Real Madrid pair Karim Benzema and Thibaut Courtois and Manchester City's&nbsp;Kevin&nbsp;De&nbsp;Bruyne&nbsp;were on Friday shortlisted for the UEFA Men's Player of the Year award.

The European body of European football said that a jury made up of journalists and representatives of clubs playing in European competitions voted for the trio from a list of 15. Polish striker Robert Lewandowski was fourth on the ballot and just missed out. The award will be presented on August 25 during the draw for the Champions League group stage.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/football/i-knew-i-could-do-more-karim-benzema-admits-cristiano-ronaldos-exit-boosted-his-ambition-505654">'I knew I could do more' - Karim Benzema admits Cristiano Ronaldo's exit boosted his ambition</a>

Real won the Spanish Liga and the Champions League. Benzema was named Champions League Player of the Season after scoring 15 goals in the competition, including three in Real's semi-final victory over Manchester City.

When he scored Real's second goal against Frankfurt on Wednesday in the European Supercup, Benzema became the club's second-highest scorer in history with 324 goals, behind Cristiano Ronaldo. Courtois was spectacular as Real edged Liverpool 1-0 in the final and was named player of the match.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/moved-away-from-the-racial-side-raheem-sterling-admits-racial-abuse-didnt-stop-him-from-joining-chelsea-506201" hreflang="en">‘Moved away from...’- Raheem Sterling reveals racial abuse didn’t stop him from joining Chelsea</a>

De&nbsp;Bruyne&nbsp;made the shortlist for the third straight year after inspiring City to the Premier League title. Jorginho won the title last year after winning the Champions League with&nbsp;Chelsea and the delayed Euro 2020 with Italy.

UEFA also announced the three nominees for coach of the year. They are Real Madrid's Carlo Ancelotti, Man City's Pep Guardiola and the man they had to beat to win their biggest titles last season,&nbsp;Liverpool's Jurgen Klopp.

Real Madrid pair Karim Benzema and Thibaut Courtois and Manchester City's Kevin De Bruyne were on Friday shortlisted for the UEFA Men's Player of the Year award.

Real Madrid pair Karim Benzema and Thibaut Courtois and Manchester City's Kevin De Bruyne were on Friday shortlisted for the UEFA Men's Player of the Year award. The European body of European football said that a jury made up of journalists and representatives of clubs playing in European competitions voted for the trio from a list of 15. Polish striker Robert Lewandowski was fourth on the ballot and just missed out. The award will be presented on August 25 during the draw for the Champions League group stage. ALSO READ: 'I knew I could do more' - Karim Benzema admits Cristiano Ronaldo's exit boosted his ambition Real won the Spanish Liga and the Champions League. Benzema was named Champions League Player of the Season after scoring 15 goals in the competition, including three in Real's semi-final victory over Manchester City. When he scored Real's second goal against Frankfurt on Wednesday in the European Supercup, Benzema became the club's second-highest scorer in history with 324 goals, behind Cristiano Ronaldo. Courtois was spectacular as Real edged Liverpool 1-0 in the final and was named player of the match. ALSO READ: ‘Moved away from...’- Raheem Sterling reveals racial abuse didn’t stop him from joining Chelsea De Bruyne made the shortlist for the third straight year after inspiring City to the Premier League title. Jorginho won the title last year after winning the Champions League with Chelsea and the delayed Euro 2020 with Italy. UEFA also announced the three nominees for coach of the year. They are Real Madrid's Carlo Ancelotti, Man City's Pep Guardiola and the man they had to beat to win their biggest titles last season, Liverpool's Jurgen Klopp.

Karim Benzema, Thibaut Courtois & De Bruyne feature on the shortlist for UEFA's men's POTY accolade

In an extremely wholesome turn of events, popular sports apparel brand PUMA vowed to support up-and-coming West Indian cricketers by providing equipment, including bats and pads,&nbsp;to them. This comes shortly after the&nbsp;national team's ex-pacer issued a call out to all former players, requesting them to help equip youngsters in the Caribbean.

Benjamin recorded an extremely fruitful stint while playing for&nbsp;the West Indies&nbsp;national team. He represented the country&nbsp;way back in the 80s and 90s, during which he scalped around 161 wickets. He featured in 85 ODIs and 21 test matches.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sourav-ganguly-spearheads-indias-charge-in-special-legends-league-of-cricket-match-506178" hreflang="en">Sourav Ganguly to lead India's charge vs World Giants in 75th year of Indian Independence special match</a>

In a recent interaction with reporter&nbsp;Vimal Kumar, Benjamin sent a moving message to Indian cricketing icon Sachin Tendulkar, asking for his support to equip aspiring cricketers in the Caribbean.

Whether&nbsp;Tendulkar&nbsp;responded to his request remains shrouded in mystery. He also thanked&nbsp;former Indian cricketer Mohammad Azharuddin for donating some equipment and helping his cause.

“Mr. Tendulkar if you are in a position, could you assist me? Hit me up,” he said as he shared his contact details.&nbsp;“I would like to thank my good friend Mohammad Azharuddin. He sent me some equipment over. Azhar, congratulations! And thank you so much for that assistance. Stay in touch. Anyone else who wants to contribute, feel free.”

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/show-some-courage-danish-kaneria-slams-pakistan-urges-them-to-take-a-leaf-from-india-506141" hreflang="en">'Show some courage' - Danish Kaneria slams Pakistan, urges them to take a leaf from India</a>

However, it seems like PUMA India noticed&nbsp;Benjamin's calls as they took to social media, declaring that his wishes had been heard and will soon be fulfilled. In a recent post on Twitter, PUMA expressed interest in 'padding the kids' up.

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We hear you, Winston. Let’s get these kids padded up 🤝<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WinstonBenjamin?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WinstonBenjamin</a> <a href="https://t.co/YxE13p5EyF">https://t.co/YxE13p5EyF</a>
— PUMA Cricket (@pumacricket) <a href="https://twitter.com/pumacricket/status/1557949991955546112?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 12, 2022</a></blockquote>
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This is not the first time the German outfit has displayed its philanthropic spirit as they previously came to the Zimbabwe national team's aid, offering them a sponsorship deal after batsmen Ryan Burl posted pictures on social media of how the team was often forced to glue the soles of their worn-out shoes together after every series.

In an extremely wholesome turn of events, popular sports apparel brand PUMA vowed to support up-and-coming West Indian cricketers by providing equipment, including bats and pads, to them.

In an extremely wholesome turn of events, popular sports apparel brand PUMA vowed to support up-and-coming West Indian cricketers by providing equipment, including bats and pads, to them. This comes shortly after the national team's ex-pacer issued a call out to all former players, requesting them to help equip youngsters in the Caribbean. Benjamin recorded an extremely fruitful stint while playing for the West Indies national team. He represented the country way back in the 80s and 90s, during which he scalped around 161 wickets. He featured in 85 ODIs and 21 test matches. ALSO READ: Sourav Ganguly to lead India's charge vs World Giants in 75th year of Indian Independence special match In a recent interaction with reporter Vimal Kumar, Benjamin sent a moving message to Indian cricketing icon Sachin Tendulkar, asking for his support to equip aspiring cricketers in the Caribbean. Whether Tendulkar responded to his request remains shrouded in mystery. He also thanked former Indian cricketer Mohammad Azharuddin for donating some equipment and helping his cause. “Mr. Tendulkar if you are in a position, could you assist me? Hit me up,” he said as he shared his contact details. “I would like to thank my good friend Mohammad Azharuddin. He sent me some equipment over. Azhar, congratulations! And thank you so much for that assistance. Stay in touch. Anyone else who wants to contribute, feel free.” ALSO READ: 'Show some courage' - Danish Kaneria slams Pakistan, urges them to take a leaf from India However, it seems like PUMA India noticed Benjamin's calls as they took to social media, declaring that his wishes had been heard and will soon be fulfilled. In a recent post on Twitter, PUMA expressed interest in 'padding the kids' up. We hear you, Winston. Let’s get these kids padded up 🤝#WinstonBenjamin https://t.co/YxE13p5EyF — PUMA Cricket (@pumacricket) August 12, 2022 × This is not the first time the German outfit has displayed its philanthropic spirit as they previously came to the Zimbabwe national team's aid, offering them a sponsorship deal after batsmen Ryan Burl posted pictures on social media of how the team was often forced to glue the soles of their worn-out shoes together after every series.

PUMA India heeds ex-West Indies pacer's call for support towards up-and-coming athletes

Abhinav Bindra created history when he became the first-ever Indian to win an individual gold medal at the Olympics in 2008. The then 25-year-old had scripted a unique feat by winning the country's first gold in an individual event when he returned with the yellow metal&nbsp;in the 10-m air rifle competition.&nbsp;

In addition, the legendary shooter Bindra had secured as many as four consecutive gold medals in the Commonwealth Games,&nbsp;from 2002 to 2014, and also ended as&nbsp;the top-prize winner at the&nbsp;World Championships held in 2006. While he was close to winning another Olympic medal in Rio 2016, he ended at the fourth spot. Nonetheless what followed was a surprising move from Bindra as he retired from the sport in the same year.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/two-pakistani-boxers-mysteriously-disappear-in-birmingham-in-the-aftermath-of-the-commonwealth-games-505946">Two Pakistani boxers mysteriously disappear in Birmingham after Commonwealth Games 2022</a>

Recently, a fan commented on a video of Bindra's memorable Olympic gold medal triumph on August 11, 2008, shared by The Bridge's account. A Twitter user wrote,&nbsp;"Why he retired too early is something he will answer someday to his fans.." To this, the 39-year-old Bindra broke his silence and also replied to the user.

He wrote, "1.) Recognised my fading skills 2). Failed in two successive Games 3). Was the appropriate time to give my spot to a younger athlete and talent ! (did not just want to hold on to it)"

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1.) Recognised my fading skills 2). Failed in two successive Games 3). Was the appropriate time to give my spot to a younger athlete and talent ! ( did not just want to hold on to it )
— Abhinav A. Bindra OLY (@Abhinav_Bindra) <a href="https://twitter.com/Abhinav_Bindra/status/1557623597971415040?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 11, 2022</a></blockquote>
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For the unversed, Abhinav wasn't India's first-ever Olympic medallist among shooters.&nbsp;Colonel Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore had secured&nbsp;silver in the 2004 Athens Olympics, however, Bindra moved past him and ensured a top-spot finish&nbsp;in the 2008 edition.&nbsp;After Bindra, Gagan Narang claimed&nbsp;bronze&nbsp;in the same 10m Air Rifle category in the 2012 London Olympics whereas Vijay Kumar matched Rathore's feat and won&nbsp;silver in the 25 m rapid fire pistol competition. These four&nbsp;are the only elite members from the shooting fraternity to have&nbsp;won Olympic medals&nbsp;for the country.

Abhinav Bindra created history when he became the first-ever Indian to win an individual gold medal at the Olympics in 2008. The then 25-year-old had scripted a unique feat by winning the country's first gold in an individual event when he returned with the yellow metal in the 10-m air rifle competition.

Abhinav Bindra created history when he became the first-ever Indian to win an individual gold medal at the Olympics in 2008. The then 25-year-old had scripted a unique feat by winning the country's first gold in an individual event when he returned with the yellow metal in the 10-m air rifle competition. In addition, the legendary shooter Bindra had secured as many as four consecutive gold medals in the Commonwealth Games, from 2002 to 2014, and also ended as the top-prize winner at the World Championships held in 2006. While he was close to winning another Olympic medal in Rio 2016, he ended at the fourth spot. Nonetheless what followed was a surprising move from Bindra as he retired from the sport in the same year. ALSO READ | Two Pakistani boxers mysteriously disappear in Birmingham after Commonwealth Games 2022 Recently, a fan commented on a video of Bindra's memorable Olympic gold medal triumph on August 11, 2008, shared by The Bridge's account. A Twitter user wrote, "Why he retired too early is something he will answer someday to his fans.." To this, the 39-year-old Bindra broke his silence and also replied to the user. He wrote, "1.) Recognised my fading skills 2). Failed in two successive Games 3). Was the appropriate time to give my spot to a younger athlete and talent ! (did not just want to hold on to it)" 1.) Recognised my fading skills 2). Failed in two successive Games 3). Was the appropriate time to give my spot to a younger athlete and talent ! ( did not just want to hold on to it ) — Abhinav A. Bindra OLY (@Abhinav_Bindra) August 11, 2022 × For the unversed, Abhinav wasn't India's first-ever Olympic medallist among shooters. Colonel Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore had secured silver in the 2004 Athens Olympics, however, Bindra moved past him and ensured a top-spot finish in the 2008 edition. After Bindra, Gagan Narang claimed bronze in the same 10m Air Rifle category in the 2012 London Olympics whereas Vijay Kumar matched Rathore's feat and won silver in the 25 m rapid fire pistol competition. These four are the only elite members from the shooting fraternity to have won Olympic medals for the country.

Why did shooter Abhinav Bindra retire in 2016? Olympic gold medallist responds to a fan's query

Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has set aside a window in March 2023 for the first-ever edition of women's Indian Premier League (IPL) and the process to get the show on the road is underway, as per board president Sourav Ganguly. As per ESPNCricinfo, the board has made changes to its women's domestic cricket calendar to make way for women's IPL.

The women's season that generally goes on from November to April has been advanced by a month, with the season set to begin on October 11 with T20 competition and end in February 2023 with an inter-zonal ODI competition.

Since 2018, BCCI has been organising the Women's T20 Challenge. What started as a one-off exhibition match between two teams in the first season is now a three-team competition. Many players from outside India have also joined the competition. But despite this, the clamour to have a much bigger competition just like men's IPL is growing among players and fans for a while.

Earlier in February this year, Ganguly had stated that the women's IPL would be held next year. "We are at the level of formulation to have a full-fledged WIPL. It is certainly going to happen. I strongly believe that next year i.e. 2023 will be a very good time to start a full-fledged women's IPL which will be as big and grand a success as men's IPL. 
 
Owners of IPL franchise Rajasthan Royals and Barbados Royals, The Knight Riders Group have expressed their interest in getting involved in the tournament and owning a women's IPL team.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cwg-2022-final-harmanpreet-smriti-co-in-splits-as-yastika-bhatia-slips-while-coming-out-to-bat-watch-504805">CWG 2022 final: Harmanpreet, Smriti &amp; Co. in splits as Yastika Bhatia slips while coming out to bat - WATCH</a>

The inaugural edition of the women's Caribbean Premier League (CPL), which is scheduled to happen alongside the men's tournament later this year will feature three teams, including Trinbago Knight Riders owned by Knight Riders Group. BCCI is expected to hold a discussion on matters related to women's IPL at its annual general meeting in September this year. Much of the planning around the tournament will be around sale of its media rights.

Due to India's improving and great performances at major ICC events over the recent years, the enthusiasm for women's cricket in India is at a never-seen-before high. The latest of these performances was the Women in Blue clinching a silver medal in the recently-concluded Commonwealth Games 2022 in Birmingham. Moreover, senior Indian players like Smriti Mandhana, Harmanpreet Kaur and former Indian skipper Mithali Raj have been supportive of the idea of women's IPL.

Raj in fact expressed a desire to come out of retirement to participate in the tournament. "I am keeping that option open. I have not yet decided. There are a few more months to go before the Women's IPL happens. It would be lovely to be part of the first edition of the Women's IPL," she had said while speaking on ICC's 100% Cricket podcast earlier in July.

Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has set aside a window in March 2023 for the first-ever edition of women's Indian Premier League (IPL) and the process to get the show on the road is underway, as per board president Sourav Ganguly.

Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has set aside a window in March 2023 for the first-ever edition of women's Indian Premier League (IPL) and the process to get the show on the road is underway, as per board president Sourav Ganguly. As per ESPNCricinfo, the board has made changes to its women's domestic cricket calendar to make way for women's IPL. The women's season that generally goes on from November to April has been advanced by a month, with the season set to begin on October 11 with T20 competition and end in February 2023 with an inter-zonal ODI competition. Since 2018, BCCI has been organising the Women's T20 Challenge. What started as a one-off exhibition match between two teams in the first season is now a three-team competition. Many players from outside India have also joined the competition. But despite this, the clamour to have a much bigger competition just like men's IPL is growing among players and fans for a while. Earlier in February this year, Ganguly had stated that the women's IPL would be held next year. "We are at the level of formulation to have a full-fledged WIPL. It is certainly going to happen. I strongly believe that next year i.e. 2023 will be a very good time to start a full-fledged women's IPL which will be as big and grand a success as men's IPL. Owners of IPL franchise Rajasthan Royals and Barbados Royals, The Knight Riders Group have expressed their interest in getting involved in the tournament and owning a women's IPL team. ALSO READ | CWG 2022 final: Harmanpreet, Smriti & Co. in splits as Yastika Bhatia slips while coming out to bat - WATCH The inaugural edition of the women's Caribbean Premier League (CPL), which is scheduled to happen alongside the men's tournament later this year will feature three teams, including Trinbago Knight Riders owned by Knight Riders Group. BCCI is expected to hold a discussion on matters related to women's IPL at its annual general meeting in September this year. Much of the planning around the tournament will be around sale of its media rights. Due to India's improving and great performances at major ICC events over the recent years, the enthusiasm for women's cricket in India is at a never-seen-before high. The latest of these performances was the Women in Blue clinching a silver medal in the recently-concluded Commonwealth Games 2022 in Birmingham. Moreover, senior Indian players like Smriti Mandhana, Harmanpreet Kaur and former Indian skipper Mithali Raj have been supportive of the idea of women's IPL. Raj in fact expressed a desire to come out of retirement to participate in the tournament. "I am keeping that option open. I have not yet decided. There are a few more months to go before the Women's IPL happens. It would be lovely to be part of the first edition of the Women's IPL," she had said while speaking on ICC's 100% Cricket podcast earlier in July.

BCCI keeps window in March 2023 for first-ever Women's IPL

India and Pakistan are gearing up to resume their&nbsp;rivalry on the 22-yard cricket strip as both sides will meet each other in the upcoming Asia Cup 2022 edition. The forthcoming edition will be held in the UAE in the shortest format (for the second time in the tournament history) as India and Pakistan will play their respective opening game versus each other, in Dubai, on August 28.

There's a lot of hype regarding the upcoming India-Pakistan clash. Moreover, the upcoming Asia Cup season can see the two Asian giants clash with each other on as many as three occasions. India and Pakistan are very likely to meet in the Super Four round and can also end up locking horns in the summit clash, which will be the first-ever finale featuring both teams in the tournament history.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/asia-cup-will-pakistan-make-it-3-0-vs-india-on-facing-them-thrice-babar-azam-answers-journalists-query-506167">Asia Cup: Will Pakistan make it 3-0 vs India on facing them thrice? Babar Azam answers journalist's query</a>

Ahead of the 2022 Asian championship, let us recall former Indian opener Gautam Gambhir and veteran Pakistan keeper-batter Kamran Akmal's ugly spat during the 2010 Asia Cup in Sri Lanka. In a tight contest, in Dambulla, Shahid Afridi-led Men in Green rode on Salman Butt's 74 and Kamran's 51&nbsp;to post&nbsp;267&nbsp;all-out in 49.3 overs.&nbsp;

In reply, Gambhir's 83, then Indian skipper MS Dhoni's 56, Suresh Raina's 27-ball 34 and Harbhajan Singh's 11-ball 15 not out propelled India to a stunning three-wicket win. However, there was a lot of action and drama during India's tense run-chase. At the time of Dhoni-Gambhir's 98-run third-wicket stand, the latter and Kamran got involved in a heated exchange following a caught-behind appeal from the Pakistani stumper. Here's the video:

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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/after-missing-out-on-asia-cup-jasprit-bumrah-could-also-be-ruled-out-of-t20-world-cup-report-506108">After missing out on Asia Cup, Jasprit Bumrah could also be ruled out of T20 World Cup: Report</a>

In an interview with Vikram Sathaye, Gambhir had spilled the beans on the incident and told, "It happened in the heat of the moment. When India and Pakistan play each other then obviously it is a tense game."

“Good or a bad thing you can say but whatever arguments happened between us was during the drinks break. Instead of showing advertisements during the break Neo channel opted to show our heated arguments," the former southpaw revealed.

On being asked the main reason behind the heated exchange,&nbsp;Gambhir&nbsp;replied, "I had tried to play and missed it fully. He appealed in such a way that he thought that the ball hit the bat. Then I told him that there is no point in appealing because nothing like that happened, we just got into a heated argument and then it just got from bad to worse."

During the epic face-off between the two players,&nbsp;few more Pakistani players had jumped in before the umpires and Dhoni separated Kamran and Gambhir, respectively. In the end overs, Harbhajan-Shoaib Akhtar also had a war of words.

Dhoni-led India won the Asia Cup in 2010, beating hosts Sri Lanka by 81 runs in the final.

India and Pakistan are gearing up to resume their rivalry on the 22-yard cricket strip as both sides will meet each other in the upcoming Asia Cup 2022 edition. The forthcoming edition will be held in the UAE in the shortest format (for the second time in the tournament history) as India and Pakistan will play their respective opening game versus each other, in Dubai, on August 28.

India and Pakistan are gearing up to resume their rivalry on the 22-yard cricket strip as both sides will meet each other in the upcoming Asia Cup 2022 edition. The forthcoming edition will be held in the UAE in the shortest format (for the second time in the tournament history) as India and Pakistan will play their respective opening game versus each other, in Dubai, on August 28. There's a lot of hype regarding the upcoming India-Pakistan clash. Moreover, the upcoming Asia Cup season can see the two Asian giants clash with each other on as many as three occasions. India and Pakistan are very likely to meet in the Super Four round and can also end up locking horns in the summit clash, which will be the first-ever finale featuring both teams in the tournament history. ALSO READ | Asia Cup: Will Pakistan make it 3-0 vs India on facing them thrice? Babar Azam answers journalist's query Ahead of the 2022 Asian championship, let us recall former Indian opener Gautam Gambhir and veteran Pakistan keeper-batter Kamran Akmal's ugly spat during the 2010 Asia Cup in Sri Lanka. In a tight contest, in Dambulla, Shahid Afridi-led Men in Green rode on Salman Butt's 74 and Kamran's 51 to post 267 all-out in 49.3 overs. In reply, Gambhir's 83, then Indian skipper MS Dhoni's 56, Suresh Raina's 27-ball 34 and Harbhajan Singh's 11-ball 15 not out propelled India to a stunning three-wicket win. However, there was a lot of action and drama during India's tense run-chase. At the time of Dhoni-Gambhir's 98-run third-wicket stand, the latter and Kamran got involved in a heated exchange following a caught-behind appeal from the Pakistani stumper. Here's the video: × ALSO READ | After missing out on Asia Cup, Jasprit Bumrah could also be ruled out of T20 World Cup: Report In an interview with Vikram Sathaye, Gambhir had spilled the beans on the incident and told, "It happened in the heat of the moment. When India and Pakistan play each other then obviously it is a tense game." “Good or a bad thing you can say but whatever arguments happened between us was during the drinks break. Instead of showing advertisements during the break Neo channel opted to show our heated arguments," the former southpaw revealed. On being asked the main reason behind the heated exchange, Gambhir replied, "I had tried to play and missed it fully. He appealed in such a way that he thought that the ball hit the bat. Then I told him that there is no point in appealing because nothing like that happened, we just got into a heated argument and then it just got from bad to worse." During the epic face-off between the two players, few more Pakistani players had jumped in before the umpires and Dhoni separated Kamran and Gambhir, respectively. In the end overs, Harbhajan-Shoaib Akhtar also had a war of words. Dhoni-led India won the Asia Cup in 2010, beating hosts Sri Lanka by 81 runs in the final.

When Gambhir, Kamran got involved in an ugly spat during 2010 India-Pakistan Asia Cup clash

Chelsea F.C.'s freshest signing Raheem Sterling recently looked back at the time he faced racial abuse from a fan at Stamford Bridge. He admitted that facing this abuse did not make him reconsider his move to Chelsea as the club shelled out a whopping&nbsp;£47.5 million to facilitate his move out of Manchester City this summer.

The English forward found himself at the receiving end of racially charged abuse from a fan during a game between Manchester City and Chelsea way back in December 2018.&nbsp;This prompted a serious investigation led by law enforcement and the club itself. Although the&nbsp;Crown Prosecution Service moved to dismiss criminal charges, the club levelled a lifetime ban on the accused.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fifa-moves-qatar-world-cup-start-forward-by-a-day-to-kick-off-on-november-20-506182" hreflang="en">FIFA moves Qatar World Cup start forward by a day, to kick off on November 20</a>

During a media interaction ahead of Chelsea's recent clash against Tottenham Hotspur, Sterling admitted that the incident did not play on his mind at all while he was considering a move to the club. He admitted that the main reason that prompted the search for greener pastures was his refusal to accept a reduced game time at the Mancunian club.

"It wasn't something that played on my mind at all.&nbsp;I can't let an incident from individuals change my perception of the club. I have no hatred or malice towards the individual."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/will-real-madrid-sign-cristiano-ronaldo-once-again-club-president-answers-the-big-question-506133" hreflang="en">Will Real Madrid sign Cristiano Ronaldo once again? Club president answers the big question</a>

Sterling further asserted that he was determined to help younger talent grow and flourish in the sport. He offered fans some insight into his decision to create a safe space for up-and-coming athletes to hone their craft without the threat of racial abuse hanging over their shoulders.

"Of course, football is my main goal and my main talent, but it's the other thing that gives me the most joy. That's helping people ... I've moved away from the racial side of it and am focused more on helping and nurturing young Black people."

Sterling admitted that he wanted to follow in the footsteps of his idol, Steven Gerrard, who inspired him to achieve greatness. He also declared that he&nbsp;was determined to create a light and joyful environment, which would eventually help youngsters feel comfortable.

Chelsea F.C.'s freshest signing Raheem Sterling recently looked back at the time he faced racial abuse from a fan at Stamford Bridge. He admitted that facing this abuse did not make him reconsider his move to Chelsea as the club shelled out a whopping £47.

Chelsea F.C.'s freshest signing Raheem Sterling recently looked back at the time he faced racial abuse from a fan at Stamford Bridge. He admitted that facing this abuse did not make him reconsider his move to Chelsea as the club shelled out a whopping £47.5 million to facilitate his move out of Manchester City this summer. The English forward found himself at the receiving end of racially charged abuse from a fan during a game between Manchester City and Chelsea way back in December 2018. This prompted a serious investigation led by law enforcement and the club itself. Although the Crown Prosecution Service moved to dismiss criminal charges, the club levelled a lifetime ban on the accused. ALSO READ: FIFA moves Qatar World Cup start forward by a day, to kick off on November 20 During a media interaction ahead of Chelsea's recent clash against Tottenham Hotspur, Sterling admitted that the incident did not play on his mind at all while he was considering a move to the club. He admitted that the main reason that prompted the search for greener pastures was his refusal to accept a reduced game time at the Mancunian club. "It wasn't something that played on my mind at all. I can't let an incident from individuals change my perception of the club. I have no hatred or malice towards the individual." ALSO READ: Will Real Madrid sign Cristiano Ronaldo once again? Club president answers the big question Sterling further asserted that he was determined to help younger talent grow and flourish in the sport. He offered fans some insight into his decision to create a safe space for up-and-coming athletes to hone their craft without the threat of racial abuse hanging over their shoulders. "Of course, football is my main goal and my main talent, but it's the other thing that gives me the most joy. That's helping people ... I've moved away from the racial side of it and am focused more on helping and nurturing young Black people." Sterling admitted that he wanted to follow in the footsteps of his idol, Steven Gerrard, who inspired him to achieve greatness. He also declared that he was determined to create a light and joyful environment, which would eventually help youngsters feel comfortable.

‘Moved away from...’- Raheem Sterling reveals racial abuse didn’t stop him from joining Chelsea

After being thrashed by India, Nicholas Pooran-led West Indies are now hosting Kane Williamson's New Zealand. Pooran &amp; Co. have their back against the wall following a disastrous performance versus Team India at home.&nbsp;

With time running against them ahead of the 2022 T20 World Cup, the two-time winners West Indies have to regroup and start winning games at the earliest. The Windies lost the three-match T20I series opener, in Jamaica, versus the Kiwis and, thus, have to bounce back to not concede the series.

In the tour opener, New Zealand rode on quickfire knocks from Devon Conway, Williamson and Jimmy Neesham&nbsp;as the visitors posted 185-5. In reply, despite Shamarh Brooks' 43-ball 42 and cameos from Jason Holder, Rovman Powell, Romario Shepherd and Odean Smith, WI only managed 172/7.

Here is everything you need to know about the match - date, IST, streaming details, etc.&nbsp;

When will the West Indies&nbsp;vs New Zealand 2nd T20I take place?

West Indies&nbsp;vs New Zealand&nbsp;2nd T20I&nbsp;will be played&nbsp;on August 12, 2022 (Friday).&nbsp;

Where will the West Indies&nbsp;vs New Zealand 2nd T20I be held?

West Indies&nbsp;vs New Zealand&nbsp;2nd T20I&nbsp;will be held at the Sabina Park, Kingston, Jamaica.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/after-missing-out-on-asia-cup-jasprit-bumrah-could-also-be-ruled-out-of-t20-world-cup-report-506108">After missing out on Asia Cup, Jasprit Bumrah could also be ruled out of T20 World Cup: Report</a>

At what time is the West Indies&nbsp;vs New Zealand 2nd T20I taking place?

West Indies&nbsp;vs New Zealand&nbsp;2nd T20I&nbsp;will commence at 6:30&nbsp;PM&nbsp;GMT (1:30 PM&nbsp;local time). The IST time is 12:00 am.

How to watch West Indies&nbsp;vs New Zealand 2nd T20I live on TV?

West Indies&nbsp;vs New Zealand&nbsp;2nd T20I's broadcast will not be available in India.

How to watch West Indies&nbsp;vs New Zealand 2nd T20I&nbsp;live streaming?

West Indies&nbsp;vs New Zealand&nbsp;2nd T20I's live streaming will be on&nbsp;FanCode.

After being thrashed by India, Nicholas Pooran-led West Indies are now hosting Kane Williamson's New Zealand. Pooran & Co. have their back against the wall following a disastrous performance versus Team India at home.

After being thrashed by India, Nicholas Pooran-led West Indies are now hosting Kane Williamson's New Zealand. Pooran & Co. have their back against the wall following a disastrous performance versus Team India at home. With time running against them ahead of the 2022 T20 World Cup, the two-time winners West Indies have to regroup and start winning games at the earliest. The Windies lost the three-match T20I series opener, in Jamaica, versus the Kiwis and, thus, have to bounce back to not concede the series. In the tour opener, New Zealand rode on quickfire knocks from Devon Conway, Williamson and Jimmy Neesham as the visitors posted 185-5. In reply, despite Shamarh Brooks' 43-ball 42 and cameos from Jason Holder, Rovman Powell, Romario Shepherd and Odean Smith, WI only managed 172/7. Here is everything you need to know about the match - date, IST, streaming details, etc. When will the West Indies vs New Zealand 2nd T20I take place? West Indies vs New Zealand 2nd T20I will be played on August 12, 2022 (Friday). Where will the West Indies vs New Zealand 2nd T20I be held? West Indies vs New Zealand 2nd T20I will be held at the Sabina Park, Kingston, Jamaica. ALSO READ | After missing out on Asia Cup, Jasprit Bumrah could also be ruled out of T20 World Cup: Report At what time is the West Indies vs New Zealand 2nd T20I taking place? West Indies vs New Zealand 2nd T20I will commence at 6:30 PM GMT (1:30 PM local time). The IST time is 12:00 am. How to watch West Indies vs New Zealand 2nd T20I live on TV? West Indies vs New Zealand 2nd T20I's broadcast will not be available in India. How to watch West Indies vs New Zealand 2nd T20I live streaming? West Indies vs New Zealand 2nd T20I's live streaming will be on FanCode.

WI vs NZ: When and where to watch West Indies vs New Zealand 2nd T20I - IST time & streaming details

From inaugural champions to woeful performers in 2021: Team India at T20 World Cup over the years

The Legends League Cricket season two is to be dedicated to the 75th year celebration of Indian Independence and the first match to be played on September 16 at Eden Garden, Kolkata, will be a special one. It will be played between India vs World as India Maharajas vs World Giants. Players from across 10 foreign countries will be participating in the match.

The league will commence on September 17, 2022, wherein 4 teams in franchise format will be competing in the Legends League Cricket Franchise format. Overall, 15 matches will be played this season.

Ravi Shastri, Commissioner, Legends League Cricket, said, "This is a proud moment for us that we are celebrating the 75th year of our Independence. As a proud Indian, it gives me immense satisfaction to share that we have decided to dedicate this year league to the 75th year of Independence celebration."

Raman Raheja, Co-Founder &amp; CEO&nbsp;of Legends League Cricket, said, "We took this decision to be part of this year's Independence celebrations, considering that it's a moment of pride for every Indian. Further, India Maharajas will be led by Sourav Ganguly and World Giants will be led by Eoin Morgan for the social cause match on September 16. Thereafter the 4 Franchise owned teams would be competing in the league over 22 days. We will soon be announcing the complete list of players in the overall pool of 100+ players available for pick up by the team franchises."

He added, "Eden Garden has a long-standing legacy, and the stadium is a legend in itself. We are working on the finer details for the match at Kolkata with the CAB authorities for the necessary approvals and shall go ahead as advised by them."

The team for the special match to be played on September 16 at Eden Garden: India Maharajas: Sourav Ganguly (C), Virender Sehwag, Mohammed Kaif, Yusuf Pathan, Subramaniam Badrinath, Irfan Pathan, Parthiv Patel (wk), Stuart Binny, S Sreesanth, Harbhajan Singh, Naman Ojha (wk), Ashoke Dinda, Pragyan Ojha, Ajay Jadeja, RP Singh, Joginder Sharma and Reetinder Singh Sodhi.

World Giants: Eoin Morgan (c), Lendl Simmons, Herschelle Gibbs, Jacques Kallis, Sanath Jayasuriya, Matt Prior (wk), Nathan McCullum, Jonty Rhodes, Muttiah Muralitharan, Dale Steyn, Hamilton Masakadza, Mashrafe Mortaza, Asghar Afghan, Mitchell Johnson, Brett Lee, Kevin O Brien and Denesh Ramdin (wk).

Thereafter, the League would start from September 17 and go on till October 8, 2022, playing 15 matches over 22 days in 6 cities.

The Legends League Cricket season two is to be dedicated to the 75th year celebration of Indian Independence and the first match to be played on September 16 at Eden Garden, Kolkata, will be a special one.

The Legends League Cricket season two is to be dedicated to the 75th year celebration of Indian Independence and the first match to be played on September 16 at Eden Garden, Kolkata, will be a special one. It will be played between India vs World as India Maharajas vs World Giants. Players from across 10 foreign countries will be participating in the match. The league will commence on September 17, 2022, wherein 4 teams in franchise format will be competing in the Legends League Cricket Franchise format. Overall, 15 matches will be played this season. Ravi Shastri, Commissioner, Legends League Cricket, said, "This is a proud moment for us that we are celebrating the 75th year of our Independence. As a proud Indian, it gives me immense satisfaction to share that we have decided to dedicate this year league to the 75th year of Independence celebration." Raman Raheja, Co-Founder & CEO of Legends League Cricket, said, "We took this decision to be part of this year's Independence celebrations, considering that it's a moment of pride for every Indian. Further, India Maharajas will be led by Sourav Ganguly and World Giants will be led by Eoin Morgan for the social cause match on September 16. Thereafter the 4 Franchise owned teams would be competing in the league over 22 days. We will soon be announcing the complete list of players in the overall pool of 100+ players available for pick up by the team franchises." He added, "Eden Garden has a long-standing legacy, and the stadium is a legend in itself. We are working on the finer details for the match at Kolkata with the CAB authorities for the necessary approvals and shall go ahead as advised by them." The team for the special match to be played on September 16 at Eden Garden: India Maharajas: Sourav Ganguly (C), Virender Sehwag, Mohammed Kaif, Yusuf Pathan, Subramaniam Badrinath, Irfan Pathan, Parthiv Patel (wk), Stuart Binny, S Sreesanth, Harbhajan Singh, Naman Ojha (wk), Ashoke Dinda, Pragyan Ojha, Ajay Jadeja, RP Singh, Joginder Sharma and Reetinder Singh Sodhi. World Giants: Eoin Morgan (c), Lendl Simmons, Herschelle Gibbs, Jacques Kallis, Sanath Jayasuriya, Matt Prior (wk), Nathan McCullum, Jonty Rhodes, Muttiah Muralitharan, Dale Steyn, Hamilton Masakadza, Mashrafe Mortaza, Asghar Afghan, Mitchell Johnson, Brett Lee, Kevin O Brien and Denesh Ramdin (wk). Thereafter, the League would start from September 17 and go on till October 8, 2022, playing 15 matches over 22 days in 6 cities.

Sourav Ganguly to lead India vs World Giants in 75th year of Indian Independence special match

Australian Nick Kyrgios produced another extraordinary performance to demolish compatriot Alex de Minaur 6-2 6-3 at the Canadian Masters on Thursday, a day after stunning world number one Daniil Medvedev. 
 
The fiery Wimbledon finalist has been playing the best tennis of his career and is showing no signs of slowing down in Montreal, where he won the first four games of the opening set in which de Minaur won scarcely more than half of his first-serve points.

The pair traded breaks to open the second set but 27-year-old Kyrgios would not be denied, breaking de Minaur on the third try in the third game and again in the seventh. Kyrgios briefly appeared agitated when he gave up a break in the penultimate game but found his composure to get the job done in a little over an hour, breaking back to love in the final game.

The win will move Kyrgios high enough in the rankings to be seeded at the U.S. Open later this month. "I did what had to be done. He's a hell of a player if you play to his strengths, he's one of the best players from the back in the game, he's just so fast," Kyrgios said of de Minaur in on-court remarks after the match. 
 
Kyrgios has won 15 of his last 16 matches and a day earlier produced a serve-and-volley masterclass to stun Medvedev 6-7(2) 6-4 6-2. He said the effort had certainly taken a toll.

"Incredibly tough, after yesterday's big high-playing Daniil. The crowd was amazing, it's a day I'll probably never ever forget," he said. "Today was really hard for me mentally to play Alex, we're such good friends and he's been having such a good career so far carrying the Australian flag. It's just tough mentally, it's never easy to play a friend like that, especially if they're an Australian." Kyrgios next faces Poland's Hubert Hurkacz in the quarter-final round.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/im-going-to-try-alexander-zverev-hopes-to-recover-in-time-to-compete-at-the-us-open-505961">‘I’m going to try’- Alexander Zverev hopes to recover in time to compete at US Open 2022</a>

SUPERB AUGER-ALIASSIME 
 
In other matches, Felix Auger-Aliassime harnessed his mighty serve to down Briton Cameron Norrie 6-3 6-4 to delight his home crowd, while Norwegian Casper Ruud outlasted Roberto Bautista Agut in a closely-fought three sets.

Competing in his local town of Montreal, the 22-year-old Auger-Aliassime sent over 15 aces and won all but three of his first-serve points, breaking in the penultimate game of both sets on Centre Court. British number one Norrie made five double faults and never had the momentum against a clinical Auger-Aliassime, who collected his first ATP title in Rotterdam this year and wrapped up Thursday's affair in a tidy 72 minutes. 
 
"Montreal people are really proud people," Auger-Aliassime was quoted as saying by the ATP, crediting the crowd with helping his performance.

"We are a small community in the world. We support each other in what we do, especially in professional sport." The U.S. Open semi-finalist will next face Ruud in the quarter-finals after the world number seven saw off Bautista Agut 6-7(4) 7-6(4) 6-4.

Briton Daniel Evans fought back after a disastrous second set to overcome American Taylor Fritz 7-6(5) 1-6 7-5, producing a remarkable defence as he fended off a dozen break points. Britain`s Jack Draper advanced after France's Gael Monfils retired in the second set with what appeared to be an injury to his right ankle.

Australian Nick Kyrgios produced another extraordinary performance to demolish compatriot Alex de Minaur 6-2 6-3 at the Canadian Masters on Thursday, a day after stunning world number one Daniil Medvedev.

Australian Nick Kyrgios produced another extraordinary performance to demolish compatriot Alex de Minaur 6-2 6-3 at the Canadian Masters on Thursday, a day after stunning world number one Daniil Medvedev. The fiery Wimbledon finalist has been playing the best tennis of his career and is showing no signs of slowing down in Montreal, where he won the first four games of the opening set in which de Minaur won scarcely more than half of his first-serve points. The pair traded breaks to open the second set but 27-year-old Kyrgios would not be denied, breaking de Minaur on the third try in the third game and again in the seventh. Kyrgios briefly appeared agitated when he gave up a break in the penultimate game but found his composure to get the job done in a little over an hour, breaking back to love in the final game. The win will move Kyrgios high enough in the rankings to be seeded at the U.S. Open later this month. "I did what had to be done. He's a hell of a player if you play to his strengths, he's one of the best players from the back in the game, he's just so fast," Kyrgios said of de Minaur in on-court remarks after the match. Kyrgios has won 15 of his last 16 matches and a day earlier produced a serve-and-volley masterclass to stun Medvedev 6-7(2) 6-4 6-2. He said the effort had certainly taken a toll. "Incredibly tough, after yesterday's big high-playing Daniil. The crowd was amazing, it's a day I'll probably never ever forget," he said. "Today was really hard for me mentally to play Alex, we're such good friends and he's been having such a good career so far carrying the Australian flag. It's just tough mentally, it's never easy to play a friend like that, especially if they're an Australian." Kyrgios next faces Poland's Hubert Hurkacz in the quarter-final round. ALSO READ | ‘I’m going to try’- Alexander Zverev hopes to recover in time to compete at US Open 2022 SUPERB AUGER-ALIASSIME In other matches, Felix Auger-Aliassime harnessed his mighty serve to down Briton Cameron Norrie 6-3 6-4 to delight his home crowd, while Norwegian Casper Ruud outlasted Roberto Bautista Agut in a closely-fought three sets. Competing in his local town of Montreal, the 22-year-old Auger-Aliassime sent over 15 aces and won all but three of his first-serve points, breaking in the penultimate game of both sets on Centre Court. British number one Norrie made five double faults and never had the momentum against a clinical Auger-Aliassime, who collected his first ATP title in Rotterdam this year and wrapped up Thursday's affair in a tidy 72 minutes. "Montreal people are really proud people," Auger-Aliassime was quoted as saying by the ATP, crediting the crowd with helping his performance. "We are a small community in the world. We support each other in what we do, especially in professional sport." The U.S. Open semi-finalist will next face Ruud in the quarter-finals after the world number seven saw off Bautista Agut 6-7(4) 7-6(4) 6-4. Briton Daniel Evans fought back after a disastrous second set to overcome American Taylor Fritz 7-6(5) 1-6 7-5, producing a remarkable defence as he fended off a dozen break points. Britain`s Jack Draper advanced after France's Gael Monfils retired in the second set with what appeared to be an injury to his right ankle.

Canadian Masters: Nick Kyrgios produces another showstopper to demolish compatriot Alex de Minaur

As Ukraine battles Russia's invasion of their country, their national team's star&nbsp;Andriy Shevchenko recently urged countries not to forget about their predicament.

Shevchenko, who has featured in the lineups of some of the most dominant European teams like AC Milan and Chelsea, revealed that he had been entrusted with the responsibility to spread awareness about their situation and attract financial support from the international community for medical and humanitarian aid.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/moved-away-from-the-racial-side-raheem-sterling-admits-racial-abuse-didnt-stop-him-from-joining-chelsea-506201">‘Moved away from...’- Raheem Sterling reveals racial abuse didn’t stop him from joining Chelsea</a>

"The message is very clear. Since the war started, Ukraine needs a lot of help.&nbsp;I'm here, as part of the UNITED24 platform, to bring awareness and talk about the war to try to find the funds for humanitarian and medical aid, because this is what, at this moment, Ukraine needs. We need some support...&nbsp;to keep going for our future, our independence, and our democratic way."

The 2004 Ballon d'Or winner recently visited Poland for a meet-and-greet with children&nbsp;who had fled the country, evading war and are currently facing an uncertain future as refugees.

During his tour of the country, he waxed lyrical about the philanthropic efforts of fellow athletes, Iga Swiatek and Robert Lewandowski. The former recently organized and starred in a charity match to raise funds for Ukrainians in need of financial support.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cristiano-ronaldo-beats-teammates-in-a-sprint-after-being-benched-due-to-fitness-issues-505872" hreflang="en">Cristiano Ronaldo beats Manchester United teammates in a sprint after being benched due to fitness issues</a>

"This is very important because, at the moment, athletes are icons for the younger generation.&nbsp;For people to take a position against the war is very important, to send the message across the world to be against the war and to support peace in Ukraine."

Although Russia's invasion of Ukraine has been covered extensively by the international media, Shevchenko urged countries not to forget about them as the news cycle tends to move on. He offered fans insight into their situation, claiming that the country and its citizens repeatedly found themselves at the receiving end of bombs.

As Ukraine battles Russia's invasion of their country, their national team's star Andriy Shevchenko recently urged countries not to forget about their predicament.

As Ukraine battles Russia's invasion of their country, their national team's star Andriy Shevchenko recently urged countries not to forget about their predicament. Shevchenko, who has featured in the lineups of some of the most dominant European teams like AC Milan and Chelsea, revealed that he had been entrusted with the responsibility to spread awareness about their situation and attract financial support from the international community for medical and humanitarian aid. ALSO READ: ‘Moved away from...’- Raheem Sterling reveals racial abuse didn’t stop him from joining Chelsea "The message is very clear. Since the war started, Ukraine needs a lot of help. I'm here, as part of the UNITED24 platform, to bring awareness and talk about the war to try to find the funds for humanitarian and medical aid, because this is what, at this moment, Ukraine needs. We need some support... to keep going for our future, our independence, and our democratic way." The 2004 Ballon d'Or winner recently visited Poland for a meet-and-greet with children who had fled the country, evading war and are currently facing an uncertain future as refugees. During his tour of the country, he waxed lyrical about the philanthropic efforts of fellow athletes, Iga Swiatek and Robert Lewandowski. The former recently organized and starred in a charity match to raise funds for Ukrainians in need of financial support. ALSO READ: Cristiano Ronaldo beats Manchester United teammates in a sprint after being benched due to fitness issues "This is very important because, at the moment, athletes are icons for the younger generation. For people to take a position against the war is very important, to send the message across the world to be against the war and to support peace in Ukraine." Although Russia's invasion of Ukraine has been covered extensively by the international media, Shevchenko urged countries not to forget about them as the news cycle tends to move on. He offered fans insight into their situation, claiming that the country and its citizens repeatedly found themselves at the receiving end of bombs.

'Support peace in Ukraine'- Former Chelsea star and Ballon d'Or winner calls for int'l backing in war effort

The World Cup in Qatar will kick off a day earlier than scheduled, governing body FIFA said on Thursday after its ruling bureau agreed unanimously to hold the opening ceremony and the host nation's first match on Sunday, November&nbsp;20. The original plan was for the opening ceremony to be held before Qatar's game on Nov. 21 against Ecuador, which would have created the unusual situation of two matches — Senegal v Netherlands and England v Iran — being held before the ceremony.

Normally, the ceremony is conducted before the kick-off of the first game of the tournament. Hosts Qatar will now make their World Cup debut against Ecuador at 1900 local time after an opening ceremony at the 60,000-capacity Al Bayt Stadium. The change is in line with the long-standing tradition of opening matches involving hosts or holders.

The Group A match between Senegal and Netherlands, originally scheduled to be the tournament opener, has been pushed back by six hours from 1300 local time on Nov. 21 to the 1900 slot vacated by Qatar v Ecuador. England's Group B match with Iran and the United States'&nbsp;opener against Wales, which are also scheduled for Nov. 21, remain unaffected by the change.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/football/qatar-world-cup-to-kick-off-sooner-than-expected-as-fifa-allows-hosts-to-play-first-report-505602">Qatar World Cup to kick off sooner than expected as FIFA allows hosts to play first - Report</a>

The plan has been signed off by a committee comprising of the heads of FIFA's six regional confederations and president Gianni Infantino. "The decision followed an assessment of the competition and operational implications, as well as a thorough consultation process and an agreement with key stakeholders and the host country," FIFA said.

The change stretches the World Cup to 29 days until the Dec. 18 final and comes after several rounds of ticket sales, with organisers having sold 1.8 million tickets so far. "Ticket holders will be duly notified by email that the relevant matches have been rescheduled and their tickets will remain valid irrespective of the new date/time," FIFA added.

"In addition, FIFA will seek to address any issues arising from this change in a case-by-case basis." 
 
It will be the first World Cup staged in the Middle East and has been pushed back to later in the year than its typical June-July schedule to avoid the region's punishing summer heat.

The World Cup in Qatar will kick off a day earlier than scheduled, governing body FIFA said on Thursday after its ruling bureau agreed unanimously to hold the opening ceremony and the host nation's first match on Sunday, November 20.

The World Cup in Qatar will kick off a day earlier than scheduled, governing body FIFA said on Thursday after its ruling bureau agreed unanimously to hold the opening ceremony and the host nation's first match on Sunday, November 20. The original plan was for the opening ceremony to be held before Qatar's game on Nov. 21 against Ecuador, which would have created the unusual situation of two matches — Senegal v Netherlands and England v Iran — being held before the ceremony. Normally, the ceremony is conducted before the kick-off of the first game of the tournament. Hosts Qatar will now make their World Cup debut against Ecuador at 1900 local time after an opening ceremony at the 60,000-capacity Al Bayt Stadium. The change is in line with the long-standing tradition of opening matches involving hosts or holders. The Group A match between Senegal and Netherlands, originally scheduled to be the tournament opener, has been pushed back by six hours from 1300 local time on Nov. 21 to the 1900 slot vacated by Qatar v Ecuador. England's Group B match with Iran and the United States' opener against Wales, which are also scheduled for Nov. 21, remain unaffected by the change. ALSO READ | Qatar World Cup to kick off sooner than expected as FIFA allows hosts to play first - Report The plan has been signed off by a committee comprising of the heads of FIFA's six regional confederations and president Gianni Infantino. "The decision followed an assessment of the competition and operational implications, as well as a thorough consultation process and an agreement with key stakeholders and the host country," FIFA said. The change stretches the World Cup to 29 days until the Dec. 18 final and comes after several rounds of ticket sales, with organisers having sold 1.8 million tickets so far. "Ticket holders will be duly notified by email that the relevant matches have been rescheduled and their tickets will remain valid irrespective of the new date/time," FIFA added. "In addition, FIFA will seek to address any issues arising from this change in a case-by-case basis." It will be the first World Cup staged in the Middle East and has been pushed back to later in the year than its typical June-July schedule to avoid the region's punishing summer heat.

FIFA moves Qatar World Cup start forward by a day, to kick off on November 20

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