the final session with a new partner after Sam Curran (13) was out on the stroke of the interval. Root followed up his brilliant 228 in the first match with a 19th test century, the first time he has reached three figures in consecutive tests in his career. His innings has been built around the impressive use of the sweep shot, which he has waged to take the attack to the Sri Lanka bowlers. England resumed the day on 98 for two having lost their openers cheaply for the third time in as many innings this series. But Jonny Bairstow never looked settled and fell on 28, an inside edge onto his pad off the dangerous home spinner Lasith Embuldeniya (5-99) looping to Oshida Fernando at short leg. Dan Lawrence was impressive on his debut in England’s seven-wicket win in the first test but made just three as he edged Embuldeniya to Lahiru Thirimanne at slip. At 132 for four, England were teetering, but Root and Jos Buttler (55) steadied the ship with a fifth-wicket stand of 97 before the latter tried a reverse sweep that went straight into his boot and bounced to short leg, providing a first test wicket for debutant spinner Ramesh Mendis. Curran was out in the final over of the session, Embuldeniya taking his fifth wicket, caught at slip. Root failed to score a test century in 2020, the first time in his career he went a calendar year without a ton, and his return to form will be welcome as England head into four tests in India right after this series.

England's Root notches another ton after trial by spin v Sri Lanka

India scripted history after winning the Gabba Test and breaching Australia's fortress. The visitors ended Australia's 30-year long streak in Brisbane and also sealed the series (2-1) going on top of the WTC table.&nbsp;

Former England spinner Graeme Swann congratulated India and called them "virtually unbeatable" after their historic Test triumph in Australia. He went on to say that if England manages to beat hosts India, it could be bigged that Ashes.&nbsp;

"England always saying 'well the Ashes are coming up'. Australia are not the best team in the world anymore. They used to be, by miles, ... they're not now, but we're obsessed with this," Swann told tabloid 'The Sun'.

Joe Root and Co. will be touring to India for a four-match Test series, beginning on February 5, followed by five T20 Internationals and three ODIs.

"We have to move away from looking forward to the Ashes series. I think beating India in India is a far higher thing to strive for right now. They're virtually unbeatable in India since we beat them in 2012. Why isn't that the whole thing?" he asked.

According to Swann, if England wants to be at the top in the cricketing world, they should move away from the fixation of just trying to beat Australia in away series.

He urged the young English team to learn from past mistakes and learn to take on the spin like Kevin Pietersen, who's prolific scores helped England beat India at home.&nbsp;

"Why aren't people saying 'right, this is a chance to get this team with good players of spin, use their feet, change the whole way we face spin bowling, and then we can beat India'.

"We're not going to beat India unless spinners are taking wickets and then we've got someone batting like we had with Kevin Pietersen."

Swann feels former captain Pietersen changed the way England played against spin.

"He was ultra-aggressive. Let's face it KP was a brilliant player and he batted unbelievably well there.

"We haven't done it since, we haven't learnt from how Kev batted on that trip and haven't gone on and used that as the blueprint."

(Inputs from PTI)&nbsp;

India scripted history after winning the Gabba Test and breaching Australia's fortress. The visitors ended Australia's 30-year long streak in Brisbane and also sealed the series (2-1) going on top of the WTC table.

India scripted history after winning the Gabba Test and breaching Australia's fortress. The visitors ended Australia's 30-year long streak in Brisbane and also sealed the series (2-1) going on top of the WTC table. Former England spinner Graeme Swann congratulated India and called them "virtually unbeatable" after their historic Test triumph in Australia. He went on to say that if England manages to beat hosts India, it could be bigged that Ashes. "England always saying 'well the Ashes are coming up'. Australia are not the best team in the world anymore. They used to be, by miles, ... they're not now, but we're obsessed with this," Swann told tabloid 'The Sun'. Joe Root and Co. will be touring to India for a four-match Test series, beginning on February 5, followed by five T20 Internationals and three ODIs. "We have to move away from looking forward to the Ashes series. I think beating India in India is a far higher thing to strive for right now. They're virtually unbeatable in India since we beat them in 2012. Why isn't that the whole thing?" he asked. According to Swann, if England wants to be at the top in the cricketing world, they should move away from the fixation of just trying to beat Australia in away series. He urged the young English team to learn from past mistakes and learn to take on the spin like Kevin Pietersen, who's prolific scores helped England beat India at home. "Why aren't people saying 'right, this is a chance to get this team with good players of spin, use their feet, change the whole way we face spin bowling, and then we can beat India'. "We're not going to beat India unless spinners are taking wickets and then we've got someone batting like we had with Kevin Pietersen." Swann feels former captain Pietersen changed the way England played against spin. "He was ultra-aggressive. Let's face it KP was a brilliant player and he batted unbelievably well there. "We haven't done it since, we haven't learnt from how Kev batted on that trip and haven't gone on and used that as the blueprint." (Inputs from PTI)

'Beating India in India is a far higher thing to strive': Former England spinner Graeme Swann

Australian bowlers are countering Cheteshwar Pujara`s patience with patience in the ongoing series against India with fast bowler Pat Cummins revealing that they have planned to frustrate him and the Indian batting by drying up his run-scoring even if it requires bowling 200-300 balls in an innings at him. 
 
Cummins`s spell of four for 29 in India`s first innings of the third Test on Saturday included the wicket of Pujara, who had scored three centuries on way to aggregating 521 runs at 74.5 on the previous tour in 2018-19 and had earned man of the series award. This time though, the India No. 3 has struggled and made just 113 runs in five innings so far at an average of 22.6. 
 
"You know he is going to hang around a bit. As long you are controlling the scoreboard... if we continue to keep bowling well and field tightly, we are not overly bothered," Cummins told reporters after the match. 
 
"I think we have got ahead of him in this series. For him to score runs we are going to make it as hard as possible. Whether he bats for 200, 300 balls we try and bowl good ball after good ball, challenge both sides of his bat. Fortunately it has worked so far," Cummins added. 
 
The Australia pacer, who is ranked No. 1 in the world, recalled a stage from the third day`s play on Saturday when he looked up at the scoreboard only to find to his pleasure that India have not moved. 
 
"I think at one stage he had been out there for 150 balls or so. I remember looking up at the scoreboard and saying they are still 200 runs away from our first innings total. So that fell a long away," added Cummins. 
 
Cummins`s wicket of Pujara came in the second session as the Aussie pacer bowled a back-of-the-length delivery that reared up from a wicket that was deteriorating. He says he was lucky to get the ball to jump. 
 
"For that one today, I seemed to get assistance from the pitch. It seemed to jump up a little but he is someone you know you have to bowl a lot at," added the India top-order batsman. 
 
Cummins said he was hoping at the start they don`t have a long day and was happy to see Indian bowlers bowl three days in a row. 
 
"At the start of the day, I was hoping that we don`t end the day still having to bowl. With a 200-run lead, eight wickets in hand with the wicket deteriorating quickly, it is a great result. Also getting their bowlers back on, they have now bowled three days in a row, those things all add up," added Cummins. 
 
The Aussie pace bowler added that he is bowling with a good rhythm and has great control on the ball. 
 
"It is right up there, the rhythm feels really good. It just feels like I have got pretty good control not just on where the ball is landing but I guess the seam movement as well. I feel like I have beaten them in and out a lot more than I have in the past. Hopefully this continues," he said.

Australian bowlers are countering Cheteshwar Pujara`s patience with patience in the ongoing series against India with fast bowler Pat Cummins revealing that they have planned to frustrate him and the Indian batting by drying up his run-scoring even if it requires bowling 200-300 balls in an innings at him.

Australian bowlers are countering Cheteshwar Pujara`s patience with patience in the ongoing series against India with fast bowler Pat Cummins revealing that they have planned to frustrate him and the Indian batting by drying up his run-scoring even if it requires bowling 200-300 balls in an innings at him. Cummins`s spell of four for 29 in India`s first innings of the third Test on Saturday included the wicket of Pujara, who had scored three centuries on way to aggregating 521 runs at 74.5 on the previous tour in 2018-19 and had earned man of the series award. This time though, the India No. 3 has struggled and made just 113 runs in five innings so far at an average of 22.6. "You know he is going to hang around a bit. As long you are controlling the scoreboard... if we continue to keep bowling well and field tightly, we are not overly bothered," Cummins told reporters after the match. "I think we have got ahead of him in this series. For him to score runs we are going to make it as hard as possible. Whether he bats for 200, 300 balls we try and bowl good ball after good ball, challenge both sides of his bat. Fortunately it has worked so far," Cummins added. The Australia pacer, who is ranked No. 1 in the world, recalled a stage from the third day`s play on Saturday when he looked up at the scoreboard only to find to his pleasure that India have not moved. "I think at one stage he had been out there for 150 balls or so. I remember looking up at the scoreboard and saying they are still 200 runs away from our first innings total. So that fell a long away," added Cummins. Cummins`s wicket of Pujara came in the second session as the Aussie pacer bowled a back-of-the-length delivery that reared up from a wicket that was deteriorating. He says he was lucky to get the ball to jump. "For that one today, I seemed to get assistance from the pitch. It seemed to jump up a little but he is someone you know you have to bowl a lot at," added the India top-order batsman. Cummins said he was hoping at the start they don`t have a long day and was happy to see Indian bowlers bowl three days in a row. "At the start of the day, I was hoping that we don`t end the day still having to bowl. With a 200-run lead, eight wickets in hand with the wicket deteriorating quickly, it is a great result. Also getting their bowlers back on, they have now bowled three days in a row, those things all add up," added Cummins. The Aussie pace bowler added that he is bowling with a good rhythm and has great control on the ball. "It is right up there, the rhythm feels really good. It just feels like I have got pretty good control not just on where the ball is landing but I guess the seam movement as well. I feel like I have beaten them in and out a lot more than I have in the past. Hopefully this continues," he said.

Australia reveal success mantra against Pujara: Wear out his patience

Paceman Kyle Jamieson took five for 69 as New Zealand overcame some stiff Pakistan resistance to dismiss the tourists for 297 at close of play on the opening day of the second and final test at Christchurch on Sunday. 
 
Already 1-0 up in the series and needing only a draw to rise to the top of the world rankings for the first time, the Black Caps won the toss and elected to field on what looked like a Hagley Oval track tailor-made for their attack. 
 
Pakistan had shown great fight at the end of their 101-run defeat in the first test, however, and started out as they had finished at Mount Maunganui with some batting of real intent on a day largely uninterrupted by the Christchurch rain. 
 
Azhar Ali led the way with a superb innings of 93 but there were also cameos from Mohammad Rizwan, who was again forced to stand-in as captain for the injured Babar Azam and scored 61, as well as Faheem Ashraf, who hit 48. 
 
Left-arm spinner Zafar Gohar extended the tail with a 62-ball 34 in his first test innings until he top edged a short delivery from Tim Southee just after New Zealand took the second new ball. 
 
The hosts rattled off the last two wickets in short order to bring up stumps, giving New Zealand`s openers the night to rest up before going out again to bat. 
 
Given the swing and seam in the pitch, New Zealand`s attack would have hoped to have got the job done more quickly and it looked like they would when Jamieson ripped through the Pakistan top order to reduce the tourists to 88-4 at lunch. 
 
Bowling with real venom and bounce, the 26-year-old sent back opener Abid Ali, Haris Sohail and Fawad Alam in three overs, the latter with an unplayable delivery that the batsman could only fend away from his helmet with his glove. 
 
Azhar Ali and Rizwan stalled the New Zealand attack with a partnership of 88 for the fifth wicket during which the stand-in skipper secured his fifth consecutive half century before edging a Jamieson delivery behind. 
 
Seamer Matt Henry, brought in to replace the injured Neil Wagner, finally winkled out Azhar Ali in the final session before Faheem Ashraf departed to give Jamieson his third five-wicket haul in six tests.

Paceman Kyle Jamieson took five for 69 as New Zealand overcame some stiff Pakistan resistance to dismiss the tourists for 297 at close of play on the opening day of the second and final test at Christchurch on Sunday.

Paceman Kyle Jamieson took five for 69 as New Zealand overcame some stiff Pakistan resistance to dismiss the tourists for 297 at close of play on the opening day of the second and final test at Christchurch on Sunday. Already 1-0 up in the series and needing only a draw to rise to the top of the world rankings for the first time, the Black Caps won the toss and elected to field on what looked like a Hagley Oval track tailor-made for their attack. Pakistan had shown great fight at the end of their 101-run defeat in the first test, however, and started out as they had finished at Mount Maunganui with some batting of real intent on a day largely uninterrupted by the Christchurch rain. Azhar Ali led the way with a superb innings of 93 but there were also cameos from Mohammad Rizwan, who was again forced to stand-in as captain for the injured Babar Azam and scored 61, as well as Faheem Ashraf, who hit 48. Left-arm spinner Zafar Gohar extended the tail with a 62-ball 34 in his first test innings until he top edged a short delivery from Tim Southee just after New Zealand took the second new ball. The hosts rattled off the last two wickets in short order to bring up stumps, giving New Zealand`s openers the night to rest up before going out again to bat. Given the swing and seam in the pitch, New Zealand`s attack would have hoped to have got the job done more quickly and it looked like they would when Jamieson ripped through the Pakistan top order to reduce the tourists to 88-4 at lunch. Bowling with real venom and bounce, the 26-year-old sent back opener Abid Ali, Haris Sohail and Fawad Alam in three overs, the latter with an unplayable delivery that the batsman could only fend away from his helmet with his glove. Azhar Ali and Rizwan stalled the New Zealand attack with a partnership of 88 for the fifth wicket during which the stand-in skipper secured his fifth consecutive half century before edging a Jamieson delivery behind. Seamer Matt Henry, brought in to replace the injured Neil Wagner, finally winkled out Azhar Ali in the final session before Faheem Ashraf departed to give Jamieson his third five-wicket haul in six tests.

Jamieson takes five as New Zealand dismiss Pakistan for 297

Sri Lanka captain Dimuth Karunaratne won the toss and elected to bat in the second test against South Africa at The Wanderers Stadium on Sunday. 
 
Sri Lanka, who were hit heavily by injury in their first test defeat in Pretoria last week, made four changes and named new caps in Minod Bhanuka and Asitha Fernando as they look to fight back after losing the first of the two-test series last week. 
 
Lahiru Thirimanne and Dushmantha Chameera were also included as Sri Lanka have to do without injured Dinesh Chandimal, Dhananjaya de Silva, Lahiru Kumara and Kasun Rajitha. 
 
“The debutants have a good opportunity to express themselves in these conditions,” said Karunaratne after winning the toss. 
 
“The wickets looks good and we know the Wanderers wicket get harder and harder. We need to get the maximum out of the conditions at the top of the innings.” 
 
South Africa, who have lost eight of their last 10 tests, kept an unchanged line-up after winning by an innings and 45 runs at Centurion. Spinner Keshav Maharaj kept his place despite the temptation to go with an all-seam attack. 
 
Teams: 
 
South Africa: Dean Elgar, Aiden Markram, Rassie van der Dussen, Faf du Plessis, Quinton de Kock (captain, wk), Temba Bavuma, Wiaan Mulder, Keshav Maharaj, Anrich Nortje, Lutho Sipamla, Lungi Ngidi 
 
Sri Lanka: Dimuth Karunaratne (captain), Lahiru Thirimanne, Kusal Mendis, Kusal Perera, Minod Bhanuka, Dasun Shanaka, Niroshan Dickwella (wk), Wanindu Hasaranga, Dushmantha Chameera, Vishwa Fernando, Asitha Fernando. 
 
 
 
(Editing by Jason Neely) 
&nbsp;

Sri Lanka captain Dimuth Karunaratne won the toss and elected to bat in the second test against South Africa at The Wanderers Stadium on Sunday. Sri Lanka, who were hit heavily by injury in their first test defeat in Pretoria last week, made four changes and named new caps in Minod Bhanuka and Asitha Fernando as they look to fight back after losing the first of the two-test series last week.

Sri Lanka captain Dimuth Karunaratne won the toss and elected to bat in the second test against South Africa at The Wanderers Stadium on Sunday. Sri Lanka, who were hit heavily by injury in their first test defeat in Pretoria last week, made four changes and named new caps in Minod Bhanuka and Asitha Fernando as they look to fight back after losing the first of the two-test series last week. Lahiru Thirimanne and Dushmantha Chameera were also included as Sri Lanka have to do without injured Dinesh Chandimal, Dhananjaya de Silva, Lahiru Kumara and Kasun Rajitha. “The debutants have a good opportunity to express themselves in these conditions,” said Karunaratne after winning the toss. “The wickets looks good and we know the Wanderers wicket get harder and harder. We need to get the maximum out of the conditions at the top of the innings.” South Africa, who have lost eight of their last 10 tests, kept an unchanged line-up after winning by an innings and 45 runs at Centurion. Spinner Keshav Maharaj kept his place despite the temptation to go with an all-seam attack. Teams: South Africa: Dean Elgar, Aiden Markram, Rassie van der Dussen, Faf du Plessis, Quinton de Kock (captain, wk), Temba Bavuma, Wiaan Mulder, Keshav Maharaj, Anrich Nortje, Lutho Sipamla, Lungi Ngidi Sri Lanka: Dimuth Karunaratne (captain), Lahiru Thirimanne, Kusal Mendis, Kusal Perera, Minod Bhanuka, Dasun Shanaka, Niroshan Dickwella (wk), Wanindu Hasaranga, Dushmantha Chameera, Vishwa Fernando, Asitha Fernando. (Editing by Jason Neely)

Sri Lanka win toss and elect to bat in second test

Dhananjaya de Silva led a Sri Lankan batting revival before being forced to retire hurt on the first day of the first Test match against South Africa at SuperSport Park in Centurion on Saturday.

Sri Lanka were 212 for three at tea.

De Silva made 79 off 105 balls before pulling up clutching his left hip as he completed a run. He had treatment on the field before being taken off on a motorised stretcher.

De Silva and Dinesh Chandimal (50 not out) stabilised the Sri Lankan innings after a helter-skelter start in which they lost their first three wickets for 54 runs inside 11 overs. The pair added 131 runs before De Silva's injury.

De Silva played some flowing strokes in hitting 11 fours and a six, while Chandimal played an anchor role, reaching his half-century off 116 balls in the last over before tea.

Sri Lankan captain Dimuth Karunaratne capitalised on some loose bowling from South African debutant Lutho Sipamla to score 22 off 20 balls before he was bowled off an inside edge by Lungi Ngidi with the total on 28 in the fifth over.

Sri Lanka then lost two wickets to loose shots with the total on 54.

Kusal Mendis mistimed a pull shot and was caught at mid-on off Anrich Nortje before Kusal Perera played a wild slash at Wiaan Mulder and was caught behind in the next over.

South Africa were fielding their most inexperienced fast bowling attack since 1993, with Ngidi, Nortje, Sipamla and all-rounder Mulder having just 12 caps and 35 wickets between them.

On a pitch which offered bounce and early movement, the bowlers struggled to find consistency, with Sipamla leaking 28 runs in three overs with the new ball. Sipamla was playing ahead of the uncapped Glenton Stuurman, who had been expected to play but was judged not to have recovered fully from a thigh injury.

Because of Covid-19 protocols, the match was played without spectators.

It was the first Test match since January for both teams.

Dhananjaya de Silva led a Sri Lankan batting revival before being forced to retire hurt on the first day of the first Test match against South Africa at SuperSport Park in Centurion on Saturday.

Dhananjaya de Silva led a Sri Lankan batting revival before being forced to retire hurt on the first day of the first Test match against South Africa at SuperSport Park in Centurion on Saturday. Sri Lanka were 212 for three at tea. De Silva made 79 off 105 balls before pulling up clutching his left hip as he completed a run. He had treatment on the field before being taken off on a motorised stretcher. De Silva and Dinesh Chandimal (50 not out) stabilised the Sri Lankan innings after a helter-skelter start in which they lost their first three wickets for 54 runs inside 11 overs. The pair added 131 runs before De Silva's injury. De Silva played some flowing strokes in hitting 11 fours and a six, while Chandimal played an anchor role, reaching his half-century off 116 balls in the last over before tea. Sri Lankan captain Dimuth Karunaratne capitalised on some loose bowling from South African debutant Lutho Sipamla to score 22 off 20 balls before he was bowled off an inside edge by Lungi Ngidi with the total on 28 in the fifth over. Sri Lanka then lost two wickets to loose shots with the total on 54. Kusal Mendis mistimed a pull shot and was caught at mid-on off Anrich Nortje before Kusal Perera played a wild slash at Wiaan Mulder and was caught behind in the next over. South Africa were fielding their most inexperienced fast bowling attack since 1993, with Ngidi, Nortje, Sipamla and all-rounder Mulder having just 12 caps and 35 wickets between them. On a pitch which offered bounce and early movement, the bowlers struggled to find consistency, with Sipamla leaking 28 runs in three overs with the new ball. Sipamla was playing ahead of the uncapped Glenton Stuurman, who had been expected to play but was judged not to have recovered fully from a thigh injury. Because of Covid-19 protocols, the match was played without spectators. It was the first Test match since January for both teams.

De Silva injured after leading Sri Lankan revival

England's cricket team will be allowed to travel to Sri Lanka despite suspending all the flights from Britain due to new strain of coronavirus, as per island's cricket authorities said Wednesday.

The English squad is set to arrive in the island country on January 3 to play two Tests that will be played behind closed doors in Galle that will kick off on January 14.&nbsp;

Sri Lanka Cricket chief executive Ashley de Silva told AFP the visitors would be tested for coronavirus before departure and on arrival, and would also have to undergo quarantine for 10-days in a "bio-secure bubble".

The team would travel to Sri Lanka on a chartered flight, he said.

"Our doctors have been talking to the England team's doctors and they are quite satisfied with the arrangements," de Silva said.

"Both teams are looking forward to the tournament."

On Tuesday, Sri Lankan civil aviation authorities suspended all direct flights from Britain and anyone who had visited Britain in the previous two weeks was also barred from entry.

Sri Lanka has seen a recent spike in coronavirus cases, but has still officially recorded a relatively low 38,000 cases with 183 deaths.

(Inputs from AFP)

England's cricket team will be allowed to travel to Sri Lanka despite suspending all the flights from Britain due to new strain of coronavirus, as per island's cricket authorities said Wednesday.

England's cricket team will be allowed to travel to Sri Lanka despite suspending all the flights from Britain due to new strain of coronavirus, as per island's cricket authorities said Wednesday. The English squad is set to arrive in the island country on January 3 to play two Tests that will be played behind closed doors in Galle that will kick off on January 14. Sri Lanka Cricket chief executive Ashley de Silva told AFP the visitors would be tested for coronavirus before departure and on arrival, and would also have to undergo quarantine for 10-days in a "bio-secure bubble". The team would travel to Sri Lanka on a chartered flight, he said. "Our doctors have been talking to the England team's doctors and they are quite satisfied with the arrangements," de Silva said. "Both teams are looking forward to the tournament." On Tuesday, Sri Lankan civil aviation authorities suspended all direct flights from Britain and anyone who had visited Britain in the previous two weeks was also barred from entry. Sri Lanka has seen a recent spike in coronavirus cases, but has still officially recorded a relatively low 38,000 cases with 183 deaths. (Inputs from AFP)

England cricket team to fly to Sri Lanka to play Test series despite travel ban

India suffered a mammoth collapse on Day 3 and the last batsman to fall was Mohammad Shami as the player was struck by Cummins on the forearm and was forced to retire hurt.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/the-selectors-have-failed-tom-moody-feels-this-batsman-should-have-played-instead-of-prithvi-shaw-351020" hreflang="en">'The selectors have failed': Tom Moody feels this batsman should have played instead of Prithvi Shaw</a>

As per some reports, Shami suffered a fractured arm. According to news agency ANI, Shami has been ruled out of the Test series, though an official confirmation on the same from BCCI is still awaited.

India's former skipper Sunil Gavaskar said that Shami's absence will be a big blow for Team India. “It (Shami injury) is a big problem. he has the knack of taking wickets, he can shock the opposition with his bouncers and yorkers. If he is not playing, then it’s going to be trouble for India,” Gavaskar told Sports Tak.

Gavaskar went as far as to suggest that India should immediately bring in Ishant Sharma if he is fit. “If Ishant Sharma is fit, I am suggesting to send him to Australia now. If he is capable of bowling 20 overs in a day, the management should send him to Australia on tomorrow’s flight so that he can be ready for the Sydney Test,” he said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nothing-wrong-with-the-indian-effort-today-sunil-gavaskar-comforts-virat-and-co-350994" hreflang="en">'Nothing wrong with the Indian effort today': Sunil Gavaskar comforts Virat and Co.</a>

“I am saying India should look at taking a chance because there is no proper back-up now. Navdeep Saini has the potential to pick wickets but the way he bowled in the warm-up matches, it doesn’t look like he will be able to trouble the Australia batsmen,” he further added.

India will take on Australia for the Boxing Day Test match at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.&nbsp;

India suffered a mammoth collapse on Day 3 and the last batsman to fall was Mohammad Shami as the player was struck by Cummins on the forearm and was forced to retire hurt.

India suffered a mammoth collapse on Day 3 and the last batsman to fall was Mohammad Shami as the player was struck by Cummins on the forearm and was forced to retire hurt. Also read: 'The selectors have failed': Tom Moody feels this batsman should have played instead of Prithvi Shaw As per some reports, Shami suffered a fractured arm. According to news agency ANI, Shami has been ruled out of the Test series, though an official confirmation on the same from BCCI is still awaited. India's former skipper Sunil Gavaskar said that Shami's absence will be a big blow for Team India. “It (Shami injury) is a big problem. he has the knack of taking wickets, he can shock the opposition with his bouncers and yorkers. If he is not playing, then it’s going to be trouble for India,” Gavaskar told Sports Tak. Gavaskar went as far as to suggest that India should immediately bring in Ishant Sharma if he is fit. “If Ishant Sharma is fit, I am suggesting to send him to Australia now. If he is capable of bowling 20 overs in a day, the management should send him to Australia on tomorrow’s flight so that he can be ready for the Sydney Test,” he said. Also read: 'Nothing wrong with the Indian effort today': Sunil Gavaskar comforts Virat and Co. “I am saying India should look at taking a chance because there is no proper back-up now. Navdeep Saini has the potential to pick wickets but the way he bowled in the warm-up matches, it doesn’t look like he will be able to trouble the Australia batsmen,” he further added. India will take on Australia for the Boxing Day Test match at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.

'If Ishant Sharma is fit, send him now', says Sunil Gavaskar after injured Shami ruled out of Test series

India batsman Rohit Sharma has begun his fitness training on Thursday at the National Cricket Academy.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-aus-ishant-bowls-at-chinnaswamy-stadium-with-eyes-on-adelaide-test-343948" hreflang="en">IND vs AUS: Ishant bowls at Chinnaswamy Stadium with eyes on Adelaide Test</a>

Rohit has been added in Test squad after being rested for India’s limited-overs fixtures against Australia. He was included in the revised Test squad after leading his IPL team (Mumbai Indians) to its fifth title.&nbsp;

Even though Rohit had declared himself fit, the BCCI, however, felt he needed more time to recover from the hamstring injury he had suffered during the IPL. This triggered a massive debate of ver his fitness.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/aus-vs-ind-jasprit-bumrah-and-mohammed-shami-likely-to-be-rotated-in-white-ball-series-344056" hreflang="en">AUS vs IND: Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Shami likely to be rotated in white-ball series</a>

Sharma ended his woeful IPL season on a high after scoring 68 runs in the finals.&nbsp;

Rohit's fitness is crucial for Team India as skipper Kohli has decided to depart after playing the first Test against the Aussies.&nbsp;

Ishant Sharma on Wednesday is also present at the NCA for his injury rehab. Both Ishant and Rohit Sharma will fly to Australia together and undergo a 14-day quarantine before joining the team.

India batsman Rohit Sharma has begun his fitness training on Thursday at the National Cricket Academy. Also read: IND vs AUS: Ishant bowls at Chinnaswamy Stadium with eyes on Adelaide Test Rohit has been added in Test squad after being rested for India’s limited-overs fixtures against Australia.

India batsman Rohit Sharma has begun his fitness training on Thursday at the National Cricket Academy. Also read: IND vs AUS: Ishant bowls at Chinnaswamy Stadium with eyes on Adelaide Test Rohit has been added in Test squad after being rested for India’s limited-overs fixtures against Australia. He was included in the revised Test squad after leading his IPL team (Mumbai Indians) to its fifth title. Even though Rohit had declared himself fit, the BCCI, however, felt he needed more time to recover from the hamstring injury he had suffered during the IPL. This triggered a massive debate of ver his fitness. Also read: AUS vs IND: Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Shami likely to be rotated in white-ball series Sharma ended his woeful IPL season on a high after scoring 68 runs in the finals. Rohit's fitness is crucial for Team India as skipper Kohli has decided to depart after playing the first Test against the Aussies. Ishant Sharma on Wednesday is also present at the NCA for his injury rehab. Both Ishant and Rohit Sharma will fly to Australia together and undergo a 14-day quarantine before joining the team.

After IPL 2020, Rohit Sharma begins fitness training at NCA

English pacer Stuart Broad has been fined 15 per cent of match fee for breaching ICC Code of Conduct during England’s first Test against Pakistan.

Broad breached Article 2.5 after he used inappropriate language after dismissing Pakistan's Yasir Shah in the 46th over of second innings of the test match in Manchester.&nbsp;

Article 2.5 relates to "using language, actions or gestures which disparage or which could provoke an aggressive reaction from a batter upon his/her dismissal during an International Match".

The charges on the players were levelled by on-field umpires Richard Kettleborough and Richard Illingworth, third umpire Michael Gough and fourth official Steve O'Shaughnessy. Surprisingly, sanction on the player was proposed by Broad's father and match referee Chris Broad.

One demerit point was added to the disciplinary record of Stuart Broad. This was his third offence in 24 months, taking his cumulative demerit points to three.

English pacer Stuart Broad has been fined 15 per cent of match fee for breaching ICC Code of Conduct during England’s first Test against Pakistan. Broad breached Article 2.

English pacer Stuart Broad has been fined 15 per cent of match fee for breaching ICC Code of Conduct during England’s first Test against Pakistan. Broad breached Article 2.5 after he used inappropriate language after dismissing Pakistan's Yasir Shah in the 46th over of second innings of the test match in Manchester. Article 2.5 relates to "using language, actions or gestures which disparage or which could provoke an aggressive reaction from a batter upon his/her dismissal during an International Match". The charges on the players were levelled by on-field umpires Richard Kettleborough and Richard Illingworth, third umpire Michael Gough and fourth official Steve O'Shaughnessy. Surprisingly, sanction on the player was proposed by Broad's father and match referee Chris Broad. One demerit point was added to the disciplinary record of Stuart Broad. This was his third offence in 24 months, taking his cumulative demerit points to three.

'Father punishes son': Stuart Broad fined by Chris Board for breaching ICC Code of Conduct

World Health Organization is concerned that countries are not running adequate coronavirus tests in every suspected case.

WHO asks governments to run more tests

WHO says, Every country should test every suspected case of Covid 19. This test are very costly. we are telling you the costing here

Test every suspected case-WHO, Do you want to know how much test cost

Maximum recoveries cases are coming from China. Coronavirus cases gone down in China compare to other countries.

Your Story: Maximum Recoveries Reported in China in Covid 19

In a huge relief to the people of Delhi-NCR, all six samples of suspected COVID-19 cases collected from Noida school' students and their parents&nbsp;have tested negative, authorities confirmed on Wednesday.

"We have received a confirmation from the CMO and DM Gautambudha Nagar, that the results of the Coronavirus test have come in and are negative for all the children and family members," said Principal of Shriram Millennium school Uttara Singh in a statement

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/new-delhi-comes-under-covid-19-radar-noida-school-shut-283927">New Delhi comes under Covid-19 radar, Noida school shut</a>

However, all of the them will remain under observation for 14 days under the preventive measures, the principal also said.

"We are really happy that all members of our Shri family are safe and we pray for their good health," she added.

Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/coronavirus-scare-hits-noida-school-premises-closed-all-exams-cancelled-283889">Coronavirus scare hits Noida school: Premises closed, all exams cancelled</a>

Six people of Noida attended a birthday party hosted by an infected Delhi resident.

School on Tuesday said that the steps were taken keeping in mind the safety and well being of the children, including keeping the school shut from March 4-6 for fumigation and sanitisation purpose.

In a huge relief to the people of Delhi-NCR, all six samples of suspected COVID-19 cases collected from Noida school' students and their parents have tested negative, authorities confirmed on Wednesday.

In a huge relief to the people of Delhi-NCR, all six samples of suspected COVID-19 cases collected from Noida school' students and their parents have tested negative, authorities confirmed on Wednesday. "We have received a confirmation from the CMO and DM Gautambudha Nagar, that the results of the Coronavirus test have come in and are negative for all the children and family members," said Principal of Shriram Millennium school Uttara Singh in a statement Also Read: New Delhi comes under Covid-19 radar, Noida school shut However, all of the them will remain under observation for 14 days under the preventive measures, the principal also said. "We are really happy that all members of our Shri family are safe and we pray for their good health," she added. Also read:Coronavirus scare hits Noida school: Premises closed, all exams cancelled Six people of Noida attended a birthday party hosted by an infected Delhi resident. School on Tuesday said that the steps were taken keeping in mind the safety and well being of the children, including keeping the school shut from March 4-6 for fumigation and sanitisation purpose.

All six samples of coronavirus tests come out negative in Noida

BCCI, on Tuesday, announced their Test squad for the New Zealand tour. Two-test matches will be played between India and New Zealand. Prithvi Shaw is set to return in Test squad in the absence of India's prolific opener Rohit Sharma.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-sharma-ruled-out-of-new-zealand-tour-due-to-injury-gill-and-agarwal-to-replace-278428">Rohit Sharma ruled out of New Zealand tour due to injury; Gill and Agarwal to replace</a>

Indian cricket team's vice-captain Rohit Sharma has been ruled out of the New Zealand tour following a calf injury. The injury was struck during the fifth T20I against New Zealand on Sunday at Mount Maunganui. He scored 60 runs off 41 balls, he retired hurt after he pulled his calf muscle while running a quick single.

The squad:&nbsp;

Virat Kolhi (Captain), Mayank Agarwal, Prithvi Shaw, Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane (vice-captain), Hanuma Vihari, Wriddhiman Saha (wk), Rishabh Pant (wk), R. Ashwin, R. Jadeja, Jasprit Bumrah, Umesh Yadav, Mohd. Shami, Navdeep Saini, Ishant Sharma (subject to fitness clearance).

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India’s Test squad: Virat (Capt), Mayank, Prithvi Shaw, Shubman, Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane (vc), Hanuma Vihari, Wriddhiman Saha (wk), Rishabh Pant (wk), R. Ashwin, R. Jadeja, Jasprit Bumrah, Umesh Yadav, Mohd. Shami, Navdeep Saini, Ishant Sharma (subject to fitness clearance).
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1224518987016331265?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 4, 2020</a></blockquote>
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KL Rahul's name was missing from the squad which comes as a shock to many. Pacer spearhead Navdeep Saini has been given a chance to be in the squad and Shubman Gill is also a part of the Indian squad. Ishant Sharma was reported to miss the entire tour before but is now in the squad as a subject to regain his fitness to 100 per cent.&nbsp;

As of now, Mayank Agarwal has come as a replacement for the Indian vice-captain in the ODI series against the Blackcaps. Prithvi Shaw and KL Rahul are most likely to open the innings for India in the following matches.

India will take on New Zealand in the three-match ODI series tomorrow. Kane Williamson has been ruled out from the first two ODI matches following an injury. Mark Chapman will replace the Blackcap skipper. Tom Latham will lead the side for the two ODI matches.

India will be looking to continue their winning run against the Kiwi as they clean swept the T20I series, with this India, have become the first team to win a T20I series with 5-0 margin.

BCCI, on Tuesday, announced their Test squad for the New Zealand tour. Two-test matches will be played between India and New Zealand. Prithvi Shaw is set to return in Test squad in the absence of India's prolific opener Rohit Sharma.

BCCI, on Tuesday, announced their Test squad for the New Zealand tour. Two-test matches will be played between India and New Zealand. Prithvi Shaw is set to return in Test squad in the absence of India's prolific opener Rohit Sharma. Also read: Rohit Sharma ruled out of New Zealand tour due to injury; Gill and Agarwal to replace Indian cricket team's vice-captain Rohit Sharma has been ruled out of the New Zealand tour following a calf injury. The injury was struck during the fifth T20I against New Zealand on Sunday at Mount Maunganui. He scored 60 runs off 41 balls, he retired hurt after he pulled his calf muscle while running a quick single. The squad: Virat Kolhi (Captain), Mayank Agarwal, Prithvi Shaw, Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane (vice-captain), Hanuma Vihari, Wriddhiman Saha (wk), Rishabh Pant (wk), R. Ashwin, R. Jadeja, Jasprit Bumrah, Umesh Yadav, Mohd. Shami, Navdeep Saini, Ishant Sharma (subject to fitness clearance). India’s Test squad: Virat (Capt), Mayank, Prithvi Shaw, Shubman, Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane (vc), Hanuma Vihari, Wriddhiman Saha (wk), Rishabh Pant (wk), R. Ashwin, R. Jadeja, Jasprit Bumrah, Umesh Yadav, Mohd. Shami, Navdeep Saini, Ishant Sharma (subject to fitness clearance). — BCCI (@BCCI) February 4, 2020 × KL Rahul's name was missing from the squad which comes as a shock to many. Pacer spearhead Navdeep Saini has been given a chance to be in the squad and Shubman Gill is also a part of the Indian squad. Ishant Sharma was reported to miss the entire tour before but is now in the squad as a subject to regain his fitness to 100 per cent. As of now, Mayank Agarwal has come as a replacement for the Indian vice-captain in the ODI series against the Blackcaps. Prithvi Shaw and KL Rahul are most likely to open the innings for India in the following matches. India will take on New Zealand in the three-match ODI series tomorrow. Kane Williamson has been ruled out from the first two ODI matches following an injury. Mark Chapman will replace the Blackcap skipper. Tom Latham will lead the side for the two ODI matches. India will be looking to continue their winning run against the Kiwi as they clean swept the T20I series, with this India, have become the first team to win a T20I series with 5-0 margin.

India vs New Zealand Tests: Prithvi Shaw, Navdeep Saini in, Rohit Sharma out

India is set to face New Zealand for the first ODI of the series on Wednesday at Hamilton.&nbsp;

India will look forward to continuing their winning spree over the hosts as they already clean-swept New Zealand in the T20I series (5-0) on Sunday.

The deflated Kiwi side have already faced a setback before the beginning of the match tomorrow. Their in-form batsmen and skipper Kane Williamson has been ruled of the first two ODIs versus India following a shoulder injury. Mark Chapman has been called as the replace meant and Tom Latham has been declared as the Captain of the New Zealand side for first two ODIs.

India's prolific opener Rohit Sharma has also been ruled out for rest of the tour after he was struck by a calf injury.&nbsp;

Mayank Agarwal is set to replace Rohit in the ODIs. This tour will witness the come back of India's young prodigy Prithvi Shaw. The 20-year-old is expected to open the game for India alongside KL Rahul.

Prithvi Shaw has recently come out of 8-month long ban after he failed the doping test. He has been a part of India A and his fertile innings versus the New Zealand A earned him a spot in the team.

Last time these two heavyweights collided in this format was in the semifinal clash of the World Cup in England.

Skies in Hamilton are set to be clear and the opener is set to have a sunny day. Fans will be happy to know that there are no chances of precipitation tomorrow.&nbsp;

The match is scheduled to begin at 7:30 AM (IST).

India's probable XI: KL Rahul (wk), Prithvi Shaw, Virat Kohli (captain), Shreyas Iyer, Manish Pandey, R Jadeja/Kuldeep Yadav, Shivam Dube, Shardul Thakur, Navdeep Saini, Jasprit Bumrah.

New Zealand's probable XI: Martin Guptill, Henry Nicholls, Ross Taylor, Tom Latham(wk/captain), Mark Chapman, James Neesham, Mitchell Santner, Tim Southee, Hamish Bennett, Ish Sodhi, Scott Kuggeleijn

The ODI squads:

India: Lokesh Rahul(w), Mayank Agarwal, Virat Kohli(c), Shreyas Iyer, Manish Pandey, Shivam Dube, Ravindra Jadeja, Navdeep Saini, Mohammed Shami, Yuzvendra Chahal, Jasprit Bumrah, Prithvi Shaw, Kuldeep Yadav, Rishabh Pant, Kedar Jadhav, Shardul Thakur

New Zealand: Martin Guptill, Henry Nicholls, Ross Taylor, Tom Latham(w/c), Mark Chapman, James Neesham, Colin de Grandhomme, Mitchell Santner, Tim Southee, Hamish Bennett, Ish Sodhi, Tom Blundell, Kyle Jamieson, Scott Kuggeleijn

India is set to face New Zealand for the first ODI of the series on Wednesday at Hamilton. India will look forward to continuing their winning spree over the hosts as they already clean-swept New Zealand in the T20I series (5-0) on Sunday.

India is set to face New Zealand for the first ODI of the series on Wednesday at Hamilton. India will look forward to continuing their winning spree over the hosts as they already clean-swept New Zealand in the T20I series (5-0) on Sunday. The deflated Kiwi side have already faced a setback before the beginning of the match tomorrow. Their in-form batsmen and skipper Kane Williamson has been ruled of the first two ODIs versus India following a shoulder injury. Mark Chapman has been called as the replace meant and Tom Latham has been declared as the Captain of the New Zealand side for first two ODIs. India's prolific opener Rohit Sharma has also been ruled out for rest of the tour after he was struck by a calf injury. Mayank Agarwal is set to replace Rohit in the ODIs. This tour will witness the come back of India's young prodigy Prithvi Shaw. The 20-year-old is expected to open the game for India alongside KL Rahul. Prithvi Shaw has recently come out of 8-month long ban after he failed the doping test. He has been a part of India A and his fertile innings versus the New Zealand A earned him a spot in the team. Last time these two heavyweights collided in this format was in the semifinal clash of the World Cup in England. Skies in Hamilton are set to be clear and the opener is set to have a sunny day. Fans will be happy to know that there are no chances of precipitation tomorrow. The match is scheduled to begin at 7:30 AM (IST). India's probable XI: KL Rahul (wk), Prithvi Shaw, Virat Kohli (captain), Shreyas Iyer, Manish Pandey, R Jadeja/Kuldeep Yadav, Shivam Dube, Shardul Thakur, Navdeep Saini, Jasprit Bumrah. New Zealand's probable XI: Martin Guptill, Henry Nicholls, Ross Taylor, Tom Latham(wk/captain), Mark Chapman, James Neesham, Mitchell Santner, Tim Southee, Hamish Bennett, Ish Sodhi, Scott Kuggeleijn The ODI squads: India: Lokesh Rahul(w), Mayank Agarwal, Virat Kohli(c), Shreyas Iyer, Manish Pandey, Shivam Dube, Ravindra Jadeja, Navdeep Saini, Mohammed Shami, Yuzvendra Chahal, Jasprit Bumrah, Prithvi Shaw, Kuldeep Yadav, Rishabh Pant, Kedar Jadhav, Shardul Thakur New Zealand: Martin Guptill, Henry Nicholls, Ross Taylor, Tom Latham(w/c), Mark Chapman, James Neesham, Colin de Grandhomme, Mitchell Santner, Tim Southee, Hamish Bennett, Ish Sodhi, Tom Blundell, Kyle Jamieson, Scott Kuggeleijn

India vs New Zealand 1st ODI: Virat Kohli-led Team India look to continue winning streak against Black Caps

Indian cricket team's vice-captain Rohit Sharma has been ruled out of the New Zealand tour following a calf injury. The injury was struck during the fifth T20I against New Zealand on Sunday at Mount Maunganui. He scored 60 runs off 41 balls, he retired hurt after he pulled his calf muscle while running a quick single.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/jasprit-bumrah-breaks-world-record-bowls-most-maiden-overs-in-t20is-278334" hreflang="en">Jasprit Bumrah breaks world record, bowls most maiden overs in T20Is</a>

As of now, Mayank Agarwal has come as a replacement for the Indian vice-captain in the ODI series against the Blackcaps. Prithvi Shaw and KL Rahul are most likely to open the innings for India in the following matches.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-sharma-goes-past-virat-kohli-in-terms-of-most-50-score-in-t20is-278244" hreflang="en">Rohit Sharma's new record in T20Is outshines Virat Kohli</a>

Agarwal was the first pick as he had replaced Shikhar Dhawan (knee injury) in ODIs against West Indies. &nbsp;

Shubman Gill is set to replace Rohit Sharma in Tests as a third opener, Shaw and Rahul again are predicted to open the game for India.&nbsp;

In the last two-Test series at home (South Africa and Bangladesh), Shubman was a backup for Rohit Sharma and Mayank Agarwal.&nbsp;

The whole Test squad is yet to be announced.&nbsp;

Rohit Sharma had recently overtaken the Indian skipper in terms of most 50+ scores in T20Is.&nbsp;

India extended their record for most successive T20Is winning eight in succession.

With the clean sweep against the Black Caps, India have become the first team to win a T20I series with 5-0 margin.

Indian cricket team's vice-captain Rohit Sharma has been ruled out of the New Zealand tour following a calf injury. The injury was struck during the fifth T20I against New Zealand on Sunday at Mount Maunganui.

Indian cricket team's vice-captain Rohit Sharma has been ruled out of the New Zealand tour following a calf injury. The injury was struck during the fifth T20I against New Zealand on Sunday at Mount Maunganui. He scored 60 runs off 41 balls, he retired hurt after he pulled his calf muscle while running a quick single. Also read: Jasprit Bumrah breaks world record, bowls most maiden overs in T20Is As of now, Mayank Agarwal has come as a replacement for the Indian vice-captain in the ODI series against the Blackcaps. Prithvi Shaw and KL Rahul are most likely to open the innings for India in the following matches. Also read: Rohit Sharma's new record in T20Is outshines Virat Kohli Agarwal was the first pick as he had replaced Shikhar Dhawan (knee injury) in ODIs against West Indies. Shubman Gill is set to replace Rohit Sharma in Tests as a third opener, Shaw and Rahul again are predicted to open the game for India. In the last two-Test series at home (South Africa and Bangladesh), Shubman was a backup for Rohit Sharma and Mayank Agarwal. The whole Test squad is yet to be announced. Rohit Sharma had recently overtaken the Indian skipper in terms of most 50+ scores in T20Is. India extended their record for most successive T20Is winning eight in succession. With the clean sweep against the Black Caps, India have become the first team to win a T20I series with 5-0 margin.

Rohit Sharma ruled out of New Zealand tour due to injury; Gill and Agarwal to replace

India will be touring in New Zealand for five T20Is, three ODIs, and two Tests. The matches will commence on January 24.

Also read-&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-australia-3rd-odi-rohit-sharma-shami-shine-as-hosts-claim-series-275323">India vs Australia 3rd ODI: Rohit Sharma, Shami shine as hosts claim series</a> 
&nbsp; 
The hosts will be looking forward to bouncing back after they lost home Test series against Australia. The series was a clean sweep. (0-3)

Also read-&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/aus-vs-nz-nathan-lyon-takes-five-as-australia-dominate-in-sydney-272264">Aus vs NZ: Nathan Lyon takes five as Australia dominate in Sydney</a>

India will be confident and pumped up after a recent series win against Australia. India came back from behind to win the three-match ODI series (2-1).&nbsp;

Ishant Sharma might be ruled out of the series post an ankle injury while playing against Vidharbha in the Ranji Trophy, Shikhar Dhawan will also miss out the five T20Is against Kiwis following a shoulder injury he inflicted while fielding in the third ODI against the Aussies.

Shikhar's replacement will be announced soon. Board of Cricket Control in India (BCCI) will review Ishant's MRI scan again and will look at the extent of the tear.

Despite Rishabh Pant's regaining fitness, it seems like he will be benched during the tour as the Indian Skipper said that KL Rahul's current role is more suitable to the team. Rahul's outstanding form in the previous series as helped him cement his position in the playing XI. He was designated as the keeper after Pant was ruled out for the remainder of the series post-concussion. His stumping against Aaron Finch was decisive in the second ODI.&nbsp;

Virat Kohli compared this formula to that of World Cup 2003, where Rahul Dravid donned the gloves to make a place for an extra batsman.&nbsp;

New Zealand, on the other hand, will aim to win all the formats of the tour as the ICC World Cup finalists would want to establish confidence after the forgettable home series against the Aussies.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Fixtures-

T20I series:

January 24, Friday- 1st T20I New Zealand vs India - Eden Park, Auckland

January 26, Sunday- 2nd T20I New Zealand vs India - Eden Park, Auckland

January 29, Wednesday- 3rd T20I New Zealand vs India - Seddon Park, Hamilton

January 31, Friday- 4th T20I New Zealand vs India - Westpac Stadium, Wellington

February 02, Sunday- 5th T20I New Zealand vs India - Bay Oval, Mount Maunganui

 
ODI series:

February 05, Wednesday- &nbsp;1st ODI New Zealand vs India - Seddon Park, Hamilton

February 08, Saturday- &nbsp;2nd ODI New Zealand vs India - Eden Park, Auckland

February 11, Tuesday- &nbsp;3rd ODI New Zealand vs India - Bay Oval, Mount Maunganui

Test series:

February 21, Fri to February 25, Tue- 1st Test, New Zealand vs India - Basin Reserve, Wellington

February 29, Sat - March 04, Wed- 2nd Test, New Zealand vs India - Hagley Oval, Christchurch 
&nbsp;

India will be touring in New Zealand for five T20Is, three ODIs, and two Tests. The matches will commence on January 24. Also read- India vs Australia 3rd ODI: Rohit Sharma, Shami shine as hosts claim series The hosts will be looking forward to bouncing back after they lost home Test series against Australia.

India will be touring in New Zealand for five T20Is, three ODIs, and two Tests. The matches will commence on January 24. Also read- India vs Australia 3rd ODI: Rohit Sharma, Shami shine as hosts claim series The hosts will be looking forward to bouncing back after they lost home Test series against Australia. The series was a clean sweep. (0-3) Also read- Aus vs NZ: Nathan Lyon takes five as Australia dominate in Sydney India will be confident and pumped up after a recent series win against Australia. India came back from behind to win the three-match ODI series (2-1). Ishant Sharma might be ruled out of the series post an ankle injury while playing against Vidharbha in the Ranji Trophy, Shikhar Dhawan will also miss out the five T20Is against Kiwis following a shoulder injury he inflicted while fielding in the third ODI against the Aussies. Shikhar's replacement will be announced soon. Board of Cricket Control in India (BCCI) will review Ishant's MRI scan again and will look at the extent of the tear. Despite Rishabh Pant's regaining fitness, it seems like he will be benched during the tour as the Indian Skipper said that KL Rahul's current role is more suitable to the team. Rahul's outstanding form in the previous series as helped him cement his position in the playing XI. He was designated as the keeper after Pant was ruled out for the remainder of the series post-concussion. His stumping against Aaron Finch was decisive in the second ODI. Virat Kohli compared this formula to that of World Cup 2003, where Rahul Dravid donned the gloves to make a place for an extra batsman. New Zealand, on the other hand, will aim to win all the formats of the tour as the ICC World Cup finalists would want to establish confidence after the forgettable home series against the Aussies. Fixtures- T20I series: January 24, Friday- 1st T20I New Zealand vs India - Eden Park, Auckland January 26, Sunday- 2nd T20I New Zealand vs India - Eden Park, Auckland January 29, Wednesday- 3rd T20I New Zealand vs India - Seddon Park, Hamilton January 31, Friday- 4th T20I New Zealand vs India - Westpac Stadium, Wellington February 02, Sunday- 5th T20I New Zealand vs India - Bay Oval, Mount Maunganui ODI series: February 05, Wednesday- 1st ODI New Zealand vs India - Seddon Park, Hamilton February 08, Saturday- 2nd ODI New Zealand vs India - Eden Park, Auckland February 11, Tuesday- 3rd ODI New Zealand vs India - Bay Oval, Mount Maunganui Test series: February 21, Fri to February 25, Tue- 1st Test, New Zealand vs India - Basin Reserve, Wellington February 29, Sat - March 04, Wed- 2nd Test, New Zealand vs India - Hagley Oval, Christchurch

India vs New Zealand: Kiwis eye redemption against Virat's men

Bangladesh Cricket Board and the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../pakistan-have-no-dearth-of-talents-says-waqar- younis-271890">Pakistan Cricket Board</a> have been in much of a scuffle regarding the venue of the test series between them.

Today, Bangladesh Cricket Board is going to decide whether they will play the Test match in Pakistan or not.

In 2009, Sri Lanka's National Team bus on it's way to Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore was brutally ambushed by terrorists leaving 8 people dead and 7 Sri Lanka players and staff injured. After which Teams have been hesitant of tours in Pakistan.&nbsp;

Pakistan have managed to successfully host <a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../sri-lanka-arrive-for-first-tests-in-pakistan-since- 2009-attack-267140">Sri Lanka</a> in ODI, T20I, and Test Series after a long decade gap.

The fear of security lures in for the Bangladesh Cricket team. The BCB had agreed on playing the T20I in Pakistan as the T20 World Cup closes in, but they wanted a neutral venue to play two test matches.&nbsp;

These matches are for the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../south-africa-beat-england-by-107-runs-in-first- test-270868">World Test Championship</a>, so they are significant for both sides.

In December, Pakistan Cricket Board chairman Ehsan Mani wrote an e-mail to Bangladesh Cricket Board, asking them to provide valid reasons for not playing in Pakistan. &nbsp;

"We said we want to play only T20Is, but they wanted us to play the Tests. We will play the T20Is bilaterally before the [T20] World Cup. This was PCB's proposal today, but we haven't decided yet. We will on Thursday," said Nazmul Hassan, as reported by ANI.

Pakistan are&nbsp;fourth in ICC World Test Championship, with one win, two losses and a draw whereas Bangladesh are&nbsp;at the bottom of the table without a win and two heavy defeats. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-sri-lanka-2nd-t20i-india-thrash-sri-lanka-by-7-wickets-in-the-second-t20i-take-1-0-lead-272801">India vs Sri Lanka, 2nd T20I: India thrash Sri Lanka by 7 wickets in the second T20I, take 1-0 lead</a>

Bangladesh Cricket Board and the Pakistan Cricket Board have been in much of a scuffle regarding the venue of the test series between them. Today, Bangladesh Cricket Board is going to decide whether they will play the Test match in Pakistan or not.

Bangladesh Cricket Board and the Pakistan Cricket Board have been in much of a scuffle regarding the venue of the test series between them. Today, Bangladesh Cricket Board is going to decide whether they will play the Test match in Pakistan or not. In 2009, Sri Lanka's National Team bus on it's way to Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore was brutally ambushed by terrorists leaving 8 people dead and 7 Sri Lanka players and staff injured. After which Teams have been hesitant of tours in Pakistan. Pakistan have managed to successfully host Sri Lanka in ODI, T20I, and Test Series after a long decade gap. The fear of security lures in for the Bangladesh Cricket team. The BCB had agreed on playing the T20I in Pakistan as the T20 World Cup closes in, but they wanted a neutral venue to play two test matches. These matches are for the World Test Championship, so they are significant for both sides. In December, Pakistan Cricket Board chairman Ehsan Mani wrote an e-mail to Bangladesh Cricket Board, asking them to provide valid reasons for not playing in Pakistan. "We said we want to play only T20Is, but they wanted us to play the Tests. We will play the T20Is bilaterally before the [T20] World Cup. This was PCB's proposal today, but we haven't decided yet. We will on Thursday," said Nazmul Hassan, as reported by ANI. Pakistan are fourth in ICC World Test Championship, with one win, two losses and a draw whereas Bangladesh are at the bottom of the table without a win and two heavy defeats. Also read: India vs Sri Lanka, 2nd T20I: India thrash Sri Lanka by 7 wickets in the second T20I, take 1-0 lead

Bangladesh Cricket Board to decide on Test Tour in Pakistan today

New Zealand's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/slvsnz-trent-boult-tim-southee-rattle-sri-lanka-in-rain-hit-test-245147">Trent Boult</a> remains a doubt for the first Test against Australia due to a side injury but captain Kane Williamson says he will give the pace spearhead every chance to prove his fitness before the match begins in Perth on Thursday.

The tourists are sweating on the fitness of their ace quick with the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-open-to-pink-ball-test-in-australia-with-proper-planning-264249">pink ball</a> used in the inaugural day-nighter at <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-class-perth-stadium-gets-icc-green-light-29196https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-class-perth-stadium-gets-icc-green-light-29196">Perth Stadium</a> set to suit Boult’s penchant for swing.

Williamson said the team’s training session late on Wednesday would likely determine the availability of Boult, who had managed to get through training on Tuesday.

"We’re going to have another look at (Boult) today before deciding anything tomorrow,” he told reporters on Wednesday.

“I think you look at it as a long-term decision in terms of this whole series. He has tracked really nicely and felt really good yesterday.”

Williamson was more confident in the injury status of veteran batsman <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ross-taylor-fit-to-play-in-first-test-against-england-kane-williamson-36590">Ross Taylor</a> (thumb) and all-rounder <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/de-grandhomme-seals-black-caps-win-over-pakistan-29742">Colin de Grandhomme</a> (abdominal muscle).

“Ross is fine, just a bit of a knock but nothing major. Colin is tracking nicely,” he said.

Uncapped fast bowler Lockie Ferguson could make his test debut on an expected fast, bouncy Perth pitch, which is expected to deteriorate with fierce heat forecast for most of the match.

“It’s exciting we’ve got Lockie in our squad to consider him,” Williamson said. “It’s exciting to have a guy in our camp who can bowl at that speed.”

Both teams are to wear black armbands as a tribute to the victims of New Zealand’s <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/100-people-near-new-zealand-volcano-when-it-erupted-pm-jacinda-ardern-267054">White Island volcano</a> eruption and Williamson said the news had been a shock.

"It’s very hard to comprehend. When a tragedy like this happens it’s such a shock,” he added.

New Zealand's Trent Boult remains a doubt for the first Test against Australia due to a side injury but captain Kane Williamson says he will give the pace spearhead every chance to prove his fitness before the match begins in Perth on Thursday.

New Zealand's Trent Boult remains a doubt for the first Test against Australia due to a side injury but captain Kane Williamson says he will give the pace spearhead every chance to prove his fitness before the match begins in Perth on Thursday. The tourists are sweating on the fitness of their ace quick with the pink ball used in the inaugural day-nighter at Perth Stadium set to suit Boult’s penchant for swing. Williamson said the team’s training session late on Wednesday would likely determine the availability of Boult, who had managed to get through training on Tuesday. "We’re going to have another look at (Boult) today before deciding anything tomorrow,” he told reporters on Wednesday. “I think you look at it as a long-term decision in terms of this whole series. He has tracked really nicely and felt really good yesterday.” Williamson was more confident in the injury status of veteran batsman Ross Taylor (thumb) and all-rounder Colin de Grandhomme (abdominal muscle). “Ross is fine, just a bit of a knock but nothing major. Colin is tracking nicely,” he said. Uncapped fast bowler Lockie Ferguson could make his test debut on an expected fast, bouncy Perth pitch, which is expected to deteriorate with fierce heat forecast for most of the match. “It’s exciting we’ve got Lockie in our squad to consider him,” Williamson said. “It’s exciting to have a guy in our camp who can bowl at that speed.” Both teams are to wear black armbands as a tribute to the victims of New Zealand’s White Island volcano eruption and Williamson said the news had been a shock. "It’s very hard to comprehend. When a tragedy like this happens it’s such a shock,” he added.

Cricket: New Zealand spearhead Boult a doubt for first Test

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/frances-emmanuel-macron-to-hold-meeting-on-pensions-as-strike-bites-266909">French President Emmanuel&nbsp;Macron</a>&nbsp;this week&nbsp;faces&nbsp;the&nbsp;first&nbsp;major&nbsp;test&nbsp;of his policy of directly engaging with&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;that has disturbed some European allies, as he hosts a summit seeking progress in ending the Ukraine conflict.

Joined by German Chancellor Angela Merkel,&nbsp;Macron&nbsp;will bring together Russian President Vladimir Putin and his Ukrainian counterpart Volodymyr Zelensky for their&nbsp;first&nbsp;face-to-face meeting at an afternoon summit at the Elysee Palace in Paris on Monday.

The stakes are high: this will be the&nbsp;first&nbsp;such summit in three years and while diplomats caution against expecting a major breakthrough, a failure to agree concrete confidence-building steps would be seen as a major blow to hopes for peace and also&nbsp;Macron's personal prestige.

Macron, who is pressing ahead with the summit despite crippling public transport strikes at home over contested pension reforms, has invested hugely in efforts to end the conflict in the east of Ukraine that has claimed 13,000 lives since 2014.

And he has also placed his bets on a risky&nbsp;strategy&nbsp;to deal directly with Putin, based on the assumption that one day&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;will understand it is in the national interest to see Europe as its long-term strategic partner.

"It is an important&nbsp;test&nbsp;for&nbsp;Macron&nbsp;and for the Europeans," said Michel Duclos, a former ambassador and senior fellow at the Institut Montaigne, a French think tank.

"He is already very isolated. And if he obtains nothing on Ukraine he is going to be even more isolated," he added.

But he added the Kremlin was "astute enough" to understand that the summit had to be declared a success and Putin was gladdened by&nbsp;Macron's overtures as he "sees in that a chance to divide the Europeans".

'Threat but also a partner'

Macron&nbsp;has adopted an <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/french-strike-against-macron-reforms-enters-day-two-266522">increasingly assertive presence</a> on the international stage in recent months, at a time when&nbsp;Germany is a less imposing diplomatic player as Merkel prepares to leave the office.

His thoughts were summed up in an explosive interview with The Economist last month when he declared NATO was brain dead and said Europe needed to have a strategic dialogue with&nbsp;Russia.

Examining&nbsp;Russia's long-term strategic options under Putin,&nbsp;Macron&nbsp;said in the interview that&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;could not prosper in isolation, would not want to be a "vassal" of China and would eventually have to opt for "a partnership project with Europe".

Macron&nbsp;notably described ex-KGB agent Putin as a "child of Saint Petersburg", the former Russian capital built by Peter the Great as a window onto the West.

His comments disturbed newer EU members that want a tough line against their former master&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;like the Baltic States and, in particular, Poland. And they added to a raft of growing tensions between France and Germany.

But after a summit of NATO leaders in England earlier this month,&nbsp;Macron&nbsp;was unrepentant and categorical about his&nbsp;strategy&nbsp;of cultivating&nbsp;Russia.

"Who is NATO's&nbsp;enemy?&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;is no longer an&nbsp;enemy. It remains a threat but is also a partner on some subjects. Our&nbsp;enemy&nbsp;today is international terrorism and in particular Islamist terrorism," he said.

'Being a nuisance no&nbsp;strategy'

A French diplomatic source argued&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;could not forever pin its&nbsp;strategy&nbsp;on being a "power of disturbance" with policies like its military intervention in Syria to keep President Bashar al-Assad in power or its alliance with NATO member Turkey which has rattled the West.

"If having a capacity to be a nuisance is your only lever it is not a lasting and viable&nbsp;strategy," said the source, adding there was also a "profound Russian concern about being locked into a rivalry with China".&nbsp;

Konstantin Kalachev, director of the&nbsp;Moscow-based Political Expert Group, warned "it would be naive to think Emmanuel&nbsp;Macron&nbsp;can exercise any kind of influence on Vladimir Putin with the aim of bringing&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;closer to the EU.

"There is only one person who can influence President Putin. And that is President Putin himself."

In a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-braces-for-shutdown-as-macron-clashes-with-unions-266219">glimmer of hope for&nbsp;Macron</a>, he added: "Mr Putin has no interest that this (Ukrainian) conflict worsens. But he wants any solution to be drawn up according to his conditions".

French President Emmanuel Macron this week faces the first major test of his policy of directly engaging with Russia that has disturbed some European allies, as he hosts a summit seeking progress in ending the Ukraine conflict.

French President Emmanuel Macron this week faces the first major test of his policy of directly engaging with Russia that has disturbed some European allies, as he hosts a summit seeking progress in ending the Ukraine conflict. Joined by German Chancellor Angela Merkel, Macron will bring together Russian President Vladimir Putin and his Ukrainian counterpart Volodymyr Zelensky for their first face-to-face meeting at an afternoon summit at the Elysee Palace in Paris on Monday. The stakes are high: this will be the first such summit in three years and while diplomats caution against expecting a major breakthrough, a failure to agree concrete confidence-building steps would be seen as a major blow to hopes for peace and also Macron's personal prestige. Macron, who is pressing ahead with the summit despite crippling public transport strikes at home over contested pension reforms, has invested hugely in efforts to end the conflict in the east of Ukraine that has claimed 13,000 lives since 2014. And he has also placed his bets on a risky strategy to deal directly with Putin, based on the assumption that one day Russia will understand it is in the national interest to see Europe as its long-term strategic partner. "It is an important test for Macron and for the Europeans," said Michel Duclos, a former ambassador and senior fellow at the Institut Montaigne, a French think tank. "He is already very isolated. And if he obtains nothing on Ukraine he is going to be even more isolated," he added. But he added the Kremlin was "astute enough" to understand that the summit had to be declared a success and Putin was gladdened by Macron's overtures as he "sees in that a chance to divide the Europeans". 'Threat but also a partner' Macron has adopted an increasingly assertive presence on the international stage in recent months, at a time when Germany is a less imposing diplomatic player as Merkel prepares to leave the office. His thoughts were summed up in an explosive interview with The Economist last month when he declared NATO was brain dead and said Europe needed to have a strategic dialogue with Russia. Examining Russia's long-term strategic options under Putin, Macron said in the interview that Russia could not prosper in isolation, would not want to be a "vassal" of China and would eventually have to opt for "a partnership project with Europe". Macron notably described ex-KGB agent Putin as a "child of Saint Petersburg", the former Russian capital built by Peter the Great as a window onto the West. His comments disturbed newer EU members that want a tough line against their former master Russia like the Baltic States and, in particular, Poland. And they added to a raft of growing tensions between France and Germany. But after a summit of NATO leaders in England earlier this month, Macron was unrepentant and categorical about his strategy of cultivating Russia. "Who is NATO's enemy? Russia is no longer an enemy. It remains a threat but is also a partner on some subjects. Our enemy today is international terrorism and in particular Islamist terrorism," he said. 'Being a nuisance no strategy' A French diplomatic source argued Russia could not forever pin its strategy on being a "power of disturbance" with policies like its military intervention in Syria to keep President Bashar al-Assad in power or its alliance with NATO member Turkey which has rattled the West. "If having a capacity to be a nuisance is your only lever it is not a lasting and viable strategy," said the source, adding there was also a "profound Russian concern about being locked into a rivalry with China". Konstantin Kalachev, director of the Moscow-based Political Expert Group, warned "it would be naive to think Emmanuel Macron can exercise any kind of influence on Vladimir Putin with the aim of bringing Russia closer to the EU. "There is only one person who can influence President Putin. And that is President Putin himself." In a glimmer of hope for Macron, he added: "Mr Putin has no interest that this (Ukrainian) conflict worsens. But he wants any solution to be drawn up according to his conditions".

French President to face test of direct engagement with Russia

North Korean state news agency KCNA said on Friday another test of super-large multiple <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-fires-short-range-projectiles-souths-military-259136">rocket launchers</a> a day earlier had been a success, but the test drew protests from neighbouring Japan and South Korea.

KCNA said the latest test of the "super-large multiple rocket launchers", following two tests of the same weapon in August and September overseen by North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, indicated the progress of Pyongyang's weapons development while talks with the United States remain in limbo.

The success of the tests was reported immediately and Kim expressed satisfaction and congratulated the scientists who had developed the weapon, KCNA said, suggesting that Kim was not at the site for Thursday afternoon's test.

North Korea's state newspaper, Rodong Sinmun, showed a photo of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-fires-unidentified-projectiles-souths-military-259004">multiple rocket launcher</a> surrounded by yellow flames and smoke.

Thursday's test verified that the "continuous fire system" of the multiple rocket launchers was able to "totally destroy" a group target of the enemy by a surprise strike, KCNA said.

Japanese Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshihide Suga said North Korea's latest test, which he described as a missile launch, was against United Nations resolutions and was "extremely regrettable". Suga said Japan had protested to North Korea over the missile launch.

Republican US&nbsp;Senator Cory Gardner, chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Subcommittee on East Asia, the Pacific, and International Cybersecurity Policy, said North Korea was "engaged in increasingly escalatory behaviour".

"This launch and continued North Korean aggression underscore the need for the Trump Administration to re-commit to the maximum pressure policy" and for Congress to impose additional sanctions against Kim's government, Gardner said in a statement.

However, South Korea's national security adviser Chung Eui-Yong said the North's missile launches do not pose "very grave threats".

"We're also test-firing missiles, no less than North Korea does," he told a parliamentary session. "Our missile defence and intercept capabilities are absolutely superior to theirs."

The weapons test was the first since one day of talks between the United States and North Korea in Sweden ended without an agreement on Oct. 5. It came as North Korea repeatedly emphasises an end-of-the-year deadline that Kim set for denuclearisation talks with Washington.

The situation on the Korean Peninsula is at a critical stage, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Geng Shuang told reporters at a daily news briefing on Friday. All sides should work towards a peaceful resolution of the issue, he said.

KCNA said last month that while Kim and US&nbsp;President Donald Trump have a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-koreas-kim-jong-un-and-trump-have-special-relationship-state-media-257802">"special" relationship</a>, policymakers in Washington were "hostile to the DPRK for no reason". North Korea's official name is the Democratic People's Republic of Korea.

North Korean state news agency KCNA said on Friday another test of super-large multiple rocket launchers a day earlier had been a success, but the test drew protests from neighbouring Japan and South Korea.

North Korean state news agency KCNA said on Friday another test of super-large multiple rocket launchers a day earlier had been a success, but the test drew protests from neighbouring Japan and South Korea. KCNA said the latest test of the "super-large multiple rocket launchers", following two tests of the same weapon in August and September overseen by North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, indicated the progress of Pyongyang's weapons development while talks with the United States remain in limbo. The success of the tests was reported immediately and Kim expressed satisfaction and congratulated the scientists who had developed the weapon, KCNA said, suggesting that Kim was not at the site for Thursday afternoon's test. North Korea's state newspaper, Rodong Sinmun, showed a photo of the multiple rocket launcher surrounded by yellow flames and smoke. Thursday's test verified that the "continuous fire system" of the multiple rocket launchers was able to "totally destroy" a group target of the enemy by a surprise strike, KCNA said. Japanese Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshihide Suga said North Korea's latest test, which he described as a missile launch, was against United Nations resolutions and was "extremely regrettable". Suga said Japan had protested to North Korea over the missile launch. Republican US Senator Cory Gardner, chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Subcommittee on East Asia, the Pacific, and International Cybersecurity Policy, said North Korea was "engaged in increasingly escalatory behaviour". "This launch and continued North Korean aggression underscore the need for the Trump Administration to re-commit to the maximum pressure policy" and for Congress to impose additional sanctions against Kim's government, Gardner said in a statement. However, South Korea's national security adviser Chung Eui-Yong said the North's missile launches do not pose "very grave threats". "We're also test-firing missiles, no less than North Korea does," he told a parliamentary session. "Our missile defence and intercept capabilities are absolutely superior to theirs." The weapons test was the first since one day of talks between the United States and North Korea in Sweden ended without an agreement on Oct. 5. It came as North Korea repeatedly emphasises an end-of-the-year deadline that Kim set for denuclearisation talks with Washington. The situation on the Korean Peninsula is at a critical stage, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Geng Shuang told reporters at a daily news briefing on Friday. All sides should work towards a peaceful resolution of the issue, he said. KCNA said last month that while Kim and US President Donald Trump have a "special" relationship, policymakers in Washington were "hostile to the DPRK for no reason". North Korea's official name is the Democratic People's Republic of Korea.

North Korea says it conducted successful test of multiple rocket launchers

England have made one change in personnel to their side for the fourth Test against Australia at Old Trafford, with fast bowler Craig Overton replacing the dropped Chris Woakes.

Somerset quick Overton was only drafted into the squad after it was confirmed James Anderson, England's all-time leading wicket-taker, was ruled out with a calf injury.&nbsp;

The same injury has prevented Anderson from bowling in the series since his four-over spell in the first innings of Australia's 251-run win in the first Test at Edgbaston.

Overton comes into the side on the back of England's stunning one-wicket win in the third Test at Headingley, inspired by Ben Stokes's superb 135 not out, that saw them square the five-match Ashes series at 1-1.

The 25-year-old Overton has played three Tests and bowled Australia star batsman Steve Smith on debut at Adelaide in December 2017.

England captain Joe Root, explaining why Overton had been included, told reporters at Old Trafford during his pre-match press conference on Tuesday: "This ground does perform slightly differently with an extra bit of bounce and a taller bowler will give us an extra option to go to.

"I feel like that balances out our attack really well in these conditions."

Root added: "Craig is a competitor. You saw him come into Ashes cricket on debut and straight away he looked very much at home.&nbsp;

"He got himself in a battle and I expect him to do that this week. I expect him to cause some issues for the Aussie batters."

'High-quality Roy'

Root also confirmed the switch of positions between Jason Roy and Joe Denly, with World Cup winner Roy dropping down to number four after struggling as a Test opener.

"Jason is a high-quality player, we all know that, and he might be better suited at four," Root said.

"I think to play in an Ashes series is very exciting and he was extremely excited to get the chance to open the batting, but I think that he might be better suited for the middle order on the evidence we have seen over the last three games.

"It's a great opportunity for him to make it his own and we have seen him play enough international cricket to know what he can do when he gets himself in, so hopefully batting lower down allows him to do that.

"Joe (Denly) has played some good cricket throughout the summer, he has got himself in and he was very good in that second innings (at Headingley when he made a fifty).

"It's a great opportunity for him to get us off to a good start with Rory (Burns)."

Smith, now back on top of the latest world Test batting rankings pulished Tuesday, will be returning to Ashes action this match after he missed the Headingley Test with concussion. &nbsp;

This is former Australia captain Smith's first Test series since completing a 12-month ban for ball-tampering.

He marked his return to the format with scores of 144 and 142 at Edgbaston before making 92 in the drawn second Test at Lord's -- where he was felled by a 92mph Jofra Archer bouncer.

Root said he was looking forward to seeing Archer bowl to Smith again.

"For everyone watching I'm sure it will be an exciting contest between two world-class players," Root added.

"What that Headingley win has done is make this a very special week this week and a great opportunity for us to build on what was a great win and carry that forward."

England team for the fourth Test: Rory Burns, Joe Denly, Joe Root (capt), Jason Roy, Ben Stokes, Jonny Bairstow (wkt), Jos Buttler, Craig Overton, Jofra Archer, Stuart Broad, Jack Leach

England have made one change in personnel to their side for the fourth Test against Australia at Old Trafford, with fast bowler Craig Overton replacing the dropped Chris Woakes.

England have made one change in personnel to their side for the fourth Test against Australia at Old Trafford, with fast bowler Craig Overton replacing the dropped Chris Woakes. Somerset quick Overton was only drafted into the squad after it was confirmed James Anderson, England's all-time leading wicket-taker, was ruled out with a calf injury. The same injury has prevented Anderson from bowling in the series since his four-over spell in the first innings of Australia's 251-run win in the first Test at Edgbaston. Overton comes into the side on the back of England's stunning one-wicket win in the third Test at Headingley, inspired by Ben Stokes's superb 135 not out, that saw them square the five-match Ashes series at 1-1. The 25-year-old Overton has played three Tests and bowled Australia star batsman Steve Smith on debut at Adelaide in December 2017. England captain Joe Root, explaining why Overton had been included, told reporters at Old Trafford during his pre-match press conference on Tuesday: "This ground does perform slightly differently with an extra bit of bounce and a taller bowler will give us an extra option to go to. "I feel like that balances out our attack really well in these conditions." Root added: "Craig is a competitor. You saw him come into Ashes cricket on debut and straight away he looked very much at home. "He got himself in a battle and I expect him to do that this week. I expect him to cause some issues for the Aussie batters." 'High-quality Roy' Root also confirmed the switch of positions between Jason Roy and Joe Denly, with World Cup winner Roy dropping down to number four after struggling as a Test opener. "Jason is a high-quality player, we all know that, and he might be better suited at four," Root said. "I think to play in an Ashes series is very exciting and he was extremely excited to get the chance to open the batting, but I think that he might be better suited for the middle order on the evidence we have seen over the last three games. "It's a great opportunity for him to make it his own and we have seen him play enough international cricket to know what he can do when he gets himself in, so hopefully batting lower down allows him to do that. "Joe (Denly) has played some good cricket throughout the summer, he has got himself in and he was very good in that second innings (at Headingley when he made a fifty). "It's a great opportunity for him to get us off to a good start with Rory (Burns)." Smith, now back on top of the latest world Test batting rankings pulished Tuesday, will be returning to Ashes action this match after he missed the Headingley Test with concussion. This is former Australia captain Smith's first Test series since completing a 12-month ban for ball-tampering. He marked his return to the format with scores of 144 and 142 at Edgbaston before making 92 in the drawn second Test at Lord's -- where he was felled by a 92mph Jofra Archer bouncer. Root said he was looking forward to seeing Archer bowl to Smith again. "For everyone watching I'm sure it will be an exciting contest between two world-class players," Root added. "What that Headingley win has done is make this a very special week this week and a great opportunity for us to build on what was a great win and carry that forward." England team for the fourth Test: Rory Burns, Joe Denly, Joe Root (capt), Jason Roy, Ben Stokes, Jonny Bairstow (wkt), Jos Buttler, Craig Overton, Jofra Archer, Stuart Broad, Jack Leach

England call up Craig Overton for fourth Ashes Test

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