India are set to take on Australia in three ODIs, as many T20Is and four Test matches in what promises to be a blockbuster series. With the first ODI taking place in Sydney on Friday, the anticipation and hype around the series are unparalleled. Former Australian captain Michael Clarke feels Australia will defeat India 4-0 in the Test series if the Men in Blue fail in the white-ball series.

According to Clarke, Indian captain Virat Kohli has to set the momentum in the ODIs and T20Is or else India will fail to win even a single Test Down Under.&nbsp;

“These one-dayers and these Twenty20s is where Virat Kohli can really stand up and lead from the front. I think the tone he sets with this team will play a big role when he leaves, after the first Test match,” Clarke said on ‘Sky Sports Radio’ on Tuesday.

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“If India don‘t have success in the one-dayers and the T20s, they are in deep trouble in the Test matches and they’ll get smoked 4-0, in my opinion,” he added.

Clarke further said that Indian pacers, especially Jasprit Bumrah, will need to be aggressive against the Australian batsmen while using the short deliveries consistently.&nbsp;

“He‘s quick, he’s got a really different action, so I think he needs to set the tone and be really aggressive to the Australian batters. Even to someone like Steve Smith, he’s got to use that short ball consistently and regularly, as Jofra Archer did to Steve Smith in the Ashes,” Clarke further said.

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“They’ve got to take the Aussies on and those two players are India’s best two players to be aggressive to the Australians,” he signed off.

With Rohit Sharma and Ishant Sharma likely to be out of the first two Tests and Virat Kohli leaving after the opening Test in Adelaide, it would be interesting to see how Team India faces the might of Australia on their home soil.

India are set to take on Australia in three ODIs, as many T20Is and four Test matches in what promises to be a blockbuster series. With the first ODI taking place in Sydney on Friday, the anticipation and hype around the series are unparalleled.

India are set to take on Australia in three ODIs, as many T20Is and four Test matches in what promises to be a blockbuster series. With the first ODI taking place in Sydney on Friday, the anticipation and hype around the series are unparalleled. Former Australian captain Michael Clarke feels Australia will defeat India 4-0 in the Test series if the Men in Blue fail in the white-ball series. According to Clarke, Indian captain Virat Kohli has to set the momentum in the ODIs and T20Is or else India will fail to win even a single Test Down Under. “These one-dayers and these Twenty20s is where Virat Kohli can really stand up and lead from the front. I think the tone he sets with this team will play a big role when he leaves, after the first Test match,” Clarke said on ‘Sky Sports Radio’ on Tuesday. ALSO READ: India's Rohit, Ishant Sharma out of first 2 Tests vs Australia “If India don‘t have success in the one-dayers and the T20s, they are in deep trouble in the Test matches and they’ll get smoked 4-0, in my opinion,” he added. Clarke further said that Indian pacers, especially Jasprit Bumrah, will need to be aggressive against the Australian batsmen while using the short deliveries consistently. “He‘s quick, he’s got a really different action, so I think he needs to set the tone and be really aggressive to the Australian batters. Even to someone like Steve Smith, he’s got to use that short ball consistently and regularly, as Jofra Archer did to Steve Smith in the Ashes,” Clarke further said. ALSO READ: With India series looming, Smith relieved to find his hands “They’ve got to take the Aussies on and those two players are India’s best two players to be aggressive to the Australians,” he signed off. With Rohit Sharma and Ishant Sharma likely to be out of the first two Tests and Virat Kohli leaving after the opening Test in Adelaide, it would be interesting to see how Team India faces the might of Australia on their home soil.

IND vs AUS: Australia will smoke India 4-0 in Tests, predicts Michael Clarke

Sanjana Ramesh, the young prodigy from NBA Academy Women’s Program, has set well-defined goals for the much-awaited 2020-21 National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division I basketball season starting November 25th.

Representing the Northern Arizona University in the Big Sky conference, Sanjana is clear about where she sees herself this season. “I know I shouldn’t keep my expectations too high, but I do want to play at least 10 minutes each game. I want to be the leading shot-blocker in our conference and get at least six rebounds (each game), I have some very detailed goals for the season,” said the 19-year-old with confidence.

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With the pandemic threat still looming large, Sanjana is wary of a curtailed season and is preparing to deal with the circumstances. “If anyone in the team tests positive for Covid-19, then we will have a 14-day shutdown with no practice, no play, nothing. Though we are all hoping to play all the 25 games this season, we need to be prepared for such a scenario,” Sanjana said.

While she wishes the season goes unaffected, the pandemic brought about changes in her daily routine, much like anyone else.&nbsp;“I feel like my whole life has been turned upside down. Playing with masks on is the strangest thing I have had to do. We are getting tested thrice a week, and there is no chance of hanging out with friends or playing pick-up games,” explained Sanjana.

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However, she is happy to forgo the luxury of stepping out with friends to unwind and live in isolation if it gives her an entire season to play in. “I certainly don’t want to encounter a situation where I test positive. You don’t want to take that risk so it’s best to stay in isolation and have a very good chance of playing a lot this year,” Sanjana admitted.&nbsp;

In May 2018, Sanjana became the second Indian-born female player to receive a Division I basketball scholarship after committing to the Northern Arizona University. The Bengaluru-girl was thankful for the exposure she got through the NBA Academy Women’s Program camp.

“Playing in Bengaluru all my life, my first thoughts when I got selected was that it is a big opportunity.&nbsp;I wanted to understand who all are coming, what kind of players they are. It was like a recruitment project, a whole new world for me, a complete eye-opener,” said Sanjana, who won the MVP at the first-ever NBA Academy Women’s Program camp and the Basketball Without Borders Asia Camp in 2018 held at the NBA Academy India.

Sanjana was also supportive in her university’s efforts to create awareness of the ongoing social justice movement in the U.S. “We marched during the Election Day wearing Black Lives Matter T-shirts and were actively reaching out to the community through social media. I think we made a lot of efforts to get people heard,” said Sanjana.

The Northern Arizona University (NAU) will take on&nbsp;University of Nevada Las Vegas Athletics in their first game of the 2020-21 NCAA season on November 25th.

Sanjana Ramesh, the young prodigy from NBA Academy Women’s Program, has set well-defined goals for the much-awaited 2020-21 National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division I basketball season starting November 25th.

Sanjana Ramesh, the young prodigy from NBA Academy Women’s Program, has set well-defined goals for the much-awaited 2020-21 National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division I basketball season starting November 25th. Representing the Northern Arizona University in the Big Sky conference, Sanjana is clear about where she sees herself this season. “I know I shouldn’t keep my expectations too high, but I do want to play at least 10 minutes each game. I want to be the leading shot-blocker in our conference and get at least six rebounds (each game), I have some very detailed goals for the season,” said the 19-year-old with confidence. ALSO READ: 'Completely unacceptable': Arsenal, Leeds condemn online abuse of Pepe, Alioski With the pandemic threat still looming large, Sanjana is wary of a curtailed season and is preparing to deal with the circumstances. “If anyone in the team tests positive for Covid-19, then we will have a 14-day shutdown with no practice, no play, nothing. Though we are all hoping to play all the 25 games this season, we need to be prepared for such a scenario,” Sanjana said. While she wishes the season goes unaffected, the pandemic brought about changes in her daily routine, much like anyone else. “I feel like my whole life has been turned upside down. Playing with masks on is the strangest thing I have had to do. We are getting tested thrice a week, and there is no chance of hanging out with friends or playing pick-up games,” explained Sanjana. ALSO READ: SA vs Eng: Team decision to not take the knee, says Rabada However, she is happy to forgo the luxury of stepping out with friends to unwind and live in isolation if it gives her an entire season to play in. “I certainly don’t want to encounter a situation where I test positive. You don’t want to take that risk so it’s best to stay in isolation and have a very good chance of playing a lot this year,” Sanjana admitted. In May 2018, Sanjana became the second Indian-born female player to receive a Division I basketball scholarship after committing to the Northern Arizona University. The Bengaluru-girl was thankful for the exposure she got through the NBA Academy Women’s Program camp. “Playing in Bengaluru all my life, my first thoughts when I got selected was that it is a big opportunity. I wanted to understand who all are coming, what kind of players they are. It was like a recruitment project, a whole new world for me, a complete eye-opener,” said Sanjana, who won the MVP at the first-ever NBA Academy Women’s Program camp and the Basketball Without Borders Asia Camp in 2018 held at the NBA Academy India. Sanjana was also supportive in her university’s efforts to create awareness of the ongoing social justice movement in the U.S. “We marched during the Election Day wearing Black Lives Matter T-shirts and were actively reaching out to the community through social media. I think we made a lot of efforts to get people heard,” said Sanjana. The Northern Arizona University (NAU) will take on University of Nevada Las Vegas Athletics in their first game of the 2020-21 NCAA season on November 25th.

Sanjana Ramesh has set ‘detailed goals’ for the upcoming NCAA season

Rohit Sharma and Ishant Sharma have been ruled out of the first two Test matches of the Border-Gavaskar trophy in Australia. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) will have to make quick calls if they want Rohit and Ishant to be available for the last two Tests of the series, which will start on December 16 in Adelaide.

According to ESPNCricinfo, Ishant has regained bowling fitness but still needs another four weeks of workload to be up for the Tests and will have to board immediately to be in contention for the third Test.

The strict quarantine phase of 14 days in Australia allows them to train only after four weeks and then another four weeks of preparatory training can only make Ishant ready for the third Test, which will be played on January 7 in Sydney.&nbsp;

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"If there is a T20 game and he needs to just bowl four overs, Ishant is good to go immediately, but for him to get back to Test-match fitness, he needs four weeks of proper bowling still," a BCCI source said.

Whereas, Rohit Sharma can be cleared to travel by the NCA on December 8 – at the earliest. Another 14 days in quarantine will keep him out of training until December 22.

Rohit had suffered a hamstring tear during the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 and will take another two weeks of rehabilitation to be “70 or 80% readiness”, as per a BCCI functionary. The official feels Rohit might have been ready for the Tests had he flown directly to Australia from the UAE.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/aus-vs-ind-indias-mohammed-siraj-opens-up-on-the-loss-of-his-father-says-want-to-do-is-fulfil-his-dream-344927" hreflang="en">India's Mohammed Siraj opens up on the loss of his father, says 'want to fulfil his dream'</a>

If Rohit is out then Shreyas Iyer is likely to be included in the Test squad as reserve batsman.&nbsp;

India have the likes of Jasprit Bumrah, Umesh Yadav, Mohammed Shami and Mohammed Siraj in the Test squad, as far as fast bowling is concerned, along with the Kartik Tyagi, Kamlesh Nagarkoti and Ishan Porel in the reserve bench.

Rohit Sharma and Ishant Sharma have been ruled out of the first two Test matches of the Border-Gavaskar trophy in Australia. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) will have to make quick calls if they want Rohit and Ishant to be available for the last two Tests of the series, which will start on December 16 in Adelaide.

Rohit Sharma and Ishant Sharma have been ruled out of the first two Test matches of the Border-Gavaskar trophy in Australia. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) will have to make quick calls if they want Rohit and Ishant to be available for the last two Tests of the series, which will start on December 16 in Adelaide. According to ESPNCricinfo, Ishant has regained bowling fitness but still needs another four weeks of workload to be up for the Tests and will have to board immediately to be in contention for the third Test. The strict quarantine phase of 14 days in Australia allows them to train only after four weeks and then another four weeks of preparatory training can only make Ishant ready for the third Test, which will be played on January 7 in Sydney. ALSO READ: With India series looming, Smith relieved to find his hands "If there is a T20 game and he needs to just bowl four overs, Ishant is good to go immediately, but for him to get back to Test-match fitness, he needs four weeks of proper bowling still," a BCCI source said. Whereas, Rohit Sharma can be cleared to travel by the NCA on December 8 – at the earliest. Another 14 days in quarantine will keep him out of training until December 22. Rohit had suffered a hamstring tear during the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 and will take another two weeks of rehabilitation to be “70 or 80% readiness”, as per a BCCI functionary. The official feels Rohit might have been ready for the Tests had he flown directly to Australia from the UAE. ALSO READ: India's Mohammed Siraj opens up on the loss of his father, says 'want to fulfil his dream' If Rohit is out then Shreyas Iyer is likely to be included in the Test squad as reserve batsman. India have the likes of Jasprit Bumrah, Umesh Yadav, Mohammed Shami and Mohammed Siraj in the Test squad, as far as fast bowling is concerned, along with the Kartik Tyagi, Kamlesh Nagarkoti and Ishan Porel in the reserve bench.

India's Rohit, Ishant Sharma out of first 2 Tests vs Australia

The truncated 2020 tennis season came to an end on Sunday when Daniil Medvedev defeated Dominic Thiem in the championship match of the ATP Finals in London.

AFP Sport looks at five things to remember from the coronavirus-impacted year:

<h2>Djokovic's rollercoaster</h2>

-- Novak Djokovic started the year with an eighth Australian Open and 17th Grand Slam title and finished it by equalling Pete Sampras's record as a year-end world number one for a sixth time.

In between, however, the darker side of the 33-year-old emerged.

While the sport went into coronavirus lockdown, the Serb launched his ill-fated Adria Tour in June.

With no social distancing and with players pictured dancing shirtless at a packed nightclub, Djokovic became one of a number of players to test positive for coronavirus.

Grigor Dimitrov, Borna Coric and Viktor Troicki also became ill and the project was abandoned.

"You can't be dancing on tables, money-grabbing your way around Europe or trying to make a quick buck hosting the next exhibition. That's just so selfish," said Australian firebrand Nick Kyrgios.

Djokovic then saw his hopes of an 18th Slam end with a disqualification from the US Open after inadvertently hitting a line judge with a ball.

His hopes of becoming the first man in half a century to win all four Slams twice ended in a straight sets defeat to Rafael Nadal in the French Open final.

<h2>Nadal's 13th Roland Garros</h2>

-- Rafael Nadal had skipped the US Open, where he was defending champion, due to fears over the escalating health crisis in New York.

The decision paid off as he swept to a 13th Roland Garros and 20th career Grand Slam title in Paris in October.

The French Open had been pushed back four months due to the pandemic and Nadal had entered the tournament fearing the heavier balls and autumn conditions would conspire against him.

He need not have worried as he reached the 100-win mark at the tournament without dropping a set, making light of the 1,000 fans a day limit.

The absent Roger Federer, also a 20-time major winner, hailed it as "one of sport's greatest achievements".

<h2>Game, set, match to coronavirus</h2>

--&nbsp;The global pandemic closed down tennis from March until August.

Wimbledon was cancelled for the first time since World War II while Roland Garros was moved from its traditional May/June slot to September/October.

The Davis Cup and Fed Cup finals were binned as were the ATP and WTA end-of-season Asian swings.

Most events were played behind closed doors. Players racquet-tapped instead of shaking hands and were told to fetch their own towels.

<h2>Kenin and Swiatek give Slams new look</h2>

-- Serena Williams' quest for a record-equalling 24th Slam goes on after another season of frustration at the Slams.

The 39-year-old lost in the third round in Australia, semi-finals of the US Open and pulled out injured after the first round of the French Open.

With number one Ashleigh Barty not playing at all after the resumption, something of a power vacuum emerged.

Sofia Kenin had already claimed a maiden Slam at the Australian Open while Naomi Osaka claimed a second US Open and third career major in New York.

Kenin's hopes of a second Slam in 2020 were undone by charismatic Iga Swiatek of Poland who won a shock French Open.

The 19-year-old, at 54, was the lowest-ranked woman to capture the Roland Garros title in the modern era and was Poland's first ever major champion.

<h2>Freeze -- you're number one</h2>

-- The chaos caused to tennis by the pandemic saw the governing bodies freeze world rankings from March, allowing points to extend beyond the traditional 52-week window.

Barty remained world number one despite playing just three events -- winning the Adelaide tournament followed by semi-final runs at the Australian Open and Qatar Open.

Former US Open winner Bianca Andreescu didn't play a single match in 2020 after injuring her knee at the WTA Finals in Shenzhen in October last year.

The Canadian will still finish at seven in the rankings.

Roger Federer will end 2020 ranked at five following a season where he only played the Australian Open before undergoing knee surgery.

The truncated 2020 tennis season came to an end on Sunday when Daniil Medvedev defeated Dominic Thiem in the championship match of the ATP Finals in London. AFP Sport looks at five things to remember from the coronavirus-impacted year: Djokovic's rollercoaster -- Novak Djokovic started the year with an eighth Australian Open and 17th Grand Slam title and finished it by equalling Pete Sampras's record as a year-end world number one for a sixth time.

The truncated 2020 tennis season came to an end on Sunday when Daniil Medvedev defeated Dominic Thiem in the championship match of the ATP Finals in London. AFP Sport looks at five things to remember from the coronavirus-impacted year: Djokovic's rollercoaster -- Novak Djokovic started the year with an eighth Australian Open and 17th Grand Slam title and finished it by equalling Pete Sampras's record as a year-end world number one for a sixth time. In between, however, the darker side of the 33-year-old emerged. While the sport went into coronavirus lockdown, the Serb launched his ill-fated Adria Tour in June. With no social distancing and with players pictured dancing shirtless at a packed nightclub, Djokovic became one of a number of players to test positive for coronavirus. Grigor Dimitrov, Borna Coric and Viktor Troicki also became ill and the project was abandoned. "You can't be dancing on tables, money-grabbing your way around Europe or trying to make a quick buck hosting the next exhibition. That's just so selfish," said Australian firebrand Nick Kyrgios. Djokovic then saw his hopes of an 18th Slam end with a disqualification from the US Open after inadvertently hitting a line judge with a ball. His hopes of becoming the first man in half a century to win all four Slams twice ended in a straight sets defeat to Rafael Nadal in the French Open final. Nadal's 13th Roland Garros -- Rafael Nadal had skipped the US Open, where he was defending champion, due to fears over the escalating health crisis in New York. The decision paid off as he swept to a 13th Roland Garros and 20th career Grand Slam title in Paris in October. The French Open had been pushed back four months due to the pandemic and Nadal had entered the tournament fearing the heavier balls and autumn conditions would conspire against him. He need not have worried as he reached the 100-win mark at the tournament without dropping a set, making light of the 1,000 fans a day limit. The absent Roger Federer, also a 20-time major winner, hailed it as "one of sport's greatest achievements". Game, set, match to coronavirus -- The global pandemic closed down tennis from March until August. Wimbledon was cancelled for the first time since World War II while Roland Garros was moved from its traditional May/June slot to September/October. The Davis Cup and Fed Cup finals were binned as were the ATP and WTA end-of-season Asian swings. Most events were played behind closed doors. Players racquet-tapped instead of shaking hands and were told to fetch their own towels. Kenin and Swiatek give Slams new look -- Serena Williams' quest for a record-equalling 24th Slam goes on after another season of frustration at the Slams. The 39-year-old lost in the third round in Australia, semi-finals of the US Open and pulled out injured after the first round of the French Open. With number one Ashleigh Barty not playing at all after the resumption, something of a power vacuum emerged. Sofia Kenin had already claimed a maiden Slam at the Australian Open while Naomi Osaka claimed a second US Open and third career major in New York. Kenin's hopes of a second Slam in 2020 were undone by charismatic Iga Swiatek of Poland who won a shock French Open. The 19-year-old, at 54, was the lowest-ranked woman to capture the Roland Garros title in the modern era and was Poland's first ever major champion. Freeze -- you're number one -- The chaos caused to tennis by the pandemic saw the governing bodies freeze world rankings from March, allowing points to extend beyond the traditional 52-week window. Barty remained world number one despite playing just three events -- winning the Adelaide tournament followed by semi-final runs at the Australian Open and Qatar Open. Former US Open winner Bianca Andreescu didn't play a single match in 2020 after injuring her knee at the WTA Finals in Shenzhen in October last year. The Canadian will still finish at seven in the rankings. Roger Federer will end 2020 ranked at five following a season where he only played the Australian Open before undergoing knee surgery.

Five talking points from the 2020 tennis season

Daniil Medvedev came from behind to beat US Open champion Dominic Thiem in a gripping encounter and win the biggest title of his career at the ATP Finals in London on Sunday.

The Russian fourth seed was second best for large periods at the empty O2 Arena but found a way back into the contest and prevailed 4-6, 7-6 (7/2), 6-4.

Medvedev, who beat five-time champion Novak Djokovic and world number two Rafael Nadal earlier in the week, is the first man to beat all three of the world's top-ranked players at the season finale.

The giant Russian, 24, has now won 10 consecutive matches following his title earlier this month at the Paris Masters and his victory will taste sweet a year after a winless debut in London.

But it is a painful defeat for Thiem, who also lost in the final of the elite eight-man event last year, to Stefanos Tsitsipas.

"What a match," said Medvedev. "One of my best victories, two hours and 42 minutes, three sets against an amazing player.

"Dominic, congratulations already for what you achieved in your career. Your name is already in the history of tennis books.&nbsp;

"It is amazing. You won a Grand Slam this year. You are playing unbelievable. I hope we are going to have many more matches to come on the big occasions like this."

&nbsp;

<h2>- Thiem pressure -</h2>

&nbsp;

Thiem weathered early pressure from Medvedev and secured the first break of the match in the fifth game, when the Russian served a double fault.

He sealed the set in fortunate fashion when his forehand clipped the net and looped over Medvedev's racket.

Medvedev, who came from a set down against Nadal in Saturday's last-four contest, made a solid start to the second set.

But Thiem held to love in the fourth game, looking comfortable as the giant Russian sought a way back into the match.

The 27-year-old third seed had chances to earn a potentially decisive break but they slipped by and he yelled in frustration as he squandered his opportunities.

The Austrian took a tumble onto the blue court at the start of the eighth game and found himself break point down but toughed it out, with Medvedev looking stronger as the set wore on.

The second set went to a tie-break. Having recovered from 0-4 to win the deciding tie-break against Djokovic on Saturday, Thiem got a taste of his own medicine as Medvedev turned a 2-0 deficit into a 7-2 victory.

The Austrian appeared to be struggling to cope with the punishing pace in the third set and Medvedev did not give him the rhythm to get his big groundstrokes flowing.

He finally cracked in the fifth game, when the Russian produced a volley at the net to break.

Thiem remained under pressure and had to battle hard to avoid going down another break.

But all Medvedev now had to do was keep his nerve. He did so as he served out for victory.

"Of course, I am disappointed, but at the same time I am also proud of the performance of all the week," said Thiem. "Daniil really deserved it. It was an amazing match."

Medvedev is the first Russian to win the ATP Finals since 2009, when Nikolay Davydenko triumphed at the first edition of the season finale held in London. Next year, the tournament moves to Turin in Italy.

Daniil Medvedev came from behind to beat US Open champion Dominic Thiem in a gripping encounter and win the biggest title of his career at the ATP Finals in London on Sunday.

Daniil Medvedev came from behind to beat US Open champion Dominic Thiem in a gripping encounter and win the biggest title of his career at the ATP Finals in London on Sunday. The Russian fourth seed was second best for large periods at the empty O2 Arena but found a way back into the contest and prevailed 4-6, 7-6 (7/2), 6-4. Medvedev, who beat five-time champion Novak Djokovic and world number two Rafael Nadal earlier in the week, is the first man to beat all three of the world's top-ranked players at the season finale. The giant Russian, 24, has now won 10 consecutive matches following his title earlier this month at the Paris Masters and his victory will taste sweet a year after a winless debut in London. But it is a painful defeat for Thiem, who also lost in the final of the elite eight-man event last year, to Stefanos Tsitsipas. "What a match," said Medvedev. "One of my best victories, two hours and 42 minutes, three sets against an amazing player. "Dominic, congratulations already for what you achieved in your career. Your name is already in the history of tennis books. "It is amazing. You won a Grand Slam this year. You are playing unbelievable. I hope we are going to have many more matches to come on the big occasions like this." - Thiem pressure - Thiem weathered early pressure from Medvedev and secured the first break of the match in the fifth game, when the Russian served a double fault. He sealed the set in fortunate fashion when his forehand clipped the net and looped over Medvedev's racket. Medvedev, who came from a set down against Nadal in Saturday's last-four contest, made a solid start to the second set. But Thiem held to love in the fourth game, looking comfortable as the giant Russian sought a way back into the match. The 27-year-old third seed had chances to earn a potentially decisive break but they slipped by and he yelled in frustration as he squandered his opportunities. The Austrian took a tumble onto the blue court at the start of the eighth game and found himself break point down but toughed it out, with Medvedev looking stronger as the set wore on. The second set went to a tie-break. Having recovered from 0-4 to win the deciding tie-break against Djokovic on Saturday, Thiem got a taste of his own medicine as Medvedev turned a 2-0 deficit into a 7-2 victory. The Austrian appeared to be struggling to cope with the punishing pace in the third set and Medvedev did not give him the rhythm to get his big groundstrokes flowing. He finally cracked in the fifth game, when the Russian produced a volley at the net to break. Thiem remained under pressure and had to battle hard to avoid going down another break. But all Medvedev now had to do was keep his nerve. He did so as he served out for victory. "Of course, I am disappointed, but at the same time I am also proud of the performance of all the week," said Thiem. "Daniil really deserved it. It was an amazing match." Medvedev is the first Russian to win the ATP Finals since 2009, when Nikolay Davydenko triumphed at the first edition of the season finale held in London. Next year, the tournament moves to Turin in Italy.

Medvedev beats Thiem to win ATP Finals title

Liverpool shrugged off an injury crisis to move level on points with Tottenham at the top of the Premier League with a 3-0 win over Leicester, while 10-man Arsenal were left to cling on for a 0-0 draw at Leeds by Nicolas Pepe's red card on Sunday.

The champions were without the injured Virgil van Dijk, Joe Gomez, Trent Alexander-Arnold, Jordan Henderson, Thiago Alcantara, Xherdan Shaqiri and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, while top scorer Mohamed Salah was absent due to a positive coronavirus test.

Yet, Jurgen Klopp's men were still imperious in easing past a Leicester side that had started the weekend on top of the table.

The Foxes did not do themselves any favours when Jonny Evans turned James Milner's corner into his own net to reward Liverpool's bright start.

Diogo Jota then became the first ever Liverpool player to score in his first four home league games with a downward header from Andy Robertson's cross.

Only a combination of goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel and the woodwork kept Liverpool from a repeat of the 4-0 thrashing they dished out to Leicester when the sides last met in December.

But Robert Firmino then rounded off a fine night for the champions with a towering header from another Milner corner six minutes from time.

"Playing them like that tonight, I do not take for granted," said Klopp. "The boys were on fire."

Liverpool have now set a new club record of 64 unbeaten league games at Anfield.

<h2>- Pepe lets Arsenal down -</h2>

Leicester's defeat means Arsenal are just five points off the top four, but Mikel Arteta was furious at Pepe's lack of discipline as the Gunners were lucky to escape with a point at Elland Road.

"It's unacceptable," said the Spaniard, whose side have won just one of their last five league games.&nbsp;

"With 10 men it is a big disadvantage. I really liked the personality of the team when Pepe let the team down, how we stuck to our jobs. Obviously it makes it really difficult."

Leeds are 14th after their third consecutive match without a win, but Marcelo Bielsa's men were left cursing their luck as Rodrigo, Patrick Bamford and Raphinha all hit the woodwork in the closing stages.

Arsenal captain Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang had been given a rare chance in the central striker's role, but he was starved of service even before Pepe's dismissal.

Aubameyang's penalty in a 1-0 win at Manchester United last month is the only league goal Arsenal have now scored for nearly 500 minutes.

<h2>- Everton bounce back -</h2>

Everton recovered from three straight defeats to beat Fulham 3-2 thanks to a double from Dominic Calvert-Lewin.

The England international moved to the top of the Premier League goalscoring charts with Abdoulaye Doucoure also on target for Carlo Ancelotti's men before half-time.

Bobby Decordova-Reid had equalised at 1-1 for Fulham, but their woes from the penalty spot continued as a third different player this season missed from the spot when Ivan Cavaleiro scooped his effort over the bar.

Ruben Loftus-Cheek reduced the deficit 20 minutes from time, but Everton held on to win for the first time in five league games to move up to sixth.

"The most important part of the game was to be back to winning," Ancelotti said.

"We lost energy in the second half, the players were tired. I changed to put more fresh legs on the pitch but we had to defend. In the end it went well."

Fulham remain one place above the relegation zone after their third defeat in four games.

Bottom of the table Sheffield United's wait for their first win this season goes on after they were beaten 1-0 by West Ham at Bramall Lane.

Sebastien Haller scored the winner in the 56th minute with a fierce shot that flashed into the roof of the net to move the Hammers up to eighth.

Liverpool shrugged off an injury crisis to move level on points with Tottenham at the top of the Premier League with a 3-0 win over Leicester, while 10-man Arsenal were left to cling on for a 0-0 draw at Leeds by Nicolas Pepe's red card on Sunday.

Liverpool shrugged off an injury crisis to move level on points with Tottenham at the top of the Premier League with a 3-0 win over Leicester, while 10-man Arsenal were left to cling on for a 0-0 draw at Leeds by Nicolas Pepe's red card on Sunday. The champions were without the injured Virgil van Dijk, Joe Gomez, Trent Alexander-Arnold, Jordan Henderson, Thiago Alcantara, Xherdan Shaqiri and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, while top scorer Mohamed Salah was absent due to a positive coronavirus test. Yet, Jurgen Klopp's men were still imperious in easing past a Leicester side that had started the weekend on top of the table. The Foxes did not do themselves any favours when Jonny Evans turned James Milner's corner into his own net to reward Liverpool's bright start. Diogo Jota then became the first ever Liverpool player to score in his first four home league games with a downward header from Andy Robertson's cross. Only a combination of goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel and the woodwork kept Liverpool from a repeat of the 4-0 thrashing they dished out to Leicester when the sides last met in December. But Robert Firmino then rounded off a fine night for the champions with a towering header from another Milner corner six minutes from time. "Playing them like that tonight, I do not take for granted," said Klopp. "The boys were on fire." Liverpool have now set a new club record of 64 unbeaten league games at Anfield. - Pepe lets Arsenal down - Leicester's defeat means Arsenal are just five points off the top four, but Mikel Arteta was furious at Pepe's lack of discipline as the Gunners were lucky to escape with a point at Elland Road. "It's unacceptable," said the Spaniard, whose side have won just one of their last five league games. "With 10 men it is a big disadvantage. I really liked the personality of the team when Pepe let the team down, how we stuck to our jobs. Obviously it makes it really difficult." Leeds are 14th after their third consecutive match without a win, but Marcelo Bielsa's men were left cursing their luck as Rodrigo, Patrick Bamford and Raphinha all hit the woodwork in the closing stages. Arsenal captain Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang had been given a rare chance in the central striker's role, but he was starved of service even before Pepe's dismissal. Aubameyang's penalty in a 1-0 win at Manchester United last month is the only league goal Arsenal have now scored for nearly 500 minutes. - Everton bounce back - Everton recovered from three straight defeats to beat Fulham 3-2 thanks to a double from Dominic Calvert-Lewin. The England international moved to the top of the Premier League goalscoring charts with Abdoulaye Doucoure also on target for Carlo Ancelotti's men before half-time. Bobby Decordova-Reid had equalised at 1-1 for Fulham, but their woes from the penalty spot continued as a third different player this season missed from the spot when Ivan Cavaleiro scooped his effort over the bar. Ruben Loftus-Cheek reduced the deficit 20 minutes from time, but Everton held on to win for the first time in five league games to move up to sixth. "The most important part of the game was to be back to winning," Ancelotti said. "We lost energy in the second half, the players were tired. I changed to put more fresh legs on the pitch but we had to defend. In the end it went well." Fulham remain one place above the relegation zone after their third defeat in four games. Bottom of the table Sheffield United's wait for their first win this season goes on after they were beaten 1-0 by West Ham at Bramall Lane. Sebastien Haller scored the winner in the 56th minute with a fierce shot that flashed into the roof of the net to move the Hammers up to eighth.

Injury-hit Liverpool keep setting records, 10-man Arsenal hold Leeds

Lionel Messi was almost unrecognisable and so were Barcelona as a rare defeat by Atletico Madrid on Saturday cast further doubt over the direction of the Ronald Koeman project.&nbsp;

Atletico had not beaten Barca in the league since 2010, their 1-0 win at the Wanda Metropolitano a timely affirmation that they are contenders and arguably now favourites to win La Liga.&nbsp;

For Barca sitting 12th, albeit with a game or two in hand over some of those above them, the immediate blow of a third league defeat in eight games was compounded by a knee ligament injury to Gerard Pique, which leaves Koeman with only one fit central defender.&nbsp;

But perhaps more concerning is the sense that Koeman's Barcelona appear already to be stalling, devoid of either a clear identity or renewed enthusiasm, both of which might have been expected to follow the appointment of a new coach.&nbsp;

"Like any coach, I am responsible," said Koeman on Saturday. "We have to improve the results. We have to improve defensively and in attack and after that I can't do anything more."&nbsp;

It was almost a year ago that Ernesto Valverde was sacked mid-season with the team top of the table, both a jolt reaction to stodgy performances and a delayed one after historical Champions League failure.&nbsp;

His replacement Quique Setien arrived with a purist approach believed to be consistent with Barca's DNA and for a while there were signs of it, only for results to dive and another split become unavoidable.&nbsp;

But Koeman's first four months have brought neither the pragmatism to grind out results nor the imagination to impose a style that dominates opponents or endures through adversity.&nbsp;

Atletico absorbed a handful of chances late on but the onslaught never came and as Barca chased an equaliser, they grew more desperate, the lack of a plan - or at least their belief in one - becoming more and more apparent.&nbsp;

The result feels like a season already set to be consigned to a period of transition, even if Barcelona's starting line-up against Atletico had only two new players and just three aged younger than 25.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

<h2>- Koeman in the hot seat -</h2>

&nbsp;

Koeman may be renovating but what team in the world would not find space for the likes of Messi, Antoine Griezmann, Ousmane Dembele, Frenkie de Jong, Jordi Alba, Pique and Marc-Andre ter Stegen?&nbsp;

There has certainly been a glance to the future, with the emergence of Pedri, who started against Atletico, and Sergino Dest and Francisco Trincao, who came on.&nbsp;

There has been a new formation too, a shift to 4-2-3-1, with De Jong as a pivot and Griezmann, and Messi, playing more central.&nbsp;

Yet change needs commitment and leadership, with one of Koeman's biggest problems the drift of his captain.

When Messi ran beyond Atletico's defence in the first half onto a pass from Alba, like he has done so many times before, the expectation was he would fire early past Jan Oblak, even from an acute angle.&nbsp;

Instead, he hesitated, looking up for a pass inside, before a tame finish rolled straight into the hands of the goalkeeper.

At full-time, Messi was among a number of senior players that could have taken responsibility for the team's post-match media duties but instead it was the 17-year-old Pedri in front of the cameras, just as Dest had spoken after the loss last month to Real Madrid.&nbsp;

Messi's efforts on the pitch cannot be questioned but he also looks increasingly burdened playing for Barcelona, with the enjoyment seemingly gone and the buzz lost ever since his failed attempt to leave.&nbsp;

"I'm fed up being the problem with everything that goes on at this club," said the frustrated 33-year-old on Wednesday, when questioned by reporters about his relationship with Griezmann, after a 15-hour flight back from Peru.&nbsp;

If Koeman does not inspire Messi, perhaps someone else will given a new club president in January could mean a new coach, either immediately or next summer, when Messi himself could walk away for free.&nbsp;

Every change will bring fresh upheaval. Koeman's transition could be the first of many.&nbsp;

Lionel Messi was almost unrecognisable and so were Barcelona as a rare defeat by Atletico Madrid on Saturday cast further doubt over the direction of the Ronald Koeman project.

Lionel Messi was almost unrecognisable and so were Barcelona as a rare defeat by Atletico Madrid on Saturday cast further doubt over the direction of the Ronald Koeman project. Atletico had not beaten Barca in the league since 2010, their 1-0 win at the Wanda Metropolitano a timely affirmation that they are contenders and arguably now favourites to win La Liga. For Barca sitting 12th, albeit with a game or two in hand over some of those above them, the immediate blow of a third league defeat in eight games was compounded by a knee ligament injury to Gerard Pique, which leaves Koeman with only one fit central defender. But perhaps more concerning is the sense that Koeman's Barcelona appear already to be stalling, devoid of either a clear identity or renewed enthusiasm, both of which might have been expected to follow the appointment of a new coach. "Like any coach, I am responsible," said Koeman on Saturday. "We have to improve the results. We have to improve defensively and in attack and after that I can't do anything more." It was almost a year ago that Ernesto Valverde was sacked mid-season with the team top of the table, both a jolt reaction to stodgy performances and a delayed one after historical Champions League failure. His replacement Quique Setien arrived with a purist approach believed to be consistent with Barca's DNA and for a while there were signs of it, only for results to dive and another split become unavoidable. But Koeman's first four months have brought neither the pragmatism to grind out results nor the imagination to impose a style that dominates opponents or endures through adversity. Atletico absorbed a handful of chances late on but the onslaught never came and as Barca chased an equaliser, they grew more desperate, the lack of a plan - or at least their belief in one - becoming more and more apparent. The result feels like a season already set to be consigned to a period of transition, even if Barcelona's starting line-up against Atletico had only two new players and just three aged younger than 25. - Koeman in the hot seat - Koeman may be renovating but what team in the world would not find space for the likes of Messi, Antoine Griezmann, Ousmane Dembele, Frenkie de Jong, Jordi Alba, Pique and Marc-Andre ter Stegen? There has certainly been a glance to the future, with the emergence of Pedri, who started against Atletico, and Sergino Dest and Francisco Trincao, who came on. There has been a new formation too, a shift to 4-2-3-1, with De Jong as a pivot and Griezmann, and Messi, playing more central. Yet change needs commitment and leadership, with one of Koeman's biggest problems the drift of his captain. When Messi ran beyond Atletico's defence in the first half onto a pass from Alba, like he has done so many times before, the expectation was he would fire early past Jan Oblak, even from an acute angle. Instead, he hesitated, looking up for a pass inside, before a tame finish rolled straight into the hands of the goalkeeper. At full-time, Messi was among a number of senior players that could have taken responsibility for the team's post-match media duties but instead it was the 17-year-old Pedri in front of the cameras, just as Dest had spoken after the loss last month to Real Madrid. Messi's efforts on the pitch cannot be questioned but he also looks increasingly burdened playing for Barcelona, with the enjoyment seemingly gone and the buzz lost ever since his failed attempt to leave. "I'm fed up being the problem with everything that goes on at this club," said the frustrated 33-year-old on Wednesday, when questioned by reporters about his relationship with Griezmann, after a 15-hour flight back from Peru. If Koeman does not inspire Messi, perhaps someone else will given a new club president in January could mean a new coach, either immediately or next summer, when Messi himself could walk away for free. Every change will bring fresh upheaval. Koeman's transition could be the first of many.

Barca drift, Messi disillusioned as Koeman renovation yet to convince

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/premier-league">Premier League</a> clubs Arsenal and Leeds United have strictly condemned abuse aimed at Nicholas Pepe and Ezgjan Alioski on social media following their goalless draw on Sunday. While Pepe was sent off after VAR officials spotted that the Arsenal forward had head-butted defender Alioski, the Arsenal winger was brandished a red card after referee Anthony Taylor took a look at the VAR monitor.

According to reports, both Pepe and Alioski were subjected to racial abuse from rival supporters after the match. Arsenal said that they will work with the police and authorities to trace and prosecute the culprits.

“We utterly condemn the vile abuse directed at Nicolas Pepe and Ezgjan Alioski on social media following our match against Leeds United,” Arsenal said in a statement.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/injury-hit-liverpool-keep-setting-records-10-man-arsenal-hold-leeds-344789" hreflang="en">Injury-hit Liverpool keep setting records, 10-man Arsenal hold Leeds</a>

“This is completely unacceptable and we will be working with the police and authorities to do everything we can to trace and prosecute the culprits.”

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We utterly condemn the vile abuse directed at Nicolas Pepe and Ezgjan Alioski on social media following our match against Leeds. 
 
This is completely unacceptable and we will be working with the police and authorities to do everything we can to trace and prosecute the culprits.
— Arsenal (@Arsenal) <a href="https://twitter.com/Arsenal/status/1330798429220593667?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 23, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Whereas Leeds United also released a similar statement as they said they would not tolerate such abuse.

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The vile abuse directed at Ezgjan Alioski and Nicolas Pepe on social media after yesterday’s game with Arsenal will not be tolerated by <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LUFC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LUFC</a>. 
 
We will work closely with the police and the footballing authorities to ensure those responsible are identified and punished.
— Leeds United (@LUFC) <a href="https://twitter.com/LUFC/status/1330801801269043202?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 23, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The extreme growth of social media has fueled discriminatory abuse towards footballers in recent years.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/liverpools-mohamed-salah-to-start-training-after-negative-covid-19-test-jurgen-klopp-344905" hreflang="en">Liverpool's Mohamed Salah to start training after negative COVID-19 test: Jurgen Klopp</a>

The likes of Patrick van Aanholt and winger Wilfried Zaha are among the players who have urged the authorities to take stricter action against racism after they were targeted.&nbsp;

Manchester United’s Marcus Rashford, Paul Pogba; Manchester City’s Raheem Sterling and many other players from the Premier League and other European Leagues have suffered social media abuse over the years on the basis of their on-field or off-field life. &nbsp;

Premier League clubs Arsenal and Leeds United have strictly condemned abuse aimed at Nicholas Pepe and Ezgjan Alioski on social media following their goalless draw on Sunday.

Premier League clubs Arsenal and Leeds United have strictly condemned abuse aimed at Nicholas Pepe and Ezgjan Alioski on social media following their goalless draw on Sunday. While Pepe was sent off after VAR officials spotted that the Arsenal forward had head-butted defender Alioski, the Arsenal winger was brandished a red card after referee Anthony Taylor took a look at the VAR monitor. According to reports, both Pepe and Alioski were subjected to racial abuse from rival supporters after the match. Arsenal said that they will work with the police and authorities to trace and prosecute the culprits. “We utterly condemn the vile abuse directed at Nicolas Pepe and Ezgjan Alioski on social media following our match against Leeds United,” Arsenal said in a statement. ALSO READ: Injury-hit Liverpool keep setting records, 10-man Arsenal hold Leeds “This is completely unacceptable and we will be working with the police and authorities to do everything we can to trace and prosecute the culprits.” We utterly condemn the vile abuse directed at Nicolas Pepe and Ezgjan Alioski on social media following our match against Leeds. This is completely unacceptable and we will be working with the police and authorities to do everything we can to trace and prosecute the culprits. — Arsenal (@Arsenal) November 23, 2020 × Whereas Leeds United also released a similar statement as they said they would not tolerate such abuse. The vile abuse directed at Ezgjan Alioski and Nicolas Pepe on social media after yesterday’s game with Arsenal will not be tolerated by #LUFC. We will work closely with the police and the footballing authorities to ensure those responsible are identified and punished. — Leeds United (@LUFC) November 23, 2020 × The extreme growth of social media has fueled discriminatory abuse towards footballers in recent years. ALSO READ: Liverpool's Mohamed Salah to start training after negative COVID-19 test: Jurgen Klopp The likes of Patrick van Aanholt and winger Wilfried Zaha are among the players who have urged the authorities to take stricter action against racism after they were targeted. Manchester United’s Marcus Rashford, Paul Pogba; Manchester City’s Raheem Sterling and many other players from the Premier League and other European Leagues have suffered social media abuse over the years on the basis of their on-field or off-field life.

'Completely unacceptable': Arsenal, Leeds condemn online abuse of Pepe, Alioski

Team India fast bowler Mohammed Siraj is completely focused on fulfilling his late father’s wish to represent the country and win matches for India. Siraj is in the Indian squad for the four-match Test series against Australia in what is his maiden Test call-up to the Indian team. However, before he could wear the India whites, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/mohammed-sirajs-father-passes-away-indian-pacer-unable-to-travel-to-india-344375">Siraj lost his ‘biggest supporter’ – father Mohammed Ghouse – on Friday</a>.

Ghouse, aged 53, was admitted to a hospital when Siraj was playing in the Indian Premier League (IPL).

However, after the demise of his father on Friday, the BCCI gave a chance to Siraj to return home to be with his bereaved family. But the Indian pacer decided to stay with the team and perform his national duties in a bid to make his late father proud.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-tv-viewership-reached-3157-million-average-impressions-star-india-344359" hreflang="en">IPL TV viewership reached 31.57 million average impressions: Star India</a>

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Want to fulfill my father's dream: Siraj 
 
The fast bowler speaks about overcoming personal loss and why he decided to continue performing national duties in Australia. Interview by <a href="https://twitter.com/Moulinparikh?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Moulinparikh</a> 
 
Full interview 👉<a href="https://t.co/xv8ohMYneK">https://t.co/xv8ohMYneK</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/UAOVgivbx1">pic.twitter.com/UAOVgivbx1</a>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1330834262036123648?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 23, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Speaking on bcci.tv, Mohammed Siraj, on Monday, termed his father his ‘biggest supporter’ and said that his death is a big loss for him. Siraj also revealed his mother’s message for him ahead of the Test series against Australia.&nbsp;

“It is a very big loss for me because he was my biggest supporter. My father’s wish was to see me play for India and make the nation proud. Now, all I want to do is fulfil my father’s dream,” Mohammed Siraj told bcci.tv on Monday.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/novak-djokovics-positive-covid-19-test-nearly-led-to-ipl-2020-cancellation-344851" hreflang="en">Novak Djokovic's positive COVID-19 test nearly led to IPL 2020 cancellation</a>

“Even though my father is no more in this world, he is still with me in my heart. I talked to my mother who reminded me of my father’s dream and encouraged me to perform well for Team India,” he added. 
Siraj further said how the Indian teammates have supported him in these tough times while revealing skipper Virat Kohli’s message to him.&nbsp;

“My team members have supported me like a family in this situation. Virat [Kohli] bhai encouraged me and told me to stay strong and fulfil my father’s dream,” the 26-year-old said.

After three ODIs and as many T20Is, India and Australia will lock horns in the four-Test Border-Gavaskar series starting from December 17. 
&nbsp;

Team India fast bowler Mohammed Siraj is completely focused on fulfilling his late father’s wish to represent the country and win matches for India. Siraj is in the Indian squad for the four-match Test series against Australia in what is his maiden Test call-up to the Indian team.

Team India fast bowler Mohammed Siraj is completely focused on fulfilling his late father’s wish to represent the country and win matches for India. Siraj is in the Indian squad for the four-match Test series against Australia in what is his maiden Test call-up to the Indian team. However, before he could wear the India whites, Siraj lost his ‘biggest supporter’ – father Mohammed Ghouse – on Friday. Ghouse, aged 53, was admitted to a hospital when Siraj was playing in the Indian Premier League (IPL). However, after the demise of his father on Friday, the BCCI gave a chance to Siraj to return home to be with his bereaved family. But the Indian pacer decided to stay with the team and perform his national duties in a bid to make his late father proud. ALSO READ: IPL TV viewership reached 31.57 million average impressions: Star India Want to fulfill my father's dream: Siraj The fast bowler speaks about overcoming personal loss and why he decided to continue performing national duties in Australia. Interview by @Moulinparikh Full interview 👉https://t.co/xv8ohMYneK #AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/UAOVgivbx1 — BCCI (@BCCI) November 23, 2020 × Speaking on bcci.tv, Mohammed Siraj, on Monday, termed his father his ‘biggest supporter’ and said that his death is a big loss for him. Siraj also revealed his mother’s message for him ahead of the Test series against Australia. “It is a very big loss for me because he was my biggest supporter. My father’s wish was to see me play for India and make the nation proud. Now, all I want to do is fulfil my father’s dream,” Mohammed Siraj told bcci.tv on Monday. ALSO READ: Novak Djokovic's positive COVID-19 test nearly led to IPL 2020 cancellation “Even though my father is no more in this world, he is still with me in my heart. I talked to my mother who reminded me of my father’s dream and encouraged me to perform well for Team India,” he added. Siraj further said how the Indian teammates have supported him in these tough times while revealing skipper Virat Kohli’s message to him. “My team members have supported me like a family in this situation. Virat [Kohli] bhai encouraged me and told me to stay strong and fulfil my father’s dream,” the 26-year-old said. After three ODIs and as many T20Is, India and Australia will lock horns in the four-Test Border-Gavaskar series starting from December 17.

India's Mohammed Siraj opens up on the loss of his father, says 'want to fulfil his dream'

South Africa international defender Anele Ngcongca on Monday died in a car accident, his Premier Soccer League club AmaZulu have confirmed. Ngcongca, 33, was a member of the South African football squad at the 2010 FIFA World Cup and started in the memorable 2-1 win against France.&nbsp;

Ngcongca, represented South Africa 53 times over seven years with his last appearance coming in the year 2016. The defender also spent nine seasons at Belgian club Genk, competing in the UEFA Champions League in five of those seasons and went on to make 279 appearances.

Notably, Ngcongca – a right-back – was named in Genk’s Team of the Century in 2015 alongside Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois and Man City midfielder Kevin De Bruyne.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/lewis-hamilton-set-to-be-awarded-knighthood-in-new-years-honours-list-344844" hreflang="en">Lewis Hamilton set to be awarded knighthood in New Year's Honours List</a>

Ngcongca was a passenger in a vehicle as it lost control on a highway 50 kilometres north of Durban. The female driver is said to be in critical condition in hospital.

Paul Herbst of IPPS Medical Rescue said that on the arrival of IPSS advanced life support paramedics, an adult male was found lying approximately 30 meters from the wrecked vehicle. The paramedics declared him dead after the man showed no signs of life.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/novak-djokovics-positive-covid-19-test-nearly-led-to-ipl-2020-cancellation-344851" hreflang="en">Novak Djokovic's positive COVID-19 test nearly led to IPL 2020 cancellation</a>

“On arrival of IPSS advanced life support paramedics, they found an adult male lying approximately 30m from the wrecked vehicle. The man showed no signs of life and was declared dead by paramedics,” Paul Herbst of IPSS Medical Rescue said in a statement.

The untimely death of Anele Ngcongca&nbsp;comes as a massive shock for the worldwide footballing community.

South Africa international defender Anele Ngcongca on Monday died in a car accident, his Premier Soccer League club AmaZulu have confirmed. Ngcongca, 33, was a member of the South African football squad at the 2010 FIFA World Cup and started in the memorable 2-1 win against France.

South Africa international defender Anele Ngcongca on Monday died in a car accident, his Premier Soccer League club AmaZulu have confirmed. Ngcongca, 33, was a member of the South African football squad at the 2010 FIFA World Cup and started in the memorable 2-1 win against France. Ngcongca, represented South Africa 53 times over seven years with his last appearance coming in the year 2016. The defender also spent nine seasons at Belgian club Genk, competing in the UEFA Champions League in five of those seasons and went on to make 279 appearances. Notably, Ngcongca – a right-back – was named in Genk’s Team of the Century in 2015 alongside Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois and Man City midfielder Kevin De Bruyne. ALSO READ: Lewis Hamilton set to be awarded knighthood in New Year's Honours List Ngcongca was a passenger in a vehicle as it lost control on a highway 50 kilometres north of Durban. The female driver is said to be in critical condition in hospital. Paul Herbst of IPPS Medical Rescue said that on the arrival of IPSS advanced life support paramedics, an adult male was found lying approximately 30 meters from the wrecked vehicle. The paramedics declared him dead after the man showed no signs of life. ALSO READ: Novak Djokovic's positive COVID-19 test nearly led to IPL 2020 cancellation “On arrival of IPSS advanced life support paramedics, they found an adult male lying approximately 30m from the wrecked vehicle. The man showed no signs of life and was declared dead by paramedics,” Paul Herbst of IPSS Medical Rescue said in a statement. The untimely death of Anele Ngcongca comes as a massive shock for the worldwide footballing community.

Footballer Anele Ngcongca, 33, killed in car accident

South Africa pacer Kagiso Rabada on Monday said that it was a team decision to not take the knee in their upcoming white-ball series against England.

Last week, Proteas coach Mark Boucher had revealed that the team would not be kneeling to show support towards the Black Lives Matter movement rather they would be extending support to the issues that the country`s president Cyril Ramaphosa has raised.

"Black Lives Matter is one-hundred percent something I will always stand for and I speak for myself. It was a team decision not to kneel and to look at gender-based violence and devote ourselves to another cause," ESPNCricinfo quoted Rabada as saying.

"However, Black Lives Matter will always be relevant and something I will always believe in and I speak for myself there. But, Mark has stated that the team will not be kneeling and that`s how it`s going to be," he added.

However, Boucher also said that the Proteas players will consider wearing a black armband to show solidarity with the fight against gender-based violence and in memory of the victims of COVID-19, in line with a call made by Ramaphosa to declare November 25-29 national days of mourning.

During the 3TC game in July, players and all support staff including the director of cricket Graeme Smith wore black arm-bands and took a knee before the match to extend support to the Black Lives Matter (BLM) movement.

Earlier this year, 31 former and current Proteas cricketers had signed a letter showcasing their support towards the Black Lives Matter campaign and pacer Lungi Ngidi.

Following this, Cricket South Africa (CSA), its board of directors and executive committee had reaffirmed their support towards the BLM movement, and its relevance in South Africa.

"We note the claims of discrimination and racism that have been made by current and former players and coaches, and we acknowledge that these are a part of the sport`s past, and sadly, its present. We have to face the reality, as management and custodians of the game, that we need to come up with creative, tangible, and meaningful ways to address this -- even more, than we have done already -- to make sure that they are not part of our future," the CSA had said in an official statement in July.

South Africa and England are slated to lock horns against each other in three T20Is and three ODIs, starting November 27 in Cape Town.

South Africa pacer Kagiso Rabada on Monday said that it was a team decision to not take the knee in their upcoming white-ball series against England. Last week, Proteas coach Mark Boucher had revealed that the team would not be kneeling to show support towards the Black Lives Matter movement rather they would be extending support to the issues that the country`s president Cyril Ramaphosa has raised.

South Africa pacer Kagiso Rabada on Monday said that it was a team decision to not take the knee in their upcoming white-ball series against England. Last week, Proteas coach Mark Boucher had revealed that the team would not be kneeling to show support towards the Black Lives Matter movement rather they would be extending support to the issues that the country`s president Cyril Ramaphosa has raised. "Black Lives Matter is one-hundred percent something I will always stand for and I speak for myself. It was a team decision not to kneel and to look at gender-based violence and devote ourselves to another cause," ESPNCricinfo quoted Rabada as saying. "However, Black Lives Matter will always be relevant and something I will always believe in and I speak for myself there. But, Mark has stated that the team will not be kneeling and that`s how it`s going to be," he added. However, Boucher also said that the Proteas players will consider wearing a black armband to show solidarity with the fight against gender-based violence and in memory of the victims of COVID-19, in line with a call made by Ramaphosa to declare November 25-29 national days of mourning. During the 3TC game in July, players and all support staff including the director of cricket Graeme Smith wore black arm-bands and took a knee before the match to extend support to the Black Lives Matter (BLM) movement. Earlier this year, 31 former and current Proteas cricketers had signed a letter showcasing their support towards the Black Lives Matter campaign and pacer Lungi Ngidi. Following this, Cricket South Africa (CSA), its board of directors and executive committee had reaffirmed their support towards the BLM movement, and its relevance in South Africa. "We note the claims of discrimination and racism that have been made by current and former players and coaches, and we acknowledge that these are a part of the sport`s past, and sadly, its present. We have to face the reality, as management and custodians of the game, that we need to come up with creative, tangible, and meaningful ways to address this -- even more, than we have done already -- to make sure that they are not part of our future," the CSA had said in an official statement in July. South Africa and England are slated to lock horns against each other in three T20Is and three ODIs, starting November 27 in Cape Town.

SA vs Eng: Team decision to not take the knee, says Rabada

Liverpool’s talismanic forward Mohamed Salah can return back to training after testing negative for COVID-19, manager Jurgen Klopp has confirmed. Salah missed Liverpool’s 3-0 win over Leicester City&nbsp;in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/premier-league">Premier League</a> after contracting the coronavirus but has now tested negative.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/liverpool-star-mohamed-salah-tests-positive-for-covid-19-343028">Salah had tested positive for COVID-19</a>&nbsp;while on international duty with Egypt last week. Klopp said that Salah has tested negative and can re-join the training group as Liverpool gear up for gruelling fixtures in the Premier League, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/uefa-champions-league">UEFA Champions League</a> and other competitions. He further said that there are two more tests lined-up for the next two days.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-klopp-wants-five-subs-rule-ahead-of-busy-christmas-schedule-344673" hreflang="en">Premier League: Klopp wants five subs rule ahead of busy Christmas schedule</a>

<h2>Salah can train with us: Jurgen Klopp</h2>

“That’s what I’ve heard, a negative,” Klopp said. “I think from now he is pretty normal in all the testing. On Monday, we have UEFA testing and I am pretty sure he will be in that.

“He can train with us. There are two tests in the next two days so he will be tested.”

Despite enjoying a sensational run of form, Liverpool continue to suffer injuries, like many other clubs around the world, as Klopp confirmed that Naby Keita had sustained a hamstring injury against Leicester, joining the likes of Virgil Van Dijk, Joe Gomez and Trent Alexander-Arnold in the sidelines. Keita was withdrawn after 53 minutes and replaced by Neco Williams.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/injury-hit-liverpool-keep-setting-records-10-man-arsenal-hold-leeds-344789" hreflang="en">Injury-hit Liverpool keep setting records, 10-man Arsenal hold Leeds</a>

“He (Keita) felt his hamstring and was not able to play on, otherwise he would have stayed on the pitch,” Klopp said.

Liverpool will next take on Atalanta in the UEFA Champions League on Wednesday before locking horns with Brighton and Hove Albion on Saturday.

Liverpool defeated Leicester City 3-0 to second in the Premier League 2020-21 standings, equal with league leaders Tottenham Hotspur. 
&nbsp;

Liverpool’s talismanic forward Mohamed Salah can return back to training after testing negative for COVID-19, manager Jurgen Klopp has confirmed. Salah missed Liverpool’s 3-0 win over Leicester City in the Premier League after contracting the coronavirus but has now tested negative.

Liverpool’s talismanic forward Mohamed Salah can return back to training after testing negative for COVID-19, manager Jurgen Klopp has confirmed. Salah missed Liverpool’s 3-0 win over Leicester City in the Premier League after contracting the coronavirus but has now tested negative. Salah had tested positive for COVID-19 while on international duty with Egypt last week. Klopp said that Salah has tested negative and can re-join the training group as Liverpool gear up for gruelling fixtures in the Premier League, UEFA Champions League and other competitions. He further said that there are two more tests lined-up for the next two days. ALSO READ: Premier League: Klopp wants five subs rule ahead of busy Christmas schedule Salah can train with us: Jurgen Klopp “That’s what I’ve heard, a negative,” Klopp said. “I think from now he is pretty normal in all the testing. On Monday, we have UEFA testing and I am pretty sure he will be in that. “He can train with us. There are two tests in the next two days so he will be tested.” Despite enjoying a sensational run of form, Liverpool continue to suffer injuries, like many other clubs around the world, as Klopp confirmed that Naby Keita had sustained a hamstring injury against Leicester, joining the likes of Virgil Van Dijk, Joe Gomez and Trent Alexander-Arnold in the sidelines. Keita was withdrawn after 53 minutes and replaced by Neco Williams. ALSO READ: Injury-hit Liverpool keep setting records, 10-man Arsenal hold Leeds “He (Keita) felt his hamstring and was not able to play on, otherwise he would have stayed on the pitch,” Klopp said. Liverpool will next take on Atalanta in the UEFA Champions League on Wednesday before locking horns with Brighton and Hove Albion on Saturday. Liverpool defeated Leicester City 3-0 to second in the Premier League 2020-21 standings, equal with league leaders Tottenham Hotspur.

Liverpool's Mohamed Salah to start training after negative COVID-19 test: Jurgen Klopp

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