French&nbsp;financial prosecutors (PNF) have been searching the headquarters of 'France 2023' as part of a preliminary investigation into the management of the&nbsp;rugby&nbsp;World Cup organising committee, the PNF said on Wednesday. "In early October 2022, the PNF opened a preliminary investigation into charges of favouritism, influence peddling, corruption and any other related offence relating to the management of GIP France 2023. The investigation was entrusted to the Paris research section (gendarmerie)," the PNF said in a statement to Reuters.

"It follows a joint report from the Inspectorate General of Finance and the Inspectorate General of Education, Sport and Research. "A search is under way at various points, including the headquarters of GIP France 2023." France 2023 said in a statement to Reuters that the search was "a continuation of the mission of the General Inspectorate of Finances, mandated this summer by the government to verify the management of the entities of the Organizing Committee (GIP, GIE and Endowment Fund) with the General Inspectorate of National Education, Sport and Research.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/jessica-korda-ruled-out-of-remainder-of-lpga-season-with-injury-concerns-532553">Jessica Korda ruled out of remainder of LPGA season with injury concerns</a>

"France 2023 will not comment further on the subject." The&nbsp;rugby&nbsp;World Cup in France will be held from Sept 8-Oct 28, 2023. Last month, the CEO of France 2023, Claude Atcher, was sacked after a report found that he had overseen "an extremely degraded social environment" at the organising committee.

French financial prosecutors (PNF) have been searching the headquarters of 'France 2023' as part of a preliminary investigation into the management of the rugby World Cup organising committee, the PNF said on Wednesday.

French financial prosecutors (PNF) have been searching the headquarters of 'France 2023' as part of a preliminary investigation into the management of the rugby World Cup organising committee, the PNF said on Wednesday. "In early October 2022, the PNF opened a preliminary investigation into charges of favouritism, influence peddling, corruption and any other related offence relating to the management of GIP France 2023. The investigation was entrusted to the Paris research section (gendarmerie)," the PNF said in a statement to Reuters. "It follows a joint report from the Inspectorate General of Finance and the Inspectorate General of Education, Sport and Research. "A search is under way at various points, including the headquarters of GIP France 2023." France 2023 said in a statement to Reuters that the search was "a continuation of the mission of the General Inspectorate of Finances, mandated this summer by the government to verify the management of the entities of the Organizing Committee (GIP, GIE and Endowment Fund) with the General Inspectorate of National Education, Sport and Research. ALSO READ | Jessica Korda ruled out of remainder of LPGA season with injury concerns "France 2023 will not comment further on the subject." The rugby World Cup in France will be held from Sept 8-Oct 28, 2023. Last month, the CEO of France 2023, Claude Atcher, was sacked after a report found that he had overseen "an extremely degraded social environment" at the organising committee.

Prosecutors search France 2023 offices as part of financial preliminary investigation

More miseries follow suit for the Sri Lankan cricketer Danushka Gunathilaka. The left-handed batter, whose image has been tarnished after being involved in rape charges,&nbsp;has been&nbsp;accused of sexually assaulting a woman in Australia on several occasions before choking her immensely. He allegedly choked her so hard that the woman had to require&nbsp;a brain scan, as reported by a local media on Wednesday (November 09).

The 31-year-old Gunathilaka has been under the scanner after being&nbsp;charged with four counts of sexual assault and already being denied bail. Despite all the serious accusations, the senior batter maintains being innocent. In a statement, shared by his law firm, it pointed out, "Danushka Gunathilaka maintains his innocence of all charges. Given the early stages of proceedings, we do not wish to make any further comment and will allow for the matter to be properly ventilated before the Court."

Speaking about the whole incident, Gunathilaka was reportedly in touch with a woman via a dating app before they met in person recently. They hit it off and then travelled by ferry to the woman's house. After several drinks, the batter allegedly forced himself on her multiple times and even refused to wear a protection. Sri Lanka Cricket has suspended the batsman "from all forms of the game with immediate effect".

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/danushka-gunathilaka-suspended-by-slc-from-all-forms-of-cricket-following-sexual-assault-charges-531805">Danushka Gunathilaka suspended by SLC from all forms of cricket following sexual assault charges</a>

Gunathilaka's life has turned upside down ever since he was caught in the middle of this controversy Down Under. The cricketer was arrested on Sunday (November 06) shortly after Dasun Shanaka-led Sri Lanka bowed out of the ongoing T20 World Cup, with a defeat to England in their last Super 12 round. Following this, he was suspended with immediate effect from the Sri Lanka Cricket Board (SLC), making him ineligible for selection from all forms of cricket.

Media release of the SLC:

The Executive Committee of Sri Lanka Cricket decided to suspend national player Danushka Gunathilaka from all forms of cricket with immediate effect and will not consider him for any selections after being informed that Mr. Gunathilaka was arrested and charged with sexual assault of a woman in Australia.

Furthermore, Sri Lanka Cricket will take the necessary steps to promptly carry out an inquiry into the alleged offense, and, upon conclusion of the aforementioned court case in Australia, steps will be taken to penalize the said player if found guilty.

Sri Lanka Cricket wishes to emphasize that it adopts a “zero tolerance” policy for any such conduct by a player and will provide all the required support to the Australian law enforcement authorities to carry out an impartial inquiry into the incident.

More miseries follow suit for the Sri Lankan cricketer Danushka Gunathilaka. The left-handed batter, whose image has been tarnished after being involved in rape charges, has been accused of sexually assaulting a woman in Australia on several occasions before choking her immensely.

More miseries follow suit for the Sri Lankan cricketer Danushka Gunathilaka. The left-handed batter, whose image has been tarnished after being involved in rape charges, has been accused of sexually assaulting a woman in Australia on several occasions before choking her immensely. He allegedly choked her so hard that the woman had to require a brain scan, as reported by a local media on Wednesday (November 09). The 31-year-old Gunathilaka has been under the scanner after being charged with four counts of sexual assault and already being denied bail. Despite all the serious accusations, the senior batter maintains being innocent. In a statement, shared by his law firm, it pointed out, "Danushka Gunathilaka maintains his innocence of all charges. Given the early stages of proceedings, we do not wish to make any further comment and will allow for the matter to be properly ventilated before the Court." Speaking about the whole incident, Gunathilaka was reportedly in touch with a woman via a dating app before they met in person recently. They hit it off and then travelled by ferry to the woman's house. After several drinks, the batter allegedly forced himself on her multiple times and even refused to wear a protection. Sri Lanka Cricket has suspended the batsman "from all forms of the game with immediate effect". ALSO READ | Danushka Gunathilaka suspended by SLC from all forms of cricket following sexual assault charges Gunathilaka's life has turned upside down ever since he was caught in the middle of this controversy Down Under. The cricketer was arrested on Sunday (November 06) shortly after Dasun Shanaka-led Sri Lanka bowed out of the ongoing T20 World Cup, with a defeat to England in their last Super 12 round. Following this, he was suspended with immediate effect from the Sri Lanka Cricket Board (SLC), making him ineligible for selection from all forms of cricket. Media release of the SLC: The Executive Committee of Sri Lanka Cricket decided to suspend national player Danushka Gunathilaka from all forms of cricket with immediate effect and will not consider him for any selections after being informed that Mr. Gunathilaka was arrested and charged with sexual assault of a woman in Australia. Furthermore, Sri Lanka Cricket will take the necessary steps to promptly carry out an inquiry into the alleged offense, and, upon conclusion of the aforementioned court case in Australia, steps will be taken to penalize the said player if found guilty. Sri Lanka Cricket wishes to emphasize that it adopts a “zero tolerance” policy for any such conduct by a player and will provide all the required support to the Australian law enforcement authorities to carry out an impartial inquiry into the incident.

Problems aplenty for Danushka Gunathilaka! SL batter accused of choking woman during alleged rape assault

Kazakhstan began their Billie Jean King Cup finals campaign with victory over hosts Britain on Tuesday while seven-times champions Australia saw off Slovakia in the opening tie. Formerly called the Fed Cup, the event was renamed in honour of American 12-time major winner King and restructured into a 'World Cup of&nbsp;tennis' format concluding with 12 nations competing over one week for the title.

Yulia Putintseva and Briton Katie Boulter looked evenly matched when they took one set apiece before the Kazakh 27-year-old stepped up a gear and stormed into a 4-0 lead in the decider before sealing a 4-6 6-3 6-2 victory. Wimbledon champion Elena Rybakina then sealed the tie in 73 minutes by beating Harriet Dart, winning seven games in a row at one point to win 6-1 6-4 and give Kazakhstan an unassailable 2-0 lead.

"I think she's an incredible player. She's Wimbledon champion for a reason, and she brought a very high level from the start. I thought she played a very clean match," Dart told reporters. "I really don't think I played that bad. I thought that she kind of took things into her own hands. She's definitely one of the few players on the tour that can kind of take the match out of your hands."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/frances-caroline-garcia-defeats-aryna-sabalenka-to-seal-wta-finals-victory-532098">France's Caroline Garcia defeats Aryna Sabalenka to seal WTA Finals victory</a>

Britain were dealt a huge blow last month when former U.S. Open champion and their highest-ranked player Emma Raducanu pulled out of the team because of a wrist injury. Britain next face Spain on Thursday.

AUSTRALIA WIN

Earlier, Australia's Ajla Tomljanovic and Storm Sanders won their singles matches in straight sets in their 2-1 win over Slovakia in the opening tie of Group B. Sanders beat Viktoria Kuzmova 6-4 6-3 while Tomljanovic eased past Anna Karolina Schmiedlova 6-1 6-2. Tomljanovic has had a good season in the second half of the year, capped by her quarter-final runs at Wimbledon and the U.S. Open. She has since reached a career high ranking of 33. "If I have to put it to one thing, it's just where my head's at in my life. I think that translates to the court. I'm happy,&nbsp;tennis&nbsp;is fun again," she said. "Even when I'm losing, I'm finding joy, which is really all it's ever been and it's supposed to be. I lost it a little bit there for a year or so. But it happens, it's okay." Slovakia did manage to get on the board when the doubles pairing of Kuzmova and Tereza Mihalikova beat Sanders and Ellen Perez 2-6 6-3 10-6.

Kazakhstan began their Billie Jean King Cup finals campaign with victory over hosts Britain on Tuesday while seven-times champions Australia saw off Slovakia in the opening tie.

Kazakhstan began their Billie Jean King Cup finals campaign with victory over hosts Britain on Tuesday while seven-times champions Australia saw off Slovakia in the opening tie. Formerly called the Fed Cup, the event was renamed in honour of American 12-time major winner King and restructured into a 'World Cup of tennis' format concluding with 12 nations competing over one week for the title. Yulia Putintseva and Briton Katie Boulter looked evenly matched when they took one set apiece before the Kazakh 27-year-old stepped up a gear and stormed into a 4-0 lead in the decider before sealing a 4-6 6-3 6-2 victory. Wimbledon champion Elena Rybakina then sealed the tie in 73 minutes by beating Harriet Dart, winning seven games in a row at one point to win 6-1 6-4 and give Kazakhstan an unassailable 2-0 lead. "I think she's an incredible player. She's Wimbledon champion for a reason, and she brought a very high level from the start. I thought she played a very clean match," Dart told reporters. "I really don't think I played that bad. I thought that she kind of took things into her own hands. She's definitely one of the few players on the tour that can kind of take the match out of your hands." ALSO READ | France's Caroline Garcia defeats Aryna Sabalenka to seal WTA Finals victory Britain were dealt a huge blow last month when former U.S. Open champion and their highest-ranked player Emma Raducanu pulled out of the team because of a wrist injury. Britain next face Spain on Thursday. AUSTRALIA WIN Earlier, Australia's Ajla Tomljanovic and Storm Sanders won their singles matches in straight sets in their 2-1 win over Slovakia in the opening tie of Group B. Sanders beat Viktoria Kuzmova 6-4 6-3 while Tomljanovic eased past Anna Karolina Schmiedlova 6-1 6-2. Tomljanovic has had a good season in the second half of the year, capped by her quarter-final runs at Wimbledon and the U.S. Open. She has since reached a career high ranking of 33. "If I have to put it to one thing, it's just where my head's at in my life. I think that translates to the court. I'm happy, tennis is fun again," she said. "Even when I'm losing, I'm finding joy, which is really all it's ever been and it's supposed to be. I lost it a little bit there for a year or so. But it happens, it's okay." Slovakia did manage to get on the board when the doubles pairing of Kuzmova and Tereza Mihalikova beat Sanders and Ellen Perez 2-6 6-3 10-6.

Kazakhstan beat hosts Britain in Billie Jean King Cup finals, Australia go past Slovakia

The stage is set for the T20 World Cup 2022 semi-finals. After a riveting end to the Super 12 round, the four teams who are still alive in the competition are India, New Zealand, England and Pakistan. While the Black Caps, the 2021 runners-up, were the first to qualify for the semis, England and India followed suit before Pakistan rode on luck and a hard-fought win over Bangladesh to become the final team to proceed to the last four round.&nbsp;

While New Zealand take on the one-time winners Pakistan in the first semi-final, at the SCG, Sydeny on Wednesday (November 09), the Rohit Sharma-led Men in Blue lock horns with England in the second knockout game, at the Adelaide Oval, Adelaide on Thursday (November 10). As it has been a rain-marred tournament, with many games being abandoned without a ball being bowled, here's a look at what are the rules for the reserve day if rain once again makes an appearance and plays spoilsport during the semis and the final, on November 13 at the MCG, Melbourne:

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/hes-earned-the-right-to-never-be-ben-stokes-all-praise-for-virat-kohli-ahead-of-india-eng-t20-wc-sf-532212">'He’s earned the right to...' - Ben Stokes all praise for Virat Kohli ahead of India-ENG T20 WC semi-final</a>

In order&nbsp;to prevent washouts in the knockouts, the International Cricket Council (ICC) came forward with a reserve day. It is to be noted that the reserve day will only come into effect&nbsp;if the match proceedings are hampered, with conditions applied:

<section>
T20 World Cup 2022: All you need to know about the Reserve Day rule -

The reserve day will come into play only if at least 10 overs per side aren't possible on the scheduled dates (of the semi-finals and final). If the&nbsp;match doesn't even produce a complete 10-over-a-side contest, the game would be enter the reserve day. In case the two teams cross the 10-over mark and then rain plays spoilsport, then the outcome will be determined courtesy of the DLS method and won't be stretched to the following day.

India, England, Pakistan and NZ have a combined of three trophies between them. Barring NZ, all have won the trophy at least once. Who will walk away with the mega title this time around? Only time will tell...
</section>

The stage is set for the T20 World Cup 2022 semi-finals. After a riveting end to the Super 12 round, the four teams who are still alive in the competition are India, New Zealand, England and Pakistan.

The stage is set for the T20 World Cup 2022 semi-finals. After a riveting end to the Super 12 round, the four teams who are still alive in the competition are India, New Zealand, England and Pakistan. While the Black Caps, the 2021 runners-up, were the first to qualify for the semis, England and India followed suit before Pakistan rode on luck and a hard-fought win over Bangladesh to become the final team to proceed to the last four round. While New Zealand take on the one-time winners Pakistan in the first semi-final, at the SCG, Sydeny on Wednesday (November 09), the Rohit Sharma-led Men in Blue lock horns with England in the second knockout game, at the Adelaide Oval, Adelaide on Thursday (November 10). As it has been a rain-marred tournament, with many games being abandoned without a ball being bowled, here's a look at what are the rules for the reserve day if rain once again makes an appearance and plays spoilsport during the semis and the final, on November 13 at the MCG, Melbourne: ALSO READ | 'He’s earned the right to...' - Ben Stokes all praise for Virat Kohli ahead of India-ENG T20 WC semi-final In order to prevent washouts in the knockouts, the International Cricket Council (ICC) came forward with a reserve day. It is to be noted that the reserve day will only come into effect if the match proceedings are hampered, with conditions applied: T20 World Cup 2022: All you need to know about the Reserve Day rule - The reserve day will come into play only if at least 10 overs per side aren't possible on the scheduled dates (of the semi-finals and final). If the match doesn't even produce a complete 10-over-a-side contest, the game would be enter the reserve day. In case the two teams cross the 10-over mark and then rain plays spoilsport, then the outcome will be determined courtesy of the DLS method and won't be stretched to the following day. India, England, Pakistan and NZ have a combined of three trophies between them. Barring NZ, all have won the trophy at least once. Who will walk away with the mega title this time around? Only time will tell...

T20 WC 2022: EXPLAINED! What is the reserve day scenario for NZ vs Pak, India-ENG semifinals & final

France's Caroline Garcia scored the biggest victory of her career with a straight-sets defeat of&nbsp;Aryna&nbsp;Sabalenka to win the season-ending WTA Finals on Monday. Garcia relied on a superb service game to overpower her Belarusian opponent 7-6 (7/4), 6-4 at Fort Worth, Texas.&nbsp;The 29-year-old from Lyon is only the second French player to win the WTA title after Amelie Mauresmo in 2005.

With sixth-seeded Garcia and seventh-seeded Sabalenka serving beautifully throughout, Monday's final was settled by the finest of margins. Garcia seized the initiative in the first set tie-break after both women had held to get it 6-6.&nbsp;Remarkably, neither player conceded a break point during a hard-fought first set. But the question of who would blink first was answered in the breaker as Sabalenka's composure suddenly deserted her.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/denmarks-holger-rune-tuns-novak-djokovic-to-clinch-paris-masters-531756">Denmark’s Holger Rune stuns Novak Djokovic to clinch Paris Masters</a>

A wayward Sabalenka backhand return plopped into the net to give Garcia a 4/2 lead in the tie-break.&nbsp; On the next point, Sabalenka double-faulted to hand the Frenchwoman a 5/2 lead. Garcia brought up four set points with an ace for a 6/2 lead. Although Sabalenka recovered to win the next two points, she double-faulted again to hand Garcia the set. A clearly rattled Sabalenka was soon in trouble in the second set, suffering a break on the first game after Garcia drilled a winner up the line. That break proved decisive as Garcia never looked like surrendering the initiative, holding for the remainder of the set before serving for the match at 5-4.

She earned her first match point when Sabalenka yanked a backhand return wide for a 40-30 lead.&nbsp; Although Sabalenka saved that match point with a backhand down the line, Garcia regained match point with a booming serve before converting on the next point.

France's Caroline Garcia scored the biggest victory of her career with a straight-sets defeat of Aryna Sabalenka to win the season-ending WTA Finals on Monday. Garcia relied on a superb service game to overpower her Belarusian opponent 7-6 (7/4), 6-4 at Fort Worth, Texas.

France's Caroline Garcia scored the biggest victory of her career with a straight-sets defeat of Aryna Sabalenka to win the season-ending WTA Finals on Monday. Garcia relied on a superb service game to overpower her Belarusian opponent 7-6 (7/4), 6-4 at Fort Worth, Texas. The 29-year-old from Lyon is only the second French player to win the WTA title after Amelie Mauresmo in 2005. With sixth-seeded Garcia and seventh-seeded Sabalenka serving beautifully throughout, Monday's final was settled by the finest of margins. Garcia seized the initiative in the first set tie-break after both women had held to get it 6-6. Remarkably, neither player conceded a break point during a hard-fought first set. But the question of who would blink first was answered in the breaker as Sabalenka's composure suddenly deserted her. ALSO READ | Denmark’s Holger Rune stuns Novak Djokovic to clinch Paris Masters A wayward Sabalenka backhand return plopped into the net to give Garcia a 4/2 lead in the tie-break. On the next point, Sabalenka double-faulted to hand the Frenchwoman a 5/2 lead. Garcia brought up four set points with an ace for a 6/2 lead. Although Sabalenka recovered to win the next two points, she double-faulted again to hand Garcia the set. A clearly rattled Sabalenka was soon in trouble in the second set, suffering a break on the first game after Garcia drilled a winner up the line. That break proved decisive as Garcia never looked like surrendering the initiative, holding for the remainder of the set before serving for the match at 5-4. She earned her first match point when Sabalenka yanked a backhand return wide for a 40-30 lead. Although Sabalenka saved that match point with a backhand down the line, Garcia regained match point with a booming serve before converting on the next point.

France's Caroline Garcia defeats Aryna Sabalenka to seal WTA Finals victory

Team India have entered the semi-finals of the T20 World Cup 2022 edition in Australia. They are now gearing up for their face-off versus 2010 winners England in the semis and will aim to get past Jos Buttler &amp; Co. to enter their third T20 WC final overall. While India have not had an easy ride reaching the last four, they have not had much respite off the field as well with continuous travel.&nbsp;

India started their campaign in Melbourne and then travelled to Sydney before playing their last three games in Perth, Adelaide and Melbourne, respectively. They are now set to take the field at the Adelaide Oval, Adelaide for the semis and amid the regular travel, skipper Rohit Sharma, head coach Rahul Dravid and former captain Virat Kohli's heartfelt gestures have now come out in the open. As per reports, the Indian team management have taken an important step to ensure the pacers get enough rest and recover in time amid the regular flight travels.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/if-i-was-babar-i-would-akram-unimpressed-with-paks-dressing-room-videos-being-released-online-531916">If I was Babar, I would...' - Akram unimpressed with PAK's dressing room videos being released online</a>

In this regard, Rohit, Dravid and Kohli have sacrificed their business class seats on flights during the T20 WC.&nbsp;“Before the tournament, we decided that since the pace bowlers clock the maximum mileage on field day in, day out, they need to stretch their legs,” a member of the support staff told Indian Express while explaining the unique move.&nbsp;As per the ICC norms&nbsp;for all 16 teams; each squad gets as many as four business-class seats during a flight. Thus, usually such seats are reserved for captain, coach, team manager and a senior player.&nbsp;

Needless to say, Dravid, Rohit and Kohli's act is generous enough for the pace department, featuring Arshdeep Singh, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Md Shami and all-rounder Hardik Pandya. So far, the quadret have impressed a lot with Arshdeep having ten scalps, Shami and Bhuvi with six and four wickets respectively whereas Hardik has also chipped in with regular breakthroughs (having eight scalps from five games).

Team India have entered the semi-finals of the T20 World Cup 2022 edition in Australia. They are now gearing up for their face-off versus 2010 winners England in the semis and will aim to get past Jos Buttler & Co.

Team India have entered the semi-finals of the T20 World Cup 2022 edition in Australia. They are now gearing up for their face-off versus 2010 winners England in the semis and will aim to get past Jos Buttler & Co. to enter their third T20 WC final overall. While India have not had an easy ride reaching the last four, they have not had much respite off the field as well with continuous travel. India started their campaign in Melbourne and then travelled to Sydney before playing their last three games in Perth, Adelaide and Melbourne, respectively. They are now set to take the field at the Adelaide Oval, Adelaide for the semis and amid the regular travel, skipper Rohit Sharma, head coach Rahul Dravid and former captain Virat Kohli's heartfelt gestures have now come out in the open. As per reports, the Indian team management have taken an important step to ensure the pacers get enough rest and recover in time amid the regular flight travels. ALSO READ | If I was Babar, I would...' - Akram unimpressed with PAK's dressing room videos being released online In this regard, Rohit, Dravid and Kohli have sacrificed their business class seats on flights during the T20 WC. “Before the tournament, we decided that since the pace bowlers clock the maximum mileage on field day in, day out, they need to stretch their legs,” a member of the support staff told Indian Express while explaining the unique move. As per the ICC norms for all 16 teams; each squad gets as many as four business-class seats during a flight. Thus, usually such seats are reserved for captain, coach, team manager and a senior player. Needless to say, Dravid, Rohit and Kohli's act is generous enough for the pace department, featuring Arshdeep Singh, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Md Shami and all-rounder Hardik Pandya. So far, the quadret have impressed a lot with Arshdeep having ten scalps, Shami and Bhuvi with six and four wickets respectively whereas Hardik has also chipped in with regular breakthroughs (having eight scalps from five games).

T20 WC: Rohit, Dravid, Kohli have given up their business class seats for Indian pacers - Reports

Seven-times Formula One world champion&nbsp;Lewis&nbsp;Hamilton was made an honorary citizen of Brazil on Monday by the country's lower house of Congress and dedicated the honour to his boyhood idol, the late Brazilian triple world champion Ayrton Senna. "I feel like now I'm one of you," the Mercedes driver said in a crowded session of Congress packed with admirers in Brasilia days ahead of this year's Brazilian Grand Prix on Nov. 11 in Sao Paulo.

Hamilton delighted Brazilians by unfurling the Brazilian flag from his Mercedes during the slowing down lap after winning the last year at Sao Paulo's Interlagos circuit and later carrying the flag onto the podium. The lower house passed in June a bill to make the 37-year-old an honorary citizen that was proposed by congressman Andre Figueiredo after the British driver won the 2021 Brazilian Grand Prix for the third time.

Hamilton clinched his first world championship at Interlagos in 2008, beating Ferrari's then local favourite Felipe Massa with a devastating overtake on the last corner of the last lap of the final round of the season. A smiling Hamilton, wearing a royal blue suit, received Brazil's legislative medal of merit, a diploma and made a speech thanking his fans and dedicating the honour to Senna.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-club-liverpool-put-up-for-sale-by-fenway-sports-group-531947">Premier League club Liverpool put up for sale by Fenway Sports Group</a>

"I have so many amazing memories of Brazil," Hamilton said. "And particularly 2021. Knowing you guys would cheer me on the way was one of the most special moments of my entire life. I can't wait for us to continue to strive ahead," he added.

At the ceremony, congressmen also highlighted Hamilton's social activism, including his defence of minority groups and environmental causes. Hamilton pledged to continue pushing for diversity and said that visiting the Amazon rainforest was one of his dreams.

Seven-times Formula One world champion Lewis Hamilton was made an honorary citizen of Brazil on Monday by the country's lower house of Congress and dedicated the honour to his boyhood idol, the late Brazilian triple world champion Ayrton Senna.

Seven-times Formula One world champion Lewis Hamilton was made an honorary citizen of Brazil on Monday by the country's lower house of Congress and dedicated the honour to his boyhood idol, the late Brazilian triple world champion Ayrton Senna. "I feel like now I'm one of you," the Mercedes driver said in a crowded session of Congress packed with admirers in Brasilia days ahead of this year's Brazilian Grand Prix on Nov. 11 in Sao Paulo. Hamilton delighted Brazilians by unfurling the Brazilian flag from his Mercedes during the slowing down lap after winning the last year at Sao Paulo's Interlagos circuit and later carrying the flag onto the podium. The lower house passed in June a bill to make the 37-year-old an honorary citizen that was proposed by congressman Andre Figueiredo after the British driver won the 2021 Brazilian Grand Prix for the third time. Hamilton clinched his first world championship at Interlagos in 2008, beating Ferrari's then local favourite Felipe Massa with a devastating overtake on the last corner of the last lap of the final round of the season. A smiling Hamilton, wearing a royal blue suit, received Brazil's legislative medal of merit, a diploma and made a speech thanking his fans and dedicating the honour to Senna. ALSO READ | Premier League club Liverpool put up for sale by Fenway Sports Group "I have so many amazing memories of Brazil," Hamilton said. "And particularly 2021. Knowing you guys would cheer me on the way was one of the most special moments of my entire life. I can't wait for us to continue to strive ahead," he added. At the ceremony, congressmen also highlighted Hamilton's social activism, including his defence of minority groups and environmental causes. Hamilton pledged to continue pushing for diversity and said that visiting the Amazon rainforest was one of his dreams.

Now I'm one of you: Seven-time F1 champ Lewis Hamilton tells Brazil as he becomes honorary citizen

The Premier League continues to make heads turn. There is lots happening in the PL as the action has kept the fans glued to the tv sets across the globe. For Southampton FC, it hasn't been a memorable campaign so far. They are currently languishing at the bottom of the table, at the 18th spot, with only three wins and equal number of draws but have lost as many as eight matches in the 2021/22 season.

Despite this, there is something to cheer for the Southampton FC fans. UK's newly-elected Prime Minister Rishi Sunak is a big fan of the club.&nbsp;At a hustings event in Exeter in in late October, Sunak mentioned about Southampton FC when asked&nbsp;what would've been his line of work had he not entered politics. To this, the 42-year-old said, "‘I’m a massive football fan, I’m from Southampton and if I would get to be able to run Southampton [I would do that]."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/europa-league-complete-draw-manchester-united-to-take-on-fc-barcelona-in-playoffs-for-a-spot-in-last-16-531951">Europa League complete draw: Manchester United to take on FC Barcelona in playoffs for a spot in last 16</a>

Following the revelation from UK PM, Sunak received a massive uproar from the crowd and said, "Oh, wow, is there a Saints fan here? Look at that, brilliant. Well, there’s three of them. Amazing. Well, if I could run Southampton Football Club, I would be a very happy man.’

Rishi Sunak - An ardent fan of Southampton FC

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Taken 32 years but worth the wait. 
 
Now let’s hope it lasts 😬 <a href="https://t.co/Wxv7e1suFE">pic.twitter.com/Wxv7e1suFE</a>
— Rishi Sunak (@RishiSunak) <a href="https://twitter.com/RishiSunak/status/1325014586177822723?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 7, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Talking about the Southampton FC, also known as the Saints,&nbsp;legend Matt Le Tissier is Sunak's favourite player from the club. In their last outing, the Saints lost to Newcastle United FC 4-1 as their woes continues in the ongoing PL season. Their next game in the championship will be against the eighth-ranked Liverpool, who has won five and lost four games.&nbsp;

Despite their barren run in the Premier League, the&nbsp;James Ward-Prowse-led Southampton FC will look to draw some inspiration in their upcoming games from the fact that they are closely followed by UK PM Sunak.&nbsp;

The Premier League continues to make heads turn. There is lots happening in the PL as the action has kept the fans glued to the tv sets across the globe. For Southampton FC, it hasn't been a memorable campaign so far.

The Premier League continues to make heads turn. There is lots happening in the PL as the action has kept the fans glued to the tv sets across the globe. For Southampton FC, it hasn't been a memorable campaign so far. They are currently languishing at the bottom of the table, at the 18th spot, with only three wins and equal number of draws but have lost as many as eight matches in the 2021/22 season. Despite this, there is something to cheer for the Southampton FC fans. UK's newly-elected Prime Minister Rishi Sunak is a big fan of the club. At a hustings event in Exeter in in late October, Sunak mentioned about Southampton FC when asked what would've been his line of work had he not entered politics. To this, the 42-year-old said, "‘I’m a massive football fan, I’m from Southampton and if I would get to be able to run Southampton [I would do that]." ALSO READ | Europa League complete draw: Manchester United to take on FC Barcelona in playoffs for a spot in last 16 Following the revelation from UK PM, Sunak received a massive uproar from the crowd and said, "Oh, wow, is there a Saints fan here? Look at that, brilliant. Well, there’s three of them. Amazing. Well, if I could run Southampton Football Club, I would be a very happy man.’ Rishi Sunak - An ardent fan of Southampton FC Taken 32 years but worth the wait. Now let’s hope it lasts 😬 pic.twitter.com/Wxv7e1suFE — Rishi Sunak (@RishiSunak) November 7, 2020 × Talking about the Southampton FC, also known as the Saints, legend Matt Le Tissier is Sunak's favourite player from the club. In their last outing, the Saints lost to Newcastle United FC 4-1 as their woes continues in the ongoing PL season. Their next game in the championship will be against the eighth-ranked Liverpool, who has won five and lost four games. Despite their barren run in the Premier League, the James Ward-Prowse-led Southampton FC will look to draw some inspiration in their upcoming games from the fact that they are closely followed by UK PM Sunak.

Not Man United, Man City or Chelsea! Here's which Premier League team UK PM Rishi Sunak supports

After a riveting Super 12 round in the T20 World Cup 2022 edition, the stage is set for the two semi-finals. The first semi-final match will take place on Wednesday (November 09) where Pakistan will lock horns with Kane Williamson's New Zealand. The Black Caps, who were the runners-up in the 2021 edition, topped Group 1 whereas Babar Azam &amp; Co. somehow managed to enter the semi-finals after the Netherlands' 13-run win over South Africa.

Both sides have had a contrasting campaign but anything can happen on the big day. In the 2021 T20 WC, New Zealand had lost to Pakistan by five wickets in a low-scoring contest. The two teams had also met during the inaugural edition's semi-finals, where Shoaib Malik-led Pakistan beat the Daniel Vettori-led Kiwis. Overall, both sides have met on five occasions in Men's ICC semis, with the Asian giants having a 3-2 lead. Hence, it is expected to be a thrilling encounter and the match is likely to go down to the wire with plenty at stakẹ.

Will NZ enter their second T20 WC final in a row or will the Pakistan line-up now step up and perform at their very best in the knockouts? All the questions will be answered by Wednesday evening.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-world-cup-2022-new-zealand-vs-pakistan-weather-report-will-rain-play-spoilsport-in-first-semi-final-532114">T20 World Cup 2022, New Zealand vs Pakistan weather report: Will rain play spoilsport in first semi-final?</a>

Here's everything you need to know&nbsp;about the live-streaming details of the match:&nbsp;

Where will New Zealand vs Pakistan T20 World Cup 2022 semi-final&nbsp;match be played?&nbsp;

New Zealand vs Pakistan T20 World Cup 2022 semi-final will be held at The Sydney Cricket Ground, Sydney.

At what time will&nbsp;New Zealand vs Pakistan T20 World Cup 2022 semi-final match get underway?

New Zealand vs Pakistan&nbsp;T20 World Cup 2022 semi-final match will kick off at 1:30 PM IST.

Which TV channel in India will broadcast the New Zealand vs Pakistan T20 World Cup 2022 semi-final?

New Zealand vs Pakistan T20 World Cup 2022 semi-final's live telecast will be available on Star Sports.

Where can one watch the live streaming of New Zealand vs Pakistan T20 World Cup 2022 semi-final&nbsp;in India?

New Zealand vs Pakistan T20 World Cup 2022 semi-final match's live streaming will be on Disney+Hotstar.&nbsp;

After a riveting Super 12 round in the T20 World Cup 2022 edition, the stage is set for the two semi-finals. The first semi-final match will take place on Wednesday (November 09) where Pakistan will lock horns with Kane Williamson's New Zealand.

After a riveting Super 12 round in the T20 World Cup 2022 edition, the stage is set for the two semi-finals. The first semi-final match will take place on Wednesday (November 09) where Pakistan will lock horns with Kane Williamson's New Zealand. The Black Caps, who were the runners-up in the 2021 edition, topped Group 1 whereas Babar Azam & Co. somehow managed to enter the semi-finals after the Netherlands' 13-run win over South Africa. Both sides have had a contrasting campaign but anything can happen on the big day. In the 2021 T20 WC, New Zealand had lost to Pakistan by five wickets in a low-scoring contest. The two teams had also met during the inaugural edition's semi-finals, where Shoaib Malik-led Pakistan beat the Daniel Vettori-led Kiwis. Overall, both sides have met on five occasions in Men's ICC semis, with the Asian giants having a 3-2 lead. Hence, it is expected to be a thrilling encounter and the match is likely to go down to the wire with plenty at stakẹ. Will NZ enter their second T20 WC final in a row or will the Pakistan line-up now step up and perform at their very best in the knockouts? All the questions will be answered by Wednesday evening. ALSO READ | T20 World Cup 2022, New Zealand vs Pakistan weather report: Will rain play spoilsport in first semi-final? Here's everything you need to know about the live-streaming details of the match: Where will New Zealand vs Pakistan T20 World Cup 2022 semi-final match be played? New Zealand vs Pakistan T20 World Cup 2022 semi-final will be held at The Sydney Cricket Ground, Sydney. At what time will New Zealand vs Pakistan T20 World Cup 2022 semi-final match get underway? New Zealand vs Pakistan T20 World Cup 2022 semi-final match will kick off at 1:30 PM IST. Which TV channel in India will broadcast the New Zealand vs Pakistan T20 World Cup 2022 semi-final? New Zealand vs Pakistan T20 World Cup 2022 semi-final's live telecast will be available on Star Sports. Where can one watch the live streaming of New Zealand vs Pakistan T20 World Cup 2022 semi-final in India? New Zealand vs Pakistan T20 World Cup 2022 semi-final match's live streaming will be on Disney+Hotstar.

T20 World Cup 2022, New Zealand vs Pakistan, Live Cricket Streaming: When and where to watch first semi-final?

The stage is set for the T20 World Cup 2022 semi-finals. While Pakistan will lock horns with New Zealand in the first semi-final, at the SCG, Sydney on Wednesday (November 09), India will take on England in the second semi-final on Thursday (November 10) at the Adelaide Oval, Adelaide. India and the Three Lions are set to lock horns for the first time in the Men's T20 WC since the 2012 edition and it is expected to go down to the wire.

Some big-ticket players will rub shoulders against each other such as Rohit Sharma, Jos Buttler, Virat Kohli, Ben Stokes, Hardik Pandya, Liam Livingstone, etc. Prior to the highly-awaited face-off, English all-rounder Stokes was all praise for in-form Kohli. The 31-year-old Stokes stated that he failed to understand why people had started to write off a player of Kohli's calibre during his struggle period, prior to the Asia Cup 2022 edition, and believes that it is improbable to do what Kohli has done with the bat across formats for years.

"Look at that form. How unbelievable it is. As you know, he had a not-so-loud couple of months and, for some reason, players like that will get written off. I’ve got no idea why. I think he’s earned the right to never be written off. You don’t produce the number and produce the innings that he does over all three formats," Stokes told reporters in Adelaide ahead of England's semi-final against Rohit-led Men in Blue.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-plays-some-shots-where-ben-stokes-on-suryakumar-yadav-ahead-of-india-eng-t20-wc-sf-clash-532147">'He plays some shots where.....' - Ben Stokes on Suryakumar Yadav ahead of India-ENG T20 WC SF clash</a>

“We as players and those who have played against him a lot, you never take anything he’s done in the game before into the game he’s got there. So just lay off a bit maybe," Stokes added.&nbsp;

Stokes also lauded another in-form batter from the Indian camp. Speaking about Suryakumar Yadav, he said, "Suryakumar obviously came in and set the world alight. He’s a fantastic player and plays some shots where you sort of are scratching your head sometimes."

Kohli is currently the leading run-getter in the T20 WC, with 245 runs in five games including three half-centuries under his belt. Meanwhile, SKY follows suit with 225 runs with equal number of fifties. India will hope for the star duo to come out all guns blazing versus the 2010 winners on Thursday evening.

The stage is set for the T20 World Cup 2022 semi-finals. While Pakistan will lock horns with New Zealand in the first semi-final, at the SCG, Sydney on Wednesday (November 09), India will take on England in the second semi-final on Thursday (November 10) at the Adelaide Oval, Adelaide.

The stage is set for the T20 World Cup 2022 semi-finals. While Pakistan will lock horns with New Zealand in the first semi-final, at the SCG, Sydney on Wednesday (November 09), India will take on England in the second semi-final on Thursday (November 10) at the Adelaide Oval, Adelaide. India and the Three Lions are set to lock horns for the first time in the Men's T20 WC since the 2012 edition and it is expected to go down to the wire. Some big-ticket players will rub shoulders against each other such as Rohit Sharma, Jos Buttler, Virat Kohli, Ben Stokes, Hardik Pandya, Liam Livingstone, etc. Prior to the highly-awaited face-off, English all-rounder Stokes was all praise for in-form Kohli. The 31-year-old Stokes stated that he failed to understand why people had started to write off a player of Kohli's calibre during his struggle period, prior to the Asia Cup 2022 edition, and believes that it is improbable to do what Kohli has done with the bat across formats for years. "Look at that form. How unbelievable it is. As you know, he had a not-so-loud couple of months and, for some reason, players like that will get written off. I’ve got no idea why. I think he’s earned the right to never be written off. You don’t produce the number and produce the innings that he does over all three formats," Stokes told reporters in Adelaide ahead of England's semi-final against Rohit-led Men in Blue. ALSO READ | 'He plays some shots where.....' - Ben Stokes on Suryakumar Yadav ahead of India-ENG T20 WC SF clash “We as players and those who have played against him a lot, you never take anything he’s done in the game before into the game he’s got there. So just lay off a bit maybe," Stokes added. Stokes also lauded another in-form batter from the Indian camp. Speaking about Suryakumar Yadav, he said, "Suryakumar obviously came in and set the world alight. He’s a fantastic player and plays some shots where you sort of are scratching your head sometimes." Kohli is currently the leading run-getter in the T20 WC, with 245 runs in five games including three half-centuries under his belt. Meanwhile, SKY follows suit with 225 runs with equal number of fifties. India will hope for the star duo to come out all guns blazing versus the 2010 winners on Thursday evening.

'He’s earned the right to...' - Ben Stokes all praise for Virat Kohli ahead of India-ENG T20 WC semi-final

Pakistan have had a topsy-turvy ride in the T20 World Cup 2022 edition in Australia. Having lost their Super 12 opener in a thrilling clash versus India, they also went down to Zimbabwe but won three in a row, and were helped by the Netherlands, to enter the semi-finals of the mega event. Now, they are set to face Kane Williamson-led New Zealand in the first of the two semi-finals of the showpiece event Down Under.

Ahead of Pakistan's semis clash versus New Zealand, former Aussie captain, Ricky Ponting has named Shaheen Shah Afridi as the key player from the Men in Green camp.&nbsp;Speaking to the ICC's official website, Punter said, "He might say that he's not back to 100 per cent just yet, but from what I've seen it looks like he's going along beautifully and he now holds the key for Pakistan progressing in the tournament. (I never had any doubt) as you just know what he's capable of when he's out there on the field.&nbsp;And as I said, even if he's not at 100 per cent, if he's operating at 90 per cent, he's still going to have more of an impact on games than most because of how good he is."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-plays-some-shots-where-ben-stokes-on-suryakumar-yadav-ahead-of-india-eng-t20-wc-sf-clash-532147">'He plays some shots where.....' - Ben Stokes on Suryakumar Yadav ahead of India-ENG T20 WC SF clash</a>

The two-time ODI World Cup-winning captain Ponting said, "So look, he might have had a few worries in the back of his own mind and the Pakistan hierarchy and coaching group might have had a few worries in their mind, but not anymore. He's got through really well so far and hopefully for them two more games to go.”

Talking about Shaheen's run so far in the T20 WC, the pacer started off slowly but ended the Super 12 round with a four-fer versus Bangladesh. Overall, he has accounted for eight wickets from five games in the main draw of the competition, at an average of&nbsp;14.75. Babar &amp; Co. will hope for him to run through the Kiwi batting line-up on Wednesday at the iconic SCG, Sydney and confirm a spot in the T20 WC final. Shaheen has always fancied playing against the Black Caps. He ended with a stunning 3 for 28 in 10 overs during the Pakistan-NZ group stage clash in the 2019 ODI WC and followed it up with a tidy spell when both sides met in the 2021 T20 WC Super 12 round, ending with 1 for 21. The last two Pak-NZ World Cup face-offs have resulted in a win for the Men in Green.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

Pakistan have had a topsy-turvy ride in the T20 World Cup 2022 edition in Australia. Having lost their Super 12 opener in a thrilling clash versus India, they also went down to Zimbabwe but won three in a row, and were helped by the Netherlands, to enter the semi-finals of the mega event.

Pakistan have had a topsy-turvy ride in the T20 World Cup 2022 edition in Australia. Having lost their Super 12 opener in a thrilling clash versus India, they also went down to Zimbabwe but won three in a row, and were helped by the Netherlands, to enter the semi-finals of the mega event. Now, they are set to face Kane Williamson-led New Zealand in the first of the two semi-finals of the showpiece event Down Under. Ahead of Pakistan's semis clash versus New Zealand, former Aussie captain, Ricky Ponting has named Shaheen Shah Afridi as the key player from the Men in Green camp. Speaking to the ICC's official website, Punter said, "He might say that he's not back to 100 per cent just yet, but from what I've seen it looks like he's going along beautifully and he now holds the key for Pakistan progressing in the tournament. (I never had any doubt) as you just know what he's capable of when he's out there on the field. And as I said, even if he's not at 100 per cent, if he's operating at 90 per cent, he's still going to have more of an impact on games than most because of how good he is." ALSO READ | 'He plays some shots where.....' - Ben Stokes on Suryakumar Yadav ahead of India-ENG T20 WC SF clash The two-time ODI World Cup-winning captain Ponting said, "So look, he might have had a few worries in the back of his own mind and the Pakistan hierarchy and coaching group might have had a few worries in their mind, but not anymore. He's got through really well so far and hopefully for them two more games to go.” Talking about Shaheen's run so far in the T20 WC, the pacer started off slowly but ended the Super 12 round with a four-fer versus Bangladesh. Overall, he has accounted for eight wickets from five games in the main draw of the competition, at an average of 14.75. Babar & Co. will hope for him to run through the Kiwi batting line-up on Wednesday at the iconic SCG, Sydney and confirm a spot in the T20 WC final. Shaheen has always fancied playing against the Black Caps. He ended with a stunning 3 for 28 in 10 overs during the Pakistan-NZ group stage clash in the 2019 ODI WC and followed it up with a tidy spell when both sides met in the 2021 T20 WC Super 12 round, ending with 1 for 21. The last two Pak-NZ World Cup face-offs have resulted in a win for the Men in Green. ×

T20 WC 2022: Not Babar Azam! Ricky Ponting names key player for Pakistan ahead of semi-final vs New Zealand

A&nbsp;Qatar&nbsp;World Cup ambassador has told German television broadcaster ZDF that homosexuality was "damage in the mind", as the Gulf state prepares to host the global tournament in less than two weeks. In an interview filmed in Doha and to be screened later on Tuesday, former&nbsp;Qatari international Khalid Salman addressed the issue of homosexuality, which is illegal in the conservative Muslim country.

Some soccer players have raised concerns over the rights of fans travelling to the event, especially LGBT+ individuals and women, whom rights groups say&nbsp;Qatari laws discriminate against. The country expects more than one million visitors for the World Cup. "They have to accept our rules here," Salman said, in an excerpt of the interview. "(Homosexuality) is haram. You know what haram (forbidden) means?," he said. When asked why it was haram, Salman said: "I am not a strict Muslim but why is it haram? Because it is damage in the mind."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-erling-haaland-to-luis-diaz-superstar-footballers-who-wont-be-seen-in-fifa-world-cup-in-qatar-529189">From Erling Haaland to Luis Diaz: Superstar footballers who won't be seen in FIFA World Cup in Qatar</a>

The interview was then immediately stopped by an accompanying official.&nbsp;Qatar's World Cup organisers, when contacted by Reuters, declined to comment. World soccer's ruling body FIFA did not immediately respond to a request for a comment. Organisers have repeatedly said everyone was welcome in&nbsp;Qatar&nbsp;during the World Cup.

Qatar&nbsp;is the first Middle Eastern country to host the World Cup but the small nation has come under intense pressure in recent years for its treatment of foreign workers and restrictive social laws. The country's human rights record has led to calls for teams and officials to boycott the Nov. 20-Dec. 18 tournament.

A Qatar World Cup ambassador has told German television broadcaster ZDF that homosexuality was "damage in the mind", as the Gulf state prepares to host the global tournament in less than two weeks.

A Qatar World Cup ambassador has told German television broadcaster ZDF that homosexuality was "damage in the mind", as the Gulf state prepares to host the global tournament in less than two weeks. In an interview filmed in Doha and to be screened later on Tuesday, former Qatari international Khalid Salman addressed the issue of homosexuality, which is illegal in the conservative Muslim country. Some soccer players have raised concerns over the rights of fans travelling to the event, especially LGBT+ individuals and women, whom rights groups say Qatari laws discriminate against. The country expects more than one million visitors for the World Cup. "They have to accept our rules here," Salman said, in an excerpt of the interview. "(Homosexuality) is haram. You know what haram (forbidden) means?," he said. When asked why it was haram, Salman said: "I am not a strict Muslim but why is it haram? Because it is damage in the mind." ALSO READ | From Erling Haaland to Luis Diaz: Superstar footballers who won't be seen in FIFA World Cup in Qatar The interview was then immediately stopped by an accompanying official. Qatar's World Cup organisers, when contacted by Reuters, declined to comment. World soccer's ruling body FIFA did not immediately respond to a request for a comment. Organisers have repeatedly said everyone was welcome in Qatar during the World Cup. Qatar is the first Middle Eastern country to host the World Cup but the small nation has come under intense pressure in recent years for its treatment of foreign workers and restrictive social laws. The country's human rights record has led to calls for teams and officials to boycott the Nov. 20-Dec. 18 tournament.

Qatar World Cup ambassador shares take on homosexuality, says it is 'damage in the mind'

Author

Zee News Rajasthan

Editor

Aditya Sahay

Home

Live Tv

Latest

World

India

Business

Entertainment

Sports

Opinions

Videos

Photos

Gravitas

Lifestyle

Science

Tech

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