<p>Gymnastics star&nbsp;Simone&nbsp;Biles, actor Denzel Washington and the late tech visionary Steve Jobs have been named as recipients of America's highest civilian honour, the White House said Friday. President Joe Biden designated 17 Americans to receive the Presidential Medal of Freedom, three of them posthumous.</p>

<p>The White House said the medal recognises "exemplary contributions to the prosperity, values, or security of the United States, world peace, or other significant societal, public or private endeavors." Among the recipients is Megan Rapinoe, the Olympic gold medalist soccer star, two-time Women's World Cup champion and outspoken advocate on equality, race and LGBTQ issues.</p>

<p>Ahead of a ceremony on July 7, the White House said those honored had "overcome significant obstacles... and acted with bravery to drive change in their communities -- &nbsp;and across the world -- while blazing trails for generations to come."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/swimmer-mary-sophie-harvey-makes-heads-turn-reveals-she-was-drugged-on-last-night-of-world-cships-495477"><strong>Swimmer Mary-Sophie Harvey makes heads turn, reveals she was drugged on last night of World C'ships</strong></a></p>

<p>One posthumous recipient this year is John McCain, a one-time Republican presidential nominee, long-time senator from Arizona, and Vietnam War veteran who won a Purple Heart.</p>

<p>Previous winners of the presidential medal include the basketball legend Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Motown singer Diana Ross and the actor Robert De Niro.</p>


Gymnastics star Simone Biles, actor Denzel Washington and the late tech visionary Steve Jobs have been named as recipients of America's highest civilian honour, the White House said Friday.

Gymnastics star Simone Biles, actor Denzel Washington and the late tech visionary Steve Jobs have been named as recipients of America's highest civilian honour, the White House said Friday. President Joe Biden designated 17 Americans to receive the Presidential Medal of Freedom, three of them posthumous. The White House said the medal recognises "exemplary contributions to the prosperity, values, or security of the United States, world peace, or other significant societal, public or private endeavors." Among the recipients is Megan Rapinoe, the Olympic gold medalist soccer star, two-time Women's World Cup champion and outspoken advocate on equality, race and LGBTQ issues. Ahead of a ceremony on July 7, the White House said those honored had "overcome significant obstacles... and acted with bravery to drive change in their communities -- and across the world -- while blazing trails for generations to come." ALSO READ | Swimmer Mary-Sophie Harvey makes heads turn, reveals she was drugged on last night of World C'ships One posthumous recipient this year is John McCain, a one-time Republican presidential nominee, long-time senator from Arizona, and Vietnam War veteran who won a Purple Heart. Previous winners of the presidential medal include the basketball legend Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Motown singer Diana Ross and the actor Robert De Niro.

Gymnastics star Simone Biles among winners of top US honour

<p>Rohit Sharma returned to the 22-yard cricket strip for Team India when the Men in Blue played the first T20I, of the three-match series, versus hosts England on Thursday (July 07) in Southampton. Hitman's presence worked wonders for a second-stringed Indian team, who defeated Jos Buttler &amp; Co. by 50 runs to take a 1-0 lead.&nbsp;</p>

<p>With this win, Indian captain Rohit also scripted history by becoming the first-ever skipper to record 13 successive wins in the shortest format of the game. BCCI's official Twitter handle shared a post for the 35-year-old Rohit following his massive feat:</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">🚨 Milestone Alert 🚨<br />
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First captain to win 1⃣3⃣ successive T20Is - Congratulations, <a href="https://twitter.com/ImRo45?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ImRo45</a>. 👏 👏<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ENGvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ENGvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/izEGfIfFTn">pic.twitter.com/izEGfIfFTn</a></p>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1545156813837856769?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 7, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>Rohit has not yet lost a single T20I ever since he became the full-time captain after Virat Kohli's resignation following the 2021 T20 World Cup. Since then, India have been on a winning spree under Rohit, beating the likes of New Zealand, West Indies, and Sri Lanka at home before the 1st T20I victory over England, at the Rose Bowl, Southampton.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/hardik-pandya-brilliance-powers-india-to-win-over-england-in-first-t20i-495430">Hardik Pandya brilliance powers India to win over England in first T20I</a></strong></p>

<p>Talking about the series opener, played on Thursday, India opted to bat first and rode on quickfire knocks from Deepak Hooda (33), Suryakumar Yadav (39) and Hardik Pandya's 51 to post 198-8. In reply, Hardik starred with the bat to return with 4 for 33 whereas Yuzvendra Chahal and Arshdeep Singh accounted for two scalps each to dismiss England for 148 in 19.3 overs.</p>

<p>At the post-match presentation, Rohit said, "Great performance from ball one. All batters showed intent. Although the pitch was good, we played good shots and never got ahead of the game. You got to make use of those six overs in the powerplay. There is a certain approach we want to take in the powerplay. You got to back yourself in this game, sometimes it comes off, sometimes it doesn't. The whole batting unit needs to understand the direction the team is taking and the guys were spot on today. I was impressed with his (Hardik) bowling. He wants to do that a lot more in the future, bowled quick and used his variations too. Of course his batting is there for us to see. That's the reason we wanted to bat (ball swinging under lights). Sometimes it does swing in the evenings and we wanted to utilize that. Both the new ball bowlers used the swing and stopped their batters. We were sloppy on the field. Those catches should have been taken. Pretty sure we will field pretty well in the coming games."</p>


Rohit Sharma returned to the 22-yard cricket strip for Team India when the Men in Blue played the first T20I, of the three-match series, versus hosts England on Thursday (July 07) in Southampton.

Rohit Sharma returned to the 22-yard cricket strip for Team India when the Men in Blue played the first T20I, of the three-match series, versus hosts England on Thursday (July 07) in Southampton. Hitman's presence worked wonders for a second-stringed Indian team, who defeated Jos Buttler & Co. by 50 runs to take a 1-0 lead. With this win, Indian captain Rohit also scripted history by becoming the first-ever skipper to record 13 successive wins in the shortest format of the game. BCCI's official Twitter handle shared a post for the 35-year-old Rohit following his massive feat: 🚨 Milestone Alert 🚨 First captain to win 1⃣3⃣ successive T20Is - Congratulations, @ImRo45. 👏 👏#TeamIndia | #ENGvIND pic.twitter.com/izEGfIfFTn — BCCI (@BCCI) July 7, 2022 × Rohit has not yet lost a single T20I ever since he became the full-time captain after Virat Kohli's resignation following the 2021 T20 World Cup. Since then, India have been on a winning spree under Rohit, beating the likes of New Zealand, West Indies, and Sri Lanka at home before the 1st T20I victory over England, at the Rose Bowl, Southampton. ALSO READ | Hardik Pandya brilliance powers India to win over England in first T20I Talking about the series opener, played on Thursday, India opted to bat first and rode on quickfire knocks from Deepak Hooda (33), Suryakumar Yadav (39) and Hardik Pandya's 51 to post 198-8. In reply, Hardik starred with the bat to return with 4 for 33 whereas Yuzvendra Chahal and Arshdeep Singh accounted for two scalps each to dismiss England for 148 in 19.3 overs. At the post-match presentation, Rohit said, "Great performance from ball one. All batters showed intent. Although the pitch was good, we played good shots and never got ahead of the game. You got to make use of those six overs in the powerplay. There is a certain approach we want to take in the powerplay. You got to back yourself in this game, sometimes it comes off, sometimes it doesn't. The whole batting unit needs to understand the direction the team is taking and the guys were spot on today. I was impressed with his (Hardik) bowling. He wants to do that a lot more in the future, bowled quick and used his variations too. Of course his batting is there for us to see. That's the reason we wanted to bat (ball swinging under lights). Sometimes it does swing in the evenings and we wanted to utilize that. Both the new ball bowlers used the swing and stopped their batters. We were sloppy on the field. Those catches should have been taken. Pretty sure we will field pretty well in the coming games."

ENG vs IND: Rohit Sharma scripts history, becomes first captain to win 13 successive T20Is

<p>The action continues in Wimbledon 2022 edition as Novak Djokovic and Cameron Norrie will square off against each other in the&nbsp;men's semi-finals on Friday evening (July 08). The other semi-final clash was scheduled to take place between Rafael Nadal and Nick Krygios before the former withdrew from the premier tournament due to an abdominal injury.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Hence, Djokovic and Norrie semi-final clash winner will take on the Australian Krygios in the summit clash of the 135th edition of Wimbledon 2022. Talking about the Serbian, Djokovic is coming into this match on the back of a five-set win versus Jannik Sinner whereas Norrie beat David Goffin in five sets during his quarter-final encounter.</p>

<p><strong>Here's the live streaming details of the Novak Djokovic vs Cameron Norrie semi-final&nbsp;match in Wimbledon 2022</strong></p>

<p><strong>Where will Novak Djokovic vs Cameron Norrie semi-final&nbsp;tie in Wimbledon 2022&nbsp;be played?</strong></p>

<p>The&nbsp;Djokovic vs&nbsp;Norrie semi-final&nbsp;match at Wimbledon 2022<strong>&nbsp;</strong>will be played at the&nbsp;Centre Court.</p>

<p><strong>When will the&nbsp;Novak Djokovic vs Cameron Norrie semi-final&nbsp;match in Wimbledon 2022&nbsp;commence?</strong></p>

<p>The Djokovic vs&nbsp;Norrie semi-final&nbsp;clash&nbsp;at Wimbledon 2022&nbsp;will start at 7:15&nbsp;pm IST on Friday evening (July 08).</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-rafael-nadals-family-asks-him-to-quit-amid-fitness-concerns-in-gruelling-qf-clash-vs-taylor-fritz-495353"><strong>WATCH: Nadal's family asks him to quit amid fitness concerns in gruelling Wimbledon QF clash vs Fritz</strong></a></p>

<p><strong>Which TV channels will broadcast Novak Djokovic vs Cameron Norrie semi-final&nbsp;match in Wimbledon 2022?</strong></p>

<p>The&nbsp;Djokovic vs&nbsp;Norrie semi-final&nbsp;tie at Wimbledon 2022 will be&nbsp;broadcast on Sony Sports Network.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>How to watch the live streaming of Novak&nbsp;Djokovic vs Cameron Norrie semi-final&nbsp;match in Wimbledon 2022?</strong></p>

<p>The&nbsp;Djokovic vs&nbsp;Norrie semi-final&nbsp;fixture&nbsp;at Wimbledon 2022 will be available for live streaming&nbsp;on the Disney+ Hotstar website and app.</p>


The action continues in Wimbledon 2022 edition as Novak Djokovic and Cameron Norrie will square off against each other in the men's semi-finals on Friday evening (July 08).

The action continues in Wimbledon 2022 edition as Novak Djokovic and Cameron Norrie will square off against each other in the men's semi-finals on Friday evening (July 08). The other semi-final clash was scheduled to take place between Rafael Nadal and Nick Krygios before the former withdrew from the premier tournament due to an abdominal injury. Hence, Djokovic and Norrie semi-final clash winner will take on the Australian Krygios in the summit clash of the 135th edition of Wimbledon 2022. Talking about the Serbian, Djokovic is coming into this match on the back of a five-set win versus Jannik Sinner whereas Norrie beat David Goffin in five sets during his quarter-final encounter. Here's the live streaming details of the Novak Djokovic vs Cameron Norrie semi-final match in Wimbledon 2022 Where will Novak Djokovic vs Cameron Norrie semi-final tie in Wimbledon 2022 be played? The Djokovic vs Norrie semi-final match at Wimbledon 2022 will be played at the Centre Court. When will the Novak Djokovic vs Cameron Norrie semi-final match in Wimbledon 2022 commence? The Djokovic vs Norrie semi-final clash at Wimbledon 2022 will start at 7:15 pm IST on Friday evening (July 08). ALSO READ | WATCH: Nadal's family asks him to quit amid fitness concerns in gruelling Wimbledon QF clash vs Fritz Which TV channels will broadcast Novak Djokovic vs Cameron Norrie semi-final match in Wimbledon 2022? The Djokovic vs Norrie semi-final tie at Wimbledon 2022 will be broadcast on Sony Sports Network. How to watch the live streaming of Novak Djokovic vs Cameron Norrie semi-final match in Wimbledon 2022? The Djokovic vs Norrie semi-final fixture at Wimbledon 2022 will be available for live streaming on the Disney+ Hotstar website and app.

Novak Djokovic vs Cameron Norrie live streaming: When and where to watch Wimbledon SF tie in India?

<p>Former FIFA President Sepp Blatter and France footballing legend Michel Platini were both cleared of corruption charges by a Swiss court on Friday. Blatter, who led FIFA for 17 years, was cleared of fraud by the Federal Criminal Court in the southern city of Bellinzona.</p>

<p>Platini, a former France national team captain and manager, was also acquitted of fraud.The two, once among the most powerful figures in global soccer, had denied the charges against them. On Friday they joked and shook hands before the judgment and looked relieved as the verdict was read out.<br />
Platini described his joy after the acquittal, saying the allegations had turned him from a legend of world soccer to a "devil".</p>

<p>"I want to express my happiness for all my loved ones that justice has finally been done after seven years of lies and manipulation," Platini said in a statement. "The truth has come to light during this trial," he added. "I kept saying it: my fight is a fight against injustice. I won a first game."</p>

<p>Prosecutors had accused Blatter, a Swiss who led global soccer body FIFA for 17 years, and Platini of unlawfully arranging for FIFA to pay the Frenchman two million Swiss francs ($2.06 million) in 2011. The case meant Blatter ended his reign as FIFA president in disgrace and it wrecked Platini`s hopes of succeeding him after he was banned from football when the affair came to light.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fifa-world-cup-2022-stadiums-to-be-alcohol-free-for-mega-event-in-qatar-495499">FIFA World Cup 2022: Stadiums to be alcohol-free for mega event in Qatar</a></strong></p>

<p>Blatter, 86, had said the two-million franc payment followed a "gentlemen`s agreement" between the pair when he asked Platini to be his technical adviser in 1998. Platini, 67, worked as a consultant between 1998 and 2002 with an annual salary of 300,000 Swiss francs -- the most FIFA could afford because of money troubles the organisation had at the time, Blatter has told the court.</p>

<p>The rest of Platini`s one million per year salary was to be settled at a later date, Blatter said. The senior judge, Josephine Contu Albrizio, said a verbal agreement between Blatter and Platini seemed credible, as did the Frenchman`s seeing his market value at 1 million per year due to his status in the game.<br />
It also seemed implausible that Platini would have worked only on the basis of written contract that paid him such a paltry sum, the judge told the court.</p>

<p>It was also credible that Platini sought the extra money only in 2010 as he did not need the money immediately. The payment emerged following a huge investigation launched by the U.S. Department of Justice into bribery, fraud and money-laundering at FIFA in 2015, which triggered Blatter`s resignation.<br />
Both officials were banned in 2015 from soccer for eight years over the payment, although their bans were later reduced.</p>

<p>Platini, who also lost his job as UEFA president following the ban, said the affair was a deliberate attempt to thwart his attempt to become FIFA president in 2015. Platini`s former general secretary at UEFA, Gianni Infantino, entered the FIFA race and won the election in 2016.</p>


Former FIFA President Sepp Blatter and France footballing legend Michel Platini were both cleared of corruption charges by a Swiss court on Friday. Blatter, who led FIFA for 17 years, was cleared of fraud by the Federal Criminal Court in the southern city of Bellinzona.

Former FIFA President Sepp Blatter and France footballing legend Michel Platini were both cleared of corruption charges by a Swiss court on Friday. Blatter, who led FIFA for 17 years, was cleared of fraud by the Federal Criminal Court in the southern city of Bellinzona. Platini, a former France national team captain and manager, was also acquitted of fraud.The two, once among the most powerful figures in global soccer, had denied the charges against them. On Friday they joked and shook hands before the judgment and looked relieved as the verdict was read out. Platini described his joy after the acquittal, saying the allegations had turned him from a legend of world soccer to a "devil". "I want to express my happiness for all my loved ones that justice has finally been done after seven years of lies and manipulation," Platini said in a statement. "The truth has come to light during this trial," he added. "I kept saying it: my fight is a fight against injustice. I won a first game." Prosecutors had accused Blatter, a Swiss who led global soccer body FIFA for 17 years, and Platini of unlawfully arranging for FIFA to pay the Frenchman two million Swiss francs ($2.06 million) in 2011. The case meant Blatter ended his reign as FIFA president in disgrace and it wrecked Platini`s hopes of succeeding him after he was banned from football when the affair came to light. ALSO READ | FIFA World Cup 2022: Stadiums to be alcohol-free for mega event in Qatar Blatter, 86, had said the two-million franc payment followed a "gentlemen`s agreement" between the pair when he asked Platini to be his technical adviser in 1998. Platini, 67, worked as a consultant between 1998 and 2002 with an annual salary of 300,000 Swiss francs -- the most FIFA could afford because of money troubles the organisation had at the time, Blatter has told the court. The rest of Platini`s one million per year salary was to be settled at a later date, Blatter said. The senior judge, Josephine Contu Albrizio, said a verbal agreement between Blatter and Platini seemed credible, as did the Frenchman`s seeing his market value at 1 million per year due to his status in the game. It also seemed implausible that Platini would have worked only on the basis of written contract that paid him such a paltry sum, the judge told the court. It was also credible that Platini sought the extra money only in 2010 as he did not need the money immediately. The payment emerged following a huge investigation launched by the U.S. Department of Justice into bribery, fraud and money-laundering at FIFA in 2015, which triggered Blatter`s resignation. Both officials were banned in 2015 from soccer for eight years over the payment, although their bans were later reduced. Platini, who also lost his job as UEFA president following the ban, said the affair was a deliberate attempt to thwart his attempt to become FIFA president in 2015. Platini`s former general secretary at UEFA, Gianni Infantino, entered the FIFA race and won the election in 2016.

Former FIFA President Sepp Blatter, France football legend Michel Platini cleared of fraud in Swiss trial

<p>It is Sourav Ganguly's 50th birthday on Friday (July 08). The former Indian captain and current BCCI President turns 50 as the whole cricketing fraternity joined in to wish him on his special day. Ganguly was instrumental in the rise of Indian cricket post the shambolic match-fixing saga, which rocked the national team&nbsp;in the early 2000s, and led the Men in Blue&nbsp;from 2000-2005.</p>

<p>Under Ganguly, India revamped and produced a host of talented cricketers such as Yuvraj Singh, Harbhajan Singh, MS Dhoni, Virender Sehwag, Zaheer Khan, Ashish Nehra, Mohammed Kaif, etc. whereas seniors such as Rahul Dravid, VVS Laxman, Javagal Srinath, Anil Kumble and Sachin Tendulkar also enjoyed a long and successful run. Ganguly retired from international cricket in 2008, with over 7,212 and 11,363 Test and ODI runs, respectively. He is serving as the BCCI chief since late 2019 and currently is in London with his family and friends for his 50th birthday.</p>

<p>On his birthday, Ganguly made heads turn by grooving to famous Bollywood songs in the streets of London with his family -- daughter Sana and wife Dona -- friends and a group of fans. <strong>Here's a video where Ganguly can be seen enjoying himself and dancing all-out in celebrations:</strong></p>

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<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/tv/Cfu_hk9IAhW/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Satadru Dutta (@satadrutravel)</a></p>
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<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sourav-ganguly-built-a-new-team-doubt-if-virat-kohli-did-the-same-as-captain-says-virender-sehwag-480429"><strong>Sourav Ganguly built a new team, doubt if Virat Kohli did the same as captain, says Virender Sehwag</strong></a></p>

<p>A lot of Ganguly's former teammates have also wished him on his 50th birthday. Former cricketers such as Yuvraj, Pragyan Ojha, Parthiv Patel, Harbhajan, etc. have shared wishes for the former left-hander on Twitter.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ex-India all-rounder Yuvi wrote, "Happy Birthday Dada! You’ve been a great friend, an impactful captain and a senior any youngster would want to learn from. Wishing you good health and happiness on your special day lots of love and best wishes always."</p>


It is Sourav Ganguly's 50th birthday on Friday (July 08). The former Indian captain and current BCCI President turns 50 as the whole cricketing fraternity joined in to wish him on his special day.

It is Sourav Ganguly's 50th birthday on Friday (July 08). The former Indian captain and current BCCI President turns 50 as the whole cricketing fraternity joined in to wish him on his special day. Ganguly was instrumental in the rise of Indian cricket post the shambolic match-fixing saga, which rocked the national team in the early 2000s, and led the Men in Blue from 2000-2005. Under Ganguly, India revamped and produced a host of talented cricketers such as Yuvraj Singh, Harbhajan Singh, MS Dhoni, Virender Sehwag, Zaheer Khan, Ashish Nehra, Mohammed Kaif, etc. whereas seniors such as Rahul Dravid, VVS Laxman, Javagal Srinath, Anil Kumble and Sachin Tendulkar also enjoyed a long and successful run. Ganguly retired from international cricket in 2008, with over 7,212 and 11,363 Test and ODI runs, respectively. He is serving as the BCCI chief since late 2019 and currently is in London with his family and friends for his 50th birthday. On his birthday, Ganguly made heads turn by grooving to famous Bollywood songs in the streets of London with his family -- daughter Sana and wife Dona -- friends and a group of fans. Here's a video where Ganguly can be seen enjoying himself and dancing all-out in celebrations: View this post on Instagram A post shared by Satadru Dutta (@satadrutravel) × × ALSO READ | Sourav Ganguly built a new team, doubt if Virat Kohli did the same as captain, says Virender Sehwag A lot of Ganguly's former teammates have also wished him on his 50th birthday. Former cricketers such as Yuvraj, Pragyan Ojha, Parthiv Patel, Harbhajan, etc. have shared wishes for the former left-hander on Twitter. Ex-India all-rounder Yuvi wrote, "Happy Birthday Dada! You’ve been a great friend, an impactful captain and a senior any youngster would want to learn from. Wishing you good health and happiness on your special day lots of love and best wishes always."

VIRAL: Sourav Ganguly dances with daughter Sana in the streets of London on his 50th birthday - WATCH

<p>All eyes are now on the forthcoming FIFA World Cup, to be held in Qatar later this year. Ahead of the mega event, which will be the first to be played in a Muslim country, Qatar's World Cup stadiums are set to be alcohol-free with beer sales outside arenas only allowed prior to and after the conclusion of some matches, a source with knowledge of plans for the football tournament revealed.</p>

<p>Thus, the alcohol ban can present&nbsp;a unique challenge for the organisers of the showpiece event as often fans can be seen enjoying their drinks&nbsp;sponsored by global brewing brands in such tournaments.</p>

<p>"At stadiums, the plans are still being finalised, but the current discussion is to allow fans to have beer upon arrival and when leaving stadium, but beer won't be served during the match or inside the stadium bowl," the source told Reuters.</p>

<p>Football's relationship with booze has long become a lot more tricky in recent times. For the unversed, in the lead up to the 2014 FIFA World Cup, Brazil had to lift a ban on alcohol at stadiums owing to pressure&nbsp;from governing body FIFA.</p>

<p>There were dark clouds hovering over&nbsp;the availability of alcohols at this year's competition&nbsp;ever since the Gulf Arab state won the hosting rights in 2010. Nonetheless, it is believed that the fans&nbsp;will&nbsp;be able to buy beer during restricted times in certain parts of the main FIFA fan zone in the Al Bidda park in Doha, the Qatari capital. "Unlike previous World Cup fan zones, beer won't be served all day long, but at restricted times," the source added.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/explained-fifas-new-high-technology-for-offside-calls-at-2022-qatar-world-cup-493572"><strong>EXPLAINED: FIFA's new high technology for offside calls at 2022 Qatar World Cup</strong></a></p>

<p>A spokesperson for the organisers -- Qatar's Supreme Committee for Delivery and Legacy -- has pointed out&nbsp;that together with FIFA they will reveal the plans regarding&nbsp;alcohol availability&nbsp;"in due course".</p>

<p>"Alcohol is already available in designated areas in Qatar, such as hotels and bars, and this will not change in 2022. With the aim of catering to visiting fans in 2022, alcohol will be available in additional designated areas during the tournament," the spokesperson said.</p>

<p>The upcoming 32-nation World Cup will be the first to be held&nbsp;at the end of the calendar year in November and December. France will enter the tournament as the defending champions, beating Croatia 4-2 in last edition's final.</p>


All eyes are now on the forthcoming FIFA World Cup, to be held in Qatar later this year. Ahead of the mega event, which will be the first to be played in a Muslim country, Qatar's World Cup stadiums are set to be alcohol-free with beer sales outside arenas only allowed prior to and after the conclusion of some matches, a source with knowledge of plans for the football tournament revealed.

All eyes are now on the forthcoming FIFA World Cup, to be held in Qatar later this year. Ahead of the mega event, which will be the first to be played in a Muslim country, Qatar's World Cup stadiums are set to be alcohol-free with beer sales outside arenas only allowed prior to and after the conclusion of some matches, a source with knowledge of plans for the football tournament revealed. Thus, the alcohol ban can present a unique challenge for the organisers of the showpiece event as often fans can be seen enjoying their drinks sponsored by global brewing brands in such tournaments. "At stadiums, the plans are still being finalised, but the current discussion is to allow fans to have beer upon arrival and when leaving stadium, but beer won't be served during the match or inside the stadium bowl," the source told Reuters. Football's relationship with booze has long become a lot more tricky in recent times. For the unversed, in the lead up to the 2014 FIFA World Cup, Brazil had to lift a ban on alcohol at stadiums owing to pressure from governing body FIFA. There were dark clouds hovering over the availability of alcohols at this year's competition ever since the Gulf Arab state won the hosting rights in 2010. Nonetheless, it is believed that the fans will be able to buy beer during restricted times in certain parts of the main FIFA fan zone in the Al Bidda park in Doha, the Qatari capital. "Unlike previous World Cup fan zones, beer won't be served all day long, but at restricted times," the source added. ALSO READ | EXPLAINED: FIFA's new high technology for offside calls at 2022 Qatar World Cup A spokesperson for the organisers -- Qatar's Supreme Committee for Delivery and Legacy -- has pointed out that together with FIFA they will reveal the plans regarding alcohol availability "in due course". "Alcohol is already available in designated areas in Qatar, such as hotels and bars, and this will not change in 2022. With the aim of catering to visiting fans in 2022, alcohol will be available in additional designated areas during the tournament," the spokesperson said. The upcoming 32-nation World Cup will be the first to be held at the end of the calendar year in November and December. France will enter the tournament as the defending champions, beating Croatia 4-2 in last edition's final.

FIFA World Cup 2022: Stadiums to be alcohol-free for mega event in Qatar

<p>A&nbsp;Commonwealth&nbsp;Games&nbsp;weightlifting&nbsp;champion and Olympian has become the first&nbsp;Covid-related death in the tiny Pacific island republic of Nauru, the world's second-smallest nation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Reanna Solomon, only&nbsp;40&nbsp;years of age, lost her life as a result of the&nbsp;Covid-19 virus," the Oceania&nbsp;Weightlifting&nbsp;Federation said in a statement Thursday.&nbsp;President Lionel Aingimea had previously announced the death without disclosing the name, saying the first person to die with&nbsp;Covid&nbsp;in Nauru had passed away on July 1.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Solomon won two&nbsp;gold&nbsp;medals in the super-heavyweight division at the 2002&nbsp;Commonwealth&nbsp;Games in Manchester and placed 10th at the Athens Olympics two years later.&nbsp;"Apart from being a great athlete, Reanna was a devoted mother and wife and has sadly left behind her husband Tavita and their five children," Paul Coffa, the general secretary of the&nbsp;Commonwealth&nbsp;Weightlifting&nbsp;Federation, said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/womens-euro-2022-england-make-winning-start-in-front-of-record-crowd-495147">Women's Euro 2022: England make winning start in front of record crowd</a></strong></p>

<p>"Reanna was a superb athlete, naturally strong, who started competing in&nbsp;weightlifting&nbsp;in the 1990s."&nbsp; Nauru, with a population of fewer than 11,000, has more than 4,100 active&nbsp;Covid&nbsp;cases.&nbsp;</p>

<p>To curb the spread of the disease, the government has introduced on-the-spot fines of up to $6,800 for people walking around for non-essential reasons, not wearing a mask, and for gatherings of more than three people.</p>


A Commonwealth Games weightlifting champion and Olympian has become the first Covid-related death in the tiny Pacific island republic of Nauru, the world's second-smallest nation.

A Commonwealth Games weightlifting champion and Olympian has become the first Covid-related death in the tiny Pacific island republic of Nauru, the world's second-smallest nation. "Reanna Solomon, only 40 years of age, lost her life as a result of the Covid-19 virus," the Oceania Weightlifting Federation said in a statement Thursday. President Lionel Aingimea had previously announced the death without disclosing the name, saying the first person to die with Covid in Nauru had passed away on July 1. Solomon won two gold medals in the super-heavyweight division at the 2002 Commonwealth Games in Manchester and placed 10th at the Athens Olympics two years later. "Apart from being a great athlete, Reanna was a devoted mother and wife and has sadly left behind her husband Tavita and their five children," Paul Coffa, the general secretary of the Commonwealth Weightlifting Federation, said. ALSO READ | Women's Euro 2022: England make winning start in front of record crowd "Reanna was a superb athlete, naturally strong, who started competing in weightlifting in the 1990s." Nauru, with a population of fewer than 11,000, has more than 4,100 active Covid cases. To curb the spread of the disease, the government has introduced on-the-spot fines of up to $6,800 for people walking around for non-essential reasons, not wearing a mask, and for gatherings of more than three people.

Reanna Solomon, Commonwealth weightlifting gold medallist, dies of Covid aged 40

<p>Ons Jabeur became the first African woman in the Open era to reach a Grand Slam singles final on Thursday when she defeated close friend Tatjana Maria in the Wimbledon semi-finals.</p>

<p>The 27-year-old world number two from Tunisia triumphed 6-2, 3-6, 6-1 and will face either 2019 champion Simona Halep or Elena Rybakina in Saturday's championship match.</p>

<p>"I'm a proud Tunisian woman standing here," said Jabeur, who was the first Arab player to make a Slam semi-final.&nbsp; Before Thursday, South Africans Irene Bowder Peacock, at the 1927 French Open, and Renee Schuurman, in the 1959 Australian Open, were the only African women to have reached a Slam singles final.</p>

<p>"It's a dream come true from years of work and sacrifice. I'm happy that's paid off and I'll continue for one more match," said Jabeur.</p>

<p>"Physically, Tatjana is a beast, she doesn't give up -- I thought she would give up -- her touch, her serve and everything on the court is impressive. I hope she continues this way. Let's not play again, I'm good for now.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wimbledon-sfs-injured-rafael-nadal-turns-up-for-practice-before-nick-kyrgios-showdown-495365"><strong>Wimbledon SFs: Injured Rafael Nadal turns up for practice before Nick Kyrgios showdown</strong></a></p>

<p>"I know in Tunisia they are going crazy right now. I want to see more Arab and African players on the tour. I love the game and I want to share the experience with them."</p>

<p>Jabeur coasted through the first set against mother-of-two Maria with breaks in the third and seventh games.</p>

<p>The Tunisian fired 15 winners to her opponent's six in the first set while not facing a single break point.</p>

<p>However, Maria, described by Jabeur as her "barbecue buddy", did manage to finally break through for 3-1 in the second set off the back of a series of delicate slices.</p>

<p>Jabeur's 17 unforced errors in the second set compared to the six of the more accurate German, who levelled the contest.</p>

<p>But there was to be no upset win as the 103rd-ranked Maria's challenge was quashed.</p>

<p>Jabeur secured a double break for a 5-0 advantage before securing her place in history on a second match point.</p>


Ons Jabeur became the first African woman in the Open era to reach a Grand Slam singles final on Thursday when she defeated close friend Tatjana Maria in the Wimbledon semi-finals.

Ons Jabeur became the first African woman in the Open era to reach a Grand Slam singles final on Thursday when she defeated close friend Tatjana Maria in the Wimbledon semi-finals. The 27-year-old world number two from Tunisia triumphed 6-2, 3-6, 6-1 and will face either 2019 champion Simona Halep or Elena Rybakina in Saturday's championship match. "I'm a proud Tunisian woman standing here," said Jabeur, who was the first Arab player to make a Slam semi-final. Before Thursday, South Africans Irene Bowder Peacock, at the 1927 French Open, and Renee Schuurman, in the 1959 Australian Open, were the only African women to have reached a Slam singles final. "It's a dream come true from years of work and sacrifice. I'm happy that's paid off and I'll continue for one more match," said Jabeur. "Physically, Tatjana is a beast, she doesn't give up -- I thought she would give up -- her touch, her serve and everything on the court is impressive. I hope she continues this way. Let's not play again, I'm good for now. ALSO READ | Wimbledon SFs: Injured Rafael Nadal turns up for practice before Nick Kyrgios showdown "I know in Tunisia they are going crazy right now. I want to see more Arab and African players on the tour. I love the game and I want to share the experience with them." Jabeur coasted through the first set against mother-of-two Maria with breaks in the third and seventh games. The Tunisian fired 15 winners to her opponent's six in the first set while not facing a single break point. However, Maria, described by Jabeur as her "barbecue buddy", did manage to finally break through for 3-1 in the second set off the back of a series of delicate slices. Jabeur's 17 unforced errors in the second set compared to the six of the more accurate German, who levelled the contest. But there was to be no upset win as the 103rd-ranked Maria's challenge was quashed. Jabeur secured a double break for a 5-0 advantage before securing her place in history on a second match point.

Ons Jabeur makes African history with Wimbledon final spot, beats Tatjana Maria in three sets

<p>Cricket officials are to deploy undercover spotters into the crowd at Edgbaston during Saturday's Twenty20 international between England and India in a bid to combat racist abuse.</p>

<p>Warwickshire, the English county whse headquarters are at the Birmingham ground, have announced several measures in a bid to stamp out&nbsp;racism&nbsp;after several fans reported incidents of abuse during England's recent Test match against India at Edgbaston.</p>

<p>Police have already launched inquiries into allegations of racist remarks made on Monday, the fourth day of five, which ended with England winning a dramatic match by seven wickets.</p>

<p>Undercover football crowd-style spotters will be placed throughout the stadium to listen out for abusive behaviour and report it for immediate action," said a Warwickshire statement.</p>

<p>Stuart Cain, Warwickshire's chief executive, said the club had to do more to combat the kind of incidents that marred the Test match.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/explained-how-can-team-india-enter-world-test-championship-final-after-losing-edgbaston-test-494937"><strong>Explained: How can Team India enter World Test Championship final after losing Edgbaston Test</strong></a></p>

<p>"Nearly 100,000 people watched one of the most exciting Test matches in recent history earlier this week," he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"But we cannot hide from the mindless racist abuse experienced by some fans following India in the Eric Hollies Stand.</p>

<p>"These unacceptable actions by a small number of people have overshadowed a superb sporting contest, and those responsible do not deserve to be part of the cricket family.</p>

<p>"We need to work harder as people, as well as a venue, to take responsibility for ensuring that everyone feels safe and welcome when watching the game."</p>

<p>The Bharat Army, the official India supporters' club, said "many" of its members at the Edgbaston ground had been targeted by "a very small minority".</p>

<p>The three-match T20 series between England and India gets underway at Hampshire's Ageas Bowl ground near Southampton later Thursday.</p>


Cricket officials are to deploy undercover spotters into the crowd at Edgbaston during Saturday's Twenty20 international between England and India in a bid to combat racist abuse.

Cricket officials are to deploy undercover spotters into the crowd at Edgbaston during Saturday's Twenty20 international between England and India in a bid to combat racist abuse. Warwickshire, the English county whse headquarters are at the Birmingham ground, have announced several measures in a bid to stamp out racism after several fans reported incidents of abuse during England's recent Test match against India at Edgbaston. Police have already launched inquiries into allegations of racist remarks made on Monday, the fourth day of five, which ended with England winning a dramatic match by seven wickets. Undercover football crowd-style spotters will be placed throughout the stadium to listen out for abusive behaviour and report it for immediate action," said a Warwickshire statement. Stuart Cain, Warwickshire's chief executive, said the club had to do more to combat the kind of incidents that marred the Test match. ALSO READ | Explained: How can Team India enter World Test Championship final after losing Edgbaston Test "Nearly 100,000 people watched one of the most exciting Test matches in recent history earlier this week," he said. "But we cannot hide from the mindless racist abuse experienced by some fans following India in the Eric Hollies Stand. "These unacceptable actions by a small number of people have overshadowed a superb sporting contest, and those responsible do not deserve to be part of the cricket family. "We need to work harder as people, as well as a venue, to take responsibility for ensuring that everyone feels safe and welcome when watching the game." The Bharat Army, the official India supporters' club, said "many" of its members at the Edgbaston ground had been targeted by "a very small minority". The three-match T20 series between England and India gets underway at Hampshire's Ageas Bowl ground near Southampton later Thursday.

Undercover 'spotters' at Edgbaston in bid to combat racism during England-India 2nd T20I

<p>Rafa Nadal turned up for practice at Wimbledon on Thursday a day after the 22-times Grand Slam winner played through an abdominal injury to beat American Taylor Fritz in an absorbing quarter-final. The Spaniard was back hitting forehands and backhands on the practice courts at Aorangi Park a day before his semi-final against Nick Kyrgios, and also went through his service motions.</p>

<p>Nadal had said that he did not know if he would be fit to play against Australian Kyrgios, after appearing close to retiring mid-match against Fritz on Centre Court. The 36-year-old Nadal, who is chasing a rare calendar-year Grand Slam after winning the Australian and French Open titles this year, also said he would undergo more scans on Thursday before deciding what to do.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-rafael-nadals-family-asks-him-to-quit-amid-fitness-concerns-in-gruelling-qf-clash-vs-taylor-fritz-495353"><strong>WATCH: Nadal's family asks him to quit amid fitness concerns in gruelling Wimbledon QF clash vs Fritz</strong></a></p>

<p>Nadal`s serve speed dropped drastically from the end of the second set against Fritz, after he took a medical time-out, but he still clinched the tie in a final-set tiebreaker. A third Wimbledon title, and first since 2010 on the manicured lawns, plus a U.S. Open triumph at Flushing Meadows in September would see the Mallorcan claim the calendar slam -- a feat last achieved in 1969 by Australian great Rod Laver.</p>


Rafa Nadal turned up for practice at Wimbledon on Thursday a day after the 22-times Grand Slam winner played through an abdominal injury to beat American Taylor Fritz in an absorbing quarter-final.

Rafa Nadal turned up for practice at Wimbledon on Thursday a day after the 22-times Grand Slam winner played through an abdominal injury to beat American Taylor Fritz in an absorbing quarter-final. The Spaniard was back hitting forehands and backhands on the practice courts at Aorangi Park a day before his semi-final against Nick Kyrgios, and also went through his service motions. Nadal had said that he did not know if he would be fit to play against Australian Kyrgios, after appearing close to retiring mid-match against Fritz on Centre Court. The 36-year-old Nadal, who is chasing a rare calendar-year Grand Slam after winning the Australian and French Open titles this year, also said he would undergo more scans on Thursday before deciding what to do. ALSO READ | WATCH: Nadal's family asks him to quit amid fitness concerns in gruelling Wimbledon QF clash vs Fritz Nadal`s serve speed dropped drastically from the end of the second set against Fritz, after he took a medical time-out, but he still clinched the tie in a final-set tiebreaker. A third Wimbledon title, and first since 2010 on the manicured lawns, plus a U.S. Open triumph at Flushing Meadows in September would see the Mallorcan claim the calendar slam -- a feat last achieved in 1969 by Australian great Rod Laver.

Wimbledon SFs: Injured Rafael Nadal turns up for practice before Nick Kyrgios showdown

<p>Top knocks from captain Harmanpreet Kaur and Pooja Vastrakar and an amazing bowling spell from Rajeshwari Gayakwad helped India complete a clean sweep over Sri Lanka with a 39-run win here at Pallekele on Thursday. Captain Harmanpreet Kaur (75), Pooja Vastrakar (56*) and Shafali Verma (49) lead the Indian batting from the front, taking the visitors to 255/9 in their 50 overs. Spinner Inoka Ranaweera was the pick of the bowlers with 2/22.</p>

<p>Captain Chamari Athapaththu and Rashmi Silva also took two wickets each. Sri Lanka was bundled out for just 216. Captain Chamari Athapaththu (44), Hasini Perera (39) and Hasini Perera (48) played some solid knocks, though not enough for their team`s cause. Gayakwad lead the Indian bowling attack from the front with 3/36. Put to bat first by SL, India lost Smriti Mandhana for just six when team`s score was just 30. Then opener Shafali Verma and wicketkeeper-batter Yastika Bhatia put on a 59-run stand, which ended with Bhatia being dismissed for 30 by Ranaweera`s spin.</p>

<p>Harleen Deol, Deepti Sharma and Richa Ghosh fell for cheap, reducing India to 6/124. Then captain Kaur and Vastrakar stitched a 97-run stand. The duo brought up their match-saving half-centuries. India finished their innings at 255/9 in their 50 overs with Vastrakar (56*) and Gayakwad (3*). Inoka Ranaweera (2/22), Chamari Athapaththu (2/45) and Rashmi Silva (2/53) were the best bowlers for Sri Lanka. Rashmi Silva, Oshadi Ranasinghe, Kavisha Dilhari took a wicket each. Chasing 256 runs, SL lost opener Vishmi Gunaratne for 3 at team`s score of seven.</p>

<p>Chamari Athapaththu and Hasini Perera put on a 59-run stand, which ended with Athapaththu falling for 44 to captain Kaur. Perara and Hasini Perera stitched a 36-run stand, ending with Perara getting out for 12 to Gayakwad. Perara soon followed her back to pavillion for 39 after being bowled by Gayakwad. Harshitha Samarawickrama and Nilakshi de Silva stitched a 36-run stand, ending with the former falling for 22 to Harleen Deol`s spin. Then India strengthened their hold in the game with three quick wickets. After that, Nilakshi de Silva and Rashmi Silva put on 28-run stands. The partnership ended with Rashmi`s stumps being dislodged for 18 by medium-pacer Meghna Singh.</p>

<p>Nilakshi and the final batter Inoka Ranaweera could continue their team`s resistance for just 33 runs. Sri Lanka was bundled out for 216 runs in 47.3 overs after Ranaweera was bowled by Deepti Sharma for just 10. Gayakwad was the leading bowler for India with 3/36. Meghna Singh and Pooja Vastrakar took 2/32 and 2/33 respectively. Deepti, Harmanpreet and Harleen took a wicket each.</p>

<p><strong>Brief Scores: India</strong> 255/9 in 50 overs (Harmanpreet Kaur 75, Pooja Vastrakar 56*, Inoka Ranaweera 2/22) defeated <strong>Sri Lanka</strong> 216 in 47.3 overs (Nilakshi de Silva 48, Nilakshi de Silva 44, Rajeshwari Gayakwad 3/36).&nbsp;</p>


Top knocks from captain Harmanpreet Kaur and Pooja Vastrakar and an amazing bowling spell from Rajeshwari Gayakwad helped India complete a clean sweep over Sri Lanka with a 39-run win here at Pallekele on Thursday.

Top knocks from captain Harmanpreet Kaur and Pooja Vastrakar and an amazing bowling spell from Rajeshwari Gayakwad helped India complete a clean sweep over Sri Lanka with a 39-run win here at Pallekele on Thursday. Captain Harmanpreet Kaur (75), Pooja Vastrakar (56*) and Shafali Verma (49) lead the Indian batting from the front, taking the visitors to 255/9 in their 50 overs. Spinner Inoka Ranaweera was the pick of the bowlers with 2/22. Captain Chamari Athapaththu and Rashmi Silva also took two wickets each. Sri Lanka was bundled out for just 216. Captain Chamari Athapaththu (44), Hasini Perera (39) and Hasini Perera (48) played some solid knocks, though not enough for their team`s cause. Gayakwad lead the Indian bowling attack from the front with 3/36. Put to bat first by SL, India lost Smriti Mandhana for just six when team`s score was just 30. Then opener Shafali Verma and wicketkeeper-batter Yastika Bhatia put on a 59-run stand, which ended with Bhatia being dismissed for 30 by Ranaweera`s spin. Harleen Deol, Deepti Sharma and Richa Ghosh fell for cheap, reducing India to 6/124. Then captain Kaur and Vastrakar stitched a 97-run stand. The duo brought up their match-saving half-centuries. India finished their innings at 255/9 in their 50 overs with Vastrakar (56*) and Gayakwad (3*). Inoka Ranaweera (2/22), Chamari Athapaththu (2/45) and Rashmi Silva (2/53) were the best bowlers for Sri Lanka. Rashmi Silva, Oshadi Ranasinghe, Kavisha Dilhari took a wicket each. Chasing 256 runs, SL lost opener Vishmi Gunaratne for 3 at team`s score of seven. Chamari Athapaththu and Hasini Perera put on a 59-run stand, which ended with Athapaththu falling for 44 to captain Kaur. Perara and Hasini Perera stitched a 36-run stand, ending with Perara getting out for 12 to Gayakwad. Perara soon followed her back to pavillion for 39 after being bowled by Gayakwad. Harshitha Samarawickrama and Nilakshi de Silva stitched a 36-run stand, ending with the former falling for 22 to Harleen Deol`s spin. Then India strengthened their hold in the game with three quick wickets. After that, Nilakshi de Silva and Rashmi Silva put on 28-run stands. The partnership ended with Rashmi`s stumps being dislodged for 18 by medium-pacer Meghna Singh. Nilakshi and the final batter Inoka Ranaweera could continue their team`s resistance for just 33 runs. Sri Lanka was bundled out for 216 runs in 47.3 overs after Ranaweera was bowled by Deepti Sharma for just 10. Gayakwad was the leading bowler for India with 3/36. Meghna Singh and Pooja Vastrakar took 2/32 and 2/33 respectively. Deepti, Harmanpreet and Harleen took a wicket each. Brief Scores: India 255/9 in 50 overs (Harmanpreet Kaur 75, Pooja Vastrakar 56*, Inoka Ranaweera 2/22) defeated Sri Lanka 216 in 47.3 overs (Nilakshi de Silva 48, Nilakshi de Silva 44, Rajeshwari Gayakwad 3/36).

SL-W vs IND-W, 3rd ODI: Harmanpreet, Pooja Vastrakar help visitors complete clean sweep over Islanders

<p>U.S. basketball star Brittney Griner pleaded guilty to a drugs charge in a Russian court on Thursday but denied she had intentionally broken the law. Griner was speaking at the second hearing of her trial on the narcotics charge that could see her sentenced to up to 10 years in prison, days after she urged U.S. President Joe Biden to secure her release.</p>

<p>"I`d like to plead guilty, your honour. But there was no intent. I didn`t want to break the law," Griner said, speaking quietly in English which was then translated into Russian for the court. "I`d like to give my testimony later. I need time to prepare," she added. The next court hearing was scheduled for July 14.</p>

<p>Griner`s lawyer Alexander Boykov told reporters they were hoping for the most lenient sentencing possible. The two-time Olympic gold medallist was detained in February at Moscow`s Sheremetyevo airport with vape cartridges containing hashish oil, which is illegal in Russia, and has been kept in custody since.<br />
In a handwritten note, she appealed to Biden directly earlier this week to step up U.S. efforts to bring her home.</p>

<p>"I realize you are dealing with so much, but please don`t forget about me and the other American detainees..." Griner wrote. "Please do all you can to bring us home." Biden spoke to Griner`s wife on Wednesday, telling her he was working to have her released "as soon as possible", the White House said.<br />
U.S. officials and many athletes have called for the release of Griner - or "BG" as she is known to basketball fans - who they say has been wrongfully detained.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/basketballer-brittney-griner-is-keeping-the-faith-reveals-us-charge-daffaires-elizabeth-rood-493597"><strong>Basketballer Brittney Griner is 'keeping the faith', reveals U.S. Charge d'Affaires Elizabeth Rood</strong></a></p>

<p>Her case has also prompted concerns that Moscow could use it as leverage to negotiate the release of a high-profile Russian citizen in U.S. custody. Russian authorities say there is no basis to consider Griner`s detention illegal and that the case against her is not political despite Moscow`s fraught relations with United States over the Russian military intervention in Ukraine.</p>

<p>Moscow`s Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov said on Thursday that it was difficult to exchange prisoners with the United States and suggested Washington stop talking about the fate of Griner.<br />
Griner, a centre for the Phoenix Mercury in the Women`s National Basketball Association, had played for UMMC Ekaterinburg in the Russian Women`s Basketball Premier League to boost her income during the WNBA off-season, like several other U.S. players. The Russian foreign ministry has said Griner could appeal her sentence or apply for clemency once a verdict has been delivered.</p>


U.S. basketball star Brittney Griner pleaded guilty to a drugs charge in a Russian court on Thursday but denied she had intentionally broken the law. Griner was speaking at the second hearing of her trial on the narcotics charge that could see her sentenced to up to 10 years in prison, days after she urged U.

U.S. basketball star Brittney Griner pleaded guilty to a drugs charge in a Russian court on Thursday but denied she had intentionally broken the law. Griner was speaking at the second hearing of her trial on the narcotics charge that could see her sentenced to up to 10 years in prison, days after she urged U.S. President Joe Biden to secure her release. "I`d like to plead guilty, your honour. But there was no intent. I didn`t want to break the law," Griner said, speaking quietly in English which was then translated into Russian for the court. "I`d like to give my testimony later. I need time to prepare," she added. The next court hearing was scheduled for July 14. Griner`s lawyer Alexander Boykov told reporters they were hoping for the most lenient sentencing possible. The two-time Olympic gold medallist was detained in February at Moscow`s Sheremetyevo airport with vape cartridges containing hashish oil, which is illegal in Russia, and has been kept in custody since. In a handwritten note, she appealed to Biden directly earlier this week to step up U.S. efforts to bring her home. "I realize you are dealing with so much, but please don`t forget about me and the other American detainees..." Griner wrote. "Please do all you can to bring us home." Biden spoke to Griner`s wife on Wednesday, telling her he was working to have her released "as soon as possible", the White House said. U.S. officials and many athletes have called for the release of Griner - or "BG" as she is known to basketball fans - who they say has been wrongfully detained. ALSO READ | Basketballer Brittney Griner is 'keeping the faith', reveals U.S. Charge d'Affaires Elizabeth Rood Her case has also prompted concerns that Moscow could use it as leverage to negotiate the release of a high-profile Russian citizen in U.S. custody. Russian authorities say there is no basis to consider Griner`s detention illegal and that the case against her is not political despite Moscow`s fraught relations with United States over the Russian military intervention in Ukraine. Moscow`s Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov said on Thursday that it was difficult to exchange prisoners with the United States and suggested Washington stop talking about the fate of Griner. Griner, a centre for the Phoenix Mercury in the Women`s National Basketball Association, had played for UMMC Ekaterinburg in the Russian Women`s Basketball Premier League to boost her income during the WNBA off-season, like several other U.S. players. The Russian foreign ministry has said Griner could appeal her sentence or apply for clemency once a verdict has been delivered.

U.S. basketballer Brittney Griner admits Russian drugs charge, denies intent

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