Eintracht Frankfurt beat Rangers 5-4 in a penalty shootout to lift the UEFA Europa League title after 120 minutes ended 1-1 between the two sides in the Sanchez Pizjuan Stadium on Wednesday. Rangers` Aaron Ramsey, who had been brought on specially for the shootout, missed the seventh penalty, and Frankfurt`s Rafael Santos Borre drilled the last penalty into the corner to decide the title. 
 
The game took place after a boiling hot day in Seville, which saw an estimated 120,000 fans from both sides and ugly incidents among the supporters, with chairs and bottles thrown. The first half was a relatively even affair as neither side wanted to commit any errors, although Eintracht had the best chance when Ansgar Knauff`s effort was pushed wide by Rangers keeper Allan McGregor, while at the other end, John Lundstram saw an effort comfortably tipped over the bar, reports Xinhua. 
 
Rangers took the lead in the 56th minute when Tuta slipped to collect a back header, allowing Joe Aribo to burst through and score with a low shot into the bottom corner. The jubilation of the Scottish fans lasted 13 minutes before Santos Borre drifted between two defenders to equalize with a near-post header, just moments after Daichi Kamada had fired over with just McGregor to beat.

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Eintracht went looking for a winning goal with Jens Petter Hauge firing just over following a pullback, before Filip Kostic`s cross to the far post failed to find a final touch with McGregor struggling to make up his ground. 
 
Extra-time saw the game become increasingly stretched as the heat and the tension began to take its toll on the players, although it was 15 minutes of `oooh` and `ahhs` rather than clear chances. The second period of extra-time began with Borna Barisic firing straight at Kevin Trapp, while Adjin Hrustic dragged a shot wide of McGregor`s far post, before Rangers brought Ramsey on for the impending penalties. 
 
The shootout nearly wasn`t needed as Kent saw Trapp make a great save when he looked certain to net the winner for Rangers, and Davis` follow-up was deflected wide at the last moment.

Eintracht Frankfurt beat Rangers 5-4 in a penalty shootout to lift the UEFA Europa League title after 120 minutes ended 1-1 between the two sides in the Sanchez Pizjuan Stadium on Wednesday.

Eintracht Frankfurt beat Rangers 5-4 in a penalty shootout to lift the UEFA Europa League title after 120 minutes ended 1-1 between the two sides in the Sanchez Pizjuan Stadium on Wednesday. Rangers` Aaron Ramsey, who had been brought on specially for the shootout, missed the seventh penalty, and Frankfurt`s Rafael Santos Borre drilled the last penalty into the corner to decide the title. The game took place after a boiling hot day in Seville, which saw an estimated 120,000 fans from both sides and ugly incidents among the supporters, with chairs and bottles thrown. The first half was a relatively even affair as neither side wanted to commit any errors, although Eintracht had the best chance when Ansgar Knauff`s effort was pushed wide by Rangers keeper Allan McGregor, while at the other end, John Lundstram saw an effort comfortably tipped over the bar, reports Xinhua. Rangers took the lead in the 56th minute when Tuta slipped to collect a back header, allowing Joe Aribo to burst through and score with a low shot into the bottom corner. The jubilation of the Scottish fans lasted 13 minutes before Santos Borre drifted between two defenders to equalize with a near-post header, just moments after Daichi Kamada had fired over with just McGregor to beat. ALSO READ | Jake Daniels becomes UK's 1st active male professional footballer to admit being gay, reveals 'inspiration' Eintracht went looking for a winning goal with Jens Petter Hauge firing just over following a pullback, before Filip Kostic`s cross to the far post failed to find a final touch with McGregor struggling to make up his ground. Extra-time saw the game become increasingly stretched as the heat and the tension began to take its toll on the players, although it was 15 minutes of `oooh` and `ahhs` rather than clear chances. The second period of extra-time began with Borna Barisic firing straight at Kevin Trapp, while Adjin Hrustic dragged a shot wide of McGregor`s far post, before Rangers brought Ramsey on for the impending penalties. The shootout nearly wasn`t needed as Kent saw Trapp make a great save when he looked certain to net the winner for Rangers, and Davis` follow-up was deflected wide at the last moment.

Eintracht Frankfurt lift UEFA Europa League title after thrilling shootout win against Rangers

It was raining sixes and runs for the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) after they opted to bat first versus the two-time winners Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in match 66 of the IPL 2022 edition, on Wednesday evening (May 18), at the Dr. DY Patil Stadium, Mumbai.

Riding on South Africa's Quinton de Kock's mammoth 140 not out and captain KL Rahul's well-compiled 51-ball unbeaten 68, LSG put KKR on the back foot on a batting-friendly track to take the team total to 210-0 in 20 overs. While De Kock was the aggressor, scoring 71 runs alone since the start of the 16th over, with 10 fours and sixes each -- at a whopping strike rate of 200 -- Rahul played his part and also struck at 133.33

Courtesy De Kock-Rahul's brilliance, the duo also entered the record books by registering the highest-ever opening partnership in IPL history. The pair went past Sunrisers Hyderabad's (SRH) former opening partners&nbsp;Jonny Bairstow-David Warner's 185-run stand versus Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in IPL 2019.

This also became the first time a team has batted the entire 20 overs in IPL without losing a single wicket. Here are some other records achieved by the LSG openers and De Kock, in particular, who slammed his second IPL hundred:

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Highest partnerships for any wicket in IPL 
229 Kohli - De Villiers RCB v GL Bengaluru 2016 
215*Kohli - De Villiers RCB v MI Mumbai WS 2015 
210*Rahul - De Kock LSG v KKR Mumbai DYP 2022

Highest individual scores in IPL 
175* C Gayle RCB v PWI Bengaluru 2013 
158* B McCullum KKR v RCB Bengaluru 2008 
140* Q de Kock LSG v KKR Mumbai DYP 2022 
133* AB de Villiers RCB v MI Mumbai WS 2015 
132* KL Rahul PK v RCB Dubai 2020

Meanwhile, Rahul also became the first-ever Indian batter to cross the 500-run mark for the fifth successive IPL season. He is now only behind Delhi Capitals' (DC) opener David Warner, who has done this in six consecutive seasons.

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At the mid-innings, LSG head coach Andy Flower told the broadcasters, "It's a helluva score, they batted beautifully. We've been seeing some special batting from both of them this season and again that was brilliant to watch. They are both beautiful batters to watch. At the end of the 18th over, we sent a message on saying, 'If you guys are too tired hitting the ball hard, you can retire and we'll send some of our big-hitters in." These boys, all of them, from 1 to 9 can hit the ball hard like that. One boundary is a big boundary, so Quinton hitting balls like that, who's not renowned for his big-hitting actually, that'd have given him a lot of satisfaction."

KKR need to chase down the total in 16.5 overs to bolster their NRR (and go past DC's NRR, i.e.&nbsp;+0.255) and also remain in the playoffs race. Meanwhile, LSG already have one foot in the playoffs and will like to win big to not only confirm a last-four berth but also help them to ensure a&nbsp;top-two finish eventually.

It was raining sixes and runs for the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) after they opted to bat first versus the two-time winners Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in match 66 of the IPL 2022 edition, on Wednesday evening (May 18), at the Dr.

It was raining sixes and runs for the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) after they opted to bat first versus the two-time winners Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in match 66 of the IPL 2022 edition, on Wednesday evening (May 18), at the Dr. DY Patil Stadium, Mumbai. Riding on South Africa's Quinton de Kock's mammoth 140 not out and captain KL Rahul's well-compiled 51-ball unbeaten 68, LSG put KKR on the back foot on a batting-friendly track to take the team total to 210-0 in 20 overs. While De Kock was the aggressor, scoring 71 runs alone since the start of the 16th over, with 10 fours and sixes each -- at a whopping strike rate of 200 -- Rahul played his part and also struck at 133.33 Courtesy De Kock-Rahul's brilliance, the duo also entered the record books by registering the highest-ever opening partnership in IPL history. The pair went past Sunrisers Hyderabad's (SRH) former opening partners Jonny Bairstow-David Warner's 185-run stand versus Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in IPL 2019. This also became the first time a team has batted the entire 20 overs in IPL without losing a single wicket. Here are some other records achieved by the LSG openers and De Kock, in particular, who slammed his second IPL hundred: ALSO READ | 'Being dropped isn't always bad' - Ishan Kishan defends MI management for initially dropping Tim David Highest partnerships for any wicket in IPL 229 Kohli - De Villiers RCB v GL Bengaluru 2016 215*Kohli - De Villiers RCB v MI Mumbai WS 2015 210*Rahul - De Kock LSG v KKR Mumbai DYP 2022 Highest individual scores in IPL 175* C Gayle RCB v PWI Bengaluru 2013 158* B McCullum KKR v RCB Bengaluru 2008 140* Q de Kock LSG v KKR Mumbai DYP 2022 133* AB de Villiers RCB v MI Mumbai WS 2015 132* KL Rahul PK v RCB Dubai 2020 Meanwhile, Rahul also became the first-ever Indian batter to cross the 500-run mark for the fifth successive IPL season. He is now only behind Delhi Capitals' (DC) opener David Warner, who has done this in six consecutive seasons. ALSO READ | IPL 2022: Jasprit Bumrah becomes first Indian pacer to achieve elusive feat in T20s At the mid-innings, LSG head coach Andy Flower told the broadcasters, "It's a helluva score, they batted beautifully. We've been seeing some special batting from both of them this season and again that was brilliant to watch. They are both beautiful batters to watch. At the end of the 18th over, we sent a message on saying, 'If you guys are too tired hitting the ball hard, you can retire and we'll send some of our big-hitters in." These boys, all of them, from 1 to 9 can hit the ball hard like that. One boundary is a big boundary, so Quinton hitting balls like that, who's not renowned for his big-hitting actually, that'd have given him a lot of satisfaction." KKR need to chase down the total in 16.5 overs to bolster their NRR (and go past DC's NRR, i.e. +0.255) and also remain in the playoffs race. Meanwhile, LSG already have one foot in the playoffs and will like to win big to not only confirm a last-four berth but also help them to ensure a top-two finish eventually.

LSG vs KKR: KL Rahul, centurion Quinton de Kock enter record books, put on highest opening stand in IPL

Quinton de Kock struck a sensational hundred and shared a record opening stand with skipper K L Rahul as Lucknow Super Giants pipped Kolkata Knight Riders by two runs in a last-ball IPL thriller to seal their play-off spot here on Wednesday. De Kock gave a batting masterclass enroute to an unbeaten 140 off 70 balls as he and Rahul (68 not out off 51) fired LSG to 210 for no loss, the highest opening stand in IPL history. 
It was a steep chase but KKR stayed in the game through Nitish Rana (42) and captain Shreyas Iyer (50) but it was too big a task for the lower-order. Their innings ended 208 for eight in 20 overs.

Just when it looked KKR were down and out, Sunil Narine (21 not out off) and Rinku Singh (40 off 15) started smashing the LSG bowlers around the ground to reignite hopes of the dug out. KKR needed 38 runs off the last two overs and they both brought the equation down to 21 off the final over.

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Rinku came up with couple of sixes and a four to make it five off the last three balls but he fell to a special one-handed catch from Evin Lewis to bring LSG back into the game. With three needed off the final ball, Marcus Stoinis landed a yorker to dismiss Umesh Yadav and help his team win a humdinger. The loss knocked KKR out of the competition, while LSG, who had lost their last two matches, moved back into the top-two with the win.

Earlier, Rahul and de Kock got the measure of the wicket in the powerplay, reaching 44 for no loss, before flaunting their wide range of strokes on way to the third highest stand in tournament history. The South African hammered 10 sixes and as many fours in his whirlwind innings, while Rahul collected four sixes and three fours in his 51-ball 68 not out.

De Kock, who was dropped by Abhijeet Tomar off Umesh Yadav in the third over, made KKR pay heavily by getting the highest score of the season. His memorable innings was also third highest individual score in tournament history. The South African was in his elements smashing the spinners and pacers with equal disdain.

He used the pull shot against the faster bowlers and was at his innovative best against the seasoned spin duo of Sunil Narine and off coloured Varun Chakaravarthy. Out of the sixes he hit, de Kock's reverse sweep off Narine stood out. Anything short from the pacers, de Kock was happy to put it away over deep square leg region.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/lsg-vs-kkr-kl-rahul-centurion-quinton-de-kock-enter-record-books-put-on-highest-opening-stand-in-ipl-480204">ALSO READ |&nbsp;LSG vs KKR: KL Rahul, centurion Quinton de Kock enter record books, put on highest opening stand in IPL</a>

De Kock cruised to his hundred in the 18th over with a cut shot off Russell and the innings meant a lot to him, something that was visibly by his down on knees celebration. The southpaw was in no mood to stop even after reaching three figures. Tim Southee was poor in the death overs as he fed balls after balls in the slot for de Kock to deposit it into the stands.

His 19th over yielded as many as 27 runs with de Kock finding the boundary at will. Rahul watched de Kock's breathtaking knock from the best seat in the house. The skipper did not have much to do in the slog overs but he too played some sublime strokes on way to his third half century of the season. Rahul also completed 500 runs in the tournament for the fifth season in a row.&nbsp;

KKR bowlers leaked 88 runs in the last five overs with Southee and Russell proving to be the most expensive bowlers.

Quinton de Kock struck a sensational hundred and shared a record opening stand with skipper K L Rahul as Lucknow Super Giants pipped Kolkata Knight Riders by two runs in a last-ball IPL thriller to seal their play-off spot here on Wednesday.

Quinton de Kock struck a sensational hundred and shared a record opening stand with skipper K L Rahul as Lucknow Super Giants pipped Kolkata Knight Riders by two runs in a last-ball IPL thriller to seal their play-off spot here on Wednesday. De Kock gave a batting masterclass enroute to an unbeaten 140 off 70 balls as he and Rahul (68 not out off 51) fired LSG to 210 for no loss, the highest opening stand in IPL history. It was a steep chase but KKR stayed in the game through Nitish Rana (42) and captain Shreyas Iyer (50) but it was too big a task for the lower-order. Their innings ended 208 for eight in 20 overs. Just when it looked KKR were down and out, Sunil Narine (21 not out off) and Rinku Singh (40 off 15) started smashing the LSG bowlers around the ground to reignite hopes of the dug out. KKR needed 38 runs off the last two overs and they both brought the equation down to 21 off the final over. ALSO READ | IPL 2022 updated points table: Lucknow Super Giants move to 2nd spot with win over Kolkata Knight Riders Rinku came up with couple of sixes and a four to make it five off the last three balls but he fell to a special one-handed catch from Evin Lewis to bring LSG back into the game. With three needed off the final ball, Marcus Stoinis landed a yorker to dismiss Umesh Yadav and help his team win a humdinger. The loss knocked KKR out of the competition, while LSG, who had lost their last two matches, moved back into the top-two with the win. Earlier, Rahul and de Kock got the measure of the wicket in the powerplay, reaching 44 for no loss, before flaunting their wide range of strokes on way to the third highest stand in tournament history. The South African hammered 10 sixes and as many fours in his whirlwind innings, while Rahul collected four sixes and three fours in his 51-ball 68 not out. De Kock, who was dropped by Abhijeet Tomar off Umesh Yadav in the third over, made KKR pay heavily by getting the highest score of the season. His memorable innings was also third highest individual score in tournament history. The South African was in his elements smashing the spinners and pacers with equal disdain. He used the pull shot against the faster bowlers and was at his innovative best against the seasoned spin duo of Sunil Narine and off coloured Varun Chakaravarthy. Out of the sixes he hit, de Kock's reverse sweep off Narine stood out. Anything short from the pacers, de Kock was happy to put it away over deep square leg region. ALSO READ | LSG vs KKR: KL Rahul, centurion Quinton de Kock enter record books, put on highest opening stand in IPL De Kock cruised to his hundred in the 18th over with a cut shot off Russell and the innings meant a lot to him, something that was visibly by his down on knees celebration. The southpaw was in no mood to stop even after reaching three figures. Tim Southee was poor in the death overs as he fed balls after balls in the slot for de Kock to deposit it into the stands. His 19th over yielded as many as 27 runs with de Kock finding the boundary at will. Rahul watched de Kock's breathtaking knock from the best seat in the house. The skipper did not have much to do in the slog overs but he too played some sublime strokes on way to his third half century of the season. Rahul also completed 500 runs in the tournament for the fifth season in a row. KKR bowlers leaked 88 runs in the last five overs with Southee and Russell proving to be the most expensive bowlers.

IPL 2022: Quinton de Kock's 140*, Mohsin Khan's 3-fer take LSG to playoffs as KKR eliminated

Match 66 of the IPL 2022 edition saw the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) face the two-time winners Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) as the former had a playoffs spot up for grabs whereas Shreyas Iyer &amp; Co. had to win to remain alive in the top-four race.&nbsp;In a high-scoring affair, at the Dr. DY Patil Stadium, Mumbai on Wednesday evening (May 18), LSG beat KKR by two runs to progress to the playoffs whereas last edition's runners-up now stand eliminated, joining Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Mumbai Indians (MI).

Batting first, KL Rahul's 68&nbsp;and Quinton de Kock's 140 not out went bonkers -- especially towards the end -- as LSG posted 210 for no loss in 20 overs. In reply, KKR were 9 for 2 but valuable knocks from Nitish Rana, Iyer, Rinku Singh, Sam Billings and Sunil Narine led to the franchise's top-class fight right till the end before they eventually fell short by two runs, managing 208 for 8.

Here's the IPL 2022 updated points table after the LSG-KKR clash:

<img alt="Updated IPL 2022 points table" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f5e3afe9-716a-4916-ac4b-ddf3e1879b2b" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/PT%20kkr%20-%20lsg%20contest.png" />

LSG now take the second spot and have a strong chance to finish in the top-two. Their closest contender, who can finish at the second position, is currently third-ranked Rajasthan Royals (RR). The 2008 winners have one game left.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/lsg-vs-kkr-kl-rahul-centurion-quinton-de-kock-enter-record-books-put-on-highest-opening-stand-in-ipl-480204">LSG vs KKR: KL Rahul, centurion Quinton de Kock enter record books, put on highest opening stand in IPL</a>

At the post-match presentation, the now-eliminated KKR team's skipper Iyer told, "I am not feeling sad at all. That was one of the best games of cricket I have played. The way we should our character and attitude was simply outstanding. I love the way Rinku got us till the end but unfortunately couldn't time it when two balls were remaining, he was really sad. I was hoping he could finish the game for us and could have been the hero, but still played a fantastic knock and I am really happy for him. When we came in, I never thought it would play this way because it was dry and the grass wasn't that wet. I thought there would be little help for the spinners but once they started going.. LSG took on the bowlers and got a par total. It was a do or die situation for us, even after losing two wickets in the powerplay our mindset was to go for the chase and take it close as possible and put them under pressure. It was a volatile season for us, we started great but lost five games in a row and I personally feel we did a lot of chopping and changing, we had to do that because of the niggles and form, but we also got to know the players such as Rinku."

Match 66 of the IPL 2022 edition saw the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) face the two-time winners Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) as the former had a playoffs spot up for grabs whereas Shreyas Iyer & Co.

Match 66 of the IPL 2022 edition saw the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) face the two-time winners Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) as the former had a playoffs spot up for grabs whereas Shreyas Iyer & Co. had to win to remain alive in the top-four race. In a high-scoring affair, at the Dr. DY Patil Stadium, Mumbai on Wednesday evening (May 18), LSG beat KKR by two runs to progress to the playoffs whereas last edition's runners-up now stand eliminated, joining Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Mumbai Indians (MI). Batting first, KL Rahul's 68 and Quinton de Kock's 140 not out went bonkers -- especially towards the end -- as LSG posted 210 for no loss in 20 overs. In reply, KKR were 9 for 2 but valuable knocks from Nitish Rana, Iyer, Rinku Singh, Sam Billings and Sunil Narine led to the franchise's top-class fight right till the end before they eventually fell short by two runs, managing 208 for 8. Here's the IPL 2022 updated points table after the LSG-KKR clash: LSG now take the second spot and have a strong chance to finish in the top-two. Their closest contender, who can finish at the second position, is currently third-ranked Rajasthan Royals (RR). The 2008 winners have one game left. ALSO READ | LSG vs KKR: KL Rahul, centurion Quinton de Kock enter record books, put on highest opening stand in IPL At the post-match presentation, the now-eliminated KKR team's skipper Iyer told, "I am not feeling sad at all. That was one of the best games of cricket I have played. The way we should our character and attitude was simply outstanding. I love the way Rinku got us till the end but unfortunately couldn't time it when two balls were remaining, he was really sad. I was hoping he could finish the game for us and could have been the hero, but still played a fantastic knock and I am really happy for him. When we came in, I never thought it would play this way because it was dry and the grass wasn't that wet. I thought there would be little help for the spinners but once they started going.. LSG took on the bowlers and got a par total. It was a do or die situation for us, even after losing two wickets in the powerplay our mindset was to go for the chase and take it close as possible and put them under pressure. It was a volatile season for us, we started great but lost five games in a row and I personally feel we did a lot of chopping and changing, we had to do that because of the niggles and form, but we also got to know the players such as Rinku."

IPL 2022 updated points table: Lucknow Super Giants move to 2nd spot with win over Kolkata Knight Riders

MS Dhoni-led India created history when they won the 2011 ODI World Cup as they became the first-ever host country to return with the elusive trophy and also end the country's 28-year-long title drought in the 50-over format.

En route to the title, Dhoni &amp; Co. defeated the likes of Australia, West Indies, Pakistan, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka in the summit clash. India's only defeat came versus South Africa whereas they played a humdinger of a clash versus England in the league stage. Playing their second game of the tournament, at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru, India faced the Andrew Strauss-led Poms in a high-scoring affair.

Batting first, India rode on Sachin Tendulkar's 120 and fifties from Gautam Gambhir-Yuvraj Singh to post 338 all-out in 49.5 overs. In reply, Strauss' 158 and Ian Bell's 69 ensured England were cruising at 281-2 before a lower-order collapse saw them end at 338/8 as the match ended in a tie.

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Recently, former English spinner Graeme Swann recalled the epic contest and shared an interesting story, where Indian captain Dhoni wasn't pleased with his fielders.

"We were cruising, we were all laughing and joking in the changing room. 'Hah, they are 20 runs short', 'Hah, look at how good we are'. Then all of a sudden, Mishra (Piyush Chawla) got a couple of wickets (of Jonathan Trott and Tim Bresnan). We got really bogged down then. And suddenly, we were never winning the game. And then, as it always happens in one-day cricket, it was down to bowlers to bail out the batsmen and try to win. So, we walked in. I hit Mishra (Chawla) for a six! I picked a googly and hit him for a six and it kind of got us back to the game.

“We still needed 14 runs to win. And Aj (Ajmal Shahzad) came in, and he's like, 'what's happening big lad?' I went, 'mate, let's just do our best'. And in his first ball, he smacked it straight over my head for a six. He's like, 'Oh my god, I can't believe that!'” Swann (chuckled) recalled in a video for&nbsp;cricket.com.

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“It was down to 4 needed off 2 balls. We scampered for two when it should've never been two. It wasn't a very happy MS Dhoni, I can assure you that. On the last ball, it was too full to get underneath and the extra cover dived and stopped it. We only got one,”&nbsp;Swann concluded.

Interestingly, Dhoni's first World Cup as captain -- both in T20I and ODI format -- saw him lead the side to the coveted title. In both the tournaments, i.e. the 2007 T20 WC&nbsp;and 2011's mega-event,&nbsp;one game each for India ended in a tie (versus Pakistan and England, respectively).

MS Dhoni-led India created history when they won the 2011 ODI World Cup as they became the first-ever host country to return with the elusive trophy and also end the country's 28-year-long title drought in the 50-over format.

MS Dhoni-led India created history when they won the 2011 ODI World Cup as they became the first-ever host country to return with the elusive trophy and also end the country's 28-year-long title drought in the 50-over format. En route to the title, Dhoni & Co. defeated the likes of Australia, West Indies, Pakistan, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka in the summit clash. India's only defeat came versus South Africa whereas they played a humdinger of a clash versus England in the league stage. Playing their second game of the tournament, at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru, India faced the Andrew Strauss-led Poms in a high-scoring affair. Batting first, India rode on Sachin Tendulkar's 120 and fifties from Gautam Gambhir-Yuvraj Singh to post 338 all-out in 49.5 overs. In reply, Strauss' 158 and Ian Bell's 69 ensured England were cruising at 281-2 before a lower-order collapse saw them end at 338/8 as the match ended in a tie. ALSO READ | Arif Malik decided to invite Virat Kohli, not me: Kashmir Premier League's Director Rashid Latif Recently, former English spinner Graeme Swann recalled the epic contest and shared an interesting story, where Indian captain Dhoni wasn't pleased with his fielders. "We were cruising, we were all laughing and joking in the changing room. 'Hah, they are 20 runs short', 'Hah, look at how good we are'. Then all of a sudden, Mishra (Piyush Chawla) got a couple of wickets (of Jonathan Trott and Tim Bresnan). We got really bogged down then. And suddenly, we were never winning the game. And then, as it always happens in one-day cricket, it was down to bowlers to bail out the batsmen and try to win. So, we walked in. I hit Mishra (Chawla) for a six! I picked a googly and hit him for a six and it kind of got us back to the game. “We still needed 14 runs to win. And Aj (Ajmal Shahzad) came in, and he's like, 'what's happening big lad?' I went, 'mate, let's just do our best'. And in his first ball, he smacked it straight over my head for a six. He's like, 'Oh my god, I can't believe that!'” Swann (chuckled) recalled in a video for cricket.com. ALSO READ | NCA chief VVS Laxman likely to don head coach's hat for SA, Ireland series in Rahul Dravid's absence: Report “It was down to 4 needed off 2 balls. We scampered for two when it should've never been two. It wasn't a very happy MS Dhoni, I can assure you that. On the last ball, it was too full to get underneath and the extra cover dived and stopped it. We only got one,” Swann concluded. Interestingly, Dhoni's first World Cup as captain -- both in T20I and ODI format -- saw him lead the side to the coveted title. In both the tournaments, i.e. the 2007 T20 WC and 2011's mega-event, one game each for India ended in a tie (versus Pakistan and England, respectively).

'It wasn't a very happy MS Dhoni' - Graeme Swann recalls final moments from epic India-England CWC'11 tie

The Japan Football Association (JFA) has been informally approached about the possibility of replacing China as hosts of next year`s Asian Cup, Chairman Kozo Tashima told Nikkan Sports. The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) announced last Saturday that China had pulled out of hosting the 24-team continental championship, citing the COVID-19 situation in the country.

"We were sounded out," Tashima told the newspaper, without giving further details. "If Japan were able to host, there`s no question that it would be pretty exciting." The JFA was not immediately available for comment. Japan has the stadium infrastructure in place to stage the tournament in June and July next year, having co-hosted the World Cup in 2002, rugby`s global showpiece in 2019 and the Olympic soccer tournament last year.

Other potential hosts such as Qatar, Saudi Arabia and Australia would need the tournament moved back to late 2023 or early 2024. Qatar, which will host the World Cup later this year, and Saudi Arabia would be inhospitable in the middle of the year because of the summer heat, while Australia is co-hosting the women`s World Cup in July and August 2023.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/china-withdrawal-could-see-2023-asian-cup-heading-west-479611">China withdrawal could see 2023 Asian Cup heading west</a>

Last year`s Tokyo Olympics were held in a bio-secure bubble with limited local crowds because of fears of athletes and officials spreading the novel coronavirus. Japan said on Tuesday, however, that it would start conducting "test tourism" in the form of limited package tours in May as a way of gathering information prior to a full re-opening of the country to tourism.

Tourists have not been permitted to enter Japan since the country adopted strict border controls in 2020 at the start of the pandemic. Japan has won the Asian Cup a record four times and previously hosted the tournament in 1992, when only eight teams took part. The AFC, which has not responded to requests for information about the process of replacing the host country, is meeting for its 32nd Congress in Kuala Lumpur later on Wednesday.

The Japan Football Association (JFA) has been informally approached about the possibility of replacing China as hosts of next year`s Asian Cup, Chairman Kozo Tashima told Nikkan Sports.

The Japan Football Association (JFA) has been informally approached about the possibility of replacing China as hosts of next year`s Asian Cup, Chairman Kozo Tashima told Nikkan Sports. The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) announced last Saturday that China had pulled out of hosting the 24-team continental championship, citing the COVID-19 situation in the country. "We were sounded out," Tashima told the newspaper, without giving further details. "If Japan were able to host, there`s no question that it would be pretty exciting." The JFA was not immediately available for comment. Japan has the stadium infrastructure in place to stage the tournament in June and July next year, having co-hosted the World Cup in 2002, rugby`s global showpiece in 2019 and the Olympic soccer tournament last year. Other potential hosts such as Qatar, Saudi Arabia and Australia would need the tournament moved back to late 2023 or early 2024. Qatar, which will host the World Cup later this year, and Saudi Arabia would be inhospitable in the middle of the year because of the summer heat, while Australia is co-hosting the women`s World Cup in July and August 2023. ALSO READ | China withdrawal could see 2023 Asian Cup heading west Last year`s Tokyo Olympics were held in a bio-secure bubble with limited local crowds because of fears of athletes and officials spreading the novel coronavirus. Japan said on Tuesday, however, that it would start conducting "test tourism" in the form of limited package tours in May as a way of gathering information prior to a full re-opening of the country to tourism. Tourists have not been permitted to enter Japan since the country adopted strict border controls in 2020 at the start of the pandemic. Japan has won the Asian Cup a record four times and previously hosted the tournament in 1992, when only eight teams took part. The AFC, which has not responded to requests for information about the process of replacing the host country, is meeting for its 32nd Congress in Kuala Lumpur later on Wednesday.

Japan 'sounded out' about hosting 2023 Asian Cup after China's withdrawal

The International Basketball Federation (FIBA) on Wednesday excluded Russia and Belarus from participating and hosting international tournaments until further notice following the Russian invasion of Ukraine.

The men`s teams of Russia and Belarus have been withdrawn from European qualifiers for the World Cup next year and are not being replaced. Russia has called the invasion a "a special military operation" while Belarus has served as a key staging area.

Russia`s women`s team, who were due to play in the World Cup in Australia this year, have been withdrawn and replaced by Puerto Rico, while the Under-17 women`s team of Russia have been replaced with Serbia for the World Cup in Hungary.

Neither country is allowed to participate in 3X3 competitions this year, including the World Cup. 
Several sports federations have banned Russian and Belarusian athletes and officials, and moved or cancelled events in the countries.

The International Basketball Federation (FIBA) on Wednesday excluded Russia and Belarus from participating and hosting international tournaments until further notice following the Russian invasion of Ukraine.

The International Basketball Federation (FIBA) on Wednesday excluded Russia and Belarus from participating and hosting international tournaments until further notice following the Russian invasion of Ukraine. The men`s teams of Russia and Belarus have been withdrawn from European qualifiers for the World Cup next year and are not being replaced. Russia has called the invasion a "a special military operation" while Belarus has served as a key staging area. Russia`s women`s team, who were due to play in the World Cup in Australia this year, have been withdrawn and replaced by Puerto Rico, while the Under-17 women`s team of Russia have been replaced with Serbia for the World Cup in Hungary. Neither country is allowed to participate in 3X3 competitions this year, including the World Cup. Several sports federations have banned Russian and Belarusian athletes and officials, and moved or cancelled events in the countries.

International Basketball Federation bans Russia and Belarus from international competitions

Shoaib Akhtar remains a huge name in world cricket. Akhtar ended his illustrious international career with a total of 444 scalps. He was known for his ferocious pace, bounce and ability to rattle the batter's mind even before bowling to him.&nbsp;

During the 2003 ODI World Cup, the former Pakistan speedster Akhtar -- also known as the Rawalpindi Express -- had made heads turn by bowling the fastest delivery in cricketing history; bowling at a mammoth&nbsp;161.3 kph (100.23 mph) in a group stage match versus England at Cape Town. Recently, the legendary pacer revealed how he clocked the 160kph mark at the international level.

“When you touch 155 kph as a bowler, remember that you have another 5 kph inside you. However, adding that extra pace to your bowling requires specific training. Before I broke the 100 miles record, I was bowling at speeds of 157-158 kph but I was not able to reach 160. I was a bit baffled over the same, wondering why it was not happening,” Akhtar said while talking to Sportskeeda.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/arif-malik-decided-to-invite-virat-kohli-not-me-kashmir-premier-leagues-director-rashid-latif-480177">Arif Malik decided to invite Virat Kohli, not me: Kashmir Premier League's Director Rashid Latif</a>

“I began by running with tires but soon realised that they are light. Next, I started pulling small vehicles with my shoulders. There is less public in Islamabad, so I used to pull vehicles in the night. I used to match its speed with the pace of my run-up. I realised that the vehicle is also small, so I started pulling a truck. I used to pull a truck for around 8 km," Akhtar added.

Akhtar remains an inspiration for many bidding pacers across the globe. Many have imitated his action as well in the past. However, it would take them a whole lot of effort to come anywhere near Akhtar's illustrious feat, i.e. of bowling the fastest delivery in international cricket.

Shoaib Akhtar remains a huge name in world cricket. Akhtar ended his illustrious international career with a total of 444 scalps. He was known for his ferocious pace, bounce and ability to rattle the batter's mind even before bowling to him.

Shoaib Akhtar remains a huge name in world cricket. Akhtar ended his illustrious international career with a total of 444 scalps. He was known for his ferocious pace, bounce and ability to rattle the batter's mind even before bowling to him. During the 2003 ODI World Cup, the former Pakistan speedster Akhtar -- also known as the Rawalpindi Express -- had made heads turn by bowling the fastest delivery in cricketing history; bowling at a mammoth 161.3 kph (100.23 mph) in a group stage match versus England at Cape Town. Recently, the legendary pacer revealed how he clocked the 160kph mark at the international level. “When you touch 155 kph as a bowler, remember that you have another 5 kph inside you. However, adding that extra pace to your bowling requires specific training. Before I broke the 100 miles record, I was bowling at speeds of 157-158 kph but I was not able to reach 160. I was a bit baffled over the same, wondering why it was not happening,” Akhtar said while talking to Sportskeeda. ALSO READ | Arif Malik decided to invite Virat Kohli, not me: Kashmir Premier League's Director Rashid Latif “I began by running with tires but soon realised that they are light. Next, I started pulling small vehicles with my shoulders. There is less public in Islamabad, so I used to pull vehicles in the night. I used to match its speed with the pace of my run-up. I realised that the vehicle is also small, so I started pulling a truck. I used to pull a truck for around 8 km," Akhtar added. Akhtar remains an inspiration for many bidding pacers across the globe. Many have imitated his action as well in the past. However, it would take them a whole lot of effort to come anywhere near Akhtar's illustrious feat, i.e. of bowling the fastest delivery in international cricket.

Used to pull truck for around 8 km: Shoaib Akhtar makes glaring remark, reveals how he broke 160kph barrier

Recently, the Kashmir Premier League's (KPL) President Arif Malik made heads turn when he announced that he has decided to send a formal invite to India's star batter Virat Kohli to participate in the second edition of the league, in Pakistan Occupied Kashmir (PoK), or at least grace his presence as a guest.

Thus, this led to a widespread reaction from all quarters. Recently, KPL's Director of Cricket Operations and Pakistan's former captain Rashid Latif has clarified that the league's President has decided not only to&nbsp;call Kohli but also many other marquee players from different countries. However, the decision to invite Kohli was solely Malik's, as per Latif's claims.

"My boss Arif Malik gave a statement on inviting Virat Kohli for the Kashmir Premier League. Whether to come or not, it's his call. But he has taken the initiative after some thinking. He will invite players from other countries as well as India, but these are not my quotes. Please don't quote that I said so," Latif said.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kashmir-premier-league-to-formally-invite-indian-star-virat-kohli-to-feature-in-2nd-edition-report-479784">Kashmir Premier League to formally invite Indian star Virat Kohli to feature in 2nd edition: Report</a>

Earlier, Malik had said in a video shared on social media platform Twitter, "(Md) Rizwan gave a very positive message that cricket should be beyond anything else. So we are sending a letter to Virat Kohli, inviting him to play in the league or at least come and watch one match."

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Arif Malik President KPL announces inclusion of Indian cricketer Virat Kohli in KPL،he said We are sending a formal invitations to Virat Kohli, 
Its up to on Virat Kohli whether to beome part of the league as a player or as a special guest<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/virat?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#virat</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Cricket?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Cricket</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imVkohli</a> <a href="https://t.co/LkllhHNduG">pic.twitter.com/LkllhHNduG</a>
— Rozina Ali (@roseeyna_ali) <a href="https://twitter.com/roseeyna_ali/status/1526451342033981440?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 17, 2022</a></blockquote>
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It remains to be seen if Kohli associates himself with the controversial league in any form. The second edition of the KPL will commence on August 1 and conclude on August 14. During that time, India is also scheduled to tour West Indies for three ODIs and five T20Is, from July 22-August 07.&nbsp;

Recently, the Kashmir Premier League's (KPL) President Arif Malik made heads turn when he announced that he has decided to send a formal invite to India's star batter Virat Kohli to participate in the second edition of the league, in Pakistan Occupied Kashmir (PoK), or at least grace his presence as a guest.

Recently, the Kashmir Premier League's (KPL) President Arif Malik made heads turn when he announced that he has decided to send a formal invite to India's star batter Virat Kohli to participate in the second edition of the league, in Pakistan Occupied Kashmir (PoK), or at least grace his presence as a guest. Thus, this led to a widespread reaction from all quarters. Recently, KPL's Director of Cricket Operations and Pakistan's former captain Rashid Latif has clarified that the league's President has decided not only to call Kohli but also many other marquee players from different countries. However, the decision to invite Kohli was solely Malik's, as per Latif's claims. "My boss Arif Malik gave a statement on inviting Virat Kohli for the Kashmir Premier League. Whether to come or not, it's his call. But he has taken the initiative after some thinking. He will invite players from other countries as well as India, but these are not my quotes. Please don't quote that I said so," Latif said. ALSO READ | Kashmir Premier League to formally invite Indian star Virat Kohli to feature in 2nd edition: Report Earlier, Malik had said in a video shared on social media platform Twitter, "(Md) Rizwan gave a very positive message that cricket should be beyond anything else. So we are sending a letter to Virat Kohli, inviting him to play in the league or at least come and watch one match." Arif Malik President KPL announces inclusion of Indian cricketer Virat Kohli in KPL،he said We are sending a formal invitations to Virat Kohli, Its up to on Virat Kohli whether to beome part of the league as a player or as a special guest#virat #Cricket @imVkohli pic.twitter.com/LkllhHNduG — Rozina Ali (@roseeyna_ali) May 17, 2022 × It remains to be seen if Kohli associates himself with the controversial league in any form. The second edition of the KPL will commence on August 1 and conclude on August 14. During that time, India is also scheduled to tour West Indies for three ODIs and five T20Is, from July 22-August 07.

Arif Malik decided to invite Virat Kohli, not me: Kashmir Premier League's Director Rashid Latif

Debutant Nikhat Zareen (52kg) was the lone Indian to enter the final, while two others signed off with bronze medals in the Women's World Boxing Championships in Istanbul on Wednesday. Nikhat made short work of Brazil's Caroline De Almeida to notch up a dominant 5-0 win.

However, Manisha Moun (57kg) and debutant Parveen Hooda (63kg) settled for bronze medals. While Manisha lost to Tokyo Olympics bronze medallist Irma Testa of Italy by 0-5 unanimous decision, Parveen went down by a 1-4 split verdict to European championship bronze medallist Amy Broadhurst. Zareen, who is a former junior world champion, stayed calm and completely dominated her rival for a 5-0 win by unanimous decision in the last-four bout of the 52kg competition.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/thailand-open-2022-pv-sindhu-kidambi-srikanth-get-off-to-winning-starts-saina-nehwal-crashes-out-480165">Thailand Open 2022: PV Sindhu, Kidambi Srikanth get off to winning starts, Saina Nehwal crashes out</a>

The 2019 Asian Championships bronze medallist Manisha, competing in her second world championship, tried hard to outdo her technically superior opponent with her power punches but Testa defended superbly. 
Six-time champion MC Mary Kom, Sarita Devi, Jenny RL and Lekha C are the only Indian women boxers who have won the world title and now Hyderabad-based Zareen has the opportunity to join the elite list. 
India's best performance in the event came in 2006 when the country snared eight medals, including four gold, one silver and three bronze. In the last edition, four Indian boxers returned home with medals. Manju Rani clinched the silver, while Mary Kom bagged an unparalleled eighth world medal in the form of a bronze.&nbsp;

Debutant Nikhat Zareen (52kg) was the lone Indian to enter the final, while two others signed off with bronze medals in the Women's World Boxing Championships in Istanbul on Wednesday.

Debutant Nikhat Zareen (52kg) was the lone Indian to enter the final, while two others signed off with bronze medals in the Women's World Boxing Championships in Istanbul on Wednesday. Nikhat made short work of Brazil's Caroline De Almeida to notch up a dominant 5-0 win. However, Manisha Moun (57kg) and debutant Parveen Hooda (63kg) settled for bronze medals. While Manisha lost to Tokyo Olympics bronze medallist Irma Testa of Italy by 0-5 unanimous decision, Parveen went down by a 1-4 split verdict to European championship bronze medallist Amy Broadhurst. Zareen, who is a former junior world champion, stayed calm and completely dominated her rival for a 5-0 win by unanimous decision in the last-four bout of the 52kg competition. ALSO READ | Thailand Open 2022: PV Sindhu, Kidambi Srikanth get off to winning starts, Saina Nehwal crashes out The 2019 Asian Championships bronze medallist Manisha, competing in her second world championship, tried hard to outdo her technically superior opponent with her power punches but Testa defended superbly. Six-time champion MC Mary Kom, Sarita Devi, Jenny RL and Lekha C are the only Indian women boxers who have won the world title and now Hyderabad-based Zareen has the opportunity to join the elite list. India's best performance in the event came in 2006 when the country snared eight medals, including four gold, one silver and three bronze. In the last edition, four Indian boxers returned home with medals. Manju Rani clinched the silver, while Mary Kom bagged an unparalleled eighth world medal in the form of a bronze.

Women's World C'ships: Debutant Nikhat Zareen enters final, 2 others sign off with bronze

Rohit Sharma-led Mumbai Indians (MI) franchise have had a torrid run in IPL 2022 edition. The five-time winners were the first team to bow out of the playoffs race after losing eight games on the trot. Team selection, inconsistency among their top batters and some marquee players never rising to the occasion can be touted to be one of the main reasons for Mumbai's downfall in IPL 15.

However, many believe MI missed a trick by not giving Tim David, the&nbsp;Singaporean-Australian cricketer, a long run throughout the season. After failures in his first two outings for the franchise, David was dropped from the playing XI and warmed the bench for over a month before finally making a comeback. Since then, he has had scores of&nbsp;44*, 13, 16* and an 18-ball 46 against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH), in match 65 on Tuesday evening (May 17). He&nbsp;almost took the side home in their three-run loss at the hands of SRH before his departure in the 18th over.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-stirred-up-the-aussies-a-lot-shane-watson-lavishes-huge-praise-on-ex-india-pacer-480094">'He stirred up the Aussies a lot' - Shane Watson lavishes huge praise on ex-India pacer</a>

Thus, MI have been criticised for dropping David initially. Post the SRH defeat, opener Ishan Kishan defended the team management's call and said, "IPL is a big stage and the decisions taken by the management are for the betterment of the team. Nothing personal in it. Unfortunately, he (David) was dropped from the team. But if you look at the other way, he prepared himself to play on the Indian wickets. So, being dropped isn't always bad as it gives the player an opportunity to analyse his game. The comeback he has made and the innings he has played have been mind-blowing. So, it was a good call (to drop David)."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kkr-vs-lsg-ipl-2022-prediction-today-who-will-win-kolkata-knight-riders-vs-lucknow-super-giants-match-480116">KKR vs LSG, IPL 2022 prediction today: Who will win Kolkata Knight Riders vs Lucknow Super Giants match?</a>

Given David was fetched by the MI franchise for a whopping INR 82.5 million in the mega auction earlier this year. Hence, it was expected of the Rohit-led franchise to give him a long rope in the playing XI. Nonetheless, he is now making a solid mark and looks certain to be retained by the franchise for a long time.

Rohit Sharma-led Mumbai Indians (MI) franchise have had a torrid run in IPL 2022 edition. The five-time winners were the first team to bow out of the playoffs race after losing eight games on the trot.

Rohit Sharma-led Mumbai Indians (MI) franchise have had a torrid run in IPL 2022 edition. The five-time winners were the first team to bow out of the playoffs race after losing eight games on the trot. Team selection, inconsistency among their top batters and some marquee players never rising to the occasion can be touted to be one of the main reasons for Mumbai's downfall in IPL 15. However, many believe MI missed a trick by not giving Tim David, the Singaporean-Australian cricketer, a long run throughout the season. After failures in his first two outings for the franchise, David was dropped from the playing XI and warmed the bench for over a month before finally making a comeback. Since then, he has had scores of 44*, 13, 16* and an 18-ball 46 against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH), in match 65 on Tuesday evening (May 17). He almost took the side home in their three-run loss at the hands of SRH before his departure in the 18th over. ALSO READ | 'He stirred up the Aussies a lot' - Shane Watson lavishes huge praise on ex-India pacer Thus, MI have been criticised for dropping David initially. Post the SRH defeat, opener Ishan Kishan defended the team management's call and said, "IPL is a big stage and the decisions taken by the management are for the betterment of the team. Nothing personal in it. Unfortunately, he (David) was dropped from the team. But if you look at the other way, he prepared himself to play on the Indian wickets. So, being dropped isn't always bad as it gives the player an opportunity to analyse his game. The comeback he has made and the innings he has played have been mind-blowing. So, it was a good call (to drop David)." ALSO READ | KKR vs LSG, IPL 2022 prediction today: Who will win Kolkata Knight Riders vs Lucknow Super Giants match? Given David was fetched by the MI franchise for a whopping INR 82.5 million in the mega auction earlier this year. Hence, it was expected of the Rohit-led franchise to give him a long rope in the playing XI. Nonetheless, he is now making a solid mark and looks certain to be retained by the franchise for a long time.

'Being dropped isn't always bad' - Ishan Kishan defends MI management for initially dropping Tim David

The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) on Wednesday announced that it has appointed Matthew Mott as England Men`s white-ball head coach. Mott, 48, has signed a four-year agreement and is expected to be in place for England`s three-match ODI series against The Netherlands in Amsterdam next month. The ECB`s selection panel of Chief Executive Officer Tom Harrison, Managing Director of England`s Men`s Cricket Rob Key, Strategic Adviser Andrew Strauss and Performance Director Mo Bobat unanimously agreed that he was the standout candidate for the role during the competitive interview process.

Mott has led the Australian Women`s Team since 2015 and during his seven years in charge has overseen one of the world`s best winning records across the international sport. Under his leadership, Australia Women have won consecutive ICC T20 World Cups, this year`s ICC Women`s 50-Over World Cup and are undefeated in four Ashes series. Mott has also helped Australia win 26 consecutive one-day internationals, a record in either the men`s or women`s game. Before taking up his post with Australia women in 2015, Mott worked as Head Coach of New South Wales - leading them to victory in the Champions League T20 tournament in 2009 - and then coached Glamorgan, reaching the final of the Yorkshire Bank 40 in 2013, before working as a consultant for Ireland during the 2015 ICC Men`s World Cup.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pace-duo-james-anderson-stuart-broad-return-as-england-announce-squad-for-first-two-tests-vs-nz-480140">Pace duo James Anderson, Stuart Broad return as England announce squad for first two Tests vs NZ</a>

England Men`s White-Ball Head Coach, Matthew Mott in a statement said: "I am delighted to accept the opportunity to take this white-ball role with England. Whilst I am Australian, I have deep connections, and several of my closest friends are in the UK, having spent considerable time in Scotland, Wales and England, both as a player and coach."When this role became available, I was attracted by the chance to work with such an established and successful team under the astute leadership of Eoin Morgan and now Rob Key, whom I have always admired as an excellent cricket mind." Mott opined, "The idea of the split roles and the chance to work alongside Brendon McCullum in his red-ball role is an opportunity that I am incredibly enthusiastic about and certainly provides the right balance for my family as we embark on this exciting journey."

"It was always going to take something special to leave the role that I have loved for the past seven years with the Australian Women`s team. However, I genuinely believe that the time is right to play a role in helping the England Men`s ODI and T20 group continue to evolve as one of the best teams in the world. I am fully aware that this team has been functioning well and part of my initial plan is to work with the playing group and support staff on how we can firstly maintain, then enhance, the success they have started to build over the past few years." He further added, "Since the excitement of accepting this role, I, like many people around the world, have been trying to come to terms with the tragic loss of my great mate Andrew Symonds. The support of his beautiful family and close friends in the coming days will be vitally important, so I respectfully request some time to process his passing and the immense loss before making any further comment on the role at this stage."&nbsp;

The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) on Wednesday announced that it has appointed Matthew Mott as England Men`s white-ball head coach. Mott, 48, has signed a four-year agreement and is expected to be in place for England`s three-match ODI series against The Netherlands in Amsterdam next month.

The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) on Wednesday announced that it has appointed Matthew Mott as England Men`s white-ball head coach. Mott, 48, has signed a four-year agreement and is expected to be in place for England`s three-match ODI series against The Netherlands in Amsterdam next month. The ECB`s selection panel of Chief Executive Officer Tom Harrison, Managing Director of England`s Men`s Cricket Rob Key, Strategic Adviser Andrew Strauss and Performance Director Mo Bobat unanimously agreed that he was the standout candidate for the role during the competitive interview process. Mott has led the Australian Women`s Team since 2015 and during his seven years in charge has overseen one of the world`s best winning records across the international sport. Under his leadership, Australia Women have won consecutive ICC T20 World Cups, this year`s ICC Women`s 50-Over World Cup and are undefeated in four Ashes series. Mott has also helped Australia win 26 consecutive one-day internationals, a record in either the men`s or women`s game. Before taking up his post with Australia women in 2015, Mott worked as Head Coach of New South Wales - leading them to victory in the Champions League T20 tournament in 2009 - and then coached Glamorgan, reaching the final of the Yorkshire Bank 40 in 2013, before working as a consultant for Ireland during the 2015 ICC Men`s World Cup. ALSO READ | Pace duo James Anderson, Stuart Broad return as England announce squad for first two Tests vs NZ England Men`s White-Ball Head Coach, Matthew Mott in a statement said: "I am delighted to accept the opportunity to take this white-ball role with England. Whilst I am Australian, I have deep connections, and several of my closest friends are in the UK, having spent considerable time in Scotland, Wales and England, both as a player and coach."When this role became available, I was attracted by the chance to work with such an established and successful team under the astute leadership of Eoin Morgan and now Rob Key, whom I have always admired as an excellent cricket mind." Mott opined, "The idea of the split roles and the chance to work alongside Brendon McCullum in his red-ball role is an opportunity that I am incredibly enthusiastic about and certainly provides the right balance for my family as we embark on this exciting journey." "It was always going to take something special to leave the role that I have loved for the past seven years with the Australian Women`s team. However, I genuinely believe that the time is right to play a role in helping the England Men`s ODI and T20 group continue to evolve as one of the best teams in the world. I am fully aware that this team has been functioning well and part of my initial plan is to work with the playing group and support staff on how we can firstly maintain, then enhance, the success they have started to build over the past few years." He further added, "Since the excitement of accepting this role, I, like many people around the world, have been trying to come to terms with the tragic loss of my great mate Andrew Symonds. The support of his beautiful family and close friends in the coming days will be vitally important, so I respectfully request some time to process his passing and the immense loss before making any further comment on the role at this stage."

ECB announces Matthew Mott as England men's white-ball head coach

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