Lionel Messi scored a hat-trick to give Argentina a 3-0 win over Bolivia in a World Cup qualifier on Thursday, lifting him above Pele as South America`s top international scorer with 79 goals. 
 
Messi got the opener after 14 minutes in Buenos Aires, dancing around the Bolivian defence before curling the ball into the net from just outside the box. 
 
He made it 2-0 in the 64th minute after working a one-two with Lautaro Martinez and displaying superb footwork in a packed penalty box, then completed the hat-trick with two minutes left, crashing home a rebound from close range. 
 
His 77th, 78th and 79th goals marked his seventh hat-trick for the national side and took him two above Pele in the South American scoring charts. 
 
“I was really anxious, and I really wanted to enjoy it," Messi said. "I’ve waited a long time for this, I went for it, and I dreamt about it. It’s a unique moment for the way it came about, after waiting so long.” 
 
On a night when Argentine fans were allowed to watch their national team for the first time since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, Messi broke down in tears as he lifted the Copa America trophy at the Monumental stadium. 
 
Argentina won the Copa America in July, their first major title in 28 years, and Messi danced with his team mates and showed off the trophy to the 21,000 supporters present. 
 
“There was no better way to celebrate than by being here,” he said. “My mum is here, my siblings are in the stands. They have suffered so much and they are here celebrating. I am very happy.” 
 
Argentina are in second place behind Brazil in the 10-team qualifying group for Qatar in 2022. The top four teams qualify automatically and the fifth-placed side goes into an inter-regional playoff. 
 
Earlier on Thursday, Miguel Borja scored two goals in two minutes to put Colombia on their way to a 3-1 victory over Chile in Barranquilla. 
 
He got the first from the penalty spot after 19 minutes and then ran through on goal a minute later to slip the ball under the keeper and make it 2-0. 
 
Jean Meneses pulled one back for Chile in the 56th minute but Luis Dias restored Colombia’s two-goal lead with 16 minutes left. 
 
Colombia are fifth in the qualifying table, tied on points with fourth-placed Ecuador, while Chile are eighth.

Lionel Messi scored a hat-trick to give Argentina a 3-0 win over Bolivia in a World Cup qualifier on Thursday, lifting him above Pele as South America`s top international scorer with 79 goals.

Lionel Messi scored a hat-trick to give Argentina a 3-0 win over Bolivia in a World Cup qualifier on Thursday, lifting him above Pele as South America`s top international scorer with 79 goals. Messi got the opener after 14 minutes in Buenos Aires, dancing around the Bolivian defence before curling the ball into the net from just outside the box. He made it 2-0 in the 64th minute after working a one-two with Lautaro Martinez and displaying superb footwork in a packed penalty box, then completed the hat-trick with two minutes left, crashing home a rebound from close range. His 77th, 78th and 79th goals marked his seventh hat-trick for the national side and took him two above Pele in the South American scoring charts. “I was really anxious, and I really wanted to enjoy it," Messi said. "I’ve waited a long time for this, I went for it, and I dreamt about it. It’s a unique moment for the way it came about, after waiting so long.” On a night when Argentine fans were allowed to watch their national team for the first time since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, Messi broke down in tears as he lifted the Copa America trophy at the Monumental stadium. Argentina won the Copa America in July, their first major title in 28 years, and Messi danced with his team mates and showed off the trophy to the 21,000 supporters present. “There was no better way to celebrate than by being here,” he said. “My mum is here, my siblings are in the stands. They have suffered so much and they are here celebrating. I am very happy.” Argentina are in second place behind Brazil in the 10-team qualifying group for Qatar in 2022. The top four teams qualify automatically and the fifth-placed side goes into an inter-regional playoff. Earlier on Thursday, Miguel Borja scored two goals in two minutes to put Colombia on their way to a 3-1 victory over Chile in Barranquilla. He got the first from the penalty spot after 19 minutes and then ran through on goal a minute later to slip the ball under the keeper and make it 2-0. Jean Meneses pulled one back for Chile in the 56th minute but Luis Dias restored Colombia’s two-goal lead with 16 minutes left. Colombia are fifth in the qualifying table, tied on points with fourth-placed Ecuador, while Chile are eighth.

Lionel Messi overtakes Pele with hat-trick as Argentina beat Bolivia

India and England will square off with each other for the fifth and final Test at Old Trafford, Manchester on Friday (September 10). After a Covid case emerged out in the Indian camp on Thursday, the fate of the final Test remained a mystery before all the Indian players tested negative in subsequent PCR results. Thus, the series decider is now set to get underway at the picturesque Old Trafford, in Manchester.&nbsp;

With India being ahead, 2-1, Virat Kohli &amp; Co. will go into the series finale with an edge over England. India will aim for a series triumph, which will be their first on English soil after 2007. Given that India have defeated Australia in their own backyard twice since 2018, a series win in England will further boost their confidence and consolidate their dominant position in Tests in recent times.

STATS

India have plenty to play for in the fifth Test. So far, both India and England have met each other on nine occasions at Old Trafford, Manchester in the purest format. To India's dismay, they are yet to win a Test at the venue as they trail England 0-4 (with 5 ending in a draw).

PITCH CONDITIONS

The pitch is expected to assist the pacers. With not a lot of sunshine over the weekend, the surface won't be conducive to spinners, as was the case in the fourth and penultimate Test at The Oval, London. Hence, India might be tempted to go ahead with the same combination, i.e. 4 pacers and a sole spinner. R Ashwin's inclusion, thus, seems unlikely.&nbsp;

WEATHER REPORT

The weather wasn't great in the run-up to the final Test. However, the sun was out and shining bright on Wednesday (September 8). According to AccuWeather, a morning shower is expected on the opening day, which will be followed by period of sunshine before another shower in the afternoon. Nonetheless, the cricket fans will get to see some action as it isn't likely to cause lengthy periods of delay.

The weather for Saturday (Day 2) isn't very encouraging at the moment. It is forecast to be cloudy with spells of shower. Day 3 and 4, i.e. often regarded as the moving days in a Test match, are expected to offer good cricketing conditions but the final day might have couple of showers throughout the day, which was also witnessed during the series opener.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/man-united-lancashire-crickets-interaction-wins-the-internet-as-manchester-is-buzzing-with-virat-kohli-cristiano-ronaldos-presence-411980">Man United-Lancashire Cricket's interaction wins the internet as Manchester is buzzing with Virat Kohli-Cristiano Ronaldo's presence</a>

PREDICTED XI:&nbsp;

India's likely XI:&nbsp;Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli (c), Ravindra Jadeja, Ajinkya Rahane, Rishabh Pant (wk), Shardul Thakur, Mohammed Shami, Umesh Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah

England's likely XI:&nbsp;Rory Burns, Haseeb Hameed, Dawid Malan, Joe Root (c), Ollie Pope, Jos Buttler (wk), Moeen Ali, Chris Woakes, Ollie Robinson, Mark Wood, James Anderson

India and England will square off with each other for the fifth and final Test at Old Trafford, Manchester on Friday (September 10). After a Covid case emerged out in the Indian camp on Thursday, the fate of the final Test remained a mystery before all the Indian players tested negative in subsequent PCR results.

India and England will square off with each other for the fifth and final Test at Old Trafford, Manchester on Friday (September 10). After a Covid case emerged out in the Indian camp on Thursday, the fate of the final Test remained a mystery before all the Indian players tested negative in subsequent PCR results. Thus, the series decider is now set to get underway at the picturesque Old Trafford, in Manchester. With India being ahead, 2-1, Virat Kohli & Co. will go into the series finale with an edge over England. India will aim for a series triumph, which will be their first on English soil after 2007. Given that India have defeated Australia in their own backyard twice since 2018, a series win in England will further boost their confidence and consolidate their dominant position in Tests in recent times. STATS India have plenty to play for in the fifth Test. So far, both India and England have met each other on nine occasions at Old Trafford, Manchester in the purest format. To India's dismay, they are yet to win a Test at the venue as they trail England 0-4 (with 5 ending in a draw). PITCH CONDITIONS The pitch is expected to assist the pacers. With not a lot of sunshine over the weekend, the surface won't be conducive to spinners, as was the case in the fourth and penultimate Test at The Oval, London. Hence, India might be tempted to go ahead with the same combination, i.e. 4 pacers and a sole spinner. R Ashwin's inclusion, thus, seems unlikely. WEATHER REPORT The weather wasn't great in the run-up to the final Test. However, the sun was out and shining bright on Wednesday (September 8). According to AccuWeather, a morning shower is expected on the opening day, which will be followed by period of sunshine before another shower in the afternoon. Nonetheless, the cricket fans will get to see some action as it isn't likely to cause lengthy periods of delay. The weather for Saturday (Day 2) isn't very encouraging at the moment. It is forecast to be cloudy with spells of shower. Day 3 and 4, i.e. often regarded as the moving days in a Test match, are expected to offer good cricketing conditions but the final day might have couple of showers throughout the day, which was also witnessed during the series opener. ALSO READ | Man United-Lancashire Cricket's interaction wins the internet as Manchester is buzzing with Virat Kohli-Cristiano Ronaldo's presence PREDICTED XI: India's likely XI: Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli (c), Ravindra Jadeja, Ajinkya Rahane, Rishabh Pant (wk), Shardul Thakur, Mohammed Shami, Umesh Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah England's likely XI: Rory Burns, Haseeb Hameed, Dawid Malan, Joe Root (c), Ollie Pope, Jos Buttler (wk), Moeen Ali, Chris Woakes, Ollie Robinson, Mark Wood, James Anderson

India vs England 2021, 5th Test: Pitch conditions at Old Trafford, Manchester weather report and stats

India and England will lock horns with each other for one final time in the 2021 English summer as the fifth and final Test commences from September 10 (Friday). With Virat Kohli-led India having an unassailable 2-1 lead in the five Tests, after a splendid 157-run win in the penultimate encounter, they will start as favourites but England's ability to bounce back cannot be ruled out as well.

The fifth and final Test was under the scanner after a Covid case emerged out from the Indian camp on Thursday (September 9). India's physio&nbsp;Vijay Parmar, as per ESPNCricinfo, had tested positive which led to the visitors' cancelling their training session and media commitments. However, with Indian players' subsequent PCR tests turning out to be negative, the fifth Test is now underway and promises to provide another blockbuster contest between two top sides.

<h2>Here's all you need to know about the fifth Test between India and England:</h2>

<h2>Where will England vs India 5th Test match be played?</h2>

The England vs India 5th Test match will be played at Old Trafford, in Manchester.

<h2>When will England vs India 5th Test match be played?</h2>

The England vs India 5th Test match will be played between September 10&nbsp;to September 14.

<h2>What time will England vs India 5th Test match begin?</h2>

The England vs India 5th Test match will begin at 3:30 PM IST.

<h2>Which TV channels will broadcast England vs India 5th Test match?</h2>

The England vs India 5th Test match will be broadcast live on Sony Sports Network.

<h2>Where to watch live streaming of England vs India 5th Test match?</h2>

The live streaming for England vs India 5th Test match will be available on Sony Liv.

For the unversed, India have never won a Test at the venue. Hence, if they win their first-ever game at Old Trafford, Manchester, Kohli &amp; Co. will create history and also win India its first-ever Test series on English soil after 2007.

India and England will lock horns with each other for one final time in the 2021 English summer as the fifth and final Test commences from September 10 (Friday).

India and England will lock horns with each other for one final time in the 2021 English summer as the fifth and final Test commences from September 10 (Friday). With Virat Kohli-led India having an unassailable 2-1 lead in the five Tests, after a splendid 157-run win in the penultimate encounter, they will start as favourites but England's ability to bounce back cannot be ruled out as well. The fifth and final Test was under the scanner after a Covid case emerged out from the Indian camp on Thursday (September 9). India's physio Vijay Parmar, as per ESPNCricinfo, had tested positive which led to the visitors' cancelling their training session and media commitments. However, with Indian players' subsequent PCR tests turning out to be negative, the fifth Test is now underway and promises to provide another blockbuster contest between two top sides. Here's all you need to know about the fifth Test between India and England: Where will England vs India 5th Test match be played? The England vs India 5th Test match will be played at Old Trafford, in Manchester. When will England vs India 5th Test match be played? The England vs India 5th Test match will be played between September 10 to September 14. What time will England vs India 5th Test match begin? The England vs India 5th Test match will begin at 3:30 PM IST. Which TV channels will broadcast England vs India 5th Test match? The England vs India 5th Test match will be broadcast live on Sony Sports Network. Where to watch live streaming of England vs India 5th Test match? The live streaming for England vs India 5th Test match will be available on Sony Liv. For the unversed, India have never won a Test at the venue. Hence, if they win their first-ever game at Old Trafford, Manchester, Kohli & Co. will create history and also win India its first-ever Test series on English soil after 2007.

India vs England 2021, 5th Test, Live Streaming: When and where to watch IND vs ENG?

Two of the biggest sports superstars of the modern- era are Virat Kohli and Cristiano Ronaldo. For the unversed, both Kohli and Ronaldo are at Manchester&nbsp;as the city cannot keep calm and is buzzing with the presence of the GOATs of their respective games.&nbsp;

To remind one and all, Ronaldo is at Manchester as he is gearing up for his second term to begin with Manchester United (in their clash versus Newcastle United on September 11) after he joined his former club in a splendid piece of summer transfer. Meanwhile, Kohli-led India will play England in the fifth and final Test at Old Trafford, Manchester from September 10 (Friday).

Interestingly, both the grounds are also situated close to each other, sending fans into a frenzy.&nbsp;On Thursday (September 8),&nbsp;Lancashire Cricket's official Twitter handle teased fans and asked them if they are interested to see a joint training session involving both Kohli and Ronaldo at the Old Trafford, Manchester. To this, Man United replied by saying, "One city, two GOATs"

Here's their fun interaction which broke the internet -

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One city, two GOATs
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) <a href="https://twitter.com/ManUtd/status/1435898429452992514?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 9, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Ronaldo joined the Red Devils after he showed his willingness to move out from Juventus, despite less than 12 months of his contract still remaining with the Italian club. He was on cards to get on board with Manchester City, United's rival, before the talks fell flat at the last moment and his former club joined the negotiations to rope him for a two-year contract. He is likely to make his second debut on September 11 (Saturday) during Man Utd's clash versus Newcastle United. If that happens, the noise that will be generated by his return for the Red Devils would surely be heard on the cricket ground, during Day 2 of the India-England Test.

Two of the biggest sports superstars of the modern- era are Virat Kohli and Cristiano Ronaldo. For the unversed, both Kohli and Ronaldo are at Manchester as the city cannot keep calm and is buzzing with the presence of the GOATs of their respective games.

Two of the biggest sports superstars of the modern- era are Virat Kohli and Cristiano Ronaldo. For the unversed, both Kohli and Ronaldo are at Manchester as the city cannot keep calm and is buzzing with the presence of the GOATs of their respective games. To remind one and all, Ronaldo is at Manchester as he is gearing up for his second term to begin with Manchester United (in their clash versus Newcastle United on September 11) after he joined his former club in a splendid piece of summer transfer. Meanwhile, Kohli-led India will play England in the fifth and final Test at Old Trafford, Manchester from September 10 (Friday). Interestingly, both the grounds are also situated close to each other, sending fans into a frenzy. On Thursday (September 8), Lancashire Cricket's official Twitter handle teased fans and asked them if they are interested to see a joint training session involving both Kohli and Ronaldo at the Old Trafford, Manchester. To this, Man United replied by saying, "One city, two GOATs" Here's their fun interaction which broke the internet - One city, two GOATs — Manchester United (@ManUtd) September 9, 2021 × Ronaldo joined the Red Devils after he showed his willingness to move out from Juventus, despite less than 12 months of his contract still remaining with the Italian club. He was on cards to get on board with Manchester City, United's rival, before the talks fell flat at the last moment and his former club joined the negotiations to rope him for a two-year contract. He is likely to make his second debut on September 11 (Saturday) during Man Utd's clash versus Newcastle United. If that happens, the noise that will be generated by his return for the Red Devils would surely be heard on the cricket ground, during Day 2 of the India-England Test.

Man United-Lancashire Cricket's interaction wins the internet as Manchester is buzzing with Virat Kohli-Cristiano Ronaldo's presence

Michael Vaughan, England's former captain, never shies away from expressing his views on the gentlemen's game. At times, he makes heads turn with his glaring remarks and did the same with his tweet slamming Indian cricket after the fifth and final Test versus England got cancelled, at Manchester, on Friday (September 10).

India and England were to take on each other in the fifth and final Test at Old Trafford, Manchester from Friday, however, the Covid cases in Indian camp meant that the visitors couldn't field a team. Hence, England Cricket Board (ECB) released an official statement saying, "Following ongoing conversations with the BCCI, the ECB can confirm that the fifth LV= Insurance Test between England and India Men due to start today at Emirates Old Trafford, will be cancelled."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fifth-test-between-india-and-england-called-off-over-covid-19-concerns-412051">Fifth Test between India and England called off over COVID-19 concerns</a>

"Due to fears of a further increase in the number of COVID cases inside the camp, India are regrettably unable to field a team," the statement added. While nothing is finalised as to when the final Test can be played, either next year when India are already scheduled to tour England for a limited-overs tour, Vaughan raised eyebrows by slamming Indian cricket for not going on with the tour.

"India have let English Cricket down !!! But England did let South African Cricket down," Vaughan wrote in a tweet.

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India have let English Cricket down !!! But England did let South African Cricket down !!!
— Michael Vaughan (@MichaelVaughan) <a href="https://twitter.com/MichaelVaughan/status/1436237962556149762?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 10, 2021</a></blockquote>
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The fifth Test could've been rescheduled by a day or two, however, that isn't possible as IPL 14's second and final leg is set to commence from September 19, not giving any window for accommodating the final Test immediately.&nbsp;

As of now, the series is 2-1 in Virat Kohli &amp; Co.'s favour after their 157-run win in the fourth and penultimate Test at The Oval, London.

Michael Vaughan, England's former captain, never shies away from expressing his views on the gentlemen's game. At times, he makes heads turn with his glaring remarks and did the same with his tweet slamming Indian cricket after the fifth and final Test versus England got cancelled, at Manchester, on Friday (September 10).

Michael Vaughan, England's former captain, never shies away from expressing his views on the gentlemen's game. At times, he makes heads turn with his glaring remarks and did the same with his tweet slamming Indian cricket after the fifth and final Test versus England got cancelled, at Manchester, on Friday (September 10). India and England were to take on each other in the fifth and final Test at Old Trafford, Manchester from Friday, however, the Covid cases in Indian camp meant that the visitors couldn't field a team. Hence, England Cricket Board (ECB) released an official statement saying, "Following ongoing conversations with the BCCI, the ECB can confirm that the fifth LV= Insurance Test between England and India Men due to start today at Emirates Old Trafford, will be cancelled." ALSO READ | Fifth Test between India and England called off over COVID-19 concerns "Due to fears of a further increase in the number of COVID cases inside the camp, India are regrettably unable to field a team," the statement added. While nothing is finalised as to when the final Test can be played, either next year when India are already scheduled to tour England for a limited-overs tour, Vaughan raised eyebrows by slamming Indian cricket for not going on with the tour. "India have let English Cricket down !!! But England did let South African Cricket down," Vaughan wrote in a tweet. India have let English Cricket down !!! But England did let South African Cricket down !!! — Michael Vaughan (@MichaelVaughan) September 10, 2021 × The fifth Test could've been rescheduled by a day or two, however, that isn't possible as IPL 14's second and final leg is set to commence from September 19, not giving any window for accommodating the final Test immediately. As of now, the series is 2-1 in Virat Kohli & Co.'s favour after their 157-run win in the fourth and penultimate Test at The Oval, London.

India have let English cricket down, says Michael Vaughan after Manchester Test called off

MS Dhoni was appointed as Team India's mentor for the T20 World Cup on Wednesday evening (September 8). Virat Kohli-led Men in Blue's 15-man squad had some surprise inclusions and notable omissions, however, the former Indian captain's return to the Indian dressing room, in a new role, created huge buzz on social media platforms.

Reacting on Dhoni's appointment and how it will benefit Team India in the marquee event, which will commence from October 19 in the UAE, former and tainted captain Salman Butt said on his Youtube channel, "MS Dhoni has dealt with pressure and is someone who has won a lot for his country. Dhoni played a major role in developing India’s current mindset. Under him, India have won the T20 World Cup and the 50-over World Cup as well. So, his presence will inspire the team a lot. When teams find themselves in difficult situations, such players can be of great help. Whoever was behind the move, it is a masterstroke."

“When an IPL match ends, we have often seen players from both sides, including seniors, gathering around him and chatting with him. Dhoni’s presence in the dressing room will definitely be a cushion for the players when they find themselves under pressure or in unknown situations.”

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-ms-dhonis-inclusion-as-mentor-is-huge-boost-to-virat-kohli-and-finishers-in-t20-world-cup-squad-manoj-tiwary-412018">EXCLUSIVE | MS Dhoni's inclusion as mentor is huge boost to Virat Kohli and finishers in T20 World Cup squad: Manoj Tiwary</a>

For records, Dhoni is the only international skipper to have won all three ICC titles. Under him, India won its only T20 WC title so far, in 2007, whereas India's last ICC trophy also came under his leadership in 2013.

The 40-year-old Dhoni's presence will surely benefit Kohli as captain as well as the spinners and lower-order batters in the showpiece event.

India are placed in Group 2, along with Pakistan, New Zealand, Afghanistan and two other teams who will join from the qualifying round.

MS Dhoni was appointed as Team India's mentor for the T20 World Cup on Wednesday evening (September 8). Virat Kohli-led Men in Blue's 15-man squad had some surprise inclusions and notable omissions, however, the former Indian captain's return to the Indian dressing room, in a new role, created huge buzz on social media platforms.

MS Dhoni was appointed as Team India's mentor for the T20 World Cup on Wednesday evening (September 8). Virat Kohli-led Men in Blue's 15-man squad had some surprise inclusions and notable omissions, however, the former Indian captain's return to the Indian dressing room, in a new role, created huge buzz on social media platforms. Reacting on Dhoni's appointment and how it will benefit Team India in the marquee event, which will commence from October 19 in the UAE, former and tainted captain Salman Butt said on his Youtube channel, "MS Dhoni has dealt with pressure and is someone who has won a lot for his country. Dhoni played a major role in developing India’s current mindset. Under him, India have won the T20 World Cup and the 50-over World Cup as well. So, his presence will inspire the team a lot. When teams find themselves in difficult situations, such players can be of great help. Whoever was behind the move, it is a masterstroke." “When an IPL match ends, we have often seen players from both sides, including seniors, gathering around him and chatting with him. Dhoni’s presence in the dressing room will definitely be a cushion for the players when they find themselves under pressure or in unknown situations.” ALSO READ | EXCLUSIVE | MS Dhoni's inclusion as mentor is huge boost to Virat Kohli and finishers in T20 World Cup squad: Manoj Tiwary For records, Dhoni is the only international skipper to have won all three ICC titles. Under him, India won its only T20 WC title so far, in 2007, whereas India's last ICC trophy also came under his leadership in 2013. The 40-year-old Dhoni's presence will surely benefit Kohli as captain as well as the spinners and lower-order batters in the showpiece event. India are placed in Group 2, along with Pakistan, New Zealand, Afghanistan and two other teams who will join from the qualifying round.

'MS Dhoni has......' - Salman Butt makes big statement lavishing former captain after his appointment as India's mentor in T20 WC

Team India players have tested negative in the PCR results and the fifth and final Test versus England will now go ahead as planned. On Thursday (September 9), the series decider came under the scanner after a Covid case emerged out in the Indian camp.&nbsp;

As per ESPNCricinfo, India's physio&nbsp;Yogesh Parmar had tested positive, which forced the Indian team to cancel the training session and also media commitments on Thursday. Following Parmar's positive result, there were speculations that the fifth and final Test will now not go on as planned, however, the scenario has changed after no further positive cases came out from the Indian camp in the PCR results.&nbsp;

For the unversed, Indian team is already short of its support staff, with head coach Ravi Shastri, bowling coach Bharat Arun and fielding coach R Sridhar being ruled out of the final Test, in Old Trafford, Manchester, following positive results during The Oval Test, London.&nbsp;

As for Parmar, he had taken over after lead physio Nitin Patel was forced to self-isolation during the fourth and penultimate&nbsp;after being identified as a close contact of Shastri.&nbsp;

India will, thus, go into the fifth and final Test as favourites with an unassailable 2-1 lead in the series, following their 157-run win at The Oval, London. The visitors also have a chance to win their first-ever Test series on English soil after 2007.

Team India players have tested negative in the PCR results and the fifth and final Test versus England will now go ahead as planned. On Thursday (September 9), the series decider came under the scanner after a Covid case emerged out in the Indian camp.

Team India players have tested negative in the PCR results and the fifth and final Test versus England will now go ahead as planned. On Thursday (September 9), the series decider came under the scanner after a Covid case emerged out in the Indian camp. As per ESPNCricinfo, India's physio Yogesh Parmar had tested positive, which forced the Indian team to cancel the training session and also media commitments on Thursday. Following Parmar's positive result, there were speculations that the fifth and final Test will now not go on as planned, however, the scenario has changed after no further positive cases came out from the Indian camp in the PCR results. For the unversed, Indian team is already short of its support staff, with head coach Ravi Shastri, bowling coach Bharat Arun and fielding coach R Sridhar being ruled out of the final Test, in Old Trafford, Manchester, following positive results during The Oval Test, London. As for Parmar, he had taken over after lead physio Nitin Patel was forced to self-isolation during the fourth and penultimate after being identified as a close contact of Shastri. India will, thus, go into the fifth and final Test as favourites with an unassailable 2-1 lead in the series, following their 157-run win at The Oval, London. The visitors also have a chance to win their first-ever Test series on English soil after 2007.

Team India players test negative in PCR results, fifth Test versus England gets green signal

On Wednesday (September 8), BCCI announced a 15-man squad for Team India's T20 World Cup, which will be held in the UAE from October 17. While there were a few notable omissions and surprise inclusions, MS Dhoni's entry as a team mentor sent&nbsp;fans into a frenzy.

Dhoni, who led India to the inaugural T20 World Cup title, retired from the gentlemen's game at the highest level on August 15, 2020. However, he remains a big name in world cricket and was added to the Indian squad to share his experience, tactical acumen and spread calmness in the team environment during the marquee event.&nbsp;

The former Indian captain has been a big name in limited-overs format. He amassed 10,773 ODI runs and 1,617 T20I runs (fourth-highest among Indians to date). While he was an integral part for his finishing and power-hitting skills, the 40-year-old was once also dropped from the T20I squad in late 2018.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ms-dhonis-appointment-is-good-news-but-sunil-gavaskar-reacts-as-former-captain-named-indias-mentor-for-t20-world-cup-411822">'MS Dhoni's appointment is good news but....' - Sunil Gavaskar reacts as former captain named India's mentor for T20 World Cup</a>

Back then, Dhoni was going through a dull phase in limited-overs and was dropped from the T20I squad in late 2018. Ahead of India's squad announcement for the West Indies home T20Is and Australia series, Dhoni was dropped from the national side. The then chief selector MSK Prasad had told the press, "He [Dhoni] is not going to play the six T20Is [West Indies and Australia] because we are looking at the second keeper's slot. So I think we will retain Rishabh [Pant] and Dinesh Karthik. So they will be getting a chance to keep and bat. It is not the end of Dhoni in T20Is."

Dhoni 2.0

Dhoni will join Team India squad after the IPL 2021 edition's conclusion, in the UAE. Having played and led India in all T20 World Cup matches to date, the former Indian captain has a new role ahead of him and will like to guide the Men in Blue to their second T20 World Cup title, in the upcoming edition, and first-ever ICC trophy since 2013.

On Wednesday (September 8), BCCI announced a 15-man squad for Team India's T20 World Cup, which will be held in the UAE from October 17. While there were a few notable omissions and surprise inclusions, MS Dhoni's entry as a team mentor sent fans into a frenzy.

On Wednesday (September 8), BCCI announced a 15-man squad for Team India's T20 World Cup, which will be held in the UAE from October 17. While there were a few notable omissions and surprise inclusions, MS Dhoni's entry as a team mentor sent fans into a frenzy. Dhoni, who led India to the inaugural T20 World Cup title, retired from the gentlemen's game at the highest level on August 15, 2020. However, he remains a big name in world cricket and was added to the Indian squad to share his experience, tactical acumen and spread calmness in the team environment during the marquee event. The former Indian captain has been a big name in limited-overs format. He amassed 10,773 ODI runs and 1,617 T20I runs (fourth-highest among Indians to date). While he was an integral part for his finishing and power-hitting skills, the 40-year-old was once also dropped from the T20I squad in late 2018. ALSO READ | 'MS Dhoni's appointment is good news but....' - Sunil Gavaskar reacts as former captain named India's mentor for T20 World Cup Back then, Dhoni was going through a dull phase in limited-overs and was dropped from the T20I squad in late 2018. Ahead of India's squad announcement for the West Indies home T20Is and Australia series, Dhoni was dropped from the national side. The then chief selector MSK Prasad had told the press, "He [Dhoni] is not going to play the six T20Is [West Indies and Australia] because we are looking at the second keeper's slot. So I think we will retain Rishabh [Pant] and Dinesh Karthik. So they will be getting a chance to keep and bat. It is not the end of Dhoni in T20Is." Dhoni 2.0 Dhoni will join Team India squad after the IPL 2021 edition's conclusion, in the UAE. Having played and led India in all T20 World Cup matches to date, the former Indian captain has a new role ahead of him and will like to guide the Men in Blue to their second T20 World Cup title, in the upcoming edition, and first-ever ICC trophy since 2013.

Throwback: Did you know? MS Dhoni was dropped from Team India's T20I squad in 2018

Team India's 15-man squad was announced on Wednesday evening (September 8) for the upcoming T20 World Cup. Virat Kohli &amp; Co. will start their campaign on October 24 versus arch-rivals Pakistan, on October 24, whereas the showpiece event will kick off from October 17 in the UAE.

Kohli-led Indian squad have a good mix of youngsters as well as experienced campaigners but the biggest surprise was the inclusion of MS Dhoni. The former Indian captain, who retired from international cricket on August 15, 2020, will act as the team's mentor for the marquee event. His calmness, experience and tactical acumen will come in handy for the Men in Blue as they gear up to win their second T20 World Cup title, and first-ever ICC trophy since 2013.

Following Dhoni's inclusion as a mentor, Little Master Sunil Gavaskar termed the appointment as 'good news' but also shared one small apprehension which the role might create. "Under his leadership, India won the 2011 World Cup and four years before that, India won the 2007 T20 World Cup. It's definitely going to benefit Team India," said Gavaskar on Aaj Tak.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/throwback-did-you-know-ms-dhoni-was-dropped-from-team-indias-t20i-squad-in-2018-411798">Throwback: Did you know? MS Dhoni was dropped from Team India's T20I squad in 2018</a>

The former Indian opener, however, took an example of when he was appointed a consultant for India in 2004. "At the time, (then-head coach) John Wright was a bit nervous, he probably thought I was going to take his place. But Ravi Shastri knows that MS Dhoni has very little interest in coaching. Ravi Shastri and MS Dhoni, if the partnership goes well, India will benefit a great deal from it," Gavaskar opined.

He further added, "But if there are disagreements over tactics and team selection, then there might be bit of an effect on the team. But MS Dhoni's appointment itself will be a big boost for Team India. He has so much experience, he knows everything. There was no bigger, destructive player than MS Dhoni when he was active in international cricket. MS Dhoni's appointment is good news for India but I am just praying there is no clash. But if Ravi Shastri and MS Dhoni can get on the same wavelength, then it's big news for India."

Dhoni has been one of the most decorated Indian cricketers ever. He amassed over 17,266 international runs, accounted for 195 stumpings, 359 sixes, 634 catches, won several games as a finisher and power-hitter and led India to all three major ICC titles. Fans are pinning hopes on the 40-year-old to contribute once again, this time as a mentor, to help India end their 8-year-long ICC title drought.

Team India's 15-man squad was announced on Wednesday evening (September 8) for the upcoming T20 World Cup. Virat Kohli & Co. will start their campaign on October 24 versus arch-rivals Pakistan, on October 24, whereas the showpiece event will kick off from October 17 in the UAE.

Team India's 15-man squad was announced on Wednesday evening (September 8) for the upcoming T20 World Cup. Virat Kohli & Co. will start their campaign on October 24 versus arch-rivals Pakistan, on October 24, whereas the showpiece event will kick off from October 17 in the UAE. Kohli-led Indian squad have a good mix of youngsters as well as experienced campaigners but the biggest surprise was the inclusion of MS Dhoni. The former Indian captain, who retired from international cricket on August 15, 2020, will act as the team's mentor for the marquee event. His calmness, experience and tactical acumen will come in handy for the Men in Blue as they gear up to win their second T20 World Cup title, and first-ever ICC trophy since 2013. Following Dhoni's inclusion as a mentor, Little Master Sunil Gavaskar termed the appointment as 'good news' but also shared one small apprehension which the role might create. "Under his leadership, India won the 2011 World Cup and four years before that, India won the 2007 T20 World Cup. It's definitely going to benefit Team India," said Gavaskar on Aaj Tak. ALSO READ | Throwback: Did you know? MS Dhoni was dropped from Team India's T20I squad in 2018 The former Indian opener, however, took an example of when he was appointed a consultant for India in 2004. "At the time, (then-head coach) John Wright was a bit nervous, he probably thought I was going to take his place. But Ravi Shastri knows that MS Dhoni has very little interest in coaching. Ravi Shastri and MS Dhoni, if the partnership goes well, India will benefit a great deal from it," Gavaskar opined. He further added, "But if there are disagreements over tactics and team selection, then there might be bit of an effect on the team. But MS Dhoni's appointment itself will be a big boost for Team India. He has so much experience, he knows everything. There was no bigger, destructive player than MS Dhoni when he was active in international cricket. MS Dhoni's appointment is good news for India but I am just praying there is no clash. But if Ravi Shastri and MS Dhoni can get on the same wavelength, then it's big news for India." Dhoni has been one of the most decorated Indian cricketers ever. He amassed over 17,266 international runs, accounted for 195 stumpings, 359 sixes, 634 catches, won several games as a finisher and power-hitter and led India to all three major ICC titles. Fans are pinning hopes on the 40-year-old to contribute once again, this time as a mentor, to help India end their 8-year-long ICC title drought.

'MS Dhoni's appointment is good news but....' - Sunil Gavaskar reacts as former captain named India's mentor for T20 World Cup

Novak Djokovic again fought back from a set down to beat Matteo Berrettini 5-7 6-2 6-2 6-3 and move into the U.S. Open semi-finals on Wednesday, the Serb now just two wins away from a 21st major that would complete a calendar-year Grand Slam. 
 
Djokovic, who also lost the opening set in his previous two matches, and Berrettini have met only three times but two were this year when the stakes were at their highest -- the Wimbledon final and French Open quarters -- with the world number one winning both times in four sets. 
 
The 25-year-old Italian had a third shot at derailing Djokovic`s Grand Slam plans on Wednesday but once again could not seize his chance, converting just one of five break opportunities, that coming in the first set. 
 
Djokovic takes another step up in class in the next round, where he faces fourth seed Alexander Zverev, the player who last month ended his bid for a `Golden Slam` by beating him in the Tokyo Olympics semi-finals. 
 
Zverev arrives at the final four as the hottest player in men`s tennis, advancing with a 7-6 (6) 6-3 6-4 win over unseeded South African Lloyd Harris to extend his winning run to 16 matches. 
&nbsp;

Novak Djokovic again fought back from a set down to beat Matteo Berrettini 5-7 6-2 6-2 6-3 and move into the U.S. Open semi-finals on Wednesday, the Serb now just two wins away from a 21st major that would complete a calendar-year Grand Slam.

Novak Djokovic again fought back from a set down to beat Matteo Berrettini 5-7 6-2 6-2 6-3 and move into the U.S. Open semi-finals on Wednesday, the Serb now just two wins away from a 21st major that would complete a calendar-year Grand Slam. Djokovic, who also lost the opening set in his previous two matches, and Berrettini have met only three times but two were this year when the stakes were at their highest -- the Wimbledon final and French Open quarters -- with the world number one winning both times in four sets. The 25-year-old Italian had a third shot at derailing Djokovic`s Grand Slam plans on Wednesday but once again could not seize his chance, converting just one of five break opportunities, that coming in the first set. Djokovic takes another step up in class in the next round, where he faces fourth seed Alexander Zverev, the player who last month ended his bid for a `Golden Slam` by beating him in the Tokyo Olympics semi-finals. Zverev arrives at the final four as the hottest player in men`s tennis, advancing with a 7-6 (6) 6-3 6-4 win over unseeded South African Lloyd Harris to extend his winning run to 16 matches.

US Open: Novak Djokovic fights back to beat Matteo Berrettini in four sets, enters semis

India's 15-man squad for the T20 World Cup got announced on Wednesday evening (September 8). BCCI Secretary Jay Shah made the announcement of the squad, which comprises several big names, some notable omissions and few surprise entries.&nbsp;

Among the surprise entries, R Ashwin's name tops the list. For the unversed, Ashwin hasn't played a limited-overs game for Team India since 2017 and, thus, his addition left many pleasantly surprised. His numbers in the T20 World Cup, coupled with his recent IPL success, tilted the equation in his favour especially after Washington Sundar's injury.

Ashwin has a total of 20 wickets in 15&nbsp;innings in T20 WCs, at a strike-rate of 16.2.&nbsp;The 34-year-old, who is currently part of the Test squad that is playing against England in ongoing five Tests, shared a motivational quote which keeps him going amid tough times and revealed how grateful he is for the opportunity presented. He wrote, “I wrote this quote down a million times in my diary before putting this up on the wall! Quotes that we read and admire have more power when we internalise them and apply in life. Happiness and gratitude are the only 2 words that define me now. "Every tunnel has light at the end of it but only those in the tunnel who believe in the light will live to see it,” read the quote in a picture shared by the experienced spinner.

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2017: I wrote this quote down a million times in my diary before putting this up on the wall! Quotes that we read and admire have more power when we internalise them and apply in life. 
 
Happiness and gratitude are the only 2 words that define me now. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/t20worldcup2021?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#t20worldcup2021</a> <a href="https://t.co/O0L3y6OBLl">pic.twitter.com/O0L3y6OBLl</a>
— Mask up and take your vaccine (@ashwinravi99) <a href="https://twitter.com/ashwinravi99/status/1435653672285966339?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 8, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Ashwin has been warming the bench in the India-England Tests so far. Encouraged with his T20 WC inclusion, he will be desperate to play in the fifth and final Test, from September 10 (Friday) at Old Trafford, Manchester.

INDIA's SQUAD:&nbsp;Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant, Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Jasprit Bumrah, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Mohammed Shami, Ravichandran Ashwin, Axar Patel, Ishan Kishan, Rahul Chahar, Varun Chakravarthy

RESERVES: Shreyas Iyer, Deepak Chahar, Shardul Thakur

India's 15-man squad for the T20 World Cup got announced on Wednesday evening (September 8). BCCI Secretary Jay Shah made the announcement of the squad, which comprises several big names, some notable omissions and few surprise entries.

India's 15-man squad for the T20 World Cup got announced on Wednesday evening (September 8). BCCI Secretary Jay Shah made the announcement of the squad, which comprises several big names, some notable omissions and few surprise entries. Among the surprise entries, R Ashwin's name tops the list. For the unversed, Ashwin hasn't played a limited-overs game for Team India since 2017 and, thus, his addition left many pleasantly surprised. His numbers in the T20 World Cup, coupled with his recent IPL success, tilted the equation in his favour especially after Washington Sundar's injury. Ashwin has a total of 20 wickets in 15 innings in T20 WCs, at a strike-rate of 16.2. The 34-year-old, who is currently part of the Test squad that is playing against England in ongoing five Tests, shared a motivational quote which keeps him going amid tough times and revealed how grateful he is for the opportunity presented. He wrote, “I wrote this quote down a million times in my diary before putting this up on the wall! Quotes that we read and admire have more power when we internalise them and apply in life. Happiness and gratitude are the only 2 words that define me now. "Every tunnel has light at the end of it but only those in the tunnel who believe in the light will live to see it,” read the quote in a picture shared by the experienced spinner. 2017: I wrote this quote down a million times in my diary before putting this up on the wall! Quotes that we read and admire have more power when we internalise them and apply in life. Happiness and gratitude are the only 2 words that define me now. #t20worldcup2021 pic.twitter.com/O0L3y6OBLl — Mask up and take your vaccine (@ashwinravi99) September 8, 2021 × Ashwin has been warming the bench in the India-England Tests so far. Encouraged with his T20 WC inclusion, he will be desperate to play in the fifth and final Test, from September 10 (Friday) at Old Trafford, Manchester. INDIA's SQUAD: Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant, Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Jasprit Bumrah, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Mohammed Shami, Ravichandran Ashwin, Axar Patel, Ishan Kishan, Rahul Chahar, Varun Chakravarthy RESERVES: Shreyas Iyer, Deepak Chahar, Shardul Thakur

R Ashwin reacts after being named in India's T20 World Cup squad, shares motivational quote which keeps him going

Germany`s World No. 4 Alexander Zverev won his 16th consecutive match of the year as he stormed into the semi-finals of the US Open, beating Lloyd Harris of South Africa in straight sets on Wednesday. 
 
The fourth seed, who is on a winning streak since the start of the Tokyo Olympics in July, raced past Harris, 7-6(6), 6-3, 6-4 at the Flushing Meadows here. Zverev hit 43 winners and broke service four times to make back-to-back semis in New York. 
 
"He was serving incredible, in the first set especially. I mean, I didn`t have a lot of chances on his serve and somehow managed to win that first set, loosened me up a little bit and started playing a lot better," Zverev, the Tokyo Olympics and Cincinnati champion, said after the match. 
 
"In the third set, he started swinging. He started playing incredible tennis. Yeah, I`m happy to be through in three (sets)." Zverev`s aggressive, flat returning, and heavy forehands forced Harris to play deeper behind the baseline that he prefers and limited the South`African`s ability to dictate play. The German also continued his strong serving performance this tournament, closing out the match with a 136 mph ace, his 21st of the match. 
 
Zverev next faces the winner of the match between sixth seed Matteo Berrettini of Italy and world No. 1 Novak Djokovic, who close the evening session in Arthur Ashe Stadium. Zverev beat Djokovic en route to his gold medal run at the Tokyo Olympics, where his streak began. 
 
"I hope it goes for eight hours and 30 minutes," Zverev said. 
 
Harris was playing in his first major quarter-final and making his debut at the Arthur Ashe Stadium. But t`e moment didn`t overwhelm him. 
 
The 24-year-old broke first to give himself a chance to serve out the first set at 5-3. Zverev broke back but Harris had a set point at 6/5 in the tie-break. But Zverev saved it and then won the opening set with a service winner. 
 
From there, World No. 46 Harris never recovered. The baseline rallies he was winning st`rted going Zverev`s way, and the German rode the momentum. 
 
Looking to join Andy Murray (2012) as the only man to win the Olympics and US Open in the same year, Zverev broke early in the second set and again in`the third as Harris` forehand abandoned him. The South African finished with 26 unforced errors, 16 from his forehand. 
 
The 24-year-old German will be happy to advance but less pleased with how he closed out the match. Serving at 4-1, 40/0 in the third set, Zverev produced a string of errors to drop serve and was also pushed to deuce in his next service game, escaping with a pair of aces to restore order at 5-3. 
 
However, Zverev closed it out with his 20th ace after just over two hours of play. "I had my opportunities. Didn`t exactly go my way," Harris said. "Nonetheless, still a lot of positives to take from the week." 
 
Indeed, the South African had a lot in the week to look back on fondly as he gets back to the ATP Tour with confidence, having played his first quarter-final here. He can actually look back at the entire season with satisfaction as he has 24 match wins so far, including a victory over Rafael Nadal at the Citi Open in Washington, D.C. during the US Open series. 
&nbsp;

Germany`s World No. 4 Alexander Zverev won his 16th consecutive match of the year as he stormed into the semi-finals of the US Open, beating Lloyd Harris of South Africa in straight sets on Wednesday.

Germany`s World No. 4 Alexander Zverev won his 16th consecutive match of the year as he stormed into the semi-finals of the US Open, beating Lloyd Harris of South Africa in straight sets on Wednesday. The fourth seed, who is on a winning streak since the start of the Tokyo Olympics in July, raced past Harris, 7-6(6), 6-3, 6-4 at the Flushing Meadows here. Zverev hit 43 winners and broke service four times to make back-to-back semis in New York. "He was serving incredible, in the first set especially. I mean, I didn`t have a lot of chances on his serve and somehow managed to win that first set, loosened me up a little bit and started playing a lot better," Zverev, the Tokyo Olympics and Cincinnati champion, said after the match. "In the third set, he started swinging. He started playing incredible tennis. Yeah, I`m happy to be through in three (sets)." Zverev`s aggressive, flat returning, and heavy forehands forced Harris to play deeper behind the baseline that he prefers and limited the South`African`s ability to dictate play. The German also continued his strong serving performance this tournament, closing out the match with a 136 mph ace, his 21st of the match. Zverev next faces the winner of the match between sixth seed Matteo Berrettini of Italy and world No. 1 Novak Djokovic, who close the evening session in Arthur Ashe Stadium. Zverev beat Djokovic en route to his gold medal run at the Tokyo Olympics, where his streak began. "I hope it goes for eight hours and 30 minutes," Zverev said. Harris was playing in his first major quarter-final and making his debut at the Arthur Ashe Stadium. But t`e moment didn`t overwhelm him. The 24-year-old broke first to give himself a chance to serve out the first set at 5-3. Zverev broke back but Harris had a set point at 6/5 in the tie-break. But Zverev saved it and then won the opening set with a service winner. From there, World No. 46 Harris never recovered. The baseline rallies he was winning st`rted going Zverev`s way, and the German rode the momentum. Looking to join Andy Murray (2012) as the only man to win the Olympics and US Open in the same year, Zverev broke early in the second set and again in`the third as Harris` forehand abandoned him. The South African finished with 26 unforced errors, 16 from his forehand. The 24-year-old German will be happy to advance but less pleased with how he closed out the match. Serving at 4-1, 40/0 in the third set, Zverev produced a string of errors to drop serve and was also pushed to deuce in his next service game, escaping with a pair of aces to restore order at 5-3. However, Zverev closed it out with his 20th ace after just over two hours of play. "I had my opportunities. Didn`t exactly go my way," Harris said. "Nonetheless, still a lot of positives to take from the week." Indeed, the South African had a lot in the week to look back on fondly as he gets back to the ATP Tour with confidence, having played his first quarter-final here. He can actually look back at the entire season with satisfaction as he has 24 match wins so far, including a victory over Rafael Nadal at the Citi Open in Washington, D.C. during the US Open series.

US Open: Alexander Zverev storms into semis with 16th win in a row

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