<p>Thailand's badminton chief pledged that next month's restart tournaments will be the "safest in the world" on Wednesday after heavyweights China withdrew because of coronavirus restrictions.</p>

<p>China's pull-out blows a big hole in the draw for the three world tour events from January 12 in Bangkok, the first in Asia since Covid-19 shut down the sport in March.</p>

<p>Badminton Association of Thailand president Patama Leeswadtrakul said China's anti-coronavirus rules prevented the team, which includes men's Olympic champion Chen Long and women's world number two Chen Yufei, from travelling.</p>

<p>"The reason is that the Chinese government doesn't allow them to go out of the country -- not just for the sport of badminton but for all kinds of athletes," Patama told AFP.</p>

<p>The three back-to-back tournaments, in bio-secure "bubble" conditions and behind closed doors, culminate in the delayed 2020 World Tour Finals from January 27.</p>

<p>Patama said the Thai government has been working to ensure top standards of health, including isolating players the minute they get off their flights.</p>

<p>"This bubble competition will be the safest in the world," Patama said. "After January 4, no one is allowed to enter this bubble and all the measures and protocol are very strict for the health and safety of everyone."&nbsp;</p>

<p>She admitted that the prospect of playing without fans was a concern for some competitors, who are worried about how it may affect their performances.</p>

<p>"Our badminton players also mention these same feelings... But we have to seal everyone in the bubble for the best health this time," she said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We are the only tournament that can host in this world at this time -- I mean internationally, globally, at this time of resurgence."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Thailand has seen a low toll from the virus since it registered the first case outside of China in January.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But new outbreaks in recent weeks have prompted the government to put certain areas under partial restrictions after months of relative normalcy.&nbsp;</p>


Thailand's badminton chief pledged that next month's restart tournaments will be the "safest in the world" on Wednesday after heavyweights China withdrew because of coronavirus restrictions.

Thailand's badminton chief pledged that next month's restart tournaments will be the "safest in the world" on Wednesday after heavyweights China withdrew because of coronavirus restrictions. China's pull-out blows a big hole in the draw for the three world tour events from January 12 in Bangkok, the first in Asia since Covid-19 shut down the sport in March. Badminton Association of Thailand president Patama Leeswadtrakul said China's anti-coronavirus rules prevented the team, which includes men's Olympic champion Chen Long and women's world number two Chen Yufei, from travelling. "The reason is that the Chinese government doesn't allow them to go out of the country -- not just for the sport of badminton but for all kinds of athletes," Patama told AFP. The three back-to-back tournaments, in bio-secure "bubble" conditions and behind closed doors, culminate in the delayed 2020 World Tour Finals from January 27. Patama said the Thai government has been working to ensure top standards of health, including isolating players the minute they get off their flights. "This bubble competition will be the safest in the world," Patama said. "After January 4, no one is allowed to enter this bubble and all the measures and protocol are very strict for the health and safety of everyone." She admitted that the prospect of playing without fans was a concern for some competitors, who are worried about how it may affect their performances. "Our badminton players also mention these same feelings... But we have to seal everyone in the bubble for the best health this time," she said. "We are the only tournament that can host in this world at this time -- I mean internationally, globally, at this time of resurgence." Thailand has seen a low toll from the virus since it registered the first case outside of China in January. But new outbreaks in recent weeks have prompted the government to put certain areas under partial restrictions after months of relative normalcy.

Thailand pledges 'world's safest' badminton as China pull out

<p>New Zealand beat Pakistan by 101 runs on Wednesday after a thrilling finish to the first Test in Mount Maunganui, where the visitors were just 27 balls from pulling off a battling draw.</p>

<p>Tail-enders Shaheen Afridi and Naseem Shah blocked for seven overs in fading light before Naseem was caught and bowled by spinner Mitchell Santner for one, ending Pakistan's resistance.</p>

<p>The end for Pakistan had begun when Kyle Jamieson, celebrating his 26th birthday, broke the 165-run fifth-wicket stand by Fawad Alam and Mohammad Rizwan.</p>

<p>The victory was crucial for New Zealand, who need to sweep the two-Test series to have a chance of making the World Test Championship final at Lord's in June.</p>

<p>Once Jamieson claimed the crucial wicket of Rizwan, lbw for 60, Neil Wagner -- bowling despite breaking two toes while batting -- removed Alam for 102 and New Zealand were into the tail as Pakistan folded from 240 for four to be all out for 271.</p>

<p>Jamieson produced a particularly miserly spell after the tea break when he sent down nine overs and took two for four.</p>

<p>Apart from when Pakistan whipped out the New Zealand openers cheaply on day one, the match had been in New Zealand's control until Rizwan, the stand-in skipper, joined Alam in the middle with Pakistan 75 for four on the final morning.</p>

<p>New Zealand required six more wickets, Pakistan needed 298 runs and more than 78 overs remained.</p>

<p>By tea, Alam and Rizwan were still together, Pakistan had narrowed the target to 158 in 36 overs and New Zealand still needed six wickets.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But Jamieson removed Rizwan 11 overs into the final session.</p>

<p>Jamieson had gone close several times previously, and even his lbw shout against Rizwan was turned down before the umpire's decision was overturned on review.</p>

<p>Alam, who had occupied the crease with Rizwan for more than 63 overs, lasted three more overs until he gloved a Wagner short ball to wicketkeeper BJ Watling down the leg side.</p>

<p>Alam had been discarded by Pakistan in 2009 after three Tests and a best innings of 168, and since his recall this year his highest score was 21 against England in August.&nbsp;</p>

<p>There were a few loose shots early in his innings and a nerve-wracking moment when a ball ricocheted off his arm and bounced dangerously close to the stumps.</p>

<p>Otherwise, he staunchly held his own through 269 deliveries before bringing up his century with a four off Wagner, but scored only two more runs off his next 33 balls before his dismissal.</p>

<p>New Zealand's frontline pace bowlers Tim Southee, Trent Boult, Wagner, Jamieson and Santner each took two wickets.</p>


New Zealand beat Pakistan by 101 runs on Wednesday after a thrilling finish to the first Test in Mount Maunganui, where the visitors were just 27 balls from pulling off a battling draw.

New Zealand beat Pakistan by 101 runs on Wednesday after a thrilling finish to the first Test in Mount Maunganui, where the visitors were just 27 balls from pulling off a battling draw. Tail-enders Shaheen Afridi and Naseem Shah blocked for seven overs in fading light before Naseem was caught and bowled by spinner Mitchell Santner for one, ending Pakistan's resistance. The end for Pakistan had begun when Kyle Jamieson, celebrating his 26th birthday, broke the 165-run fifth-wicket stand by Fawad Alam and Mohammad Rizwan. The victory was crucial for New Zealand, who need to sweep the two-Test series to have a chance of making the World Test Championship final at Lord's in June. Once Jamieson claimed the crucial wicket of Rizwan, lbw for 60, Neil Wagner -- bowling despite breaking two toes while batting -- removed Alam for 102 and New Zealand were into the tail as Pakistan folded from 240 for four to be all out for 271. Jamieson produced a particularly miserly spell after the tea break when he sent down nine overs and took two for four. Apart from when Pakistan whipped out the New Zealand openers cheaply on day one, the match had been in New Zealand's control until Rizwan, the stand-in skipper, joined Alam in the middle with Pakistan 75 for four on the final morning. New Zealand required six more wickets, Pakistan needed 298 runs and more than 78 overs remained. By tea, Alam and Rizwan were still together, Pakistan had narrowed the target to 158 in 36 overs and New Zealand still needed six wickets. But Jamieson removed Rizwan 11 overs into the final session. Jamieson had gone close several times previously, and even his lbw shout against Rizwan was turned down before the umpire's decision was overturned on review. Alam, who had occupied the crease with Rizwan for more than 63 overs, lasted three more overs until he gloved a Wagner short ball to wicketkeeper BJ Watling down the leg side. Alam had been discarded by Pakistan in 2009 after three Tests and a best innings of 168, and since his recall this year his highest score was 21 against England in August. There were a few loose shots early in his innings and a nerve-wracking moment when a ball ricocheted off his arm and bounced dangerously close to the stumps. Otherwise, he staunchly held his own through 269 deliveries before bringing up his century with a four off Wagner, but scored only two more runs off his next 33 balls before his dismissal. New Zealand's frontline pace bowlers Tim Southee, Trent Boult, Wagner, Jamieson and Santner each took two wickets.

New Zealand end Pakistan defiance for thrilling Test win

<p>The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/premier-league">Premier League</a> on Wednesday postponed the match between Tottenham Hotspur versus Fulham after the Cottagers recorded multiple positive COVID-19 tests on Tuesday.</p>

<p>Spurs versus Fulham was set to start at 18:00 GMT on Wednesday at the Tottenham Hotspur stadium but was postponed amid rising fears of COVID-19 outbreak in the English top-flight. It is the second Premier League fixture to be postponed this week after Manchester City’s match against Everton was deferred following “an increase in positive COVID-19 test results” at City.</p>

<p>Fulham recorded a number of positive cases for the coronavirus in the first round of testing across the Premier League. The clubs in Tier 4 are needed to test twice a week in a bid to halt the rising cases of the virus.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/will-the-premier-league-get-suspended-heres-everything-you-need-to-know-353425" hreflang="en">Will the Premier League get suspended? Here's everything you need to know</a></strong></p>

<p>On Tuesday, the Premier League announced that it had record 18 positive cases last week – the most since the pandemic started. The likes of Arsenal and Sheffield United have all confirmed positive cases this week.</p>

<p>Even Fulham manager Scott Parker, in his press conference on Tuesday, said that he had tested negative for the virus on Sunday and hence, was allowed to return to the training ground at the start of this week.</p>

<p>Earlier on Wednesday, Spurs manager Jose Mourinho took a cheeky jibe at the Premier League for lack of clarity regarding the scheduling of matches with the Premier League Board delaying the final call just hours before the kick-off time.</p>

<p>Mourinho took to micro-blogging platform Instagram as he posted a video of his staff four hours before the scheduled kick-off time: “Match at 6 pm... We still don’t know if we play. Best league in the world,” he captioned the post.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/im-very-concerned-west-broms-sam-allardyce-calls-for-circuit-break-in-premier-league-353384" hreflang="en">'I'm very concerned...' - West Brom's Sam Allardyce calls for 'circuit-break' in Premier League</a></strong></p>

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<h2>Premier League statement on Tottenham Hostpur vs Fulham:&nbsp;</h2>

<p>"The match between Tottenham Hotspur and Fulham, due to be played at 18:00 GMT this evening, has been postponed following a Premier League Board meeting this afternoon.</p>

<p>"Fulham lodged a request with the Premier League Board to rearrange the fixture following a significant rise in positive COVID-19 cases, as well as a number of players showing symptoms today.</p>

<p>"The Premier League Board has consulted its medical advisors and the decision to postpone the game has been taken as a precaution and with the health of players and staff as the priority. The group will now be retested immediately.</p>

<p>"With low numbers of positive tests across the overwhelming majority of clubs, the Premier League continues to have full confidence in its COVID-19 protocols and being able to continue to play our fixtures as scheduled.</p>

<p>"The League wishes those with COVID-19 a safe and speedy recovery and will rearrange the postponed fixture between Tottenham Hotspur and Fulham in due course."</p>


The Premier League on Wednesday postponed the match between Tottenham Hotspur versus Fulham after the Cottagers recorded multiple positive COVID-19 tests on Tuesday.

The Premier League on Wednesday postponed the match between Tottenham Hotspur versus Fulham after the Cottagers recorded multiple positive COVID-19 tests on Tuesday. Spurs versus Fulham was set to start at 18:00 GMT on Wednesday at the Tottenham Hotspur stadium but was postponed amid rising fears of COVID-19 outbreak in the English top-flight. It is the second Premier League fixture to be postponed this week after Manchester City’s match against Everton was deferred following “an increase in positive COVID-19 test results” at City. Fulham recorded a number of positive cases for the coronavirus in the first round of testing across the Premier League. The clubs in Tier 4 are needed to test twice a week in a bid to halt the rising cases of the virus. ALSO READ: Will the Premier League get suspended? Here's everything you need to know On Tuesday, the Premier League announced that it had record 18 positive cases last week – the most since the pandemic started. The likes of Arsenal and Sheffield United have all confirmed positive cases this week. Even Fulham manager Scott Parker, in his press conference on Tuesday, said that he had tested negative for the virus on Sunday and hence, was allowed to return to the training ground at the start of this week. Earlier on Wednesday, Spurs manager Jose Mourinho took a cheeky jibe at the Premier League for lack of clarity regarding the scheduling of matches with the Premier League Board delaying the final call just hours before the kick-off time. Mourinho took to micro-blogging platform Instagram as he posted a video of his staff four hours before the scheduled kick-off time: “Match at 6 pm... We still don’t know if we play. Best league in the world,” he captioned the post. ALSO READ: 'I'm very concerned...' - West Brom's Sam Allardyce calls for 'circuit-break' in Premier League View this post on Instagram A post shared by Jose Mourinho (@josemourinho) × Premier League statement on Tottenham Hostpur vs Fulham: "The match between Tottenham Hotspur and Fulham, due to be played at 18:00 GMT this evening, has been postponed following a Premier League Board meeting this afternoon. "Fulham lodged a request with the Premier League Board to rearrange the fixture following a significant rise in positive COVID-19 cases, as well as a number of players showing symptoms today. "The Premier League Board has consulted its medical advisors and the decision to postpone the game has been taken as a precaution and with the health of players and staff as the priority. The group will now be retested immediately. "With low numbers of positive tests across the overwhelming majority of clubs, the Premier League continues to have full confidence in its COVID-19 protocols and being able to continue to play our fixtures as scheduled. "The League wishes those with COVID-19 a safe and speedy recovery and will rearrange the postponed fixture between Tottenham Hotspur and Fulham in due course."

Tottenham Hotspur vs Fulham postponed as COVID-19 cases hit Premier League

<p>With as many as <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-18-new-positive-covid-19-cases-from-latest-round-of-testing-353173">18 COVID-19 positive results</a> in the latest round of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/premier-league">Premier League</a> testing, calls are being made for the English top-flight league to take a break for a couple of weeks. While the likes of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/im-very-concerned-west-broms-sam-allardyce-calls-for-circuit-break-in-premier-league-353384">Sam Allardyce has already called for a two-break “circuit-break”</a>, will the Premier League witness a break again as the new coronavirus strain wreaks havoc in the United Kingdom?</p>

<p>The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/premier-league">Premier League</a> match between <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/man-citys-clash-at-everton-postponed-due-to-multiple-covid-19-cases-353016">Everton and Manchester City was postponed</a> at the last hour amid concerns of an outbreak within the City squad. The training ground of Manchester City has already been shut indefinitely with deep cleaning taking place after another round of testing on Tuesday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A number of positive COVID-19 cases at Fulham has also put their match against Tottenham Hotspur, on Wednesday, in doubt with a final call expected to be taken by the Premier League Board soon. Earlier in December, the match between Aston Villa and Newcastle United also suffered postponement.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After postponing the match between Man City and Everton, the Premier League stated that decisions to rearrange games are only in "exceptional" circumstances and judged on "case-by-case basis".</p>

<h2>What do Premier League rules say about postponement?</h2>

<p>“Permission will not be granted to postpone a League Match where the applicant Club has 14 or more Players listed on its Squad List available.”</p>

<h2>Will the Premier League get postponed, again?</h2>

<p>Latest reports suggest that no discussions have taken place either formally or informally about a break and in all likelihood, matches will continue. However, the Premier League has ramped up the COVID-19 testing with two tests mandatory for all Premier League clubs from January.</p>

<h2>What have Premier League managers said?</h2>

<p><strong>Manchester United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer</strong>: “It’s not something I’ve thought about a lot. I think our players have been really good in following protocols and rules. That’s part of the job here, that we as clubs follow the protocols given. I can’t see the benefit in having a circuit break, whatever it’s going to be called.</p>

<p>“Because when are we going to play the games? We all know this year is so difficult, but I don’t think stopping the games is going to make a big, big change.”</p>

<p><strong>West Brom boss Sam Allardyce:</strong> “Everyone’s safety is more important than anything else. When I listen to the news the variant virus transmits quicker than the original virus [so] we can only do the right thing which is have a circuit break.</p>

<p>“I am 66 years old and the last thing I want to do is catch Covid. I’m very concerned for myself and football in general. If that’s what needs to be done we need to do it. We had one positive this week and it seems to be creeping around no matter how hard we try.”</p>

<p><strong>Wolves boss Nuno Espirito Santo:</strong> “The rising of the cases is increasing massively over the country and we are not an exception.<br />
“Some things are impossible to avoid. If there’s a break coming, then people have to sit down and see if it’s for the better.”<br />
Brighton boss Graham Potter: “Whatever the people think is the right thing to do, for the health of our community, that’s the most important thing. Whatever is deemed right, that’s what we’ll do.”</p>

<p><strong>Burnley boss Sean Dyche</strong>: “We’ve got protocols in place and everyone has tried to align with the protocols. But that doesn’t stop everything.</p>

<p>“I just hope it stays outside of football as best it can. If the numbers keep rising we’ll have to deal with that accordingly.”</p>

<p><strong>Sheffield United boss Chris Wilder</strong>: “We’ve lost five members of staff and some players as well. I think it’s the start of something. We’re going through the process and I’m doing the best I can to keep it away from the players.</p>

<p>“But sometimes it’s virtually impossible. We’ve seen the rise in cases right the way through, so we’re just going to have to battle on.”</p>

<h2>Premier League COVID-19 tests results:&nbsp;</h2>

<ul>
	<li>Round 1: 31 Aug-6 Sep – 1,605 tested, with three testing positive.</li>
	<li>Round 2: 7-13 Sep – 2,131 tested, with four testing positive.</li>
	<li>Round 3: 14-20 Sep – 1,574 tested, with three testing positive.</li>
	<li>Round 4: 21-27 Sep – 1,595 tested, with 10 testing positive.</li>
	<li>Round 5: 28 Sep-4 Oct – 1,587 tested, with nine testing positive.</li>
	<li>Round 6: 5-11 Oct – 1,128 tested, with five testing positive.</li>
	<li>Round 7: 12-18 Oct – 1,575 tested, with eight testing positive.</li>
	<li>Round 8: 19-25 Oct – 1,609 tested, with two testing positive.</li>
	<li>Round 9: 26 Oct-1 Nov – 1,446 tested, with four testing positive.</li>
	<li>Round 10: 2-8 Nov – 1,646 tested, with four testing positive.</li>
	<li>Round 11: 9-15 Nov – 1,207 tested, with 16 testing positive.</li>
	<li>Round 12: 16-22 Nov – 1,530 tested, with eight testing positive.</li>
	<li>Round 13: 23-29 Nov – 1,381 tested, with 10 testing positive.</li>
	<li>Round 14: 30 Nov-6 Dec – 1,483 tested with 14 testing positive.</li>
	<li>Round 15: 7-13 Dec – 1,549 tested with six testing positive.</li>
	<li>Round 16: 14-20 Dec – 1,569 tested with seven testing positive.</li>
	<li>Round 17: 21-27 Dec – 1,479 tested with 18 testing positive.</li>
</ul>


With as many as 18 COVID-19 positive results in the latest round of Premier League testing, calls are being made for the English top-flight league to take a break for a couple of weeks.

With as many as 18 COVID-19 positive results in the latest round of Premier League testing, calls are being made for the English top-flight league to take a break for a couple of weeks. While the likes of Sam Allardyce has already called for a two-break “circuit-break”, will the Premier League witness a break again as the new coronavirus strain wreaks havoc in the United Kingdom? The Premier League match between Everton and Manchester City was postponed at the last hour amid concerns of an outbreak within the City squad. The training ground of Manchester City has already been shut indefinitely with deep cleaning taking place after another round of testing on Tuesday. A number of positive COVID-19 cases at Fulham has also put their match against Tottenham Hotspur, on Wednesday, in doubt with a final call expected to be taken by the Premier League Board soon. Earlier in December, the match between Aston Villa and Newcastle United also suffered postponement. After postponing the match between Man City and Everton, the Premier League stated that decisions to rearrange games are only in "exceptional" circumstances and judged on "case-by-case basis". What do Premier League rules say about postponement? “Permission will not be granted to postpone a League Match where the applicant Club has 14 or more Players listed on its Squad List available.” Will the Premier League get postponed, again? Latest reports suggest that no discussions have taken place either formally or informally about a break and in all likelihood, matches will continue. However, the Premier League has ramped up the COVID-19 testing with two tests mandatory for all Premier League clubs from January. What have Premier League managers said? Manchester United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer: “It’s not something I’ve thought about a lot. I think our players have been really good in following protocols and rules. That’s part of the job here, that we as clubs follow the protocols given. I can’t see the benefit in having a circuit break, whatever it’s going to be called. “Because when are we going to play the games? We all know this year is so difficult, but I don’t think stopping the games is going to make a big, big change.” West Brom boss Sam Allardyce: “Everyone’s safety is more important than anything else. When I listen to the news the variant virus transmits quicker than the original virus [so] we can only do the right thing which is have a circuit break. “I am 66 years old and the last thing I want to do is catch Covid. I’m very concerned for myself and football in general. If that’s what needs to be done we need to do it. We had one positive this week and it seems to be creeping around no matter how hard we try.” Wolves boss Nuno Espirito Santo: “The rising of the cases is increasing massively over the country and we are not an exception. “Some things are impossible to avoid. If there’s a break coming, then people have to sit down and see if it’s for the better.” Brighton boss Graham Potter: “Whatever the people think is the right thing to do, for the health of our community, that’s the most important thing. Whatever is deemed right, that’s what we’ll do.” Burnley boss Sean Dyche: “We’ve got protocols in place and everyone has tried to align with the protocols. But that doesn’t stop everything. “I just hope it stays outside of football as best it can. If the numbers keep rising we’ll have to deal with that accordingly.” Sheffield United boss Chris Wilder: “We’ve lost five members of staff and some players as well. I think it’s the start of something. We’re going through the process and I’m doing the best I can to keep it away from the players. “But sometimes it’s virtually impossible. We’ve seen the rise in cases right the way through, so we’re just going to have to battle on.” Premier League COVID-19 tests results: Round 1: 31 Aug-6 Sep – 1,605 tested, with three testing positive. Round 2: 7-13 Sep – 2,131 tested, with four testing positive. Round 3: 14-20 Sep – 1,574 tested, with three testing positive. Round 4: 21-27 Sep – 1,595 tested, with 10 testing positive. Round 5: 28 Sep-4 Oct – 1,587 tested, with nine testing positive. Round 6: 5-11 Oct – 1,128 tested, with five testing positive. Round 7: 12-18 Oct – 1,575 tested, with eight testing positive. Round 8: 19-25 Oct – 1,609 tested, with two testing positive. Round 9: 26 Oct-1 Nov – 1,446 tested, with four testing positive. Round 10: 2-8 Nov – 1,646 tested, with four testing positive. Round 11: 9-15 Nov – 1,207 tested, with 16 testing positive. Round 12: 16-22 Nov – 1,530 tested, with eight testing positive. Round 13: 23-29 Nov – 1,381 tested, with 10 testing positive. Round 14: 30 Nov-6 Dec – 1,483 tested with 14 testing positive. Round 15: 7-13 Dec – 1,549 tested with six testing positive. Round 16: 14-20 Dec – 1,569 tested with seven testing positive. Round 17: 21-27 Dec – 1,479 tested with 18 testing positive.

Will the Premier League get suspended? Here's everything you need to know

<p>Liverpool sharpshooter Mohamed Salah will be a star in demand during 2021 with Egypt wanting him not only for World Cup and Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, but also the Olympic Games. &nbsp;</p>

<p>The record seven-time African champions face between six and eight World Cup matches and two in the Cup of Nations as the continent plays catch-up after 2020 schedules were severely affected by the coronavirus.</p>

<p>Qualifiers for the Olympics are permitted three over-age players in a tournament otherwise restricted to under-23 footballers and Salah tops the Egyptian wish list as they plan for Tokyo. &nbsp;</p>

<p>Here, AFP Sport outlines what lies ahead for African football with a new Confederation of African Football (CAF) president set to be elected in March after incumbent Ahmad Ahmad was banned for five years by FIFA.</p>

<h2>World Cup</h2>

<p>Salah and fellow former African Footballer of the Year Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang will come face to face in Group F where Gabon are likely to pose the biggest threat to Egypt.</p>

<p>Libya, who cannot play at home because of a violent struggle for political control of the oil-rich country, and off-form Angola are also in the section and only the team finishing first survive. &nbsp;</p>

<p>African champions Algeria, Tunisia, Nigeria, Cameroon, Mali, Egypt, Ghana, Senegal, Morocco and the Democratic Republic of Congo are seeded to win the 10 groups and reach the two-leg final phase.</p>

<h2>Cup of Nations</h2>

<p>Among the last 10 champions, 2012 title-holders Zambia are in most danger of missing the 24-team tournament in Cameroon, which has been put back one year to the beginning of 2022 because of Covid-19.</p>

<p>The Chipolopolo (Copper Bullets) are last in a group where defending champions Algeria have already qualified, Zimbabwe lie second and Botswana third.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Zambia have lost three of four qualifiers and host Algeria and visit Zimbabwe during March as they try to avoid missing three consecutive Cup of Nations finals.</p>

<h2>Nations Championship</h2>

<p>Hosts Cameroon hope to emulate 2018 champions Morocco and win at home a 16-team competition reserved for footballers playing in their country of birth.</p>

<p>It will be a tough task for the Cameroonians, though, after a change of coaches and disappointing warm-up results for the January 16-February 7 tournament.</p>

<p>Qualifying was riddled with shocks and Algeria, Ghana, the Ivory Coast, Nigeria and Senegal were eliminated while former champions Tunisia withdrew after securing a place, citing fixture congestion.&nbsp;</p>

<h2>Olympic Games</h2>

<p>Africa has collected two gold, a silver and two bronze medals from the last seven Olympic Games football tournaments with Nigeria winning in 1996 and Cameroon emulating them four years later.</p>

<p>Neither country will be in Tokyo, however, with Egypt, the Ivory Coast and South Africa the African representatives.</p>

<p>It will be the 11th appearance by Egypt -- a record for an African nation -- and their best showings were finishing fourth at the 1928 Amsterdam and 1964 Tokyo Games.&nbsp;</p>

<h2>Champions League</h2>

<p>Al Ahly of Egypt will not only defend the Champions League title, but also face Renaissance Berkane of Morocco in the CAF Super Cup, and try to improve a poor FIFA Club World Cup record.</p>

<p>The greatest threats to the Red Devils in the Champions League are likely to come from Cairo neighbours Zamalek, Casablanca clubs Raja and Wydad and Esperance Tunis.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ahly have regularly flopped in the Club World Cup, losing nine of 12 matches in five appearances, including a 5-1 trouncing by Mexicans Monterrey. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<h2>Confederation Cup</h2>

<p>Berkane defeated expensively assembled Egyptian outfit Pyramids in the 2020 final and both look among the strongest contenders again. &nbsp;</p>

<p>Etoile Sahel of Tunisia, the only club to win all five current and past CAF competitions, and 2015 Confederation Cup runners-up Orlando Pirates of South Africa could go far.</p>

<p>Champions League last 32 losers join the African equivalent of the UEFA Europa League at the playoffs stage and they could include CS Sfaxien of Tunisia, winners of the Confederation Cup a record three times.</p>

<h2>CAF presidency</h2>

<p>Malagasy Ahmad was a hot favourites to secure a second term as CAF president until FIFA barred him from all football activities for five years.</p>

<p>A FIFA statement said the 60 year old had "breached his duty of loyalty, offered gifts and other benefits, mismanaged funds and abused his position as the CAF president".</p>

<p>With Ahmad sidelined, Ivorian Jacques Anouma, Mauritanian Ahmed Yahya, Senegalese Augustin Senghor and South African Patrice Motsepe will contest the election in Rabat on March 12.</p>

<h2>TV blackout</h2>

<p>Football followers in the many African countries where Johannesburg-based SuperSport provide coverage of CAF competitions will be hoping for the end of a blackout with the Nations Championship looming.</p>

<p>CAF last year ended a $1 billion (815 million euros) contract with French company Lagardere, due to run until 2028, after a Cairo court said the agreement breached Egyptian competition rules.&nbsp;</p>

<p>SuperSport, who screened matches along with Canal+ (French) and BeIN Sports (Arabic), said they could not continue as they had signed a contract with Lagardere. &nbsp;</p>


Liverpool sharpshooter Mohamed Salah will be a star in demand during 2021 with Egypt wanting him not only for World Cup and Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, but also the Olympic Games.

Liverpool sharpshooter Mohamed Salah will be a star in demand during 2021 with Egypt wanting him not only for World Cup and Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, but also the Olympic Games. The record seven-time African champions face between six and eight World Cup matches and two in the Cup of Nations as the continent plays catch-up after 2020 schedules were severely affected by the coronavirus. Qualifiers for the Olympics are permitted three over-age players in a tournament otherwise restricted to under-23 footballers and Salah tops the Egyptian wish list as they plan for Tokyo. Here, AFP Sport outlines what lies ahead for African football with a new Confederation of African Football (CAF) president set to be elected in March after incumbent Ahmad Ahmad was banned for five years by FIFA. World Cup Salah and fellow former African Footballer of the Year Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang will come face to face in Group F where Gabon are likely to pose the biggest threat to Egypt. Libya, who cannot play at home because of a violent struggle for political control of the oil-rich country, and off-form Angola are also in the section and only the team finishing first survive. African champions Algeria, Tunisia, Nigeria, Cameroon, Mali, Egypt, Ghana, Senegal, Morocco and the Democratic Republic of Congo are seeded to win the 10 groups and reach the two-leg final phase. Cup of Nations Among the last 10 champions, 2012 title-holders Zambia are in most danger of missing the 24-team tournament in Cameroon, which has been put back one year to the beginning of 2022 because of Covid-19. The Chipolopolo (Copper Bullets) are last in a group where defending champions Algeria have already qualified, Zimbabwe lie second and Botswana third. Zambia have lost three of four qualifiers and host Algeria and visit Zimbabwe during March as they try to avoid missing three consecutive Cup of Nations finals. Nations Championship Hosts Cameroon hope to emulate 2018 champions Morocco and win at home a 16-team competition reserved for footballers playing in their country of birth. It will be a tough task for the Cameroonians, though, after a change of coaches and disappointing warm-up results for the January 16-February 7 tournament. Qualifying was riddled with shocks and Algeria, Ghana, the Ivory Coast, Nigeria and Senegal were eliminated while former champions Tunisia withdrew after securing a place, citing fixture congestion. Olympic Games Africa has collected two gold, a silver and two bronze medals from the last seven Olympic Games football tournaments with Nigeria winning in 1996 and Cameroon emulating them four years later. Neither country will be in Tokyo, however, with Egypt, the Ivory Coast and South Africa the African representatives. It will be the 11th appearance by Egypt -- a record for an African nation -- and their best showings were finishing fourth at the 1928 Amsterdam and 1964 Tokyo Games. Champions League Al Ahly of Egypt will not only defend the Champions League title, but also face Renaissance Berkane of Morocco in the CAF Super Cup, and try to improve a poor FIFA Club World Cup record. The greatest threats to the Red Devils in the Champions League are likely to come from Cairo neighbours Zamalek, Casablanca clubs Raja and Wydad and Esperance Tunis. Ahly have regularly flopped in the Club World Cup, losing nine of 12 matches in five appearances, including a 5-1 trouncing by Mexicans Monterrey. Confederation Cup Berkane defeated expensively assembled Egyptian outfit Pyramids in the 2020 final and both look among the strongest contenders again. Etoile Sahel of Tunisia, the only club to win all five current and past CAF competitions, and 2015 Confederation Cup runners-up Orlando Pirates of South Africa could go far. Champions League last 32 losers join the African equivalent of the UEFA Europa League at the playoffs stage and they could include CS Sfaxien of Tunisia, winners of the Confederation Cup a record three times. CAF presidency Malagasy Ahmad was a hot favourites to secure a second term as CAF president until FIFA barred him from all football activities for five years. A FIFA statement said the 60 year old had "breached his duty of loyalty, offered gifts and other benefits, mismanaged funds and abused his position as the CAF president". With Ahmad sidelined, Ivorian Jacques Anouma, Mauritanian Ahmed Yahya, Senegalese Augustin Senghor and South African Patrice Motsepe will contest the election in Rabat on March 12. TV blackout Football followers in the many African countries where Johannesburg-based SuperSport provide coverage of CAF competitions will be hoping for the end of a blackout with the Nations Championship looming. CAF last year ended a $1 billion (815 million euros) contract with French company Lagardere, due to run until 2028, after a Cairo court said the agreement breached Egyptian competition rules. SuperSport, who screened matches along with Canal+ (French) and BeIN Sports (Arabic), said they could not continue as they had signed a contract with Lagardere.

Salah faces hectic 2021 with Egypt, CAF to elect new president

<p>New Zealand pacer Neil Wagner is being hailed as a hero after the Black Caps won the Boxing Day Test against Pakistan at the Bay Oval by 101 runs. Wagner defied all the odds and shrugged off the pain of two broken toes to help New Zealand win the first Test against Pakistan and become the number one ranked Test side in the world for the first time.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Wagner suffered fractures in two toes after a Shaheen Afridi yorker left him in pain during New Zealand’s first innings. However, Wagner took the field and bowled for his country to help them win the Test match in incredible fashion. Wagner finished the match with four wickets despite having two fractured toes in his right foot. The Kiwi was cleared to play by the medics given he could bear the pain of fractured toes – something which he did.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The foot they’re all talking about! <a href="https://twitter.com/NeilWagner13?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NeilWagner13</a> ran in today with a fractured toe, claiming 2-50 👏🏽<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NZvPAK?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NZvPAK</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CricketNation?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CricketNation</a> <a href="https://t.co/TRW7AwDop0">pic.twitter.com/TRW7AwDop0</a></p>
— BLACKCAPS (@BLACKCAPS) <a href="https://twitter.com/BLACKCAPS/status/1343468393375010818?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 28, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>Wagner dismissed a well-settled Fawad Alam for 102 during a marathon 11-over spell on the fifth day to put the hopes of Pakistan team of winning or drawing the match to bed. New Zealand ended up winning the Test by 101 runs with just 27 deliveries remaining from the close.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/new-zealand-pip-india-for-second-spot-in-icc-world-test-championship-points-table-353353" hreflang="en">New Zealand pip India for second spot in ICC World Test Championship points table</a></strong></p>

<p>"People talk about the size of his heart in terms of what he does on the cricket field, but to have a couple of broken toes, and he was in a lot of pain - I want to be careful here because he's probably going to listen to this (laughs) - but he was in a lot of pain," Williamson said after the end of the first Test against Pakistan. "He was going off and getting injections and numbing his foot. We tried to use him when the injection was taking effect. It was kind of unique for all of us.</p>

<p>"His appetite and motivation to be out there and try and make a difference for the team is huge. I think we haven't seen any bigger than the effort he put in across this Test match with a couple of broken toes. He just kept running in, and obviously, it had an impact on his ability to operate at 100% but he still came in and got the breakthrough like he does for us so often when he's at full strength. A very, very special effort from Wags, one that the team appreciated. We needed him out there, and he delivered."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/new-zealand-end-pakistan-defiance-for-thrilling-test-win-353315" hreflang="en">New Zealand end Pakistan defiance for thrilling Test win</a></strong></p>

<p>Pakistan captain Mohammad Rizwan also echoed Williamson’s views as he said his attitude sets him apart from others.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“I just told him he’s mad. He’s a different guy. His attitude is everything, his aggression is very beautiful,” Rizwan said.</p>

<h2>Here's how social media reacted to Neil Wagner shrugging off the pain to bowl for New Zealand:</h2>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Neil Wagner. There aren't enough words<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NZvPAK?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NZvPAK</a></p>
— Andrew McGlashan (@andymcg_cricket) <a href="https://twitter.com/andymcg_cricket/status/1344140323207798785?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 30, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Neil Wagner. 11 overs on the trot and with a fractured toe. 👏 (I hope it doesn't make it worse) but respect! Giving it his all. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NZvPak?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NZvPak</a></p>
— Naeemah Benjamin (@NaeemahBenjamin) <a href="https://twitter.com/NaeemahBenjamin/status/1344143073182445569?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 30, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Hats off to Neil Wagner.. Mann what a fighter he is.. With fractured toe he gave everything for his team.. Every team wants a fighter like him.. Salute man.. 🔥👏🙌👏<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NZvPAK?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NZvPAK</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/wagner?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#wagner</a></p>
— Aviral Rai (@cric_fan23) <a href="https://twitter.com/cric_fan23/status/1344158595567349760?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 30, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">And am speechless for Neil Wagner.. It's his 9th over on the trot after the tea break..He is bowling with a fractured toe.. What a dedication! Salute man👏👏❤️ <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NZvPAK?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NZvPAK</a></p>
— Debashish Sarangi (@Plumb_infront) <a href="https://twitter.com/Plumb_infront/status/1344137911269093376?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 30, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Neil Wagner is an absolute mad man. Fast bowlers find it difficult to bowl an 8 over spell, even when fit. This man has bowled an 8 over spell (and counting) with a broken foot. God knows what stuff is he made up of. Just hope he isn't out for long after this test.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NZvPAK?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NZvPAK</a></p>
— Gurkirat Singh Gill (@gurkiratsgill) <a href="https://twitter.com/gurkiratsgill/status/1344137566300225536?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 30, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">This guy Neil Wagner is a bowling machine, the way He runs in &amp; puts all his effort by banging the ball short &amp; with Marathon spells.</p>
— Mani 🇵🇰 (@TweetsMani14) <a href="https://twitter.com/TweetsMani14/status/1344134125733752832?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 30, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>Whereas Wagner said that he takes a lot of pride in pulling off something like this as he knows Test matches don’t come easy. The Kiwi speedster added that he never wants to sit on the sidelines and watch other people grind it out for the team.</p>

<p>"I do take a lot of pride in something like that," Wagner said about bowling through the pain. "But it comes down to the team. There's still a way of contributing for them. I wouldn't be wanting to sit on the side with my foot up and watching the boys doing the hard work out there, and I can't be there to help out. I feel I'll be left out, I have a bit of FOMO (Fear of Missing Out). Injuries happen and it's unlucky, but I can still walk, I can still do things, I can run. It's not going to stop me. It's sore and it's uncomfortable but it's just one of those things you have to deal with.</p>

<p>"Test matches don't come easy. Playing for your country is never anything you can take for granted. I know how bloody hard I had to work to get to where I am now and I'm sure as hell not going to sit on the side and watch other people do it. I want to be part of it and playing my part. Unless they carry me off on a stretcher, I'm going to try and do everything I can, I guess."</p>

<p>New Zealand will look to carry the winning momentum when they take the field for the second and final Test against Pakistan from January 3 at the Hagley Oval in Christchurch.&nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;</p>


New Zealand pacer Neil Wagner is being hailed as a hero after the Black Caps won the Boxing Day Test against Pakistan at the Bay Oval by 101 runs. Wagner defied all the odds and shrugged off the pain of two broken toes to help New Zealand win the first Test against Pakistan and become the number one ranked Test side in the world for the first time.

New Zealand pacer Neil Wagner is being hailed as a hero after the Black Caps won the Boxing Day Test against Pakistan at the Bay Oval by 101 runs. Wagner defied all the odds and shrugged off the pain of two broken toes to help New Zealand win the first Test against Pakistan and become the number one ranked Test side in the world for the first time. Wagner suffered fractures in two toes after a Shaheen Afridi yorker left him in pain during New Zealand’s first innings. However, Wagner took the field and bowled for his country to help them win the Test match in incredible fashion. Wagner finished the match with four wickets despite having two fractured toes in his right foot. The Kiwi was cleared to play by the medics given he could bear the pain of fractured toes – something which he did. The foot they’re all talking about! @NeilWagner13 ran in today with a fractured toe, claiming 2-50 👏🏽#NZvPAK #CricketNation pic.twitter.com/TRW7AwDop0 — BLACKCAPS (@BLACKCAPS) December 28, 2020 × Wagner dismissed a well-settled Fawad Alam for 102 during a marathon 11-over spell on the fifth day to put the hopes of Pakistan team of winning or drawing the match to bed. New Zealand ended up winning the Test by 101 runs with just 27 deliveries remaining from the close. ALSO READ: New Zealand pip India for second spot in ICC World Test Championship points table "People talk about the size of his heart in terms of what he does on the cricket field, but to have a couple of broken toes, and he was in a lot of pain - I want to be careful here because he's probably going to listen to this (laughs) - but he was in a lot of pain," Williamson said after the end of the first Test against Pakistan. "He was going off and getting injections and numbing his foot. We tried to use him when the injection was taking effect. It was kind of unique for all of us. "His appetite and motivation to be out there and try and make a difference for the team is huge. I think we haven't seen any bigger than the effort he put in across this Test match with a couple of broken toes. He just kept running in, and obviously, it had an impact on his ability to operate at 100% but he still came in and got the breakthrough like he does for us so often when he's at full strength. A very, very special effort from Wags, one that the team appreciated. We needed him out there, and he delivered." ALSO READ: New Zealand end Pakistan defiance for thrilling Test win Pakistan captain Mohammad Rizwan also echoed Williamson’s views as he said his attitude sets him apart from others. “I just told him he’s mad. He’s a different guy. His attitude is everything, his aggression is very beautiful,” Rizwan said. Here's how social media reacted to Neil Wagner shrugging off the pain to bowl for New Zealand: Neil Wagner. There aren't enough words#NZvPAK — Andrew McGlashan (@andymcg_cricket) December 30, 2020 × Neil Wagner. 11 overs on the trot and with a fractured toe. 👏 (I hope it doesn't make it worse) but respect! Giving it his all. #NZvPak — Naeemah Benjamin (@NaeemahBenjamin) December 30, 2020 × Hats off to Neil Wagner.. Mann what a fighter he is.. With fractured toe he gave everything for his team.. Every team wants a fighter like him.. Salute man.. 🔥👏🙌👏#NZvPAK#wagner — Aviral Rai (@cric_fan23) December 30, 2020 × And am speechless for Neil Wagner.. It's his 9th over on the trot after the tea break..He is bowling with a fractured toe.. What a dedication! Salute man👏👏❤️ #NZvPAK — Debashish Sarangi (@Plumb_infront) December 30, 2020 × Neil Wagner is an absolute mad man. Fast bowlers find it difficult to bowl an 8 over spell, even when fit. This man has bowled an 8 over spell (and counting) with a broken foot. God knows what stuff is he made up of. Just hope he isn't out for long after this test.#NZvPAK — Gurkirat Singh Gill (@gurkiratsgill) December 30, 2020 × This guy Neil Wagner is a bowling machine, the way He runs in & puts all his effort by banging the ball short & with Marathon spells. — Mani 🇵🇰 (@TweetsMani14) December 30, 2020 × Whereas Wagner said that he takes a lot of pride in pulling off something like this as he knows Test matches don’t come easy. The Kiwi speedster added that he never wants to sit on the sidelines and watch other people grind it out for the team. "I do take a lot of pride in something like that," Wagner said about bowling through the pain. "But it comes down to the team. There's still a way of contributing for them. I wouldn't be wanting to sit on the side with my foot up and watching the boys doing the hard work out there, and I can't be there to help out. I feel I'll be left out, I have a bit of FOMO (Fear of Missing Out). Injuries happen and it's unlucky, but I can still walk, I can still do things, I can run. It's not going to stop me. It's sore and it's uncomfortable but it's just one of those things you have to deal with. "Test matches don't come easy. Playing for your country is never anything you can take for granted. I know how bloody hard I had to work to get to where I am now and I'm sure as hell not going to sit on the side and watch other people do it. I want to be part of it and playing my part. Unless they carry me off on a stretcher, I'm going to try and do everything I can, I guess." New Zealand will look to carry the winning momentum when they take the field for the second and final Test against Pakistan from January 3 at the Hagley Oval in Christchurch.

'He's mad!' - New Zealand's Neil Wagner hailed as 'inspiration' for bowling with fractured toe

<p>The prestigious BNP Paribas Open tennis tournament in Indian Wells that was scheduled to be held in California in March has been postponed due to COVID-19 concerns, organisers said on Tuesday.</p>

<p>It marks the second consecutive year the dual ATP-WTA hardcourt event, which is often called the “fifth major” after the four Grand Slam tournaments, has been impacted by the virus as the 2020 edition was cancelled.</p>

<p>“The tournament is proactively working with the ATP and WTA Tours as well as title sponsor BNP Paribas to confirm dates later in the year to hold the event,” tournament organisers said in a statement.</p>

<p>“Details will be released in the near future as plans are finalised.”</p>

<p>The event, which next year was scheduled to be held March 8-21, attracts the game’s top players from both the men’s and women’s sides and in 2019 drew a record 475,000 fans over its two-week run.</p>

<p>The 2020 edition was the first major professional sporting event in the United States cancelled in wake of the coronavirus, on the eve of its scheduled start.</p>

<p>Men’s tennis governing body ATP also announced the 2021 Indian Wells postponement but said that all subsequent sections of the 2021 calendar, beginning with the spring clay-court season, remain unchanged at this time.</p>

<p>The start of the 2021 Australian Open, the year’s first Grand Slam, has already been delayed for three weeks until Feb. 8 due to the country’s strict border rules to curb the spread of the coronavirus.</p>


The prestigious BNP Paribas Open tennis tournament in Indian Wells that was scheduled to be held in California in March has been postponed due to COVID-19 concerns, organisers said on Tuesday.

The prestigious BNP Paribas Open tennis tournament in Indian Wells that was scheduled to be held in California in March has been postponed due to COVID-19 concerns, organisers said on Tuesday. It marks the second consecutive year the dual ATP-WTA hardcourt event, which is often called the “fifth major” after the four Grand Slam tournaments, has been impacted by the virus as the 2020 edition was cancelled. “The tournament is proactively working with the ATP and WTA Tours as well as title sponsor BNP Paribas to confirm dates later in the year to hold the event,” tournament organisers said in a statement. “Details will be released in the near future as plans are finalised.” The event, which next year was scheduled to be held March 8-21, attracts the game’s top players from both the men’s and women’s sides and in 2019 drew a record 475,000 fans over its two-week run. The 2020 edition was the first major professional sporting event in the United States cancelled in wake of the coronavirus, on the eve of its scheduled start. Men’s tennis governing body ATP also announced the 2021 Indian Wells postponement but said that all subsequent sections of the 2021 calendar, beginning with the spring clay-court season, remain unchanged at this time. The start of the 2021 Australian Open, the year’s first Grand Slam, has already been delayed for three weeks until Feb. 8 due to the country’s strict border rules to curb the spread of the coronavirus.

Indian Wells postponed due to COVID-19 concerns

<p>Concerns continue to grow for the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/premier-league">Premier League</a> after the English top-flight confirmed 18 positive COVID-19 cases in its latest round of testing. While the match between Everton and Manchester City was postponed due to COVID-19 outbreak withing the City squad, rest of the matches went ahead despite players and staff being tested positive for the dreaded virus.</p>

<p>West Bromwich Albion head coach Sam Allardyce has also revealed that the club had a positive coronavirus test this week while calling for ‘circuit-break’ to curb the rising cases within the English top-flight.</p>

<p>Moreover, the lower division leagues have been hit massively by COVID-19. The League One, in the 2020-21 season, witnessed 29 postponed matches, League Two 11 matches, Championship 4 matches and two matches in Premier League.</p>

<p><strong>TRENDING |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-lionel-messis-reaction-after-disappointing-draw-against-eibar-goes-viral-353378" hreflang="en">WATCH- Lionel Messi's reaction after disappointing draw against Eibar goes viral!</a></strong></p>

<p>The Premier League announced its highest number of positive cases on Tuesday since it began weekly testing in May, with 18 out of 1,479 tests coming back positive.</p>

<p>Reportedly, the Premier League match between Fulham and Tottenham Hotspur on Wednesday is also in doubt due to positive cases in Fulham squad.<br />
While there are no plans for the Premier League to pause the current season, Allardyce, speaking after West Brom's 5-0 home loss to Leeds United, said: "Everyone's safety is more important than anything else.</p>

<p>"When I listen to the news the variant virus transmits quicker than the original virus [so] we can only do the right thing which is have a circuit break.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/solskjaer-sees-man-utd-of-old-in-late-win-over-wolves-353320" hreflang="en">Solskjaer sees Man Utd of old in late win over Wolves</a></strong></p>

<p>"I am 66 years old and the last thing I want to do is catch Covid. I'm very concerned for myself and football in general. If that's what needs to be done we need to do it.</p>

<p>"We had one positive this week and it seems to be creeping around no matter how hard we try."</p>


Concerns continue to grow for the Premier League after the English top-flight confirmed 18 positive COVID-19 cases in its latest round of testing. While the match between Everton and Manchester City was postponed due to COVID-19 outbreak withing the City squad, rest of the matches went ahead despite players and staff being tested positive for the dreaded virus.

Concerns continue to grow for the Premier League after the English top-flight confirmed 18 positive COVID-19 cases in its latest round of testing. While the match between Everton and Manchester City was postponed due to COVID-19 outbreak withing the City squad, rest of the matches went ahead despite players and staff being tested positive for the dreaded virus. West Bromwich Albion head coach Sam Allardyce has also revealed that the club had a positive coronavirus test this week while calling for ‘circuit-break’ to curb the rising cases within the English top-flight. Moreover, the lower division leagues have been hit massively by COVID-19. The League One, in the 2020-21 season, witnessed 29 postponed matches, League Two 11 matches, Championship 4 matches and two matches in Premier League. TRENDING | WATCH- Lionel Messi's reaction after disappointing draw against Eibar goes viral! The Premier League announced its highest number of positive cases on Tuesday since it began weekly testing in May, with 18 out of 1,479 tests coming back positive. Reportedly, the Premier League match between Fulham and Tottenham Hotspur on Wednesday is also in doubt due to positive cases in Fulham squad. While there are no plans for the Premier League to pause the current season, Allardyce, speaking after West Brom's 5-0 home loss to Leeds United, said: "Everyone's safety is more important than anything else. "When I listen to the news the variant virus transmits quicker than the original virus [so] we can only do the right thing which is have a circuit break. ALSO READ: Solskjaer sees Man Utd of old in late win over Wolves "I am 66 years old and the last thing I want to do is catch Covid. I'm very concerned for myself and football in general. If that's what needs to be done we need to do it. "We had one positive this week and it seems to be creeping around no matter how hard we try."

'I'm very concerned...' - West Brom's Sam Allardyce calls for 'circuit-break' in Premier League

<p>India completed a memorable triumph in Melbourne as the visitors defeated Australia by eight wickets to equalise the four-match Test series 1-1. While there is still a sense of jubilation among fans, the captain of the Indian cricket team Ajinkya Rahane on Wednesday posted a heartfelt letter for all the fans for the support they have received after winning the Boxing Day Test.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Rahane, who is leading the Indian side in the absence of Virat Kohli, expressed his gratitude for all the love and support coming towards the Indian cricket team. Rahane further wrote that the biggest reward for the Indian cricket team has been the ability to put a smile on the faces of cricket lovers.&nbsp;<br />
The centurion in the MCG Test concluded by saying that the Indian cricket team continues to seek support and good wishes from everyone for the final two Test matches against Australia.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ajinkya-rahane-joins-ms-dhoni-in-a-rare-list-as-india-win-boxing-day-test-vs-australia-353117" hreflang="en">Ajinkya Rahane joins MS Dhoni in a rare list as India win Boxing Day Test vs Australia</a></strong></p>

<p>“I would like to express my gratitude for all the love and support we've received. The biggest reward for us as a team has been the ability to bring a smile on the faces of all those Indians that follow the sport,” Rahane posted on Twitter.</p>

<p>“We continue to seek your support and good wishes as we work hard for the next two matches,” the stand-in Indian skipper concluded.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Thank you 🙏 <a href="https://t.co/tJdduct5Pl">pic.twitter.com/tJdduct5Pl</a></p>
— Ajinkya Rahane (@ajinkyarahane88) <a href="https://twitter.com/ajinkyarahane88/status/1344213385211039750?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 30, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>India, after suffering humiliation in the Adelaide Test, showed immense character to bounce back and dominate Australia in the Boxing Day Test, played at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground. Rahane was one of the orchestrators of the memorable win as he led the side with a fantastic century in the first innings.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/couldnt-be-happier-for-jinks-virat-kohli-lauds-ajinkya-rahane-co-for-historic-win-in-boxing-day-test-353106" hreflang="en">'Couldn't be happier for Jinks' - Virat Kohli lauds Ajinkya Rahane &amp; Co. for historic win in Boxing Day Test</a></strong></p>

<p>Rahane’s aggressive captaincy and shrewd decision making was largely praised by pundits and former cricketers as India bounced back to level the series 1-1.&nbsp;</p>

<p>India and Australia will lock horns in the New Year’s Test at the Sydney Cricket Ground, scheduled to start from January 7.<br />
&nbsp;</p>


India completed a memorable triumph in Melbourne as the visitors defeated Australia by eight wickets to equalise the four-match Test series 1-1. While there is still a sense of jubilation among fans, the captain of the Indian cricket team Ajinkya Rahane on Wednesday posted a heartfelt letter for all the fans for the support they have received after winning the Boxing Day Test.

India completed a memorable triumph in Melbourne as the visitors defeated Australia by eight wickets to equalise the four-match Test series 1-1. While there is still a sense of jubilation among fans, the captain of the Indian cricket team Ajinkya Rahane on Wednesday posted a heartfelt letter for all the fans for the support they have received after winning the Boxing Day Test. Rahane, who is leading the Indian side in the absence of Virat Kohli, expressed his gratitude for all the love and support coming towards the Indian cricket team. Rahane further wrote that the biggest reward for the Indian cricket team has been the ability to put a smile on the faces of cricket lovers. The centurion in the MCG Test concluded by saying that the Indian cricket team continues to seek support and good wishes from everyone for the final two Test matches against Australia. ALSO READ: Ajinkya Rahane joins MS Dhoni in a rare list as India win Boxing Day Test vs Australia “I would like to express my gratitude for all the love and support we've received. The biggest reward for us as a team has been the ability to bring a smile on the faces of all those Indians that follow the sport,” Rahane posted on Twitter. “We continue to seek your support and good wishes as we work hard for the next two matches,” the stand-in Indian skipper concluded. Thank you 🙏 pic.twitter.com/tJdduct5Pl — Ajinkya Rahane (@ajinkyarahane88) December 30, 2020 × India, after suffering humiliation in the Adelaide Test, showed immense character to bounce back and dominate Australia in the Boxing Day Test, played at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground. Rahane was one of the orchestrators of the memorable win as he led the side with a fantastic century in the first innings. ALSO READ: 'Couldn't be happier for Jinks' - Virat Kohli lauds Ajinkya Rahane & Co. for historic win in Boxing Day Test Rahane’s aggressive captaincy and shrewd decision making was largely praised by pundits and former cricketers as India bounced back to level the series 1-1. India and Australia will lock horns in the New Year’s Test at the Sydney Cricket Ground, scheduled to start from January 7.

'The biggest reward for us...' - Ajinkya Rahane posts heartfelt message for fans after MCG triumph

<p>New Zealand on Wednesday pipped India for second spot in the ICC World Test Championship after the Kiwis defeated Pakistan by 101 runs in the Boxing Day Test on Wednesday. While Australia continue to lead the WTC points table, New Zealand now hold the second position with India slipping down to the third spot in the standings.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The rules of ICC World Test Championship were revised after it was hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic. According to the new structure, the ICC WTC standings are now determined using percentage of points garnered by the teams. Hence, India, despite having more points than Australia and New Zealand are sitting below the two sides in the ICC World Test Championship points table.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to the latest ICC World Test Championship points table, Australia have the best points percentage with 0.77 and New Zealand have 0.75 to their name. Whereas India have a points percentage of 0.72 followed by England at 0.61.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/david-warner-will-pucovski-return-to-australian-squad-vs-india-joe-burns-dropped-353343" hreflang="en">David Warner, Will Pucovski return to Australian squad vs India; Joe Burns dropped</a></strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">New Zealand keep themselves in contention of making it to the final of the ICC World Test Championship 🙌<br />
<br />
The <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WTC21?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WTC21</a> standings table after the first <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NZvPAK?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NZvPAK</a> Test 👇 <a href="https://t.co/IZnHHIPT0S">pic.twitter.com/IZnHHIPT0S</a></p>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1344177313152430083?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 30, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>The latest structure was adopted after many bilateral series, under the ICC World Test Championship, were postponed or cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.</p>

<p>According to the format of ICC WTC, a total of 120 points are up for grabs in a particular series. The points of the match are calculated on the basis of a number of matches in a series.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/icc-announces-decade-awards-from-kohli-smith-to-perry-heres-complete-list-of-winners-352996" hreflang="en">ICC announces Decade Awards: From Kohli, Smith to Perry - Here's complete list of winners</a></strong></p>

<p>With the final of ICC World Test Championship is scheduled to take place in July 2021 at the iconic Lord’s in England. However, there are still a few series to be played before the final as the participating teams gear up for a final push to play in the summit clash.&nbsp;</p>


New Zealand on Wednesday pipped India for second spot in the ICC World Test Championship after the Kiwis defeated Pakistan by 101 runs in the Boxing Day Test on Wednesday.

New Zealand on Wednesday pipped India for second spot in the ICC World Test Championship after the Kiwis defeated Pakistan by 101 runs in the Boxing Day Test on Wednesday. While Australia continue to lead the WTC points table, New Zealand now hold the second position with India slipping down to the third spot in the standings. The rules of ICC World Test Championship were revised after it was hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic. According to the new structure, the ICC WTC standings are now determined using percentage of points garnered by the teams. Hence, India, despite having more points than Australia and New Zealand are sitting below the two sides in the ICC World Test Championship points table. According to the latest ICC World Test Championship points table, Australia have the best points percentage with 0.77 and New Zealand have 0.75 to their name. Whereas India have a points percentage of 0.72 followed by England at 0.61. ALSO READ: David Warner, Will Pucovski return to Australian squad vs India; Joe Burns dropped New Zealand keep themselves in contention of making it to the final of the ICC World Test Championship 🙌 The #WTC21 standings table after the first #NZvPAK Test 👇 pic.twitter.com/IZnHHIPT0S — ICC (@ICC) December 30, 2020 × The latest structure was adopted after many bilateral series, under the ICC World Test Championship, were postponed or cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic. According to the format of ICC WTC, a total of 120 points are up for grabs in a particular series. The points of the match are calculated on the basis of a number of matches in a series. ALSO READ: ICC announces Decade Awards: From Kohli, Smith to Perry - Here's complete list of winners With the final of ICC World Test Championship is scheduled to take place in July 2021 at the iconic Lord’s in England. However, there are still a few series to be played before the final as the participating teams gear up for a final push to play in the summit clash.

New Zealand pip India for second spot in ICC World Test Championship points table

<p>Australia on Wednesday announced a strong 18-member squad for the third and fourth Tests against India as David Warner returned in the team for the hosts. The four-match Test series is firmly locked at 1-1 after India made a resounding comeback in the Boxing Day Test to equalise the series.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Warner and Will Pucovsi have been added in Australia’s Test squad with out-of-form opener Joe Burns dropped from the squad. Pacer Sean Abbott has also been declared fit for the remainder of the series and is one of the names in the 18-member squad.</p>

<p>Warner continues to recover from the groin injury and will replace Burns in the playing XI. Whereas Pucovski is in line to make his Test debut after suffering concussion while playing for Australia A against India earlier this month.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The 22-year-old will still be required to pass further tests before he is cleared to make a possible debut in Sydney.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t-natarajan-could-make-test-debut-in-third-test-vs-australia-as-umesh-yadav-suffers-calf-injury-353331" hreflang="en">T Natarajan could make Test debut in third Test vs Australia as Umesh Yadav suffers calf injury</a></strong></p>

<p>Should Pucovski make his Test debut in Sydney, Matthew Wade could be shifted to the middle order to replace out-of-form Travis Head in the playing XI.&nbsp;<br />
"Will is in the final stages of the graduated return to play protocols and has been symptom-free for some time," Australia’s selector Trevor Hohns said in a statement</p>

<p>"He will be fit to play in Sydney subject to completing the return to play protocols and an independent assessment.</p>

<p>"Joe Burns has been released from the squad and will return to the Brisbane Heat.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/shhhh-fans-urged-to-cheer-quietly-at-scg-amid-covid-outbreak-353325" hreflang="en">Shhhh! Fans urged to cheer quietly at SCG amid COVID outbreak</a></strong></p>

<p>"Unfortunately, Joe's returns haven't been what he or the selectors would like or what we consider he is capable of.</p>

<p>"David has made strong progress in his recovery from injury and will be given every chance to play in Sydney with another seven days until the match.</p>

<p>"Sean has fully recovered from a calf strain and is also available for selection."</p>

<p><strong>Australia Test squad:</strong> Tim Paine (c), Sean Abbott, Pat Cummins, Cameron Green, Marcus Harris, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Moises Henriques, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Michael Neser, James Pattinson, Will Pucovski, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, Mitchell Swepson, Matthew Wade, David Warner</p>

<p><strong>India Test squad:</strong> Virat Kohli (c) (first Test only), Ajinkya Rahane (vice-captain), Rohit Sharma, Mayank Agarwal, Prithvi Shaw, KL Rahul, Cheteshwar Pujara, Hanuma Vihari, Shubman Gill, Wriddhiman Saha (wk), Rishabh Pant (wk), Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, Umesh Yadav, Navdeep Saini, Kuldeep Yadav, Ravindra Jadeja, Ravichandran Ashwin, Mohammed Siraj<br />
&nbsp;</p>


Australia on Wednesday announced a strong 18-member squad for the third and fourth Tests against India as David Warner returned in the team for the hosts. The four-match Test series is firmly locked at 1-1 after India made a resounding comeback in the Boxing Day Test to equalise the series.

Australia on Wednesday announced a strong 18-member squad for the third and fourth Tests against India as David Warner returned in the team for the hosts. The four-match Test series is firmly locked at 1-1 after India made a resounding comeback in the Boxing Day Test to equalise the series. Warner and Will Pucovsi have been added in Australia’s Test squad with out-of-form opener Joe Burns dropped from the squad. Pacer Sean Abbott has also been declared fit for the remainder of the series and is one of the names in the 18-member squad. Warner continues to recover from the groin injury and will replace Burns in the playing XI. Whereas Pucovski is in line to make his Test debut after suffering concussion while playing for Australia A against India earlier this month. The 22-year-old will still be required to pass further tests before he is cleared to make a possible debut in Sydney. ALSO READ: T Natarajan could make Test debut in third Test vs Australia as Umesh Yadav suffers calf injury Should Pucovski make his Test debut in Sydney, Matthew Wade could be shifted to the middle order to replace out-of-form Travis Head in the playing XI. "Will is in the final stages of the graduated return to play protocols and has been symptom-free for some time," Australia’s selector Trevor Hohns said in a statement "He will be fit to play in Sydney subject to completing the return to play protocols and an independent assessment. "Joe Burns has been released from the squad and will return to the Brisbane Heat. ALSO READ: Shhhh! Fans urged to cheer quietly at SCG amid COVID outbreak "Unfortunately, Joe's returns haven't been what he or the selectors would like or what we consider he is capable of. "David has made strong progress in his recovery from injury and will be given every chance to play in Sydney with another seven days until the match. "Sean has fully recovered from a calf strain and is also available for selection." Australia Test squad: Tim Paine (c), Sean Abbott, Pat Cummins, Cameron Green, Marcus Harris, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Moises Henriques, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Michael Neser, James Pattinson, Will Pucovski, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, Mitchell Swepson, Matthew Wade, David Warner India Test squad: Virat Kohli (c) (first Test only), Ajinkya Rahane (vice-captain), Rohit Sharma, Mayank Agarwal, Prithvi Shaw, KL Rahul, Cheteshwar Pujara, Hanuma Vihari, Shubman Gill, Wriddhiman Saha (wk), Rishabh Pant (wk), Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, Umesh Yadav, Navdeep Saini, Kuldeep Yadav, Ravindra Jadeja, Ravichandran Ashwin, Mohammed Siraj

David Warner, Will Pucovski return to Australian squad vs India; Joe Burns dropped

<p>Indian pacer Thangarasu Natarajan’s stocks continue to rise sharply as the left-arm pacer is likely to make his Test debut for India in the third Test against Australia at the iconic Sydney Cricket Ground. Reportedly, T Natarajan has been added to the Indian Test squad after Umesh Yadav suffered a calf injury that is likely to keep him out of the New Year’s Test.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Natarajan came in the eyes of world cricket during the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 while playing for Sunrisers Hyderabad as the pacer impressed everyone with his sharp accuracy and ability to pick wickets.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Natarajan was rewarded with Team India debut during the recently concluded ODI and T20I series against Australia. Natarajan took two wickets in his ODI debut and six wickets in the three-match T20I series at a splendid economy of 6.91.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/shhhh-fans-urged-to-cheer-quietly-at-scg-amid-covid-outbreak-353325" hreflang="en">Shhhh! Fans urged to cheer quietly at SCG amid COVID outbreak</a></strong></p>

<p>With India looking to add variety in Umesh Yadav’s absence, Natarajan could get his Test debut ahead of Navdeep Saini.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The selectors had added Shardul Thakur (Mumbai paceman) as a replacement for Mohammed Shami (out with a fractured forearm), and there is Navdeep Saini too, but it's very much likely that Natrajan would be preferred given that he brings variation to the attack. Also, like&nbsp;Mitchell Starc does for Nathan Lyon, he would create footmarks which spinners Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja can exploit," a source told TOI on Sunday.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/new-zealand-end-pakistan-defiance-for-thrilling-test-win-353315" hreflang="en">New Zealand end Pakistan defiance for thrilling Test win</a></strong></p>

<p>India will also be boosted by the availability of Rohit Sharma after the veteran Indian batsmen completed his 14-day hard quarantine on Wednesday. However, it would be interesting to see whether the visitors will make any more change to a winning combination.</p>

<p>India and Australia will lock horns in the third Test at the SCG, starting from January 7.<br />
&nbsp;</p>


Indian pacer Thangarasu Natarajan’s stocks continue to rise sharply as the left-arm pacer is likely to make his Test debut for India in the third Test against Australia at the iconic Sydney Cricket Ground.

Indian pacer Thangarasu Natarajan’s stocks continue to rise sharply as the left-arm pacer is likely to make his Test debut for India in the third Test against Australia at the iconic Sydney Cricket Ground. Reportedly, T Natarajan has been added to the Indian Test squad after Umesh Yadav suffered a calf injury that is likely to keep him out of the New Year’s Test. Natarajan came in the eyes of world cricket during the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 while playing for Sunrisers Hyderabad as the pacer impressed everyone with his sharp accuracy and ability to pick wickets. Natarajan was rewarded with Team India debut during the recently concluded ODI and T20I series against Australia. Natarajan took two wickets in his ODI debut and six wickets in the three-match T20I series at a splendid economy of 6.91. ALSO READ: Shhhh! Fans urged to cheer quietly at SCG amid COVID outbreak With India looking to add variety in Umesh Yadav’s absence, Natarajan could get his Test debut ahead of Navdeep Saini. "The selectors had added Shardul Thakur (Mumbai paceman) as a replacement for Mohammed Shami (out with a fractured forearm), and there is Navdeep Saini too, but it's very much likely that Natrajan would be preferred given that he brings variation to the attack. Also, like Mitchell Starc does for Nathan Lyon, he would create footmarks which spinners Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja can exploit," a source told TOI on Sunday. ALSO READ: New Zealand end Pakistan defiance for thrilling Test win India will also be boosted by the availability of Rohit Sharma after the veteran Indian batsmen completed his 14-day hard quarantine on Wednesday. However, it would be interesting to see whether the visitors will make any more change to a winning combination. India and Australia will lock horns in the third Test at the SCG, starting from January 7.

T Natarajan could make Test debut in third Test vs Australia as Umesh Yadav suffers calf injury

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