Brighton condemned Liverpool to their second straight Premier League home defeat on Wednesday, winning 1-0 to leave the champions with a mountain to climb if they are going to retain their title.

Jurgen Klopp's men appeared to have turned the corner with impressive victories at Tottenham and West Ham after a five-match winless run.

But defeat to lowly Brighton at Anfield leaves them in fourth place, seven points behind leaders Manchester City, who also have a game in hand and look increasingly likely to win their third title in four years.

Liverpool's 68-game unbeaten home run in the Premier League was ended by Burnley last month and they have now lost consecutive league games at Anfield for the first time since 2012.

Troublingly for Klopp, his side have failed to score in three consecutive home league games for the first time since 1984.

Graham Potter's men executed their game plan to perfection, snuffing out Liverpool's dangermen and offering a threat up front.&nbsp;

The only goal of the game came in the 56th minute courtesy of a Steven Alzate strike.

Klopp, who must prepare his team for the daunting task of facing Pep Guardiola's Manchester City on Sunday, said his team were not mentally fresh.

"The only explanation now is that we are a fatigued team, mentally more or less," he told BT Sport. "That leads to not the maximum freshness in your legs.

"We had our moments but they deserved to win."

He added:&nbsp;"The only thing we can do is use the things that happen and learn from them. The solution is always the players. It has been a tough week and tonight it was not enough. City are flying and we have to find solutions."

<h2>- Defensive crisis -</h2>

Liverpool captain Jordan Henderson was again drafted into central defence in the absence of any of the club's senior centre-backs, with new signing Ben Davies on the substitutes' bench.

Goalkeeper Alisson Becker was absent due to illness, meaning Caoimhin Kelleher made only his second Premier League appearance, and forward Sadio Mane was also missing.

Liverpool enjoyed the bulk of possession in the early stages but in-form Brighton were organised at the back and pushed forward when they could.

Mohamed Salah had a golden chance to give Liverpool the lead in the opening minutes when he collected a long ball from Henderson but put his shot over the bar.

Salah offered an occasional threat down the right but Liverpool looked short of ideas in the final third when faced with the massed blue shirts of Brighton.

The in-form visitors had a chance to take the lead midway through the first half when the ball fell to Dan Burn after Neal Maupay's shot was blocked but he skied over from close range.

Klopp's men went in at half-time having failed to muster a single shot on goal.

The second half shaped up like the first, with Liverpool probing but looking short of inspiration.

Instead it was Brighton who took the lead with the game's first shot on target.

Burn, on the left side of the Liverpool area, headed a cross-field ball back across goal and Alzate combined with Leandro Trossard to steer the ball into the net.

Klopp threw on Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and Divock Origi for Georginio Wijnaldum and Xherdan Shaqiri as he sought a way back into the match.

Salah flashed a left-footed shot over after Trent Alexander-Arnold fizzed a ball across the area and Adam Webster produced a superb, muscular challenge to stop the Egypt forward in his tracks.

But Brighton were still threatening at the other end. Kelleher saved smartly from Pascal Gross and Trossard also forced a save.

The result lifts Brighton to 15th in the table, 10 points clear of the relegation zone.

"It's not an easy place to get points," said Potter. "They're a top team. We're just trying our best in this league.&nbsp;

"Every game we face a huge task. It's one for the supporters and everyone involved in the club. It's not often a club like us come here and win."

Brighton condemned Liverpool to their second straight Premier League home defeat on Wednesday, winning 1-0 to leave the champions with a mountain to climb if they are going to retain their title.

Brighton condemned Liverpool to their second straight Premier League home defeat on Wednesday, winning 1-0 to leave the champions with a mountain to climb if they are going to retain their title. Jurgen Klopp's men appeared to have turned the corner with impressive victories at Tottenham and West Ham after a five-match winless run. But defeat to lowly Brighton at Anfield leaves them in fourth place, seven points behind leaders Manchester City, who also have a game in hand and look increasingly likely to win their third title in four years. Liverpool's 68-game unbeaten home run in the Premier League was ended by Burnley last month and they have now lost consecutive league games at Anfield for the first time since 2012. Troublingly for Klopp, his side have failed to score in three consecutive home league games for the first time since 1984. Graham Potter's men executed their game plan to perfection, snuffing out Liverpool's dangermen and offering a threat up front. The only goal of the game came in the 56th minute courtesy of a Steven Alzate strike. Klopp, who must prepare his team for the daunting task of facing Pep Guardiola's Manchester City on Sunday, said his team were not mentally fresh. "The only explanation now is that we are a fatigued team, mentally more or less," he told BT Sport. "That leads to not the maximum freshness in your legs. "We had our moments but they deserved to win." He added: "The only thing we can do is use the things that happen and learn from them. The solution is always the players. It has been a tough week and tonight it was not enough. City are flying and we have to find solutions." - Defensive crisis - Liverpool captain Jordan Henderson was again drafted into central defence in the absence of any of the club's senior centre-backs, with new signing Ben Davies on the substitutes' bench. Goalkeeper Alisson Becker was absent due to illness, meaning Caoimhin Kelleher made only his second Premier League appearance, and forward Sadio Mane was also missing. Liverpool enjoyed the bulk of possession in the early stages but in-form Brighton were organised at the back and pushed forward when they could. Mohamed Salah had a golden chance to give Liverpool the lead in the opening minutes when he collected a long ball from Henderson but put his shot over the bar. Salah offered an occasional threat down the right but Liverpool looked short of ideas in the final third when faced with the massed blue shirts of Brighton. The in-form visitors had a chance to take the lead midway through the first half when the ball fell to Dan Burn after Neal Maupay's shot was blocked but he skied over from close range. Klopp's men went in at half-time having failed to muster a single shot on goal. The second half shaped up like the first, with Liverpool probing but looking short of inspiration. Instead it was Brighton who took the lead with the game's first shot on target. Burn, on the left side of the Liverpool area, headed a cross-field ball back across goal and Alzate combined with Leandro Trossard to steer the ball into the net. Klopp threw on Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and Divock Origi for Georginio Wijnaldum and Xherdan Shaqiri as he sought a way back into the match. Salah flashed a left-footed shot over after Trent Alexander-Arnold fizzed a ball across the area and Adam Webster produced a superb, muscular challenge to stop the Egypt forward in his tracks. But Brighton were still threatening at the other end. Kelleher saved smartly from Pascal Gross and Trossard also forced a save. The result lifts Brighton to 15th in the table, 10 points clear of the relegation zone. "It's not an easy place to get points," said Potter. "They're a top team. We're just trying our best in this league. "Every game we face a huge task. It's one for the supporters and everyone involved in the club. It's not often a club like us come here and win."

Brighton deal huge blow to Liverpool's Premier League title hopes

Australian Open chief Craig Tiley said he was "absolutely confident" the tournament will start next week despite a fresh coronavirus case that halted warm-up tournaments and forced hundreds of players and officials into isolation on Thursday.

The case, a worker at one of the Melbourne tournament's designated quarantine hotels, has caused yet more chaos before the year's first tennis Grand Slam, which has already been delayed three weeks over coronavirus problems.

But Tiley said the Australian Open would start as scheduled on Monday, and that there were no plans to cancel. Play was suspended at six warm-up tournaments in Melbourne on Thursday.

"We're absolutely confident the Australian Open will go ahead," Tiley told reporters. "The plan is to continue to play tomorrow as planned. If we have to go through this again, we'll go through this again.

"We have three-and-a-half weeks of tennis to play and we'll go in as scheduled."

The incident highlights the difficulty of holding large-scale, international sports events during the pandemic, as officials wrestle over how to safely hold this year's Tokyo Olympics. &nbsp;

Health officials insisted the risk to players and officials, who queued up for coronavirus tests on Thursday, was "low".

Victoria state Health Minister Martin Foley said the 520 people ordered to isolate and get tested were casual contacts, stressing "we are not as concerned about them".

"But out of an abundance of caution we want to ensure we leave no stone unturned in how we follow up and deal with anybody who may have had contact with this individual," he said.

Dedicated facilities were set up to ensure they all get tested quickly, with results often returned within 24 hours.

The Australian Open draw, which was scheduled to take place on Thursday, has been pushed back by a day.

<h2>- Formula One fiasco -</h2>

Stefanos Tsitsipas and Stan Wawrinka were reportedly among those affected by the mini-lockdown although the biggest names of the game, including Serena Williams, Novak Djokovic and Rafael Nadal, were not among those isolated as they spent their mandatory 14-day quarantine in Adelaide.

More than 1,000 players, coaches and officials flew into largely virus-free Australia last month, sparking debate over the whether the tournament should be held during a coronavirus pandemic.

Aggressive restrictions on incoming travel have meant Australia has been one of the world's most successful countries in dealing with the pandemic and one of the few still able to have spectators at sports events.

Daily crowds of between 25,000 and 30,000 are expected at the Australian Open.

Earlier, Victoria state opposition leader Michael O'Brien demanded a definitive call on the Australian Open within 48 hours.

"We don't want to see a situation as we did with the Grand Prix, where crowds were literally turning up, only to be turned away," the Melbourne Herald Sun quoted O'Brien as saying.

"I think people are entitled to know what's happening, and the government should be making their minds up in the next 24 to 48 hours."

Last year's Formula One Grand Prix in Melbourne, the traditional season curtain-raiser, was cancelled just hours before the first practice session after a McLaren team member tested positive.

The late decision left fans fuming as they queued to get in.

While resentment has been bubbling on social media over whether the tournament should go ahead, opinions were mixed on the streets near Melbourne Park, the Australian Open venue.&nbsp;

"I'm just disappointed because the Australian Open seemed from the beginning about profits and not the safety of the public," said John Reilly, echoing some of the online sentiment.&nbsp;

But Melbourne resident Greg Rodgers said the two-week spectacle represented a "return to normalcy".

Victoria had gone 28 days without a locally acquired infection before the latest case, which prompted a tightening of restrictions around wearing masks.

State authorities are extremely wary of coronavirus cases after Melbourne spent four months in lockdown until late October.

Australian Open chief Craig Tiley said he was "absolutely confident" the tournament will start next week despite a fresh coronavirus case that halted warm-up tournaments and forced hundreds of players and officials into isolation on Thursday.

Australian Open chief Craig Tiley said he was "absolutely confident" the tournament will start next week despite a fresh coronavirus case that halted warm-up tournaments and forced hundreds of players and officials into isolation on Thursday. The case, a worker at one of the Melbourne tournament's designated quarantine hotels, has caused yet more chaos before the year's first tennis Grand Slam, which has already been delayed three weeks over coronavirus problems. But Tiley said the Australian Open would start as scheduled on Monday, and that there were no plans to cancel. Play was suspended at six warm-up tournaments in Melbourne on Thursday. "We're absolutely confident the Australian Open will go ahead," Tiley told reporters. "The plan is to continue to play tomorrow as planned. If we have to go through this again, we'll go through this again. "We have three-and-a-half weeks of tennis to play and we'll go in as scheduled." The incident highlights the difficulty of holding large-scale, international sports events during the pandemic, as officials wrestle over how to safely hold this year's Tokyo Olympics. Health officials insisted the risk to players and officials, who queued up for coronavirus tests on Thursday, was "low". Victoria state Health Minister Martin Foley said the 520 people ordered to isolate and get tested were casual contacts, stressing "we are not as concerned about them". "But out of an abundance of caution we want to ensure we leave no stone unturned in how we follow up and deal with anybody who may have had contact with this individual," he said. Dedicated facilities were set up to ensure they all get tested quickly, with results often returned within 24 hours. The Australian Open draw, which was scheduled to take place on Thursday, has been pushed back by a day. - Formula One fiasco - Stefanos Tsitsipas and Stan Wawrinka were reportedly among those affected by the mini-lockdown although the biggest names of the game, including Serena Williams, Novak Djokovic and Rafael Nadal, were not among those isolated as they spent their mandatory 14-day quarantine in Adelaide. More than 1,000 players, coaches and officials flew into largely virus-free Australia last month, sparking debate over the whether the tournament should be held during a coronavirus pandemic. Aggressive restrictions on incoming travel have meant Australia has been one of the world's most successful countries in dealing with the pandemic and one of the few still able to have spectators at sports events. Daily crowds of between 25,000 and 30,000 are expected at the Australian Open. Earlier, Victoria state opposition leader Michael O'Brien demanded a definitive call on the Australian Open within 48 hours. "We don't want to see a situation as we did with the Grand Prix, where crowds were literally turning up, only to be turned away," the Melbourne Herald Sun quoted O'Brien as saying. "I think people are entitled to know what's happening, and the government should be making their minds up in the next 24 to 48 hours." Last year's Formula One Grand Prix in Melbourne, the traditional season curtain-raiser, was cancelled just hours before the first practice session after a McLaren team member tested positive. The late decision left fans fuming as they queued to get in. While resentment has been bubbling on social media over whether the tournament should go ahead, opinions were mixed on the streets near Melbourne Park, the Australian Open venue. "I'm just disappointed because the Australian Open seemed from the beginning about profits and not the safety of the public," said John Reilly, echoing some of the online sentiment. But Melbourne resident Greg Rodgers said the two-week spectacle represented a "return to normalcy". Victoria had gone 28 days without a locally acquired infection before the latest case, which prompted a tightening of restrictions around wearing masks. State authorities are extremely wary of coronavirus cases after Melbourne spent four months in lockdown until late October.

Australian Open boss 'confident' event will go ahead despite Covid case

Lionel Messi has made no contact with any other club including the likes of Paris Saint-Germain and Manchester City as rumours surrounding the Argentine's future continues to make headlines. Messi has been clear that he will wait for the ongoing season to end to make a decision regarding his future. &nbsp;

According to a report in Goal, Messi has not spoken to any club and is yet to decide on his future. Notably, Messi's contract at Barcelona ends at the end of the season and the Argentine megastar is free to sign pre-contract with non-Spanish clubs. &nbsp;

Messi has been linked with several clubs with PSG and Man City being the most prominent of names in the list.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/its-not-fair-ronald-koeman-slams-psgs-di-maria-for-trying-to-unsettle-lionel-messi-361369" hreflang="en">'It’s not fair...': Ronald Koeman slams PSG's Di Maria for trying to unsettle Lionel Messi</a>

With Mauricio Pochettino taking over the charge in PSG, it was reported that the Ligue 1 giants could make a move for Messi. However, there has been no contact between the two. Interestingly, the likes of Neymar and Angel Di Maria have openly expressed their interest in having Messi as their club team-mates. Messi is yet to contact Manchester City where former Barcelona boss Pep Guardiola is in charge.&nbsp;

The report adds that Messi is tired of media speculation and it will be he who reveals his future at the end of the 2020-21 season. &nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-2020-boss-faces-resignation-calls-over-sexist-remarks-361240" hreflang="en">Tokyo 2020 boss faces resignation calls over sexist remarks</a>

Messi's future in Barcelona is hanging in balance with Barcelona presidential elections coming up. Joan Laporta, Toni Freixa and Victor Font are the three candidates in the election.&nbsp;

Recently, Messi's contract details worth €555 million (£491m/$674m) were revealed by Spanish newspaper El Mundo. The daily reported that the four-year-contract includes fixed and bonus payment which amounts to €138m (£112m/$167m) in annual earnings. Barcelona announced their intention to take legal action over the leak.&nbsp;

Lionel Messi has made no contact with any other club including the likes of Paris Saint-Germain and Manchester City as rumours surrounding the Argentine's future continues to make headlines.

Lionel Messi has made no contact with any other club including the likes of Paris Saint-Germain and Manchester City as rumours surrounding the Argentine's future continues to make headlines. Messi has been clear that he will wait for the ongoing season to end to make a decision regarding his future. According to a report in Goal, Messi has not spoken to any club and is yet to decide on his future. Notably, Messi's contract at Barcelona ends at the end of the season and the Argentine megastar is free to sign pre-contract with non-Spanish clubs. Messi has been linked with several clubs with PSG and Man City being the most prominent of names in the list. ALSO READ: 'It’s not fair...': Ronald Koeman slams PSG's Di Maria for trying to unsettle Lionel Messi With Mauricio Pochettino taking over the charge in PSG, it was reported that the Ligue 1 giants could make a move for Messi. However, there has been no contact between the two. Interestingly, the likes of Neymar and Angel Di Maria have openly expressed their interest in having Messi as their club team-mates. Messi is yet to contact Manchester City where former Barcelona boss Pep Guardiola is in charge. The report adds that Messi is tired of media speculation and it will be he who reveals his future at the end of the 2020-21 season. ALSO READ: Tokyo 2020 boss faces resignation calls over sexist remarks Messi's future in Barcelona is hanging in balance with Barcelona presidential elections coming up. Joan Laporta, Toni Freixa and Victor Font are the three candidates in the election. Recently, Messi's contract details worth €555 million (£491m/$674m) were revealed by Spanish newspaper El Mundo. The daily reported that the four-year-contract includes fixed and bonus payment which amounts to €138m (£112m/$167m) in annual earnings. Barcelona announced their intention to take legal action over the leak.

Lionel Messi denies contact with PSG and Man City over transfer: Report

After conquering Australia, India&nbsp;are&nbsp;set to host England in a four-match Test series starting from Friday. While Indian skipper Virat Kohli has already confirmed that Rishabh Pant will start the first Test ahead of Wriddhiman Saha as the specialist wicket-keeper, former Indian batsman Gautam Gambhir has&nbsp;suggested his playing XI for the first Chennai Test.&nbsp;

With India back on their home soil, the playing XI combination changes a lot for the hosts as compared to starting line-up in away conditions. Given the history of Chennai wickets, India&nbsp;are&nbsp;likely to play three spinners and two pacers.&nbsp; Even veteran pacer Ishant Sharma is back in the team but Gambhir has picked Mohammed Siraj to start alongside Jasprit&nbsp;Bumrah, who will be playing his first home Test.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Gambhir,&nbsp;speaking on Star Sports&nbsp;Game Plan, went with the opening duo of Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill with Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli, Ajinkya Rahane to follow. Gambhir picked the spin troika of Ravichandran Ashwin, Kuldeep Yadav and&nbsp;Axar&nbsp;Patel.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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With Ravindra Jadeja out of the England Test series with an injury,&nbsp;Axar&nbsp;Patel is likely to make his Test debut.&nbsp;Axar's&nbsp;ability with the bat makes him an ideal replacement for Jadeja. However, Washington Sundar, who made a sensational debut against Australia, is also in contention to start in the Chennai Test.&nbsp;

Gautam Gambhir's Indian playing XI for first Test vs England: Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli (c), Ajinkya Rahane, Cheteshwar Pujara,&nbsp;Axar&nbsp;Patel, Rishabh Pant (wk), Ravichandran Ashwin, Jasprit&nbsp;Bumrah, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Siraj.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-briefly-discussed-it-in-team-meeting-virat-kohli-on-farmers-protest-361339" hreflang="en">We briefly discussed it in team meeting: Virat Kohli on farmers' protest</a>

India will play four Tests against England followed by three ODIs and five T20Is.&nbsp;

After conquering Australia, India are set to host England in a four-match Test series starting from Friday. While Indian skipper Virat Kohli has already confirmed that Rishabh Pant will start the first Test ahead of Wriddhiman Saha as the specialist wicket-keeper, former Indian batsman Gautam Gambhir has suggested his playing XI for the first Chennai Test.

After conquering Australia, India are set to host England in a four-match Test series starting from Friday. While Indian skipper Virat Kohli has already confirmed that Rishabh Pant will start the first Test ahead of Wriddhiman Saha as the specialist wicket-keeper, former Indian batsman Gautam Gambhir has suggested his playing XI for the first Chennai Test. With India back on their home soil, the playing XI combination changes a lot for the hosts as compared to starting line-up in away conditions. Given the history of Chennai wickets, India are likely to play three spinners and two pacers. Even veteran pacer Ishant Sharma is back in the team but Gambhir has picked Mohammed Siraj to start alongside Jasprit Bumrah, who will be playing his first home Test. Gambhir, speaking on Star Sports Game Plan, went with the opening duo of Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill with Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli, Ajinkya Rahane to follow. Gambhir picked the spin troika of Ravichandran Ashwin, Kuldeep Yadav and Axar Patel. ALSO READ: Indian skipper Virat Kohli reveals the greatest moment of his life With Ravindra Jadeja out of the England Test series with an injury, Axar Patel is likely to make his Test debut. Axar's ability with the bat makes him an ideal replacement for Jadeja. However, Washington Sundar, who made a sensational debut against Australia, is also in contention to start in the Chennai Test. Gautam Gambhir's Indian playing XI for first Test vs England: Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli (c), Ajinkya Rahane, Cheteshwar Pujara, Axar Patel, Rishabh Pant (wk), Ravichandran Ashwin, Jasprit Bumrah, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Siraj. ALSO READ: We briefly discussed it in team meeting: Virat Kohli on farmers' protest India will play four Tests against England followed by three ODIs and five T20Is.

India vs England: Gautam Gambhir reveals his playing XI for 1st Test

Bhuvneshwar Kumar,&nbsp;one of India’s most prolific pacers in recent history, has teamed up with&nbsp;FrontRow to create and deliver an online course on fast-bowling, aimed at budding cricketers of all ages and skill level.&nbsp;The two-time highest wicket-taker of the Indian Premier League, Bhuvneshwar rose to prominence after his impressive T20 debut against Pakistan and a tournament-winning performance in the tri-series versus Sri Lanka and West Indies.

Now, he has donned on the coach’s hat for his exclusive course.&nbsp;“I believe it is never too late to learn cricket. It is a skill-based game, so even if you aren’t a natural you can pick it up whenever.”, says Kumar

Throughout the course, the right-arm pacer hailing from Meerut, shares his expert insights, tips, and instructions that will help both beginners who want to learn fast-bowling or young cricketers who want to improve their game.&nbsp;“Fast bowling is certainly tough because of the toll it takes on your body. However, if you are committed and dedicated, and pay attention to certain technical aspects, you can learn and improve.”, assures Kumar.

Talking about the moment that spurred him on to pick up the game, Bhuvi, as he is fondly known, recalls, “My first cricket memory is of watching India’s 1999 World Cup game against New Zealand. I remember I was watching the game at home with my sister and I cried a lot when we lost. I will never forget that moment because that was when I realized how passionate I was about this game.”

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Like most people in this country, Bhuvi started out playing gully cricket, where he did not quite realise his real potential for pace bowling. He highlighted the importance of a good mentor by recalling the incident that set him down the correct path.&nbsp;“In gully cricket, everybody thinks of themselves as an all-rounder. When I went to the academy for the first time with my sister, and the coach asked me what I did, I said everything. He saw something in me that made him hand me the ball, and since then I have never looked back.”

Talking about the course, in which the pacer has shared his experience and learnings for the first time,&nbsp;Bhuvi says,&nbsp;“I have put this course together keeping everybody in mind, whether you are just a fan who wants to begin playing or you already play but want to refine your game and get insights into the mind of a professional cricketer. However, I strongly advise all budding cricketers to keep practicing. Coaches can share their teachings with you, but there is no short cut to the hard work you must put in”.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-briefly-discussed-it-in-team-meeting-virat-kohli-on-farmers-protest-361339" hreflang="en">We briefly discussed it in team meeting: Virat Kohli on farmers' protest</a>

As he steps into the shoes of being a mentor for young cricketers, he talks about the stars he emulated and recognizes Australian pace legend Glen McGrath’s influence on his style.&nbsp;“I soon realized that given my lean physique, I wouldn’t be able to imitate the bulkier Shoaib Akhtar. Instead, I looked to Glen McGrath for inspiration. His strength and his line and length really impressed me. Till this day, I try to learn and emulate his seam position and how he makes the ball cut away from the wicket.”, says Kumar.

Bhuvneshwar Kumar, one of India’s most prolific pacers in recent history, has teamed up with FrontRow to create and deliver an online course on fast-bowling, aimed at budding cricketers of all ages and skill level.

Bhuvneshwar Kumar, one of India’s most prolific pacers in recent history, has teamed up with FrontRow to create and deliver an online course on fast-bowling, aimed at budding cricketers of all ages and skill level. The two-time highest wicket-taker of the Indian Premier League, Bhuvneshwar rose to prominence after his impressive T20 debut against Pakistan and a tournament-winning performance in the tri-series versus Sri Lanka and West Indies. Now, he has donned on the coach’s hat for his exclusive course. “I believe it is never too late to learn cricket. It is a skill-based game, so even if you aren’t a natural you can pick it up whenever.”, says Kumar Throughout the course, the right-arm pacer hailing from Meerut, shares his expert insights, tips, and instructions that will help both beginners who want to learn fast-bowling or young cricketers who want to improve their game. “Fast bowling is certainly tough because of the toll it takes on your body. However, if you are committed and dedicated, and pay attention to certain technical aspects, you can learn and improve.”, assures Kumar. Talking about the moment that spurred him on to pick up the game, Bhuvi, as he is fondly known, recalls, “My first cricket memory is of watching India’s 1999 World Cup game against New Zealand. I remember I was watching the game at home with my sister and I cried a lot when we lost. I will never forget that moment because that was when I realized how passionate I was about this game.” ALSO READ: Indian skipper Virat Kohli reveals the greatest moment of his life Like most people in this country, Bhuvi started out playing gully cricket, where he did not quite realise his real potential for pace bowling. He highlighted the importance of a good mentor by recalling the incident that set him down the correct path. “In gully cricket, everybody thinks of themselves as an all-rounder. When I went to the academy for the first time with my sister, and the coach asked me what I did, I said everything. He saw something in me that made him hand me the ball, and since then I have never looked back.” Talking about the course, in which the pacer has shared his experience and learnings for the first time, Bhuvi says, “I have put this course together keeping everybody in mind, whether you are just a fan who wants to begin playing or you already play but want to refine your game and get insights into the mind of a professional cricketer. However, I strongly advise all budding cricketers to keep practicing. Coaches can share their teachings with you, but there is no short cut to the hard work you must put in”. ALSO READ: We briefly discussed it in team meeting: Virat Kohli on farmers' protest As he steps into the shoes of being a mentor for young cricketers, he talks about the stars he emulated and recognizes Australian pace legend Glen McGrath’s influence on his style. “I soon realized that given my lean physique, I wouldn’t be able to imitate the bulkier Shoaib Akhtar. Instead, I looked to Glen McGrath for inspiration. His strength and his line and length really impressed me. Till this day, I try to learn and emulate his seam position and how he makes the ball cut away from the wicket.”, says Kumar.

You don’t need to be a natural to do well in cricket: Bhuvneshwar Kumar

Barcelona manager Ronald Koeman has slammed Paris Saint-Germain star Angel&nbsp;Di&nbsp;Maria for allegedly trying to unsettle Lionel Messi ahead of the UEFA Champions League&nbsp;round of 16 encounter between the two sides.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Messi is out of contract after the end of the ongoing 2020-21 season and is free to sign pre-contract with non-Spanish clubs with Paris Saint-Germain one of the clubs interested in the Argentine forward. When asked about links of Messi to PSG, Di Maria sounded&nbsp;optimistic as the Argentine said that he hopes PSG sign Messi.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The comments by Di Maria&nbsp;has&nbsp;irked Koeman, who said that the statement "seems to be lack of respect" while terming it as disrespectful towards Barcelona.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"Yes, yes, I hope so,"&nbsp;Di Maria said when asked whether Messi could join him in Paris.&nbsp;"There are many possibilities. We have to be calm and things will develop."&nbsp;

&nbsp;"It seems to me to be a lack of respect,"&nbsp;Koeman said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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"It’s wrong to say such of thing, especially ahead of the Champions League game.&nbsp;It’s not fair, and I don’t think it’s respectful toward Barcelona to speak like that about a player who’s ours. They talk a lot about Leo, who plays for Barcelona. Besides, we have a tie against them."&nbsp;

Messi had asked Barcelona to allow him to leave the club last summer but the Argentine ended up staying with the Spanish giants following a public spat with the club's board.&nbsp;

Recently, Koeman had said he was not confident about keeping Messi at&nbsp;Nou&nbsp;Camp.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/its-always-easier-when-harry-kane-is-not-playing-chelsea-boss-thomas-tuchel-on-london-derby-361152" hreflang="en">'It's always easier when Harry Kane is not playing': Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel on London derby</a>

"I’m not confident about that,"&nbsp;Koeman told The Athletic.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"I’m hopeful, yes, about this because he’s still a great player and he’s still winning matches for us, for the team. I’m enjoying being his coach, if you look at his qualities every day in the training sessions, it’s incredible. Of course, he came as a young kid to Barcelona. And I still don’t see Leo Messi in another shirt other than the Barca shirt."&nbsp;

Barcelona manager Ronald Koeman has slammed Paris Saint-Germain star Angel Di Maria for allegedly trying to unsettle Lionel Messi ahead of the UEFA Champions League round of 16 encounter between the two sides.

Barcelona manager Ronald Koeman has slammed Paris Saint-Germain star Angel Di Maria for allegedly trying to unsettle Lionel Messi ahead of the UEFA Champions League round of 16 encounter between the two sides. Messi is out of contract after the end of the ongoing 2020-21 season and is free to sign pre-contract with non-Spanish clubs with Paris Saint-Germain one of the clubs interested in the Argentine forward. When asked about links of Messi to PSG, Di Maria sounded optimistic as the Argentine said that he hopes PSG sign Messi. The comments by Di Maria has irked Koeman, who said that the statement "seems to be lack of respect" while terming it as disrespectful towards Barcelona. "Yes, yes, I hope so," Di Maria said when asked whether Messi could join him in Paris. "There are many possibilities. We have to be calm and things will develop." "It seems to me to be a lack of respect," Koeman said. ALSO READ: Brighton deal huge blow to Liverpool's Premier League title hopes "It’s wrong to say such of thing, especially ahead of the Champions League game. It’s not fair, and I don’t think it’s respectful toward Barcelona to speak like that about a player who’s ours. They talk a lot about Leo, who plays for Barcelona. Besides, we have a tie against them." Messi had asked Barcelona to allow him to leave the club last summer but the Argentine ended up staying with the Spanish giants following a public spat with the club's board. Recently, Koeman had said he was not confident about keeping Messi at Nou Camp. ALSO READ: 'It's always easier when Harry Kane is not playing': Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel on London derby "I’m not confident about that," Koeman told The Athletic. "I’m hopeful, yes, about this because he’s still a great player and he’s still winning matches for us, for the team. I’m enjoying being his coach, if you look at his qualities every day in the training sessions, it’s incredible. Of course, he came as a young kid to Barcelona. And I still don’t see Leo Messi in another shirt other than the Barca shirt."

'It’s not fair...': Ronald Koeman slams PSG's Di Maria for trying to unsettle Lionel Messi

India captain Virat Kohli on Thursday said the ongoing farmers' protest against new agriculture laws has come up for discussion in his team meeting where everyone has "expressed what they had to".

Kohli, speaking online to the media ahead of the first Test against England here, did not divulge the details of the "brief" conversation on the matter. "Like any issue present in the country, we do talk about it and everyone had expressed what they had to," Kohli said when asked about the agitation that has been going on for over two months.

"That's about it. We briefly spoke about it in the team meeting and we carried on discussing the team and game plans," he added.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rishabh-pant-to-start-in-first-test-against-england-confirms-virat-kohli-361331" hreflang="en">Rishabh Pant to start in first Test against England, confirms Virat Kohli</a>

On Wednesday, Kohli was among a host of Indian cricket stars, including the iconic Sachin Tendulkar who urged for unity in the country after some international celebrities like US pop star Rihanna called attention to the plight of the agitating farmers on social media.

"Let us all stay united in this hour of disagreements. Farmers are an integral part of our country and I'm sure an amicable solution will be found between all parties to bring about peace and move forward together," he had tweeted. India and England will lock horns in a four-match Test series starting Friday.

Thousands of farmers, mostly from Punjab, Haryana and western Uttar Pradesh, have been camping at Delhi's borders for over two months demanding that the three new farm laws be repealed. Farmer groups have alleged that these laws, which allow farmers to sell their produce directly to a buyer, will end the traditional mandi system and the guarantee of a Minimum Support Price for their crops. The government has rejected these apprehensions as misplaced.

India captain Virat Kohli on Thursday said the ongoing farmers' protest against new agriculture laws has come up for discussion in his team meeting where everyone has "expressed what they had to".

India captain Virat Kohli on Thursday said the ongoing farmers' protest against new agriculture laws has come up for discussion in his team meeting where everyone has "expressed what they had to". Kohli, speaking online to the media ahead of the first Test against England here, did not divulge the details of the "brief" conversation on the matter. "Like any issue present in the country, we do talk about it and everyone had expressed what they had to," Kohli said when asked about the agitation that has been going on for over two months. "That's about it. We briefly spoke about it in the team meeting and we carried on discussing the team and game plans," he added. ALSO READ: Rishabh Pant to start in first Test against England, confirms Virat Kohli On Wednesday, Kohli was among a host of Indian cricket stars, including the iconic Sachin Tendulkar who urged for unity in the country after some international celebrities like US pop star Rihanna called attention to the plight of the agitating farmers on social media. "Let us all stay united in this hour of disagreements. Farmers are an integral part of our country and I'm sure an amicable solution will be found between all parties to bring about peace and move forward together," he had tweeted. India and England will lock horns in a four-match Test series starting Friday. Thousands of farmers, mostly from Punjab, Haryana and western Uttar Pradesh, have been camping at Delhi's borders for over two months demanding that the three new farm laws be repealed. Farmer groups have alleged that these laws, which allow farmers to sell their produce directly to a buyer, will end the traditional mandi system and the guarantee of a Minimum Support Price for their crops. The government has rejected these apprehensions as misplaced.

We briefly discussed it in team meeting: Virat Kohli on farmers' protest

Indian skipper Virat Kohli on Thursday confirmed that Rishabh Pant will start the first Test against England as the wicket-keeper of the side.&nbsp;India&nbsp;have&nbsp;over the past couple of&nbsp;home&nbsp;seasons have preferred&nbsp;Wriddhiman Saha over Pant as the specialist wicket-keeper&nbsp;due to the former being one of the finest with the gloves.&nbsp;

However,&nbsp;Pant's&nbsp;recent exploits and heroic knocks against Australia&nbsp;have helped the southpaw regain his place in the playing XI when it comes to home Test matches. Interestingly,&nbsp;Pant's&nbsp;last home Test was back in 2018, against the West Indies.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Kohli, lauding&nbsp;Pant's&nbsp;impact against Australia, said that the 23-year-old is in a good headspace and they want to continue with him. The Indian skipper added that the entire&nbsp;Indian team is happy to see Pant flourish.&nbsp;

Pant was India's highest run-scorer in the recently concluded series against Australia despite missing the Adelaide Test. The southpaw accumulated 274 runs in five innings at an average of&nbsp;68.50.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/3-spinners-and-2-pacers-team-indias-predicted-playing-xi-vs-england-for-1st-test-361313" hreflang="en">3 spinners and 2 pacers? Team India's predicted playing XI vs England for 1st Test</a>

"Yes, Rishabh (Pant) will start tomorrow. He had a massive impact in Australia and is in a good headspace and we want to continue with him. He's come along nicely after the IPL and he's worked hard in his fitness and his game. We were very happy to see him flourish,” said Kohli in the pre-match press conference on the eve of the first Test against India in Chennai.&nbsp;

Kohli will be back leading the team after missing the last three Tests against Australia to be with his wife on the birth of their first child. Ajinkya Rahane, in Kohli's absence, led the Indian team impeccably well&nbsp;as India won the series 2-1.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Rahane has always lauded Kohli for his leadership qualities and on&nbsp;Wednesday, said that he is happy taking a back seat as Kohli is back leading the team. Praising Rahane for his splendid leadership qualities which he showed in the series against Australia, Kohli said that&nbsp;everyone in the team only wants India to win.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-tops-celebrity-brand-valuation-study-for-fourth-consecutive-year-361275" hreflang="en">Virat Kohli tops celebrity brand valuation study for fourth consecutive year</a>

"The fact that Jinks (Rahane) mentioned what he did because the relationship between us and the whole team is one of trust: we only want India to win. He fulfilled his role with flying&nbsp;colours&nbsp;in Australia," Kohli said.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the Indian team will have an optional practice session before the match starts on Friday in Chennai.&nbsp;&nbsp;

India last lost a home Test series back in 2012 – against England – and will look to continue their domination on home soil.&nbsp;

Indian skipper Virat Kohli on Thursday confirmed that Rishabh Pant will start the first Test against England as the wicket-keeper of the side. India have over the past couple of home seasons have preferred Wriddhiman Saha over Pant as the specialist wicket-keeper due to the former being one of the finest with the gloves.

Indian skipper Virat Kohli on Thursday confirmed that Rishabh Pant will start the first Test against England as the wicket-keeper of the side. India have over the past couple of home seasons have preferred Wriddhiman Saha over Pant as the specialist wicket-keeper due to the former being one of the finest with the gloves. However, Pant's recent exploits and heroic knocks against Australia have helped the southpaw regain his place in the playing XI when it comes to home Test matches. Interestingly, Pant's last home Test was back in 2018, against the West Indies. Kohli, lauding Pant's impact against Australia, said that the 23-year-old is in a good headspace and they want to continue with him. The Indian skipper added that the entire Indian team is happy to see Pant flourish. Pant was India's highest run-scorer in the recently concluded series against Australia despite missing the Adelaide Test. The southpaw accumulated 274 runs in five innings at an average of 68.50. ALSO READ: 3 spinners and 2 pacers? Team India's predicted playing XI vs England for 1st Test "Yes, Rishabh (Pant) will start tomorrow. He had a massive impact in Australia and is in a good headspace and we want to continue with him. He's come along nicely after the IPL and he's worked hard in his fitness and his game. We were very happy to see him flourish,” said Kohli in the pre-match press conference on the eve of the first Test against India in Chennai. Kohli will be back leading the team after missing the last three Tests against Australia to be with his wife on the birth of their first child. Ajinkya Rahane, in Kohli's absence, led the Indian team impeccably well as India won the series 2-1. Rahane has always lauded Kohli for his leadership qualities and on Wednesday, said that he is happy taking a back seat as Kohli is back leading the team. Praising Rahane for his splendid leadership qualities which he showed in the series against Australia, Kohli said that everyone in the team only wants India to win. ALSO READ: Virat Kohli tops celebrity brand valuation study for fourth consecutive year "The fact that Jinks (Rahane) mentioned what he did because the relationship between us and the whole team is one of trust: we only want India to win. He fulfilled his role with flying colours in Australia," Kohli said. Meanwhile, the Indian team will have an optional practice session before the match starts on Friday in Chennai. India last lost a home Test series back in 2012 – against England – and will look to continue their domination on home soil.

Rishabh Pant to start in first Test against England, confirms Virat Kohli

India and England are set to kick-start the four-Test series with the opener scheduled to be played at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai from Friday. Both India and England are&nbsp;heading into the series on the back of a series wins against Australia and Sri Lanka respectively. While the series promises to be a cracking contest with both England and India boasting some world-class players, fans are eagerly waiting to witness the clash of giants.&nbsp;

India have almost a fully-fit squad with a couple of players missing the Test series due to injuries suffered in the tour of Australia. The likes of Hanuma Vihari, Ravindra Jadeja and Mohammed Shami are missing but the hosts still boast a strong squad which might&nbsp;lead to selection headaches in the Indian camp.&nbsp;

While the batting order looks almost set with the likes of Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli and Ajinkya Rahane, all eyes will be on the bowling combination of the Indian attack as the match will be played in Chennai, which has assisted spinners&nbsp;over the years.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-tops-celebrity-brand-valuation-study-for-fourth-consecutive-year-361275" hreflang="en">Virat Kohli tops celebrity brand valuation study for fourth consecutive year</a>

However, with two back-to-back Test matches scheduled and a debutant curator V Ramesh Kumar taking charge of the proceedings, the MA Chidambaram Stadium could&nbsp;play equal field for both pacers and spinners early on. But India&nbsp;are&nbsp;likely to go with three spinners given England's recent struggle against spin bowling.&nbsp;

India last lost a home Test series back in the year 2012 – against England – and has since lost only one Test match, in 2016, on home soil. Given India's sheer domination at home, the Virat Kohli-led outfit starts as heavy&nbsp;favourites&nbsp;to not only win the first Test but also to win the series.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/englands-zak-crawley-ruled-out-of-first-two-tests-vs-india-361246" hreflang="en">England's Zak Crawley ruled out of first two Tests vs India</a>

India predicted playing XI:&nbsp;Rohit&nbsp;Sharma,&nbsp;Shubman&nbsp;Gill, Cheteshwar&nbsp;Pujara, Virat&nbsp;Kohli,&nbsp;Ajinkya Rahane, Rishabh Pant, Ravichandran Ashwin, Washington Sundar/Axar&nbsp;Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit&nbsp;Bumrah, Ishant Sharma&nbsp;

India and England are set to kick-start the four-Test series with the opener scheduled to be played at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai from Friday. Both India and England are heading into the series on the back of a series wins against Australia and Sri Lanka respectively.

India and England are set to kick-start the four-Test series with the opener scheduled to be played at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai from Friday. Both India and England are heading into the series on the back of a series wins against Australia and Sri Lanka respectively. While the series promises to be a cracking contest with both England and India boasting some world-class players, fans are eagerly waiting to witness the clash of giants. India have almost a fully-fit squad with a couple of players missing the Test series due to injuries suffered in the tour of Australia. The likes of Hanuma Vihari, Ravindra Jadeja and Mohammed Shami are missing but the hosts still boast a strong squad which might lead to selection headaches in the Indian camp. While the batting order looks almost set with the likes of Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli and Ajinkya Rahane, all eyes will be on the bowling combination of the Indian attack as the match will be played in Chennai, which has assisted spinners over the years. ALSO READ: Virat Kohli tops celebrity brand valuation study for fourth consecutive year However, with two back-to-back Test matches scheduled and a debutant curator V Ramesh Kumar taking charge of the proceedings, the MA Chidambaram Stadium could play equal field for both pacers and spinners early on. But India are likely to go with three spinners given England's recent struggle against spin bowling. India last lost a home Test series back in the year 2012 – against England – and has since lost only one Test match, in 2016, on home soil. Given India's sheer domination at home, the Virat Kohli-led outfit starts as heavy favourites to not only win the first Test but also to win the series. ALSO READ: England's Zak Crawley ruled out of first two Tests vs India India predicted playing XI: Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli, Ajinkya Rahane, Rishabh Pant, Ravichandran Ashwin, Washington Sundar/Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Ishant Sharma

3 spinners and 2 pacers? Team India's predicted playing XI vs England for 1st Test

Tokyo Olympics boss Yoshiro Mori, whose sexist remarks and refusal to resign have sparked outrage in Japan, is a former prime minister known for embarrassing gaffes who led one of the country's least popular governments ever.

From continuing a game of golf after a deadly marine accident off Japan's coast to publicly sneering at the performance of a popular Japanese figure skater, the 83-year-old is no stranger to public missteps.

On Thursday he apologised for saying women "have difficulty" speaking concisely, but then dug a deeper hole when he insisted he had heard complaints that women speak at length.

Mori served as prime minister for just one year between April 2000 and 2001, a short term marked by controversy.

Soon after taking office he declared Japan "a country of gods centred around the emperor" -- a highly controversial statement seen as potentially violating the constitution, which separates religion and politics.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-2020-boss-faces-resignation-calls-over-sexist-remarks-361240" hreflang="en">Tokyo 2020 boss faces resignation calls over sexist remarks</a>

As prime minister, Mori started with an approval rating of around 30 percent that slid downwards during his term, partly due to his repeated gaffes.

During an election campaign, he said he hoped swing voters who might not support his ruling Liberal Democratic Party would "sleep in on polling day".

His comments backfired and were seen as contributing to a decline in the number of seats won by the party in the lower house.

And towards the end of his term he was widely criticised for continuing a golf game after being informed of the accidental sinking of a Japanese ship by a US submarine.

Since retiring from politics in 2012, Mori has been heavily involved in promoting sports in Japan and played a key role in bringing Asia's first Rugby World Cup to the country in 2019.

An avid rugby fan and amateur player himself, he served as chairman of the Japan Rugby Football Union for 10 years until his term expired in 2015.

He subsequently served as honorary chairman of the organisation but quit just months before the Rugby World Cup, citing health problems.

<h2>- Cancer survivor -</h2>

Mori has spoken publicly about his battle with cancer, even citing his health struggles as reason to be hopeful about the Games going ahead following their postponement in 2020.

"We have no choice but to have hope. I myself suffered cancer... But I was saved by a new drug," he said then.

"I am here, allowed to live... Let us hope for these things."

His remarks have not always been so tactful, and he drew fire during the 2014 Sochi Winter Olympics for pouring scorn on Japanese figure-skating heroine Mao Asada following a disastrous routine in Russia.

"That girl, she always falls over whenever it's important," Mori sniped amid widespread disappointment after Asada slipped on her trademark jump to end in lowly 16th position.

Media, fans and fellow athletes hit out at Mori after he said the out-of-form skater should have withdrawn from the team competition.

"She slipped over just like that. We knew Japan couldn't win" the national team competition, he said.

"She wouldn't have had to embarrass herself."

More recently, he raised eyebrows in 2020 when insisting he would work to stay free of coronavirus -- but without wearing a mask.

The comments were slammed as out-of-touch, and Mori subsequently began wearing one.

And on Tuesday, he caused an upset by declaring the delayed Games would go ahead this year "however the coronavirus (pandemic) evolves."

His remarks came with 80 percent of Japanese opposed to holding the Games this year and parts of the country under a virus emergency.

Tokyo Olympics boss Yoshiro Mori, whose sexist remarks and refusal to resign have sparked outrage in Japan, is a former prime minister known for embarrassing gaffes who led one of the country's least popular governments ever.

Tokyo Olympics boss Yoshiro Mori, whose sexist remarks and refusal to resign have sparked outrage in Japan, is a former prime minister known for embarrassing gaffes who led one of the country's least popular governments ever. From continuing a game of golf after a deadly marine accident off Japan's coast to publicly sneering at the performance of a popular Japanese figure skater, the 83-year-old is no stranger to public missteps. On Thursday he apologised for saying women "have difficulty" speaking concisely, but then dug a deeper hole when he insisted he had heard complaints that women speak at length. Mori served as prime minister for just one year between April 2000 and 2001, a short term marked by controversy. Soon after taking office he declared Japan "a country of gods centred around the emperor" -- a highly controversial statement seen as potentially violating the constitution, which separates religion and politics. ALSO READ: Tokyo 2020 boss faces resignation calls over sexist remarks As prime minister, Mori started with an approval rating of around 30 percent that slid downwards during his term, partly due to his repeated gaffes. During an election campaign, he said he hoped swing voters who might not support his ruling Liberal Democratic Party would "sleep in on polling day". His comments backfired and were seen as contributing to a decline in the number of seats won by the party in the lower house. And towards the end of his term he was widely criticised for continuing a golf game after being informed of the accidental sinking of a Japanese ship by a US submarine. Since retiring from politics in 2012, Mori has been heavily involved in promoting sports in Japan and played a key role in bringing Asia's first Rugby World Cup to the country in 2019. An avid rugby fan and amateur player himself, he served as chairman of the Japan Rugby Football Union for 10 years until his term expired in 2015. He subsequently served as honorary chairman of the organisation but quit just months before the Rugby World Cup, citing health problems. - Cancer survivor - Mori has spoken publicly about his battle with cancer, even citing his health struggles as reason to be hopeful about the Games going ahead following their postponement in 2020. "We have no choice but to have hope. I myself suffered cancer... But I was saved by a new drug," he said then. "I am here, allowed to live... Let us hope for these things." His remarks have not always been so tactful, and he drew fire during the 2014 Sochi Winter Olympics for pouring scorn on Japanese figure-skating heroine Mao Asada following a disastrous routine in Russia. "That girl, she always falls over whenever it's important," Mori sniped amid widespread disappointment after Asada slipped on her trademark jump to end in lowly 16th position. Media, fans and fellow athletes hit out at Mori after he said the out-of-form skater should have withdrawn from the team competition. "She slipped over just like that. We knew Japan couldn't win" the national team competition, he said. "She wouldn't have had to embarrass herself." More recently, he raised eyebrows in 2020 when insisting he would work to stay free of coronavirus -- but without wearing a mask. The comments were slammed as out-of-touch, and Mori subsequently began wearing one. And on Tuesday, he caused an upset by declaring the delayed Games would go ahead this year "however the coronavirus (pandemic) evolves." His remarks came with 80 percent of Japanese opposed to holding the Games this year and parts of the country under a virus emergency.

Yoshiro Mori: Gaffe-prone Tokyo 2020 chief and former Japan PM

The captain of the Indian cricket team, Virat Kohli has been ranked the most valuable celebrity for the fourth year on the bounce. Kohli's brand valuation remained at&nbsp;$237.7 million despite the&nbsp;COVID-19&nbsp;pandemic, according to the Celebrity Brand Valuation Study 2020 released by Duff &amp; Phelps.&nbsp;

While the top 10 list is dominated by Bollywood stars, Kohli remains atop the standings and clear of others in the list.&nbsp;

Managing director of Duff &amp; Phelps said that while established celebrities continue to dominate the rankings, millennials with massive social media presence have left a mark in the rankings.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/icc-announces-decade-awards-from-kohli-smith-to-perry-heres-complete-list-of-winners-352996" hreflang="en">ICC announces Decade Awards: From Kohli, Smith to Perry - Here's complete list of winners</a>

“While established celebrities continue to dominate our rankings, notable millennials with a strong social media presence continue to climb the ladder. Ayushmann&nbsp;Khurrana, Tiger Shroff and Rohit Sharma all jumped a few spots to grab the No. 6, No. 15 and No. 17 spots, respectively. Further, Kartik Aaryan debuts on our list at No. 20. These rising millennial celebrities were in greater demand during the pandemic owing to their popularity among the youth,” said Aviral Jain, Managing Director, Duff &amp; Phelps.&nbsp;

Duff &amp; Phelps conducted a recent survey and released key findings from the sixth edition&nbsp;of its Celebrity Brand Valuation Study 2020: “Embracing the New Normal.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

The report ranks India's most powerful celebrity brands based on brand value. It is taken from endorsement portfolio and social media presence. With the year 2020 hit by COVID-19, the study examined the impact of the pandemic on both brand value rankings and endorsement space.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/farmers-are-integral-part-of-our-country-virat-kohli-ajinkya-rahane-urge-indians-to-stay-united-361166" hreflang="en">'Farmers are integral part of our country': Virat Kohli, Ajinkya Rahane urge Indians to stay united</a>

According to the study, there is a reduction in marketing and advertising budget due to the pandemic. The lockdown also impacted the endorsement done by the top 20 celebrities in the year 2020. The number of endorsements declined by a noteworthy 3.5 per cent to 357&nbsp;in 2020.&nbsp;“Overall the brand value of the top 20 celebrities in 2020 saw a dip by about 5 per cent compared to 2020 due to pandemic and stood at about $1 billion,” the Duff &amp; Phelps study pointed out.&nbsp;

The film industry was hit the hardest during the pandemic but for the sporting world, the Indian Premier League (IPL) was a major event that ensured the rise of sports celebrities, according to the report.&nbsp;

The captain of the Indian cricket team, Virat Kohli has been ranked the most valuable celebrity for the fourth year on the bounce. Kohli's brand valuation remained at $237.

The captain of the Indian cricket team, Virat Kohli has been ranked the most valuable celebrity for the fourth year on the bounce. Kohli's brand valuation remained at $237.7 million despite the COVID-19 pandemic, according to the Celebrity Brand Valuation Study 2020 released by Duff & Phelps. While the top 10 list is dominated by Bollywood stars, Kohli remains atop the standings and clear of others in the list. Managing director of Duff & Phelps said that while established celebrities continue to dominate the rankings, millennials with massive social media presence have left a mark in the rankings. ALSO READ: ICC announces Decade Awards: From Kohli, Smith to Perry - Here's complete list of winners “While established celebrities continue to dominate our rankings, notable millennials with a strong social media presence continue to climb the ladder. Ayushmann Khurrana, Tiger Shroff and Rohit Sharma all jumped a few spots to grab the No. 6, No. 15 and No. 17 spots, respectively. Further, Kartik Aaryan debuts on our list at No. 20. These rising millennial celebrities were in greater demand during the pandemic owing to their popularity among the youth,” said Aviral Jain, Managing Director, Duff & Phelps. Duff & Phelps conducted a recent survey and released key findings from the sixth edition of its Celebrity Brand Valuation Study 2020: “Embracing the New Normal.” The report ranks India's most powerful celebrity brands based on brand value. It is taken from endorsement portfolio and social media presence. With the year 2020 hit by COVID-19, the study examined the impact of the pandemic on both brand value rankings and endorsement space. ALSO READ: 'Farmers are integral part of our country': Virat Kohli, Ajinkya Rahane urge Indians to stay united According to the study, there is a reduction in marketing and advertising budget due to the pandemic. The lockdown also impacted the endorsement done by the top 20 celebrities in the year 2020. The number of endorsements declined by a noteworthy 3.5 per cent to 357 in 2020. “Overall the brand value of the top 20 celebrities in 2020 saw a dip by about 5 per cent compared to 2020 due to pandemic and stood at about $1 billion,” the Duff & Phelps study pointed out. The film industry was hit the hardest during the pandemic but for the sporting world, the Indian Premier League (IPL) was a major event that ensured the rise of sports celebrities, according to the report.

Virat Kohli tops celebrity brand valuation study for fourth consecutive year

Patrick Mahomes has been virtually unstoppable since becoming the starting quarterback of the Kansas City Chiefs three seasons ago, but said the reigning Super Bowl champions are far from satisfied.

Mahomes, who is 44-9 as a starter, took home Super Bowl MVP honors last year after leading his team to a gutsy, come-from-behind win to end the franchise’s 50-year title drought.

Now he says the team is hungry for more.

“The thing I’m most proud is that no one has become satisfied,” Mahomes told reporters on Wednesday ahead of Sunday’s showdown against the Buccaneers in Tampa.

“No one has become happy with winning one Super Bowl championship,” he said. “Everybody is trying to make themselves better every single day and not trying to take a day for granted. You don’t have that in every single organization or every single locker room.

“It comes with the culture (general manager) Brett Veach and coach (Andy) Reid have instilled in us, and that’s to get better 1% every single day. That’s why we’re in this game and have a chance for another Super Bowl championship.”

Mahomes will be going against veteran quarterback Tom Brady, who is making his 10th Super Bowl appearance and gunning for a record-extending seventh ring.

Patrick Mahomes has been virtually unstoppable since becoming the starting quarterback of the Kansas City Chiefs three seasons ago, but said the reigning Super Bowl champions are far from satisfied.

Patrick Mahomes has been virtually unstoppable since becoming the starting quarterback of the Kansas City Chiefs three seasons ago, but said the reigning Super Bowl champions are far from satisfied. Mahomes, who is 44-9 as a starter, took home Super Bowl MVP honors last year after leading his team to a gutsy, come-from-behind win to end the franchise’s 50-year title drought. Now he says the team is hungry for more. “The thing I’m most proud is that no one has become satisfied,” Mahomes told reporters on Wednesday ahead of Sunday’s showdown against the Buccaneers in Tampa. “No one has become happy with winning one Super Bowl championship,” he said. “Everybody is trying to make themselves better every single day and not trying to take a day for granted. You don’t have that in every single organization or every single locker room. “It comes with the culture (general manager) Brett Veach and coach (Andy) Reid have instilled in us, and that’s to get better 1% every single day. That’s why we’re in this game and have a chance for another Super Bowl championship.” Mahomes will be going against veteran quarterback Tom Brady, who is making his 10th Super Bowl appearance and gunning for a record-extending seventh ring.

NFL: Chiefs not satisfied with one Super Bowl, says Mahomes

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