<p>An Indian player was approached by a nurse from Delhi during the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/ipl">Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020</a>, which was played in the United Arab Emirates, for "inside information" about IPL 2020 matches in a bid to bet on them, as per reports.</p>

<p>The nurse, who told the player that she is working at a South Delhi hospital, alleged approached the Indian cricketer on September 30 during the IPL 2020 and inquired about confidential information related to the team, according to an Indian Express report.</p>

<p>The Indian cricketer, whose identity has not been revealed, reported the matter to the Board of Control for Cricket in India's (BCCI) Anti-Corruption Unit. According the report, the Indian player had represented the country a few years ago but is not part of the current set-up.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-agm-10-team-ipl-approved-from-2022-edition-board-to-back-crickets-inclusion-in-2028-olympics-352059" hreflang="en">BCCI AGM: 10-team IPL approved from 2022 edition, board to back cricket's inclusion in 2028 Olympics</a></strong></p>

<p>The development surrounding the Indian player being approached for inside information by a nurse was confirmed by ACU chief Ajit Singh, who said the matter was now "closed". The incident was investigated soon after the ACU was informed by the player about it. The nurse, reportedly, had no connection with the betting world and no further lead was found.</p>

<p>The Indian cricketer is said to have connected with the nurse online three years back when she approached him as a fan. The report further said the player had recently contacted her to seek advice on precautions against COVID-19. The Indian player further told the ACU that he never met the nurse in person and only interacted with her on social media.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-overshadows-coronavirus-tops-list-of-most-trending-search-on-google-india-in-2020-348595" hreflang="en">IPL overshadows coronavirus, tops list of most trending search on Google India in 2020</a></strong></p>

<p>Reportedly, when the nurse asked for "inside information", the cricketer warned her that he would inform the authorities about her query to which she replied by saying that all messages would be deleted and she won't tell anyone about their conversations.</p>

<p>IPL 2020 was won by Mumbai Indians as the franchise lifted their fifth trophy - the most by a club in IPL history.</p>


An Indian player was approached by a nurse from Delhi during the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020, which was played in the United Arab Emirates, for "inside information" about IPL 2020 matches in a bid to bet on them, as per reports.

An Indian player was approached by a nurse from Delhi during the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020, which was played in the United Arab Emirates, for "inside information" about IPL 2020 matches in a bid to bet on them, as per reports. The nurse, who told the player that she is working at a South Delhi hospital, alleged approached the Indian cricketer on September 30 during the IPL 2020 and inquired about confidential information related to the team, according to an Indian Express report. The Indian cricketer, whose identity has not been revealed, reported the matter to the Board of Control for Cricket in India's (BCCI) Anti-Corruption Unit. According the report, the Indian player had represented the country a few years ago but is not part of the current set-up. ALSO READ: BCCI AGM: 10-team IPL approved from 2022 edition, board to back cricket's inclusion in 2028 Olympics The development surrounding the Indian player being approached for inside information by a nurse was confirmed by ACU chief Ajit Singh, who said the matter was now "closed". The incident was investigated soon after the ACU was informed by the player about it. The nurse, reportedly, had no connection with the betting world and no further lead was found. The Indian cricketer is said to have connected with the nurse online three years back when she approached him as a fan. The report further said the player had recently contacted her to seek advice on precautions against COVID-19. The Indian player further told the ACU that he never met the nurse in person and only interacted with her on social media. ALSO READ: IPL overshadows coronavirus, tops list of most trending search on Google India in 2020 Reportedly, when the nurse asked for "inside information", the cricketer warned her that he would inform the authorities about her query to which she replied by saying that all messages would be deleted and she won't tell anyone about their conversations. IPL 2020 was won by Mumbai Indians as the franchise lifted their fifth trophy - the most by a club in IPL history.

Indian player approached by Delhi nurse for 'inside information' during IPL 2020: Report

<p>The UAE Warriors 15 event, organised in partnership with Khabib Nurmagomedov, is set to take place on January 15 at the Jiu-jitsu Arena in Abu Dhabi. The much-awaited event, featuring Nurmagomedov, will be open to fans who have already taken the COVID-19 vaccine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A joint venture with Nurmagomedov's Eagle Fighting Championship, the UAE Warriors 15 will commemorate Khabib's father and longtime coach, Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov, who died in July 2019.</p>

<p>Reportedly, UAE Warriors 15 is set to be the first major sporting event in Abu Dhabi to welcome spectators since the COVID-19 pandemic began. Palms Sports, working on UAE Warriors, said that they are working closely with the National Crisis and Emergency Management Authority (NCEMA) to ensure the safe staging of the event.</p>

<p>"The joint EAGLE FC and UAE WARRIORS tournament, which will take place in Dubai on January 15, will be open to the public. The fighting promotion administration has reached a mutual agreement on spectators' admission upon proof of a special document indicating the vaccination against COVID-19, received in Dubai. We remind you that the tournament will be held at the Jiu-Jitsu Arena on January 15. If you received the COVID-19 vaccination now, you are clear to watch EFC &amp; UAE tournament!"</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-southampton-boss-ralph-hasenhuttl-cries-tears-of-joy-as-saints-defeat-liverpool-354575" hreflang="en">Watch: Southampton boss Ralph Hasenhuttl cries tears of joy as Saints defeat Liverpool</a></strong></p>

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<p>“That’s the beauty of this,” said Fouad Darwish, general manager of Palms Sports. “It’s going to be a very special event. As always, UAE Warriors and Palms Sports like to be pioneers in everything that we do.</p>

<p>“It’s going to be the very first association with another entity, where we’re working with the Eagle Fighting Championship, while this is a very important event because it’s in commemoration of Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov. We’re hosting it in his honour," said Fouad Darwish, General Manager of Palms Sports</p>

<p>UAE Warriors 15 will have 15 bouts with Nurmagomedov providing nine fighters from his team. Nurmagomedov has been an ardent supporter of UAE Warriors and attended various events in past as a guest. “First and foremost, Khabib is a champion of many here,” Darwish said. “He has captured the hearts of many fighters - amateurs and professionals - and many supporters. And Khabib considers Abu Dhabi his second home.</p>

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<p>“Khabib’s father was a dear friend to many here as well. He did so much for his kids, his country and many others, and for the sport of MMA so we are privileged to venerate such a world-class, kind man. My chairman, Abdulmunam Al Hashemi, goes way back with the family, and our leaders here all recognise Khabib’s accomplishments.</p>

<p>“So with our relationship, with the unwavering support we have seen from Khabib, it’s the least we can do to reciprocate some of the good he has given us. His father was a father to us all.”</p>


The UAE Warriors 15 event, organised in partnership with Khabib Nurmagomedov, is set to take place on January 15 at the Jiu-jitsu Arena in Abu Dhabi. The much-awaited event, featuring Nurmagomedov, will be open to fans who have already taken the COVID-19 vaccine.

The UAE Warriors 15 event, organised in partnership with Khabib Nurmagomedov, is set to take place on January 15 at the Jiu-jitsu Arena in Abu Dhabi. The much-awaited event, featuring Nurmagomedov, will be open to fans who have already taken the COVID-19 vaccine. A joint venture with Nurmagomedov's Eagle Fighting Championship, the UAE Warriors 15 will commemorate Khabib's father and longtime coach, Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov, who died in July 2019. Reportedly, UAE Warriors 15 is set to be the first major sporting event in Abu Dhabi to welcome spectators since the COVID-19 pandemic began. Palms Sports, working on UAE Warriors, said that they are working closely with the National Crisis and Emergency Management Authority (NCEMA) to ensure the safe staging of the event. "The joint EAGLE FC and UAE WARRIORS tournament, which will take place in Dubai on January 15, will be open to the public. The fighting promotion administration has reached a mutual agreement on spectators' admission upon proof of a special document indicating the vaccination against COVID-19, received in Dubai. We remind you that the tournament will be held at the Jiu-Jitsu Arena on January 15. If you received the COVID-19 vaccination now, you are clear to watch EFC & UAE tournament!" ALSO READ: Watch: Southampton boss Ralph Hasenhuttl cries tears of joy as Saints defeat Liverpool View this post on Instagram A post shared by EAGLE FIGHTING CHAMPIONSHIP (@eaglefcmma) × “That’s the beauty of this,” said Fouad Darwish, general manager of Palms Sports. “It’s going to be a very special event. As always, UAE Warriors and Palms Sports like to be pioneers in everything that we do. “It’s going to be the very first association with another entity, where we’re working with the Eagle Fighting Championship, while this is a very important event because it’s in commemoration of Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov. We’re hosting it in his honour," said Fouad Darwish, General Manager of Palms Sports UAE Warriors 15 will have 15 bouts with Nurmagomedov providing nine fighters from his team. Nurmagomedov has been an ardent supporter of UAE Warriors and attended various events in past as a guest. “First and foremost, Khabib is a champion of many here,” Darwish said. “He has captured the hearts of many fighters - amateurs and professionals - and many supporters. And Khabib considers Abu Dhabi his second home. ALSO READ: Premier League to continue during new English lockdown View this post on Instagram A post shared by EAGLE FIGHTING CHAMPIONSHIP (@eaglefcmma) × “Khabib’s father was a dear friend to many here as well. He did so much for his kids, his country and many others, and for the sport of MMA so we are privileged to venerate such a world-class, kind man. My chairman, Abdulmunam Al Hashemi, goes way back with the family, and our leaders here all recognise Khabib’s accomplishments. “So with our relationship, with the unwavering support we have seen from Khabib, it’s the least we can do to reciprocate some of the good he has given us. His father was a father to us all.”

Get COVID-19 vaccine and watch Khabib Nurmagomedov-UAE Warriors 15 live event!

<p>The Indian cricket team will be looking to end a 42-year wait when they take the field at the Sydney Cricket Ground on January 7 for the third Test against Australia. India's last win in Sydney came back in 1978 when a Bishan Bedi-led side defeated Australia by an innings and two runs. However, since then India have had a long wait to taste victory in Sydney.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Out of 12 matches played in Sydney, India have won only one while losing six. India came agonisingly close of winning the Sydney Test in the 2018/19 tour but was left disappointed by rain gods as they forced a draw.</p>

<p>England, Pakistan and West Indies are the only sides to register more than a win in Sydney against Australia with Pakistan being the only Asian team to win 2 Test matches in Sydney.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australia-india-resume-arm-wrestle-as-covid-dominates-test-build-up-354543" hreflang="en">Australia, India resume 'arm-wrestle' as Covid dominates Test build-up</a></strong></p>

<h2>'So close in 2019'</h2>

<p>In 2019, India were on the verge of winning the Sydney Test after Cheteshwar Pujara and Rishabh Pant centuries helped the visitors post a mammoth 622/7 (decl.) before bundling out the hosts for 300. After enforcing the follow on, the last two days of the Sydney Test was rain-marred which also saved the Australians from a humiliation.</p>

<h2>'Win in 1978 unforgettable'</h2>

<p>Whereas talking about the famous win in Sydney back in 1978, Bhagwath Chandrashekhar and Bishan Bedi picked up four and three wickets respectively in the first innings to dismiss Australia for 131 in the first innings.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australians-are-bad-losers-former-india-spinner-tears-apart-hosts-over-bio-bubble-controversy-354405" hreflang="en">'Australians are bad losers' - Former India spinner tears apart hosts over bio-bubble controversy</a></strong></p>

<p>India posted 396/8 (decl.) after Gundappa Vishwanath played a masterful knock of 79 along with Karsan Ghavri's 64 to bolster the momentum.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Australia, despite half-centuries from Gary Cosier and Peter Tooney couldn't climb the mountainous target and surrendered in front of the Indian bowling attack with Erapalli Prasanna picking four wickets while Ghavri, Bedi and Chandrashekhar scalped two wickets each.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But with the focus completely shifting to the Sydney Test, after a controversy-filled week, India would be hoping to get their long-due win in Sydney.&nbsp;</p>

<p>India vs Australia, Sydney Test is set to commence from January 7.<br />
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The Indian cricket team will be looking to end a 42-year wait when they take the field at the Sydney Cricket Ground on January 7 for the third Test against Australia.

The Indian cricket team will be looking to end a 42-year wait when they take the field at the Sydney Cricket Ground on January 7 for the third Test against Australia. India's last win in Sydney came back in 1978 when a Bishan Bedi-led side defeated Australia by an innings and two runs. However, since then India have had a long wait to taste victory in Sydney. Out of 12 matches played in Sydney, India have won only one while losing six. India came agonisingly close of winning the Sydney Test in the 2018/19 tour but was left disappointed by rain gods as they forced a draw. England, Pakistan and West Indies are the only sides to register more than a win in Sydney against Australia with Pakistan being the only Asian team to win 2 Test matches in Sydney. ALSO READ: Australia, India resume 'arm-wrestle' as Covid dominates Test build-up 'So close in 2019' In 2019, India were on the verge of winning the Sydney Test after Cheteshwar Pujara and Rishabh Pant centuries helped the visitors post a mammoth 622/7 (decl.) before bundling out the hosts for 300. After enforcing the follow on, the last two days of the Sydney Test was rain-marred which also saved the Australians from a humiliation. 'Win in 1978 unforgettable' Whereas talking about the famous win in Sydney back in 1978, Bhagwath Chandrashekhar and Bishan Bedi picked up four and three wickets respectively in the first innings to dismiss Australia for 131 in the first innings. ALSO READ: 'Australians are bad losers' - Former India spinner tears apart hosts over bio-bubble controversy India posted 396/8 (decl.) after Gundappa Vishwanath played a masterful knock of 79 along with Karsan Ghavri's 64 to bolster the momentum. Australia, despite half-centuries from Gary Cosier and Peter Tooney couldn't climb the mountainous target and surrendered in front of the Indian bowling attack with Erapalli Prasanna picking four wickets while Ghavri, Bedi and Chandrashekhar scalped two wickets each. But with the focus completely shifting to the Sydney Test, after a controversy-filled week, India would be hoping to get their long-due win in Sydney. India vs Australia, Sydney Test is set to commence from January 7.

Focus on Ajinkya Rahane & Co. as India look to end 42-year wait in Sydney

<p>Southampton manager Ralph Hasenhuttl on Monday didn't hold his emotions back and shed tears of joy as he collapsed to his knees after the final whistle as an early Danny Ings strike helped the Saints complete a 1-0 win over defending champions Liverpool in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/premier-league">Premier League</a>.</p>

<p>The Austrian coach broke down in joy and his emotional celebrations might have confused some fans to think Southampton just managed to win the Premier League. That is how much the win against Liverpool mattered to Hasenhuttl.</p>

<p>With wins against Liverpool becoming rare for Southampton, it was a memorable evening for Hasenhuttl, who took over the south-coast club in 2018. Before this win, Southampton's last victory against the Merseyside club came almost five years back.</p>

<p>“There were tears in my eyes – because of the wind!”, Hasenhuttl jokingly told BBC Sport.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rusty-liverpool-stumble-again-in-southampton-defeat-354547" hreflang="en">'Rusty' Liverpool stumble again in Southampton defeat</a></strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="fr">Our manager ❤️ <a href="https://t.co/zqRa9tesvh">pic.twitter.com/zqRa9tesvh</a></p>
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<p>“When you see our guys fighting with everything they have, it makes me really proud. You need to have the perfect game against Liverpool and I think we did have that.”</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">BEAMING 😍<br />
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A proud night perfectly summed up by the manager:</p>
— Southampton FC (@SouthamptonFC) <a href="https://twitter.com/SouthamptonFC/status/1346236068572631040?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 4, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>After taking an early lead in the first half, Hasenhuttl's club defended deep for long periods but the Austrian admitted that it was deep into stoppage time when he felt Southampton could get a big result.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/biased-and-discriminatory-act-uruguayan-players-association-rips-into-english-fa-over-edinson-cavanis-ban-354450" hreflang="en">'Biased and discriminatory act...': Uruguayan players' association rips into English FA over Edinson Cavani's ban</a></strong></p>

<p>“It felt like we were under massive pressure and the defending around the box was the key today – then still try and play football. We did it in a good way,” he said.</p>

<p>Whereas Liverpool counterpart Jurgen Klopp was left frustrated by the 1-0 defeat to Southampton after the troika of Roberto Firmino, Mohamed Salah and Sadio Mane failed to rattle the net despite dominating possession.</p>

<p>“What was disappointing? How long have we got?” he told the BBC. “The start, obviously, not only the goal but the start in general. Congratulations to Southampton, they deserved it.”</p>

<p>“At the beginning, how we played, where we lost the balls – it’s not rocket science. We should have done much better. We played into their hands with the start,” he said.</p>

<p>“These are outstanding players, but they were not ready from the start.”</p>

<p>Liverpool are now three matches without a win.</p>


Southampton manager Ralph Hasenhuttl on Monday didn't hold his emotions back and shed tears of joy as he collapsed to his knees after the final whistle as an early Danny Ings strike helped the Saints complete a 1-0 win over defending champions Liverpool in Premier League.

Southampton manager Ralph Hasenhuttl on Monday didn't hold his emotions back and shed tears of joy as he collapsed to his knees after the final whistle as an early Danny Ings strike helped the Saints complete a 1-0 win over defending champions Liverpool in Premier League. The Austrian coach broke down in joy and his emotional celebrations might have confused some fans to think Southampton just managed to win the Premier League. That is how much the win against Liverpool mattered to Hasenhuttl. With wins against Liverpool becoming rare for Southampton, it was a memorable evening for Hasenhuttl, who took over the south-coast club in 2018. Before this win, Southampton's last victory against the Merseyside club came almost five years back. “There were tears in my eyes – because of the wind!”, Hasenhuttl jokingly told BBC Sport. ALSO READ: 'Rusty' Liverpool stumble again in Southampton defeat Our manager ❤️ pic.twitter.com/zqRa9tesvh — Southampton FC (@SouthamptonFC) January 4, 2021 × “When you see our guys fighting with everything they have, it makes me really proud. You need to have the perfect game against Liverpool and I think we did have that.” BEAMING 😍 A proud night perfectly summed up by the manager: — Southampton FC (@SouthamptonFC) January 4, 2021 × After taking an early lead in the first half, Hasenhuttl's club defended deep for long periods but the Austrian admitted that it was deep into stoppage time when he felt Southampton could get a big result. ALSO READ: 'Biased and discriminatory act...': Uruguayan players' association rips into English FA over Edinson Cavani's ban “It felt like we were under massive pressure and the defending around the box was the key today – then still try and play football. We did it in a good way,” he said. Whereas Liverpool counterpart Jurgen Klopp was left frustrated by the 1-0 defeat to Southampton after the troika of Roberto Firmino, Mohamed Salah and Sadio Mane failed to rattle the net despite dominating possession. “What was disappointing? How long have we got?” he told the BBC. “The start, obviously, not only the goal but the start in general. Congratulations to Southampton, they deserved it.” “At the beginning, how we played, where we lost the balls – it’s not rocket science. We should have done much better. We played into their hands with the start,” he said. “These are outstanding players, but they were not ready from the start.” Liverpool are now three matches without a win.

Watch: Southampton boss Ralph Hasenhuttl cries tears of joy as Saints defeat Liverpool

<p>Steve Smith dominated Test cricket in the last decade but for the Aussie batsman, the last few Test matches have been nothing short of nightmare. Smith, in the ongoing Test series against India, has registered scores of 1, 1*, 0 and 8 as he witnesses a lean patch in his formidable batting career.&nbsp;</p>

<p>With Australia hoping that Smith returns back to his best in the last two Tests against Australia, head coach Justin Langer said that that it is about time Smith returns back to form while adding he never coaches the star Aussie batsman.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Langer said that Smith coaches himself while adding that he is going to work it and get out of the lean patch he is facing in his illustrious Test career.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australia-india-resume-arm-wrestle-as-covid-dominates-test-build-up-354543" hreflang="en">Australia, India resume 'arm-wrestle' as Covid dominates Test build-up</a></strong></p>

<p>Smith, who has had a superb record against India, suffered a dip in form after consecutive centuries in the three-match ODI series against India. With Australia looking to bounce back in the series after losing out in the Boxing Day Test, the hosts would be looking towards their talisman - Smith - for big runs.</p>

<p>Langer, in the virtual press conference, said "Imagine how good we will be when he does start batting - that's how I look at it. He hasn't had the best of series so far. He will be the first to admit that. My gosh, what I know about great players, the longer they miss out, the sooner they are coming good again. That puts a big smile on my face. How do you coach Steve? I don't coach Steve Smith. Steve Smith coaches himself and I am sure he is going to work it out."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australians-are-bad-losers-former-india-spinner-tears-apart-hosts-over-bio-bubble-controversy-354405" hreflang="en">'Australians are bad losers' - Former India spinner tears apart hosts over bio-bubble controversy</a></strong></p>

<p>Langer added, "Steve is always hitting a lot of balls. He did a lot leading up to it [MCG Test] but, again, there is nothing, even for the greatest of players, there is nothing that replaces time in the middle. And we know what a great problem solver he is, we know what a great player he is."</p>

<p>Australia, after winning the Adelaide Test in sensational fashion, was brought back to the earth by a resilient Indian team as they won the Boxing Day Test by eight wickets to equalise the series 1-1. But now both India and Australia would be eyeing an unassailable 2-1 lead in Sydney.</p>


Steve Smith dominated Test cricket in the last decade but for the Aussie batsman, the last few Test matches have been nothing short of nightmare. Smith, in the ongoing Test series against India, has registered scores of 1, 1*, 0 and 8 as he witnesses a lean patch in his formidable batting career.

Steve Smith dominated Test cricket in the last decade but for the Aussie batsman, the last few Test matches have been nothing short of nightmare. Smith, in the ongoing Test series against India, has registered scores of 1, 1*, 0 and 8 as he witnesses a lean patch in his formidable batting career. With Australia hoping that Smith returns back to his best in the last two Tests against Australia, head coach Justin Langer said that that it is about time Smith returns back to form while adding he never coaches the star Aussie batsman. Langer said that Smith coaches himself while adding that he is going to work it and get out of the lean patch he is facing in his illustrious Test career. ALSO READ: Australia, India resume 'arm-wrestle' as Covid dominates Test build-up Smith, who has had a superb record against India, suffered a dip in form after consecutive centuries in the three-match ODI series against India. With Australia looking to bounce back in the series after losing out in the Boxing Day Test, the hosts would be looking towards their talisman - Smith - for big runs. Langer, in the virtual press conference, said "Imagine how good we will be when he does start batting - that's how I look at it. He hasn't had the best of series so far. He will be the first to admit that. My gosh, what I know about great players, the longer they miss out, the sooner they are coming good again. That puts a big smile on my face. How do you coach Steve? I don't coach Steve Smith. Steve Smith coaches himself and I am sure he is going to work it out." ALSO READ: 'Australians are bad losers' - Former India spinner tears apart hosts over bio-bubble controversy Langer added, "Steve is always hitting a lot of balls. He did a lot leading up to it [MCG Test] but, again, there is nothing, even for the greatest of players, there is nothing that replaces time in the middle. And we know what a great problem solver he is, we know what a great player he is." Australia, after winning the Adelaide Test in sensational fashion, was brought back to the earth by a resilient Indian team as they won the Boxing Day Test by eight wickets to equalise the series 1-1. But now both India and Australia would be eyeing an unassailable 2-1 lead in Sydney.

Steve Smith coaches himself: Justin Langer confident of star batsman returning to form

<p>India's injury worries continue to grow as star batsman KL Rahul was ruled out of the remainder of the Test series against Australia with a sprained left wrist ahead of the third Test, scheduled to start on January 7 in Sydney.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Rahul hurt himself while batting in the nets at the Melbourne Cricket Ground during a practice session on Saturday after the visitors won the Boxing Day Test by eight wickets.</p>

<p>The Board of Control for Cricket in India said Rahul will "not be available for the remaining two Tests of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy as he will need about three weeks time to recover completely and regain full strength".</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australia-india-resume-arm-wrestle-as-covid-dominates-test-build-up-354543" hreflang="en">Australia, India resume 'arm-wrestle' as Covid dominates Test build-up</a></strong></p>

<h2>BCCI statement on KL Rahul:</h2>

<p>"KL Rahul sprained his left wrist while batting in the nets at the MCG during Team India’s practice session on Saturday. The wicketkeeper-batsman will not be available for the remaining two Tests of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy as he will need about three weeks time to recover completely and regain full strength.</p>

<p>"He will now return to India and head to the National Cricket Academy in Bengaluru for further rehabilitation of his injury."</p>

<p>The 28-year-old, who has featured for India in 26 Tests, was left out of the first two Tests and will now be heading to the National Cricket Academy in Bengaluru to recover and be fit in time for the England series.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pakistan-in-trouble-after-williamsons-238-gives-new-zealand-huge-lead-354539" hreflang="en">Pakistan in trouble after Williamson's 238 gives New Zealand huge lead</a></strong></p>

<p>It is a major setback for India who started the four-Test series without leading pacer Ishant Sharma. Since then, India have lost the likes of Virat Kohli (paternity leave), Umesh Yadav (calf injury) and Mohammed Shami (fractured arm).&nbsp;</p>

<p>While Rohit Sharma is all set to feature in the Sydney Test, Rahul was also in contention to be in the playing XI.&nbsp;</p>

<p>With the series locked at 1-1, both India and Australia will be desperate to take a lead in Sydney in a bid to have an upper hand in the fourth and final Test at The Gabba in Brisbane.</p>


India's injury worries continue to grow as star batsman KL Rahul was ruled out of the remainder of the Test series against Australia with a sprained left wrist ahead of the third Test, scheduled to start on January 7 in Sydney.

India's injury worries continue to grow as star batsman KL Rahul was ruled out of the remainder of the Test series against Australia with a sprained left wrist ahead of the third Test, scheduled to start on January 7 in Sydney. Rahul hurt himself while batting in the nets at the Melbourne Cricket Ground during a practice session on Saturday after the visitors won the Boxing Day Test by eight wickets. The Board of Control for Cricket in India said Rahul will "not be available for the remaining two Tests of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy as he will need about three weeks time to recover completely and regain full strength". ALSO READ: Australia, India resume 'arm-wrestle' as Covid dominates Test build-up BCCI statement on KL Rahul: "KL Rahul sprained his left wrist while batting in the nets at the MCG during Team India’s practice session on Saturday. The wicketkeeper-batsman will not be available for the remaining two Tests of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy as he will need about three weeks time to recover completely and regain full strength. "He will now return to India and head to the National Cricket Academy in Bengaluru for further rehabilitation of his injury." The 28-year-old, who has featured for India in 26 Tests, was left out of the first two Tests and will now be heading to the National Cricket Academy in Bengaluru to recover and be fit in time for the England series. ALSO READ: Pakistan in trouble after Williamson's 238 gives New Zealand huge lead It is a major setback for India who started the four-Test series without leading pacer Ishant Sharma. Since then, India have lost the likes of Virat Kohli (paternity leave), Umesh Yadav (calf injury) and Mohammed Shami (fractured arm). While Rohit Sharma is all set to feature in the Sydney Test, Rahul was also in contention to be in the playing XI. With the series locked at 1-1, both India and Australia will be desperate to take a lead in Sydney in a bid to have an upper hand in the fourth and final Test at The Gabba in Brisbane.

Another injury for Team India! KL Rahul ruled out of Test series vs Australia

<p>Juventus forward Cristiano Ronaldo on Sunday surpassed Brazilian legend Pele's record to sit second in the all-time goalscoring charts as the Portuguese maestro netted a brace to help Juventus defeat Udinese 4-1 in Serie A.</p>

<p>Ronaldo opened the scoring for Juventus in the first-half as he unleashed a superb strike to leave Udinese goalkeeper Juan Musso helpless. Ronaldo then completed his brace in the second half as Juventus returned back to winning ways in the Allianz Stadium.</p>

<p>The five-time Ballon d'Or winner, with the brace, completed his 758 goals in his splendid career - moving one ahead of Pele's all-time list.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/barca-triumph-as-messi-makes-500th-liga-appearance-354333" hreflang="en">Barca triumph as Messi makes 500th Liga appearance</a></strong></p>

<p>Now, only Slavia Prague legend Josef Bican is ahead of Ronaldo with as many as 805 goals in 530 matches, scored between 1931 and 1955.</p>

<p>Fans hailed Ronaldo as one of the greatest players of all-time. Ronaldo has accumulated a whopping 450 goals during his nine-year stay at Real Madrid while completing his 700th career goal in 2019.</p>

<p>The former Manchester United forward's super-agent, Jorge Mendes, has always been vocal about Ronaldo's on-field achievement and had predicted that the Portuguese would go onto shatter Pele's record to cement his name even more in football history.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ronaldo-double-lifts-juve-as-10-man-milan-stay-top-ahead-of-inter-354330" hreflang="en">Ronaldo double lifts Juve as 10-man Milan stay top ahead of Inter</a></strong></p>

<p>The 54-year-old Portuguese football agent told Sky Sports: "His numbers don't lie and light up the overwhelming way Cristiano Ronaldo shatters records, which elevate him to the category of best player in the history of football, with a big difference compared to the second [best] for all he achieved with the different clubs he represented, whether in England, Spain or now in Italy and also with the Portuguese national team."</p>

<p>Mendes added: "Cristiano has reached the remarkable milestone of 700 goals, but I have no doubt that he'll surpass Pele as the best scorer in football history, and he'll do it with Juventus."</p>


Juventus forward Cristiano Ronaldo on Sunday surpassed Brazilian legend Pele's record to sit second in the all-time goalscoring charts as the Portuguese maestro netted a brace to help Juventus defeat Udinese 4-1 in Serie A.

Juventus forward Cristiano Ronaldo on Sunday surpassed Brazilian legend Pele's record to sit second in the all-time goalscoring charts as the Portuguese maestro netted a brace to help Juventus defeat Udinese 4-1 in Serie A. Ronaldo opened the scoring for Juventus in the first-half as he unleashed a superb strike to leave Udinese goalkeeper Juan Musso helpless. Ronaldo then completed his brace in the second half as Juventus returned back to winning ways in the Allianz Stadium. The five-time Ballon d'Or winner, with the brace, completed his 758 goals in his splendid career - moving one ahead of Pele's all-time list. ALSO READ: Barca triumph as Messi makes 500th Liga appearance Now, only Slavia Prague legend Josef Bican is ahead of Ronaldo with as many as 805 goals in 530 matches, scored between 1931 and 1955. Fans hailed Ronaldo as one of the greatest players of all-time. Ronaldo has accumulated a whopping 450 goals during his nine-year stay at Real Madrid while completing his 700th career goal in 2019. The former Manchester United forward's super-agent, Jorge Mendes, has always been vocal about Ronaldo's on-field achievement and had predicted that the Portuguese would go onto shatter Pele's record to cement his name even more in football history. ALSO READ: Ronaldo double lifts Juve as 10-man Milan stay top ahead of Inter The 54-year-old Portuguese football agent told Sky Sports: "His numbers don't lie and light up the overwhelming way Cristiano Ronaldo shatters records, which elevate him to the category of best player in the history of football, with a big difference compared to the second [best] for all he achieved with the different clubs he represented, whether in England, Spain or now in Italy and also with the Portuguese national team." Mendes added: "Cristiano has reached the remarkable milestone of 700 goals, but I have no doubt that he'll surpass Pele as the best scorer in football history, and he'll do it with Juventus."

Cristiano Ronaldo surpasses Pele's record, climbs second in all-time goal-scoring charts

<p>Barcelona won 1-0 at bottom side Huesca on Sunday as Lionel Messi became the first foreigner to make 500 appearances in Spain's La Liga, while a late Luis Suarez goal secured leaders Atletico Madrid victory against Alaves.</p>

<p>Messi returned for Barca after missing the final game of 2020 with an ankle knock and swung in a cross for Frenkie de Jong to divert home for the only goal on 27 minutes.</p>

<p>Although Ronald Koeman's side began a potentially season-defining run of four consecutive away matches with a comfortable win, they remain a distant 10 points behind Atletico in fifth having played a game more.</p>

<p>"In general, aside from the last 20 minutes we played well," said Koeman.</p>

<p>"We created a lot of danger, which isn't easy against a team that shuts up at the back. We got a great goal and we had two or three more chances to pull away." &nbsp;</p>

<p>Barca dominated possession and created a number of chances but Huesca goalkeeper Alvaro Fernandez produced several fine saves to keep the hosts in touch.</p>

<p>After De Jong's opener Messi was denied a second just before half-time when Fernandez superbly clawed away his free-kick heading towards the top corner.</p>

<p>The Argentine was again thwarted by the legs of Fernandez in the second half after combining well with Pedri, moments after Marc-Andre ter Stegen reacted sharply to keep out Rafa Mir's inventive back-heel.</p>

<p>That was a rare threat from Huesca who have now won just once in 17 tries this season but had taken points off most visitors to their Estadio El Alcoraz so far, including Atletico in September.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We came out strong and very concentrated. It's the main base we need. If we have that, we improve a lot with the ball and if we get better in front of goal then we can have a very good start to the year," added Koeman.</p>

<h2>- Suarez the saviour -</h2>

<p>Earlier in the day, Suarez struck a 90th-minute winner for Atletico as they defeated 10-man Alaves 2-1 to move back above Real Madrid at the top.</p>

<p>Marcos Llorente gave Atletico the lead at Mendizorroza shortly before half-time with a deflected strike from just outside the area.</p>

<p>Diego Simeone's side appeared to have the game under control when Alaves defender Victor Laguardia was sent off on the hour following a VAR review for chopping down Thomas Lemar as the Frenchman ran towards goal.</p>

<p>Florian Lejeune headed against the post for Alaves before a spectacular own goal on 84 minutes from Felipe threatened to cost Atletico two vital points, the Brazilian centre-back&nbsp;drilling beyond Jan Oblak as he attempted to hack clear an attempted cross.</p>

<p>However, Suarez secured Atletico's fourth consecutive win in the final minute as the Uruguayan tapped in from close range after the ball was slotted across goal by substitute Joao Felix.</p>

<p>"The best thing is how the team finished, not getting nervous, just playing. And the goal was a great goal," said Simeone.</p>

<p>Atletico climbed two points clear of Real Madrid and have two games in hand on the defending champions.</p>

<p>"The takeaway from this is to continue on the same path," added Simeone.</p>

<p>Athletic Bilbao sacked coach Gaizka Garitano following a 1-0 home win over Elche, with reports in Spain linking former Barcelona boss Ernesto Valverde to the vacant job.</p>

<p>Real Sociedad lost more ground on the top two after they could only manage a 1-1 draw at home to struggling Osasuna, while teenager Bryan Gil scored both goals in Eibar's 2-0 defeat of Granada.</p>


Barcelona won 1-0 at bottom side Huesca on Sunday as Lionel Messi became the first foreigner to make 500 appearances in Spain's La Liga, while a late Luis Suarez goal secured leaders Atletico Madrid victory against Alaves.

Barcelona won 1-0 at bottom side Huesca on Sunday as Lionel Messi became the first foreigner to make 500 appearances in Spain's La Liga, while a late Luis Suarez goal secured leaders Atletico Madrid victory against Alaves. Messi returned for Barca after missing the final game of 2020 with an ankle knock and swung in a cross for Frenkie de Jong to divert home for the only goal on 27 minutes. Although Ronald Koeman's side began a potentially season-defining run of four consecutive away matches with a comfortable win, they remain a distant 10 points behind Atletico in fifth having played a game more. "In general, aside from the last 20 minutes we played well," said Koeman. "We created a lot of danger, which isn't easy against a team that shuts up at the back. We got a great goal and we had two or three more chances to pull away." Barca dominated possession and created a number of chances but Huesca goalkeeper Alvaro Fernandez produced several fine saves to keep the hosts in touch. After De Jong's opener Messi was denied a second just before half-time when Fernandez superbly clawed away his free-kick heading towards the top corner. The Argentine was again thwarted by the legs of Fernandez in the second half after combining well with Pedri, moments after Marc-Andre ter Stegen reacted sharply to keep out Rafa Mir's inventive back-heel. That was a rare threat from Huesca who have now won just once in 17 tries this season but had taken points off most visitors to their Estadio El Alcoraz so far, including Atletico in September. "We came out strong and very concentrated. It's the main base we need. If we have that, we improve a lot with the ball and if we get better in front of goal then we can have a very good start to the year," added Koeman. - Suarez the saviour - Earlier in the day, Suarez struck a 90th-minute winner for Atletico as they defeated 10-man Alaves 2-1 to move back above Real Madrid at the top. Marcos Llorente gave Atletico the lead at Mendizorroza shortly before half-time with a deflected strike from just outside the area. Diego Simeone's side appeared to have the game under control when Alaves defender Victor Laguardia was sent off on the hour following a VAR review for chopping down Thomas Lemar as the Frenchman ran towards goal. Florian Lejeune headed against the post for Alaves before a spectacular own goal on 84 minutes from Felipe threatened to cost Atletico two vital points, the Brazilian centre-back drilling beyond Jan Oblak as he attempted to hack clear an attempted cross. However, Suarez secured Atletico's fourth consecutive win in the final minute as the Uruguayan tapped in from close range after the ball was slotted across goal by substitute Joao Felix. "The best thing is how the team finished, not getting nervous, just playing. And the goal was a great goal," said Simeone. Atletico climbed two points clear of Real Madrid and have two games in hand on the defending champions. "The takeaway from this is to continue on the same path," added Simeone. Athletic Bilbao sacked coach Gaizka Garitano following a 1-0 home win over Elche, with reports in Spain linking former Barcelona boss Ernesto Valverde to the vacant job. Real Sociedad lost more ground on the top two after they could only manage a 1-1 draw at home to struggling Osasuna, while teenager Bryan Gil scored both goals in Eibar's 2-0 defeat of Granada.

Barca triumph as Messi makes 500th Liga appearance

<p>Cristiano Ronaldo scored twice as champions Juventus bounced back from their first Serie A defeat of the season by beating Udinese 4-1 on Sunday to move up to fifth place.</p>

<p>The Milan clubs are top of the Italian league with Juventus 10 points adrift of the summit having played a game less.</p>

<p>Leaders AC Milan stayed one point ahead of Inter with a 2-0 win over midtable Benevento despite playing an hour a man down.</p>

<p>City rivals Inter crushed lowly Crotone 6-2 with Lautaro Martinez bagging his first hat-trick for the club.</p>

<p>But Milan restored their advantage thanks to a Franck Kessie penalty on 15 minutes and Rafael Leao's terrific curling strike from a tight angle shortly after half-time.</p>

<p>Sandro Tonali's sending off after 33 minutes for a high tackle on Artur Ionita did not hold back Stefano Pioli's side.</p>

<p>Gianluigi Donnarumma was solid in the Milan goal while Gianluca Caprari dragged a penalty wide on the hour.</p>

<p>"We don't let ourselves be put under pressure by the results of the opponents," said Pioli whose side are unbeaten in 27 league games going back to March.</p>

<p>"We're ambitious, we're not hiding it and we aim to win the next match as well against Juventus (on Wednesday)."</p>

<p>Ronaldo once again proved decisive for Juventus scoring a goal in each half to bring his league-leading tally to 14 this campaign and teeing up Federico Chiesa after the break.</p>

<p>Paulo Dybala added the fourth deep into injury time as Andrea Pirlo's side moved on from their shock 3-0 loss to Fiorentina last time out.</p>

<p>"It wasn't the best Juventus because we were coming off a bad defeat, we were a bit fearful at the beginning," said Pirlo.</p>

<p>"Slowly we grew and in the second half we did better. It's a delicate moment but we have to have confidence in what we can achieve and the determination to get there."</p>

<p>At the San Siro, Martinez and Romelu Lukaku combined to devastating effect for Inter who have now won eight league games in a row.</p>

<p>The strike duo were involved in five goals although midfielder Arturo Vidal was hauled off at half-time after conceding a penalty in a woeful display.</p>

<p>Antonio Conte's side had been pegged back 2-2 at the break with Niccolo Zanellato scoring first with a 12th-minute header for the rock bottom Calabrians with the worst attack in the league.</p>

<p>But Martinez picked up a Lukaku cross to pull the hosts level eight minutes later.</p>

<p>Martinez had a role in Inter's second just after half an hour when Crotone defender Luca Marrone turned the ball into his own net under pressure from the Argentina forward.</p>

<p>Vladimir Golemic put the sides level six minutes later after Vidal fouled Arkadiusz Reca, with a furious Conte replacing the Chilean with Stefano Sensi at the break.</p>

<h2>- Roma stay third -</h2>

<p>Martinez restored the lead for Inter before the hour connecting with a Marcelo Brozovic through ball following a Lukaku back-heel, and headed in his third with 12 minutes to go off a rebound.</p>

<p>Lukaku blasted in his 50th goal for Inter after 64 minutes but limped off after taking a knock to his right thigh 10 minutes later, before Achraf Hakimi rounded out the win with three minutes to go.</p>

<p>"There is great desire and it shows," said Conte as Inter target their first Serie A title since 2010 with their European campaign over this season.</p>

<p>Roma held third place, six points behind Inter, with captain Edin Dzeko scoring with a quarter of an hour to go in a 1-0 win in the rain over former Roma coach Claudio Ranieri's Sampdoria.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The capital side are ahead of Napoli who swept past Cagliari 4-1 with Piotr Zielinski scoring twice and Hirving Lozano and Lorenzo Insigne also on target late, the latter from the penalty spot.</p>

<p>In a clash of European rivals, Atalanta whipped Sassuolo 5-1 with Colombian Duvan Zapata scoring twice.</p>

<p>The Bergamo side were again playing without captain Papu Gomez who has fallen out with coach Gian Piero Gasperini.</p>

<p>Zapata and Matteo Pessina scored in the first half with the Colombian adding a second just after the break with Robin Gosens and Luis Muriel compounding the rout before Vlad Chiriches pulled a goal back.</p>

<p>Sassuolo are sixth one point ahead of Atalanta who have played a game less.</p>


Cristiano Ronaldo scored twice as champions Juventus bounced back from their first Serie A defeat of the season by beating Udinese 4-1 on Sunday to move up to fifth place.

Cristiano Ronaldo scored twice as champions Juventus bounced back from their first Serie A defeat of the season by beating Udinese 4-1 on Sunday to move up to fifth place. The Milan clubs are top of the Italian league with Juventus 10 points adrift of the summit having played a game less. Leaders AC Milan stayed one point ahead of Inter with a 2-0 win over midtable Benevento despite playing an hour a man down. City rivals Inter crushed lowly Crotone 6-2 with Lautaro Martinez bagging his first hat-trick for the club. But Milan restored their advantage thanks to a Franck Kessie penalty on 15 minutes and Rafael Leao's terrific curling strike from a tight angle shortly after half-time. Sandro Tonali's sending off after 33 minutes for a high tackle on Artur Ionita did not hold back Stefano Pioli's side. Gianluigi Donnarumma was solid in the Milan goal while Gianluca Caprari dragged a penalty wide on the hour. "We don't let ourselves be put under pressure by the results of the opponents," said Pioli whose side are unbeaten in 27 league games going back to March. "We're ambitious, we're not hiding it and we aim to win the next match as well against Juventus (on Wednesday)." Ronaldo once again proved decisive for Juventus scoring a goal in each half to bring his league-leading tally to 14 this campaign and teeing up Federico Chiesa after the break. Paulo Dybala added the fourth deep into injury time as Andrea Pirlo's side moved on from their shock 3-0 loss to Fiorentina last time out. "It wasn't the best Juventus because we were coming off a bad defeat, we were a bit fearful at the beginning," said Pirlo. "Slowly we grew and in the second half we did better. It's a delicate moment but we have to have confidence in what we can achieve and the determination to get there." At the San Siro, Martinez and Romelu Lukaku combined to devastating effect for Inter who have now won eight league games in a row. The strike duo were involved in five goals although midfielder Arturo Vidal was hauled off at half-time after conceding a penalty in a woeful display. Antonio Conte's side had been pegged back 2-2 at the break with Niccolo Zanellato scoring first with a 12th-minute header for the rock bottom Calabrians with the worst attack in the league. But Martinez picked up a Lukaku cross to pull the hosts level eight minutes later. Martinez had a role in Inter's second just after half an hour when Crotone defender Luca Marrone turned the ball into his own net under pressure from the Argentina forward. Vladimir Golemic put the sides level six minutes later after Vidal fouled Arkadiusz Reca, with a furious Conte replacing the Chilean with Stefano Sensi at the break. - Roma stay third - Martinez restored the lead for Inter before the hour connecting with a Marcelo Brozovic through ball following a Lukaku back-heel, and headed in his third with 12 minutes to go off a rebound. Lukaku blasted in his 50th goal for Inter after 64 minutes but limped off after taking a knock to his right thigh 10 minutes later, before Achraf Hakimi rounded out the win with three minutes to go. "There is great desire and it shows," said Conte as Inter target their first Serie A title since 2010 with their European campaign over this season. Roma held third place, six points behind Inter, with captain Edin Dzeko scoring with a quarter of an hour to go in a 1-0 win in the rain over former Roma coach Claudio Ranieri's Sampdoria. The capital side are ahead of Napoli who swept past Cagliari 4-1 with Piotr Zielinski scoring twice and Hirving Lozano and Lorenzo Insigne also on target late, the latter from the penalty spot. In a clash of European rivals, Atalanta whipped Sassuolo 5-1 with Colombian Duvan Zapata scoring twice. The Bergamo side were again playing without captain Papu Gomez who has fallen out with coach Gian Piero Gasperini. Zapata and Matteo Pessina scored in the first half with the Colombian adding a second just after the break with Robin Gosens and Luis Muriel compounding the rout before Vlad Chiriches pulled a goal back. Sassuolo are sixth one point ahead of Atalanta who have played a game less.

Ronaldo double lifts Juve as 10-man Milan stay top ahead of Inter

<p>Frank Lampard knows the demands of being a Chelsea manager under Roman Abramovich more than most having played for nine different coaches during his playing career at Stamford Bridge.</p>

<p>Now Lampard is the man in the firing line after Sunday's 3-1 defeat to Manchester City capped a run of one win in six games that looks to have extinguished any hope of a Premier League title challenge.</p>

<p>Much more was expected of the Blues after a £220 million ($300 million) spending spree in the transfer market at a time when most of European football's major powers were scaling back due to the economic effects of the coronavirus pandemic.</p>

<p>After bankrolling the purchases of Kai Havertz, Timo Werner, Hakim Ziyech, Ben Chilwell and Edouard Mendy, Abramovich will have expected more than Chelsea's position of eighth in the table nearly halfway through the season.</p>

<p>Patience has not been a virtue of the Russian's 18-year reign as Chelsea owner and even a club legend like Lampard, who is the club's all-time top goalscorer, is unlikely to be afforded much more time to turn the situation around.</p>

<p>The Athletic reported on Sunday that Chelsea are already lining up suitable candidates should the 42-year-old be sacked.</p>

<h2>- Great expectations -</h2>

<p>Lampard does have some credit in the bank from his first season in charge, which took the club back into the Champions League despite a transfer ban and the sale of Eden Hazard to Real Madrid.</p>

<p>But expectations have changed since the summer spending spree, even if Lampard has always cautioned Chelsea will need more time to match the standards set by Liverpool and City in recent seasons.</p>

<p>"The expectations are different this year because everyone looks and says 'you spent this amount of money'," Lampard said after a fourth defeat in six games.</p>

<p>"The reality is a lot of the players that have come in are new, young, have been injured, or not played together. There are a lot of expectations that are not real."&nbsp;</p>

<p>But the manner of defeat to a City side depleted by coronavirus infections and who have struggled to score goals this season, offered little sign of what Lampard is trying to build towards.</p>

<p>Chelsea's failure to launch a title challenge is all the more disappointing as Liverpool and City's standards have dropped in an unusual season, opening the door to the chasing pack.</p>

<p>As Manchester United and Tottenham have stepped forward to close the gap, Chelsea are trailing Leicester, Aston Villa and Everton, leaving Lampard with the lowest points-per-game tally of any manager in the Abramovich era.</p>

<p>The former England international's relationship with his players has also been questioned since his public rebuke of their attitude and commitment in a 3-1 defeat to Arsenal last weekend has not summoned the response he hoped for.</p>

<p>Instead there were more examples of lethargy as Ziyech watched on, while Kevin De Bruyne surged past him to score City's third goal inside 35 minutes.</p>

<p>Lampard's inability to summon the best from some of his big money buys has reportedly caused concern among the Chelsea hierarchy.</p>

<p>For the fourth consecutive game, the club's record signing Havertz only appeared as second-half substitute despite his side's struggles, while Werner, prolific in his time with RB Leipzig in the Bundesliga, has now failed to score in 13 games.</p>

<p>Lampard has been given the tools to build a team capable of much more than they have shown in the past month.</p>

<p>Now time is of the essence to start delivering if he is to ward off the same fate as so many Chelsea managers that have gone before him.</p>


Frank Lampard knows the demands of being a Chelsea manager under Roman Abramovich more than most having played for nine different coaches during his playing career at Stamford Bridge.

Frank Lampard knows the demands of being a Chelsea manager under Roman Abramovich more than most having played for nine different coaches during his playing career at Stamford Bridge. Now Lampard is the man in the firing line after Sunday's 3-1 defeat to Manchester City capped a run of one win in six games that looks to have extinguished any hope of a Premier League title challenge. Much more was expected of the Blues after a £220 million ($300 million) spending spree in the transfer market at a time when most of European football's major powers were scaling back due to the economic effects of the coronavirus pandemic. After bankrolling the purchases of Kai Havertz, Timo Werner, Hakim Ziyech, Ben Chilwell and Edouard Mendy, Abramovich will have expected more than Chelsea's position of eighth in the table nearly halfway through the season. Patience has not been a virtue of the Russian's 18-year reign as Chelsea owner and even a club legend like Lampard, who is the club's all-time top goalscorer, is unlikely to be afforded much more time to turn the situation around. The Athletic reported on Sunday that Chelsea are already lining up suitable candidates should the 42-year-old be sacked. - Great expectations - Lampard does have some credit in the bank from his first season in charge, which took the club back into the Champions League despite a transfer ban and the sale of Eden Hazard to Real Madrid. But expectations have changed since the summer spending spree, even if Lampard has always cautioned Chelsea will need more time to match the standards set by Liverpool and City in recent seasons. "The expectations are different this year because everyone looks and says 'you spent this amount of money'," Lampard said after a fourth defeat in six games. "The reality is a lot of the players that have come in are new, young, have been injured, or not played together. There are a lot of expectations that are not real." But the manner of defeat to a City side depleted by coronavirus infections and who have struggled to score goals this season, offered little sign of what Lampard is trying to build towards. Chelsea's failure to launch a title challenge is all the more disappointing as Liverpool and City's standards have dropped in an unusual season, opening the door to the chasing pack. As Manchester United and Tottenham have stepped forward to close the gap, Chelsea are trailing Leicester, Aston Villa and Everton, leaving Lampard with the lowest points-per-game tally of any manager in the Abramovich era. The former England international's relationship with his players has also been questioned since his public rebuke of their attitude and commitment in a 3-1 defeat to Arsenal last weekend has not summoned the response he hoped for. Instead there were more examples of lethargy as Ziyech watched on, while Kevin De Bruyne surged past him to score City's third goal inside 35 minutes. Lampard's inability to summon the best from some of his big money buys has reportedly caused concern among the Chelsea hierarchy. For the fourth consecutive game, the club's record signing Havertz only appeared as second-half substitute despite his side's struggles, while Werner, prolific in his time with RB Leipzig in the Bundesliga, has now failed to score in 13 games. Lampard has been given the tools to build a team capable of much more than they have shown in the past month. Now time is of the essence to start delivering if he is to ward off the same fate as so many Chelsea managers that have gone before him.

Chelsea collapse leaves Lampard testing Abramovich's patience

<p>A classic century by Kane Williamson in a 215-run stand with Henry Nicholls hauled New Zealand into a strong position at 286 for three at stumps on day two of the second Test against Pakistan on Monday.</p>

<p>New Zealand, having recovered from 71 for three in Christchurch, ended the day trailing Pakistan's first innings 297 by just 11 runs with seven wickets in hand.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Williamson, newly installed as the world's number one Test batsman, was unbeaten on 112, his 24th century, with Nicholls on 89.</p>

<p>It is Williamson's third century in as many Tests in the past month, although fortune was on his side. Late in the day, he was dropped twice and survived a run out when the bail had only partially dislodged in the split second it took to get his bat across the crease.</p>

<p>Pakistan, without a win in 10 away Tests since 2018, would have felt their luck was changing when New Zealand slumped from 52 without loss to 71 for three when Ross Taylor departed in the fifth over after lunch.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It could have been four for 74 when Nicholls was given out early, caught behind, only for the dismissal to be reversed by the TV umpire who detected Shaheen Afridi's delivery was a no ball.</p>

<p>With New Zealand in trouble, Williamson was all patience as he took 70 deliveries to reach 20, but he then put the foot down.</p>

<p>The next 30 runs came off 35 balls to reach 50 and it took another 35 balls to race from 50 to 100.</p>

<p>When Nicholls reached his 11th half-century with a two to square leg, Pakistan were very aware of the consequences of Afridi's no ball when the left-hander was on three.&nbsp;</p>

<p>New Zealand started their innings on a positive note with openers Tom Latham and Tom Blundell in a 52-run stand.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The pitch, although drying, continued to offer the bounce and movement which New Zealand exploited on day one, but with Latham and Blundell taking guard well in front of the crease the Pakistan bowlers were forced to adjust their lines.</p>

<p>The breakthrough came when Faheem Ashraf had a ball jag back sharply and rap Blundell's pads.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the following over, Afridi found the edge of Latham's bat with the ball flying to Shan Masood who spilled the catch at second slip only for his blushes to be spared by the quick reflexes of Haris Sohail who grasped the rebound from first slip.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It was a period when the Pakistan quicks, having found a good line and length, had New Zealand in a vice-like grip.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In five overs either side of lunch, New Zealand scored only five runs before Abbas found the edge of Taylor's bat and that time Masood made no mistake.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Masood later failed to pouch difficult chances from Williamson on 82 and 107, while Mohammad Rizwan dropped Nicholls on 86.</p>


A classic century by Kane Williamson in a 215-run stand with Henry Nicholls hauled New Zealand into a strong position at 286 for three at stumps on day two of the second Test against Pakistan on Monday.

A classic century by Kane Williamson in a 215-run stand with Henry Nicholls hauled New Zealand into a strong position at 286 for three at stumps on day two of the second Test against Pakistan on Monday. New Zealand, having recovered from 71 for three in Christchurch, ended the day trailing Pakistan's first innings 297 by just 11 runs with seven wickets in hand. Williamson, newly installed as the world's number one Test batsman, was unbeaten on 112, his 24th century, with Nicholls on 89. It is Williamson's third century in as many Tests in the past month, although fortune was on his side. Late in the day, he was dropped twice and survived a run out when the bail had only partially dislodged in the split second it took to get his bat across the crease. Pakistan, without a win in 10 away Tests since 2018, would have felt their luck was changing when New Zealand slumped from 52 without loss to 71 for three when Ross Taylor departed in the fifth over after lunch. It could have been four for 74 when Nicholls was given out early, caught behind, only for the dismissal to be reversed by the TV umpire who detected Shaheen Afridi's delivery was a no ball. With New Zealand in trouble, Williamson was all patience as he took 70 deliveries to reach 20, but he then put the foot down. The next 30 runs came off 35 balls to reach 50 and it took another 35 balls to race from 50 to 100. When Nicholls reached his 11th half-century with a two to square leg, Pakistan were very aware of the consequences of Afridi's no ball when the left-hander was on three. New Zealand started their innings on a positive note with openers Tom Latham and Tom Blundell in a 52-run stand. The pitch, although drying, continued to offer the bounce and movement which New Zealand exploited on day one, but with Latham and Blundell taking guard well in front of the crease the Pakistan bowlers were forced to adjust their lines. The breakthrough came when Faheem Ashraf had a ball jag back sharply and rap Blundell's pads. In the following over, Afridi found the edge of Latham's bat with the ball flying to Shan Masood who spilled the catch at second slip only for his blushes to be spared by the quick reflexes of Haris Sohail who grasped the rebound from first slip. It was a period when the Pakistan quicks, having found a good line and length, had New Zealand in a vice-like grip. In five overs either side of lunch, New Zealand scored only five runs before Abbas found the edge of Taylor's bat and that time Masood made no mistake. Masood later failed to pouch difficult chances from Williamson on 82 and 107, while Mohammad Rizwan dropped Nicholls on 86.

Classic Williamson ton swings momentum New Zealand's way

<p>The Uruguayan Football Players Association (AFU) on Monday ripped into the English Football Association (FA) on their three-match ban on Manchester United forward Edinson Cavani following a social media post where the Uruguayan referred to his friend as 'negrito'. Cavani deleted the post after being told about the meaning in English language and later apologised for it.</p>

<p>After investigating the incident, Cavani was suspended for three matches by the FA. The 33-year-old said that he used the world as an expression of affection to a close friend. The FA had said that the remark was “improper and brought the game into disrepute” and fined Cavani 100,000 pounds. Cavani has been asked to complete “face-to-face education” as part of his punishment.</p>

<p>The Uruguayan Football Players Association launched a scathing attack on English FA as they deemed the sanction on Cavani as a "discriminatory act against the culture and way of life of the Uruguayan people". The AFU further asked the English FA to "immediately overturn the sanction imposed" on Cavani.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cristiano-ronaldo-surpasses-peles-record-climbs-second-in-all-time-goal-scoring-charts-354342">Cristiano Ronaldo surpasses Pele's goal-scoring record</a></strong></p>

<p>AFU, in its statement, passionately defended Cavani as they said that the veteran footballer never committed anything that could be "interpreted as racist".</p>

<p>Cavani, after accepting the sanction by English FA, said that while he apologised if someone was hurt by his post, he was disappointed by the charge handed out by the English governing body.</p>

<p>Even Atletico Madrid and Uruguayan defender Diego Godin along with Jose Maria Gimenez, Lucas Torreira, Luis Suarez among others, shared the official statement by AFU on his Twitter account.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/apologise-if-i-offended-someone-manchester-uniteds-edinson-cavani-accepts-fa-sanction-353912">'Apologise if I offended someone' - Manchester United's Edinson Cavani accepts FA sanction</a></strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="es">🇺🇾¡Estamos con vos <a href="https://twitter.com/ECavaniOfficial?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ECavaniOfficial</a>!<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GraciasNegrito?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GraciasNegrito</a> <a href="https://t.co/hPJZKT6Zy1">pic.twitter.com/hPJZKT6Zy1</a></p>
— MUFP (@Mutual_Uru) <a href="https://twitter.com/Mutual_Uru/status/1346081914113970176?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 4, 2021</a></blockquote>
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— Diego Godín (@diegogodin) <a href="https://twitter.com/diegogodin/status/1346079065690808324?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 4, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<h2>Full statement of the Uruguayan Football Players Association on Edinson Cavani:</h2>

<p>"The undersigned members of the Uruguayan Football Players Association (AFU), composed of both the men and women professional and amateur sectors, including the different types, would like to state the following in response to the sanction imposed by the English Football Association on our colleague Edinson Cavani:</p>

<p>"Firstly, we must condemn the arbitrary conduct of the English Football Association. Far from condemning racism, the English Football Association has itself committed a discriminatory act against the culture and way of life of the Uruguayan people. The sanction shows the English Football Association's biased, dogmatic and ethnocentric vision that only allows a subjective interpretation to be made from its particular and excluding conclusion, however flawed it may be.</p>

<p>"Edinson Cavani has never committed any conduct that could be interpreted as racist. He merely used a common expression in Latin America to affectionately address a loved one or close friend. To sustain that the only way to obtain a valid interpretation in life is that which lies in the minds of the managers of the English Football Association is actually a true discriminatory act, which is completely reprehensible and against Uruguayan culture.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We would therefore like to publicly defend Edison Cavani's impeccable character and of course our country's culture. We are all against any kind of discrimination; however, unfortunately, through its sanction, the English Football Association expresses absolute ignorance and disdain for a multicultural vision of the world, respectively of its plurality, by erroneously, unilaterally and rigidly imposing its anti-racist rules, the basis of which we support but are obviously not realistically applicable to the case in question here. It has not just punished one person, but also our whole culture, our way of life, which is truly a discriminatory and racist act.</p>

<p>"Lastly, we urge the English Football Association to review its decision-making processes related to these issues immediately so that it does not commit any similar injustice ever again. Its regulations should take into account the plurality of people's ways of life and cultures. The first rule to fight against racism is to respect such different ways of life and cultures.</p>

<p>"By virtue of the foregoing, we request the FA to immediately overturn the sanction imposed on Edinson Cavani and reinstate his good name and honour in the world that has been so unfairly tarnished by the reprehensible decision.</p>

<p>"Montevideo, 3 January 2021."</p>


The Uruguayan Football Players Association (AFU) on Monday ripped into the English Football Association (FA) on their three-match ban on Manchester United forward Edinson Cavani following a social media post where the Uruguayan referred to his friend as 'negrito'.

The Uruguayan Football Players Association (AFU) on Monday ripped into the English Football Association (FA) on their three-match ban on Manchester United forward Edinson Cavani following a social media post where the Uruguayan referred to his friend as 'negrito'. Cavani deleted the post after being told about the meaning in English language and later apologised for it. After investigating the incident, Cavani was suspended for three matches by the FA. The 33-year-old said that he used the world as an expression of affection to a close friend. The FA had said that the remark was “improper and brought the game into disrepute” and fined Cavani 100,000 pounds. Cavani has been asked to complete “face-to-face education” as part of his punishment. The Uruguayan Football Players Association launched a scathing attack on English FA as they deemed the sanction on Cavani as a "discriminatory act against the culture and way of life of the Uruguayan people". The AFU further asked the English FA to "immediately overturn the sanction imposed" on Cavani. ALSO READ: Cristiano Ronaldo surpasses Pele's goal-scoring record AFU, in its statement, passionately defended Cavani as they said that the veteran footballer never committed anything that could be "interpreted as racist". Cavani, after accepting the sanction by English FA, said that while he apologised if someone was hurt by his post, he was disappointed by the charge handed out by the English governing body. Even Atletico Madrid and Uruguayan defender Diego Godin along with Jose Maria Gimenez, Lucas Torreira, Luis Suarez among others, shared the official statement by AFU on his Twitter account. ALSO READ: 'Apologise if I offended someone' - Manchester United's Edinson Cavani accepts FA sanction 🇺🇾¡Estamos con vos @ECavaniOfficial!#GraciasNegrito pic.twitter.com/hPJZKT6Zy1 — MUFP (@Mutual_Uru) January 4, 2021 × COMUNICADO OFICIAL pic.twitter.com/WzLkG6nlSf — Diego Godín (@diegogodin) January 4, 2021 × 👊🏻🙌🏻 https://t.co/kuZxiFybmU — Luis Suarez (@LuisSuarez9) January 4, 2021 × Full statement of the Uruguayan Football Players Association on Edinson Cavani: "The undersigned members of the Uruguayan Football Players Association (AFU), composed of both the men and women professional and amateur sectors, including the different types, would like to state the following in response to the sanction imposed by the English Football Association on our colleague Edinson Cavani: "Firstly, we must condemn the arbitrary conduct of the English Football Association. Far from condemning racism, the English Football Association has itself committed a discriminatory act against the culture and way of life of the Uruguayan people. The sanction shows the English Football Association's biased, dogmatic and ethnocentric vision that only allows a subjective interpretation to be made from its particular and excluding conclusion, however flawed it may be. "Edinson Cavani has never committed any conduct that could be interpreted as racist. He merely used a common expression in Latin America to affectionately address a loved one or close friend. To sustain that the only way to obtain a valid interpretation in life is that which lies in the minds of the managers of the English Football Association is actually a true discriminatory act, which is completely reprehensible and against Uruguayan culture. "We would therefore like to publicly defend Edison Cavani's impeccable character and of course our country's culture. We are all against any kind of discrimination; however, unfortunately, through its sanction, the English Football Association expresses absolute ignorance and disdain for a multicultural vision of the world, respectively of its plurality, by erroneously, unilaterally and rigidly imposing its anti-racist rules, the basis of which we support but are obviously not realistically applicable to the case in question here. It has not just punished one person, but also our whole culture, our way of life, which is truly a discriminatory and racist act. "Lastly, we urge the English Football Association to review its decision-making processes related to these issues immediately so that it does not commit any similar injustice ever again. Its regulations should take into account the plurality of people's ways of life and cultures. The first rule to fight against racism is to respect such different ways of life and cultures. "By virtue of the foregoing, we request the FA to immediately overturn the sanction imposed on Edinson Cavani and reinstate his good name and honour in the world that has been so unfairly tarnished by the reprehensible decision. "Montevideo, 3 January 2021."

'Biased and discriminatory act...': Uruguayan players' association rips into English FA over Edinson Cavani's ban

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