The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic was felt on the national sports budget as the central government on Monday allocated Rs 2596.14 crore for the financial year 2021-22 -- a reduction of Rs 230.78 crore when compared to the amount earmarked initially for the previous year.

In the last financial year, the government had allocated Rs 2826.92 crore for sports, which was later revised to Rs 1800.15 crore because of the lack of activity caused by the pandemic. This year's allocated amount is Rs 795.99 crore more than the revised budget of 2020-21.

However, the spending last year was severely impacted after Tokyo Olympics was postponed, domestic events were cancelled in almost all sports and no foreign training and competition was possible for most of the Indian athletes.

The sports ministry bears the cost of all foreign training and competition, including participation in the Olympics.

"Initially, sports was allocated Rs 2826.92 in last year's budget which was later revised to Rs 1800.15 after all sporting events across the world came to a halt because of the COVID-19 pandemic," a sports ministry official told PTI, hinting why comparison should not be made with the revised budget of last year.

"There was hardly any activity last year as most of the national camps were closed because of the lockdown.

"In terms of infrastructure development and upgradation of stadiums too, there was hardly any progress because of the pandemic," the official added, without divulging further details.

The government's flagship Khelo India programme was handed the biggest reduction -- of Rs 232.71 crore -- among all sports heads for the 2021-22 budget, presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Monday.

The financial allocation towards Khelo India programme, which got Rs 890.42 crore in the last budget, was reduced to Rs 657.71 core. The Sports Authority of India, whose allocation was reduced to Rs 500 crore in the last budget, got a substantial hike this time with the government proposing an increase of Rs 160.41 crore taking the total to Rs 660.41 crore.

The SAI is the nodal organisation to manage nationals camps, provide infrastructure, equipment and other logistics to the country's sportspersons. The allocation towards National Sports Federations (NSFs), which received a cold shoulder in the last budget, was also hiked by Rs 35 crore to Rs 280 crore.

As far as incentives for sportspersons are concerned, the budget has proposed to further slash the amount from Rs 70 crore to Rs 53 crore. The budget for National Sports Development Fund has also been halved to Rs 25 crore. The allocation for the 2010 Commonwealth Games-SAI stadia renovation was also slashed to Rs 30 crore from Rs 75 last year.

National Welfare Fund for Sportspersons will continue to get the same amount of Rs 2 crore as earlier, while, at Rs 50 crore, there was also no change in the allocation for the enhancement of sports facilities in Jammu and Kashmir. The Laxmi Bai National Institute of Physical Education will continue to get Rs 55 crore, while contribution to the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) has been increased to Rs 2.5 crore from Rs 2 crore

The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic was felt on the national sports budget as the central government on Monday allocated Rs 2596.14 crore for the financial year 2021-22 -- a reduction of Rs 230.

The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic was felt on the national sports budget as the central government on Monday allocated Rs 2596.14 crore for the financial year 2021-22 -- a reduction of Rs 230.78 crore when compared to the amount earmarked initially for the previous year. In the last financial year, the government had allocated Rs 2826.92 crore for sports, which was later revised to Rs 1800.15 crore because of the lack of activity caused by the pandemic. This year's allocated amount is Rs 795.99 crore more than the revised budget of 2020-21. However, the spending last year was severely impacted after Tokyo Olympics was postponed, domestic events were cancelled in almost all sports and no foreign training and competition was possible for most of the Indian athletes. The sports ministry bears the cost of all foreign training and competition, including participation in the Olympics. "Initially, sports was allocated Rs 2826.92 in last year's budget which was later revised to Rs 1800.15 after all sporting events across the world came to a halt because of the COVID-19 pandemic," a sports ministry official told PTI, hinting why comparison should not be made with the revised budget of last year. "There was hardly any activity last year as most of the national camps were closed because of the lockdown. "In terms of infrastructure development and upgradation of stadiums too, there was hardly any progress because of the pandemic," the official added, without divulging further details. The government's flagship Khelo India programme was handed the biggest reduction -- of Rs 232.71 crore -- among all sports heads for the 2021-22 budget, presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Monday. The financial allocation towards Khelo India programme, which got Rs 890.42 crore in the last budget, was reduced to Rs 657.71 core. The Sports Authority of India, whose allocation was reduced to Rs 500 crore in the last budget, got a substantial hike this time with the government proposing an increase of Rs 160.41 crore taking the total to Rs 660.41 crore. The SAI is the nodal organisation to manage nationals camps, provide infrastructure, equipment and other logistics to the country's sportspersons. The allocation towards National Sports Federations (NSFs), which received a cold shoulder in the last budget, was also hiked by Rs 35 crore to Rs 280 crore. As far as incentives for sportspersons are concerned, the budget has proposed to further slash the amount from Rs 70 crore to Rs 53 crore. The budget for National Sports Development Fund has also been halved to Rs 25 crore. The allocation for the 2010 Commonwealth Games-SAI stadia renovation was also slashed to Rs 30 crore from Rs 75 last year. National Welfare Fund for Sportspersons will continue to get the same amount of Rs 2 crore as earlier, while, at Rs 50 crore, there was also no change in the allocation for the enhancement of sports facilities in Jammu and Kashmir. The Laxmi Bai National Institute of Physical Education will continue to get Rs 55 crore, while contribution to the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) has been increased to Rs 2.5 crore from Rs 2 crore

Government allocates INR 2826.92 crore to sports budget

At the stadium and behind the scenes, security officials in Tampa are bracing for a daunting range of potential threats to the Super Bowl this year, from COVID-19 and domestic terror attacks to unruly crowds cheering on their home team.

The National Football League championship, which requires security coordination from some 70 local, state and federal agencies, will be played under unprecedented threat conditions with a national domestic terrorism advisory in place following the U.S. Capitol siege on Jan. 6 and the COVID-19 pandemic raging. It will also be the first Super Bowl matchup featuring a team - the Tampa Bay Buccaneers - on its home turf.

Officials have been planning the event’s security for a year, according to FBI Special-Agent-in-Charge Michael McPherson, but recent political and public health crises and the cancellation of Super Bowl week events have caused the massive operation to adapt to a shifting threat picture.

Super Bowl LV is classified as a SEAR-1 event by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS), meaning it receives the highest level of federal resources, including explosive detection canine teams, cyber risk assessments and air security.

The FBI Tampa field office, led by McPherson, will be hosting more than a dozen agencies at an intelligence operation center where agents will collect, analyze and disseminate intelligence related to the Super Bowl and communicate with other units around the country.

Fresh on their minds is an advisory issued by the DHS last week, which warned of the persistent threat of domestic terror attacks in the U.S. by “violent extremists with objections to the exercise of governmental authority and the presidential transition.”

Like all FBI offices, McPherson’s Tampa office has been charged with chasing leads on subjects who may have been involved in the Jan. 6 attack. The agency may increase its surveillance of any local subjects leading up to the game, even if they do not pose an apparent threat to the Super Bowl, McPherson said.

“We saw what happened in DC and if someone might want to make a political statement... it’s something we would be thinking about,” he said.

Hundreds of law enforcement officials, on horseback, in golf carts, and with canine units, will be posted on the grounds of the Raymond James stadium and the Tampa Riverwalk, where the game and other lead-up events will take place this week, said Tampa Police Chief Brian Dugan.

Those officers and their partners behind the scenes will be prepared for potentially violent political demonstrations in the wake of the DHS’ warning.

“We are planning for any type of demonstration, doesn’t matter what their message is,” Dugan said.

<h2>HOME TURF</h2>

Due to COVID-19, many events leading up to the game have been pared down or made virtual and the stadium will only hold 22,000 attendees, a third of its capacity.

These measures have eased the burden slightly on law enforcement officers, who now have fewer physical venues to secure.

But with fewer planned events, and the enthusiasm of a hometown crowd, officials are expecting they will need to monitor spontaneous, local gatherings that could draw energized masses - especially if the Bucs are victorious.

“When we realized the Buccaneers were going to be in it, we started thinking about how else do we have to adjust our footprint,” McPherson said.

In Dugan’s view, the most prominent security concern “is crowd control”.

With thousands of security officials, athletes and fans congregating comes another underlying, but hardly overlooked threat: the contagious virus that has so far killed more than 430,000 Americans.

“One of my greater concerns about this is making sure we have healthy people to execute the plan,” McPherson said, adding that he was urging his officers to follow health protocols so the virus cannot “hinder operations”.

While the mayor of Tampa has mandated mask-wearing around the stadium during Super Bowl week, Chief Dugan, who recovered from his own bout of COVID-19 last week, said he did not anticipate his officers would enforce COVID-19 measures besides reminding people to social distance.

“We really don’t want to get into being the mask police,” he said. “We’re just going to rely on people being responsible citizens.”

At the stadium and behind the scenes, security officials in Tampa are bracing for a daunting range of potential threats to the Super Bowl this year, from COVID-19 and domestic terror attacks to unruly crowds cheering on their home team.

At the stadium and behind the scenes, security officials in Tampa are bracing for a daunting range of potential threats to the Super Bowl this year, from COVID-19 and domestic terror attacks to unruly crowds cheering on their home team. The National Football League championship, which requires security coordination from some 70 local, state and federal agencies, will be played under unprecedented threat conditions with a national domestic terrorism advisory in place following the U.S. Capitol siege on Jan. 6 and the COVID-19 pandemic raging. It will also be the first Super Bowl matchup featuring a team - the Tampa Bay Buccaneers - on its home turf. Officials have been planning the event’s security for a year, according to FBI Special-Agent-in-Charge Michael McPherson, but recent political and public health crises and the cancellation of Super Bowl week events have caused the massive operation to adapt to a shifting threat picture. Super Bowl LV is classified as a SEAR-1 event by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS), meaning it receives the highest level of federal resources, including explosive detection canine teams, cyber risk assessments and air security. The FBI Tampa field office, led by McPherson, will be hosting more than a dozen agencies at an intelligence operation center where agents will collect, analyze and disseminate intelligence related to the Super Bowl and communicate with other units around the country. Fresh on their minds is an advisory issued by the DHS last week, which warned of the persistent threat of domestic terror attacks in the U.S. by “violent extremists with objections to the exercise of governmental authority and the presidential transition.” Like all FBI offices, McPherson’s Tampa office has been charged with chasing leads on subjects who may have been involved in the Jan. 6 attack. The agency may increase its surveillance of any local subjects leading up to the game, even if they do not pose an apparent threat to the Super Bowl, McPherson said. “We saw what happened in DC and if someone might want to make a political statement... it’s something we would be thinking about,” he said. Hundreds of law enforcement officials, on horseback, in golf carts, and with canine units, will be posted on the grounds of the Raymond James stadium and the Tampa Riverwalk, where the game and other lead-up events will take place this week, said Tampa Police Chief Brian Dugan. Those officers and their partners behind the scenes will be prepared for potentially violent political demonstrations in the wake of the DHS’ warning. “We are planning for any type of demonstration, doesn’t matter what their message is,” Dugan said. HOME TURF Due to COVID-19, many events leading up to the game have been pared down or made virtual and the stadium will only hold 22,000 attendees, a third of its capacity. These measures have eased the burden slightly on law enforcement officers, who now have fewer physical venues to secure. But with fewer planned events, and the enthusiasm of a hometown crowd, officials are expecting they will need to monitor spontaneous, local gatherings that could draw energized masses - especially if the Bucs are victorious. “When we realized the Buccaneers were going to be in it, we started thinking about how else do we have to adjust our footprint,” McPherson said. In Dugan’s view, the most prominent security concern “is crowd control”. With thousands of security officials, athletes and fans congregating comes another underlying, but hardly overlooked threat: the contagious virus that has so far killed more than 430,000 Americans. “One of my greater concerns about this is making sure we have healthy people to execute the plan,” McPherson said, adding that he was urging his officers to follow health protocols so the virus cannot “hinder operations”. While the mayor of Tampa has mandated mask-wearing around the stadium during Super Bowl week, Chief Dugan, who recovered from his own bout of COVID-19 last week, said he did not anticipate his officers would enforce COVID-19 measures besides reminding people to social distance. “We really don’t want to get into being the mask police,” he said. “We’re just going to rely on people being responsible citizens.”

Super Bowl security officers prep for triple threat of pandemic, politics and hometown crowds

France's Corentin Moutet burnished his credentials with a battling come-from-behind win over American Frances Tiafoe, but his veteran compatriot Richard Gasquet crashed at the first hurdle as the ATP Tour resumed Monday.

NextGen star Moutet, 21, posted a career-best result when he stormed into the final of the Qatar Open as a qualifier last year, finishing runner-up to Russian world number eight Andrey Rublev.

And he started 2021 well, ousting 2019 Australian Open quarter-finalist Tiafoe 3-6, 6-4, 6-4 in the Murray River Open, one of two ATP events being run concurrently at Melbourne Park ahead of next week's Australian Open.

"It was so nice to play a match," Moutet said.&nbsp;

"It was a long time since I've played, especially in front of people. It wasn't an easy one, because I had to play against a tough opponent who is a great player. A tough match, but definitely a lot of pleasure."

But 14th seed Gasquet didn't fare as well, crashing to 194th ranked American Mackenzie McDonald 7-6 (7/2), 7-5.

Fellow American Tommy Paul, the 15th seed, was another winner, motoring past Briton Cameron Norrie in three sets.

Top seeds Stan Wawrinka and Grigor Dimitrov had byes into the second round.

Slovenian 13th seed Aljaz Bedene and big-serving South African Kevin Anderson were among the winners in the Great Ocean Road Classic.

The biggest names in the game, including Novak Djokovic and Rafael Nadal, are playing the ATP Cup teams event, which gets underway in Melbourne on Tuesday.

France's Corentin Moutet burnished his credentials with a battling come-from-behind win over American Frances Tiafoe, but his veteran compatriot Richard Gasquet crashed at the first hurdle as the ATP Tour resumed Monday.

France's Corentin Moutet burnished his credentials with a battling come-from-behind win over American Frances Tiafoe, but his veteran compatriot Richard Gasquet crashed at the first hurdle as the ATP Tour resumed Monday. NextGen star Moutet, 21, posted a career-best result when he stormed into the final of the Qatar Open as a qualifier last year, finishing runner-up to Russian world number eight Andrey Rublev. And he started 2021 well, ousting 2019 Australian Open quarter-finalist Tiafoe 3-6, 6-4, 6-4 in the Murray River Open, one of two ATP events being run concurrently at Melbourne Park ahead of next week's Australian Open. "It was so nice to play a match," Moutet said. "It was a long time since I've played, especially in front of people. It wasn't an easy one, because I had to play against a tough opponent who is a great player. A tough match, but definitely a lot of pleasure." But 14th seed Gasquet didn't fare as well, crashing to 194th ranked American Mackenzie McDonald 7-6 (7/2), 7-5. Fellow American Tommy Paul, the 15th seed, was another winner, motoring past Briton Cameron Norrie in three sets. Top seeds Stan Wawrinka and Grigor Dimitrov had byes into the second round. Slovenian 13th seed Aljaz Bedene and big-serving South African Kevin Anderson were among the winners in the Great Ocean Road Classic. The biggest names in the game, including Novak Djokovic and Rafael Nadal, are playing the ATP Cup teams event, which gets underway in Melbourne on Tuesday.

Moutet upsets Tiafoe, Gasquet crashes as ATP Tour resumes

The four-match Test series between India and England is all set to commence from February 5 with two matches scheduled to be played in Chennai and the remaining two in Ahmedabad. While India haven't lost a Test series since 2012, England remain the last team to defeat&nbsp;India at home in the longest format of the game.&nbsp;

However, ahead of the much-awaited four-Test series between India and England, former Indian batsman Gautam Gambhir has said that he doesn't see the Joe Root-led side winning any of the Test matches in the impending series.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Gambhir while giving a slight advantage to England for the pink-ball Test said England don't have quality spinners who can&nbsp;utilise&nbsp;the Indian conditions to perfection.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/england-team-to-start-full-group-training-from-tuesday-as-all-covid-19-tests-return-negative-360640" hreflang="en">England team to start full-group training from Tuesday as all COVID-19 tests return negative</a>

“It has to be 3-0 India or probably 3-1. I’m only going to give a Pink Ball Test match, probably 50-50 to England just from the conditions point of view. I don’t see England winning any of the Test matches with the kind of spin attack they’ve got,” Gambhir&nbsp;said on Star Sports show Game Plan.&nbsp;

England head into the four-Test series versus India on the back of&nbsp;2-0 Test series win over Sri Lanka. Gambhir has said facing the likes of Jasprit&nbsp;Bumrah&nbsp;or Ravichandran Ashwin would be a different game altogether for the visitors.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-eng-virat-kohli-on-verge-of-shattering-twin-records-against-england-360627" hreflang="en">IND vs ENG: Virat Kohli on verge of shattering twin records against England</a>

“This is going to be a completely different challenge for someone like Joe Root. Yes, he has played really well in Sri Lanka, but when you have to face people like Jasprit&nbsp;Bumrah&nbsp;on any wicket, or for that matter, Ravichandran Ashwin, when his confidence is sky-high after what he has done in Australia, I am sure it is going to be a completely different beast and a completely different ball game,” he added.&nbsp;

India will also welcome their skipper Virat Kohli back in the squad. Kohli had left Australia after the Adelaide Test to attend the birth of his first child.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<h2 aria-level="2" lang="EN-US" paraeid="{50a41408-c45d-42d0-b2ec-9a0abb7a4137}{10}" paraid="768632653" role="heading" >England Tour of India: Full Schedule&nbsp;</h2>

Tests&nbsp;

Friday 5-9 February:&nbsp;1st Test – India v England, MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai&nbsp;

Saturday 13-17 February:&nbsp;2nd Test – India v England, MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai&nbsp;

Wednesday 24-28 February: 3rd&nbsp;Test - India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad&nbsp;

Thursday 4-8 March: 4th&nbsp;Test – India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad&nbsp;

T20Is&nbsp;

Friday 12 March:&nbsp;1st T20I – India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad&nbsp;

Sunday 14 March:&nbsp;2nd T20I – India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad&nbsp;

Tuesday 16 March:&nbsp;3rd T20I - India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad&nbsp;

Thursday 18 March:&nbsp;4th T20I - India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad&nbsp;

Saturday 20 March:&nbsp;5th T20I - India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad&nbsp;

ODIs&nbsp;

Tuesday 23 March:&nbsp;1st ODI - India v England, MCA Stadium, Pune&nbsp;

Friday 26 March:&nbsp;2nd ODI - India v England, MCA Stadium, Pune&nbsp;

Sunday 28 March:&nbsp;3rd ODI - India v England, MCA Stadium, Pune&nbsp;

Monday 29 March:&nbsp;Touring party departs India&nbsp;

The four-match Test series between India and England is all set to commence from February 5 with two matches scheduled to be played in Chennai and the remaining two in Ahmedabad.

The four-match Test series between India and England is all set to commence from February 5 with two matches scheduled to be played in Chennai and the remaining two in Ahmedabad. While India haven't lost a Test series since 2012, England remain the last team to defeat India at home in the longest format of the game. However, ahead of the much-awaited four-Test series between India and England, former Indian batsman Gautam Gambhir has said that he doesn't see the Joe Root-led side winning any of the Test matches in the impending series. Gambhir while giving a slight advantage to England for the pink-ball Test said England don't have quality spinners who can utilise the Indian conditions to perfection. ALSO READ: England team to start full-group training from Tuesday as all COVID-19 tests return negative “It has to be 3-0 India or probably 3-1. I’m only going to give a Pink Ball Test match, probably 50-50 to England just from the conditions point of view. I don’t see England winning any of the Test matches with the kind of spin attack they’ve got,” Gambhir said on Star Sports show Game Plan. England head into the four-Test series versus India on the back of 2-0 Test series win over Sri Lanka. Gambhir has said facing the likes of Jasprit Bumrah or Ravichandran Ashwin would be a different game altogether for the visitors. ALSO READ: IND vs ENG: Virat Kohli on verge of shattering twin records against England “This is going to be a completely different challenge for someone like Joe Root. Yes, he has played really well in Sri Lanka, but when you have to face people like Jasprit Bumrah on any wicket, or for that matter, Ravichandran Ashwin, when his confidence is sky-high after what he has done in Australia, I am sure it is going to be a completely different beast and a completely different ball game,” he added. India will also welcome their skipper Virat Kohli back in the squad. Kohli had left Australia after the Adelaide Test to attend the birth of his first child. England Tour of India: Full Schedule Tests Friday 5-9 February: 1st Test – India v England, MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai Saturday 13-17 February: 2nd Test – India v England, MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai Wednesday 24-28 February: 3rd Test - India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad Thursday 4-8 March: 4th Test – India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad T20Is Friday 12 March: 1st T20I – India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad Sunday 14 March: 2nd T20I – India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad Tuesday 16 March: 3rd T20I - India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad Thursday 18 March: 4th T20I - India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad Saturday 20 March: 5th T20I - India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad ODIs Tuesday 23 March: 1st ODI - India v England, MCA Stadium, Pune Friday 26 March: 2nd ODI - India v England, MCA Stadium, Pune Sunday 28 March: 3rd ODI - India v England, MCA Stadium, Pune Monday 29 March: Touring party departs India

India vs England: Gautam Gambhir predicts scoreline of Test series

England cricket team is all set to commence training as a full group on Tuesday at the MA Chidambaram Stadium after all PCR tests returned negative ahead of the four-Test series starting from&nbsp;February 5. Thus far, only the troika of Ben Stokes, Jofra Archer and Rory burns were practising as they had reached India days before their team-mates and completed their quarantine period before the rest of the squad.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Stokes, Archer and Burns will now gear up to welcome the rest of the team&nbsp;with England set to commence final preparations ahead of the first Test in Chennai, scheduled to kick-start from February 5.&nbsp;

On Tuesday, England team will take the field at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai for the first time as a full group since landing in India.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-eng-virat-kohli-on-verge-of-shattering-twin-records-against-england-360627" hreflang="en">IND vs ENG: Virat Kohli on verge of shattering twin records against England</a>

England are coming at the back of a fantastic 2-0 Test series win against Sri Lanka as the Joe Root-led side dominated the proceedings in both the matches. Whereas India will be high on confidence after their historic 2-1&nbsp;triumph against Australia in the recently concluded Border-Gavaskar Trophy.&nbsp;&nbsp;

With both England and India in form, the four-match Test series promises to be a great spectacle.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Meanwhile, England's Jos Buttler welcomed the challenges of keeping wickets in India as he said that the turning tracks&nbsp;can sometimes be a tricky ask for a&nbsp;glovesman.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/definitely-want-to-be-part-of-pujara-confident-of-playing-in-ipl-360384" hreflang="en">'Definitely want to be part of': Pujara confident of playing in IPL</a>

"There's some big challenges keeping wicket, the way the pitch will change and deteriorate over the five days," Buttler told a video conference on Saturday.&nbsp;

"There's less carry for the seam bowlers than we're used to in England or Australia and South Africa.&nbsp;So&nbsp;you're standing quite close and a lot of the chances are very quick reactive chances.&nbsp;And then obviously the challenge of standing up to the spinners when the ball starts to turn..."

<h2 aria-level="2" lang="EN-US" paraeid="{50a41408-c45d-42d0-b2ec-9a0abb7a4137}{10}" paraid="768632653" role="heading" >England Tour of India: Full Schedule&nbsp;</h2>

Tests&nbsp;

Friday 5-9 February:&nbsp;1st Test – India v England, MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai&nbsp;

Saturday 13-17 February:&nbsp;2nd Test – India v England, MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai&nbsp;

Wednesday 24-28 February: 3rd&nbsp;Test - India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad&nbsp;

Thursday 4-8 March: 4th&nbsp;Test – India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad&nbsp;

T20Is&nbsp;

Friday 12 March:&nbsp;1st T20I – India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad&nbsp;

Sunday 14 March:&nbsp;2nd T20I – India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad&nbsp;

Tuesday 16 March:&nbsp;3rd T20I - India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad&nbsp;

Thursday 18 March:&nbsp;4th T20I - India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad&nbsp;

Saturday 20 March:&nbsp;5th T20I - India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad&nbsp;

ODIs&nbsp;

Tuesday 23 March:&nbsp;1st ODI - India v England, MCA Stadium, Pune&nbsp;

Friday 26 March:&nbsp;2nd ODI - India v England, MCA Stadium, Pune&nbsp;

Sunday 28 March:&nbsp;3rd ODI - India v England, MCA Stadium, Pune&nbsp;

Monday 29 March:&nbsp;Touring party departs India&nbsp;

England cricket team is all set to commence training as a full group on Tuesday at the MA Chidambaram Stadium after all PCR tests returned negative ahead of the four-Test series starting from February 5.

England cricket team is all set to commence training as a full group on Tuesday at the MA Chidambaram Stadium after all PCR tests returned negative ahead of the four-Test series starting from February 5. Thus far, only the troika of Ben Stokes, Jofra Archer and Rory burns were practising as they had reached India days before their team-mates and completed their quarantine period before the rest of the squad. Stokes, Archer and Burns will now gear up to welcome the rest of the team with England set to commence final preparations ahead of the first Test in Chennai, scheduled to kick-start from February 5. On Tuesday, England team will take the field at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai for the first time as a full group since landing in India. ALSO READ: IND vs ENG: Virat Kohli on verge of shattering twin records against England England are coming at the back of a fantastic 2-0 Test series win against Sri Lanka as the Joe Root-led side dominated the proceedings in both the matches. Whereas India will be high on confidence after their historic 2-1 triumph against Australia in the recently concluded Border-Gavaskar Trophy. With both England and India in form, the four-match Test series promises to be a great spectacle. Meanwhile, England's Jos Buttler welcomed the challenges of keeping wickets in India as he said that the turning tracks can sometimes be a tricky ask for a glovesman. ALSO READ: 'Definitely want to be part of': Pujara confident of playing in IPL "There's some big challenges keeping wicket, the way the pitch will change and deteriorate over the five days," Buttler told a video conference on Saturday. "There's less carry for the seam bowlers than we're used to in England or Australia and South Africa. So you're standing quite close and a lot of the chances are very quick reactive chances. And then obviously the challenge of standing up to the spinners when the ball starts to turn..." England Tour of India: Full Schedule Tests Friday 5-9 February: 1st Test – India v England, MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai Saturday 13-17 February: 2nd Test – India v England, MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai Wednesday 24-28 February: 3rd Test - India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad Thursday 4-8 March: 4th Test – India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad T20Is Friday 12 March: 1st T20I – India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad Sunday 14 March: 2nd T20I – India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad Tuesday 16 March: 3rd T20I - India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad Thursday 18 March: 4th T20I - India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad Saturday 20 March: 5th T20I - India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad ODIs Tuesday 23 March: 1st ODI - India v England, MCA Stadium, Pune Friday 26 March: 2nd ODI - India v England, MCA Stadium, Pune Sunday 28 March: 3rd ODI - India v England, MCA Stadium, Pune Monday 29 March: Touring party departs India

England team to start full-group training from Tuesday as all COVID-19 tests return negative

Virat Kohli will be back in action with the Indian skipper returning back to the squad for the full-fledged home series against England. Kohli had missed&nbsp;the last three Tests against Australia on paternity leave, to be with his pregnant wife Anushka Sharma. Kohli has always enjoyed batting against England and the swashbuckling batsman will be eyeing twin records when he takes the field for the four-Test series, starting February 5.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Former India captain Sunil Gavaskar holds the record of scoring most runs at home against England and Kohli is 489 runs away from achieving the iconic feat. While Kohli is currently sixth in the list with 843 runs from 9 home matches against England, Gavaskar accumulated 1331 runs in 22 matches.&nbsp;&nbsp;

After Gavaskar, Gundappa Viswanath (1022 runs in 17 matches),&nbsp;Sachin&nbsp;Tendulkar (960 runs in 15 matches), Vijay Manjrekar (885 runs in 11 matches) and ML Jaisimha (843&nbsp;runs in 10 matches) are head of Kohli in the list but the Indian skipper, with his run-scoring record against England, is&nbsp;favourite&nbsp;to topple the greats and take the&nbsp;numero&nbsp;uno spot.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indian-players-look-bit-scared-under-virat-kohli-opines-lee-360608" hreflang="en">Indian players look 'bit scared' under Virat Kohli, opines Lee</a>

<h2 lang="EN-US" paraeid="{5254dd4b-51a7-44c3-a4a8-d490dcbc5040}{167}" paraid="952450856" >Most runs scored&nbsp;vs&nbsp;England in home Test&nbsp;matches:&nbsp;</h2>

Sunil Gavaskar - 1331 runs in 22 matches&nbsp;

Gundappa Viswanath - 1022 runs in 17 matches&nbsp;

Sachin&nbsp;Tendulkar - 960 runs in 15 matches&nbsp;

Vijay Manjrekar - 885 runs in 11 matches&nbsp;

ML Jaisimha - 843 runs in 10 matches&nbsp;

Virat Kohli - 843 runs in 9 matches&nbsp;

Cheteshwar Pujara - 839 runs in 9 matches&nbsp;

<img alt="Virat Kohli" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="06a54f9f-eb67-4ad0-8568-613891859b71" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_1834P9.jpg" />

Kohli will also look to break Ricky Ponting's record of scoring most centuries as captain in home Test matches. While Ponting had scored 11 centuries and 3555 runs as captain in home Tests, Kohli has 10 records and 2699 runs.&nbsp;Currently, Kohli is locked with Greg Chappell, Steve Smith with 10 centuries in home Tests as a captain.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/definitely-want-to-be-part-of-pujara-confident-of-playing-in-ipl-360384" hreflang="en">'Definitely want to be part of': Pujara confident of playing in IPL</a>

<h2 lang="EN-US" paraeid="{88fa032b-872e-4b3f-9a1e-81eb4a6ef9b6}{104}" paraid="1923951398" >Most&nbsp;centuries&nbsp;as captain in home Test&nbsp;matches:&nbsp;</h2>

Ricky Ponting - 11&nbsp;centuries&nbsp;in 39 matches&nbsp;

Greg Chappell - 10&nbsp;centuries&nbsp;in 33 matches&nbsp;

Virat Kohli - 10&nbsp;centuries&nbsp;in 26 matches&nbsp;

Steve Smith - 10&nbsp;centuries&nbsp;in 20 matches&nbsp;

Don Bradman - 9&nbsp;centuries&nbsp;in 15 matches&nbsp;

Virat Kohli will be back in action with the Indian skipper returning back to the squad for the full-fledged home series against England. Kohli had missed the last three Tests against Australia on paternity leave, to be with his pregnant wife Anushka Sharma.

Virat Kohli will be back in action with the Indian skipper returning back to the squad for the full-fledged home series against England. Kohli had missed the last three Tests against Australia on paternity leave, to be with his pregnant wife Anushka Sharma. Kohli has always enjoyed batting against England and the swashbuckling batsman will be eyeing twin records when he takes the field for the four-Test series, starting February 5. Former India captain Sunil Gavaskar holds the record of scoring most runs at home against England and Kohli is 489 runs away from achieving the iconic feat. While Kohli is currently sixth in the list with 843 runs from 9 home matches against England, Gavaskar accumulated 1331 runs in 22 matches. After Gavaskar, Gundappa Viswanath (1022 runs in 17 matches), Sachin Tendulkar (960 runs in 15 matches), Vijay Manjrekar (885 runs in 11 matches) and ML Jaisimha (843 runs in 10 matches) are head of Kohli in the list but the Indian skipper, with his run-scoring record against England, is favourite to topple the greats and take the numero uno spot. ALSO READ: Indian players look 'bit scared' under Virat Kohli, opines Lee Most runs scored vs England in home Test matches: Sunil Gavaskar - 1331 runs in 22 matches Gundappa Viswanath - 1022 runs in 17 matches Sachin Tendulkar - 960 runs in 15 matches Vijay Manjrekar - 885 runs in 11 matches ML Jaisimha - 843 runs in 10 matches Virat Kohli - 843 runs in 9 matches Cheteshwar Pujara - 839 runs in 9 matches Kohli will also look to break Ricky Ponting's record of scoring most centuries as captain in home Test matches. While Ponting had scored 11 centuries and 3555 runs as captain in home Tests, Kohli has 10 records and 2699 runs. Currently, Kohli is locked with Greg Chappell, Steve Smith with 10 centuries in home Tests as a captain. ALSO READ: 'Definitely want to be part of': Pujara confident of playing in IPL Most centuries as captain in home Test matches: Ricky Ponting - 11 centuries in 39 matches Greg Chappell - 10 centuries in 33 matches Virat Kohli - 10 centuries in 26 matches Steve Smith - 10 centuries in 20 matches Don Bradman - 9 centuries in 15 matches

IND vs ENG: Virat Kohli on verge of shattering twin records against England

Former Australian all-rounder Shane Lee reckons that Indian cricketers look a bit "scared" under the leadership of Virat Kohli while adding he would have Ajinkya Rahane as the captain of the Indian Test team.&nbsp;

Rahane took over the charge in Kohli’s absence in the last three Test against Australia and led the visitors to a historic 2-1 series win Down Under. Kohli had missed the last three Tests versus Australia due to paternity leave.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Rahane led a bruised and battered Indian outfit, lacking experience, to wins in Melbourne and Brisbane as he became the second Indian captain after Kohli to win the Border-Gavaskar Trophy Down Under.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/union-budget-2021-nirmala-sitharaman-recalls-team-indias-historic-gabba-win-in-australia-360577" hreflang="en">Union Budget 2021: Nirmala Sitharaman recalls Team India's historic Gabba win in Australia</a>

Kohli had left the Indian team after the series opener in Adelaide to be with his pregnant wife Anushka Sharma. However, the Indian skipper will be back in the upcoming four-Test series against England starting February 5.&nbsp;

"Look, I think for the team he is and I would have him as captain. Kohli is one of the greatest batsmen of all time. But I just feel that he is almost revered by the players within the team.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"They're almost scared to put a foot out of line. He demanded absolute professionalism from the Indian team. The players had to be fit, they had to great in field and good catching, but they almost appear a bit scared. I just see a really relaxed team under Rahane," Lee, the older brother of Brett Lee, said.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/englands-jos-buttler-ready-for-wicket-keeping-challenge-on-indias-pitches-360298" hreflang="en">England's Jos Buttler ready for wicket keeping 'challenge' on India's pitches</a>

"Will Kohli give up the captaincy? I doubt it. If I was an Indian selector, and I'm not, but if I was, I would have Rahane captain the team and instead let Kohli go and do all his batting. And I think the team would function a lot better. But time would tell," Lee, who played 45 ODIs for Australia, added.&nbsp;

India's next assignment will be a full-fledged home series against England starting from February 5. India and England will play four Test, five T20Is and three ODIs.&nbsp;

Former Australian all-rounder Shane Lee reckons that Indian cricketers look a bit "scared" under the leadership of Virat Kohli while adding he would have Ajinkya Rahane as the captain of the Indian Test team.

Former Australian all-rounder Shane Lee reckons that Indian cricketers look a bit "scared" under the leadership of Virat Kohli while adding he would have Ajinkya Rahane as the captain of the Indian Test team. Rahane took over the charge in Kohli’s absence in the last three Test against Australia and led the visitors to a historic 2-1 series win Down Under. Kohli had missed the last three Tests versus Australia due to paternity leave. Rahane led a bruised and battered Indian outfit, lacking experience, to wins in Melbourne and Brisbane as he became the second Indian captain after Kohli to win the Border-Gavaskar Trophy Down Under. ALSO READ: Union Budget 2021: Nirmala Sitharaman recalls Team India's historic Gabba win in Australia Kohli had left the Indian team after the series opener in Adelaide to be with his pregnant wife Anushka Sharma. However, the Indian skipper will be back in the upcoming four-Test series against England starting February 5. "Look, I think for the team he is and I would have him as captain. Kohli is one of the greatest batsmen of all time. But I just feel that he is almost revered by the players within the team. "They're almost scared to put a foot out of line. He demanded absolute professionalism from the Indian team. The players had to be fit, they had to great in field and good catching, but they almost appear a bit scared. I just see a really relaxed team under Rahane," Lee, the older brother of Brett Lee, said. ALSO READ: England's Jos Buttler ready for wicket keeping 'challenge' on India's pitches "Will Kohli give up the captaincy? I doubt it. If I was an Indian selector, and I'm not, but if I was, I would have Rahane captain the team and instead let Kohli go and do all his batting. And I think the team would function a lot better. But time would tell," Lee, who played 45 ODIs for Australia, added. India's next assignment will be a full-fledged home series against England starting from February 5. India and England will play four Test, five T20Is and three ODIs.

Indian players look 'bit scared' under Virat Kohli, opines Lee

After being praised by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi during 'Mann Ki Baat', the Indian cricket team was lauded by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman during the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/budget">Budget 2021 </a>speech on Monday.&nbsp;

Heaping praise on the Indian cricket team and its performance in the recently concluded Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/nirmala-sitharaman">Nirmala Sitharaman</a> said that that Team India's performance Down Under reminded everyone of human qualities, particularly youth, and their will to succeed. &nbsp;

<h2>Team India's win in Australia epitomise abundant promise: Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman</h2>

"I can't help but recall the joy that we as a cricket-loving nation felt after the team India's recent spectacular success in Australia. &nbsp;

"It has reminded us of all the qualities that we as people, particularly our youth, epitomise having abundant promise and the unsuppressed first to perform and to succeed," Nirmala Sitharaman said.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/teams-hard-work-was-inspiring-pm-narendra-modi-praises-team-india-for-historic-win-in-australia-360414">PM Narendra Modi praises Team India for historic win in Australia</a>

While India started the series with a devastating defeat in Adelaide, the visitors, in the absence of some of their biggest stars, bounced back to win the Melbourne Test, draw the Sydney Test and defy all the odds to win the Gabba Test as they scripted history by winning two Test series on the bounce on Australian soil.&nbsp;

Before lauding the Indian team, Sitharaman also recalled Rabindranath Tagore's words: "Faith is the bird that feels the light and sings when the dawn is still dark."&nbsp;

Presenting one of the most-awaited Budget, Sitharaman announced ₹2,83,846 lakh crore for health and wellness sector which also includes ₹35,000 crore for Covid-19 vaccines.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/union-budget-2021-two-more-vaccines-expected-soon-says-nirmala-sitharaman-360542">Union Budget 2021: Two more vaccines expected soon, says Nirmala Sitharaman</a>

With COVID-19 pandemic bringing down country's GDP growth to a mere 4 per cent, the Union Budget 2021 proposals rest on six pillars: Health and Well-Being, Physical and Financial capital and infrastructure, Inclusive Development for Aspirational India, Reinvigorating Human Capital, Innovation and R&amp;D, Minimum Govt., Maximum Governance&nbsp;

After being praised by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi during 'Mann Ki Baat', the Indian cricket team was lauded by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman during the Budget 2021 speech on Monday.

After being praised by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi during 'Mann Ki Baat', the Indian cricket team was lauded by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman during the Budget 2021 speech on Monday. Heaping praise on the Indian cricket team and its performance in the recently concluded Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia, Nirmala Sitharaman said that that Team India's performance Down Under reminded everyone of human qualities, particularly youth, and their will to succeed. Team India's win in Australia epitomise abundant promise: Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman "I can't help but recall the joy that we as a cricket-loving nation felt after the team India's recent spectacular success in Australia. "It has reminded us of all the qualities that we as people, particularly our youth, epitomise having abundant promise and the unsuppressed first to perform and to succeed," Nirmala Sitharaman said. ALSO READ: PM Narendra Modi praises Team India for historic win in Australia While India started the series with a devastating defeat in Adelaide, the visitors, in the absence of some of their biggest stars, bounced back to win the Melbourne Test, draw the Sydney Test and defy all the odds to win the Gabba Test as they scripted history by winning two Test series on the bounce on Australian soil. Before lauding the Indian team, Sitharaman also recalled Rabindranath Tagore's words: "Faith is the bird that feels the light and sings when the dawn is still dark." Presenting one of the most-awaited Budget, Sitharaman announced ₹2,83,846 lakh crore for health and wellness sector which also includes ₹35,000 crore for Covid-19 vaccines. ALSO READ: Union Budget 2021: Two more vaccines expected soon, says Nirmala Sitharaman With COVID-19 pandemic bringing down country's GDP growth to a mere 4 per cent, the Union Budget 2021 proposals rest on six pillars: Health and Well-Being, Physical and Financial capital and infrastructure, Inclusive Development for Aspirational India, Reinvigorating Human Capital, Innovation and R&D, Minimum Govt., Maximum Governance

Union Budget 2021: Nirmala Sitharaman recalls Team India's historic Gabba win in Australia

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/wwe-news">WWE</a> Royal Rumble 2021 sprung a few surprises as the Pay-Per-View event enthralled the fans with some high-octane action on and off the ring. While Bianca Belaire booked her spot in&nbsp;WrestleMania&nbsp;37, Edge scripted history to win the Men's Royal Rumble despite being the first entrant in the match. Whereas Roman Reigns defeated Kevin Owens to retain his title in what was a nail-biting Last Man Standing match.&nbsp;

With Royal Rumble 2021 now done and dusted and focus shifting to the much-awaited&nbsp;WrestleMania&nbsp;37, let us take a look at the list of winners in the recently concluded Royal Rumble 2021.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Women's Royal Rumble: Bianca Belair, who entered the Royal Rumble at the third spot, made four eliminations with Rhea Ripley being the final&nbsp;victim. Belair can now challenge either of Sasha Banks or Asuka at&nbsp;Wrestlemania&nbsp;37, scheduled to be held in April.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Putting the EST in wrESTlemania! 
I DID IT!<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RoyalRumble?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RoyalRumble</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ESTofWWE?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ESTofWWE</a> <a href="https://t.co/nHWX1hBw9Q">pic.twitter.com/nHWX1hBw9Q</a>
— Bianca Belair (@BiancaBelairWWE) <a href="https://twitter.com/BiancaBelairWWE/status/1356122446517121025?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 1, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Roman Reigns vs Kevin Owens: The match was arguably the best of the night with both the WWE superstars taking extreme punishments and going to the limit to win the match. While Owens came close to winning the championship after a long wait of four years, Reigns&nbsp;attacked the referee before three counts could be completed. Reigns ended the match with a submission move on Owens.&nbsp;

Goldberg vs Drew McIntyre: Another much-awaited match came to its conclusion as McIntyre retained his championship belt despite taking multiple hits including Goldberg's trademark spears and jackhammer. However, McIntyre finished the match with a Claymore Kick to continue his dominating run.&nbsp;

Charlotte Flair and Asuka vs Shayna Baszler and Nia Jax:&nbsp;The team of Nia Jax and Shayna Baszler defeated Charlotte Flair and Asuka to regain the women's tag team titles.&nbsp;

Sasha Banks vs Carmella: Sasha Banks retained her Smackdown Women Championship with a&nbsp;victory&nbsp;over Carmella.&nbsp;

Men's Royal Rumble: Entering the match at the first spot, Edge won the Royal Rumble for the second time in his career. With only Seth Rollins, Braun Strowman, Christian and Edge remaining in the ring,&nbsp;the latter took the chances as he waited for Rollins to&nbsp;eliminate&nbsp;Christian before pouncing on the chance to throw Rollins out of the ring and win the event.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
11 years to the day, <a href="https://twitter.com/EdgeRatedR?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@EdgeRatedR</a> WINS his second <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RoyalRumble?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RoyalRumble</a> Match! <a href="https://t.co/1n1O2b6E4M">pic.twitter.com/1n1O2b6E4M</a>
— WWE (@WWE) <a href="https://twitter.com/WWE/status/1356087361562619904?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 1, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

The WWE Royal Rumble 2021 sprung a few surprises as the Pay-Per-View event enthralled the fans with some high-octane action on and off the ring. While Bianca Belaire booked her spot in WrestleMania 37, Edge scripted history to win the Men's Royal Rumble despite being the first entrant in the match.

The WWE Royal Rumble 2021 sprung a few surprises as the Pay-Per-View event enthralled the fans with some high-octane action on and off the ring. While Bianca Belaire booked her spot in WrestleMania 37, Edge scripted history to win the Men's Royal Rumble despite being the first entrant in the match. Whereas Roman Reigns defeated Kevin Owens to retain his title in what was a nail-biting Last Man Standing match. With Royal Rumble 2021 now done and dusted and focus shifting to the much-awaited WrestleMania 37, let us take a look at the list of winners in the recently concluded Royal Rumble 2021. Women's Royal Rumble: Bianca Belair, who entered the Royal Rumble at the third spot, made four eliminations with Rhea Ripley being the final victim. Belair can now challenge either of Sasha Banks or Asuka at Wrestlemania 37, scheduled to be held in April. Putting the EST in wrESTlemania! I DID IT!#RoyalRumble #ESTofWWE pic.twitter.com/nHWX1hBw9Q — Bianca Belair (@BiancaBelairWWE) February 1, 2021 × Roman Reigns vs Kevin Owens: The match was arguably the best of the night with both the WWE superstars taking extreme punishments and going to the limit to win the match. While Owens came close to winning the championship after a long wait of four years, Reigns attacked the referee before three counts could be completed. Reigns ended the match with a submission move on Owens. Goldberg vs Drew McIntyre: Another much-awaited match came to its conclusion as McIntyre retained his championship belt despite taking multiple hits including Goldberg's trademark spears and jackhammer. However, McIntyre finished the match with a Claymore Kick to continue his dominating run. Charlotte Flair and Asuka vs Shayna Baszler and Nia Jax: The team of Nia Jax and Shayna Baszler defeated Charlotte Flair and Asuka to regain the women's tag team titles. Sasha Banks vs Carmella: Sasha Banks retained her Smackdown Women Championship with a victory over Carmella. Men's Royal Rumble: Entering the match at the first spot, Edge won the Royal Rumble for the second time in his career. With only Seth Rollins, Braun Strowman, Christian and Edge remaining in the ring, the latter took the chances as he waited for Rollins to eliminate Christian before pouncing on the chance to throw Rollins out of the ring and win the event. 11 years to the day, @EdgeRatedR WINS his second #RoyalRumble Match! pic.twitter.com/1n1O2b6E4M — WWE (@WWE) February 1, 2021 ×

Royal Rumble 2021: Edge scripts history, Bianca Belair set to headline WrestleMania 27

Cricket Australia on Wednesday concluded that Indian players were racially&nbsp;abused&nbsp;during the third Test at the Sydney Cricket Ground but cleared six people,&nbsp;who were kicked out of the stadium, of any charges&nbsp;following a probe.&nbsp;

Cricket chiefs and New South Wales police launched a probe after pacers Mohammed Siraj and Jasprit&nbsp;Bumrah&nbsp;complained about being target of discriminatory chants while they fielded by the boundary ropes on day three of the Sydney Test earlier in January.&nbsp;

On day four, the play was halted for close to 10 minutes when Siraj ran towards the umpires from the fine-leg boundary and pointed into the crowd.&nbsp;Indian captain Ajinkya Rahane was also seen having a word with the on-field umpires.&nbsp;

As many as six men were removed from their allocated seats and taken away by the stewards. However, they have now been cleared of any charges.&nbsp;

"CA confirms that members of the Indian cricket team were subjected to racial abuse," the governing body's integrity chief Sean Carroll said in a statement.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australia-axe-wade-keep-paine-as-captain-for-south-africa-test-tour-359588" hreflang="en">Australia axe Wade, keep Paine as captain for South Africa Test tour</a>

"CA's own investigation into the matter remains open, with CCTV footage, ticketing data and interviews with spectators still being&nbsp;analysed&nbsp;in an attempt to locate those responsible."&nbsp;&nbsp;

But it added: "CA's investigation concluded that the spectators filmed and/or photographed by media in the Brewongle Stand concourse at the conclusion of the 86th over on day four of the Test&nbsp;did not engage in racist&nbsp;behaviour."&nbsp;

Even veteran Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin said it was not the first time there&nbsp;had been such issues in Sydney.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"It's definitely not acceptable in this day and age... we must make sure it doesn't happen again," he said.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ajinkya-rahane-reacts-to-captaincy-debate-ahead-of-england-series-359483" hreflang="en">Ajinkya Rahane reacts to captaincy debate ahead of England series</a>

Cricket Australia issued&nbsp;a&nbsp;heartfelt apology to India at that time as the cricket body said anyone found guilty would face consequences and referral to the police.&nbsp;

The Australian board has forwarded the findings to the International Cricket Council while the New South&nbsp;Wales Police continues to investigate.&nbsp;

After the conclusion of the tour, pacer Siraj had revealed that on-field umpires gave India the option to walk out of the field but skipper Rahane, standing in for Virat Kohli, stood his ground and said they want to play due&nbsp;to the sheer respect for the game.&nbsp;

India won the four-Test series 2-1 in what was a historic achievement by the visitors.&nbsp;

Cricket Australia on Wednesday concluded that Indian players were racially abused during the third Test at the Sydney Cricket Ground but cleared six people, who were kicked out of the stadium, of any charges following a probe.

Cricket Australia on Wednesday concluded that Indian players were racially abused during the third Test at the Sydney Cricket Ground but cleared six people, who were kicked out of the stadium, of any charges following a probe. Cricket chiefs and New South Wales police launched a probe after pacers Mohammed Siraj and Jasprit Bumrah complained about being target of discriminatory chants while they fielded by the boundary ropes on day three of the Sydney Test earlier in January. On day four, the play was halted for close to 10 minutes when Siraj ran towards the umpires from the fine-leg boundary and pointed into the crowd. Indian captain Ajinkya Rahane was also seen having a word with the on-field umpires. As many as six men were removed from their allocated seats and taken away by the stewards. However, they have now been cleared of any charges. "CA confirms that members of the Indian cricket team were subjected to racial abuse," the governing body's integrity chief Sean Carroll said in a statement. ALSO READ: Australia axe Wade, keep Paine as captain for South Africa Test tour "CA's own investigation into the matter remains open, with CCTV footage, ticketing data and interviews with spectators still being analysed in an attempt to locate those responsible." But it added: "CA's investigation concluded that the spectators filmed and/or photographed by media in the Brewongle Stand concourse at the conclusion of the 86th over on day four of the Test did not engage in racist behaviour." Even veteran Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin said it was not the first time there had been such issues in Sydney. "It's definitely not acceptable in this day and age... we must make sure it doesn't happen again," he said. ALSO READ: Ajinkya Rahane reacts to captaincy debate ahead of England series Cricket Australia issued a heartfelt apology to India at that time as the cricket body said anyone found guilty would face consequences and referral to the police. The Australian board has forwarded the findings to the International Cricket Council while the New South Wales Police continues to investigate. After the conclusion of the tour, pacer Siraj had revealed that on-field umpires gave India the option to walk out of the field but skipper Rahane, standing in for Virat Kohli, stood his ground and said they want to play due to the sheer respect for the game. India won the four-Test series 2-1 in what was a historic achievement by the visitors.

Cricket Australia confirms Indian players racially abused at the SCG

The coronavirus pandemic could cost Europe's 20 highest earning football clubs over two billion euros ($2.4 billion, £1.4 billion), according to forecasts from financial experts Deloitte.

Deloitte's latest Football Money League report shows that revenues of the 20 clubs analysed fell by 1.1 billion euros in the 2019/20 season due to closed stadiums and television rebates.

Some of that revenue will be recouped in the accounts for the 2020/21 season. The financial year at most clubs ends on June 30, meaning some prize money and broadcast income for domestic leagues and European competitions that completed beyond that date is not included in last season's figures.&nbsp;

However, the ongoing effects of the virus will make an even bigger dent on club finances in 20/21 with stadia largely shut to supporters across the continent for the entire season so far and little sign of restrictions being eased.

Even as the games have gone on behind closed doors, broadcasters have been compensated for a disruption to the original schedule and the lack of atmosphere produced by empty stadiums.

Rebates for Europe's 'top five' leagues in England, Spain, Germany, France and Italy, and UEFA's Champions League and Europa League competitions already total almost 1.2 billion euros.

"We usually release our money league and talk about the growth in revenue but of course football is not immune to the Covid-19 pandemic," said Tim Bridge of Deloitte's Sports Business Group.

"The revenue that's been missed out on is driven by the lack of fans in the stadium, the lack of interaction on a matchday - fans spending in the club shop and buying food and drink - and there is an element that relates to revenue that broadcasters have either clawed back or deferred to next year."

Spanish giants Barcelona maintained their position at the top of the revenue table despite their income falling 15 percent to 715 million euros.

However, the Catalans are still mired in an economic crisis due to spiralling debts of 1.2 billion euros according to accounts released by the club on Monday.

Real Madrid remain second, just 200,000 euros behind Barca's revenue.

Bayern Munich leapfrogged Manchester United into third due to the latter missing out on Champions League football last season.

In fourth, United are still the highest ranking English club among seven Premier League sides -- also featuring Liverpool, Manchester City, Chelsea, Tottenham, Arsenal and Everton -- in the top 20.

Zenit St Petersburg are the only club outside the top five leagues among the list.

The impact of the pandemic has seen some of the biggest clubs push through competition reform to guarantee bigger revenues.

Speculation has mounted over a breakaway European Super League, but last week FIFA and UEFA warned any players that took part in such a competition would risk being banned from major international tournaments such as the World Cup.

The coronavirus pandemic could cost Europe's 20 highest earning football clubs over two billion euros ($2.4 billion, £1.4 billion), according to forecasts from financial experts Deloitte.

The coronavirus pandemic could cost Europe's 20 highest earning football clubs over two billion euros ($2.4 billion, £1.4 billion), according to forecasts from financial experts Deloitte. Deloitte's latest Football Money League report shows that revenues of the 20 clubs analysed fell by 1.1 billion euros in the 2019/20 season due to closed stadiums and television rebates. Some of that revenue will be recouped in the accounts for the 2020/21 season. The financial year at most clubs ends on June 30, meaning some prize money and broadcast income for domestic leagues and European competitions that completed beyond that date is not included in last season's figures. However, the ongoing effects of the virus will make an even bigger dent on club finances in 20/21 with stadia largely shut to supporters across the continent for the entire season so far and little sign of restrictions being eased. Even as the games have gone on behind closed doors, broadcasters have been compensated for a disruption to the original schedule and the lack of atmosphere produced by empty stadiums. Rebates for Europe's 'top five' leagues in England, Spain, Germany, France and Italy, and UEFA's Champions League and Europa League competitions already total almost 1.2 billion euros. "We usually release our money league and talk about the growth in revenue but of course football is not immune to the Covid-19 pandemic," said Tim Bridge of Deloitte's Sports Business Group. "The revenue that's been missed out on is driven by the lack of fans in the stadium, the lack of interaction on a matchday - fans spending in the club shop and buying food and drink - and there is an element that relates to revenue that broadcasters have either clawed back or deferred to next year." Spanish giants Barcelona maintained their position at the top of the revenue table despite their income falling 15 percent to 715 million euros. However, the Catalans are still mired in an economic crisis due to spiralling debts of 1.2 billion euros according to accounts released by the club on Monday. Real Madrid remain second, just 200,000 euros behind Barca's revenue. Bayern Munich leapfrogged Manchester United into third due to the latter missing out on Champions League football last season. In fourth, United are still the highest ranking English club among seven Premier League sides -- also featuring Liverpool, Manchester City, Chelsea, Tottenham, Arsenal and Everton -- in the top 20. Zenit St Petersburg are the only club outside the top five leagues among the list. The impact of the pandemic has seen some of the biggest clubs push through competition reform to guarantee bigger revenues. Speculation has mounted over a breakaway European Super League, but last week FIFA and UEFA warned any players that took part in such a competition would risk being banned from major international tournaments such as the World Cup.

Europe's top clubs face two billion euro coronavirus hit - report

Manchester City thrashed West Brom 5-0 to move back top of the Premier League on Tuesday as Arsenal aided their push towards the European places with a 3-1 win at Southampton.

City have now won 11 consecutive games since West Brom earned a shock 1-1 draw at the Etihad last month.

Pep Guardiola's men have hit top form since and did not miss the presence of the injured Kevin De Bruyne in blowing away the Baggies by scoring four goals before half-time.

Ilkay Gundogan opened the floodgates by curling home from the edge of the box before Joao Cancelo's controversial strike doubled City's lead.

The West Brom defence was distracted by a wrongly raised offside flag before the Portuguese full-back found the net, but the goal stood after a VAR review.

Gundogan then took his tally to seven goals in his last eight league games before Riyad Mahrez and Raheem Sterling rounded off the scoring.

"There's not really a secret," Gundogan said of his scoring streak. "I'm just in the right spaces at the right moment. I'm in a bit more of an offensive role, if I get the chance close to the box I try to make the right decisions."

West Brom have now conceded 17 goals in Sam Allardyce's four home games in charge as they remain second bottom of the table, six points off safety.

<h2>- Arsenal on the rise -</h2>

Guardiola's former assistant Mikel Arteta is also enjoying a fine run of form as Arsenal have taken 16 from the last possible 18 points.

The Gunners avenged their FA Cup to Southampton at the weekend despite falling behind after three minutes to Stuart Armstrong's sweet strike.

Nicolas Pepe quickly levelled before Bukayo Saka rounded Alex McCarthy and slotted home to give the visitors at half-time lead.

"I think we were good from the start. We conceded a goal from a corner but responded straight away," said Arteta.

"It showed a lot of intelligent and resilience from the team in the way they managed the game."

Alexandre Lacazette sealed a vital three points 18 minutes from time as Arsenal moved up to eighth and within five points of the top four.

<h2>- West Ham go fourth -</h2>

West Ham occupy the fourth Champions League place as Tomas Soucek scored twice in a 3-2 win at Crystal Palace.

The Hammers suffered an early setback when Wilfried Zaha put Palace in front after just three minutes.

But the stronger mentality that David Moyes has lauded in West Ham this season showed as Soucek struck twice in 16 minutes to turn the game around.

Only Manchester United's Bruno Fernandes has scored more Premier League goals from midfield than the Czech since he joined from Slavia Prague a year ago.

Craig Dawson headed in Jarrod Bowen's corner 25 minutes from time to make it 3-1 before Michy Batshuayi scored a late consolation for Palace.

A sixth consecutive win in all competitions takes Moyes's men above Liverpool in the table and Jurgen Klopp's struggling Reds will be wary of their trip to the London Stadium on Sunday.

At the other end of the table, Newcastle lost 2-1 at home to Leeds to stretch their winless run to 11 games

"This league is demanding and cruel at times," said beleaguered Magpies boss Steve Bruce.

Raphinha slotted home Rodrigo's cut-back to give Marcelo Bielsa's men a deserved half-time lead.

Miguel Almiron levelled with Newcastle's first goal for five games early in the second half, but parity lasted only four minutes before Jack Harrison's sensational finish with the outside of his left foot claimed all three points for the visitors.

Newcastle have a seven-point cushion over the bottom three, but have now played two games more than Fulham in 18th.

Manchester City thrashed West Brom 5-0 to move back top of the Premier League on Tuesday as Arsenal aided their push towards the European places with a 3-1 win at Southampton.

Manchester City thrashed West Brom 5-0 to move back top of the Premier League on Tuesday as Arsenal aided their push towards the European places with a 3-1 win at Southampton. City have now won 11 consecutive games since West Brom earned a shock 1-1 draw at the Etihad last month. Pep Guardiola's men have hit top form since and did not miss the presence of the injured Kevin De Bruyne in blowing away the Baggies by scoring four goals before half-time. Ilkay Gundogan opened the floodgates by curling home from the edge of the box before Joao Cancelo's controversial strike doubled City's lead. The West Brom defence was distracted by a wrongly raised offside flag before the Portuguese full-back found the net, but the goal stood after a VAR review. Gundogan then took his tally to seven goals in his last eight league games before Riyad Mahrez and Raheem Sterling rounded off the scoring. "There's not really a secret," Gundogan said of his scoring streak. "I'm just in the right spaces at the right moment. I'm in a bit more of an offensive role, if I get the chance close to the box I try to make the right decisions." West Brom have now conceded 17 goals in Sam Allardyce's four home games in charge as they remain second bottom of the table, six points off safety. - Arsenal on the rise - Guardiola's former assistant Mikel Arteta is also enjoying a fine run of form as Arsenal have taken 16 from the last possible 18 points. The Gunners avenged their FA Cup to Southampton at the weekend despite falling behind after three minutes to Stuart Armstrong's sweet strike. Nicolas Pepe quickly levelled before Bukayo Saka rounded Alex McCarthy and slotted home to give the visitors at half-time lead. "I think we were good from the start. We conceded a goal from a corner but responded straight away," said Arteta. "It showed a lot of intelligent and resilience from the team in the way they managed the game." Alexandre Lacazette sealed a vital three points 18 minutes from time as Arsenal moved up to eighth and within five points of the top four. - West Ham go fourth - West Ham occupy the fourth Champions League place as Tomas Soucek scored twice in a 3-2 win at Crystal Palace. The Hammers suffered an early setback when Wilfried Zaha put Palace in front after just three minutes. But the stronger mentality that David Moyes has lauded in West Ham this season showed as Soucek struck twice in 16 minutes to turn the game around. Only Manchester United's Bruno Fernandes has scored more Premier League goals from midfield than the Czech since he joined from Slavia Prague a year ago. Craig Dawson headed in Jarrod Bowen's corner 25 minutes from time to make it 3-1 before Michy Batshuayi scored a late consolation for Palace. A sixth consecutive win in all competitions takes Moyes's men above Liverpool in the table and Jurgen Klopp's struggling Reds will be wary of their trip to the London Stadium on Sunday. At the other end of the table, Newcastle lost 2-1 at home to Leeds to stretch their winless run to 11 games "This league is demanding and cruel at times," said beleaguered Magpies boss Steve Bruce. Raphinha slotted home Rodrigo's cut-back to give Marcelo Bielsa's men a deserved half-time lead. Miguel Almiron levelled with Newcastle's first goal for five games early in the second half, but parity lasted only four minutes before Jack Harrison's sensational finish with the outside of his left foot claimed all three points for the visitors. Newcastle have a seven-point cushion over the bottom three, but have now played two games more than Fulham in 18th.

Man City go top, Arsenal gain revenge on Southampton

Author

Zee News Rajasthan

Editor

Subhayan Chakraborty

Home

Live Tv

Latest

World

India

Business

Entertainment

Sports

Opinions

Videos

Photos

Gravitas

Lifestyle

Science

Tech

Rajasthan News in Hindi: In-depth coverage of Rajasthan Crime, Political News, Education, Rajasthan Weather Update and Latest Rajasthan News on Zee News Rajasthan.