Tottenham left it late to see off Championship strugglers Wycombe 4-1 with three goals in the final four minutes to reach the FA Cup fifth round on Monday.

Jose Mourinho took the chance to leave Harry Kane, Son Heung-min and Tanguy Ndombele on the bench with Spurs facing a brutal schedule across four competitions in the coming months.

But all three were needed in the second-half to get past a Wycombe side that have won just three times in 23 games in the second-tier Championship this season.

"The attitude was very good. The players I brought from the bench come with the intention of bringing something to the team, so overall I think it was a good squad performance and a good result," Mourinho told BT Sport.

Gareth Bale was given a rare start in his second spell at Spurs by Mourinho, but the on-loan Real Madrid winger missed three big chances early on to give the visitors the lead.

Instead, Tottenham were forced to come from behind when Fred Onyedinma swept home at the far post on 25 minutes.

Japhet Tanganga and Moussa Sissoko struck the crossbar as chances continued to come and go for Mourinho's men until Bale made amends for his earlier misses by equalising in first-half stoppage time.

Tottenham host Liverpool in the Premier League on Thursday, but Mourinho held nothing in reserve as he tries to end the club's 13-year wait for a trophy by sending on Kane, Son and Ndombele after the break.

An extra 30 minutes were the last thing Spurs needed and they finally made the breakthrough when Harry Winks curled home from the edge of the area after Kane had been denied by Ryan Allsop.

Ndombele has been a player transformed in recent weeks after a difficult first season in England following his move from Lyon for Tottenham's club record fee.

The Frenchman tapped home Son's pass to make it 3-1 and then showed stunning footwork to bamboozle the Wycombe defence and fire in at the near post in stoppage time.

"He's very creative. He's one of these players that can break the balance." added Mourinho on Ndombele starting to deliver on his 60 million euros ($73 million, £53 million) price tag. "On top of that, if he can score a goal for us that's even better."

Spurs will face Everton away in the last 16 next month.

Tottenham left it late to see off Championship strugglers Wycombe 4-1 with three goals in the final four minutes to reach the FA Cup fifth round on Monday. Jose Mourinho took the chance to leave Harry Kane, Son Heung-min and Tanguy Ndombele on the bench with Spurs facing a brutal schedule across four competitions in the coming months.

Tottenham left it late to see off Championship strugglers Wycombe 4-1 with three goals in the final four minutes to reach the FA Cup fifth round on Monday. Jose Mourinho took the chance to leave Harry Kane, Son Heung-min and Tanguy Ndombele on the bench with Spurs facing a brutal schedule across four competitions in the coming months. But all three were needed in the second-half to get past a Wycombe side that have won just three times in 23 games in the second-tier Championship this season. "The attitude was very good. The players I brought from the bench come with the intention of bringing something to the team, so overall I think it was a good squad performance and a good result," Mourinho told BT Sport. Gareth Bale was given a rare start in his second spell at Spurs by Mourinho, but the on-loan Real Madrid winger missed three big chances early on to give the visitors the lead. Instead, Tottenham were forced to come from behind when Fred Onyedinma swept home at the far post on 25 minutes. Japhet Tanganga and Moussa Sissoko struck the crossbar as chances continued to come and go for Mourinho's men until Bale made amends for his earlier misses by equalising in first-half stoppage time. Tottenham host Liverpool in the Premier League on Thursday, but Mourinho held nothing in reserve as he tries to end the club's 13-year wait for a trophy by sending on Kane, Son and Ndombele after the break. An extra 30 minutes were the last thing Spurs needed and they finally made the breakthrough when Harry Winks curled home from the edge of the area after Kane had been denied by Ryan Allsop. Ndombele has been a player transformed in recent weeks after a difficult first season in England following his move from Lyon for Tottenham's club record fee. The Frenchman tapped home Son's pass to make it 3-1 and then showed stunning footwork to bamboozle the Wycombe defence and fire in at the near post in stoppage time. "He's very creative. He's one of these players that can break the balance." added Mourinho on Ndombele starting to deliver on his 60 million euros ($73 million, £53 million) price tag. "On top of that, if he can score a goal for us that's even better." Spurs will face Everton away in the last 16 next month.

Late show sees Spurs past Wycombe and into FA Cup fifth round

James Harden believes the best is yet to come after producing a late burst of scoring to lead the Brooklyn Nets to a 98-85 victory over the Miami Heat on Monday.

Harden -- who joined the Nets in a blockbuster trade from Houston earlier this month -- produced a dazzling burst of fourth-quarter scoring as Brooklyn finally overpowered an under-strength Miami team.

The 2018 NBA Most Valuable Player poured on 16 of his 20 points in the final period to lead the Brooklyn scoring alongside Kevin Durant, who also had 20.

Harden and Durant's contributions in the fourth quarter proved decisive, with the duo making a succession of three-pointers as Brooklyn reeled off 15 unanswered points.

Kyrie Irving had 16 points, while Joe Harris finished with 12 and DeAndre Jordan 11. The victory improved the Nets' season record to 11-8 in the Eastern Conference.

But it was Harden who caught the eye with his game-changing late cameo that swung the contest in Brooklyn's favor.

"I was in a role for eight years (in Houston) where I was controlling the ball, dominating the ball," Harden said. "Now it's a different experience for me but it's still great.

"It's still basketball at the end of the day. It's fun. Once we get a rhythm and flow it will be a lot easier for us.

<h2>- 'One of the greatest' -</h2>

Nets coach Steve Nash showered praise on Brooklyn's star new recruit.

"He was great," Nash said of Harden. "We're starting to see a glimpse of the things he can do scoring the ball.

"He's one of the greatest offensive players to ever play the game. He's so effective manipulating the defense that he's a positive even when he's not scoring."

Brooklyn are also starting to see the best of Durant, who delivered another consistent performance in the latest chapter in his return after a year-long injury absence. Durant has now scored 20 points or more in 14 straight games.

"Man, I feel good," Durant said. "Mentally I feel like I'm still catching up to the speed of the game, but physically I feel solid.

"I just try to come out there and produce, and rely on the work that I put in."

Elsewhere on Monday, LeBron James conjured another virtuoso performance for the Los Angeles Lakers in a 115-108 victory over the Cleveland Cavaliers in Ohio.

James finished with 46 points, eight rebounds and six assists to subdue his former club.

"It always feels great to get a win, especially in the purple and gold," James said afterwards.

"I'm just trying to build my game where I can beat them at all facets, from the perimeter, from the mid-range, from the low posts.

"Just trying to be dominant where I can keep the defense off-balance and I was able to do that tonight."

<h2>- 'Pretty awesome' -</h2>

Lakers coach Frank Vogel was left marveling at another ageless performance from the 36-year-old James.

"Pretty awesome just to see that he can still turn it up like that," Vogel said. "Obviously, he wanted to win against his former team here. One of those nights for the ages from him."

Anthony Davis finished with 17 points for the Lakers, while Dennis Schroder and Kentavious Caldwell-Pope had 10 points apiece.

The win nudged the Lakers back into first place in the Western Conference standings, with 14 wins and four defeats. The Los Angeles Clippers, who play in Atlanta on Tuesday, are second on 13-4.

Elsewhere on Monday, the lowly Detroit Pistons upset the Eastern Conference-leading Philadelphia 76ers 119-104 with the help of a 28-point haul from Delon Wright.

The Pistons, bottom of the East on 4-13, romped to a blowout win with Jerami Grant also adding 25 points.

In Dallas, meanwhile, Denver Nuggets guard Jamal Murray was ejected after appearing to hit the Mavericks' Tim Hardaway Jr in the groin in an off-the-ball incident in the third quarter. The Nuggets went on to win 117-113.

James Harden believes the best is yet to come after producing a late burst of scoring to lead the Brooklyn Nets to a 98-85 victory over the Miami Heat on Monday.

James Harden believes the best is yet to come after producing a late burst of scoring to lead the Brooklyn Nets to a 98-85 victory over the Miami Heat on Monday. Harden -- who joined the Nets in a blockbuster trade from Houston earlier this month -- produced a dazzling burst of fourth-quarter scoring as Brooklyn finally overpowered an under-strength Miami team. The 2018 NBA Most Valuable Player poured on 16 of his 20 points in the final period to lead the Brooklyn scoring alongside Kevin Durant, who also had 20. Harden and Durant's contributions in the fourth quarter proved decisive, with the duo making a succession of three-pointers as Brooklyn reeled off 15 unanswered points. Kyrie Irving had 16 points, while Joe Harris finished with 12 and DeAndre Jordan 11. The victory improved the Nets' season record to 11-8 in the Eastern Conference. But it was Harden who caught the eye with his game-changing late cameo that swung the contest in Brooklyn's favor. "I was in a role for eight years (in Houston) where I was controlling the ball, dominating the ball," Harden said. "Now it's a different experience for me but it's still great. "It's still basketball at the end of the day. It's fun. Once we get a rhythm and flow it will be a lot easier for us. - 'One of the greatest' - Nets coach Steve Nash showered praise on Brooklyn's star new recruit. "He was great," Nash said of Harden. "We're starting to see a glimpse of the things he can do scoring the ball. "He's one of the greatest offensive players to ever play the game. He's so effective manipulating the defense that he's a positive even when he's not scoring." Brooklyn are also starting to see the best of Durant, who delivered another consistent performance in the latest chapter in his return after a year-long injury absence. Durant has now scored 20 points or more in 14 straight games. "Man, I feel good," Durant said. "Mentally I feel like I'm still catching up to the speed of the game, but physically I feel solid. "I just try to come out there and produce, and rely on the work that I put in." Elsewhere on Monday, LeBron James conjured another virtuoso performance for the Los Angeles Lakers in a 115-108 victory over the Cleveland Cavaliers in Ohio. James finished with 46 points, eight rebounds and six assists to subdue his former club. "It always feels great to get a win, especially in the purple and gold," James said afterwards. "I'm just trying to build my game where I can beat them at all facets, from the perimeter, from the mid-range, from the low posts. "Just trying to be dominant where I can keep the defense off-balance and I was able to do that tonight." - 'Pretty awesome' - Lakers coach Frank Vogel was left marveling at another ageless performance from the 36-year-old James. "Pretty awesome just to see that he can still turn it up like that," Vogel said. "Obviously, he wanted to win against his former team here. One of those nights for the ages from him." Anthony Davis finished with 17 points for the Lakers, while Dennis Schroder and Kentavious Caldwell-Pope had 10 points apiece. The win nudged the Lakers back into first place in the Western Conference standings, with 14 wins and four defeats. The Los Angeles Clippers, who play in Atlanta on Tuesday, are second on 13-4. Elsewhere on Monday, the lowly Detroit Pistons upset the Eastern Conference-leading Philadelphia 76ers 119-104 with the help of a 28-point haul from Delon Wright. The Pistons, bottom of the East on 4-13, romped to a blowout win with Jerami Grant also adding 25 points. In Dallas, meanwhile, Denver Nuggets guard Jamal Murray was ejected after appearing to hit the Mavericks' Tim Hardaway Jr in the groin in an off-the-ball incident in the third quarter. The Nuggets went on to win 117-113.

Harden leads Nets over Heat, LeBron sparks Lakers

The world's ongoing coronavirus crisis and plunging public support in Japan have raised fears that the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, postponed last year and now due to start in July, may be cancelled.

As Japanese and International Olympic Committee officials insist the Games will go ahead, here are the major questions surrounding cancellation:

<h2>- What are officials saying? -</h2>

Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga said Friday he was "determined" to hold the Games this July, while a government spokesman dismissed a report claiming officials see cancellation as inevitable.

International Olympic Committee president Thomas Bach said last week there was "no reason whatsoever" for the event not to go ahead, but also admitted it may involve fewer fans, or even be held behind closed doors.

Decisions on whether to allow overseas fans, and how full venues will be, are set to be taken in the coming months.

<h2>- What do athletes think? -</h2>

Athlete pressure was seen as a driving force behind last year's postponement, with the Australian and Canadian Olympic committees pulling their teams out days before the decision was made.

This time, Australia, Canada and the United States have come out in support of the Games, and&nbsp;Greek pole vault champion Katerina Stefanidi -- who led calls for last year's postponement -- has said she would prefer it to be held with no fans than not at all.

Top US gymnast Simone Biles said the decision had to be based on "what's safe for the world", but added she was "hoping the Olympics can be put on, even if it means we're in a bubble".

But Japanese gymnastics star Kohei Uchimura sounded a note of caution, saying the event "can't be held if the athletes and the people don't feel the same way".

<h2>- What would cancellation cost? -</h2>

Tokyo 2020's latest budget was revealed as 1.64 trillion yen ($15.8 billion) in December -- up 294 billion yen ($2.8 billion) because of costs linked to the delay and virus countermeasures.

There are suggestions the final price-tag may be significantly higher, possibly making the event the most expensive Summer Olympics in history.

Calculating the cost of cancellation is complicated, especially as running the Games only accounts for about 0.1 percent of Japan's GDP.

Tomoaki Iwai, a political science professor at Nihon University, said cancellation could have a "tremendous economic impact" at a time when coronavirus is already a major headwind.

"The tourism sector and related businesses would see huge damage," he told AFP.

But other analysts argue tourism and spending linked to the Games is not that significant, meaning a cancellation would not necessarily involve massive losses.

<h2>- How would Japan's government react? -</h2>

Suga, who has only been in office since September, has seen his approval ratings nosedive over his handling of the coronavirus.&nbsp;

The greater Tokyo region and several other parts of the country are under a state of emergency until February 7, but the government has been accused of waiting too long to impose the measure and of mixed messaging.

Polls show around 80 percent of the public oppose holding the Games this year, so a cancellation might not be all bad news for Suga politically.

"It would strike me that the political risks of holding the Games and having them result in a new outbreak are greater than admitting that the risks are too great and working with the IOC to find some alternative plan that is more suitable," said Tobias Harris, a Japan analyst at Teneo Intelligence.

<h2>- What would it mean for Olympic sports? -</h2>

The IOC has vast reserves that have allowed it to cope with postponement, but experts say cancellation would have disastrous consequences for individual sports.

Many national and international sporting federations would find themselves in financial danger, with some relying on IOC payouts to survive.

Athletes who have trained for years to appear on the Olympic stage would find their hopes dashed, with many unsure whether they'll be able to qualify for the next Games, Paris 2024.

Cancellation would also deal a blow to the Olympics' image in an era when fewer cities have been coming forward to host the costly Games.

The world's ongoing coronavirus crisis and plunging public support in Japan have raised fears that the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, postponed last year and now due to start in July, may be cancelled.

The world's ongoing coronavirus crisis and plunging public support in Japan have raised fears that the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, postponed last year and now due to start in July, may be cancelled. As Japanese and International Olympic Committee officials insist the Games will go ahead, here are the major questions surrounding cancellation: - What are officials saying? - Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga said Friday he was "determined" to hold the Games this July, while a government spokesman dismissed a report claiming officials see cancellation as inevitable. International Olympic Committee president Thomas Bach said last week there was "no reason whatsoever" for the event not to go ahead, but also admitted it may involve fewer fans, or even be held behind closed doors. Decisions on whether to allow overseas fans, and how full venues will be, are set to be taken in the coming months. - What do athletes think? - Athlete pressure was seen as a driving force behind last year's postponement, with the Australian and Canadian Olympic committees pulling their teams out days before the decision was made. This time, Australia, Canada and the United States have come out in support of the Games, and Greek pole vault champion Katerina Stefanidi -- who led calls for last year's postponement -- has said she would prefer it to be held with no fans than not at all. Top US gymnast Simone Biles said the decision had to be based on "what's safe for the world", but added she was "hoping the Olympics can be put on, even if it means we're in a bubble". But Japanese gymnastics star Kohei Uchimura sounded a note of caution, saying the event "can't be held if the athletes and the people don't feel the same way". - What would cancellation cost? - Tokyo 2020's latest budget was revealed as 1.64 trillion yen ($15.8 billion) in December -- up 294 billion yen ($2.8 billion) because of costs linked to the delay and virus countermeasures. There are suggestions the final price-tag may be significantly higher, possibly making the event the most expensive Summer Olympics in history. Calculating the cost of cancellation is complicated, especially as running the Games only accounts for about 0.1 percent of Japan's GDP. Tomoaki Iwai, a political science professor at Nihon University, said cancellation could have a "tremendous economic impact" at a time when coronavirus is already a major headwind. "The tourism sector and related businesses would see huge damage," he told AFP. But other analysts argue tourism and spending linked to the Games is not that significant, meaning a cancellation would not necessarily involve massive losses. - How would Japan's government react? - Suga, who has only been in office since September, has seen his approval ratings nosedive over his handling of the coronavirus. The greater Tokyo region and several other parts of the country are under a state of emergency until February 7, but the government has been accused of waiting too long to impose the measure and of mixed messaging. Polls show around 80 percent of the public oppose holding the Games this year, so a cancellation might not be all bad news for Suga politically. "It would strike me that the political risks of holding the Games and having them result in a new outbreak are greater than admitting that the risks are too great and working with the IOC to find some alternative plan that is more suitable," said Tobias Harris, a Japan analyst at Teneo Intelligence. - What would it mean for Olympic sports? - The IOC has vast reserves that have allowed it to cope with postponement, but experts say cancellation would have disastrous consequences for individual sports. Many national and international sporting federations would find themselves in financial danger, with some relying on IOC payouts to survive. Athletes who have trained for years to appear on the Olympic stage would find their hopes dashed, with many unsure whether they'll be able to qualify for the next Games, Paris 2024. Cancellation would also deal a blow to the Olympics' image in an era when fewer cities have been coming forward to host the costly Games.

Will they, won't they? Key questions for troubled Tokyo Olympics

Japan's government said Tuesday it still planned to recruit 10,000 medical personnel for the virus-delayed Olympics, despite the heavy strain on the healthcare system caused by a third wave of infections.

Opposition politicians grilled the government over the plans in parliament, as medical associations raised the alarm about dwindling capacity.

Japan's government and Olympic officials have insisted the Games will open as scheduled this July, despite rising infections at home and abroad, and sinking domestic support.

And in parliament on Tuesday, Olympic Minister Seiko Hashimoto said the government was still committed to a plan to secure thousands of medical staff for the Games.

"We are trying to secure necessary medical staff of around 10,000, on the premise of asking doctors and nurses that each of them work about five days during the Games period," she said.

Games organisers are still discussing the exact medical provisions needed and how to "deal with Covid-19 infections" at the delayed event, she told parliament.

Just six months before the huge international event is due to begin, Tokyo and other areas are under a state of emergency to tackle a record spike in Covid-19 cases.

Japan has been hit less hard than many other countries, with about 5,000 virus deaths overall, but doctors have warned medical facilities are at risk of collapse -- especially if the Olympics triggers fresh outbreaks.

The worsened global virus situation has renewed doubts over the postponed 2020 Olympics, set to start in July, and polls indicate plunging public support in Japan.

In December, organisers announced safety measures including regular testing for athletes and an "infection control centre" to deal with positive cases.

But the Japan Medical Association's president raised the alarm last week over the possibility of overseas visitors coming for the Games.

Toshio Nakagawa said that, under current conditions, it would be "impossible" to admit to hospital any foreign visitor who caught coronavirus at the Games.

Around 11,000 athletes from some 200 countries are expected to take part in the Games, but a decision on spectators is not expected before spring.

The International Olympic Committee has said it will encourage all athletes to be vaccinated, and on Monday, the president of the French National Olympic Committee warned unvaccinated athletes would face "extremely difficult" conditions in Japan, including a 14-day quarantine.

Vaccinations are not set to start in Japan until late February at the earliest.

Japan's government said Tuesday it still planned to recruit 10,000 medical personnel for the virus-delayed Olympics, despite the heavy strain on the healthcare system caused by a third wave of infections.

Japan's government said Tuesday it still planned to recruit 10,000 medical personnel for the virus-delayed Olympics, despite the heavy strain on the healthcare system caused by a third wave of infections. Opposition politicians grilled the government over the plans in parliament, as medical associations raised the alarm about dwindling capacity. Japan's government and Olympic officials have insisted the Games will open as scheduled this July, despite rising infections at home and abroad, and sinking domestic support. And in parliament on Tuesday, Olympic Minister Seiko Hashimoto said the government was still committed to a plan to secure thousands of medical staff for the Games. "We are trying to secure necessary medical staff of around 10,000, on the premise of asking doctors and nurses that each of them work about five days during the Games period," she said. Games organisers are still discussing the exact medical provisions needed and how to "deal with Covid-19 infections" at the delayed event, she told parliament. Just six months before the huge international event is due to begin, Tokyo and other areas are under a state of emergency to tackle a record spike in Covid-19 cases. Japan has been hit less hard than many other countries, with about 5,000 virus deaths overall, but doctors have warned medical facilities are at risk of collapse -- especially if the Olympics triggers fresh outbreaks. The worsened global virus situation has renewed doubts over the postponed 2020 Olympics, set to start in July, and polls indicate plunging public support in Japan. In December, organisers announced safety measures including regular testing for athletes and an "infection control centre" to deal with positive cases. But the Japan Medical Association's president raised the alarm last week over the possibility of overseas visitors coming for the Games. Toshio Nakagawa said that, under current conditions, it would be "impossible" to admit to hospital any foreign visitor who caught coronavirus at the Games. Around 11,000 athletes from some 200 countries are expected to take part in the Games, but a decision on spectators is not expected before spring. The International Olympic Committee has said it will encourage all athletes to be vaccinated, and on Monday, the president of the French National Olympic Committee warned unvaccinated athletes would face "extremely difficult" conditions in Japan, including a 14-day quarantine. Vaccinations are not set to start in Japan until late February at the earliest.

Tokyo seeks 10,000 medical staff for Olympics despite virus surge

Tennis great Margaret Court insisted Tuesday she would not give back a high-profile Australian honour after a backlash over her views on the LGBTQ community, claiming she "loves" gay and transgender people.

The 78-year-old, the all-time record holder for Grand Slam titles who is now a church pastor, was elevated to a Companion of the Order of Australia on the country's national day Tuesday.

But news of the award -- Australia's highest honour -- saw Victoria state Premier Daniel Andrews slam her "disgraceful" and "hurtful" opinions.

And respected broadcaster Kerry O'Brien rejected his Australia Day gong in protest at the "insensitive" decision to honour Court, while LGBTQ advocate Dr Clara Tuck Meng Soo said she would hand back the medal she received in 2016.

Court has attracted controversy over her stance on sexuality and support of gay conversion therapy, drawing condemnation for saying "tennis is full of lesbians" and describing transgender children as "the work of the devil".

She enraged fellow tennis greats including Billie Jean King and Martina Navratilova when she announced a boycott of national airline Qantas for its CEO's support of same-sex marriage, which Australia introduced in 2017.

"No," Court said, when asked on Melbourne radio station 3AW if she would return the award.

"Because I loved representing my nation. When I got my AO (Officer of the Order of Australia) it was for my community outreach area, where we put out 75 tonnes of food a week.

"This was for my tennis and I think it was a long time coming and I'm very honoured... We did nothing but play for our nation."

Court, one of only five players to win all four Majors in the same year, refused to be drawn on Andrews' stance, while claiming her previous comments had been misrepresented by the media.

"I don't hate anybody, I love people and I love gay people and transgender people. We get them into our community services, we never turn anybody away," she said.

"I can be bullied, I've been bullied a lot in the last few years and I don't mind, that's all right.

"But if I say anything, then I'm a bigot and I'm everything else and I don't like that and I think the press has caused a lot of that."

Court's record of 24 Grand Slam singles titles has stood since 1973. Serena Williams, one behind on 23, will make her latest attempt to equal Court at next month's Australian Open.

Court said she would not be heading to Melbourne Park this year, where one of the show courts is named after her.

"No, I wasn't invited," she said. "With coronavirus, we've been so busy with our community work. I haven't even thought about it."

Tennis great Margaret Court insisted Tuesday she would not give back a high-profile Australian honour after a backlash over her views on the LGBTQ community, claiming she "loves" gay and transgender people.

Tennis great Margaret Court insisted Tuesday she would not give back a high-profile Australian honour after a backlash over her views on the LGBTQ community, claiming she "loves" gay and transgender people. The 78-year-old, the all-time record holder for Grand Slam titles who is now a church pastor, was elevated to a Companion of the Order of Australia on the country's national day Tuesday. But news of the award -- Australia's highest honour -- saw Victoria state Premier Daniel Andrews slam her "disgraceful" and "hurtful" opinions. And respected broadcaster Kerry O'Brien rejected his Australia Day gong in protest at the "insensitive" decision to honour Court, while LGBTQ advocate Dr Clara Tuck Meng Soo said she would hand back the medal she received in 2016. Court has attracted controversy over her stance on sexuality and support of gay conversion therapy, drawing condemnation for saying "tennis is full of lesbians" and describing transgender children as "the work of the devil". She enraged fellow tennis greats including Billie Jean King and Martina Navratilova when she announced a boycott of national airline Qantas for its CEO's support of same-sex marriage, which Australia introduced in 2017. "No," Court said, when asked on Melbourne radio station 3AW if she would return the award. "Because I loved representing my nation. When I got my AO (Officer of the Order of Australia) it was for my community outreach area, where we put out 75 tonnes of food a week. "This was for my tennis and I think it was a long time coming and I'm very honoured... We did nothing but play for our nation." Court, one of only five players to win all four Majors in the same year, refused to be drawn on Andrews' stance, while claiming her previous comments had been misrepresented by the media. "I don't hate anybody, I love people and I love gay people and transgender people. We get them into our community services, we never turn anybody away," she said. "I can be bullied, I've been bullied a lot in the last few years and I don't mind, that's all right. "But if I say anything, then I'm a bigot and I'm everything else and I don't like that and I think the press has caused a lot of that." Court's record of 24 Grand Slam singles titles has stood since 1973. Serena Williams, one behind on 23, will make her latest attempt to equal Court at next month's Australian Open. Court said she would not be heading to Melbourne Park this year, where one of the show courts is named after her. "No, I wasn't invited," she said. "With coronavirus, we've been so busy with our community work. I haven't even thought about it."

Tennis great Court vows to keep Aussie award despite backlash

Fast bowler Kagiso Rabada took two wickets for just eight runs as he led a South African fightback against Pakistan in their first Test in Karachi Tuesday.

Pakistan were in trouble at 33 for four at the close of play, having bowled out the visitors for 220 -- their second-lowest total in the country.

Fourteen wickets fell on the brownish National Stadium pitch, which had been expected to take spin from day one.&nbsp;

South Africa were well placed at 108-2 soon after lunch, but lost their last eight wickets for just 112 runs -- barely managing to overhaul their lowest total in Pakistan, the 214 made at Faisalabad in 1997.&nbsp;

Spinners Yasir Shah (3-54), debutant Nauman Ali (2-38) and pacer Shaheen Shah Afridi (2-49) did the damage.

But then Rabada paid back the hosts with interest, bowling Abid Ali (four) in his third over and then getting debutant Imran Butt (nine) caught at leg-slip off a rising delivery.

He now has 199 wickets from 44 Tests.

Babar Azam, leading Pakistan for the first time in a Test, fell lbw to spinner Keshav Maharaj for seven before night watchman Shaheen was bowled by Anrich Nortje without scoring.&nbsp;

At the close, Azhar Ali and Fawad Alam were unbeaten on five each - with Pakistan trailing by 187 runs with six wickets intact.

Earlier, opener Dean Elgar top-scored for South Africa with 58, while George Linde (35) and Rabada (21 not out) were other notable contributors.

While lamenting his side's poor batting, Elgar said South Africa now had the upper hand.

"I would not have said that after our batting, but then we fought back by taking wickets," he said.

"Knowing that this pitch will get tougher, and knowing that we have good spinners, I am confident that we can get further ahead."

Elgar struck his 16th Test half-century -- laced with nine boundaries -- before he edged Nauman into the hands of Azam at slip.

Elgar and Faf du Plessis (23) had steadied the innings during their 45-run stand for the third wicket after Aiden Markram (13) and Rassie van der Dussen (17) were dismissed in the first session.

Both sides entered the Test with two spinners and three pace bowlers.

The two-match series marks the first tour by South Africa to Pakistan in 14 years, a positive step for the revival of international cricket in the host country.

A deadly attack on Sri Lanka's team in 2009 froze international tours to Pakistan before their gradual resumption in recent years.

Fast bowler Kagiso Rabada took two wickets for just eight runs as he led a South African fightback against Pakistan in their first Test in Karachi Tuesday. Pakistan were in trouble at 33 for four at the close of play, having bowled out the visitors for 220 -- their second-lowest total in the country.

Fast bowler Kagiso Rabada took two wickets for just eight runs as he led a South African fightback against Pakistan in their first Test in Karachi Tuesday. Pakistan were in trouble at 33 for four at the close of play, having bowled out the visitors for 220 -- their second-lowest total in the country. Fourteen wickets fell on the brownish National Stadium pitch, which had been expected to take spin from day one. South Africa were well placed at 108-2 soon after lunch, but lost their last eight wickets for just 112 runs -- barely managing to overhaul their lowest total in Pakistan, the 214 made at Faisalabad in 1997. Spinners Yasir Shah (3-54), debutant Nauman Ali (2-38) and pacer Shaheen Shah Afridi (2-49) did the damage. But then Rabada paid back the hosts with interest, bowling Abid Ali (four) in his third over and then getting debutant Imran Butt (nine) caught at leg-slip off a rising delivery. He now has 199 wickets from 44 Tests. Babar Azam, leading Pakistan for the first time in a Test, fell lbw to spinner Keshav Maharaj for seven before night watchman Shaheen was bowled by Anrich Nortje without scoring. At the close, Azhar Ali and Fawad Alam were unbeaten on five each - with Pakistan trailing by 187 runs with six wickets intact. Earlier, opener Dean Elgar top-scored for South Africa with 58, while George Linde (35) and Rabada (21 not out) were other notable contributors. While lamenting his side's poor batting, Elgar said South Africa now had the upper hand. "I would not have said that after our batting, but then we fought back by taking wickets," he said. "Knowing that this pitch will get tougher, and knowing that we have good spinners, I am confident that we can get further ahead." Elgar struck his 16th Test half-century -- laced with nine boundaries -- before he edged Nauman into the hands of Azam at slip. Elgar and Faf du Plessis (23) had steadied the innings during their 45-run stand for the third wicket after Aiden Markram (13) and Rassie van der Dussen (17) were dismissed in the first session. Both sides entered the Test with two spinners and three pace bowlers. The two-match series marks the first tour by South Africa to Pakistan in 14 years, a positive step for the revival of international cricket in the host country. A deadly attack on Sri Lanka's team in 2009 froze international tours to Pakistan before their gradual resumption in recent years.

Pakistan in trouble as Rabada leads South Africa fightback

Barcelona have topped the Deloitte Football Money League after the financial performances of the highest revenue-generating clubs were charted for the 2019-20 season. While Barca sit atop the&nbsp;list, the likes of Real Madrid and Bayern Munich complete the top three.&nbsp;

For the first time since 2013, Manchester United dropped out of the top three of the Deloitte Football Money League while Liverpool's on-pitch success helped them be in the top five for the first time since 2001-02 season.&nbsp;

Manchester City continue to remain in the sixth spot with Premier League clubs Tottenham Hotspur (9), Arsenal (11) and Everton (17) also placed in the top 20.&nbsp;

Given the hardships amid COVID-19 pandemic, the top 20 clubs witnessed a revenue decline of 12 per cent as compared to the 2018-19 season. The sharp decline comes due to a drop in broadcast revenue and fall in matchday revenue.&nbsp;

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Tim Bridge, director of Deloitte Sports Business Group, said that the "digital model" helped Liverpool sit on the fifth spot besides their Premier League success.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/europes-top-clubs-face-two-billion-euro-coronavirus-hit-report-359468" hreflang="en">Europe's top clubs face two billion euro coronavirus hit - report</a>

"The on-pitch success is a massive factor," Bridge&nbsp;told Sky Sports. "Building on winning the Champions League and then taking the Premier League crown for the first time has had a significant impact. They have moved significantly towards a more digital model, and have been doing for a number of years.&nbsp;

"That has benefitted them in comparison to others during the pandemic because they are able to engage with their fans in a&nbsp;way others&nbsp;probably had to pay catch-up."&nbsp;

While Liverpool played both their UEFA Champions League Round of 16 matches in one financial year, Manchester City were forced to play the fixtures in two financial years due to COVID-19 pandemic.&nbsp;

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"But with those placings, take a little bit of care because with the timings of the fixtures they were able to generate more revenue ahead of Manchester City," said Bridge.&nbsp;

"Had timings been a little bit different, those rankings may have been different."&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/will-they-wont-they-key-questions-for-troubled-tokyo-olympics-359408" hreflang="en">Will they, won't they? Key questions for troubled Tokyo Olympics</a>

Whereas Manchester United had largest year-on-year decline among the top 20 clubs in the Deloitte Football Money League. Bridge&nbsp;emphasised&nbsp;that the sharp drop comes due to their lack of Champions League football.&nbsp;

Bridge said: "The reason for the decrease is predominantly driven by the pandemic, as you can imagine Manchester United with a huge fanbase generate significant amounts of revenue every time they play at Old Trafford.&nbsp;

"They are going to be impacted in a more significant way than many other clubs. Of course, last year they didn't have Champions League football either, so the revenue differential from competing in the Europa League compared to the Champions League had a significant impact on the numbers.&nbsp;

"But caution is needed. With Bayern Munich moving ahead of them, they were able to complete their domestic season in the timeframe, so the numbers for Bayern represent a full year of domestic football, whereas for United they are curtailed."&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Barcelona have topped the Deloitte Football Money League after the financial performances of the highest revenue-generating clubs were charted for the 2019-20 season.

Barcelona have topped the Deloitte Football Money League after the financial performances of the highest revenue-generating clubs were charted for the 2019-20 season. While Barca sit atop the list, the likes of Real Madrid and Bayern Munich complete the top three. For the first time since 2013, Manchester United dropped out of the top three of the Deloitte Football Money League while Liverpool's on-pitch success helped them be in the top five for the first time since 2001-02 season. Manchester City continue to remain in the sixth spot with Premier League clubs Tottenham Hotspur (9), Arsenal (11) and Everton (17) also placed in the top 20. Given the hardships amid COVID-19 pandemic, the top 20 clubs witnessed a revenue decline of 12 per cent as compared to the 2018-19 season. The sharp decline comes due to a drop in broadcast revenue and fall in matchday revenue. Tim Bridge, director of Deloitte Sports Business Group, said that the "digital model" helped Liverpool sit on the fifth spot besides their Premier League success. ALSO READ: Europe's top clubs face two billion euro coronavirus hit - report "The on-pitch success is a massive factor," Bridge told Sky Sports. "Building on winning the Champions League and then taking the Premier League crown for the first time has had a significant impact. They have moved significantly towards a more digital model, and have been doing for a number of years. "That has benefitted them in comparison to others during the pandemic because they are able to engage with their fans in a way others probably had to pay catch-up." While Liverpool played both their UEFA Champions League Round of 16 matches in one financial year, Manchester City were forced to play the fixtures in two financial years due to COVID-19 pandemic. Testing Times: Football Money League from Deloitte UK × "But with those placings, take a little bit of care because with the timings of the fixtures they were able to generate more revenue ahead of Manchester City," said Bridge. "Had timings been a little bit different, those rankings may have been different." ALSO READ: Will they, won't they? Key questions for troubled Tokyo Olympics Whereas Manchester United had largest year-on-year decline among the top 20 clubs in the Deloitte Football Money League. Bridge emphasised that the sharp drop comes due to their lack of Champions League football. Bridge said: "The reason for the decrease is predominantly driven by the pandemic, as you can imagine Manchester United with a huge fanbase generate significant amounts of revenue every time they play at Old Trafford. "They are going to be impacted in a more significant way than many other clubs. Of course, last year they didn't have Champions League football either, so the revenue differential from competing in the Europa League compared to the Champions League had a significant impact on the numbers. "But caution is needed. With Bayern Munich moving ahead of them, they were able to complete their domestic season in the timeframe, so the numbers for Bayern represent a full year of domestic football, whereas for United they are curtailed."

Barcelona top Deloitte Football Money League, Manchester United witness biggest drop

Ajinkya Rahane has been lauded for his leadership abilities following India's historic triumph against Australia but the Indian middle-order batsman made it clear that&nbsp;Virat Kohli is the undisputed leader of the Indian team while adding he is happy to fill in when required.&nbsp;

Rahane, who led the Indian team in the final three Tests against Australia, will be back being the deputy to Kohli during India's four-match Test series against England, starting on February 5.&nbsp;

"Nothing changes. Virat was and will always be the captain of the Test team and I am his deputy. When he was absent it was my duty to lead the side and my responsibility to give my best for Team India's success," Rahane, who was on his way to Chennai, told PTI in an exclusive interview.&nbsp;

For the Indian Test vice-captain, the priority is to have the ability to perform the captaincy role to perfection when needed.

"It's&nbsp;not the matter of merely being a captain. How you perform the&nbsp;captain's&nbsp;role is&nbsp;what's&nbsp;more important. So&nbsp;far,&nbsp;I have been successful. Hopefully, in future also, I will try to give&nbsp;these kinds of results&nbsp;for my team," said the man, who has led his country to four wins in five Tests.&nbsp;

Rahane, while reflecting on his relationship with Kohli, said they have always shared a good bonding with each other as he said their relationship has been based on transparency and mutual respect.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/joe-root-can-break-sachin-tendulkars-all-time-record-feels-geoffrey-boycott-359452" hreflang="en">Joe Root can break Sachin Tendulkar's all-time record, feels Geoffrey Boycott</a>

"Virat and I have always shared a good bonding with each other. He has time and again praised my batting. Both of us played memorable knocks for our team in India and overseas conditions. It only helped that Virat comes at No.4 and myself at No.5. We have had a lot of partnerships," the 32-year-old said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"We have always backed each&nbsp;other's&nbsp;game. When we are at the crease, we discuss threadbare about&nbsp;opposition's&nbsp;bowling. We caution each other whenever one of us plays a rash shot."&nbsp;

And how does&nbsp;Rahane&nbsp;find Kohli as a captain?&nbsp;

"Virat is a sharp captain. He takes good on-field decisions. Whenever the spinners are in operation, he is banking on me and he believes that taking those catches at slips off (Ravichandran) Ashwin and (Ravindra) Jadeja is one of my core competence areas.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bizarre-start-of-afghanistan-vs-ireland-3rd-odi-delayed-due-to-highway-closure-359433" hreflang="en">Bizarre! Start of Afghanistan vs Ireland 3rd ODI delayed due to highway closure</a>

"Virat expects a lot from me and I try and ensure not to let him down," said Rahane, who is 13&nbsp;short&nbsp;of a milestone of 100 catches in Test matches as an outfielder.&nbsp;

While fans and pundits heaped praise on Rahane – the leader – the elegant middle-order batsman downplayed his role by saying that he believes a captain is as good as his team. He further said that the complete credit of India's victory Down Under goes to the players.&nbsp;

"With regards to leadership, I can only say that it varies from person to person. A captain is as good as his team. When you win a match or a series,&nbsp;it's&nbsp;always a collective effort and not because of singular&nbsp;man's&nbsp;contribution.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"It's&nbsp;your teammates only, who make you a good leader. The complete credit of this series win belongs to my team," concluded the reticent cricketer.&nbsp;

(With PTI inputs)&nbsp;

Ajinkya Rahane has been lauded for his leadership abilities following India's historic triumph against Australia but the Indian middle-order batsman made it clear that Virat Kohli is the undisputed leader of the Indian team while adding he is happy to fill in when required.

Ajinkya Rahane has been lauded for his leadership abilities following India's historic triumph against Australia but the Indian middle-order batsman made it clear that Virat Kohli is the undisputed leader of the Indian team while adding he is happy to fill in when required. Rahane, who led the Indian team in the final three Tests against Australia, will be back being the deputy to Kohli during India's four-match Test series against England, starting on February 5. "Nothing changes. Virat was and will always be the captain of the Test team and I am his deputy. When he was absent it was my duty to lead the side and my responsibility to give my best for Team India's success," Rahane, who was on his way to Chennai, told PTI in an exclusive interview. For the Indian Test vice-captain, the priority is to have the ability to perform the captaincy role to perfection when needed. "It's not the matter of merely being a captain. How you perform the captain's role is what's more important. So far, I have been successful. Hopefully, in future also, I will try to give these kinds of results for my team," said the man, who has led his country to four wins in five Tests. Rahane, while reflecting on his relationship with Kohli, said they have always shared a good bonding with each other as he said their relationship has been based on transparency and mutual respect. ALSO READ:Joe Root can break Sachin Tendulkar's all-time record, feels Geoffrey Boycott "Virat and I have always shared a good bonding with each other. He has time and again praised my batting. Both of us played memorable knocks for our team in India and overseas conditions. It only helped that Virat comes at No.4 and myself at No.5. We have had a lot of partnerships," the 32-year-old said. "We have always backed each other's game. When we are at the crease, we discuss threadbare about opposition's bowling. We caution each other whenever one of us plays a rash shot." And how does Rahane find Kohli as a captain? "Virat is a sharp captain. He takes good on-field decisions. Whenever the spinners are in operation, he is banking on me and he believes that taking those catches at slips off (Ravichandran) Ashwin and (Ravindra) Jadeja is one of my core competence areas. ALSO READ: Bizarre! Start of Afghanistan vs Ireland 3rd ODI delayed due to highway closure "Virat expects a lot from me and I try and ensure not to let him down," said Rahane, who is 13 short of a milestone of 100 catches in Test matches as an outfielder. While fans and pundits heaped praise on Rahane – the leader – the elegant middle-order batsman downplayed his role by saying that he believes a captain is as good as his team. He further said that the complete credit of India's victory Down Under goes to the players. "With regards to leadership, I can only say that it varies from person to person. A captain is as good as his team. When you win a match or a series, it's always a collective effort and not because of singular man's contribution. "It's your teammates only, who make you a good leader. The complete credit of this series win belongs to my team," concluded the reticent cricketer. (With PTI inputs)

Ajinkya Rahane reacts to captaincy debate ahead of England series

Florida's chief financial officer on Monday offered to host the Olympic Games in the state amid speculations that the current hosts Japan may back out.&nbsp;

Jimmy Patronis sent a letter to IOC head Thomas Bach in a bid&nbsp;"to encourage you to consider relocating the 2021 Olympics from Tokyo, Japan to the United States of America, and more specifically to Florida."&nbsp;

"With media reports of leaders in Japan 'privately' concluding that they are too concerned about the pandemic for the 2021 Olympics to take place, there is still time to deploy a site selection team to Florida," he said.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/will-they-wont-they-key-questions-for-troubled-tokyo-olympics-359408" hreflang="en">Will they, won't they? Key questions for troubled Tokyo Olympics</a>

The letter gave the examples of the strength of state's vaccination roll-out, economic re-opening and sports events it has hosted amid the pandemic while stating the theme parks including Disney World&nbsp;are open for business. The letter was signed by Patronis and posted online.&nbsp;

However, Florida has struggled massively in the COVID-19 pandemic with over 25,000&nbsp;recorded in the state. The US death toll continues to near the 4,20,000 mark.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"Whatever precautions are required let's figure it out and get it done," Patronis said.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-seeks-10000-medical-staff-for-olympics-despite-virus-surge-359406" hreflang="en">Tokyo seeks 10,000 medical staff for Olympics despite virus surge</a>

&nbsp;On Friday, parties responsible for&nbsp;organising&nbsp;the Tokyo Games, originally scheduled for 2019 but delayed by a year due to the pandemic – said they would be going ahead with the scheduled dates of July 23 until August 8.&nbsp;

"I am determined to realize a safe and secure Tokyo Games as proof that mankind will have overcome the virus," said Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga.&nbsp;

Florida's chief financial officer on Monday offered to host the Olympic Games in the state amid speculations that the current hosts Japan may back out. Jimmy Patronis sent a letter to IOC head Thomas Bach in a bid "to encourage you to consider relocating the 2021 Olympics from Tokyo, Japan to the United States of America, and more specifically to Florida.

Florida's chief financial officer on Monday offered to host the Olympic Games in the state amid speculations that the current hosts Japan may back out. Jimmy Patronis sent a letter to IOC head Thomas Bach in a bid "to encourage you to consider relocating the 2021 Olympics from Tokyo, Japan to the United States of America, and more specifically to Florida." "With media reports of leaders in Japan 'privately' concluding that they are too concerned about the pandemic for the 2021 Olympics to take place, there is still time to deploy a site selection team to Florida," he said. ALSO READ: Will they, won't they? Key questions for troubled Tokyo Olympics The letter gave the examples of the strength of state's vaccination roll-out, economic re-opening and sports events it has hosted amid the pandemic while stating the theme parks including Disney World are open for business. The letter was signed by Patronis and posted online. However, Florida has struggled massively in the COVID-19 pandemic with over 25,000 recorded in the state. The US death toll continues to near the 4,20,000 mark. "Whatever precautions are required let's figure it out and get it done," Patronis said. ALSO READ: Tokyo seeks 10,000 medical staff for Olympics despite virus surge On Friday, parties responsible for organising the Tokyo Games, originally scheduled for 2019 but delayed by a year due to the pandemic – said they would be going ahead with the scheduled dates of July 23 until August 8. "I am determined to realize a safe and secure Tokyo Games as proof that mankind will have overcome the virus," said Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga.

Florida offers to host Olympics if Tokyo backs out

England cricket legend Geoffery Boycott has banked on Joe Root to surpass former India batsman&nbsp;Sachin&nbsp;Tendulkar's all-time record of scoring most runs in Test cricket. Boycott&nbsp;feels Root has all the potential to play Test cricket for a long time while also surpassing the runs scored by Tendulkar in the longest format of the game.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Boycott's comments come after Root incredibly led England to a 2-0 Test series win against Sri Lanka while scoring an impressive 426 runs in four innings at an average of 106.50 including scores of 228 and 186. Root also became England's fourth-highest Test run-scorer.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The former England batsman Boycott feel that Root has the ability to represent England for 200 Tests and can go on to score more than 15,921 runs - Tendulkar's record in Test&nbsp;cricket.&nbsp;

"Forget just scoring more Test runs for England than David Gower, Kevin Pietersen and myself. Joe Root has the potential to play 200 Tests and score more runs than even&nbsp;Sachin&nbsp;Tendulkar," Boycott wrote in a column for The Telegraph.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bizarre-start-of-afghanistan-vs-ireland-3rd-odi-delayed-due-to-highway-closure-359433" hreflang="en">Bizarre! Start of Afghanistan vs Ireland 3rd ODI delayed due to highway closure</a>

"Root is only 30. He has played 99 Tests and scored 8249 runs already. As long as he does not suffer serious injury there is no reason why he cannot beat Tendulkar’s all-time record of 15,921," Boycott added.&nbsp;

Root has already surpassed the likes of Kevin Pietersen and David Gower in the list of England's top run-scorers in Test cricket. Root&nbsp;is now behind Alastair Cook (12472), Graham Gooch (8900), and Alec Stewart (8463).&nbsp;He&nbsp;currently has 8249 runs to his name in 99 Tests at an average of 49.39 and is 26th on the list of highest Test run-getters of all-time.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/how-are-virat-kohli-ajinkya-rahane-different-as-captains-r-ashwin-gives-his-take-359178" hreflang="en">How are Virat Kohli, Ajinkya Rahane different as captains? R Ashwin gives his take</a>

"His contemporaries, such as Virat Kohli, Steve Smith and Kane Williamson, are wonderful players as well who could also score that many runs. We should enjoy Root and only judge him alongside those guys, not great names of the past because every player is a product of their environment," wrote Boycott.&nbsp;

The England Test skipper will be seen next in action when England take on India in a full-fledged series starting from February 5. England and India will play four Tests, five T20Is and three ODIs.&nbsp;

England cricket legend Geoffery Boycott has banked on Joe Root to surpass former India batsman Sachin Tendulkar's all-time record of scoring most runs in Test cricket.

England cricket legend Geoffery Boycott has banked on Joe Root to surpass former India batsman Sachin Tendulkar's all-time record of scoring most runs in Test cricket. Boycott feels Root has all the potential to play Test cricket for a long time while also surpassing the runs scored by Tendulkar in the longest format of the game. Boycott's comments come after Root incredibly led England to a 2-0 Test series win against Sri Lanka while scoring an impressive 426 runs in four innings at an average of 106.50 including scores of 228 and 186. Root also became England's fourth-highest Test run-scorer. The former England batsman Boycott feel that Root has the ability to represent England for 200 Tests and can go on to score more than 15,921 runs - Tendulkar's record in Test cricket. "Forget just scoring more Test runs for England than David Gower, Kevin Pietersen and myself. Joe Root has the potential to play 200 Tests and score more runs than even Sachin Tendulkar," Boycott wrote in a column for The Telegraph. ALSO READ: Bizarre! Start of Afghanistan vs Ireland 3rd ODI delayed due to highway closure "Root is only 30. He has played 99 Tests and scored 8249 runs already. As long as he does not suffer serious injury there is no reason why he cannot beat Tendulkar’s all-time record of 15,921," Boycott added. Root has already surpassed the likes of Kevin Pietersen and David Gower in the list of England's top run-scorers in Test cricket. Root is now behind Alastair Cook (12472), Graham Gooch (8900), and Alec Stewart (8463). He currently has 8249 runs to his name in 99 Tests at an average of 49.39 and is 26th on the list of highest Test run-getters of all-time. ALSO READ: How are Virat Kohli, Ajinkya Rahane different as captains? R Ashwin gives his take "His contemporaries, such as Virat Kohli, Steve Smith and Kane Williamson, are wonderful players as well who could also score that many runs. We should enjoy Root and only judge him alongside those guys, not great names of the past because every player is a product of their environment," wrote Boycott. The England Test skipper will be seen next in action when England take on India in a full-fledged series starting from February 5. England and India will play four Tests, five T20Is and three ODIs.

Joe Root can break Sachin Tendulkar's all-time record, feels Geoffrey Boycott

Reigning world champion PV Sindhu has been handed a tough draw at Thailand's World Tour Finals on Tuesday as the Indian star was pitted against world number one Tai Tzu-ying&nbsp;and home&nbsp;favourite&nbsp;Ratchanok&nbsp;Intanon.&nbsp;

Olympic silver&nbsp;medalist Sindhu was grouped against former world champion&nbsp;Ratchanok&nbsp;and Tai along with Thailand's&nbsp;Ponrpawee&nbsp;Chochuwong&nbsp;for the round-robin stage of the tournament in Bangkok, which is being played&nbsp;inside a bio-secure bubble.&nbsp;

The delayed 2020 season finale, scheduled to start from Wednesday, is the third behind-closed-doors event in three weeks in the Thai capital as badminton resumed after months owing to the COVID-19 pandemic.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/florida-offers-to-host-olympics-if-tokyo-backs-out-359423" hreflang="en">Florida offers to host Olympics if Tokyo backs out</a>

Whereas Spanish top-seed&nbsp;Carolina&nbsp;Marin, who is also looking to bag a hat-trick of wins in Bangkok, is set to take on South Korean teen sensation An&nbsp;Se-young, Canada's Michelle Li and Russia's Evgeniya&nbsp;Kosetskaya&nbsp;in Group A.&nbsp;

In the men's singles event, Denmark's Viktor Axelsen, unbeaten over the past fortnight, will take on Taiwan's world number two Chou Tien-Chen, Malaysia's Lee&nbsp;Zii&nbsp;Jia and Indonesia's Anthony&nbsp;Ginting.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/will-they-wont-they-key-questions-for-troubled-tokyo-olympics-359408" hreflang="en">Will they, won't they? Key questions for troubled Tokyo Olympics</a>

Men's champions Kento Momota had tested positive for the dreaded virus just before the tournament started, forcing him to withdraw along with the entire Japanese team. While China's team including women's title-holder Chen Yufei were unable to travel due to the country's strict COVID-19 rules.&nbsp;

Despite the bio-secure bubble and strict protocols, four people inside the Bangkok ''bubble'' have tested positive for coronavirus including two players who were forced to withdraw from the marquee event.&nbsp;

Reigning world champion PV Sindhu has been handed a tough draw at Thailand's World Tour Finals on Tuesday as the Indian star was pitted against world number one Tai Tzu-ying and home favourite Ratchanok Intanon.

Reigning world champion PV Sindhu has been handed a tough draw at Thailand's World Tour Finals on Tuesday as the Indian star was pitted against world number one Tai Tzu-ying and home favourite Ratchanok Intanon. Olympic silver medalist Sindhu was grouped against former world champion Ratchanok and Tai along with Thailand's Ponrpawee Chochuwong for the round-robin stage of the tournament in Bangkok, which is being played inside a bio-secure bubble. The delayed 2020 season finale, scheduled to start from Wednesday, is the third behind-closed-doors event in three weeks in the Thai capital as badminton resumed after months owing to the COVID-19 pandemic. ALSO READ: Florida offers to host Olympics if Tokyo backs out Whereas Spanish top-seed Carolina Marin, who is also looking to bag a hat-trick of wins in Bangkok, is set to take on South Korean teen sensation An Se-young, Canada's Michelle Li and Russia's Evgeniya Kosetskaya in Group A. In the men's singles event, Denmark's Viktor Axelsen, unbeaten over the past fortnight, will take on Taiwan's world number two Chou Tien-Chen, Malaysia's Lee Zii Jia and Indonesia's Anthony Ginting. ALSO READ: Will they, won't they? Key questions for troubled Tokyo Olympics Men's champions Kento Momota had tested positive for the dreaded virus just before the tournament started, forcing him to withdraw along with the entire Japanese team. While China's team including women's title-holder Chen Yufei were unable to travel due to the country's strict COVID-19 rules. Despite the bio-secure bubble and strict protocols, four people inside the Bangkok ''bubble'' have tested positive for coronavirus including two players who were forced to withdraw from the marquee event.

World Tour Finals: PV Sindhu handed a tough draw, to face Tai and Intanon

The start of the third ODI between Afghanistan and Ireland at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi on Tuesday witnessed a delay due to bizarre circumstances with fog affecting transportation in Abu Dhabi.&nbsp;Cricket world has witnessed matches being halted due to interruption by bees, sun interruptions, smog halting proceedings but Tuesday's incident of fog resulting in highway closure, which directly affected the match being delayed tops the chart.&nbsp;

The toss was scheduled for 9:30 am local time originally but was delayed by an hour and 15 minutes as the teams couldn't reach the venue on time as the fog in certain areas of Abu Dhabi caused a highway closure. The move affected the transportation which caused problems for both the teams as they failed to reach the stadium on time, resulting in the delayed start.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Afghanistan Cricket Board tweeted: "The start of play for the third ODI of #KardanUniversityCup is delayed due to fog in certain areas of Abu Dhabi affecting the transportation in the city."&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/security-covid-19-restrictions-make-pakistans-tour-tough-says-south-africas-mark-boucher-359418" hreflang="en">Security, COVID-19 restrictions make Pakistan's tour tough, says South Africa's Mark Boucher</a>

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
The start of play for the third ODI of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KardanUniversityCup?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KardanUniversityCup</a> is delayed due to fog in certain areas of Abu Dhabi affecting the transportation in the city.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AFGvIRE?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AFGvIRE</a>
— Afghanistan Cricket Board (@ACBofficials) <a href="https://twitter.com/ACBofficials/status/1353939535344840705?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 26, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Meanwhile, Afghanistan have already won the series by coming out victorious in the first two matches of the three-ODI series, by 16 runs and seven wickets respectively.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/will-they-wont-they-key-questions-for-troubled-tokyo-olympics-359408" hreflang="en">Will they, won't they? Key questions for troubled Tokyo Olympics</a>

After both the teams reached the stadium, the match was started. Ireland won the toss and opted to bowl first. Openers Javed Ahmadi and&nbsp;Rahmanullah&nbsp;Gurbaz gave Afghanistan a steady start but Craig Young dismissed both the openers soon while also scalping the wicket of Rahmat Shah. Soon after, Andy&nbsp;McBrine&nbsp;dismissed&nbsp;Hashmatullah&nbsp;Shahidi to put pressure on Afghanistan.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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The start of the third ODI between Afghanistan and Ireland at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi on Tuesday witnessed a delay due to bizarre circumstances with fog affecting transportation in Abu Dhabi.

The start of the third ODI between Afghanistan and Ireland at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi on Tuesday witnessed a delay due to bizarre circumstances with fog affecting transportation in Abu Dhabi. Cricket world has witnessed matches being halted due to interruption by bees, sun interruptions, smog halting proceedings but Tuesday's incident of fog resulting in highway closure, which directly affected the match being delayed tops the chart. The toss was scheduled for 9:30 am local time originally but was delayed by an hour and 15 minutes as the teams couldn't reach the venue on time as the fog in certain areas of Abu Dhabi caused a highway closure. The move affected the transportation which caused problems for both the teams as they failed to reach the stadium on time, resulting in the delayed start. Afghanistan Cricket Board tweeted: "The start of play for the third ODI of #KardanUniversityCup is delayed due to fog in certain areas of Abu Dhabi affecting the transportation in the city." ALSO READ: Security, COVID-19 restrictions make Pakistan's tour tough, says South Africa's Mark Boucher The start of play for the third ODI of #KardanUniversityCup is delayed due to fog in certain areas of Abu Dhabi affecting the transportation in the city.#AFGvIRE — Afghanistan Cricket Board (@ACBofficials) January 26, 2021 × Meanwhile, Afghanistan have already won the series by coming out victorious in the first two matches of the three-ODI series, by 16 runs and seven wickets respectively. ALSO READ: Will they, won't they? Key questions for troubled Tokyo Olympics After both the teams reached the stadium, the match was started. Ireland won the toss and opted to bowl first. Openers Javed Ahmadi and Rahmanullah Gurbaz gave Afghanistan a steady start but Craig Young dismissed both the openers soon while also scalping the wicket of Rahmat Shah. Soon after, Andy McBrine dismissed Hashmatullah Shahidi to put pressure on Afghanistan.

Bizarre! Start of Afghanistan vs Ireland 3rd ODI delayed due to highway closure

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