Paris Saint-Germain will be playing for their Champions League lives against Manchester United on Wednesday, with last season's runners-up knowing the costs of group-stage elimination could be enormous on and off the field.

Anything less than victory at Old Trafford and the French champions could see their destiny slip out of their hands going into the last game in Group H.

Neymar's penalty gave the Qatar-owned club victory over RB Leipzig last week, but Thomas Tuchel's team performed poorly and the coach's agitation when searching questions are put to him by the press suggest all is not well in Paris.

PSG are top of Ligue 1, although their lead has been trimmed back in recent weeks following more disappointing displays.

"There is no way we can play like that in Manchester, like we did in the second half," Tuchel warned after Saturday's 2-2 draw with Bordeaux.

There will be potentially major consequences if they fail to qualify for the last 16 of the Champions League, something they have managed in each of the last eight seasons since becoming regulars in the competition again after the Qatari takeover.

Tuchel is out of contract after this season and sporting director Leonardo is not believed to be a huge fan of the German, even if he recently dismissed reports he was looking for a replacement.

"Honestly the club has never thought about another coach to replace Tuchel. Now is the time to concentrate on our objectives and to stick together," Leonardo said in a question and answer session with supporters.

Despite that, it is hard to imagine Tuchel surviving in the event of a European disaster, as being dumped out at the first hurdle would be a huge blow to PSG's prestige.

Over the last decade it has become almost impossible for such ignominy to befall one of Europe's super clubs, a category into which PSG now fit as the fifth-richest in the world according to Deloitte's Football Money League.

Barcelona have made it out of their group in every season since returning to the competition in 2004, while Real Madrid have got out of their group in every year since 1997.

Bayern Munich have done so in every year since 2008. Manchester City have already secured an eighth consecutive appearance in the last 16, Juventus a seventh.

<h2>- Financial repercussions -</h2>

After revelling in the team's run to the final in Lisbon, PSG's Qatari owners would not take kindly to such a sporting slap in the face.

Financially, the repercussions could be serious.

PSG are looking at ways of extending the contracts of Neymar and Kylian Mbappe, whose existing deals expire in 2022, but how can they in their current financial predicament?

Documents released in 2018 by Football Leaks showed Neymar's after-tax salary to be 30 million euros ($35.8m) a year while Mbappe's salary was due to rise to 11 million euros this year.

If PSG are prepared to offer whatever it takes to keep them, will they be able to invest in the other areas of the team that need upgrading?

They have been hamstrung by the coronavirus crisis, suffering huge losses from the decision to cut short the last French season.

RMC Sport recently reported that PSG were preparing for a loss of some 200 million euros this season, chiefly from lost gate receipts due to the pandemic.

A group-stage exit from the Champions League would only make things worse.

Just reaching the last 16 was worth 9.5 million euros last season, while reaching and winning the final was worth another 41.5 million euros, enough to cover the wages of Neymar and Mbappe for a year.

UEFA is set to reduce prize money over the next few years because of the impact of the health crisis, but PSG can ill afford to miss out on these sums. The stakes in Manchester will be high.

Paris Saint-Germain will be playing for their Champions League lives against Manchester United on Wednesday, with last season's runners-up knowing the costs of group-stage elimination could be enormous on and off the field.

Paris Saint-Germain will be playing for their Champions League lives against Manchester United on Wednesday, with last season's runners-up knowing the costs of group-stage elimination could be enormous on and off the field. Anything less than victory at Old Trafford and the French champions could see their destiny slip out of their hands going into the last game in Group H. Neymar's penalty gave the Qatar-owned club victory over RB Leipzig last week, but Thomas Tuchel's team performed poorly and the coach's agitation when searching questions are put to him by the press suggest all is not well in Paris. PSG are top of Ligue 1, although their lead has been trimmed back in recent weeks following more disappointing displays. "There is no way we can play like that in Manchester, like we did in the second half," Tuchel warned after Saturday's 2-2 draw with Bordeaux. There will be potentially major consequences if they fail to qualify for the last 16 of the Champions League, something they have managed in each of the last eight seasons since becoming regulars in the competition again after the Qatari takeover. Tuchel is out of contract after this season and sporting director Leonardo is not believed to be a huge fan of the German, even if he recently dismissed reports he was looking for a replacement. "Honestly the club has never thought about another coach to replace Tuchel. Now is the time to concentrate on our objectives and to stick together," Leonardo said in a question and answer session with supporters. Despite that, it is hard to imagine Tuchel surviving in the event of a European disaster, as being dumped out at the first hurdle would be a huge blow to PSG's prestige. Over the last decade it has become almost impossible for such ignominy to befall one of Europe's super clubs, a category into which PSG now fit as the fifth-richest in the world according to Deloitte's Football Money League. Barcelona have made it out of their group in every season since returning to the competition in 2004, while Real Madrid have got out of their group in every year since 1997. Bayern Munich have done so in every year since 2008. Manchester City have already secured an eighth consecutive appearance in the last 16, Juventus a seventh. - Financial repercussions - After revelling in the team's run to the final in Lisbon, PSG's Qatari owners would not take kindly to such a sporting slap in the face. Financially, the repercussions could be serious. PSG are looking at ways of extending the contracts of Neymar and Kylian Mbappe, whose existing deals expire in 2022, but how can they in their current financial predicament? Documents released in 2018 by Football Leaks showed Neymar's after-tax salary to be 30 million euros ($35.8m) a year while Mbappe's salary was due to rise to 11 million euros this year. If PSG are prepared to offer whatever it takes to keep them, will they be able to invest in the other areas of the team that need upgrading? They have been hamstrung by the coronavirus crisis, suffering huge losses from the decision to cut short the last French season. RMC Sport recently reported that PSG were preparing for a loss of some 200 million euros this season, chiefly from lost gate receipts due to the pandemic. A group-stage exit from the Champions League would only make things worse. Just reaching the last 16 was worth 9.5 million euros last season, while reaching and winning the final was worth another 41.5 million euros, enough to cover the wages of Neymar and Mbappe for a year. UEFA is set to reduce prize money over the next few years because of the impact of the health crisis, but PSG can ill afford to miss out on these sums. The stakes in Manchester will be high.

More than just prestige on the line for PSG in Champions League

Fulham climbed out of the Premier League relegation zone on Monday after finally solving their penalty woes in a shock 2-1 win at Leicester, while West Ham rode their luck to move into fifth place with a dramatic 2-1 victory against Aston Villa.

Scott Parker's side won for just the second time in the league this season thanks to Ademola Lookman's 30th minute opener and Ivan Cavaleiro's penalty eight minutes later.

Fulham had missed three of their four previous penalties this term, but Cavaleiro held his nerve to convert from the spot for the crucial second goal.

Harvey Barnes scored for Leicester in the 86th minute, but Fulham held on and move one point above the bottom three.

"Cav slipped last week and I'm not on Twitter or Instagram but I can only imagine what was being said, the jokes at his expense and Cav would have seen that," Parker said of Cavaleiro's recent penalty miss against Everton.

"I said to him: 'Are you ready to take one if we get it?' He looked at me dead in the eye and said: 'I'm ready'.

"The courage to step up there are the things we need. There's no denying there's relief. I've spoken to them about not letting defeats cripple us."

It was an emotional success for the Cottagers, with Lookman celebrating his goal by displaying one of Papa Bouba Diop's Senegal shirts after Fulham's former midfielder died aged 42 at the weekend.

"That was a decision we as a club made and the players were happy to do it. For someone to lose their life at a young age is tragic," Parker said.

Leicester would have gone second with a win, but instead they remain fourth -- three points behind leaders Tottenham -- after a second successive league defeat.

<h2>- Watkins woe -</h2>

At the London Stadium, West Ham earned a third successive victory after Villa striker Ollie Watkins missed a late penalty and then saw a stoppage-time equaliser disallowed by VAR.

West Ham got off to the perfect start in the second minute when Angelo Ogbonna made an astute run to the far post and rose above Matt Targett to head a corner past Emiliano Martinez.

Villa drew level in the 25th minute when Jack Grealish ran at the West Ham defence before letting rip with a 20-yard drive that took a slight deflection on its way past Lukasz Fabianski.

West Ham regained the lead in the 46th minute after an inspired substitution from David Moyes.

Moyes sent on Said Benrahma at half-time and with his first touch the winger chipped in a cross to Jarrod Bowen, who glanced a deft header over Villa keeper Emiliano Martinez for his fourth goal of the season.

Villa winger Trezeguet won a penalty in the 74th minute when Declan Rice tugged at his shirt to prevent him having a shot.

Watkins has been in fine form this season, but he let West Ham off the hook as his penalty hit the bar.

There was more misfortune to come for Watkins in the final moments when he swept home from close-range, only to see the goal chalked off for the narrowest of offside decisions.

"We got fortunate that in some way it was offside. I think we can play much better, but I'm taking tonight's result," Moyes said.

Frustrated Villa boss Dean Smith added: "We've missed a penalty and had a goal disallowed for a part of the body that can't put the ball in the net.

"The only reason Ollie Watkins' arm is out there is because he's fouled. He either scores or it's a penalty."

Smith was also angry that Grealish was called a cheat by one of West Ham's backroom staff.

"One of their members of staff called Jack Grealish a diver and a cheat. I spoke to David (Moyes) and he said he'd deal with it," Smith said.

Fulham climbed out of the Premier League relegation zone on Monday after finally solving their penalty woes in a shock 2-1 win at Leicester, while West Ham rode their luck to move into fifth place with a dramatic 2-1 victory against Aston Villa.

Fulham climbed out of the Premier League relegation zone on Monday after finally solving their penalty woes in a shock 2-1 win at Leicester, while West Ham rode their luck to move into fifth place with a dramatic 2-1 victory against Aston Villa. Scott Parker's side won for just the second time in the league this season thanks to Ademola Lookman's 30th minute opener and Ivan Cavaleiro's penalty eight minutes later. Fulham had missed three of their four previous penalties this term, but Cavaleiro held his nerve to convert from the spot for the crucial second goal. Harvey Barnes scored for Leicester in the 86th minute, but Fulham held on and move one point above the bottom three. "Cav slipped last week and I'm not on Twitter or Instagram but I can only imagine what was being said, the jokes at his expense and Cav would have seen that," Parker said of Cavaleiro's recent penalty miss against Everton. "I said to him: 'Are you ready to take one if we get it?' He looked at me dead in the eye and said: 'I'm ready'. "The courage to step up there are the things we need. There's no denying there's relief. I've spoken to them about not letting defeats cripple us." It was an emotional success for the Cottagers, with Lookman celebrating his goal by displaying one of Papa Bouba Diop's Senegal shirts after Fulham's former midfielder died aged 42 at the weekend. "That was a decision we as a club made and the players were happy to do it. For someone to lose their life at a young age is tragic," Parker said. Leicester would have gone second with a win, but instead they remain fourth -- three points behind leaders Tottenham -- after a second successive league defeat. - Watkins woe - At the London Stadium, West Ham earned a third successive victory after Villa striker Ollie Watkins missed a late penalty and then saw a stoppage-time equaliser disallowed by VAR. West Ham got off to the perfect start in the second minute when Angelo Ogbonna made an astute run to the far post and rose above Matt Targett to head a corner past Emiliano Martinez. Villa drew level in the 25th minute when Jack Grealish ran at the West Ham defence before letting rip with a 20-yard drive that took a slight deflection on its way past Lukasz Fabianski. West Ham regained the lead in the 46th minute after an inspired substitution from David Moyes. Moyes sent on Said Benrahma at half-time and with his first touch the winger chipped in a cross to Jarrod Bowen, who glanced a deft header over Villa keeper Emiliano Martinez for his fourth goal of the season. Villa winger Trezeguet won a penalty in the 74th minute when Declan Rice tugged at his shirt to prevent him having a shot. Watkins has been in fine form this season, but he let West Ham off the hook as his penalty hit the bar. There was more misfortune to come for Watkins in the final moments when he swept home from close-range, only to see the goal chalked off for the narrowest of offside decisions. "We got fortunate that in some way it was offside. I think we can play much better, but I'm taking tonight's result," Moyes said. Frustrated Villa boss Dean Smith added: "We've missed a penalty and had a goal disallowed for a part of the body that can't put the ball in the net. "The only reason Ollie Watkins' arm is out there is because he's fouled. He either scores or it's a penalty." Smith was also angry that Grealish was called a cheat by one of West Ham's backroom staff. "One of their members of staff called Jack Grealish a diver and a cheat. I spoke to David (Moyes) and he said he'd deal with it," Smith said.

Fulham shock Leicester to escape relegation zone, West Ham go fifth

Seven-times Formula One world champion Lewis Hamilton said he was devastated after testing positive for COVID-19 and being ruled out of Sunday’s penultimate race of the season in Bahrain.

It will be the first time the 35-year-old Mercedes driver has missed a race in an F1 career that started with McLaren in 2007.

The sport’s most successful driver of all time, with a record 95 wins and 98 pole positions, said on social media that he had tested negative three times in the past week but woke up on Monday with mild symptoms.

The Briton said he then requested another test which came back positive and he immediately started a 10-day self-isolation, ruling out the Sakhir Grand Prix and raising doubts about the Abu Dhabi finale on the following weekend.

“I’m gutted not to be able to race this weekend but my priority is to follow the protocols and advice to protect others,” he said.

“I’m really lucky that I feel OK with only mild symptoms and will do my best to stay fit and healthy.”

Hamilton said he and his team had taken all possible precautions and followed all regulations to stay safe since the season started.

Mercedes said he tested negative at the circuit on Sunday afternoon but he had been informed on Monday that “a contact prior to arrival in Bahrain had subsequently tested positive.”

The Briton wrapped up his record-equalling seventh title in Turkey last month and picked up his 11th win of the season in Bahrain on Sunday.

Mercedes have already won the constructors’ title for an unprecedented seventh year in a row.

Hamilton will not now be able to match the record for the most wins in a single season. Michael Schumacher and Sebastian Vettel share that mark with 13.

Hamilton was also on a record run of 48 successive points finishes and has started 265 races in a row.

<h2>REPLACEMENT DRIVER</h2>

Mercedes said they would announce a replacement driver for Sakhir in due course.

Belgian Stoffel Vandoorne, who races for the Mercedes Formula E team and had been scheduled to fly to Bahrain even before Hamilton’s positive result, and Mexican Esteban Gutierrez are the team’s reserve drivers.

Briton George Russell, who races for Mercedes-powered Williams, is also on their books.

Mercedes team boss Toto Wolff said in October that every precaution was being taken to shield Hamilton and team mate Valtteri Bottas from the pandemic, with internal debriefs and engineering meetings taking place via video call.

Hamilton has stayed in his motorhome at most circuits, with races confined to Europe before the final Middle Eastern triple-header, and returning to Monaco afterwards where physio Angela Cullen forms part of his protective ‘bubble’.

He posted video on Instagram on Nov. 22, a week after winning the title, of himself playing tennis with father Anthony, however.

Formula One has seen a clutch of high-profile COVID-19 cases, with Red Bull sporting director Jonathan Wheatley testing positive last week and Williams acting team principal Simon Roberts missing the Turkish Grand Prix.

Both Racing Point drivers, Sergio Perez and Lance Stroll, and team owner Lawrence Stroll tested positive earlier in the year.

Formula One started a shortened 17-race season in July after the Australian opener in March was cancelled when a McLaren employee tested positive.

The sport has strict rules in place to try to keep the novel coronavirus at bay. Personnel cannot access the paddock without a negative result and are tested every five days. Teams also do their own tests.

Seven-times Formula One world champion Lewis Hamilton said he was devastated after testing positive for COVID-19 and being ruled out of Sunday’s penultimate race of the season in Bahrain.

Seven-times Formula One world champion Lewis Hamilton said he was devastated after testing positive for COVID-19 and being ruled out of Sunday’s penultimate race of the season in Bahrain. It will be the first time the 35-year-old Mercedes driver has missed a race in an F1 career that started with McLaren in 2007. The sport’s most successful driver of all time, with a record 95 wins and 98 pole positions, said on social media that he had tested negative three times in the past week but woke up on Monday with mild symptoms. The Briton said he then requested another test which came back positive and he immediately started a 10-day self-isolation, ruling out the Sakhir Grand Prix and raising doubts about the Abu Dhabi finale on the following weekend. “I’m gutted not to be able to race this weekend but my priority is to follow the protocols and advice to protect others,” he said. “I’m really lucky that I feel OK with only mild symptoms and will do my best to stay fit and healthy.” Hamilton said he and his team had taken all possible precautions and followed all regulations to stay safe since the season started. Mercedes said he tested negative at the circuit on Sunday afternoon but he had been informed on Monday that “a contact prior to arrival in Bahrain had subsequently tested positive.” The Briton wrapped up his record-equalling seventh title in Turkey last month and picked up his 11th win of the season in Bahrain on Sunday. Mercedes have already won the constructors’ title for an unprecedented seventh year in a row. Hamilton will not now be able to match the record for the most wins in a single season. Michael Schumacher and Sebastian Vettel share that mark with 13. Hamilton was also on a record run of 48 successive points finishes and has started 265 races in a row. REPLACEMENT DRIVER Mercedes said they would announce a replacement driver for Sakhir in due course. Belgian Stoffel Vandoorne, who races for the Mercedes Formula E team and had been scheduled to fly to Bahrain even before Hamilton’s positive result, and Mexican Esteban Gutierrez are the team’s reserve drivers. Briton George Russell, who races for Mercedes-powered Williams, is also on their books. Mercedes team boss Toto Wolff said in October that every precaution was being taken to shield Hamilton and team mate Valtteri Bottas from the pandemic, with internal debriefs and engineering meetings taking place via video call. Hamilton has stayed in his motorhome at most circuits, with races confined to Europe before the final Middle Eastern triple-header, and returning to Monaco afterwards where physio Angela Cullen forms part of his protective ‘bubble’. He posted video on Instagram on Nov. 22, a week after winning the title, of himself playing tennis with father Anthony, however. Formula One has seen a clutch of high-profile COVID-19 cases, with Red Bull sporting director Jonathan Wheatley testing positive last week and Williams acting team principal Simon Roberts missing the Turkish Grand Prix. Both Racing Point drivers, Sergio Perez and Lance Stroll, and team owner Lawrence Stroll tested positive earlier in the year. Formula One started a shortened 17-race season in July after the Australian opener in March was cancelled when a McLaren employee tested positive. The sport has strict rules in place to try to keep the novel coronavirus at bay. Personnel cannot access the paddock without a negative result and are tested every five days. Teams also do their own tests.

Hamilton 'gutted' after positive COVID-19 test

International Olympic Committee President Thomas Bach is set to remain in office until 2025 as he will run unopposed next year for a second term, the IOC said on Tuesday.

Bach succeeded outgoing president Jacques Rogge in 2013 after prevailing over five other candidates in an election in Buenos Aires.

Presidents are limited to two terms in office under the rules of the Olympic body. The length of the first presidential term is eight years with re-election securing another four years in office.

“The members of the IOC were informed today... that President Thomas Bach will be the only candidate for the presidential election, which will be held during the 137th IOC Session in Athens in March 2021,” it said in a statement.

Bach is a German lawyer who won a gold medal in fencing at the 1976 Montreal Olympics.

An IOC member since 1991, he introduced a string of reforms in 2014 designed to reduce the cost and size of the Olympics, as potential host cities were scared away by the financial implications.

He also had to deal with the fallout of the 2014 Sochi Olympics doping scandal that led to the Olympic ban of Russia in 2018, and more recently had to postpone the 2020 Tokyo Olympics for a year due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

He has also ruled the IOC virtually unopposed, with the vast majority of decisions receiving unanimous support from the committee members, who currently number just over 100.

More than half of them became members during Bach’s presidency.

International Olympic Committee President Thomas Bach is set to remain in office until 2025 as he will run unopposed next year for a second term, the IOC said on Tuesday.

International Olympic Committee President Thomas Bach is set to remain in office until 2025 as he will run unopposed next year for a second term, the IOC said on Tuesday. Bach succeeded outgoing president Jacques Rogge in 2013 after prevailing over five other candidates in an election in Buenos Aires. Presidents are limited to two terms in office under the rules of the Olympic body. The length of the first presidential term is eight years with re-election securing another four years in office. “The members of the IOC were informed today... that President Thomas Bach will be the only candidate for the presidential election, which will be held during the 137th IOC Session in Athens in March 2021,” it said in a statement. Bach is a German lawyer who won a gold medal in fencing at the 1976 Montreal Olympics. An IOC member since 1991, he introduced a string of reforms in 2014 designed to reduce the cost and size of the Olympics, as potential host cities were scared away by the financial implications. He also had to deal with the fallout of the 2014 Sochi Olympics doping scandal that led to the Olympic ban of Russia in 2018, and more recently had to postpone the 2020 Tokyo Olympics for a year due to the COVID-19 pandemic. He has also ruled the IOC virtually unopposed, with the vast majority of decisions receiving unanimous support from the committee members, who currently number just over 100. More than half of them became members during Bach’s presidency.

IOC President Bach runs unopposed to stay on until 2025

South Africa are set to face England in the third and final T20I of the series at the Newlands, Cape Town on Tuesday. England have already won the series by clinching wins in the first two T20Is and will look to white-wash the series when they take the field on Tuesday.&nbsp;

England won the first match by five wickets while winning the second T20I by four wickets in what have been dominating display of cricket by the visitors.&nbsp;

South Africa would want to salvage some pride and end the T20I series with a win and enter the upcoming three-match ODI series with confidence. After the end of T20I series on Tuesday, England and South Africa will lock horns in the ODI series commencing from December 4.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/three-more-members-of-pakistan-team-test-positive-for-covid-19-as-nz-tour-hangs-in-balance-346744" hreflang="en">Three more members of Pakistan team test positive for COVID-19 as NZ tour hangs in balance</a>

The first match will be played in Cape Town before the action shifts to Paarl. Newlands, Cape Town will host the tour showdown on December 9.

England will look to rest some players and give fringe options game-time before heading into the ODI series.

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<h2>When will South Africa vs England 3rd T20I begin?</h2>

The South Africa vs England 3rd T20I will begin at 9:30 PM IST on December 1.&nbsp;

<h2>Where will South Africa vs England 3rd T20I be played?</h2>

The South Africa vs England 3rd T20I match will be held at the Newlands in Cape Town.

<h2>Which channel will telecast South Africa vs England 3rd T20I?</h2>

The South Africa vs England 3rd T20I will have a live telecast on Star Sports in India

<h2>How to watch the live streaming of South Africa vs England 3rd T20I?</h2>

The live streaming of South Africa vs England 3rd T20I will be available on Disney + Hotstar streaming platform.

South Africa are set to face England in the third and final T20I of the series at the Newlands, Cape Town on Tuesday. England have already won the series by clinching wins in the first two T20Is and will look to white-wash the series when they take the field on Tuesday.

South Africa are set to face England in the third and final T20I of the series at the Newlands, Cape Town on Tuesday. England have already won the series by clinching wins in the first two T20Is and will look to white-wash the series when they take the field on Tuesday. England won the first match by five wickets while winning the second T20I by four wickets in what have been dominating display of cricket by the visitors. South Africa would want to salvage some pride and end the T20I series with a win and enter the upcoming three-match ODI series with confidence. After the end of T20I series on Tuesday, England and South Africa will lock horns in the ODI series commencing from December 4. ALSO READ: Three more members of Pakistan team test positive for COVID-19 as NZ tour hangs in balance The first match will be played in Cape Town before the action shifts to Paarl. Newlands, Cape Town will host the tour showdown on December 9. England will look to rest some players and give fringe options game-time before heading into the ODI series. ALSO READ: Exclusive | Australia looking a cut above Indian team: John Buchanan When will South Africa vs England 3rd T20I begin? The South Africa vs England 3rd T20I will begin at 9:30 PM IST on December 1. Where will South Africa vs England 3rd T20I be played? The South Africa vs England 3rd T20I match will be held at the Newlands in Cape Town. Which channel will telecast South Africa vs England 3rd T20I? The South Africa vs England 3rd T20I will have a live telecast on Star Sports in India How to watch the live streaming of South Africa vs England 3rd T20I? The live streaming of South Africa vs England 3rd T20I will be available on Disney + Hotstar streaming platform.

SA vs ENG 3rd T20I Live Streaming: Where and how to watch South Africa vs England online?

In what comes as worrying news for Pakistan’s tour of New Zealand, three more members of the Pakistan cricket team have tested positive for COVID-19 in New Zealand, taking the total number of cases to 10. As many as 46 members of Pakistan’s visiting contingent were tested for COVID-19.

Pakistan are already on a final warning after breaching the strict quarantine restrictions with their training and preparations have also been affected with cases increasing. The Pakistan cricket team is in New Zealand for three T20Is and two Tests starting December 18.

The Pakistan team is not allowed to train until the Canterbury DHB medical officer of health determines they are satisfied that any training activities are unlikely to transmit COVID-19.

The 24-member Pakistan squad was affected early with the exclusion of Fakhar Zaman before the departure due to persistent fever. The players arrived in New Zealand on November 24 and were accompanied by 20 officials. They stayed put in a mandatory 14-day quarantine period at the Hilton Hotel.

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Earlier, New Zealand’s director-general of health Dr Ashley Bloomfield had lashed out at Pakistan for not respecting the protocols by the authorities.&nbsp;

"The team as a whole has been issued with a final warning. It is a privilege to come to New Zealand to play sport, but in return, teams must stick to the rules that are designed to keep COVID-19 out of our communities and keep our staff safe," said top health official Ashley Bloomfield.

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"Not being able to train is not a punishment, that was a requirement anyway for the first three days. Looking at Day 3 test results and CCTV footage, we will have to make a judgment on if or when they may be allowed to be exempt from the arrangement everyone else has to undertake, so they're allowed to break off in bubbles and train. I take a dim view of what we've seen already and we'll take it really seriously."&nbsp;

The names of the members of the Pakistan squad, who tested positive for COVID-19, were not revealed.

In what comes as worrying news for Pakistan’s tour of New Zealand, three more members of the Pakistan cricket team have tested positive for COVID-19 in New Zealand, taking the total number of cases to 10.

In what comes as worrying news for Pakistan’s tour of New Zealand, three more members of the Pakistan cricket team have tested positive for COVID-19 in New Zealand, taking the total number of cases to 10. As many as 46 members of Pakistan’s visiting contingent were tested for COVID-19. Pakistan are already on a final warning after breaching the strict quarantine restrictions with their training and preparations have also been affected with cases increasing. The Pakistan cricket team is in New Zealand for three T20Is and two Tests starting December 18. The Pakistan team is not allowed to train until the Canterbury DHB medical officer of health determines they are satisfied that any training activities are unlikely to transmit COVID-19. The 24-member Pakistan squad was affected early with the exclusion of Fakhar Zaman before the departure due to persistent fever. The players arrived in New Zealand on November 24 and were accompanied by 20 officials. They stayed put in a mandatory 14-day quarantine period at the Hilton Hotel. ALSO READ: Exclusive | Australia looking a cut above Indian team: John Buchanan Earlier, New Zealand’s director-general of health Dr Ashley Bloomfield had lashed out at Pakistan for not respecting the protocols by the authorities. "The team as a whole has been issued with a final warning. It is a privilege to come to New Zealand to play sport, but in return, teams must stick to the rules that are designed to keep COVID-19 out of our communities and keep our staff safe," said top health official Ashley Bloomfield. ALSO READ: Virat Kohli on verge of breaking major record held by Sachin Tendulkar "Not being able to train is not a punishment, that was a requirement anyway for the first three days. Looking at Day 3 test results and CCTV footage, we will have to make a judgment on if or when they may be allowed to be exempt from the arrangement everyone else has to undertake, so they're allowed to break off in bubbles and train. I take a dim view of what we've seen already and we'll take it really seriously." The names of the members of the Pakistan squad, who tested positive for COVID-19, were not revealed.

Three more members of Pakistan team test positive for COVID-19 as NZ tour hangs in balance

Bollywood actor Shah Rukh Khan continues to grow the Knight Riders brand globally as the owner of the Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise Kolkata Knight Riders gas expanded the franchise family by acquiring Los Angeles team for the forthcoming Major League Cricket (MLC) in the United States of America.

Reportedly, Knight Riders have now entered the United States of America market by buying the MLC franchise and will represent Knight Riders franchise. Major League Cricket has taken cue from the successful Major League Soccer (MLS) and is set to follow similar footstep by introducing USA’s first professional cricket T20 league.

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SRK’s latest team in MLC is set to be called LA Knight Riders.

“For several years now, we have been expanding the Knight Riders brand globally, and closely watching the potential for T20 cricket in the USA. We are convinced that Major League Cricket has all the pieces in place to execute on its plans and we look forward to making our partnership an enormous success in the coming years,” Shah Rukh Khan was quoted as saying in a statement as per Mumbai Mirror.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/aaron-finch-names-3-players-who-can-replace-david-warner-in-3rd-odi-vs-india-346640" hreflang="en">Aaron Finch names 3 players who can replace David Warner in 3rd ODI vs India</a> 
 
The Major League Cricket will be a six-team tournament in the US where Los Angeles, New York, San Francisco, Washington DC, Chicago and Dallas will participate in the inaugural edition of the tournament.&nbsp;

Venky Mysore, who is the Kolkata Knight Riders and Red Chillies Entertainment CEO asserted that the franchise owners are gearing up for the fresh&nbsp;

Bollywood actor Shah Rukh Khan continues to grow the Knight Riders brand globally as the owner of the Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise Kolkata Knight Riders gas expanded the franchise family by acquiring Los Angeles team for the forthcoming Major League Cricket (MLC) in the United States of America.

Bollywood actor Shah Rukh Khan continues to grow the Knight Riders brand globally as the owner of the Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise Kolkata Knight Riders gas expanded the franchise family by acquiring Los Angeles team for the forthcoming Major League Cricket (MLC) in the United States of America. Reportedly, Knight Riders have now entered the United States of America market by buying the MLC franchise and will represent Knight Riders franchise. Major League Cricket has taken cue from the successful Major League Soccer (MLS) and is set to follow similar footstep by introducing USA’s first professional cricket T20 league. ALSO READ: Exclusive | Australia looking a cut above Indian team: John Buchanan SRK’s latest team in MLC is set to be called LA Knight Riders. “For several years now, we have been expanding the Knight Riders brand globally, and closely watching the potential for T20 cricket in the USA. We are convinced that Major League Cricket has all the pieces in place to execute on its plans and we look forward to making our partnership an enormous success in the coming years,” Shah Rukh Khan was quoted as saying in a statement as per Mumbai Mirror. ALSO READ: Aaron Finch names 3 players who can replace David Warner in 3rd ODI vs India The Major League Cricket will be a six-team tournament in the US where Los Angeles, New York, San Francisco, Washington DC, Chicago and Dallas will participate in the inaugural edition of the tournament. Venky Mysore, who is the Kolkata Knight Riders and Red Chillies Entertainment CEO asserted that the franchise owners are gearing up for the fresh

Cricket in Hollywood: Shah Rukh Khan-owned Knight Riders buy Los Angeles franchise for MLC

The Australian cricket team left no stone unturned to dominate the ODI series against India to kick-start the two-month-long and gruelling tour with a stamp of authority. In 2018-19 ODI series, India came out victorious 2-1 by winning the last two matches but Australia, this time, has come out all out blazing from the word go.&nbsp;

India and Australia will next lock horns in a three-match T20I series and four-match Test series, in which Indian skipper Virat Kohli will not be available after the first Test, and Rohit Sharma’s availability and status are still up in the thin air. While Australia look&nbsp;a well-polished and confident side, India have clearly lacked the usual aggression, which made them one of the most consistent sides.&nbsp;

<img alt="India-Australia" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="61e470db-3763-4185-92ea-2e24e61b52a4" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_8W4848.jpg" />

Former head coach of Australia John Buchanan, in an exclusive interaction with WION’s Subhayan Chakraborty, looked at the bold start made by the Aaron Finch-led Australian team while also talking about the upcoming Test series and whether the Indian cricket team can defy the odds in what is regarded as one of the most high-profile Test battles in the cricketing world.&nbsp;

IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/ind-vs-aus-fans-return-to-stadium-for-first-time-in-eight-months-345944" hreflang="en">IND vs AUS: Fans return to stadium for first time in eight months</a>

Australia blew away India with thumping 66 and 51-run wins in the first two ODI of the series. Right from the word ‘play’, the hosts looked ready for the battle – exactly opposite to how the touring party looked. The Aussie batsmen hammered the Indian bowlers all over the park whereas the troika of Hazlewood-Cummins-Starc along with Adam Zampa made life hard for the Indian batsmen, who is both the first two ODIs failed to match the form and collectiveness of their opposition.&nbsp;

“It is a great start by the Australian team. The batsmen knew their plans and executed them well without overthinking. Some of the shots the Australian batsmen have played show how clear they are about their plans and to this against a good Indian bowling attack is a great achievement. On the other hand, the Indian bowling attack is suddenly looking weak. Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Shami are great bowlers but they haven’t fired well together. Same with the spinners,” Buchanan told WION.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-marnus-labuschagne-thriving-to-be-the-best-316956" hreflang="en">Exclusive | Marnus Labuschagne: Thriving to be the best</a>

<img alt="India-Australia" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b967588c-04e5-436f-9fb8-836cbda9661a" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_8W46Y7.jpg" />

With the limited-overs series working as a curtain-raiser for the much-awaited Test series, the Indian team would look to gain their confidence back. Question marks have been raised on the Indian bowling attack, which was hailed the last time India visited Australia in 2018-19.

And without Ishant Sharma and his experience, it could be too much to do for Bumrah and Shami unless the visitors find another hero. Plenty of eyes will be on the likes of Ravichandran Ashwin and Kuldeep Yadav if he gets a chance but Buchanan is not too confident about this Indian bowling attack doing too well in the Border-Gavaskar series.

“The Indian bowling attack is looking a bit rusty. It could be the IPL effect but in a major series like this, you have to be at your prime mentally and physically. But sometimes we are hard on these players. The bio-secure bubbles, so many restrictions due to coronavirus; these things take a toll on you slowly. We don’t see it from our television sets but it gradually affects the performance of players. Having said that, the Indian attack is looking a bit jaded,” Buchanan, who coached Australia from 1999 to 2007 opined.

<img alt="John Buchanan" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="09c7f41a-e571-4d81-b426-d4bf27d63598" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_Del70160.jpg" />&nbsp;

There are some reports saying Rohit Sharma is likely to be available for the last two Tests against Australia as he has recovered from his hamstring injury and is ready to take the load of Test cricket.

However, India will be without Virat Kohli, after the Adelaide Test, as the visitors will go into the remaining three Tests without their talismanic captain and arguably the greatest batsman of this era.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-australia-vs-india-series-close-to-ashes-josh-hazlewood-316458" hreflang="en">Exclusive | Australia vs India series close to Ashes: Josh Hazlewood</a>

“Virat Kohli’s absence is a great deal and I think it can be the difference in the Test series. Not only his absence on the field but off it as well. He is the one who passes on the confidence and pump. For Rohit Sharma, if he is there then it will be a big boost for India. Since the last few years, Kohli and Rohit have determined how India play on the field and if they both are absent then it is a major headache for India,” the Queensland Sport Hall of Famer said.

After the ODI series, India will commence their three-match T20I series from Friday (December 4) before taking on Australia for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy from December 17.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

The Australian cricket team left no stone unturned to dominate the ODI series against India to kick-start the two-month-long and gruelling tour with a stamp of authority.

The Australian cricket team left no stone unturned to dominate the ODI series against India to kick-start the two-month-long and gruelling tour with a stamp of authority. In 2018-19 ODI series, India came out victorious 2-1 by winning the last two matches but Australia, this time, has come out all out blazing from the word go. India and Australia will next lock horns in a three-match T20I series and four-match Test series, in which Indian skipper Virat Kohli will not be available after the first Test, and Rohit Sharma’s availability and status are still up in the thin air. While Australia look a well-polished and confident side, India have clearly lacked the usual aggression, which made them one of the most consistent sides. Former head coach of Australia John Buchanan, in an exclusive interaction with WION’s Subhayan Chakraborty, looked at the bold start made by the Aaron Finch-led Australian team while also talking about the upcoming Test series and whether the Indian cricket team can defy the odds in what is regarded as one of the most high-profile Test battles in the cricketing world. IN PICS | IND vs AUS: Fans return to stadium for first time in eight months Australia blew away India with thumping 66 and 51-run wins in the first two ODI of the series. Right from the word ‘play’, the hosts looked ready for the battle – exactly opposite to how the touring party looked. The Aussie batsmen hammered the Indian bowlers all over the park whereas the troika of Hazlewood-Cummins-Starc along with Adam Zampa made life hard for the Indian batsmen, who is both the first two ODIs failed to match the form and collectiveness of their opposition. “It is a great start by the Australian team. The batsmen knew their plans and executed them well without overthinking. Some of the shots the Australian batsmen have played show how clear they are about their plans and to this against a good Indian bowling attack is a great achievement. On the other hand, the Indian bowling attack is suddenly looking weak. Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Shami are great bowlers but they haven’t fired well together. Same with the spinners,” Buchanan told WION. ALSO READ: Exclusive | Marnus Labuschagne: Thriving to be the best With the limited-overs series working as a curtain-raiser for the much-awaited Test series, the Indian team would look to gain their confidence back. Question marks have been raised on the Indian bowling attack, which was hailed the last time India visited Australia in 2018-19. And without Ishant Sharma and his experience, it could be too much to do for Bumrah and Shami unless the visitors find another hero. Plenty of eyes will be on the likes of Ravichandran Ashwin and Kuldeep Yadav if he gets a chance but Buchanan is not too confident about this Indian bowling attack doing too well in the Border-Gavaskar series. “The Indian bowling attack is looking a bit rusty. It could be the IPL effect but in a major series like this, you have to be at your prime mentally and physically. But sometimes we are hard on these players. The bio-secure bubbles, so many restrictions due to coronavirus; these things take a toll on you slowly. We don’t see it from our television sets but it gradually affects the performance of players. Having said that, the Indian attack is looking a bit jaded,” Buchanan, who coached Australia from 1999 to 2007 opined. There are some reports saying Rohit Sharma is likely to be available for the last two Tests against Australia as he has recovered from his hamstring injury and is ready to take the load of Test cricket. However, India will be without Virat Kohli, after the Adelaide Test, as the visitors will go into the remaining three Tests without their talismanic captain and arguably the greatest batsman of this era. ALSO READ: Exclusive | Australia vs India series close to Ashes: Josh Hazlewood “Virat Kohli’s absence is a great deal and I think it can be the difference in the Test series. Not only his absence on the field but off it as well. He is the one who passes on the confidence and pump. For Rohit Sharma, if he is there then it will be a big boost for India. Since the last few years, Kohli and Rohit have determined how India play on the field and if they both are absent then it is a major headache for India,” the Queensland Sport Hall of Famer said. After the ODI series, India will commence their three-match T20I series from Friday (December 4) before taking on Australia for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy from December 17.

Exclusive | Australia looking a cut above Indian team: John Buchanan

The Indian cricket team would look to avoid a white-wash in the ODI series when they take the field for the third and final ODI against Australia at Manuka Oval in Canberra on Wednesday. While the Men in ‘retro’ Blue will look to end the 50-over affair on a high, Indian skipper Virat Kohli would be looking to register yet another record. <o:p></o:p>

Kohli, regarded as one of the greatest, is just 23 runs away from breaking Sachin Tendulkar’s record of being the fastest to 12,000 ODI runs in ODI cricket.

Kohli has been on a record-breaking spree from past few years now with consistency which could only be admired. Such is his calibre that India were hopeful of getting close to the mammoth 390-run target set by Australia till the time Kohli was in the crease. The Indian skipper perished after a fighting 89-run knock in the second ODI, which Australia won by 51 runs.<o:p></o:p>

Tendulkar holds the record for being the fastest to 12,000 ODI runs in 300 innings. Whereas Kohli has 11,977 runs in 250 ODIs and is just 23 runs away from beating yet another record held by Tendulkar.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/aaron-finch-names-3-players-who-can-replace-david-warner-in-3rd-odi-vs-india-346640" hreflang="en">Aaron Finch names 3 players who can replace David Warner in 3rd ODI vs India</a>

<o:p><img alt="Virat Kohli" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="37b79a81-6514-4268-adfb-b9e839821f93" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_8W486H.jpg" /></o:p>

<h2 class="MsoNormal">Fastest cricketer to score 12,000 runs in ODIs:<o:p></o:p></h2>

<ul>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Sachin Tendukar - 309 matches, 300 innings<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Ricky Ponting - 323 matches, 314 innings<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Kumar Sangakkara - 359 matches, 336 innings <o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Sanath Jayasuriya - 390 matches, 379 innings<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Mahela Jayawardene - 426 matches, 399 innings</li>
</ul>

IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/ind-vs-aus-fans-return-to-stadium-for-first-time-in-eight-months-345944" hreflang="en">IND vs AUS: Fans return to stadium for first time in eight months</a>

Kohli will look to end the ODI series on a high, by guiding India to a confidence-boosting win at the Manuka Oval on Wednesday. The three-match T20I series is set to commence from December 4 (Friday).<o:p></o:p>

The Indian cricket team would look to avoid a white-wash in the ODI series when they take the field for the third and final ODI against Australia at Manuka Oval in Canberra on Wednesday.

The Indian cricket team would look to avoid a white-wash in the ODI series when they take the field for the third and final ODI against Australia at Manuka Oval in Canberra on Wednesday. While the Men in ‘retro’ Blue will look to end the 50-over affair on a high, Indian skipper Virat Kohli would be looking to register yet another record. Kohli, regarded as one of the greatest, is just 23 runs away from breaking Sachin Tendulkar’s record of being the fastest to 12,000 ODI runs in ODI cricket. Kohli has been on a record-breaking spree from past few years now with consistency which could only be admired. Such is his calibre that India were hopeful of getting close to the mammoth 390-run target set by Australia till the time Kohli was in the crease. The Indian skipper perished after a fighting 89-run knock in the second ODI, which Australia won by 51 runs. Tendulkar holds the record for being the fastest to 12,000 ODI runs in 300 innings. Whereas Kohli has 11,977 runs in 250 ODIs and is just 23 runs away from beating yet another record held by Tendulkar. ALSO READ: Aaron Finch names 3 players who can replace David Warner in 3rd ODI vs India Fastest cricketer to score 12,000 runs in ODIs: Sachin Tendukar - 309 matches, 300 innings Ricky Ponting - 323 matches, 314 innings Kumar Sangakkara - 359 matches, 336 innings Sanath Jayasuriya - 390 matches, 379 innings Mahela Jayawardene - 426 matches, 399 innings IN PICS | IND vs AUS: Fans return to stadium for first time in eight months Kohli will look to end the ODI series on a high, by guiding India to a confidence-boosting win at the Manuka Oval on Wednesday. The three-match T20I series is set to commence from December 4 (Friday).

Virat Kohli on verge of breaking major record held by Sachin Tendulkar

Sportswashing, a player awash with cash and a country's unlikely hero feature in AFP Sport's golf talking points this week:

<h2>- Casey's Saudi flip -</h2>

Paul Casey's decision to play in Saudi Arabia next year has laid him open to charges of hypocrisy after he previously shunned the country over its poor human rights record.

World number one and Masters champion Dustin Johnson will tee up in February's European Tour event in Saudi Arabia alongside US Open champion Bryson DeChambeau, Open champion Shane Lowry and other global stars such as Patrick Reed, Justin Rose, Tommy Fleetwood and Phil Mickelson.

But the big surprise among the 2021 Saudi International entries was England's former world number three Casey, who pointedly refused to play when the tournament began in 2019.&nbsp;

His stance was echoed by Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy, who both turned down reported $3 million appearance fees. "I just don't want to go," said McIlroy at the time, calling it "a morality issue".

Saudi Arabia has hosted a number of high-profile events recently and will hold its first Formula One grand prix next year, bringing accusations of "sportswashing" -- using sport to divert attention away from human rights issues.&nbsp;

Casey, a UNICEF ambassador, told the UK's Independent newspaper in January 2019 that he "would be a hypocrite" if he accepted Saudi appearance money.

But this week the world number 23 defended his U-turn. "This is not a decision I've taken lightly," Casey said in a statement.&nbsp;

"I wasn't comfortable going in the past, but I have always been open-minded and willing to learn. I believe sport has the power to effect change."&nbsp;

<h2>- Johnson's golden 2020&nbsp;-</h2>

Dustin Johnson has pulled out of this week's Mayakoba Classic, the final US PGA Tour event of 2020, meaning a strange but highly successful playing year has come to an end.

The world number one endured some bizarre ups and downs after the sport returned from shutdown in June.

He was forced to sit out two big-purse events after contracting Covid-19, and posted back-to-back rounds of 80 for the first time in his career, but also became FedEx Cup champion and won a small matter of four times -- including the Tour Championship and his first Masters at Augusta, his second major title.

Johnson's tournament winnings since June alone were $8.95 million, and once you throw in the $15 million bonus he received for winning the Tour Championship and FedEx Cup at East Lake in September his on-course earnings soar to an eye-watering $23.95 million in five months.

Most important of all, though, he now has a new green jacket.

<h2>- Pole in Olympic position &nbsp;-</h2>

Christiaan Bezuidenhout won his second European Tour event in South Africa at the weekend but a man who came tied second made almost as many headlines.

Adrian Meronk was bidding to become the first Pole to win on the European tour, and although the 6ft 6in rookie came up short after leading going into Sunday's final round, the 27-year-old has now set his sights on qualifying for next year's Olympics.

That would be some achievement, coming from a country that only has an estimated few thousand golfers in a population of almost 40 million -- a legacy of the days of Soviet control where the sport was frowned upon.

European and US PGA tour events were not even shown on Polish television until two years ago.

"There has been a lot of growth in playing numbers this year in Poland," Meronk told Golf Digest.&nbsp;

"Because of the virus, people have been looking for things to do outdoors. And golf has benefited. New courses are being built.&nbsp;

"If I was to win on the European Tour, it would be huge for golf in Poland. So would making it to the Olympics. I'm in right now through my world ranking," said the world number 195.&nbsp;

"If I was to do well in that, golf would get a lot of publicity."

<h2>- World rankings -</h2>

Top 10s, week beginning November 30, 2020:

Men

1. Dustin Johnson (USA) 13.06

2. Jon Rahm (ESP) 10.42

3. Justin Thomas (USA) 9.62

4. Rory McIlroy (NIR) 7.57

5. Bryson DeChambeau (USA) 7.38 (+1)

6. Webb Simpson (USA) 7.30 (+1)

7. Xander Schauffele (USA) 7.24 (+1)&nbsp;

8. Collin Morikawa (USA) 7.24 (-3)&nbsp;

9. Patrick Cantlay (USA) 6.47&nbsp;

10. Tyrrell Hatton (ENG) 6.27

Women

1. Ko Jin-young (KOR) 7.79&nbsp;

2. Kim Sei-young (KOR) 7.38&nbsp;

3. Nelly Korda (USA) 6.59&nbsp;

4. Danielle Kang (USA) 6.40&nbsp;

5. Park In-bee (KOR) 6.18&nbsp;

6. Brooke Henderson (CAN) 5.81&nbsp;

7. Nasa Hataoka (JPN) 5.71

8. Minjee Lee (AUS) 5.25&nbsp;

9. Park Sung-hyun (KOR) 4.99&nbsp;

10. Kim Hyo-joo (KOR) 4.90

Sportswashing, a player awash with cash and a country's unlikely hero feature in AFP Sport's golf talking points this week: - Casey's Saudi flip - Paul Casey's decision to play in Saudi Arabia next year has laid him open to charges of hypocrisy after he previously shunned the country over its poor human rights record.

Sportswashing, a player awash with cash and a country's unlikely hero feature in AFP Sport's golf talking points this week: - Casey's Saudi flip - Paul Casey's decision to play in Saudi Arabia next year has laid him open to charges of hypocrisy after he previously shunned the country over its poor human rights record. World number one and Masters champion Dustin Johnson will tee up in February's European Tour event in Saudi Arabia alongside US Open champion Bryson DeChambeau, Open champion Shane Lowry and other global stars such as Patrick Reed, Justin Rose, Tommy Fleetwood and Phil Mickelson. But the big surprise among the 2021 Saudi International entries was England's former world number three Casey, who pointedly refused to play when the tournament began in 2019. His stance was echoed by Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy, who both turned down reported $3 million appearance fees. "I just don't want to go," said McIlroy at the time, calling it "a morality issue". Saudi Arabia has hosted a number of high-profile events recently and will hold its first Formula One grand prix next year, bringing accusations of "sportswashing" -- using sport to divert attention away from human rights issues. Casey, a UNICEF ambassador, told the UK's Independent newspaper in January 2019 that he "would be a hypocrite" if he accepted Saudi appearance money. But this week the world number 23 defended his U-turn. "This is not a decision I've taken lightly," Casey said in a statement. "I wasn't comfortable going in the past, but I have always been open-minded and willing to learn. I believe sport has the power to effect change." - Johnson's golden 2020 - Dustin Johnson has pulled out of this week's Mayakoba Classic, the final US PGA Tour event of 2020, meaning a strange but highly successful playing year has come to an end. The world number one endured some bizarre ups and downs after the sport returned from shutdown in June. He was forced to sit out two big-purse events after contracting Covid-19, and posted back-to-back rounds of 80 for the first time in his career, but also became FedEx Cup champion and won a small matter of four times -- including the Tour Championship and his first Masters at Augusta, his second major title. Johnson's tournament winnings since June alone were $8.95 million, and once you throw in the $15 million bonus he received for winning the Tour Championship and FedEx Cup at East Lake in September his on-course earnings soar to an eye-watering $23.95 million in five months. Most important of all, though, he now has a new green jacket. - Pole in Olympic position - Christiaan Bezuidenhout won his second European Tour event in South Africa at the weekend but a man who came tied second made almost as many headlines. Adrian Meronk was bidding to become the first Pole to win on the European tour, and although the 6ft 6in rookie came up short after leading going into Sunday's final round, the 27-year-old has now set his sights on qualifying for next year's Olympics. That would be some achievement, coming from a country that only has an estimated few thousand golfers in a population of almost 40 million -- a legacy of the days of Soviet control where the sport was frowned upon. European and US PGA tour events were not even shown on Polish television until two years ago. "There has been a lot of growth in playing numbers this year in Poland," Meronk told Golf Digest. "Because of the virus, people have been looking for things to do outdoors. And golf has benefited. New courses are being built. "If I was to win on the European Tour, it would be huge for golf in Poland. So would making it to the Olympics. I'm in right now through my world ranking," said the world number 195. "If I was to do well in that, golf would get a lot of publicity." - World rankings - Top 10s, week beginning November 30, 2020: Men 1. Dustin Johnson (USA) 13.06 2. Jon Rahm (ESP) 10.42 3. Justin Thomas (USA) 9.62 4. Rory McIlroy (NIR) 7.57 5. Bryson DeChambeau (USA) 7.38 (+1) 6. Webb Simpson (USA) 7.30 (+1) 7. Xander Schauffele (USA) 7.24 (+1) 8. Collin Morikawa (USA) 7.24 (-3) 9. Patrick Cantlay (USA) 6.47 10. Tyrrell Hatton (ENG) 6.27 Women 1. Ko Jin-young (KOR) 7.79 2. Kim Sei-young (KOR) 7.38 3. Nelly Korda (USA) 6.59 4. Danielle Kang (USA) 6.40 5. Park In-bee (KOR) 6.18 6. Brooke Henderson (CAN) 5.81 7. Nasa Hataoka (JPN) 5.71 8. Minjee Lee (AUS) 5.25 9. Park Sung-hyun (KOR) 4.99 10. Kim Hyo-joo (KOR) 4.90

Desert storms, Dustin's millions: golf talking points

Technology has been a boon during the time of COVID-19 pandemic. Adapting to the ever-evolving scenario, the world has used the world of technology to optimize the survival instinct while keeping up with the day-to-day demands of lives. Be it entertainment, online shopping or even gaming, Augmented and Virtual Reality (AR/VR) has come out as one of the advanced technologies amid the pandemic that has helped not only the gamers but also the daily consumers to make use of the technology.

The world of gaming has witnessed a massive surge in the number of users and the number of hours spends by gamers in front of their console or gaming system. While traditional games have shone in the times of lockdown and unlock, XR (AR and VR) games are breaking into the scene much rapidly than ever before.

“A major challenge for XR has been the dependency on devices. The COVID-19 pandemic has been pretty great for the gaming industry due to the huge surge of users, engagement and so much more. In terms of VR, I feel this is the time we will see users adapting to technology. Games like Oculus Quest 2 was preordered five times as much as the original, which has also helped developers. I feel the greatest challenge has definitely been the supply-demand in the case of VR since it was severely impacted by the COVID-19 lockdown. I feel India is a more AR friendly market than a VR. Simple factors such as device dependency and network connectivity contribute to the cause,” Shrey Mishra, Co-Founder at XR Central told WION.

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The biggest challenge for XR gaming sector would be to keep this anticipation among the gamers high as it was during the lockdown. Introduction of cheaper VR sets and creation of addictive games have made the mark already but the way social media is catering to AR-enabled platforms such as Facebook and Snapchat will only increase the curiosity among the young gaming generation.

<h2>"AR/VR in gaming sector bound to grow"</h2>

“It is simple to see that the sector is bound to grow. New cheaper headsets will be introduced in the market with a higher level of flexibility. Virtual reality (VR) in the gaming market was valued at USD 7.7 billion in 2019 and is projected to reach USD 42.50 billion by 2025. A huge spike will be through AR-enabled messengers like Facebook and Snapchat messenger which are driving a huge wave of users to augmented reality,” Shrey added.

With 2021 set to bring new hopes and trends in the entire world with the gaming sector no exception, AR/VR trend is likely to witness a boost. Not only in the world of gaming but AR is also expected to boost the online shopping zone/&nbsp;

“Device dependency on AR and VR will steadily fall off. Web-based AR and VR solutions are the future. AR and VR will be included in corporate strategies. Digital Marketers will continue to experiment with AR/VR, if not already, will create something called experiential marketing. AR will become mainstream for online shopping.&nbsp;

IN PICS:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/battle-of-goats-legendary-bout-between-mike-tyson-and-jones-jr-ends-in-draw-346248" hreflang="en">Battle of GOATS: Legendary bout between Mike Tyson and Jones Jr. ends in draw</a>

“Virtual events will continue to be in bolster the Events and Entertainment industry. Even after the travel resumes, companies will look at hybrid event execution models (the combination of online and offline activations). Educational institutes will shift to AR and VR for experiential and immersive training and will no longer be restricted to PPTs and Excels,” Shrey concluded.

XRC are one of the market innovators with specialization in: Virtual spaces, 3D web and VR content, Web AR and Web VR, and AI-powered voice, among others.

Technology has been a boon during the time of COVID-19 pandemic. Adapting to the ever-evolving scenario, the world has used the world of technology to optimize the survival instinct while keeping up with the day-to-day demands of lives.

Technology has been a boon during the time of COVID-19 pandemic. Adapting to the ever-evolving scenario, the world has used the world of technology to optimize the survival instinct while keeping up with the day-to-day demands of lives. Be it entertainment, online shopping or even gaming, Augmented and Virtual Reality (AR/VR) has come out as one of the advanced technologies amid the pandemic that has helped not only the gamers but also the daily consumers to make use of the technology. The world of gaming has witnessed a massive surge in the number of users and the number of hours spends by gamers in front of their console or gaming system. While traditional games have shone in the times of lockdown and unlock, XR (AR and VR) games are breaking into the scene much rapidly than ever before. “A major challenge for XR has been the dependency on devices. The COVID-19 pandemic has been pretty great for the gaming industry due to the huge surge of users, engagement and so much more. In terms of VR, I feel this is the time we will see users adapting to technology. Games like Oculus Quest 2 was preordered five times as much as the original, which has also helped developers. I feel the greatest challenge has definitely been the supply-demand in the case of VR since it was severely impacted by the COVID-19 lockdown. I feel India is a more AR friendly market than a VR. Simple factors such as device dependency and network connectivity contribute to the cause,” Shrey Mishra, Co-Founder at XR Central told WION. TRENDING | Romain Grosjean's fireball crash: Haas' fiery F1 accident in pictures The biggest challenge for XR gaming sector would be to keep this anticipation among the gamers high as it was during the lockdown. Introduction of cheaper VR sets and creation of addictive games have made the mark already but the way social media is catering to AR-enabled platforms such as Facebook and Snapchat will only increase the curiosity among the young gaming generation. "AR/VR in gaming sector bound to grow" “It is simple to see that the sector is bound to grow. New cheaper headsets will be introduced in the market with a higher level of flexibility. Virtual reality (VR) in the gaming market was valued at USD 7.7 billion in 2019 and is projected to reach USD 42.50 billion by 2025. A huge spike will be through AR-enabled messengers like Facebook and Snapchat messenger which are driving a huge wave of users to augmented reality,” Shrey added. With 2021 set to bring new hopes and trends in the entire world with the gaming sector no exception, AR/VR trend is likely to witness a boost. Not only in the world of gaming but AR is also expected to boost the online shopping zone/ “Device dependency on AR and VR will steadily fall off. Web-based AR and VR solutions are the future. AR and VR will be included in corporate strategies. Digital Marketers will continue to experiment with AR/VR, if not already, will create something called experiential marketing. AR will become mainstream for online shopping. IN PICS: Battle of GOATS: Legendary bout between Mike Tyson and Jones Jr. ends in draw “Virtual events will continue to be in bolster the Events and Entertainment industry. Even after the travel resumes, companies will look at hybrid event execution models (the combination of online and offline activations). Educational institutes will shift to AR and VR for experiential and immersive training and will no longer be restricted to PPTs and Excels,” Shrey concluded. XRC are one of the market innovators with specialization in: Virtual spaces, 3D web and VR content, Web AR and Web VR, and AI-powered voice, among others.

Evolution of esports, gaming sectors with AR/VR trends

Ahead of their first 'home' match of the Hero Indian Super League 2020/21 season, Mumbai City FC today paid a special tribute to the city of Mumbai and its fans by revealing a unique, artistically designed, site-specific mural and a large scale banner.

While President, Mumbai District Football Association, Aditya Thackeray took part in the reveal as he posed with a picture of the mural, Bollywood A-lister and Co-owner of Mumbai City FC,&nbsp;Ranbir Kapoor was seen posing with an image of the banner.&nbsp;

<img alt="MCFC" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e545f412-65e6-444a-8b0d-625f75c64cb0" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/MCFC-3.JPG" />

With the global pandemic compelling the fans and supporters to cheer from home, Mumbai City FC has created the two pieces of artwork at two distinct places close to the heart of the Islanders. The murals have been&nbsp;conceptualized&nbsp;and&nbsp;realized&nbsp;by the young Mumbai artist Tanya Eden. The mural will be housed at the Andheri Sports Complex in Mumbai while the banner will be displayed at Goa for all the Club’s home games for the entirety of the current ISL season.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/maradonas-legacy-will-continue-and-so-seems-the-battle-for-his-inheritance-346553" hreflang="en">Maradona's legacy will continue and so seems the battle for his inheritance</a>

The mural has been artistically designed in order to paint a holistic picture of the great city that the Club represents — complete with symbols of the spirit of sportsmanship, dedication, and courage — values that its inhabitants have always stood by. It highlights how the people of the city are an integral part of the enigma called Mumbai along with the skyscrapers, the grandiose hoardings, and the beautiful marine fronts. In the course of the last few months, the city was under the scourge of the pandemic, but has endured thanks to the untiring and selfless contributions of its residents — the healthcare professionals, the security personnel, the essential workers, the dabbawalas among countless others. Mumbai City FC is proud to represent a city with such vivid talents and an indomitable spirit that rubs on the players as well.&nbsp;

<img alt="MCFC" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="4105eb5c-fe12-4863-837b-8f962cfe316a" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/MCFC-2.JPG" />

Additionally, the larger-than-life banner at Goa aims to serve as an inspiration for the players who will be missing the wave of energy and passion from the physical presence of their fans. However, it is the same passion which the players will be looking to replicate on the day Mumbai City FC plays its first 'home' game of this ISL season against East Bengal on Tuesday, 1st December 2020. The beachfront scenery of Goa embodies the feeling of fervor that the players will look up to while their loyal fans support from the comfort and safety of their homes. When the players turn out in Mumbai City FC colors, they will be wearing their heart on their sleeves, and in being socially distant, will look to enhance the “closer than ever” experience.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/lionel-messis-newells-old-boys-shirt-tribute-to-diego-maradona-wins-hearts-346521" hreflang="en">Lionel Messi's Newell's Old Boys shirt tribute to Diego Maradona wins hearts</a>

Speaking on the occasion,&nbsp;President, Mumbai District Football Association, Aditya Thackeray said, "Mumbai City FC is the heartbeat of our city, and is one of the biggest clubs in the country. All of us fans in Mumbai, including myself, will be fully behind the team and will be praying for an ISL title this season. That will surely bring the smile back on the faces of the Mumbaikars! I am really honoured to be presenting the very special mural, which represents the Herculean spirit of the city and its people. As always, I wish the Club the very best for this season, and always know that as fans, we are all rooting for you."&nbsp;

<img alt="MCFC" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="58a2d77c-70d6-4c69-be73-cd2a0862eece" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/MCFC-1.JPG" />

Co-owner Ranbir Kapoor added, "Mumbai City FC is the pulse of this great and beautiful city of Mumbai. The vehement and enthusiastic support that we get every year from our fans is certainly something that creates a special feeling for our players, and with the pandemic having forced fans to watch and support only from their TV sets and social media, our ambition has been to bring everyone closer together. With these amazing illustrations, we wanted to show the players that everyone in the city is behind them, and to the fans, we wanted to say that they are "closer than ever" to&nbsp;the team with&nbsp;their bright energy&nbsp;whenever they play the most beautiful game."&nbsp;

Ahead of their first 'home' match of the Hero Indian Super League 2020/21 season, Mumbai City FC today paid a special tribute to the city of Mumbai and its fans by revealing a unique, artistically designed, site-specific mural and a large scale banner.

Ahead of their first 'home' match of the Hero Indian Super League 2020/21 season, Mumbai City FC today paid a special tribute to the city of Mumbai and its fans by revealing a unique, artistically designed, site-specific mural and a large scale banner. While President, Mumbai District Football Association, Aditya Thackeray took part in the reveal as he posed with a picture of the mural, Bollywood A-lister and Co-owner of Mumbai City FC, Ranbir Kapoor was seen posing with an image of the banner. With the global pandemic compelling the fans and supporters to cheer from home, Mumbai City FC has created the two pieces of artwork at two distinct places close to the heart of the Islanders. The murals have been conceptualized and realized by the young Mumbai artist Tanya Eden. The mural will be housed at the Andheri Sports Complex in Mumbai while the banner will be displayed at Goa for all the Club’s home games for the entirety of the current ISL season. ALSO READ: Maradona's legacy will continue and so seems the battle for his inheritance The mural has been artistically designed in order to paint a holistic picture of the great city that the Club represents — complete with symbols of the spirit of sportsmanship, dedication, and courage — values that its inhabitants have always stood by. It highlights how the people of the city are an integral part of the enigma called Mumbai along with the skyscrapers, the grandiose hoardings, and the beautiful marine fronts. In the course of the last few months, the city was under the scourge of the pandemic, but has endured thanks to the untiring and selfless contributions of its residents — the healthcare professionals, the security personnel, the essential workers, the dabbawalas among countless others. Mumbai City FC is proud to represent a city with such vivid talents and an indomitable spirit that rubs on the players as well. Additionally, the larger-than-life banner at Goa aims to serve as an inspiration for the players who will be missing the wave of energy and passion from the physical presence of their fans. However, it is the same passion which the players will be looking to replicate on the day Mumbai City FC plays its first 'home' game of this ISL season against East Bengal on Tuesday, 1st December 2020. The beachfront scenery of Goa embodies the feeling of fervor that the players will look up to while their loyal fans support from the comfort and safety of their homes. When the players turn out in Mumbai City FC colors, they will be wearing their heart on their sleeves, and in being socially distant, will look to enhance the “closer than ever” experience. ALSO READ: Lionel Messi's Newell's Old Boys shirt tribute to Diego Maradona wins hearts Speaking on the occasion, President, Mumbai District Football Association, Aditya Thackeray said, "Mumbai City FC is the heartbeat of our city, and is one of the biggest clubs in the country. All of us fans in Mumbai, including myself, will be fully behind the team and will be praying for an ISL title this season. That will surely bring the smile back on the faces of the Mumbaikars! I am really honoured to be presenting the very special mural, which represents the Herculean spirit of the city and its people. As always, I wish the Club the very best for this season, and always know that as fans, we are all rooting for you." Co-owner Ranbir Kapoor added, "Mumbai City FC is the pulse of this great and beautiful city of Mumbai. The vehement and enthusiastic support that we get every year from our fans is certainly something that creates a special feeling for our players, and with the pandemic having forced fans to watch and support only from their TV sets and social media, our ambition has been to bring everyone closer together. With these amazing illustrations, we wanted to show the players that everyone in the city is behind them, and to the fans, we wanted to say that they are "closer than ever" to the team with their bright energy whenever they play the most beautiful game."

Mumbai City FC 'closer than ever' to Islanders' fans with specially curated mural and banner

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Subhayan Chakraborty

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