On Thursday (May 12), the England Cricket Board (ECB) announced former New Zealand captain Brendon McCullum as the head coach of England's Test team. Earlier, they were reports of former South African opener Gary Kirsten getting the top job, however, McCullum pipped Kirsten to bag the post.

For the unversed, McCullum has coached the&nbsp;likes of Trinbago Knight Riders and&nbsp;Kolkata Knight Riders in the IPL, however, the England job will be his maiden full-fledged role as a national team coach. He has signed a four-year deal with the ECB and his tenure starts with England's home series versus New Zealand, i.e. the current World Test champions.

In his column for&nbsp;The Telegraph, the 2005-06 Ashes-winning England skipper Michael Vaughan reacted to McCullum's appointment. He&nbsp;wrote, "If English cricket has overlooked someone like Gary Kirsten for a second time, I do find it incredibly bizarre. I don't see how we have made that call twice. He is the perfect mentor, thinker, and cultural driver who has done it before and has the t-shirt. What England have gone for in Brendon is exciting and a big name, but it is a big risk as well."

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"I am all for attacking play and being aggressive (a brand of cricket McCullum mostly relies upon), but I don’t think this England Test team is in a position to play that way at the moment. They have to take small steps first and get used to playing long, hard periods of Test cricket. And then in time, if you get a group of players with a lot of confidence, they can play more flamboyantly," he added.

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It will be interesting to see how McCullum runs the England Test team, which is in a disarray after disastrous Ashes 2021-22 edition and a series defeat to hosts West Indies, in the Caribbean island. McCullum-Ben Stokes, the newly-appointed England Test captain, have a stern task ahead to revamp the national side in whites.
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On Thursday (May 12), the England Cricket Board (ECB) announced former New Zealand captain Brendon McCullum as the head coach of England's Test team. Earlier, they were reports of former South African opener Gary Kirsten getting the top job, however, McCullum pipped Kirsten to bag the post.

On Thursday (May 12), the England Cricket Board (ECB) announced former New Zealand captain Brendon McCullum as the head coach of England's Test team. Earlier, they were reports of former South African opener Gary Kirsten getting the top job, however, McCullum pipped Kirsten to bag the post. For the unversed, McCullum has coached the likes of Trinbago Knight Riders and Kolkata Knight Riders in the IPL, however, the England job will be his maiden full-fledged role as a national team coach. He has signed a four-year deal with the ECB and his tenure starts with England's home series versus New Zealand, i.e. the current World Test champions. In his column for The Telegraph, the 2005-06 Ashes-winning England skipper Michael Vaughan reacted to McCullum's appointment. He wrote, "If English cricket has overlooked someone like Gary Kirsten for a second time, I do find it incredibly bizarre. I don't see how we have made that call twice. He is the perfect mentor, thinker, and cultural driver who has done it before and has the t-shirt. What England have gone for in Brendon is exciting and a big name, but it is a big risk as well." ALSO READ | New Zealand's former captain Brendon McCullum named coach of England Test team "I am all for attacking play and being aggressive (a brand of cricket McCullum mostly relies upon), but I don’t think this England Test team is in a position to play that way at the moment. They have to take small steps first and get used to playing long, hard periods of Test cricket. And then in time, if you get a group of players with a lot of confidence, they can play more flamboyantly," he added. It will be interesting to see how McCullum runs the England Test team, which is in a disarray after disastrous Ashes 2021-22 edition and a series defeat to hosts West Indies, in the Caribbean island. McCullum-Ben Stokes, the newly-appointed England Test captain, have a stern task ahead to revamp the national side in whites.

Michael Vaughan reacts as Brendon McCullum pips Gary Kirsten to be named England's Test coach

Novak Djokovic ended Stan Wawrinka`s hopes of stringing together a hat-trick of match wins for the first time in 18 months with a 6-2 6-2 thumping in the last 16 of the Italian Open on Thursday. The 37-year-old Swiss, who had not played for 12 months after undergoing two surgeries for a foot injury, battled past Reilly Opelka and Laslo Djere to set up a 26th meeting with top seed Djokovic in the Italian capital, and first since 2019.

The 361st ranked Warinka, who last won three successive matches at the 2020 Paris Masters, could not cope with Djokovic`s baseline intensity in the first set and was broken twice. Wawrinka showed incredible defence to break Djokovic in the sixth game of the second set but a double break from the world number one carried him to victory.

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It was Djokovic`s 20th win over Wawrinka, and 998th career victory, as he bids to become the fifth player to reach the 1000-win mark. "It is great to see Stan back," the Serbian said. "He won two matches here, he is still physically not there, but he is still Stan and can hurt you.

"From the beginning I really moved him around the court and held my serve well. I know what is expected from me next." Djokovic will face Canadian Felix Auger Aliassime in the quarter finals after the 21-year-old beat American Marcos Giron 6-3 6-2.

Alexander Zverev chalked up a century of match wins at Masters 1000 events with a 6-3 7-6(5) win over Australian Alex de Minaur, while world number five Stefanos Tsitsipas battled back from a set down to beat 4-6 6-0 6-3 Russian Karen Khachanov.

Novak Djokovic ended Stan Wawrinka`s hopes of stringing together a hat-trick of match wins for the first time in 18 months with a 6-2 6-2 thumping in the last 16 of the Italian Open on Thursday.

Novak Djokovic ended Stan Wawrinka`s hopes of stringing together a hat-trick of match wins for the first time in 18 months with a 6-2 6-2 thumping in the last 16 of the Italian Open on Thursday. The 37-year-old Swiss, who had not played for 12 months after undergoing two surgeries for a foot injury, battled past Reilly Opelka and Laslo Djere to set up a 26th meeting with top seed Djokovic in the Italian capital, and first since 2019. The 361st ranked Warinka, who last won three successive matches at the 2020 Paris Masters, could not cope with Djokovic`s baseline intensity in the first set and was broken twice. Wawrinka showed incredible defence to break Djokovic in the sixth game of the second set but a double break from the world number one carried him to victory. ALSO READ | Spaniard Rafael Nadal knocked out of Italian Open by Denis Shapovalov in last-16 It was Djokovic`s 20th win over Wawrinka, and 998th career victory, as he bids to become the fifth player to reach the 1000-win mark. "It is great to see Stan back," the Serbian said. "He won two matches here, he is still physically not there, but he is still Stan and can hurt you. "From the beginning I really moved him around the court and held my serve well. I know what is expected from me next." Djokovic will face Canadian Felix Auger Aliassime in the quarter finals after the 21-year-old beat American Marcos Giron 6-3 6-2. Alexander Zverev chalked up a century of match wins at Masters 1000 events with a 6-3 7-6(5) win over Australian Alex de Minaur, while world number five Stefanos Tsitsipas battled back from a set down to beat 4-6 6-0 6-3 Russian Karen Khachanov.

World No. 1 Novak Djokovic cruises past Stan Wawrinka to reach Rome quarter-finals

Match 60 of the IPL 2022 edition will see the three-time runners-up Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) take on the Punjab Kings (PBKS) at the Brabourne Stadium, Mumbai on Friday evening (May 13). It is a crucial game for both sides as one team will fight for survival as the other will like to get closer to the playoffs berth.

Talking about the Faf du Plessis-led RCB camp, the 2016 runners-up have 14 points from 12 games. They need a win in their remaining two fixtures but will be eager to get on a winning streak to ensure a top-two finish and also strengthen their chances of lifting their maiden title this season. While they had struggled for form just sometime back, Bengaluru have staged a comeback and are coming into this fixture on the back of two good wins, versus Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH).&nbsp;

On the other hand, the inconsistent Punjab unit are coming into this game with a defeat at the hands of Rajasthan Royals (RR) in a high-scoring affair. The one-time runners-up continue to blow hot and cold this season as well with their batting combination still not looking settled whereas their bowlers have leaked runs in the middle overs. Nonetheless, they enjoy turning up against RCB, against whom they have a 16-13 head-to-head tally and have won four out of the five games since 2020.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2022-playoffs-qualification-scenario-explained-heres-how-7-teams-remain-in-fray-for-3-spots-478603">IPL 2022 playoffs qualification scenario: EXPLAINED! Here's how 7 teams remain in fray for 3 spots</a>

Match prediction for Punjab vs Bengaluru:&nbsp;This will be the first game at Brabourne since the Mumbai Indians (MI)-Gujarat Titans (GT) clash, on May 06. A fresh surface is expected to be used and, hence, batters might flex their muscles with favourable conditions. Expect a 175-plus contest with Punjab to continue its dominance over RCB.

Match 60 of the IPL 2022 edition will see the three-time runners-up Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) take on the Punjab Kings (PBKS) at the Brabourne Stadium, Mumbai on Friday evening (May 13).

Match 60 of the IPL 2022 edition will see the three-time runners-up Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) take on the Punjab Kings (PBKS) at the Brabourne Stadium, Mumbai on Friday evening (May 13). It is a crucial game for both sides as one team will fight for survival as the other will like to get closer to the playoffs berth. Talking about the Faf du Plessis-led RCB camp, the 2016 runners-up have 14 points from 12 games. They need a win in their remaining two fixtures but will be eager to get on a winning streak to ensure a top-two finish and also strengthen their chances of lifting their maiden title this season. While they had struggled for form just sometime back, Bengaluru have staged a comeback and are coming into this fixture on the back of two good wins, versus Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH). On the other hand, the inconsistent Punjab unit are coming into this game with a defeat at the hands of Rajasthan Royals (RR) in a high-scoring affair. The one-time runners-up continue to blow hot and cold this season as well with their batting combination still not looking settled whereas their bowlers have leaked runs in the middle overs. Nonetheless, they enjoy turning up against RCB, against whom they have a 16-13 head-to-head tally and have won four out of the five games since 2020. ALSO READ | IPL 2022 playoffs qualification scenario: EXPLAINED! Here's how 7 teams remain in fray for 3 spots Match prediction for Punjab vs Bengaluru: This will be the first game at Brabourne since the Mumbai Indians (MI)-Gujarat Titans (GT) clash, on May 06. A fresh surface is expected to be used and, hence, batters might flex their muscles with favourable conditions. Expect a 175-plus contest with Punjab to continue its dominance over RCB.

PBKS vs RCB, IPL 2022 prediction today: Who will win Punjab Kings vs Royal Challengers Bangalore match?

Real Madrid continued their preparations for the Champions League final with a comfortable 6-0 win at home to Levante. First-half goals from Ferland Mendy, Karim Benzema, Rodrygo and Vinicius Jr gave Madrid a 4-0 lead as Carlo Ancelotti continued to rotate his side ahead of the final in two and a half weeks. 
Vinicius scored his second of the game in the 68th minute and completed his hat-trick seven minutes from time against a rival that appeared to accept their fate on Thursday night. 
 
The result means Levante become the first side of the season to be relegated to the second division, given they have an inferior head-to-head goal average with fourth from bottom Cadiz. Also, Benzema scripted another illustrious feat, equalling Raul's incredible goal record (323), with the list being topped by&nbsp;Cristiano Ronaldo for the club (with 451 goals). 
 
Real Sociedad beat Cadiz 3-0 in the first kick-off of the day to ensure they will play at least Conference League next season. Alexander Sorloth put the home side ahead in the 19th minute of the game and penalties scored by Adnan Januzaj in the 53rd minute and Portu deep in injury time mean the team from San Sebastian can finish no lower than seventh this season.

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The result also means that Cadiz still have work to do to avoid relegation and this weekend`s match against Alaves will be vital to their survival. Villarreal also took a big step towards qualifying for Europe next season as they won 5-1 away to Rayo Vallecano. 
 
Alfonso Pedraza put the visitors ahead in the third minute and although Sergi Guardiola pulled a goal back for Rayo, Juan Foyth, Paco Alcacer and Pau Torres made it 4-1 to the visitors before halftime. Pedraza netted a second in the second half to seal an easy win for the visitors. 
 
The win leaves Villarreal four points clear of eighth-place Athletic Club Bilbao, who lost 1-0 to Granada on Tuesday. Other results this week saw FC Barcelona win 3-1 at home to Celta, while Atletico Madrid assured a place in next season`s Champions League with a 2-0 win in Elche, who are safe from relegation.

Real Madrid continued their preparations for the Champions League final with a comfortable 6-0 win at home to Levante. First-half goals from Ferland Mendy, Karim Benzema, Rodrygo and Vinicius Jr gave Madrid a 4-0 lead as Carlo Ancelotti continued to rotate his side ahead of the final in two and a half weeks.

Real Madrid continued their preparations for the Champions League final with a comfortable 6-0 win at home to Levante. First-half goals from Ferland Mendy, Karim Benzema, Rodrygo and Vinicius Jr gave Madrid a 4-0 lead as Carlo Ancelotti continued to rotate his side ahead of the final in two and a half weeks. Vinicius scored his second of the game in the 68th minute and completed his hat-trick seven minutes from time against a rival that appeared to accept their fate on Thursday night. The result means Levante become the first side of the season to be relegated to the second division, given they have an inferior head-to-head goal average with fourth from bottom Cadiz. Also, Benzema scripted another illustrious feat, equalling Raul's incredible goal record (323), with the list being topped by Cristiano Ronaldo for the club (with 451 goals). Real Sociedad beat Cadiz 3-0 in the first kick-off of the day to ensure they will play at least Conference League next season. Alexander Sorloth put the home side ahead in the 19th minute of the game and penalties scored by Adnan Januzaj in the 53rd minute and Portu deep in injury time mean the team from San Sebastian can finish no lower than seventh this season. ALSO READ | Ajax Amsterdam announce Alfred Schreuder as new coach, to replace Manchester United-bound Erik ten Hag The result also means that Cadiz still have work to do to avoid relegation and this weekend`s match against Alaves will be vital to their survival. Villarreal also took a big step towards qualifying for Europe next season as they won 5-1 away to Rayo Vallecano. Alfonso Pedraza put the visitors ahead in the third minute and although Sergi Guardiola pulled a goal back for Rayo, Juan Foyth, Paco Alcacer and Pau Torres made it 4-1 to the visitors before halftime. Pedraza netted a second in the second half to seal an easy win for the visitors. The win leaves Villarreal four points clear of eighth-place Athletic Club Bilbao, who lost 1-0 to Granada on Tuesday. Other results this week saw FC Barcelona win 3-1 at home to Celta, while Atletico Madrid assured a place in next season`s Champions League with a 2-0 win in Elche, who are safe from relegation.

Real Madrid thrash Levante as Karim Benzema equals with Raul's goal-record, only behind Cristiano Ronaldo

Rafa Nadal was knocked out of the Italian Open after the 21-times major winner was beaten 1-6 7-5 6-2 by Canadian Denis Shapovalov in the last-16 of the Italian Open on Thursday. Nadal had a solid start, but the 35-year-old struggled physically towards the end of the contest, raising doubts over his fitness ahead of the French Open, which he has won a record 13 times.

The Spaniard, who has endured a string of injuries during a career spanning more than two decades, dominated the opening set with his brilliant return of serves. Canadian Shapovalov responded in style by racing to a 4-1 lead in the second set with his energetic and attacking play, but Nadal got back into the contest by winning the next three games.

Nadal saved a set point at 4-5 but a series of unforced errors and lack of aggression from him saw the match go into the deciding third set. World number four Nadal broke through right away at the start of the decider but later limped with an apparent foot injury, likely related to his chronic left-foot problem. 
Shapovalov went won 17 of the last 20 points, completing his comeback as he handed Nadal his earliest Rome exit since 2008.

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"I am not injured. I am a player living with an injury. That`s it," Nadal told reporters. "I started the match playing much better. My practice was much better, the warm-up, than the other day. "Then when these kind of stuff happens, the rest of the things, the rest of the positive things disappears."

Shapovalov said he hoped Nadal would recover in time for the French Open, which starts on 22nd May. 
"Definitely tough to see him in pain there at the end. I never want to see that, especially with a great legend like Rafa," he added. "He`s been winning so much, I think it`s almost been difficult for him to stop playing and kind of take it easy."

Earlier, Novak Djokovic ended Stan Wawrinka`s hopes of stringing together a hat-trick of match wins for the first time in 18 months with a 6-2 6-2 thumping. The 37-year-old Swiss, who had not played for 12 months after undergoing two surgeries for a foot injury, battled past Reilly Opelka and Laslo Djere to set up a 26th meeting with top seed Djokovic in the Italian capital, and first since 2019.

The 361st ranked Wawrinka, who last won three successive matches at the 2020 Paris Masters, could not cope with Djokovic`s baseline intensity in the first set and was broken twice. Wawrinka showed incredible defence to break Djokovic in the sixth game of the second set but a double break from the world number one carried him to victory.

It was Djokovic`s 20th win over Wawrinka, and 998th career victory, as he bids to become the fifth player to reach the 1000-win mark. "It is great to see Stan back," the Serbian said. "He won two matches here, he is still physically not there, but he is still Stan and can hurt you. 
"From the beginning I really moved him around the court and held my serve well. I know what is expected from me next."

Djokovic will face Canadian Felix Auger Aliassime in the quarter-finals after the 21-year-old beat American Marcos Giron 6-3 6-2. Alexander Zverev chalked up a century of match wins at Masters 1000 events with a 6-3 7-6(5) win over Australian Alex de Minaur, while world number five Stefanos Tsitsipas battled back from a set down to beat 4-6 6-0 6-3 Russian Karen Khachanov.

Local hope Jannik Sinner reached his first quarter-final in Rome with a 6-2 7-6(6) victory over Filip Krajinovic, while fifth seed Casper Ruud won 6-3 6-4 against Jenson Brooksby.

Rafa Nadal was knocked out of the Italian Open after the 21-times major winner was beaten 1-6 7-5 6-2 by Canadian Denis Shapovalov in the last-16 of the Italian Open on Thursday.

Rafa Nadal was knocked out of the Italian Open after the 21-times major winner was beaten 1-6 7-5 6-2 by Canadian Denis Shapovalov in the last-16 of the Italian Open on Thursday. Nadal had a solid start, but the 35-year-old struggled physically towards the end of the contest, raising doubts over his fitness ahead of the French Open, which he has won a record 13 times. The Spaniard, who has endured a string of injuries during a career spanning more than two decades, dominated the opening set with his brilliant return of serves. Canadian Shapovalov responded in style by racing to a 4-1 lead in the second set with his energetic and attacking play, but Nadal got back into the contest by winning the next three games. Nadal saved a set point at 4-5 but a series of unforced errors and lack of aggression from him saw the match go into the deciding third set. World number four Nadal broke through right away at the start of the decider but later limped with an apparent foot injury, likely related to his chronic left-foot problem. Shapovalov went won 17 of the last 20 points, completing his comeback as he handed Nadal his earliest Rome exit since 2008. ALSO READ | World No. 1 Iga Swiatek wins 25th straight match to reach Rome quarter-finals "I am not injured. I am a player living with an injury. That`s it," Nadal told reporters. "I started the match playing much better. My practice was much better, the warm-up, than the other day. "Then when these kind of stuff happens, the rest of the things, the rest of the positive things disappears." Shapovalov said he hoped Nadal would recover in time for the French Open, which starts on 22nd May. "Definitely tough to see him in pain there at the end. I never want to see that, especially with a great legend like Rafa," he added. "He`s been winning so much, I think it`s almost been difficult for him to stop playing and kind of take it easy." Earlier, Novak Djokovic ended Stan Wawrinka`s hopes of stringing together a hat-trick of match wins for the first time in 18 months with a 6-2 6-2 thumping. The 37-year-old Swiss, who had not played for 12 months after undergoing two surgeries for a foot injury, battled past Reilly Opelka and Laslo Djere to set up a 26th meeting with top seed Djokovic in the Italian capital, and first since 2019. The 361st ranked Wawrinka, who last won three successive matches at the 2020 Paris Masters, could not cope with Djokovic`s baseline intensity in the first set and was broken twice. Wawrinka showed incredible defence to break Djokovic in the sixth game of the second set but a double break from the world number one carried him to victory. It was Djokovic`s 20th win over Wawrinka, and 998th career victory, as he bids to become the fifth player to reach the 1000-win mark. "It is great to see Stan back," the Serbian said. "He won two matches here, he is still physically not there, but he is still Stan and can hurt you. "From the beginning I really moved him around the court and held my serve well. I know what is expected from me next." Djokovic will face Canadian Felix Auger Aliassime in the quarter-finals after the 21-year-old beat American Marcos Giron 6-3 6-2. Alexander Zverev chalked up a century of match wins at Masters 1000 events with a 6-3 7-6(5) win over Australian Alex de Minaur, while world number five Stefanos Tsitsipas battled back from a set down to beat 4-6 6-0 6-3 Russian Karen Khachanov. Local hope Jannik Sinner reached his first quarter-final in Rome with a 6-2 7-6(6) victory over Filip Krajinovic, while fifth seed Casper Ruud won 6-3 6-4 against Jenson Brooksby.

Spaniard Rafael Nadal knocked out of Italian Open by Denis Shapovalov in last-16

The Indian men's badminton team scripted a memorable 3-2 win over Malaysia to enter the semifinals of Thomas Cup for the first time in 43 years but the women's side bowed out after losing 0-3 to Thailand in the Uber Cup here on Thursday.

India is thus assured of at least a bronze at the Thomas Cup. The country has not won a medal at the event since 1979. India had bagged three bronze in the past when they reached inter-zonal finals. However, it is the first time since the change in the qualifying format that the country won a medal at the prestigious tournament.

Up against a team that has won the title five times, the world number 8 pairing of Chirag Shetty and Satwiksairaj Rankireddy, world championships silver medallist Kidambi Srikanth and HS Prannoy rose to the occasion to see India home. India will next take on either Korea or Denmark.

A lot of expectation rode on world championships bronze winner Lakshya Sen but he couldn't go the distance in the opening singles, losing 21-23 9-21 to reigning world champion Lee Zii Jia in 46 minutes. 
With the Malaysian fans thronging the Impact Arena, Chirag Shetty and Satwiksairaj Rankireddy took to the court and the duo dished out a superlative performance to outwit world number 13 Goh Sze Fei and Nur Izzuddin 21-19 21-15 to bring India back in the five-match tie.

It was an all-out attack in the final phase of the second game which saw the Indian pair set up five match points with Chirag converting with a smash, leaving the Indian camp all pumped up. 
Srikanth rode on his superior and varied strokeplay to outclass world number 46 NG Tze Yong 21-11 21-17 and give India a 2-1 lead.

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The world number 45 combination of Krishna Prasad Garaga and Vishnuvardhan Goud Panjala were handed the task of taming Aaron Chia and Teo Ee Yi and the Indian pair produced a good effort before losing 19-21 17-21 as the match went into the decider.

World number 23 HS Prannoy was all fired up in the final contest as he handled the pressure to erase an 1-6 deficit early in the first game to eventually canter to a 21-13 21-8 win over 22-year-old Jun Hao Leong as India completed a fantastic come-from-behind victory.

The moment Prannoy unleashed a smash to seal the contest, his teammates entered the court and rejoiced. 
Earlier, double Olympic medallist P V Sindhu fought hard before losing to Ratchanok Intanon as the Indian women's team crashed out of the Uber Cup Finals after being drubbed 0-3 by Thailand in the quarterfinals. 
World No. 7 Sindhu was off colour for the second consecutive day as she squandered a one-game lead to go down 21-18 17-21 12-21 against Intanon, ranked eighth, in a 59-minute first women's singles match. 
The defeat means Sindhu now trails Intanon 4-7 on head-to-head record.

India were down 0-2 when the women's doubles pair of Shruti Mishra and Simran Singhi lost 16-21 13-21 against the Thai pair of Jongkolphan Kititharakul and Rawinda Prajongjai. It was no better for Aakarshi Kashyap, who surrendered 16-21 11-21 to Pornpawee Chochuwong in the second singles match that lasted 42 minutes, as Thailand completed a 3-0 thrashing, making the remaining two matches of the tie redundant.

The Indian men's badminton team scripted a memorable 3-2 win over Malaysia to enter the semifinals of Thomas Cup for the first time in 43 years but the women's side bowed out after losing 0-3 to Thailand in the Uber Cup here on Thursday.

The Indian men's badminton team scripted a memorable 3-2 win over Malaysia to enter the semifinals of Thomas Cup for the first time in 43 years but the women's side bowed out after losing 0-3 to Thailand in the Uber Cup here on Thursday. India is thus assured of at least a bronze at the Thomas Cup. The country has not won a medal at the event since 1979. India had bagged three bronze in the past when they reached inter-zonal finals. However, it is the first time since the change in the qualifying format that the country won a medal at the prestigious tournament. Up against a team that has won the title five times, the world number 8 pairing of Chirag Shetty and Satwiksairaj Rankireddy, world championships silver medallist Kidambi Srikanth and HS Prannoy rose to the occasion to see India home. India will next take on either Korea or Denmark. A lot of expectation rode on world championships bronze winner Lakshya Sen but he couldn't go the distance in the opening singles, losing 21-23 9-21 to reigning world champion Lee Zii Jia in 46 minutes. With the Malaysian fans thronging the Impact Arena, Chirag Shetty and Satwiksairaj Rankireddy took to the court and the duo dished out a superlative performance to outwit world number 13 Goh Sze Fei and Nur Izzuddin 21-19 21-15 to bring India back in the five-match tie. It was an all-out attack in the final phase of the second game which saw the Indian pair set up five match points with Chirag converting with a smash, leaving the Indian camp all pumped up. Srikanth rode on his superior and varied strokeplay to outclass world number 46 NG Tze Yong 21-11 21-17 and give India a 2-1 lead. ALSO READ | PV Sindhu-led India crash out of Uber Cup, go down to Thailand in quarter-finals The world number 45 combination of Krishna Prasad Garaga and Vishnuvardhan Goud Panjala were handed the task of taming Aaron Chia and Teo Ee Yi and the Indian pair produced a good effort before losing 19-21 17-21 as the match went into the decider. World number 23 HS Prannoy was all fired up in the final contest as he handled the pressure to erase an 1-6 deficit early in the first game to eventually canter to a 21-13 21-8 win over 22-year-old Jun Hao Leong as India completed a fantastic come-from-behind victory. The moment Prannoy unleashed a smash to seal the contest, his teammates entered the court and rejoiced. Earlier, double Olympic medallist P V Sindhu fought hard before losing to Ratchanok Intanon as the Indian women's team crashed out of the Uber Cup Finals after being drubbed 0-3 by Thailand in the quarterfinals. World No. 7 Sindhu was off colour for the second consecutive day as she squandered a one-game lead to go down 21-18 17-21 12-21 against Intanon, ranked eighth, in a 59-minute first women's singles match. The defeat means Sindhu now trails Intanon 4-7 on head-to-head record. India were down 0-2 when the women's doubles pair of Shruti Mishra and Simran Singhi lost 16-21 13-21 against the Thai pair of Jongkolphan Kititharakul and Rawinda Prajongjai. It was no better for Aakarshi Kashyap, who surrendered 16-21 11-21 to Pornpawee Chochuwong in the second singles match that lasted 42 minutes, as Thailand completed a 3-0 thrashing, making the remaining two matches of the tie redundant.

Thomas Cup: Kidambi Srikanth & Co. beat Malaysia in thrilling tie to assure India of a bronze medal

Double Olympic medallist P V Sindhu fought hard before losing to Ratchanok Intanon as the Indian women's badminton team crashed out of the Uber Cup Finals after being drubbed 0-3 by Thailand in the quarterfinals, here on Thursday.

World No. 7 Sindhu was off colour for the second consecutive day as she squandered one-game lead to go down 21-18 17-21 12-21 against Intanon, ranked eighth, in a 59-minute first women's singles match. 
The defeat means Sindhu now trails Intanon 4-7 on head-to-head record. India were down 0-2 when the women's doubles pair of Shruti Mishra and Simran Singhi lost 16-21 13-21 against the Thai pair of Jongkolphan Kititharakul and Rawinda Prajongjai.

It was no better for Aakarshi Kashyap, who surrendered 16-21 11-21 to Pornpawee Chochuwong in the second singles match that lasted 42 minutes. As Thailand took an unassailable 3-0 lead, the remaining two matches of the tie became redundant and were not played.

In the second women's doubles contest, the Indian pair of Tanisha Crasto and Treesa Jolly was to face Benyapa Aimsaard and Nuntakarn Aimsaard, while Ashmita Chaliha was scheduled to play Busanan Ongbamrungphan.

Earlier on Wednesday, Sindhu lost in straight games 15-21 14-21 against world number four An Seyoung in India's final Group D match, where it was blanked 0-5 by Korea. But the loss hardly made any difference as India, by then, had already sealed a quarterfinal berth after ensuring a top-two finish in the group after back-to-back victories over Canada and USA.

The Indian men's team will play Malaysia in the quarterfinals of the Thomas Cup Final later in the day.&nbsp;

Double Olympic medallist P V Sindhu fought hard before losing to Ratchanok Intanon as the Indian women's badminton team crashed out of the Uber Cup Finals after being drubbed 0-3 by Thailand in the quarterfinals, here on Thursday.

Double Olympic medallist P V Sindhu fought hard before losing to Ratchanok Intanon as the Indian women's badminton team crashed out of the Uber Cup Finals after being drubbed 0-3 by Thailand in the quarterfinals, here on Thursday. World No. 7 Sindhu was off colour for the second consecutive day as she squandered one-game lead to go down 21-18 17-21 12-21 against Intanon, ranked eighth, in a 59-minute first women's singles match. The defeat means Sindhu now trails Intanon 4-7 on head-to-head record. India were down 0-2 when the women's doubles pair of Shruti Mishra and Simran Singhi lost 16-21 13-21 against the Thai pair of Jongkolphan Kititharakul and Rawinda Prajongjai. It was no better for Aakarshi Kashyap, who surrendered 16-21 11-21 to Pornpawee Chochuwong in the second singles match that lasted 42 minutes. As Thailand took an unassailable 3-0 lead, the remaining two matches of the tie became redundant and were not played. In the second women's doubles contest, the Indian pair of Tanisha Crasto and Treesa Jolly was to face Benyapa Aimsaard and Nuntakarn Aimsaard, while Ashmita Chaliha was scheduled to play Busanan Ongbamrungphan. Earlier on Wednesday, Sindhu lost in straight games 15-21 14-21 against world number four An Seyoung in India's final Group D match, where it was blanked 0-5 by Korea. But the loss hardly made any difference as India, by then, had already sealed a quarterfinal berth after ensuring a top-two finish in the group after back-to-back victories over Canada and USA. The Indian men's team will play Malaysia in the quarterfinals of the Thomas Cup Final later in the day.

PV Sindhu-led India crash out of Uber Cup, go down to Thailand in quarter-finals

MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have locked horns with their arch-rivals and bottom-ranked Mumbai Indians (MI) in match 59 of IPL 2022 edition, on Thursday evening (May 12), at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai. In a must-win clash for the defending champions and four-time winners, nothing has clicked for them including the coin toss.

After being asked to bat first, CSK paid the price for both teams not having the DRS available to them due to power cut at the iconic stadium. As a result, Devon Conway, in the in-form opener, was wrongly adjudged lbw and Chennai never recovered from thereon. They were 29-5 and managed to reach close to the three-figure mark due to MS Dhoni's 33-ball 36*. Chennai eventually folded for a paltry 97 in 17 overs (rocked by Daniels Sams' 3 for 16 and two scalps each from Riley Meredith-Kumar Kartikeya) to succumb to a new low in what has been a forgettable season for them.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/csk-vs-mi-explained-heres-why-both-teams-were-deprived-of-drs-during-first-10-balls-of-the-contest-478426">CSK vs MI: EXPLAINED! Here's why both teams were deprived of DRS during first 10 balls of the contest</a>

Thus, this became CSK's second-lowest total in IPL (both coming versus MI at the same venue).

Low totals for CSK in IPL

79 MI Wankhede Stadium 2013 
97 MI Wankhede Stadium 2022* 
109 RR Jaipur 2008 
109 MI Chepauk 2019

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ravindra-jadeja-might-not-be-with-csk-in-ipl-2023-says-ex-indian-opener-amid-rift-rumours-478419">Ravindra Jadeja might not be with CSK in IPL 2023, says ex-Indian opener amid rift rumours</a>

CSK had to win the game anyhow, that too by a big margin, to keep their playoff hopes alive. After their dismal run in the first half of the encounter, they are down and out and heading towards an early exit in their title-defence campaign.

MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have locked horns with their arch-rivals and bottom-ranked Mumbai Indians (MI) in match 59 of IPL 2022 edition, on Thursday evening (May 12), at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai.

MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have locked horns with their arch-rivals and bottom-ranked Mumbai Indians (MI) in match 59 of IPL 2022 edition, on Thursday evening (May 12), at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai. In a must-win clash for the defending champions and four-time winners, nothing has clicked for them including the coin toss. After being asked to bat first, CSK paid the price for both teams not having the DRS available to them due to power cut at the iconic stadium. As a result, Devon Conway, in the in-form opener, was wrongly adjudged lbw and Chennai never recovered from thereon. They were 29-5 and managed to reach close to the three-figure mark due to MS Dhoni's 33-ball 36*. Chennai eventually folded for a paltry 97 in 17 overs (rocked by Daniels Sams' 3 for 16 and two scalps each from Riley Meredith-Kumar Kartikeya) to succumb to a new low in what has been a forgettable season for them. ALSO READ | CSK vs MI: EXPLAINED! Here's why both teams were deprived of DRS during first 10 balls of the contest Thus, this became CSK's second-lowest total in IPL (both coming versus MI at the same venue). Low totals for CSK in IPL 79 MI Wankhede Stadium 2013 97 MI Wankhede Stadium 2022* 109 RR Jaipur 2008 109 MI Chepauk 2019 ALSO READ | Ravindra Jadeja might not be with CSK in IPL 2023, says ex-Indian opener amid rift rumours CSK had to win the game anyhow, that too by a big margin, to keep their playoff hopes alive. After their dismal run in the first half of the encounter, they are down and out and heading towards an early exit in their title-defence campaign.

CSK vs MI: 97 all-out! MS Dhoni & Co. succumb to a new low, register their 2nd lowest IPL total

Mumbai Indians on Thursday snuffed out defending champions Chennai Super Kings' faint hopes of making the Indian Super League play-offs with a five-wicket win in a low-scoring match here. Opting to bowl, MI shot CSK out for 97 with pacer Daniel Sams (3/16 from 4 overs) running though the MS Dhoni-led side's top-order with three quick wickets in a fiery opening spell, and then huffed and puffed to overhaul the small target of 98 with 31 balls to spare.

MI were four wickets down for 33 runs in the fifth over before Tilak Varma (34 not out off 32 balls) and Hrithik Shooken (18) calmed the frayed nerves with a 48-run stand for the fifth wicket. MI reached 103 for 5 in 14.5 overs. Tim David remained not out on 16 off just seven balls.

With their eighth loss in 12 matches, CSK are out of the reckoning for a play-offs berth. They remained at ninth position with eight points. Already out of the reckoning for a play-offs berth long time ago, MI remained rooted at the 10th and bottom place with three wins from 12 matches.

Both CSK and MI have two inconsequential matches left to be played. It will be the first time in IPL history that neither MI nor CSK would be part of the play-offs. Defending 97, Mukesh Choudhary (3/23) struck in the fifth ball of the opening over as Ishan Kishan (6) poked well away from his body to see a thin edge go through to Dhoni behind the stumps.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/updated-ipl-2022-points-table-after-mumbai-indians-thrash-chennai-super-kings-by-5-wickets-478464">Updated IPL 2022 points table after Mumbai Indians thrash Chennai Super Kings by 5 wickets</a>

MI captain Rohit Sharma found a four each off Choudhary and Simarjeet Singh in the next two overs. But Simarjeet had the last laugh in the fourth over, having Rohit caught by Dhoni. 
Choudhary then raised hopes of a CSK miracle by having Daniel Sams (1) and Tristan Stubbs (0) in the space of three balls in the fifth over. MI were 36 for 4 after powerplay and Hrithik Shokeen survived after a review. Moeen Ali broke the fifth-wicket partnership between Varma and Shooken by having the latter in the 13th over but it was too late as MI needed just 17 runs from 7.2 overs.

Earlier, Sams tore apart the CSK top-order from which the Dhoni-led team never recovered. Riley Meredith and Kumar Kartikeya chipped in with two wickets apiece while Jasprit Bumrah and Ramandeep Singh got one each as CSK innings folded in 16 overs. CSK's woes were compounded with the non-availability of Decision Review System (DRS) due to power cut at one of the floodlight towers at Wankhede Stadium after the start of their innings during which they lost three wickets, with two being LBW decisions.

Captain Dhoni played a lone hand for CSK with a 33-ball 36 not out with the help of four boundaries and two sixes. None of his colleagues gave him company in a pathetic batting display. Dwayne Bravo (12), who shared 39 runs with Dhoni for the seventh wicket, the best partnership in the CSK innings, was the second-best batter. But for the 15 extras Mumbai bowlers conceded, the CSK total would have been much lower. 
In the end, Dhoni ran out of partners.

Conway, who played a match-winning knock of 87 in CSK's match against Delhi Capitals, was struck on the pad off the second ball of the innings bowled by Sams. The umpire raised his finger though the ball hit him just below the knee-roll and looked to be going down the leg. There was no DRS, and Conway had to go for nought. Two balls later, Moeen Ali (0) edged another Sams delivery for Hrithik Shooken to take a catch at short midwicket, as CSK were down two wickets for five runs in the opening over.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/csk-vs-mi-97-all-out-ms-dhoni-co-succumb-to-a-new-low-register-their-2nd-lowest-ipl-total-478441">CSK vs MI: 97 all-out! MS Dhoni &amp; Co. succumb to a new low, register their 2nd lowest IPL total</a>

It was the turn of Bumrah to join the party as he dismissed Robin Uthappa (1) who could not ask for DRS review of the LBW decision. CSK got a bit of relief after the 10-ball mayhem but Sams was not done yet as he removed opener Ruturaj Gaikwad (7) who edged behind the wicket to Ishan Kishan in the first ball of the fifth over. CSK were 32 for 5 after powerplay. After Shivam Dubey was out in the seventh over, Dhoni and Dwayne Bravo slowed down the procession to the dressing room, as they took CSK to 72 for 6 at the end of 12th over.

But CSK were back to square one as Bravo, Simarjeet Singh and Maheesh Theekshana fell in the space of eight balls to be reduced to 87 for 9 at the end of 15 overs.

Mumbai Indians on Thursday snuffed out defending champions Chennai Super Kings' faint hopes of making the Indian Super League play-offs with a five-wicket win in a low-scoring match here.

Mumbai Indians on Thursday snuffed out defending champions Chennai Super Kings' faint hopes of making the Indian Super League play-offs with a five-wicket win in a low-scoring match here. Opting to bowl, MI shot CSK out for 97 with pacer Daniel Sams (3/16 from 4 overs) running though the MS Dhoni-led side's top-order with three quick wickets in a fiery opening spell, and then huffed and puffed to overhaul the small target of 98 with 31 balls to spare. MI were four wickets down for 33 runs in the fifth over before Tilak Varma (34 not out off 32 balls) and Hrithik Shooken (18) calmed the frayed nerves with a 48-run stand for the fifth wicket. MI reached 103 for 5 in 14.5 overs. Tim David remained not out on 16 off just seven balls. With their eighth loss in 12 matches, CSK are out of the reckoning for a play-offs berth. They remained at ninth position with eight points. Already out of the reckoning for a play-offs berth long time ago, MI remained rooted at the 10th and bottom place with three wins from 12 matches. Both CSK and MI have two inconsequential matches left to be played. It will be the first time in IPL history that neither MI nor CSK would be part of the play-offs. Defending 97, Mukesh Choudhary (3/23) struck in the fifth ball of the opening over as Ishan Kishan (6) poked well away from his body to see a thin edge go through to Dhoni behind the stumps. ALSO READ | Updated IPL 2022 points table after Mumbai Indians thrash Chennai Super Kings by 5 wickets MI captain Rohit Sharma found a four each off Choudhary and Simarjeet Singh in the next two overs. But Simarjeet had the last laugh in the fourth over, having Rohit caught by Dhoni. Choudhary then raised hopes of a CSK miracle by having Daniel Sams (1) and Tristan Stubbs (0) in the space of three balls in the fifth over. MI were 36 for 4 after powerplay and Hrithik Shokeen survived after a review. Moeen Ali broke the fifth-wicket partnership between Varma and Shooken by having the latter in the 13th over but it was too late as MI needed just 17 runs from 7.2 overs. Earlier, Sams tore apart the CSK top-order from which the Dhoni-led team never recovered. Riley Meredith and Kumar Kartikeya chipped in with two wickets apiece while Jasprit Bumrah and Ramandeep Singh got one each as CSK innings folded in 16 overs. CSK's woes were compounded with the non-availability of Decision Review System (DRS) due to power cut at one of the floodlight towers at Wankhede Stadium after the start of their innings during which they lost three wickets, with two being LBW decisions. Captain Dhoni played a lone hand for CSK with a 33-ball 36 not out with the help of four boundaries and two sixes. None of his colleagues gave him company in a pathetic batting display. Dwayne Bravo (12), who shared 39 runs with Dhoni for the seventh wicket, the best partnership in the CSK innings, was the second-best batter. But for the 15 extras Mumbai bowlers conceded, the CSK total would have been much lower. In the end, Dhoni ran out of partners. Conway, who played a match-winning knock of 87 in CSK's match against Delhi Capitals, was struck on the pad off the second ball of the innings bowled by Sams. The umpire raised his finger though the ball hit him just below the knee-roll and looked to be going down the leg. There was no DRS, and Conway had to go for nought. Two balls later, Moeen Ali (0) edged another Sams delivery for Hrithik Shooken to take a catch at short midwicket, as CSK were down two wickets for five runs in the opening over. ALSO READ | CSK vs MI: 97 all-out! MS Dhoni & Co. succumb to a new low, register their 2nd lowest IPL total It was the turn of Bumrah to join the party as he dismissed Robin Uthappa (1) who could not ask for DRS review of the LBW decision. CSK got a bit of relief after the 10-ball mayhem but Sams was not done yet as he removed opener Ruturaj Gaikwad (7) who edged behind the wicket to Ishan Kishan in the first ball of the fifth over. CSK were 32 for 5 after powerplay. After Shivam Dubey was out in the seventh over, Dhoni and Dwayne Bravo slowed down the procession to the dressing room, as they took CSK to 72 for 6 at the end of 12th over. But CSK were back to square one as Bravo, Simarjeet Singh and Maheesh Theekshana fell in the space of eight balls to be reduced to 87 for 9 at the end of 15 overs.

IPL 2022: Clinical MI send CSK out of reckoning for play-offs with five-wicket win

Match 59 of the IPL 2022 edition saw the arch-rivals and bottom-lying Mumbai Indians (MI) and Chennai Super Kings (CSK) take on each other at the iconic Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai on Thursday evening (May 12). The match presented another opportunity for the five-time winners and already-eliminated Rohit Sharma-led MI franchise to add another two points in their kitty whereas it was a must-win clash for MS Dhoni's CSK.

Being alive in the playoffs race by the barest of margins, Chennai couldn't afford to let loose. However, nothing clicked for the defending champions and four-time winners as they conceded the game by 5 wickets. Being asked to bat first, amid power cut issues, CSK were off to a horrible start and soon reduced to 29-5 courtesy Daniel Sams' three quick strikes. Their top-order players couldn't even take the help of the DRS in the first ten deliveries due to the power cut. Barring Dhoni's 36*, no one stood tall as CSK folded for their second-lowest IPL total (97).

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/csk-vs-mi-97-all-out-ms-dhoni-co-succumb-to-a-new-low-register-their-2nd-lowest-ipl-total-478441">CSK vs MI: 97 all-out! MS Dhoni &amp; Co. succumb to a new low, register their 2nd lowest IPL total</a>

In reply, Rohit &amp; Co. were also reduced to 33 for 4 due to Mukesh Choudhary's early blows. However, a sedate 48-run fifth-wicket stand between young guns Hrithik Shoukeen-Tilak Verma steadied MI's innings as they won by five wickets.&nbsp;

Here's the updated points table after MI eliminate CSK:

<img alt="Points Table after CSK-MI clash" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="32319fad-7777-4aeb-b0fd-fdcf4d9ae394" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/PT%20MI-CSK.png" />

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/csk-vs-mi-explained-heres-why-both-teams-were-deprived-of-drs-during-first-10-balls-of-the-contest-478426">CSK vs MI: EXPLAINED! Here's why both teams were deprived of DRS during first 10 balls of the contest</a>

CSK and MI are now the two eliminated teams from the playoffs race as all the other seven franchises remain in contention or are close to qualifying for the next round. Gujarat Titans (GT) are the only side confirmed of a playoffs spot.

Match 59 of the IPL 2022 edition saw the arch-rivals and bottom-lying Mumbai Indians (MI) and Chennai Super Kings (CSK) take on each other at the iconic Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai on Thursday evening (May 12).

Match 59 of the IPL 2022 edition saw the arch-rivals and bottom-lying Mumbai Indians (MI) and Chennai Super Kings (CSK) take on each other at the iconic Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai on Thursday evening (May 12). The match presented another opportunity for the five-time winners and already-eliminated Rohit Sharma-led MI franchise to add another two points in their kitty whereas it was a must-win clash for MS Dhoni's CSK. Being alive in the playoffs race by the barest of margins, Chennai couldn't afford to let loose. However, nothing clicked for the defending champions and four-time winners as they conceded the game by 5 wickets. Being asked to bat first, amid power cut issues, CSK were off to a horrible start and soon reduced to 29-5 courtesy Daniel Sams' three quick strikes. Their top-order players couldn't even take the help of the DRS in the first ten deliveries due to the power cut. Barring Dhoni's 36*, no one stood tall as CSK folded for their second-lowest IPL total (97). ALSO READ | CSK vs MI: 97 all-out! MS Dhoni & Co. succumb to a new low, register their 2nd lowest IPL total In reply, Rohit & Co. were also reduced to 33 for 4 due to Mukesh Choudhary's early blows. However, a sedate 48-run fifth-wicket stand between young guns Hrithik Shoukeen-Tilak Verma steadied MI's innings as they won by five wickets. Here's the updated points table after MI eliminate CSK: ALSO READ | CSK vs MI: EXPLAINED! Here's why both teams were deprived of DRS during first 10 balls of the contest CSK and MI are now the two eliminated teams from the playoffs race as all the other seven franchises remain in contention or are close to qualifying for the next round. Gujarat Titans (GT) are the only side confirmed of a playoffs spot.

Updated IPL 2022 points table after Mumbai Indians thrash Chennai Super Kings by 5 wickets

World Rugby has confirmed Australia as host of the men`s World Cup in 2027 and the women`s in 2029 and England has been chosen to stage the 2025 women`s tournament, the governing body said on Thursday. 
The United States was confirmed as host of the men`s showpiece event in 2031 and will stage the women`s tournament two years later.

The hosts were finalised following a World Rugby Council meeting in Dublin. "This is a historic day for rugby in Australia. We are beyond thrilled to be welcoming not one, but two World Cups to our shores," Rugby Australia Chairman Hamish McLennan said.

"It`s a game-changer for rugby in this country, a once-in-a-generation opportunity to revitalise and secure the future of the sport here and see the game we all love grow and thrive for years to come." World Rugby Chairman Sir Bill Beaumont said the governing body had approved three "exceptional" World Cup host nations and that the move provided unprecedented certainty and unparalleled opportunity to accelerate the growth and impact of the sport.

"It`s great for rugby, for fans and for the host nations," Beaumont added. "Today is a landmark moment for the sport, and an exciting development for fans. I would like to congratulate everyone involved in making this dream a reality as we look to deliver a truly global sport for all."

Australia and England were earlier named "preferred candidates" while the U.S. was in dialogue with World Rugby as part of a new selection model introduced last year that aims to accelerate the growth of the sport. 
Australia will stage the men`s competition for the third time after 1987 - co-hosts with New Zealand - and 2003. England hosted the women`s event in 2010 while it will be the first World Cup on American soil. 
U.S. president Joe Biden last month backed his country`s bid, pledging to promote the sport in the country and deliver the "the most successful Rugby World Cups in history".

"USA Rugby will now venture into a new era and ensure the sport`s most treasured event is a springboard for creating lasting, sustainable enthusiasm and passion for rugby from coast to coast," USA Rugby Chief Executive Ross Young said. France is hosting the 2023 men`s World Cup and New Zealand the women`s tournament, postponed in 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, later this year.

World Rugby has confirmed Australia as host of the men`s World Cup in 2027 and the women`s in 2029 and England has been chosen to stage the 2025 women`s tournament, the governing body said on Thursday.

World Rugby has confirmed Australia as host of the men`s World Cup in 2027 and the women`s in 2029 and England has been chosen to stage the 2025 women`s tournament, the governing body said on Thursday. The United States was confirmed as host of the men`s showpiece event in 2031 and will stage the women`s tournament two years later. The hosts were finalised following a World Rugby Council meeting in Dublin. "This is a historic day for rugby in Australia. We are beyond thrilled to be welcoming not one, but two World Cups to our shores," Rugby Australia Chairman Hamish McLennan said. "It`s a game-changer for rugby in this country, a once-in-a-generation opportunity to revitalise and secure the future of the sport here and see the game we all love grow and thrive for years to come." World Rugby Chairman Sir Bill Beaumont said the governing body had approved three "exceptional" World Cup host nations and that the move provided unprecedented certainty and unparalleled opportunity to accelerate the growth and impact of the sport. "It`s great for rugby, for fans and for the host nations," Beaumont added. "Today is a landmark moment for the sport, and an exciting development for fans. I would like to congratulate everyone involved in making this dream a reality as we look to deliver a truly global sport for all." Australia and England were earlier named "preferred candidates" while the U.S. was in dialogue with World Rugby as part of a new selection model introduced last year that aims to accelerate the growth of the sport. Australia will stage the men`s competition for the third time after 1987 - co-hosts with New Zealand - and 2003. England hosted the women`s event in 2010 while it will be the first World Cup on American soil. U.S. president Joe Biden last month backed his country`s bid, pledging to promote the sport in the country and deliver the "the most successful Rugby World Cups in history". "USA Rugby will now venture into a new era and ensure the sport`s most treasured event is a springboard for creating lasting, sustainable enthusiasm and passion for rugby from coast to coast," USA Rugby Chief Executive Ross Young said. France is hosting the 2023 men`s World Cup and New Zealand the women`s tournament, postponed in 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, later this year.

World Rugby confirms Australia to host 2027 and 2029 World Cups

Ajax Amsterdam on Thursday named Alfred Schreuder as their new coach to replace Erik ten Hag who is headed to Manchester United. Ajax has signed a two-year deal with the 49-year-old Schreuder, who is on the brink of taking Club Brugge to the Belgian title.

Schreuder was an assistant to Ten Hag at Ajax for 18 months and with Ronald Koeman at Barcelona last season. He has been head coach at Twente and Bundesliga club Hoffenheim and at Brugge from January. 
They have come from behind to lead the Belgian league in the closing stages of the season and will seal the title if they win on Sunday.

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"Becoming head coach at Ajax is an honour and a great opportunity for me, which I grab with both hands. I would like to win prizes in Amsterdam with a team that plays attractive football. With a good balance between experienced top players and many great talents," he said in a statement on the Ajax website. "But first I want to finish the season successfully with Club Brugge. I will do everything I can to make that happen."

Ajax Amsterdam on Thursday named Alfred Schreuder as their new coach to replace Erik ten Hag who is headed to Manchester United. Ajax has signed a two-year deal with the 49-year-old Schreuder, who is on the brink of taking Club Brugge to the Belgian title.

Ajax Amsterdam on Thursday named Alfred Schreuder as their new coach to replace Erik ten Hag who is headed to Manchester United. Ajax has signed a two-year deal with the 49-year-old Schreuder, who is on the brink of taking Club Brugge to the Belgian title. Schreuder was an assistant to Ten Hag at Ajax for 18 months and with Ronald Koeman at Barcelona last season. He has been head coach at Twente and Bundesliga club Hoffenheim and at Brugge from January. They have come from behind to lead the Belgian league in the closing stages of the season and will seal the title if they win on Sunday. ALSO READ | From Lionel Messi to Stephen Curry: Top 5 Forbes’ richest athletes of 2022 "Becoming head coach at Ajax is an honour and a great opportunity for me, which I grab with both hands. I would like to win prizes in Amsterdam with a team that plays attractive football. With a good balance between experienced top players and many great talents," he said in a statement on the Ajax website. "But first I want to finish the season successfully with Club Brugge. I will do everything I can to make that happen."

Ajax Amsterdam announce Alfred Schreuder as new coach, to replace Manchester United-bound Erik ten Hag

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