<p>With less than seven months to go for the World Test Championship (WTC), the race to play at Lord’s in the summit clash has heated up with recent wins for Australia and South Africa. With India losing their grip in the race for the top two in the standings, Temba Bavmua’s South Africa and Pat Cummins’ Australia are in pole position to reach the final. So with limited matches to go, here are all the permutations for all teams to qualify for the WTC final.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">South Africa on 🔝<br />
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The Proteas displace Australia at the summit of the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WTC25?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WTC25</a> standings after <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SAvSL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SAvSL</a> series sweep 👊<br />
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Latest state of play 👉 <a href="https://t.co/1TUUJ5ThVs">https://t.co/1TUUJ5ThVs</a> <a href="https://t.co/bXizReyaAu">pic.twitter.com/bXizReyaAu</a></p>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1866098157538381876?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 9, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>1. India</strong></h2>

<p><strong>P 16 | W 9 | D 1 | L 6 | Pen -2 | Points 110 | PCT% 57.29</strong></p>

<p><strong>Remaining Tests:&nbsp;Three v Australia (away)</strong></p>

<p><strong>Form guide:&nbsp;L&nbsp;W&nbsp;L L L W&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>With just three matches to go, India’s chances of reaching a third successive WTC final now hang in balance after defeats to New Zealand and Australia in the Adelaide Test. India’s best chance of reaching the WTC final is if they win all three remaining Border-Gavaskar trophy matches and pocket the series 4-1. However, any other result will see them at the mercy of other teams dropping points, meaning India will have to depend on other teams and results.</p>

<h2><strong>2. Australia</strong></h2>

<p><strong>P 14 | W 9 | D 1 | L 4 | Pen -10 | Points 102 | PCT% 60.71</strong></p>

<p><strong>Remaining Tests:&nbsp;Three v India (home), two v Sri Lanka (away)</strong></p>

<p><strong>Form guide:&nbsp;W&nbsp;L W W L W&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>With five matches still to go in the WTC cycle and three on home turf, Australia will fancy their chances of reaching the final. If they lose the current BGT series by 4-1 they will have to depend on other teams to make the summit clash. However, a 4-1 series win should see them reach the final while a 3-1 or 2-1 series win coupled with a win in Sri Lanka will see them qualify.</p>

<p>The only way Australia miss out on the final is if they fail to win two or fewer matches while other teams get maximum points.</p>

<h2><strong>3. South Africa</strong></h2>

<p><strong>P 10 | W 6 | D 1 | L 3 | Pen 0 | Points 76 | PCT% 63.33</strong></p>

<p><strong>Remaining Tests:&nbsp;Two v Pakistan (home)</strong></p>

<p><strong>Form guide (most recent first):&nbsp;W W W W W D&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>South Africa were fifth before the first Test series against Sri Lanka but have jumped up to the top spot following two very impressive wins at home. A single victory in either of their two remaining Tests at home against Pakistan will secure them the spot in the WTC Final for the first time.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-2024-25-doesnt-deserve-kapil-dev-on-jasprit-bumrah-replacing-rohit-sharma-as-india-test-skipper-782768">BGT 2024-25: 'Doesn't deserve...,' Kapil Dev on Jasprit Bumrah replacing Rohit Sharma as India Test skipper</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>4. Sri Lanka</strong></h2>

<p><strong>P 11 | W 5 | D 0 | L 6 | Pen 0 | Points 60 | PCT% 45.45</strong></p>

<p><strong>Remaining Tests:&nbsp;Two v Australia (home)</strong></p>

<p><strong>Form guide:&nbsp;L L W W W L&nbsp;&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Sri Lanka's 0-2 loss to South Africa isn't the end of the world for the plucky Lankans. But, they'll need a massive favour from Pakistan to make it happen. If Pakistan win both Tests against South Africa, and then Sri Lanka defeat Australia 2-0 at home, SL would go through regardless of the result of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.&nbsp;</p>


With less than seven months to go for the World Test Championship (WTC), the race to play at Lord’s in the summit clash has heated up with recent wins for Australia and South Africa.

With less than seven months to go for the World Test Championship (WTC), the race to play at Lord’s in the summit clash has heated up with recent wins for Australia and South Africa. With India losing their grip in the race for the top two in the standings, Temba Bavmua’s South Africa and Pat Cummins’ Australia are in pole position to reach the final. So with limited matches to go, here are all the permutations for all teams to qualify for the WTC final. South Africa on 🔝 The Proteas displace Australia at the summit of the #WTC25 standings after #SAvSL series sweep 👊 Latest state of play 👉 https://t.co/1TUUJ5ThVs pic.twitter.com/bXizReyaAu — ICC (@ICC) December 9, 2024 × 1. India P 16 | W 9 | D 1 | L 6 | Pen -2 | Points 110 | PCT% 57.29 Remaining Tests: Three v Australia (away) Form guide: L W L L L W With just three matches to go, India’s chances of reaching a third successive WTC final now hang in balance after defeats to New Zealand and Australia in the Adelaide Test. India’s best chance of reaching the WTC final is if they win all three remaining Border-Gavaskar trophy matches and pocket the series 4-1. However, any other result will see them at the mercy of other teams dropping points, meaning India will have to depend on other teams and results. 2. Australia P 14 | W 9 | D 1 | L 4 | Pen -10 | Points 102 | PCT% 60.71 Remaining Tests: Three v India (home), two v Sri Lanka (away) Form guide: W L W W L W With five matches still to go in the WTC cycle and three on home turf, Australia will fancy their chances of reaching the final. If they lose the current BGT series by 4-1 they will have to depend on other teams to make the summit clash. However, a 4-1 series win should see them reach the final while a 3-1 or 2-1 series win coupled with a win in Sri Lanka will see them qualify. The only way Australia miss out on the final is if they fail to win two or fewer matches while other teams get maximum points. 3. South Africa P 10 | W 6 | D 1 | L 3 | Pen 0 | Points 76 | PCT% 63.33 Remaining Tests: Two v Pakistan (home) Form guide (most recent first): W W W W W D South Africa were fifth before the first Test series against Sri Lanka but have jumped up to the top spot following two very impressive wins at home. A single victory in either of their two remaining Tests at home against Pakistan will secure them the spot in the WTC Final for the first time. ALSO READ | BGT 2024-25: 'Doesn't deserve...,' Kapil Dev on Jasprit Bumrah replacing Rohit Sharma as India Test skipper 4. Sri Lanka P 11 | W 5 | D 0 | L 6 | Pen 0 | Points 60 | PCT% 45.45 Remaining Tests: Two v Australia (home) Form guide: L L W W W L Sri Lanka's 0-2 loss to South Africa isn't the end of the world for the plucky Lankans. But, they'll need a massive favour from Pakistan to make it happen. If Pakistan win both Tests against South Africa, and then Sri Lanka defeat Australia 2-0 at home, SL would go through regardless of the result of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.

Here's how India, Australia and other teams can reach World Test Championship final

BGT 2024-25: Travis Head’s Best Innings vs India (Overall)

BGT 2024-25: Travis Head’s Best Innings vs India ft 137 in ODI World Cup final

BGT 2024-25: Travis Head’s Best Test Innings

BGT 2024-25: Travis Head’s Best Test Innings ft 140 vs India in Border-Gavaskar Trophy

<p>Steve Smith continued with his poor form in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) after he was scalped by Jasprit Bumrah in the first session of Day 2 in the ongoing pink-ball Test in Adelaide. Playing on Saturday (Dec 7) at the Adelaide Oval, Bumrah got the better of Smith for the second time in the series, this time via a brilliant catch from wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant. The former Australia skipper had earlier been dismissed for a golden duck by Bumrah in the first innings of the Perth Test.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Steve Smith is finished<br />
<a href="https://t.co/liR6iHrB2k">pic.twitter.com/liR6iHrB2k</a></p>
— Sagar Mhatre (@MhatreGang) <a href="https://twitter.com/MhatreGang/status/1865258373593350182?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 7, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>Bumrah stuns Smith</strong></h2>

<p>On the first ball of the 41st over that was going down the leg was nicked by Smith as it made its path away from the wicketkeeper. However, Pant dived superbly on his left to clutch Smith and get the better of him. The 35-year-old lasted for only 11 balls before he was sent packing home, having scored only two runs. The Aussie star also became the Indian vice-captain’s third wicket of the innings and he pushed for a comeback.</p>

<p>At the time of writing, Australia were 168/4 with Marnus Labuschagne top-scoring with 64. He was dismissed by Nitish Reddy with Yashasvi Jaiswal taking a superb catch at the gully. Australia trailed by 12 runs with Travis Head (32) and Mitchell March (0) in the middle.</p>

<p>Australia had earlier started the day from 86/1 as they lost Nathan McSweeney (39) shortly after the start.</p>

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<h2><strong>Can India mount a comeback?</strong></h2>

<p>With Australia destined to take the first innings lead, India will need a healthy contribution from their batters if they are to mount a comeback. Considering India’s recent batting woes, batters like Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma and others will need to come good. The team will also rely heavily on the services of Jaiswal and KL Rahul who impressed in the second innings of the Perth Test.</p>


Steve Smith continued with his poor form in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) after he was scalped by Jasprit Bumrah in the first session of Day 2 in the ongoing pink-ball Test in Adelaide.

Steve Smith continued with his poor form in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) after he was scalped by Jasprit Bumrah in the first session of Day 2 in the ongoing pink-ball Test in Adelaide. Playing on Saturday (Dec 7) at the Adelaide Oval, Bumrah got the better of Smith for the second time in the series, this time via a brilliant catch from wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant. The former Australia skipper had earlier been dismissed for a golden duck by Bumrah in the first innings of the Perth Test. Steve Smith is finished pic.twitter.com/liR6iHrB2k — Sagar Mhatre (@MhatreGang) December 7, 2024 × Bumrah stuns Smith On the first ball of the 41st over that was going down the leg was nicked by Smith as it made its path away from the wicketkeeper. However, Pant dived superbly on his left to clutch Smith and get the better of him. The 35-year-old lasted for only 11 balls before he was sent packing home, having scored only two runs. The Aussie star also became the Indian vice-captain’s third wicket of the innings and he pushed for a comeback. At the time of writing, Australia were 168/4 with Marnus Labuschagne top-scoring with 64. He was dismissed by Nitish Reddy with Yashasvi Jaiswal taking a superb catch at the gully. Australia trailed by 12 runs with Travis Head (32) and Mitchell March (0) in the middle. Australia had earlier started the day from 86/1 as they lost Nathan McSweeney (39) shortly after the start. ALSO READ | Lionel Messi named MLS Most Valuable Player after record-setting season Can India mount a comeback? With Australia destined to take the first innings lead, India will need a healthy contribution from their batters if they are to mount a comeback. Considering India’s recent batting woes, batters like Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma and others will need to come good. The team will also rely heavily on the services of Jaiswal and KL Rahul who impressed in the second innings of the Perth Test.

BGT 2024/25: Jasprit Bumrah stuns Steve Smith yet again as Rishabh Pant clutches brilliant catch - WATCH

<p>Ruben Amorim has described Manchester United as a ‘massive club but not a massive team’ as the side goes through a period of transition. Speaking on Friday (Dec 6) ahead of Nottingham Forest’s visit to Old Trafford, Amorim said his side is in a difficult position and will need to regroup to win big trophies in the future. United will start the Premier League weekend in 13th place, having only mustered 19 points from 14 matches so far in the season.</p>

<h2><strong>Amorim describes Manchester United’s case</strong></h2>

<p>"We're a massive club but we're not a massive team and we know it so it is no problem to say it," Amorim told a news conference on Friday.</p>

<p>"Our players have to understand that it's a challenging position. We're not one of the best teams in the league and we have to say and think that clearly but our past, our club is maybe the best one in the league.”</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/football/lionel-messi-named-mls-most-valuable-player-after-record-setting-season-782159">Lionel Messi named MLS Most Valuable Player after record-setting season</a></strong></p>

<p>In October, the Red Devils sacked FA Cup-winning coach Erik ten Hag after a poor start to the season. He was replaced by Ruud van Nistelrooy on an interim basis before Amorim’s arrival as permanent head coach. The Portuguese gaffer suffered his first defeat of the season on Wednesday after a 2-0 defeat to Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium.</p>

<p>It was also his first defeat of the season as manager, having gone unbeaten during his spell at Sporting Lisbon.</p>

<p>With Forest enjoying a stellar 2024-25 season, Saturday's late kick-off won’t be an easy ride for the Old Trafford outfit. Nuno Espirito Santo’s side is on 22 points in the seventh place, but a win for United will see them go level on points with the former European champions. In positive news for the Amorim’s side, summer signing Leny Yoro is set to be available having missed the start of the season due to an injury.</p>


Ruben Amorim has described Manchester United as a ‘massive club but not a massive team’ as the side goes through a period of transition. Speaking on Friday (Dec 6) ahead of Nottingham Forest’s visit to Old Trafford, Amorim said his side is in a difficult position and will need to regroup to win big trophies in the future.

Ruben Amorim has described Manchester United as a ‘massive club but not a massive team’ as the side goes through a period of transition. Speaking on Friday (Dec 6) ahead of Nottingham Forest’s visit to Old Trafford, Amorim said his side is in a difficult position and will need to regroup to win big trophies in the future. United will start the Premier League weekend in 13th place, having only mustered 19 points from 14 matches so far in the season. Amorim describes Manchester United’s case "We're a massive club but we're not a massive team and we know it so it is no problem to say it," Amorim told a news conference on Friday. "Our players have to understand that it's a challenging position. We're not one of the best teams in the league and we have to say and think that clearly but our past, our club is maybe the best one in the league.” ALSO READ | Lionel Messi named MLS Most Valuable Player after record-setting season In October, the Red Devils sacked FA Cup-winning coach Erik ten Hag after a poor start to the season. He was replaced by Ruud van Nistelrooy on an interim basis before Amorim’s arrival as permanent head coach. The Portuguese gaffer suffered his first defeat of the season on Wednesday after a 2-0 defeat to Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium. It was also his first defeat of the season as manager, having gone unbeaten during his spell at Sporting Lisbon. With Forest enjoying a stellar 2024-25 season, Saturday's late kick-off won’t be an easy ride for the Old Trafford outfit. Nuno Espirito Santo’s side is on 22 points in the seventh place, but a win for United will see them go level on points with the former European champions. In positive news for the Amorim’s side, summer signing Leny Yoro is set to be available having missed the start of the season due to an injury.

Premier League: Ruben Amorim describes Man Utd's situation ahead of Forest visit, says 'massive club but...'

<p>England are in pole position to win the second Test match against New Zealand after an all-round performance at the Basin Reserve in Wellington on Saturday (Dec 7). The dominant show was capped off by a brilliant bowling spell as Gus Atkinson became the 15th English bowler to scalp a Test career hat-trick. He was seen ecstatic after the moment and cartwheeled away in celebration as fans enjoyed the classic moment with the red ball.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Good morning, everyone <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NZvENG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NZvENG</a><br />
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Gus Atkinson hat-trick <a href="https://t.co/Xxnvx38Esv">pic.twitter.com/Xxnvx38Esv</a></p>
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<h2><strong>Atkinson gets maiden career hat-trick</strong></h2>

<p>Having started the day at 86/5 in their first innings, the hosts New Zealand struggled to find their rhythm in the opening session of Day 2. New Zealand were soon reduced to 97/7 after the start of Day 2, with Brydon Carse leading the bowling onslaught. However, it was the 26-year-old Atkinson who caught the eye in the 35th over of New Zealand’s innings with flawless display.</p>

<p>On the third ball of the 35th over, Nathan Smith was bowled on 14 followed by Matt Henry’s wicket,&nbsp;caught by Ben Duckett. On a hat-trick on the fifth ball of the over, former New Zealand skipper Tim Southee was Atkinson’s cherry on&nbsp;top after he was dismissed lbw. While Southee took a review to challenge the lbw call, third umpire Ahsan Raza stood with the on-field call as Atkinson’s hat-trick was confirmed.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/football/lionel-messi-named-mls-most-valuable-player-after-record-setting-season-782159">Lionel Messi named MLS Most Valuable Player after record-setting season</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>England on the brink of win</strong></h2>

<p>At the time of writing, visitors England were 266/3 and led by an impressive 421 runs to stamp their authority on the contest.</p>

<p>First innings centurion Harry Brook (37) and Joe Root (31) were in the middle and were on their way to a mammoth second innings lead.</p>

<p>With New Zealand struggling with the bat, Ben Stokes and Co will be the hot favourites to win the match while a defeat will all but end the host's chances of reaching the World Test Championship (WTC) final at Lord’s in June 2025.</p>


England are in pole position to win the second Test match against New Zealand after an all-round performance at the Basin Reserve in Wellington on Saturday (Dec 7).

England are in pole position to win the second Test match against New Zealand after an all-round performance at the Basin Reserve in Wellington on Saturday (Dec 7). The dominant show was capped off by a brilliant bowling spell as Gus Atkinson became the 15th English bowler to scalp a Test career hat-trick. He was seen ecstatic after the moment and cartwheeled away in celebration as fans enjoyed the classic moment with the red ball. Good morning, everyone #NZvENG Gus Atkinson hat-trick pic.twitter.com/Xxnvx38Esv — Marc Van de Velde (@MarcFVandeVelde) December 6, 2024 × Atkinson gets maiden career hat-trick Having started the day at 86/5 in their first innings, the hosts New Zealand struggled to find their rhythm in the opening session of Day 2. New Zealand were soon reduced to 97/7 after the start of Day 2, with Brydon Carse leading the bowling onslaught. However, it was the 26-year-old Atkinson who caught the eye in the 35th over of New Zealand’s innings with flawless display. On the third ball of the 35th over, Nathan Smith was bowled on 14 followed by Matt Henry’s wicket, caught by Ben Duckett. On a hat-trick on the fifth ball of the over, former New Zealand skipper Tim Southee was Atkinson’s cherry on top after he was dismissed lbw. While Southee took a review to challenge the lbw call, third umpire Ahsan Raza stood with the on-field call as Atkinson’s hat-trick was confirmed. ALSO READ | Lionel Messi named MLS Most Valuable Player after record-setting season England on the brink of win At the time of writing, visitors England were 266/3 and led by an impressive 421 runs to stamp their authority on the contest. First innings centurion Harry Brook (37) and Joe Root (31) were in the middle and were on their way to a mammoth second innings lead. With New Zealand struggling with the bat, Ben Stokes and Co will be the hot favourites to win the match while a defeat will all but end the host's chances of reaching the World Test Championship (WTC) final at Lord’s in June 2025.

NZ vs ENG, 2nd Test: Gus Atkinson cartwheels in celebration after completing first career hat-trick - WATCH

<p>The NFL has ended it's review of sexual assault allegations against Cleveland Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson in September, saying there was insufficient evidence that he violated league rules, US media reported Friday.</p>

<p>The NFL launched an investigation in September after a lawsuit filed in Texas alleged that Watson sexually assaulted a woman at her apartment in October of 2020.</p>

<p>Watson "strongly denied" the allegation in a statement issued by his attorney, but the league began a review to see if he had violated the NFL personal conduct policy.</p>

<p>The legal case has since reportedly been settled.</p>

<p>"There was insufficient evidence to support a finding of a violation of the personal conduct policy," an NFL spokesman told Cleveland television station WOIO.</p>

<p>Watson sat out the 2021 season and was suspended 11 games of the 2022 campaign after more than two dozen women accused him of sexual assault and inappropriate conduct during massage sessions.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/neuer-gnabry-joins-bayern-munichs-extended-injury-list-as-kompany-dicey-over-final-xi-against-heidenheim-782099">Neuer, Gnabry join Bayern Munich’s extended injury list as Kompany dicey over final XI against Heidenheim</a></strong></p>

<p>Watson reached settlements with 23 of the women accusing him and no criminal charges were ever brought against him.</p>

<p>The 29-year-old, in the third season of a five-year contract worth $230 million with the Browns, ruptured his right Achilles tendon in October to end his 2024 season.</p>

<p>He started only six games during an injury-plagued 2023 campaign.</p>

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The NFL has ended it's review of sexual assault allegations against Cleveland Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson in September, saying there was insufficient evidence that he violated league rules, US media reported Friday.

The NFL has ended it's review of sexual assault allegations against Cleveland Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson in September, saying there was insufficient evidence that he violated league rules, US media reported Friday. The NFL launched an investigation in September after a lawsuit filed in Texas alleged that Watson sexually assaulted a woman at her apartment in October of 2020. Watson "strongly denied" the allegation in a statement issued by his attorney, but the league began a review to see if he had violated the NFL personal conduct policy. The legal case has since reportedly been settled. "There was insufficient evidence to support a finding of a violation of the personal conduct policy," an NFL spokesman told Cleveland television station WOIO. Watson sat out the 2021 season and was suspended 11 games of the 2022 campaign after more than two dozen women accused him of sexual assault and inappropriate conduct during massage sessions. ALSO READ | Neuer, Gnabry join Bayern Munich’s extended injury list as Kompany dicey over final XI against Heidenheim Watson reached settlements with 23 of the women accusing him and no criminal charges were ever brought against him. The 29-year-old, in the third season of a five-year contract worth $230 million with the Browns, ruptured his right Achilles tendon in October to end his 2024 season. He started only six games during an injury-plagued 2023 campaign. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

NFL ends probe of latest sex assault allegation against Cleveland Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson

<p>Inter Milan moved a point behind Serie A leaders Napoli on Friday after seeing off Parma 3-1 at the San Siro ahead of a key Champions League clash at Bayer Leverkusen.</p>

<p>Brilliantly taken goals either side of half-time from Italian internationals Federico Dimarco and Nicolo Barella and Marcus Thuram's neat volley in the 67th minute were enough for the reigning champions to close in on Napoli.</p>

<p>Simone Inzaghi's Inter are also level on 31 points with second-placed Atalanta, who could claim the provisional league lead with a win over AC Milan later on Friday.</p>

<p>Napoli host Lazio on Sunday night after being dumped out of the Italian Cup by their capital city opponents on Thursday.</p>

<p>"We scored some great goals today... The only disappointing thing is that we conceded. We didn't deserve to given how we played over the 94 minutes," said Inzaghi to DAZN.</p>

<p>Inter are unbeaten in 14 matches in all competitions and travel to Leverkusen on Tuesday knowing that a win would almost certainly ensure direct qualification to the last 16 with two matches remaining.</p>

<p>Parma, who netted through a late Matteo Darmian own goal, sit 12th in Serie A, but Inzaghi still picked his best available XI even with a big European fixture around the corner, selecting captain and star striker Lautaro Martinez for his 300th Inter appearance.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/neuer-gnabry-joins-bayern-munichs-extended-injury-list-as-kompany-dicey-over-final-xi-against-heidenheim-782099">Neuer, Gnabry join Bayern Munich’s extended injury list as Kompany dicey over final XI against Heidenheim</a></strong></p>

<p>Martinez has struggled for form this season and as well as having a first half strike rightly ruled out for offside the Argentina forward also wasted three good opportunities to score.</p>

<p>The 27-year-old had his head in his hands when he poked wide a great chance one-on-one with Parma goalkeeper Zion Suzuki, six minutes after Thuram lashed home his 10th league goal of the season.</p>

<p>France attacker Thuram was born in Parma where his father Lilian played for five seasons, winning the UEFA Cup and Italian Cup in 1999 as part of a star-studded outfit which also featured Italian icons Gianluigi Buffon and Fabio Cannavaro.</p>

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer:</strong>&nbsp;This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.</em></p>


Inter Milan moved a point behind Serie A leaders Napoli on Friday after seeing off Parma 3-1 at the San Siro ahead of a key Champions League clash at Bayer Leverkusen.

Inter Milan moved a point behind Serie A leaders Napoli on Friday after seeing off Parma 3-1 at the San Siro ahead of a key Champions League clash at Bayer Leverkusen. Brilliantly taken goals either side of half-time from Italian internationals Federico Dimarco and Nicolo Barella and Marcus Thuram's neat volley in the 67th minute were enough for the reigning champions to close in on Napoli. Simone Inzaghi's Inter are also level on 31 points with second-placed Atalanta, who could claim the provisional league lead with a win over AC Milan later on Friday. Napoli host Lazio on Sunday night after being dumped out of the Italian Cup by their capital city opponents on Thursday. "We scored some great goals today... The only disappointing thing is that we conceded. We didn't deserve to given how we played over the 94 minutes," said Inzaghi to DAZN. Inter are unbeaten in 14 matches in all competitions and travel to Leverkusen on Tuesday knowing that a win would almost certainly ensure direct qualification to the last 16 with two matches remaining. Parma, who netted through a late Matteo Darmian own goal, sit 12th in Serie A, but Inzaghi still picked his best available XI even with a big European fixture around the corner, selecting captain and star striker Lautaro Martinez for his 300th Inter appearance. ALSO READ | Neuer, Gnabry join Bayern Munich’s extended injury list as Kompany dicey over final XI against Heidenheim Martinez has struggled for form this season and as well as having a first half strike rightly ruled out for offside the Argentina forward also wasted three good opportunities to score. The 27-year-old had his head in his hands when he poked wide a great chance one-on-one with Parma goalkeeper Zion Suzuki, six minutes after Thuram lashed home his 10th league goal of the season. France attacker Thuram was born in Parma where his father Lilian played for five seasons, winning the UEFA Cup and Italian Cup in 1999 as part of a star-studded outfit which also featured Italian icons Gianluigi Buffon and Fabio Cannavaro. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Nicolo Barella inspired Inter Milan beat Parma to close in on Serie A leaders Napoli

<p>Lionel Messi was named Major League Soccer's Most Valuable Player on Friday after leading Inter Miami to a record-breaking regular season campaign.</p>

<p>The Argentine superstar was handed the accolade after his performances helped Miami to a record regular season points tally, earning the club its first ever Supporters Shield.</p>

<p>The 37-year-old maestro finished the regular season with a league-leading 36 goal contributions after netting 20 goals and 16 assists.</p>

<p>Messi's MVP award comes despite an injury-hit campaign in which he made only 19 appearances.</p>

<p>Miami and Messi's season ultimately fizzled out, when the team suffered a shock first-round defeat in the MLS Cup playoffs.</p>

<p>Messi is the 10th South American to win the MVP, and the fifth from Argentina after Luciano Acosta, Diego Valeri, Guillermo Barros Schelotto, and Christian Gomez.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Messi was presented with the award in a ceremony at Inter's Chase Stadium in Fort Lauderdale alongside Miami Academy players.</p>

<p>"Truly, it is an honor for me to receive this award from all of you," Messi told the Academy players in a video posted on the team's website.</p>

<p>"It's a source of pride to watch you all train. I'm very happy to be here every day.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/neuer-gnabry-joins-bayern-munichs-extended-injury-list-as-kompany-dicey-over-final-xi-against-heidenheim-782099">Neuer, Gnabry join Bayern Munich’s extended injury list as Kompany dicey over final XI against Heidenheim</a></strong></p>

<p>"I'm happy to be in this city, in this club that is growing ... I invite you to keep fighting and striving for your dreams."</p>

<p>MLS commissioner Don Garber said Messi brought an unprecedented touch of football stardom to the league, which will conclude its season on Saturday with the MLS Cup final between LA Galaxy and New York Red Bulls in Los Angeles.</p>

<p>"To have the best player in the world be the best player in Major League Soccer is something that dreams are made of for all of us," Garber said.</p>

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer:</strong>&nbsp;This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.</em></p>


Lionel Messi was named Major League Soccer's Most Valuable Player on Friday after leading Inter Miami to a record-breaking regular season campaign. The Argentine superstar was handed the accolade after his performances helped Miami to a record regular season points tally, earning the club its first ever Supporters Shield.

Lionel Messi was named Major League Soccer's Most Valuable Player on Friday after leading Inter Miami to a record-breaking regular season campaign. The Argentine superstar was handed the accolade after his performances helped Miami to a record regular season points tally, earning the club its first ever Supporters Shield. The 37-year-old maestro finished the regular season with a league-leading 36 goal contributions after netting 20 goals and 16 assists. Messi's MVP award comes despite an injury-hit campaign in which he made only 19 appearances. Miami and Messi's season ultimately fizzled out, when the team suffered a shock first-round defeat in the MLS Cup playoffs. Messi is the 10th South American to win the MVP, and the fifth from Argentina after Luciano Acosta, Diego Valeri, Guillermo Barros Schelotto, and Christian Gomez. Messi was presented with the award in a ceremony at Inter's Chase Stadium in Fort Lauderdale alongside Miami Academy players. "Truly, it is an honor for me to receive this award from all of you," Messi told the Academy players in a video posted on the team's website. "It's a source of pride to watch you all train. I'm very happy to be here every day. ALSO READ | Neuer, Gnabry join Bayern Munich’s extended injury list as Kompany dicey over final XI against Heidenheim "I'm happy to be in this city, in this club that is growing ... I invite you to keep fighting and striving for your dreams." MLS commissioner Don Garber said Messi brought an unprecedented touch of football stardom to the league, which will conclude its season on Saturday with the MLS Cup final between LA Galaxy and New York Red Bulls in Los Angeles. "To have the best player in the world be the best player in Major League Soccer is something that dreams are made of for all of us," Garber said. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Lionel Messi named MLS Most Valuable Player after record-setting season

<p><strong>WI vs BAN 1st ODI&nbsp;Live Streaming, Date-Time, Venue:&nbsp;</strong>After ending the two-match Test series in a stalemate, Bangladesh and hosts West Indies will look to make their mark in the ODI series starting on Sunday (Dec 8). With the Champions Trophy set to take place in February, Bangladesh will look to use the series as a warm-up for the coveted ICC tournament. Ahead of the opening ODI contest between hosts West Indies and Bangladesh, here are all the details, including live streaming, squads and others.</p>

<h2><strong>When is the West Indies vs Bangladesh 1st ODI&nbsp;match?</strong></h2>

<p>The West Indies vs Bangladesh 1st ODI match will be played on Sunday (Dec 8).</p>

<h2><strong>Which stadium will host the West Indies vs Bangladesh 1st ODImatch?</strong></h2>

<p>The West Indies vs Bangladesh 1st ODI match will be played at the Warner Park,&nbsp;Basseterre in St Kitts.</p>

<h2><strong>What time will the West Indies vs Bangladesh 1st ODI match start?</strong></h2>

<p>The West Indies vs Bangladesh 1st ODI match will start at 9:30 AM local time (7:00 PM&nbsp;IST) with toss taking place at 9:00 AM local time (6:30 PM&nbsp;IST).</p>

<h2><strong>Where to watch the West Indies vs Bangladesh 1st ODI match on TV?</strong></h2>

<p>The West Indies vs Bangladesh 1st ODI match will not be telecast&nbsp;in India.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/football/lionel-messi-named-mls-most-valuable-player-after-record-setting-season-782159">Lionel Messi named MLS Most Valuable Player after record-setting season</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>Where to watch the West Indies vs Bangladesh 1st ODI LIVE Streaming online on OTT?</strong></h2>

<p>The West Indies vs Bangladesh 1st ODI&nbsp;match will be live-streamed on the FanCode App and website in India.</p>

<h2><strong>Squads:</strong></h2>

<p><strong>West Indies: </strong>Shai Hope (c), Brandon King (vc), Keacy Carty, Roston Chase, Matthew Forde, Justin Greaves, Shimron Hetmyer, Amir Jangoo (wk), Alzarri Joseph, Shamar Joseph, Evin Lewis, Gudakesh Motie, Sherfane Rutherford, Jayden Seales, Romario Shepherd</p>

<p><strong>Bangladesh: </strong>Mehidy Hasan Miraz (c), Litton Das (wk), Tanzid Hasan Tamim, Soumya Sarkar, Parvez Hossain Emon, Md Mahmudullah, Jaker Ali Anik, Afif Hossain Dhrubo, Rishad Hossain, Nasum Ahmed, Taskin Ahmed, Hasan Mahmud, Shoriful Islam, Tanzim Hasan Sakib, Nahid Rana</p>


WI vs BAN 1st ODI Live Streaming, Date-Time, Venue: After ending the two-match Test series in a stalemate, Bangladesh and hosts West Indies will look to make their mark in the ODI series starting on Sunday (Dec 8).

WI vs BAN 1st ODI Live Streaming, Date-Time, Venue: After ending the two-match Test series in a stalemate, Bangladesh and hosts West Indies will look to make their mark in the ODI series starting on Sunday (Dec 8). With the Champions Trophy set to take place in February, Bangladesh will look to use the series as a warm-up for the coveted ICC tournament. Ahead of the opening ODI contest between hosts West Indies and Bangladesh, here are all the details, including live streaming, squads and others. When is the West Indies vs Bangladesh 1st ODI match? The West Indies vs Bangladesh 1st ODI match will be played on Sunday (Dec 8). Which stadium will host the West Indies vs Bangladesh 1st ODImatch? The West Indies vs Bangladesh 1st ODI match will be played at the Warner Park, Basseterre in St Kitts. What time will the West Indies vs Bangladesh 1st ODI match start? The West Indies vs Bangladesh 1st ODI match will start at 9:30 AM local time (7:00 PM IST) with toss taking place at 9:00 AM local time (6:30 PM IST). Where to watch the West Indies vs Bangladesh 1st ODI match on TV? The West Indies vs Bangladesh 1st ODI match will not be telecast in India. ALSO READ | Lionel Messi named MLS Most Valuable Player after record-setting season Where to watch the West Indies vs Bangladesh 1st ODI LIVE Streaming online on OTT? The West Indies vs Bangladesh 1st ODI match will be live-streamed on the FanCode App and website in India. Squads: West Indies: Shai Hope (c), Brandon King (vc), Keacy Carty, Roston Chase, Matthew Forde, Justin Greaves, Shimron Hetmyer, Amir Jangoo (wk), Alzarri Joseph, Shamar Joseph, Evin Lewis, Gudakesh Motie, Sherfane Rutherford, Jayden Seales, Romario Shepherd Bangladesh: Mehidy Hasan Miraz (c), Litton Das (wk), Tanzid Hasan Tamim, Soumya Sarkar, Parvez Hossain Emon, Md Mahmudullah, Jaker Ali Anik, Afif Hossain Dhrubo, Rishad Hossain, Nasum Ahmed, Taskin Ahmed, Hasan Mahmud, Shoriful Islam, Tanzim Hasan Sakib, Nahid Rana

WI vs BAN 1st ODI live streaming: When & where to watch West Indies vs Bangladesh live on laptop, TV, Squads

<p>Question marks were raised on the standards of umpiring in the second Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) Test match between India and Australia on Saturday (Dec 7). Playing on Day 2 of the pink-ball Test in Adelaide, Marsh was given not out on an LBW appeal drawing comparisons with KL Rahul’s controversial dismissal in the Perth Test. Fans did not hold back on the ‘double standards’ in umpiring and took&nbsp;to social media to showcase their anger.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The third umpire should’ve taken more time on the Mitchell Marsh DRS call—needed more angles and frames. A bit unlucky for Ashwin and India there.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvsAUS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvsAUS</a><br />
<br />
<a href="https://t.co/Cvrp1kqOxx">pic.twitter.com/Cvrp1kqOxx</a></p>
— Drop_in cricket (@drop_incricket) <a href="https://twitter.com/drop_incricket/status/1865279788614656044?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 7, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>Question marks on umpiring</strong></h2>

<p>On the third ball of the 58th over in the Australian innings bowled by Ravichandran Ashwin, Mitchell Marsh came down the track and attempted a shot. The ball appeared to have hit the bat and the pad at the same time as Indian players appealed for an LBW. Umpire Chris Gaffaney turned down the appeal and judged Marsh not out, a decision that was challenged by Team India.</p>

<p>Upon review by third umpire Richard Kettleborough, there was no conclusive evidence found to overturn the decision as Marsh remained unharmed due to the benefit of the doubt.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">1st Pic - Kl Rahul was given out in 1st test even after having inconclusive evidence.<br />
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2nd Pic - Mitchell Marsh was given not out because of inconclusive evidence.<br />
<br />
What is this hypocrisy <a href="https://twitter.com/FoxCricket?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@FoxCricket</a> .<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BorderGavaskarTrophy?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BorderGavaskarTrophy</a> <a href="https://t.co/rTJ8jqhvPd">pic.twitter.com/rTJ8jqhvPd</a></p>
— -𝚉𝙰𝙳𝙾𝙽 🇮🇳 (@_zadon_) <a href="https://twitter.com/_zadon_/status/1865275071532798109?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 7, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>However, in a similar incident on Day 1 of the Perth Test, Indian opener KL Rahul was given out despite no conclusive evidence. Like Marsh, Rahul's decision was also reffered to the third umpire, but in his case he had to depart which left the fans angry.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/football/lionel-messi-named-mls-most-valuable-player-after-record-setting-season-782159">Lionel Messi named MLS Most Valuable Player after record-setting season</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>Ashwin exacts revenge</strong></h2>

<p>At the point of controversy, Marsh&nbsp;had yet to open his account as he looked to make the most of the opportunity. However, those ambitions were curtailed when he was batting on nine in the 64th over as Ashwin got the better of the Aussie all-rounder with a caught-behind. Rishabh Pant clutched his catch as the Aussies were narrowed to 211/5 at the time of writing.</p>

<p>Travis Head was batting on 63 while new man Alex Carey was yet to open his account. Australia lead India by 31 runs with still five wickets in hand in the first innings of the Adelaide Test.</p>


Question marks were raised on the standards of umpiring in the second Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) Test match between India and Australia on Saturday (Dec 7). Playing on Day 2 of the pink-ball Test in Adelaide, Marsh was given not out on an LBW appeal drawing comparisons with KL Rahul’s controversial dismissal in the Perth Test.

Question marks were raised on the standards of umpiring in the second Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) Test match between India and Australia on Saturday (Dec 7). Playing on Day 2 of the pink-ball Test in Adelaide, Marsh was given not out on an LBW appeal drawing comparisons with KL Rahul’s controversial dismissal in the Perth Test. Fans did not hold back on the ‘double standards’ in umpiring and took to social media to showcase their anger. The third umpire should’ve taken more time on the Mitchell Marsh DRS call—needed more angles and frames. A bit unlucky for Ashwin and India there.#INDvsAUS pic.twitter.com/Cvrp1kqOxx — Drop_in cricket (@drop_incricket) December 7, 2024 × Question marks on umpiring On the third ball of the 58th over in the Australian innings bowled by Ravichandran Ashwin, Mitchell Marsh came down the track and attempted a shot. The ball appeared to have hit the bat and the pad at the same time as Indian players appealed for an LBW. Umpire Chris Gaffaney turned down the appeal and judged Marsh not out, a decision that was challenged by Team India. Upon review by third umpire Richard Kettleborough, there was no conclusive evidence found to overturn the decision as Marsh remained unharmed due to the benefit of the doubt. 1st Pic - Kl Rahul was given out in 1st test even after having inconclusive evidence. 2nd Pic - Mitchell Marsh was given not out because of inconclusive evidence. What is this hypocrisy @FoxCricket .#AUSvIND #BorderGavaskarTrophy pic.twitter.com/rTJ8jqhvPd — -𝚉𝙰𝙳𝙾𝙽 🇮🇳 (@_zadon_) December 7, 2024 × However, in a similar incident on Day 1 of the Perth Test, Indian opener KL Rahul was given out despite no conclusive evidence. Like Marsh, Rahul's decision was also reffered to the third umpire, but in his case he had to depart which left the fans angry. ALSO READ | Lionel Messi named MLS Most Valuable Player after record-setting season Ashwin exacts revenge At the point of controversy, Marsh had yet to open his account as he looked to make the most of the opportunity. However, those ambitions were curtailed when he was batting on nine in the 64th over as Ashwin got the better of the Aussie all-rounder with a caught-behind. Rishabh Pant clutched his catch as the Aussies were narrowed to 211/5 at the time of writing. Travis Head was batting on 63 while new man Alex Carey was yet to open his account. Australia lead India by 31 runs with still five wickets in hand in the first innings of the Adelaide Test.

BGT 2024/25: Umpires in spotlight after controversial LBW call goes in favour of Mitchell Marsh - WATCH

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2002 vs Bangladesh, 2004 vs Bangladesh, 2004 vs Bangladesh

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BGT 2024-25: Bowlers to Take First-Ball Wicket on Multiple Occasions in Tests ft Mitchell Starc, Pedro Collins, Kapil Dev

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