Novak Djokovic is all set to set a new landmark in the world of tennis as world number one with the&nbsp;Serbian ace&nbsp;ready to overtake Roger Federer. Djokovic, on Monday, will hold his position as world number one for a staggering 311 weeks – a new milestone in a trophy-laden career.&nbsp;

Djokovic also has Federer and Nadal's record of winning 20 Grand Slam titles in sight after recently lifting his 18th&nbsp;major. The 33-year-old has time on his side with Federer and Nadal already fighting&nbsp;injury-plagued bodies.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"Now that I've become the historic No.1, I'm relieved," said Djokovic after sweeping to a ninth Australian Open last month which guaranteed his extended stay at the top.&nbsp;

"Now, I'm going to be able to focus mainly on the Grand Slams."&nbsp;

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Djokovic regained the top rankings from Spanish maestro Nadal in February 2020 and finished the year-end as number one for the sixth time –&nbsp;equalling&nbsp;the record set by legendary Pete Sampras.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Djokovic made his entry to the top 100 in July 2005, weeks after Nadal lifted his first Roland Garros. The Serb was top 50 in June 2006 and top 20 in October 2006 while racing into top 10 by March 2007. He became the world number one at just 24 in July 2011 – the day after winning his first Wimbledon.&nbsp;

Djokovic also became the first man to&nbsp;shatter&nbsp;the $100 million prize money barrier, ending his career with more Slams than Federer and Nadal.&nbsp;Notably, Djokovic has won more Australian Opens than Federer and Nadal.&nbsp;His Wimbledon total stands at five to Federer's eight and Nadal's two.&nbsp;

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"Obviously I have in my mind to win more Grand Slam titles and to break records.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"Until I retire from the tour, I will be devoting most of my attention and energy to winning the other major titles," Djokovic said.&nbsp;

Novak Djokovic is all set to set a new landmark in the world of tennis as world number one with the Serbian ace ready to overtake Roger Federer. Djokovic, on Monday, will hold his position as world number one for a staggering 311 weeks – a new milestone in a trophy-laden career.

Novak Djokovic is all set to set a new landmark in the world of tennis as world number one with the Serbian ace ready to overtake Roger Federer. Djokovic, on Monday, will hold his position as world number one for a staggering 311 weeks – a new milestone in a trophy-laden career. Djokovic also has Federer and Nadal's record of winning 20 Grand Slam titles in sight after recently lifting his 18th major. The 33-year-old has time on his side with Federer and Nadal already fighting injury-plagued bodies. "Now that I've become the historic No.1, I'm relieved," said Djokovic after sweeping to a ninth Australian Open last month which guaranteed his extended stay at the top. "Now, I'm going to be able to focus mainly on the Grand Slams." ALSO READ: No Covid vaccine mandate for NBA players: commissioner Djokovic regained the top rankings from Spanish maestro Nadal in February 2020 and finished the year-end as number one for the sixth time – equalling the record set by legendary Pete Sampras. Djokovic made his entry to the top 100 in July 2005, weeks after Nadal lifted his first Roland Garros. The Serb was top 50 in June 2006 and top 20 in October 2006 while racing into top 10 by March 2007. He became the world number one at just 24 in July 2011 – the day after winning his first Wimbledon. Djokovic also became the first man to shatter the $100 million prize money barrier, ending his career with more Slams than Federer and Nadal. Notably, Djokovic has won more Australian Opens than Federer and Nadal. His Wimbledon total stands at five to Federer's eight and Nadal's two. ALSO READ: Serb ace Novak Djokovic set to return on court at Miami Open "Obviously I have in my mind to win more Grand Slam titles and to break records. "Until I retire from the tour, I will be devoting most of my attention and energy to winning the other major titles," Djokovic said.

Novak Djokovic set to shatter Roger Federer's world number one record

Former Pakistan fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar has lavished high praise on Team India following Virat Kohli and Co's 3-1 series win against England as the 'Rawalpindi Express' termed&nbsp;visitors’&nbsp;loss&nbsp;as “embarrassing”.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Akhtar said it would have been better had England focused on their batting and crib less about the pitch. While none of the England members&nbsp;criticised&nbsp;the pitch in public, former England captains such as Michael Vaughan, Andrew Strauss and Alastair Cook were critical of the pitch produced in Chennai and Ahmedabad.&nbsp;

“All in all, it was an embarrassing defeat for the England team, and they have got a reality check in India. But they need to now learn the art of playing spin in the sub-continent well. Not sure, how are they going to lift themselves up from this humiliating defeat and motivate themselves to play better,” Shoaib Akhtar said on his&nbsp;Youtube&nbsp;channel.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-new-zealand-southampton-leads-race-to-host-icc-world-test-championship-final-368557" hreflang="en">India vs New Zealand: Southampton leads race to host ICC World Test Championship final</a>

Akhtar defended the pitches in Ahmedabad as the former Pakistan speedster asked while the visitors struggled, how come India managed to post big totals like 365 on the scoreboard?&nbsp;&nbsp;

“While many might talk about the wickets in the series, but look how India scored 365. They also played on the same wickets, where the England batsmen struggled. If Rishabh Pant and Washington Sundar can score runs, why can’t the English? With utmost ease, India has beaten England in the series, and sealed a spot in the final of the World Test Championship final,” Akhtar added.&nbsp;

IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/ind-vs-eng-rishabh-pants-magnificent-century-against-jimmy-anderson-and-co-368226" hreflang="en">IND vs ENG: Rishabh Pant's magnificent century against Jimmy Anderson and Co.</a>

Akthar praised&nbsp;Axar&nbsp;Patel highly following his heroics with the ball against England as he said that the 27-year-old might go on to become the quickest to 100 Test wickets.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

“Not only did he get a suitable wicket to bowl on, but he is an intelligent bowler too. He wouldn’t have given a chance to the English players when the control was in his hands, and that is what he did. If he keeps getting a few series like this, he might just become fastest bowler to 100 wickets. Having said that, England should have played him better,” he added.&nbsp;

India and England will next play five T20Is starting from March 12 before locking horns in a three-match ODI series.&nbsp;

Former Pakistan fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar has lavished high praise on Team India following Virat Kohli and Co's 3-1 series win against England as the 'Rawalpindi Express' termed visitors’ loss as “embarrassing”.

Former Pakistan fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar has lavished high praise on Team India following Virat Kohli and Co's 3-1 series win against England as the 'Rawalpindi Express' termed visitors’ loss as “embarrassing”. Akhtar said it would have been better had England focused on their batting and crib less about the pitch. While none of the England members criticised the pitch in public, former England captains such as Michael Vaughan, Andrew Strauss and Alastair Cook were critical of the pitch produced in Chennai and Ahmedabad. “All in all, it was an embarrassing defeat for the England team, and they have got a reality check in India. But they need to now learn the art of playing spin in the sub-continent well. Not sure, how are they going to lift themselves up from this humiliating defeat and motivate themselves to play better,” Shoaib Akhtar said on his Youtube channel. ALSO READ: India vs New Zealand: Southampton leads race to host ICC World Test Championship final Akhtar defended the pitches in Ahmedabad as the former Pakistan speedster asked while the visitors struggled, how come India managed to post big totals like 365 on the scoreboard? “While many might talk about the wickets in the series, but look how India scored 365. They also played on the same wickets, where the England batsmen struggled. If Rishabh Pant and Washington Sundar can score runs, why can’t the English? With utmost ease, India has beaten England in the series, and sealed a spot in the final of the World Test Championship final,” Akhtar added. IN PICS | IND vs ENG: Rishabh Pant's magnificent century against Jimmy Anderson and Co. Akthar praised Axar Patel highly following his heroics with the ball against England as he said that the 27-year-old might go on to become the quickest to 100 Test wickets. “Not only did he get a suitable wicket to bowl on, but he is an intelligent bowler too. He wouldn’t have given a chance to the English players when the control was in his hands, and that is what he did. If he keeps getting a few series like this, he might just become fastest bowler to 100 wickets. Having said that, England should have played him better,” he added. India and England will next play five T20Is starting from March 12 before locking horns in a three-match ODI series.

'Embarrassing': Shoaib Akhtar gives his verdict on England's 3-1 series defeat against India

Leicester moved into second in the Premier League by coming from behind to beat Brighton 2-1 on Saturday, while Arsenal's top-four chances now look forlorn after being held 1-1 by Burnley.

Depleted by a series of injuries to key players, Leicester have looked fatigued in recent weeks and fell behind after 10 minutes when Adam Lallana swept home his first Brighton goal.

The Seagulls have made a habit of dominating games without making it count and once again paid for failing to build on their lead as Lallana struck the woodwork and Neal Maupay had a goal ruled out for offside.

Leicester looked lifeless for the first 45 minutes without James Maddison and Harvey Barnes, but they bounced back after the break for a first win in four games.

"First half we weren't good enough, we didn't press the game well enough and didn't pass it well," said Leicester boss Brendan Rodgers.

"Second half I thought we were brilliant. We stopped them playing, then we showed our quality. By the end we deserved to win."

Youri Tielemans's brilliant pass unlocked the home defence for Kelechi Iheanacho to coolly dink home the equaliser on 62 minutes.

Kasper Schmeichel then denied Lallana again with a fine save before a goalkeeping error at the other end handed Rodgers's men a vital victory.

Robert Sanchez flapped at Marc Albrighton's corner and Daniel Amartey headed into the unguarded net.

Leicester now have a seven-point cushion over fifth-placed Everton as they aim to not make the same mistake as last season when they crashed out of the top four at the business end of the campaign.

A fifth game without a win leaves Brighton still just three points above the relegation zone.

<h2>- 'Anything can happen' -</h2>

Arsenal's best hope of a return to the Champions League for the first time in five years now lies in winning the Europa League after letting two more points slip away at Turf Moor.

Mikel Arteta's men remain in 10th, nine points adrift of the top four and with that gap certain to grow on Sunday when fourth plays fifth as Chelsea take on Everton.

Arsenal could not have asked for a better start as Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang took advantage of some sluggish defending and a slow reaction from England goalkeeper Nick Pope to squeeze home his 14th goal of the season after just six minutes.

Granit Xhaka was stupidly sent off when the sides last met in December in the midst of a run of one win in 10 games that gave Arsenal a mountain to climb to get back in the race for a European place.

The Swiss midfielder had another afternoon to forget as six minutes before half-time he inexplicably fired the ball into the midriff of Chris Wood and the ball ricocheted into the net off the New Zealand striker.

"If you are giving something to the opponent anything can happen," said Arteta. "This is where we have the biggest margin for improvement."

<h2>- Saints sigh of relief -</h2>

Southampton ended a nine-game winless run by beating bottom-of-the-table Sheffield United 2-0 to move 10 points clear of the relegation zone.

Ralph Hasenhuttl's men topped the table in November, but a run of one point from a possible 27 had them looking over their shoulders.

However, the Championship-bound Blades proved the perfect opponents for Southampton as James Ward-Prowse's penalty and Che Adams's first goal in 17 games earned a long-awaited win.

Aston Villa's unexpected challenge for the top four is also faltering after a 0-0 draw with Wolves left them seven points adrift of Chelsea in ninth.

Villa again lacked the creativity of injured captain Jack Grealish as it was Wolves who twice came closest to a winner through their skipper Conor Coady.

Leicester moved into second in the Premier League by coming from behind to beat Brighton 2-1 on Saturday, while Arsenal's top-four chances now look forlorn after being held 1-1 by Burnley.

Leicester moved into second in the Premier League by coming from behind to beat Brighton 2-1 on Saturday, while Arsenal's top-four chances now look forlorn after being held 1-1 by Burnley. Depleted by a series of injuries to key players, Leicester have looked fatigued in recent weeks and fell behind after 10 minutes when Adam Lallana swept home his first Brighton goal. The Seagulls have made a habit of dominating games without making it count and once again paid for failing to build on their lead as Lallana struck the woodwork and Neal Maupay had a goal ruled out for offside. Leicester looked lifeless for the first 45 minutes without James Maddison and Harvey Barnes, but they bounced back after the break for a first win in four games. "First half we weren't good enough, we didn't press the game well enough and didn't pass it well," said Leicester boss Brendan Rodgers. "Second half I thought we were brilliant. We stopped them playing, then we showed our quality. By the end we deserved to win." Youri Tielemans's brilliant pass unlocked the home defence for Kelechi Iheanacho to coolly dink home the equaliser on 62 minutes. Kasper Schmeichel then denied Lallana again with a fine save before a goalkeeping error at the other end handed Rodgers's men a vital victory. Robert Sanchez flapped at Marc Albrighton's corner and Daniel Amartey headed into the unguarded net. Leicester now have a seven-point cushion over fifth-placed Everton as they aim to not make the same mistake as last season when they crashed out of the top four at the business end of the campaign. A fifth game without a win leaves Brighton still just three points above the relegation zone. - 'Anything can happen' - Arsenal's best hope of a return to the Champions League for the first time in five years now lies in winning the Europa League after letting two more points slip away at Turf Moor. Mikel Arteta's men remain in 10th, nine points adrift of the top four and with that gap certain to grow on Sunday when fourth plays fifth as Chelsea take on Everton. Arsenal could not have asked for a better start as Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang took advantage of some sluggish defending and a slow reaction from England goalkeeper Nick Pope to squeeze home his 14th goal of the season after just six minutes. Granit Xhaka was stupidly sent off when the sides last met in December in the midst of a run of one win in 10 games that gave Arsenal a mountain to climb to get back in the race for a European place. The Swiss midfielder had another afternoon to forget as six minutes before half-time he inexplicably fired the ball into the midriff of Chris Wood and the ball ricocheted into the net off the New Zealand striker. "If you are giving something to the opponent anything can happen," said Arteta. "This is where we have the biggest margin for improvement." - Saints sigh of relief - Southampton ended a nine-game winless run by beating bottom-of-the-table Sheffield United 2-0 to move 10 points clear of the relegation zone. Ralph Hasenhuttl's men topped the table in November, but a run of one point from a possible 27 had them looking over their shoulders. However, the Championship-bound Blades proved the perfect opponents for Southampton as James Ward-Prowse's penalty and Che Adams's first goal in 17 games earned a long-awaited win. Aston Villa's unexpected challenge for the top four is also faltering after a 0-0 draw with Wolves left them seven points adrift of Chelsea in ninth. Villa again lacked the creativity of injured captain Jack Grealish as it was Wolves who twice came closest to a winner through their skipper Conor Coady.

Leicester bounce back to go second, Xhaka shocker costs Arsenal

With the finalists of the much-awaited ICC World Test Championship&nbsp;(WTC)&nbsp;decided after India's thumping 3-1 series win over England, the&nbsp;Virat Kohli-led outfit will be facing New Zealand in the summit clash, scheduled to be played from June 18 to 22.&nbsp;&nbsp;

While the International Cricket Council (ICC) on Saturday said that India and New Zealand will be locking horns in the final of the ICC World Test Championship, the venue of the match is yet to be decided. The Lord's was slated to host the WTC final but the iconic ground is reportedly out of the race with Ageas Bowl in Southampton,&nbsp;Edgbaston&nbsp;in Birmingham and&nbsp;Old Trafford in Manchester three&nbsp;grounds battling to host the grand finale, a report in&nbsp;Cricbuzz&nbsp;said that the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has checked the readiness of the Ageas Bowl in Southampton with the stadium&nbsp;front-runner to host the final of ICC World Test Championship.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
The <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WTC21?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WTC21</a> finalists 🙌 <a href="https://t.co/OWBBifgbvx">pic.twitter.com/OWBBifgbvx</a>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1368161982189305856?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 6, 2021</a></blockquote>
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The Ageas Bowl in Southampton boasts a five-star hotel attached to the stadium and provides plenty of logistical and operational convenience in times of bio-secure bubbles. Southampton had hosted matches between England and West Indies, and Pakistan.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

"I can't give much information apart from the fact that there has been discussion about it," confirmed Southampton cricket boss Rod&nbsp;Bransgrove&nbsp;to&nbsp;Cricbuzz&nbsp;about an approach to stage the final at the Ageas Bowl. "I am the chairman of Southampton and I can say we have been asked to stage it and also inquired if Southampton is available. I don't know if anything has been finally decided as yet,"&nbsp;Bransgrove said.&nbsp;

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
India 🤜🤛 New Zealand 
 
The inaugural ICC World Test Championship finalists! 
 
The wait will be unbearable. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WTC21?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WTC21</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvENG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvENG</a> <a href="https://t.co/X3KcNrUTJ1">pic.twitter.com/X3KcNrUTJ1</a>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1368148470649876480?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 6, 2021</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

However, the spokesman for the Marylebone Cricket Club, which runs the Lord's ground, remained non-committal.&nbsp;

"The MCC has been working with the ICC and the ECB in relation to planning for the World Test Championship Final. As yet, no definitive decision has been taken in relation to the location of the final. This will be announced by the ICC in due course," the spokesman for the MCC told&nbsp;Cricbuzz.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The ICC is expected to announce the venue soon and the world body is also expected to reveal playing conditions for the inaugural final of WTC along with a reserve day.&nbsp;

With the finalists of the much-awaited ICC World Test Championship (WTC) decided after India's thumping 3-1 series win over England, the Virat Kohli-led outfit will be facing New Zealand in the summit clash, scheduled to be played from June 18 to 22.

With the finalists of the much-awaited ICC World Test Championship (WTC) decided after India's thumping 3-1 series win over England, the Virat Kohli-led outfit will be facing New Zealand in the summit clash, scheduled to be played from June 18 to 22. While the International Cricket Council (ICC) on Saturday said that India and New Zealand will be locking horns in the final of the ICC World Test Championship, the venue of the match is yet to be decided. The Lord's was slated to host the WTC final but the iconic ground is reportedly out of the race with Ageas Bowl in Southampton, Edgbaston in Birmingham and Old Trafford in Manchester three grounds battling to host the grand finale, a report in Cricbuzz said that the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has checked the readiness of the Ageas Bowl in Southampton with the stadium front-runner to host the final of ICC World Test Championship. The #WTC21 finalists 🙌 pic.twitter.com/OWBBifgbvx — ICC (@ICC) March 6, 2021 × The Ageas Bowl in Southampton boasts a five-star hotel attached to the stadium and provides plenty of logistical and operational convenience in times of bio-secure bubbles. Southampton had hosted matches between England and West Indies, and Pakistan. "I can't give much information apart from the fact that there has been discussion about it," confirmed Southampton cricket boss Rod Bransgrove to Cricbuzz about an approach to stage the final at the Ageas Bowl. "I am the chairman of Southampton and I can say we have been asked to stage it and also inquired if Southampton is available. I don't know if anything has been finally decided as yet," Bransgrove said. India 🤜🤛 New Zealand The inaugural ICC World Test Championship finalists! The wait will be unbearable. #WTC21 | #INDvENG pic.twitter.com/X3KcNrUTJ1 — ICC (@ICC) March 6, 2021 × However, the spokesman for the Marylebone Cricket Club, which runs the Lord's ground, remained non-committal. "The MCC has been working with the ICC and the ECB in relation to planning for the World Test Championship Final. As yet, no definitive decision has been taken in relation to the location of the final. This will be announced by the ICC in due course," the spokesman for the MCC told Cricbuzz. The ICC is expected to announce the venue soon and the world body is also expected to reveal playing conditions for the inaugural final of WTC along with a reserve day.

India vs New Zealand: Southampton leads race to host ICC World Test Championship final

Manchester City have history in their sights as the runaway leaders bid to take a huge step towards the Premier League title in Sunday's showdown with fading challengers Manchester United.

City are 14 points clear of United with 11 games left and victory in the derby would effectively end their second placed rivals' faint hopes of catching them.

Pep Guardiola's side have been so dominant since the end of last year that it is the landmarks they can shatter on the way to a third title in four seasons that now hold the greatest interest.

They are unbeaten in 28 games and will set a new club record if they avoid defeat this weekend.

That could be the first of many milestones to fall for City, who are on an English top-flight record run of 21 successive wins in all competitions.

The only teams from the top five European leagues ever to record longer winning streaks in all competitions are Bayern Munich (23) and Real Madrid (22).

City can edge closer to Bayern's tally if they clinch a 16th successive Premier League victory this weekend, which would also take them to the brink of their own record of 18 consecutive Premier League wins, a mark shared with Liverpool.

Guardiola's team are six wins short of equalling the world record for consecutive victories in all competitions by a top-flight side -- set by Welsh team The New Saints in 2016.

City's incredible run is all the more remarkable given their troubled start to the season.

When they were held to a 0-0 draw at United in December, they were a point behind their rivals in ninth place and the death knell was ringing for their title hopes.

But, aided by some clever tactical tweaks from Guardiola, including the use of full-backs Joao Cancelo and Kyle Walker as auxiliary attackers, they have been perfect since then.

City have not trailed in a league fixture for 19 games despite being without the injured Sergio Aguero and Kevin De Bruyne for long periods.

While United's inconsistencies and the collapse of champions Liverpool have contributed to City's surge to the top, the leaders' supremacy has not been restricted to the league.

<h2>- 'Something special' -</h2>

An unprecedented quadruple is within City's reach, but Guardiola is determined to keep his players from getting complacent.

"To do what we have done in these four years, still winning, these guys have something special like my time at Barcelona and Bayern Munich," he said.

"We are in a really good position. I did not expect to be in this position two or three months ago but we need to be calm."

United have stumbled recently, drawing four of their past five league games, and their title ambitions faded into the south London fog during Wednesday's goalless stalemate at Crystal Palace.

Even so, United are unbeaten in their past 21 away league games and Guardiola is well aware of the threat they could pose.

United are the only side in any of the top five European leagues yet to lose an away league match this season, while Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has won on both of his visits to the Etihad since taking charge in 2019.

"I know how difficult United are," said Guardiola. "More than one year not losing away and they have good results at the Etihad."

Realistically United, who are five points clear of fifth-placed Everton, have to focus on qualifying for the Champions League, either via a top-four finish or winning the Europa League.&nbsp;

"Our focus is just on this one game and not where we're going to end up," Solskjaer said.

"They're ahead of us by a fair distance at the moment, so Sunday is a chance to test ourselves against a very good team."

<h2>Fixtures (GMT)</h2>

Saturday

Burnley v Arsenal (1230), Sheffield United v Southampton (1500), Aston Villa v Wolves (1730), Brighton v Leicester (2000)

Sunday

West Brom v Newcastle (1200), Liverpool v Fulham (1400), Manchester City v Manchester United (1630), Tottenham v Crystal Palace (1915)

Monday

Chelsea v Everton (1800), West Ham v Leeds (2000)

Manchester City have history in their sights as the runaway leaders bid to take a huge step towards the Premier League title in Sunday's showdown with fading challengers Manchester United.

Manchester City have history in their sights as the runaway leaders bid to take a huge step towards the Premier League title in Sunday's showdown with fading challengers Manchester United. City are 14 points clear of United with 11 games left and victory in the derby would effectively end their second placed rivals' faint hopes of catching them. Pep Guardiola's side have been so dominant since the end of last year that it is the landmarks they can shatter on the way to a third title in four seasons that now hold the greatest interest. They are unbeaten in 28 games and will set a new club record if they avoid defeat this weekend. That could be the first of many milestones to fall for City, who are on an English top-flight record run of 21 successive wins in all competitions. The only teams from the top five European leagues ever to record longer winning streaks in all competitions are Bayern Munich (23) and Real Madrid (22). City can edge closer to Bayern's tally if they clinch a 16th successive Premier League victory this weekend, which would also take them to the brink of their own record of 18 consecutive Premier League wins, a mark shared with Liverpool. Guardiola's team are six wins short of equalling the world record for consecutive victories in all competitions by a top-flight side -- set by Welsh team The New Saints in 2016. City's incredible run is all the more remarkable given their troubled start to the season. When they were held to a 0-0 draw at United in December, they were a point behind their rivals in ninth place and the death knell was ringing for their title hopes. But, aided by some clever tactical tweaks from Guardiola, including the use of full-backs Joao Cancelo and Kyle Walker as auxiliary attackers, they have been perfect since then. City have not trailed in a league fixture for 19 games despite being without the injured Sergio Aguero and Kevin De Bruyne for long periods. While United's inconsistencies and the collapse of champions Liverpool have contributed to City's surge to the top, the leaders' supremacy has not been restricted to the league. - 'Something special' - An unprecedented quadruple is within City's reach, but Guardiola is determined to keep his players from getting complacent. "To do what we have done in these four years, still winning, these guys have something special like my time at Barcelona and Bayern Munich," he said. "We are in a really good position. I did not expect to be in this position two or three months ago but we need to be calm." United have stumbled recently, drawing four of their past five league games, and their title ambitions faded into the south London fog during Wednesday's goalless stalemate at Crystal Palace. Even so, United are unbeaten in their past 21 away league games and Guardiola is well aware of the threat they could pose. United are the only side in any of the top five European leagues yet to lose an away league match this season, while Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has won on both of his visits to the Etihad since taking charge in 2019. "I know how difficult United are," said Guardiola. "More than one year not losing away and they have good results at the Etihad." Realistically United, who are five points clear of fifth-placed Everton, have to focus on qualifying for the Champions League, either via a top-four finish or winning the Europa League. "Our focus is just on this one game and not where we're going to end up," Solskjaer said. "They're ahead of us by a fair distance at the moment, so Sunday is a chance to test ourselves against a very good team." Fixtures (GMT) Saturday Burnley v Arsenal (1230), Sheffield United v Southampton (1500), Aston Villa v Wolves (1730), Brighton v Leicester (2000) Sunday West Brom v Newcastle (1200), Liverpool v Fulham (1400), Manchester City v Manchester United (1630), Tottenham v Crystal Palace (1915) Monday Chelsea v Everton (1800), West Ham v Leeds (2000)

Man City face Man Utd test on march towards history

Robert Lewandowski scored a hat-trick to leave him on 31 Bundesliga goals this season and seal Bayern Munich's 4-2 comeback home win over Borussia Dortmund on Saturday in Germany's 'Klassiker'.

Dortmund raced into a 2-0 lead as Erling Braut Haaland netted twice in the first nine minutes behind closed doors at the Allianz Arena.

However Lewandowksi then struck twice, the second from the penalty spot, to haul Bayern level before the break.

Leon Goretzka put Bayern ahead for the first time with two minutes left before Lewandowski completed his hat-trick on 90 minutes.

"The quality is certainly there, that's our DNA," said Thomas Mueller of Bayern's fightback.

The win leaves Bayern two points clear of RB Leipzig at the top of the table.

"We shook ourselves up at 2-0 down and deserved to win because we were the dominant team for (the last) 60 minutes," said Bayern coach Hansi Flick.

Bayern have won the last five meetings between the clubs.

<h2>- 'Not good enough' -</h2>

"We weren't good enough. We started well, but didn't play good enough football. We should have been more brave," said Dortmund midfielder Emre Can.

The match delivered on its billing as the battle of the Bundesliga's star strikers.

Haaland scored with just two minutes gone when his shot clipped the heel of Jerome Boateng.

Bayern were reeling after nine minutes when Thorgan Hazard flicked the ball back inside for Haaland to again smash the ball home.

Dortmund could have been 3-0 up on 25 minutes but Thomas Meunier squandered the chance to shoot.

A minute later, Bayern pulled a goal back when Leroy Sane squared the ball for Lewandowski to score.

Bayern went into the break level when Mahmoud Dahoud brought down Kingsley Coman in the area and Lewandowski converted the penalty.

After a frantic first-half, the tempo dropped in the second as both teams suffered key injuries.&nbsp;

"We started great and ended very badly," admitted Dortmund coach Edin Terzic.

Haaland came off after an hour gone with a cut on the back of his ankle.

With ten minutes left, Boateng had to be helped off in clear discomfort after twisting his knee.

Dortmund were left fuming for what captain Marco Reus claimed was a clear foul on Can late on.

"It was a clear foul - if that had been against Bayern, it would have been given," fumed Marco Reus.

Bayern settled the matter when Goretzka pinged his shot in off the post before Lewandowski completed his hat-trick with an outstanding low drive.

With ten games left, Lewandowski threatens to break Gerd Mueller's all-time record of 40 Bundesliga goals in the 1971/72 season.

<h2>- Leipzig romp -</h2>

Earlier RB Leipzig briefly climbed top of the table with a 3-0 romp at Freiburg thanks to goals by Christopher Nkunku, Alexander Sorloth and Emil Forsberg.&nbsp;

Leipzig impressed in their final tune-up before facing Liverpool in Budapest next Wednesday in the last 16 of the Champions League having lost the first leg 2-0.

Leipzig coach Julian Nagelsmann said goal-scoring left-back Angelino will "probably" miss the Liverpool game with a leg injury. &nbsp;

Third-placed Wolfsburg are now ten points adrift of Bayern having stumbled to a 2-1 defeat at mid-table Hoffenheim whose striker Andrej Kramaric scored the winning goal just before half-time.

Eintracht Frankfurt stay fourth after Filip Kostic equalised for the home team in a 1-1 draw against Stuttgart.&nbsp;

A late goal by Leverkusen striker Patrik Schick sealed their 1-0 win at Moenchengladbach, who drop to 10th as their miserable run continues.

Gladbach have now lost all fives games since it was announced head coach Marco Rose will take charge of Dortmund next season.

The away win eases the pressure on Leverkusen coach Peter Bosz. His fifth-placed side had failed to win any of their five previous games in all competitions.&nbsp;

Dodi Lukebakio converted a late penalty to seal Hertha Berlin's 2-1 home win over Augsburg.

It was Hertha's first victory in 10 games which pulled them up to 14th and away from the relegation fight.

Robert Lewandowski scored a hat-trick to leave him on 31 Bundesliga goals this season and seal Bayern Munich's 4-2 comeback home win over Borussia Dortmund on Saturday in Germany's 'Klassiker'.

Robert Lewandowski scored a hat-trick to leave him on 31 Bundesliga goals this season and seal Bayern Munich's 4-2 comeback home win over Borussia Dortmund on Saturday in Germany's 'Klassiker'. Dortmund raced into a 2-0 lead as Erling Braut Haaland netted twice in the first nine minutes behind closed doors at the Allianz Arena. However Lewandowksi then struck twice, the second from the penalty spot, to haul Bayern level before the break. Leon Goretzka put Bayern ahead for the first time with two minutes left before Lewandowski completed his hat-trick on 90 minutes. "The quality is certainly there, that's our DNA," said Thomas Mueller of Bayern's fightback. The win leaves Bayern two points clear of RB Leipzig at the top of the table. "We shook ourselves up at 2-0 down and deserved to win because we were the dominant team for (the last) 60 minutes," said Bayern coach Hansi Flick. Bayern have won the last five meetings between the clubs. - 'Not good enough' - "We weren't good enough. We started well, but didn't play good enough football. We should have been more brave," said Dortmund midfielder Emre Can. The match delivered on its billing as the battle of the Bundesliga's star strikers. Haaland scored with just two minutes gone when his shot clipped the heel of Jerome Boateng. Bayern were reeling after nine minutes when Thorgan Hazard flicked the ball back inside for Haaland to again smash the ball home. Dortmund could have been 3-0 up on 25 minutes but Thomas Meunier squandered the chance to shoot. A minute later, Bayern pulled a goal back when Leroy Sane squared the ball for Lewandowski to score. Bayern went into the break level when Mahmoud Dahoud brought down Kingsley Coman in the area and Lewandowski converted the penalty. After a frantic first-half, the tempo dropped in the second as both teams suffered key injuries. "We started great and ended very badly," admitted Dortmund coach Edin Terzic. Haaland came off after an hour gone with a cut on the back of his ankle. With ten minutes left, Boateng had to be helped off in clear discomfort after twisting his knee. Dortmund were left fuming for what captain Marco Reus claimed was a clear foul on Can late on. "It was a clear foul - if that had been against Bayern, it would have been given," fumed Marco Reus. Bayern settled the matter when Goretzka pinged his shot in off the post before Lewandowski completed his hat-trick with an outstanding low drive. With ten games left, Lewandowski threatens to break Gerd Mueller's all-time record of 40 Bundesliga goals in the 1971/72 season. - Leipzig romp - Earlier RB Leipzig briefly climbed top of the table with a 3-0 romp at Freiburg thanks to goals by Christopher Nkunku, Alexander Sorloth and Emil Forsberg. Leipzig impressed in their final tune-up before facing Liverpool in Budapest next Wednesday in the last 16 of the Champions League having lost the first leg 2-0. Leipzig coach Julian Nagelsmann said goal-scoring left-back Angelino will "probably" miss the Liverpool game with a leg injury. Third-placed Wolfsburg are now ten points adrift of Bayern having stumbled to a 2-1 defeat at mid-table Hoffenheim whose striker Andrej Kramaric scored the winning goal just before half-time. Eintracht Frankfurt stay fourth after Filip Kostic equalised for the home team in a 1-1 draw against Stuttgart. A late goal by Leverkusen striker Patrik Schick sealed their 1-0 win at Moenchengladbach, who drop to 10th as their miserable run continues. Gladbach have now lost all fives games since it was announced head coach Marco Rose will take charge of Dortmund next season. The away win eases the pressure on Leverkusen coach Peter Bosz. His fifth-placed side had failed to win any of their five previous games in all competitions. Dodi Lukebakio converted a late penalty to seal Hertha Berlin's 2-1 home win over Augsburg. It was Hertha's first victory in 10 games which pulled them up to 14th and away from the relegation fight.

Lewandowski hat-trick tops Haaland double as Bayern beat Dortmund

Barcelona cranked up the pressure on Sunday's Madrid derby by beating Osasuna 2-0 on Saturday night to edge two points behind leaders Atletico Madrid in La Liga.&nbsp;

Lionel Messi set up both goals in Pamplona as Jordi Alba hammered home in the first half before the 18-year-old Ilaix Moriba came off the bench to curl in an impressive shot late in the second.&nbsp;

"Thankfully Leo gave me the pass and I don't know how I cut in and shot with my left foot, I'm just glad it went in," Ilaix said. "I will never forget it, I will take that goal to my grave."

Ilaix's strike was his first goal in La Liga and another breakthrough moment for a Barca youngster, 24 hours before the club hopes a brighter future can begin under a new president.&nbsp;

Before the winner of the elections -- contested by Joan Laporta, Victor Font and Toni Freixa -- is confirmed on Sunday night, Atletico will face Real Madrid at the Wanda Metropolitano, where Barcelona will surely be hoping for anything other than a home win.&nbsp;

A few weeks ago, Ronald Koeman's side looked too far adrift in the title race but 10 victories out of 11 have shot them back into contention, even if Atletico remain in the driving seat with two games in hand.&nbsp;

"Any result is good for us," said Koeman.

After coming from two goals down to beat Sevilla after extra-time in the semi-final of the Copa del Rey on Wednesday, Barcelona now have one trophy, and perhaps even a domestic double, in their sights.&nbsp;

Their success in recent months has owed much to a talented crop of youngsters, with Ilaix -- a dynamic but technically gifted midfielder -- the latest to emerge.

"Every time he comes into the team he gives the team something extra," said Koeman. "Because of his personality, his energy, most of all he's good with the ball, and physically he's a strong boy. He's gaining ground and showing he can be more with the first team."

Barca faced some nervy moments early on as Jonathan Calleri tried an ambitious lob from distance before Ruben Garcia's curler from the edge of the area required an athletic save from Marc-Andre ter Stegen.&nbsp;

Messi shot wide and then set up the opener, drifting in from the right and spotting the scuttling Alba racing in behind on the opposite side. Messi clipped a pass through three Osasuna defenders for Alba to collect and he lashed it high and in from the angle.&nbsp;

Garcia deserved an equaliser soon after for his first touch alone, a sumptuous cushioning of a long ball forward, but Ter Stegen was again there to deny the finish.&nbsp;

There was more control about the second half but Barcelona needed a second to make it comfortable and substitute Ilaix seized his moment, shaping to shoot with his right before coolly rolling onto his left and whipping his shot into the corner.&nbsp;

While Barcelona sustained momentum from their midweek victory in the cup, Sevilla failed to bounce back, instead sinking to another loss away at Elche earlier on Saturday.

Raul Guti and Guido Carrillo sealed a crucial 2-1 win for Elche, with Luuk de Jong adding a late consolation for Sevilla, who have now lost three consecutive matches in eight days.

They sit six points ahead of Real Sociedad in fifth. Elche climb to 17th, two points above the bottom three.

Barcelona cranked up the pressure on Sunday's Madrid derby by beating Osasuna 2-0 on Saturday night to edge two points behind leaders Atletico Madrid in La Liga.

Barcelona cranked up the pressure on Sunday's Madrid derby by beating Osasuna 2-0 on Saturday night to edge two points behind leaders Atletico Madrid in La Liga. Lionel Messi set up both goals in Pamplona as Jordi Alba hammered home in the first half before the 18-year-old Ilaix Moriba came off the bench to curl in an impressive shot late in the second. "Thankfully Leo gave me the pass and I don't know how I cut in and shot with my left foot, I'm just glad it went in," Ilaix said. "I will never forget it, I will take that goal to my grave." Ilaix's strike was his first goal in La Liga and another breakthrough moment for a Barca youngster, 24 hours before the club hopes a brighter future can begin under a new president. Before the winner of the elections -- contested by Joan Laporta, Victor Font and Toni Freixa -- is confirmed on Sunday night, Atletico will face Real Madrid at the Wanda Metropolitano, where Barcelona will surely be hoping for anything other than a home win. A few weeks ago, Ronald Koeman's side looked too far adrift in the title race but 10 victories out of 11 have shot them back into contention, even if Atletico remain in the driving seat with two games in hand. "Any result is good for us," said Koeman. After coming from two goals down to beat Sevilla after extra-time in the semi-final of the Copa del Rey on Wednesday, Barcelona now have one trophy, and perhaps even a domestic double, in their sights. Their success in recent months has owed much to a talented crop of youngsters, with Ilaix -- a dynamic but technically gifted midfielder -- the latest to emerge. "Every time he comes into the team he gives the team something extra," said Koeman. "Because of his personality, his energy, most of all he's good with the ball, and physically he's a strong boy. He's gaining ground and showing he can be more with the first team." Barca faced some nervy moments early on as Jonathan Calleri tried an ambitious lob from distance before Ruben Garcia's curler from the edge of the area required an athletic save from Marc-Andre ter Stegen. Messi shot wide and then set up the opener, drifting in from the right and spotting the scuttling Alba racing in behind on the opposite side. Messi clipped a pass through three Osasuna defenders for Alba to collect and he lashed it high and in from the angle. Garcia deserved an equaliser soon after for his first touch alone, a sumptuous cushioning of a long ball forward, but Ter Stegen was again there to deny the finish. There was more control about the second half but Barcelona needed a second to make it comfortable and substitute Ilaix seized his moment, shaping to shoot with his right before coolly rolling onto his left and whipping his shot into the corner. While Barcelona sustained momentum from their midweek victory in the cup, Sevilla failed to bounce back, instead sinking to another loss away at Elche earlier on Saturday. Raul Guti and Guido Carrillo sealed a crucial 2-1 win for Elche, with Luuk de Jong adding a late consolation for Sevilla, who have now lost three consecutive matches in eight days. They sit six points ahead of Real Sociedad in fifth. Elche climb to 17th, two points above the bottom three.

Barcelona raise the stakes in Madrid derby after Osasuna win

NBA commissioner Adam Silver says the league won't require players to be vaccinated against Covid-19, but if progress continues against the virus the league can play a normal schedule in "relatively full" arenas next season.

"Roughly half of our teams have fans in their arenas right now and if vaccines continue on the pace they are, and they continue to be as effective as they have been against the virus and its variants, we're hopeful that we'll have relatively full arenas next season as well," Silver said Saturday in a virtual press conference on the eve of the All-Star Game in Atlanta, Georgia.

Silver said there are no plans for any overseas exhibition or regular-season games in the upcoming campaign, but he remains confident teams will be able to play a full 82-game schedule starting next October and ending in June.

"I'm fairly optimistic, at this point, that we will be able to start on time," Silver said.

The commissioner said he believed it was a "personal decision" whether to be vaccinated "that players need to make just like everyone in our communities needs to make."

He said the league and players association were working together to provide players with information on vaccines "and also encouraging them to seek out information on their own" from personal physicians or other advisers.

Silver said that, to his knowledge, no NBA players had yet been vaccinated, although some coaches and other staff who qualified to be innoculated because of age or other reasons had been.

Even so, Silver said, the league's coronavirus protocols including mask-wearing, social distancing and rigorous contact tracing and quarantining, had allowed the season to proceed with only "a relatively small percentage of games" having to be postponed.

The coronavirus pandemic shut down the NBA in March of 2020, the league eventually cancelling 171 games before resuming in a quarantine bubble in Orlando, Florida.

After the Los Angeles Lakers captured the title in September, the new season tipped off on December 22 with each team scheduled to play 72 games.

Silver said the financial hit had been and continues to be "significant" and was being borne by both owners and players.

"Last season and this season has required a significant investment on the part of the team owners," Silver said. "They accept that. Players will end up taking a reduction in salary this season because they are partners with the league and teams on revenue.

"League executives, team executives have all taken haircuts on their salary," he said.

"But I think when we all step back, we all feel very fortunate to be working under these circumstances and my sense is the players feel the same way."

And despite his optimism, Silver sounded a cautionary note when discussing progress made in containing coronavirus.

"One thing we've all come to understand over the last year is that the virus is firmly in charge," Silver said.

NBA commissioner Adam Silver says the league won't require players to be vaccinated against Covid-19, but if progress continues against the virus the league can play a normal schedule in "relatively full" arenas next season.

NBA commissioner Adam Silver says the league won't require players to be vaccinated against Covid-19, but if progress continues against the virus the league can play a normal schedule in "relatively full" arenas next season. "Roughly half of our teams have fans in their arenas right now and if vaccines continue on the pace they are, and they continue to be as effective as they have been against the virus and its variants, we're hopeful that we'll have relatively full arenas next season as well," Silver said Saturday in a virtual press conference on the eve of the All-Star Game in Atlanta, Georgia. Silver said there are no plans for any overseas exhibition or regular-season games in the upcoming campaign, but he remains confident teams will be able to play a full 82-game schedule starting next October and ending in June. "I'm fairly optimistic, at this point, that we will be able to start on time," Silver said. The commissioner said he believed it was a "personal decision" whether to be vaccinated "that players need to make just like everyone in our communities needs to make." He said the league and players association were working together to provide players with information on vaccines "and also encouraging them to seek out information on their own" from personal physicians or other advisers. Silver said that, to his knowledge, no NBA players had yet been vaccinated, although some coaches and other staff who qualified to be innoculated because of age or other reasons had been. Even so, Silver said, the league's coronavirus protocols including mask-wearing, social distancing and rigorous contact tracing and quarantining, had allowed the season to proceed with only "a relatively small percentage of games" having to be postponed. The coronavirus pandemic shut down the NBA in March of 2020, the league eventually cancelling 171 games before resuming in a quarantine bubble in Orlando, Florida. After the Los Angeles Lakers captured the title in September, the new season tipped off on December 22 with each team scheduled to play 72 games. Silver said the financial hit had been and continues to be "significant" and was being borne by both owners and players. "Last season and this season has required a significant investment on the part of the team owners," Silver said. "They accept that. Players will end up taking a reduction in salary this season because they are partners with the league and teams on revenue. "League executives, team executives have all taken haircuts on their salary," he said. "But I think when we all step back, we all feel very fortunate to be working under these circumstances and my sense is the players feel the same way." And despite his optimism, Silver sounded a cautionary note when discussing progress made in containing coronavirus. "One thing we've all come to understand over the last year is that the virus is firmly in charge," Silver said.

No Covid vaccine mandate for NBA players: commissioner

A century opening stand by Martin Guptill and Devon Conway saw New Zealand clinch their Twenty20 series against Australia in Wellington on Sunday after the tourists faltered in the face of an experimental spin attack.

Set a target of 143 for victory in the fifth and final match, New Zealand claimed victory by seven wickets and took the series 3-2 with an emphatic 27 balls to spare.

After being comprehensively outplayed in games three and four when batting second, New Zealand captain Kane Williamson knew he had to be innovative to win the series after he lost the toss and was told to bowl first.

He put an emphasis on spin with his slow bowlers sending down 12 overs, the most for New Zealand in a Twenty20 match, and they took four of the eight wickets.

"We just wanted to put out a much-improved performance from the last two and it was great that we could show some signs of improvement," Williamson said.

"Clearly, the slower bowlers on that wicket were a little bit trickier."

Of the spin brigade, Ish Sodhi finished with 3-24 off his four overs, Hong Kong-born Mark Chapman, bowling for the first time for New Zealand, took 1-9 off two and Mitchell Santner conceded only 21 runs from his four.

Guptill, who had been out of form going into the series, silenced his critics with a masterful 71, including seven fours and four sixes, while Conway contributed 36 with the pair putting on 106 for the first wicket.

New Zealand stumbled slightly when Kane Williamson went first ball but a Guptill single denied Riley Meredith the hat-trick.

Glenn Phillips blasted New Zealand home with five fours and two sixes to be unbeaten on 34.

Although a Covid-19 outbreak in Auckland forced the last three matches to be played on the same wicket in Wellington in the space of five days, Australian captain Aaron Finch said it was his side's batting and not a worn pitch that cost the tourists.

"We probably weren't aggressive enough with the bat, myself led that at the top," he said.

"We didnt get enough runs, we kept losing wickets at regular intervals. I thought (the pitch) played pretty well and Mitch Santner bowled beautifully with the new ball and didn't allow us to get away to a flyer."

Matthew Wade&nbsp;top scored for the tourists with 44 while Finch contributed 36 and Marcus Stoinis made 24.

A century opening stand by Martin Guptill and Devon Conway saw New Zealand clinch their Twenty20 series against Australia in Wellington on Sunday after the tourists faltered in the face of an experimental spin attack.

A century opening stand by Martin Guptill and Devon Conway saw New Zealand clinch their Twenty20 series against Australia in Wellington on Sunday after the tourists faltered in the face of an experimental spin attack. Set a target of 143 for victory in the fifth and final match, New Zealand claimed victory by seven wickets and took the series 3-2 with an emphatic 27 balls to spare. After being comprehensively outplayed in games three and four when batting second, New Zealand captain Kane Williamson knew he had to be innovative to win the series after he lost the toss and was told to bowl first. He put an emphasis on spin with his slow bowlers sending down 12 overs, the most for New Zealand in a Twenty20 match, and they took four of the eight wickets. "We just wanted to put out a much-improved performance from the last two and it was great that we could show some signs of improvement," Williamson said. "Clearly, the slower bowlers on that wicket were a little bit trickier." Of the spin brigade, Ish Sodhi finished with 3-24 off his four overs, Hong Kong-born Mark Chapman, bowling for the first time for New Zealand, took 1-9 off two and Mitchell Santner conceded only 21 runs from his four. Guptill, who had been out of form going into the series, silenced his critics with a masterful 71, including seven fours and four sixes, while Conway contributed 36 with the pair putting on 106 for the first wicket. New Zealand stumbled slightly when Kane Williamson went first ball but a Guptill single denied Riley Meredith the hat-trick. Glenn Phillips blasted New Zealand home with five fours and two sixes to be unbeaten on 34. Although a Covid-19 outbreak in Auckland forced the last three matches to be played on the same wicket in Wellington in the space of five days, Australian captain Aaron Finch said it was his side's batting and not a worn pitch that cost the tourists. "We probably weren't aggressive enough with the bat, myself led that at the top," he said. "We didnt get enough runs, we kept losing wickets at regular intervals. I thought (the pitch) played pretty well and Mitch Santner bowled beautifully with the new ball and didn't allow us to get away to a flyer." Matthew Wade top scored for the tourists with 44 while Finch contributed 36 and Marcus Stoinis made 24.

Hot Guptill leads New Zealand to T20 series win against Australia

Former England captain Michael Vaughan has lauded India as the "best team in the world” following Virat Kohli and Co's emphatic 3-1 Test series win over England. India defeated England by an innings and 25 runs in the fourth and final Test in Ahmedabad to seal the series win as they qualify for the final of ICC World Test Championship.&nbsp;

Vaughan, who had&nbsp;criticised&nbsp;the pitches on offer in the four-Test series, richly praised India for their showing in the series as he said if India can beat England in England, they will be hailed as the team of this era.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

“India, for me, are pound for pound the best team in the world. If you look at 2021, they won in Australia, they've beaten England 3-1... there's a T20 World Cup in India and they will be the&nbsp;favourites&nbsp;to win that as well,” Vaughan said on radio for BBC 5 Live Sport.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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“They've also got the challenge to come to England in a few months’ time for 5 Test matches. If they beat England, who are tough to beat in home conditions with the ball moving around... if India come here and beat England, and I wouldn't bet against them with that they've got on the talent.&nbsp;

“If they beat England in England then I think they are the team of this era. They've got enough. They've got the pace, the skill, the spinners and they've obviously got Virat Kohli. They are a tremendous team,” he added.&nbsp;

India&nbsp;are&nbsp;scheduled to tour England for a five-Test series later in the year and will hope to start the second cycle of ICC WTC with a statement.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/had-to-dig-deep-to-find-water-ravi-shastri-on-road-to-world-test-championship-final-368614" hreflang="en">Had to dig deep to find water: Ravi Shastri on road to World Test Championship final</a>

Meanwhile, India, after defeating England, completed their 13th&nbsp;Test win under Kohli's captaincy at home after spinners Ravichandran Ashwin and&nbsp;Axar&nbsp;Patel spun a web to bundle England for 135 runs. Ashwin and&nbsp;Axar&nbsp;ended the series with combined 59 wickets with Ashwin scalping 32 and&nbsp;Axar&nbsp;27.&nbsp;

India will face New Zealand in the final of WTC, scheduled for June 18-22 in England.&nbsp;

Former England captain Michael Vaughan has lauded India as the "best team in the world” following Virat Kohli and Co's emphatic 3-1 Test series win over England.

Former England captain Michael Vaughan has lauded India as the "best team in the world” following Virat Kohli and Co's emphatic 3-1 Test series win over England. India defeated England by an innings and 25 runs in the fourth and final Test in Ahmedabad to seal the series win as they qualify for the final of ICC World Test Championship. Vaughan, who had criticised the pitches on offer in the four-Test series, richly praised India for their showing in the series as he said if India can beat England in England, they will be hailed as the team of this era. “India, for me, are pound for pound the best team in the world. If you look at 2021, they won in Australia, they've beaten England 3-1... there's a T20 World Cup in India and they will be the favourites to win that as well,” Vaughan said on radio for BBC 5 Live Sport. ALSO READ: IPL 2021 Schedule: Team-wise full fixture list, date, time and venues “They've also got the challenge to come to England in a few months’ time for 5 Test matches. If they beat England, who are tough to beat in home conditions with the ball moving around... if India come here and beat England, and I wouldn't bet against them with that they've got on the talent. “If they beat England in England then I think they are the team of this era. They've got enough. They've got the pace, the skill, the spinners and they've obviously got Virat Kohli. They are a tremendous team,” he added. India are scheduled to tour England for a five-Test series later in the year and will hope to start the second cycle of ICC WTC with a statement. ALSO READ: Had to dig deep to find water: Ravi Shastri on road to World Test Championship final Meanwhile, India, after defeating England, completed their 13th Test win under Kohli's captaincy at home after spinners Ravichandran Ashwin and Axar Patel spun a web to bundle England for 135 runs. Ashwin and Axar ended the series with combined 59 wickets with Ashwin scalping 32 and Axar 27. India will face New Zealand in the final of WTC, scheduled for June 18-22 in England.

India the best team in the world, says former England captain Michael Vaughan

Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) chief and former BCCI president Sharad Pawar on Sunday revealed how&nbsp;Sachin&nbsp;Tendulkar's suggestion led to Mahendra Singh Dhoni become the captain of the Indian cricket team.&nbsp;&nbsp;

While addressing a public meeting, Pawar revealed how Rahul Dravid wanted to quit captaincy in 2007 but for that, a new candidate was needed. Pawar asked Tendulkar to take the charge from Dravid but the Master Blaster refused before suggesting MS Dhoni's name for captaincy.&nbsp;Pawar served as the BCCI president for a period of three years from 2005 to 2008.&nbsp;

"I remember India had gone to England in 2007. At that time, Rahul Dravid was the captain. I was there in England then and Dravid came to meet me. He told me how he no longer wanted to lead India. He told me how the captaincy was affecting his batting. He told me that he should be relieved from the captaincy. I then asked&nbsp;Sachin&nbsp;Tendulkar to lead the side, but he refused the role," said Pawar during a public meeting.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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"I told&nbsp;Sachin&nbsp;that if both of you and Dravid do not want to lead the side, how will we go about things? Then&nbsp;Sachin&nbsp;told me that we have one more player in the country who could lead the side and his name is none other than MS Dhoni. After that, we gave the leadership to Dhoni," he added.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Under Dravid's captaincy in 2007, India&nbsp;were&nbsp;knocked out from the World Cup in the group stage. In the same year, Dhoni was named the captain of India's T20 side that went on to lift the T20 World Cup. Dhoni went on to lead the country in both ODIs and Tests, winning all the major ICC Trophies&nbsp;and becoming the only captain to date to have won all ICC trophies.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/its-banter-ravi-shastri-reacts-to-viral-memes-around-him-on-social-media-368581" hreflang="en">It's banter!: Ravi Shastri reacts to viral memes around him on social media</a>

In 2014, Dhoni announced his retirement from Test cricket after playing 90 Test matches. In 2020, Dhoni called it quits from international cricket marking an end to a trophy-laden 16-year-long career. He continues to play in the IPL.&nbsp;

Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) chief and former BCCI president Sharad Pawar on Sunday revealed how Sachin Tendulkar's suggestion led to Mahendra Singh Dhoni become the captain of the Indian cricket team.

Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) chief and former BCCI president Sharad Pawar on Sunday revealed how Sachin Tendulkar's suggestion led to Mahendra Singh Dhoni become the captain of the Indian cricket team. While addressing a public meeting, Pawar revealed how Rahul Dravid wanted to quit captaincy in 2007 but for that, a new candidate was needed. Pawar asked Tendulkar to take the charge from Dravid but the Master Blaster refused before suggesting MS Dhoni's name for captaincy. Pawar served as the BCCI president for a period of three years from 2005 to 2008. "I remember India had gone to England in 2007. At that time, Rahul Dravid was the captain. I was there in England then and Dravid came to meet me. He told me how he no longer wanted to lead India. He told me how the captaincy was affecting his batting. He told me that he should be relieved from the captaincy. I then asked Sachin Tendulkar to lead the side, but he refused the role," said Pawar during a public meeting. ALSO READ: IPL 2021 Schedule: Team-wise full fixture list, date, time and venues "I told Sachin that if both of you and Dravid do not want to lead the side, how will we go about things? Then Sachin told me that we have one more player in the country who could lead the side and his name is none other than MS Dhoni. After that, we gave the leadership to Dhoni," he added. Under Dravid's captaincy in 2007, India were knocked out from the World Cup in the group stage. In the same year, Dhoni was named the captain of India's T20 side that went on to lift the T20 World Cup. Dhoni went on to lead the country in both ODIs and Tests, winning all the major ICC Trophies and becoming the only captain to date to have won all ICC trophies. ALSO READ: It's banter!: Ravi Shastri reacts to viral memes around him on social media In 2014, Dhoni announced his retirement from Test cricket after playing 90 Test matches. In 2020, Dhoni called it quits from international cricket marking an end to a trophy-laden 16-year-long career. He continues to play in the IPL.

Ex-BCCI president reveals how Sachin Tendulkar suggested MS Dhoni's name to lead Team India

Polling opened on Sunday morning for a presidential election at crisis-hit Barcelona, where the winner will face the challenge of rebuilding the club's finances and squad.

Voting started at 09.00 local time (0800 GMT) in an election reshaped by the coronavirus pandemic.

The three candidates are former president Joan Laporta, the favourite according to the Catalan press, Toni Freixa and Victor Font.

They are running to replace Josep Maria Bartomeu, who resigned in October and was briefly taken in for questioning following police raids on the club on Monday into the 'Barcagate' scandal which revolves around allegations that Barcelona carried out a defamation campaign against current and former players critical of club leadership.&nbsp;

"These are the most important elections in the history of Barca," Laporta told the club web site after voting.

Barcelona is in crisis on and off the field.&nbsp;

In October, it announced losses of announced losses of 97 million euros ($114 million) for last season and debts that had more than doubled to 488 million euros. Star player Lionel Messi is out of contract in the summer. In the Champions League, Barcelona travel to Paris on Wednesday trailing Paris Saint-Germain &nbsp;4-1 after a humiliating first-leg home loss. Form in La Liga has improved and on Saturday Barcelona climbed to second, two points behind leaders Atletico Madrid, who have two games in hand.&nbsp;

In previous elections, members have cast their votes in person at the club's Nou Camp headquarters, but because of Covid-19 members have also been allowed to apply for postal votes.

The club said that of the 110,920 members, 22,811 had applied to vote remotely.

Polling stations have also been set up in Girona, Tarragona, Tortosa and Lleida in Catalonia and in Andorra but the club said that 78,987 members had indicated they would vote, as they always have, at the Camp Nou.

Even though it began to rain in Barcelona shortly after the polls opened, the club reported on their web site at 09.45 that "the large influx of members to the stadium continues." The club posted a photo of queueing supporters wearing masks and rubbing gel on their hands.

"Members should have no doubt about coming to vote," said &nbsp;Carles Tusquets, head of the interim management committee that has run the club since Bartomeu resigned on October 27.&nbsp;

The polling will continue until 21.00 local time and the result is expected before midnight. &nbsp;

Polling opened on Sunday morning for a presidential election at crisis-hit Barcelona, where the winner will face the challenge of rebuilding the club's finances and squad.

Polling opened on Sunday morning for a presidential election at crisis-hit Barcelona, where the winner will face the challenge of rebuilding the club's finances and squad. Voting started at 09.00 local time (0800 GMT) in an election reshaped by the coronavirus pandemic. The three candidates are former president Joan Laporta, the favourite according to the Catalan press, Toni Freixa and Victor Font. They are running to replace Josep Maria Bartomeu, who resigned in October and was briefly taken in for questioning following police raids on the club on Monday into the 'Barcagate' scandal which revolves around allegations that Barcelona carried out a defamation campaign against current and former players critical of club leadership. "These are the most important elections in the history of Barca," Laporta told the club web site after voting. Barcelona is in crisis on and off the field. In October, it announced losses of announced losses of 97 million euros ($114 million) for last season and debts that had more than doubled to 488 million euros. Star player Lionel Messi is out of contract in the summer. In the Champions League, Barcelona travel to Paris on Wednesday trailing Paris Saint-Germain 4-1 after a humiliating first-leg home loss. Form in La Liga has improved and on Saturday Barcelona climbed to second, two points behind leaders Atletico Madrid, who have two games in hand. In previous elections, members have cast their votes in person at the club's Nou Camp headquarters, but because of Covid-19 members have also been allowed to apply for postal votes. The club said that of the 110,920 members, 22,811 had applied to vote remotely. Polling stations have also been set up in Girona, Tarragona, Tortosa and Lleida in Catalonia and in Andorra but the club said that 78,987 members had indicated they would vote, as they always have, at the Camp Nou. Even though it began to rain in Barcelona shortly after the polls opened, the club reported on their web site at 09.45 that "the large influx of members to the stadium continues." The club posted a photo of queueing supporters wearing masks and rubbing gel on their hands. "Members should have no doubt about coming to vote," said Carles Tusquets, head of the interim management committee that has run the club since Bartomeu resigned on October 27. The polling will continue until 21.00 local time and the result is expected before midnight.

Polls open for presidential election at troubled Barcelona

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