Players should stop heading the ball during training sessions if research proves it leads to dementia when they age-old, several <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/premier-league">Premier League</a> managers have touched upon the topic when it came to the fore after the demise of England’s Nobby Stiles.

Stiles and many of his 1966 World Cup-winning teammates had been diagnosed with dementia before their deaths. Whereas Manchester United legend Bobby Charlton, 83, was recently diagnosed.

While Stiles’ family hoped it would lead the way to address dementia whereas Geoff Hurst, England’s hat-trick star from the 1966 final said that kids shouldn’t be doing it at all as heading the ball often in practice was dangerous.&nbsp;

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“If they find out through the research that heading the ball 10 times during training is going to cause you dementia, then let’s stop it,” West Bromwich Albion boss Slaven Bilic told reporters.

“For me, the great thing is they are talking about it and recognising it.”

Chelsea manager Frank Lampard said he is now looking at how his players train and favoured rules to stop heading in youth football before putting out guidelines for top-tier football.&nbsp;

“The rules need to be stronger to make sure we’re not making younger children head it if they don’t need to,” Lampard said.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/uefa-champions-league-sergio-ramos-ruled-out-of-real-madrid-vs-inter-milan-clash-344316" hreflang="en">UEFA Champions League: Sergio Ramos ruled out of Real Madrid vs Inter Milan clash</a>

“We have to start with youth football. When children are developing, we can control the levels of training. Anything we can do to make things safer, we should.”

Aston Villa’s Dean Smith, whose father was diagnosed with dementia&nbsp;before passing away due to COVID-19, echoed Bilic’s view about needing more research.

“Dementia and Alzheimer’s is more prevalent throughout the world now, unfortunately, but I think if there is a correlation between heading a football and dementia then we need to do something,” Smith said.

“The balls were heavier back then. We are all saddened about the former players who are suffering with dementia.”

Players should stop heading the ball during training sessions if research proves it leads to dementia when they age-old, several Premier League managers have touched upon the topic when it came to the fore after the demise of England’s Nobby Stiles.

Players should stop heading the ball during training sessions if research proves it leads to dementia when they age-old, several Premier League managers have touched upon the topic when it came to the fore after the demise of England’s Nobby Stiles. Stiles and many of his 1966 World Cup-winning teammates had been diagnosed with dementia before their deaths. Whereas Manchester United legend Bobby Charlton, 83, was recently diagnosed. While Stiles’ family hoped it would lead the way to address dementia whereas Geoff Hurst, England’s hat-trick star from the 1966 final said that kids shouldn’t be doing it at all as heading the ball often in practice was dangerous. ALSO READ: 'We have to respect': Barcelona coach Ronald Koeman defends Lionel Messi “If they find out through the research that heading the ball 10 times during training is going to cause you dementia, then let’s stop it,” West Bromwich Albion boss Slaven Bilic told reporters. “For me, the great thing is they are talking about it and recognising it.” Chelsea manager Frank Lampard said he is now looking at how his players train and favoured rules to stop heading in youth football before putting out guidelines for top-tier football. “The rules need to be stronger to make sure we’re not making younger children head it if they don’t need to,” Lampard said. ALSO READ: UEFA Champions League: Sergio Ramos ruled out of Real Madrid vs Inter Milan clash “We have to start with youth football. When children are developing, we can control the levels of training. Anything we can do to make things safer, we should.” Aston Villa’s Dean Smith, whose father was diagnosed with dementia before passing away due to COVID-19, echoed Bilic’s view about needing more research. “Dementia and Alzheimer’s is more prevalent throughout the world now, unfortunately, but I think if there is a correlation between heading a football and dementia then we need to do something,” Smith said. “The balls were heavier back then. We are all saddened about the former players who are suffering with dementia.”

No heading! Premier League managers want headers to be curbed if it leads to dementia

The father of Indian cricket team’s pacer Mohammed Siraj – Mohammed Ghous – breathed his last on Friday due to lung ailment in Hyderabad. Siraj, who is part of the Indian squad for the Australia tour, won’t be able to attend the last rites of his father due to the stringent quarantine rules set by the Australian government.&nbsp;

Siraj was informed about the tragedy after returning from the practice session. He is currently training with the national team in Sydney.&nbsp;

“My dad's wish was always this - mera beta, desh ka naam roshan karna (my son, you should make my country proud). And, I will do that for sure,” Siraj, who lost his elder brother when he was just seven, was quoted as saying by Sportstar.&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>

“I know what kind of hardship my dad faced in my early days driving an auto rickshaw to let me pursue my passion for the game,” said Siraj, who climbed up through the ranks from the bylanes of Toli Chowki.

Siraj has been picking wickets in Ranji Trophy consistently and picked up 41 wickets in the 2016-17 season. He was then picked up by Sunrisers Hyderabad before moving to Royal Challengers Bangalore where he was among wickets in recently concluded IPL 2020

In IPL 2020, when Mohammed Siraj bowled the dream spell against KKR, where he ended up with 4-2-8-3, his father was admitted to the hospital a night before. Despite being a worried, Siraj ended up winning the match for his team RCB and won the Man of the Match.

<h2>I lost the biggest support of my life: Mohammed Siraj on his father's demise</h2>

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rahane-doesnt-need-to-change-his-game-or-personality-warns-harbhajan-singh-344324" hreflang="en">'Rahane doesn't need to change his game or personality', warns Harbhajan Singh</a>

“It is shocking. I lost the biggest support of my life. It was his dream to see me play for the country and I am glad that way I could realise that and bring joy for him,” a distraught Siraj informed.

“The coach Shastri Sir and captain Virat Kohli were informed about the news. They just told me to be bold and are lending all the support,” Siraj said.

However, the strict quarantine rules won’t allow Siraj to travel to India for his father’s last rites. 
&nbsp;

The father of Indian cricket team’s pacer Mohammed Siraj – Mohammed Ghous – breathed his last on Friday due to lung ailment in Hyderabad. Siraj, who is part of the Indian squad for the Australia tour, won’t be able to attend the last rites of his father due to the stringent quarantine rules set by the Australian government.

The father of Indian cricket team’s pacer Mohammed Siraj – Mohammed Ghous – breathed his last on Friday due to lung ailment in Hyderabad. Siraj, who is part of the Indian squad for the Australia tour, won’t be able to attend the last rites of his father due to the stringent quarantine rules set by the Australian government. Siraj was informed about the tragedy after returning from the practice session. He is currently training with the national team in Sydney. “My dad's wish was always this - mera beta, desh ka naam roshan karna (my son, you should make my country proud). And, I will do that for sure,” Siraj, who lost his elder brother when he was just seven, was quoted as saying by Sportstar. ALSO READ: IPL TV viewership reached 31.57 million average impressions: Star India “I know what kind of hardship my dad faced in my early days driving an auto rickshaw to let me pursue my passion for the game,” said Siraj, who climbed up through the ranks from the bylanes of Toli Chowki. Siraj has been picking wickets in Ranji Trophy consistently and picked up 41 wickets in the 2016-17 season. He was then picked up by Sunrisers Hyderabad before moving to Royal Challengers Bangalore where he was among wickets in recently concluded IPL 2020 In IPL 2020, when Mohammed Siraj bowled the dream spell against KKR, where he ended up with 4-2-8-3, his father was admitted to the hospital a night before. Despite being a worried, Siraj ended up winning the match for his team RCB and won the Man of the Match. I lost the biggest support of my life: Mohammed Siraj on his father's demise ALSO READ: 'Rahane doesn't need to change his game or personality', warns Harbhajan Singh “It is shocking. I lost the biggest support of my life. It was his dream to see me play for the country and I am glad that way I could realise that and bring joy for him,” a distraught Siraj informed. “The coach Shastri Sir and captain Virat Kohli were informed about the news. They just told me to be bold and are lending all the support,” Siraj said. However, the strict quarantine rules won’t allow Siraj to travel to India for his father’s last rites.

Mohammed Siraj's father passes away, Indian pacer unable to travel to India

Star India, the official broadcasters of Indian Premier League, claimed that there has been a 23 percent rise in TV viewership with a staggering 31.57 million average impressions during the marquee T20 event.

The data has been sourced from Broadcast Audience Research Council (BARC) India and the coverage in five regional languages --- Hindi, Bengali, Telugu, Tamil and Kannada has only helped the rise in viewership.

According to the channel, the recently-concluded edition saw an impressive viewership growth of 24 percent among women and 20 percent among children respectively.

"Season 13 witnessed innovative programming, world-class production - both remote and on-ground," said Sanjog Gupta, Head - Sports, Star India.

"This wouldn't have been possible without the fantastic work done by the team at BCCI in staging the tournament under extenuating circumstances and seamless functioning from our teams inside the bio-secure bubbles in India and UAE."

Star India, the official broadcasters of Indian Premier League, claimed that there has been a 23 percent rise in TV viewership with a staggering 31.57 million average impressions during the marquee T20 event.

Star India, the official broadcasters of Indian Premier League, claimed that there has been a 23 percent rise in TV viewership with a staggering 31.57 million average impressions during the marquee T20 event. The data has been sourced from Broadcast Audience Research Council (BARC) India and the coverage in five regional languages --- Hindi, Bengali, Telugu, Tamil and Kannada has only helped the rise in viewership. According to the channel, the recently-concluded edition saw an impressive viewership growth of 24 percent among women and 20 percent among children respectively. "Season 13 witnessed innovative programming, world-class production - both remote and on-ground," said Sanjog Gupta, Head - Sports, Star India. "This wouldn't have been possible without the fantastic work done by the team at BCCI in staging the tournament under extenuating circumstances and seamless functioning from our teams inside the bio-secure bubbles in India and UAE."

IPL TV viewership reached 31.57 million average impressions: Star India

India vs Australia ODI series: 5 key players to watch out for

Real Madrid skipper Sergio Ramos has been ruled of their <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/uefa-champions-league">UEFA Champions League</a> match against Inter Milan due to a hamstring injury. Real had won their first leg 3-2 against Inter Milan with Ramos being one of their goalscorers. The Los Blancos will take on Inter Milan in the second leg of the UEFA Champions League group stage on November 26.&nbsp;

Ramos suffered the hamstring blow during Spain’s 6-0 thrashing of Germany in their Nations League match on November 18 and was replaced by Manchester City’s Eric Garcia just before the half-time break.&nbsp;

<h2>Ramos'&nbsp;recovery will continue to be assessed: Real Madrid</h2>

“After the tests carried out on Sergio Ramos by the Real Madrid medical department, the player has been diagnosed with a strained hamstring in his right leg. His recovery will continue to be assessed,” Real Madrid said in a statement.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/huge-tests-for-real-barca-a-milestone-for-flick-what-to-watch-in-europe-this-weekend-344261" hreflang="en">Huge tests for Real, Barca, a milestone for Flick - what to watch in Europe this weekend</a>

According to reports, Ramos will also miss their La Liga match this weekend against Villareal.&nbsp; 
The worrisome part for Real Madrid is that they have lost seven of their last eight UCL matches which Ramos has missed.

Ramos’ defensive partner Raphael Varane will also undergo a late fitness test on Friday after damaging his shoulder during the international break. Nacho Fernandez is also set for an assessment after limping off in last month’s El Clasico against Barcelona.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/spurs-face-title-test-wounded-liverpool-host-leaders-leicester-344262" hreflang="en">Spurs face title test, wounded Liverpool host leaders Leicester</a>

Good news for Real Madrid is that Eder Militao has tested negative for COVID-19. Militao, Casemiro and Eden Hazard have all been given a green signal to resume training after testing positive before the international break.

Real Madrid will next play Alaves, Shakhtar Donetsk, Sevilla, Borussia Monchengladbach and Atletico in the upcoming three weeks.

Real Madrid skipper Sergio Ramos has been ruled of their UEFA Champions League match against Inter Milan due to a hamstring injury. Real had won their first leg 3-2 against Inter Milan with Ramos being one of their goalscorers.

Real Madrid skipper Sergio Ramos has been ruled of their UEFA Champions League match against Inter Milan due to a hamstring injury. Real had won their first leg 3-2 against Inter Milan with Ramos being one of their goalscorers. The Los Blancos will take on Inter Milan in the second leg of the UEFA Champions League group stage on November 26. Ramos suffered the hamstring blow during Spain’s 6-0 thrashing of Germany in their Nations League match on November 18 and was replaced by Manchester City’s Eric Garcia just before the half-time break. Ramos' recovery will continue to be assessed: Real Madrid “After the tests carried out on Sergio Ramos by the Real Madrid medical department, the player has been diagnosed with a strained hamstring in his right leg. His recovery will continue to be assessed,” Real Madrid said in a statement. ALSO READ: Huge tests for Real, Barca, a milestone for Flick - what to watch in Europe this weekend According to reports, Ramos will also miss their La Liga match this weekend against Villareal. The worrisome part for Real Madrid is that they have lost seven of their last eight UCL matches which Ramos has missed. Ramos’ defensive partner Raphael Varane will also undergo a late fitness test on Friday after damaging his shoulder during the international break. Nacho Fernandez is also set for an assessment after limping off in last month’s El Clasico against Barcelona. ALSO READ: Spurs face title test, wounded Liverpool host leaders Leicester Good news for Real Madrid is that Eder Militao has tested negative for COVID-19. Militao, Casemiro and Eden Hazard have all been given a green signal to resume training after testing positive before the international break. Real Madrid will next play Alaves, Shakhtar Donetsk, Sevilla, Borussia Monchengladbach and Atletico in the upcoming three weeks.

UEFA Champions League: Sergio Ramos ruled out of Real Madrid vs Inter Milan clash

Pacer Josh Hazlewood has said that ‘tiring out’ Jasprit Bumrah will be crucial to Australia in the upcoming four-match Test series on their home soil against India. When India visited Down Under in 2018-19, the became the first team to win a Test series on Australian soil wherein Bumrah scalped a whopping 21 wickets at an average of 17 and ended up being the leading wicket-taker in the series.

"Bumrah is probably the standout. He is unique with his action," Hazlewood told Hindustan Times. "He maintains pace very well throughout the day and the whole series. He is probably the key. He can take wickets up front or with the old ball. I guess it's about getting a lot of overs into him, try to tire him out in the first couple of games. That will be the key."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/aus-vs-ind-tickets-sold-out-for-3-t20is-and-2-odis-on-first-day-of-booking-344279" hreflang="en">AUS vs IND: Tickets sold out for 3 T20Is and 2 ODIs on first day of booking</a>

In the previous series, the troika of Bumrah, Ishant Sharma and Mohammed Shami aggregated 48 wickets in comparison to Australian trio of Hazlewood, Mitchell Starc and Pat Cummins who picked up 40 wickets.

Meanwhile, Ishant Sharma is yet to join the Indian contingent in Australia and is currently training at the National Cricket Academy in Bengaluru after suffering an abdominal muscle tear during IPL 2020. However, he is expected to be fit in time for the Test series.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pat-cummins-names-big-wicket-in-india-vs-australia-series-344274" hreflang="en">Pat Cummins names 'big wicket' in India vs Australia series</a>

"They outbowled us the last time they came. That went a long way for them in winning the series," Hazlewood said. "They have most bases covered with their quicks. If Ishant Sharma gets here at some point it will add to their strength. They are all a little bit different. For the last 10-15 years, Indian pacers have kept improving. Our batters will have to be on their toes to counter that."

India will commence the Australian tour with a three-match ODI series starting November 27. 
&nbsp;

Pacer Josh Hazlewood has said that ‘tiring out’ Jasprit Bumrah will be crucial to Australia in the upcoming four-match Test series on their home soil against India.

Pacer Josh Hazlewood has said that ‘tiring out’ Jasprit Bumrah will be crucial to Australia in the upcoming four-match Test series on their home soil against India. When India visited Down Under in 2018-19, the became the first team to win a Test series on Australian soil wherein Bumrah scalped a whopping 21 wickets at an average of 17 and ended up being the leading wicket-taker in the series. "Bumrah is probably the standout. He is unique with his action," Hazlewood told Hindustan Times. "He maintains pace very well throughout the day and the whole series. He is probably the key. He can take wickets up front or with the old ball. I guess it's about getting a lot of overs into him, try to tire him out in the first couple of games. That will be the key." ALSO READ: AUS vs IND: Tickets sold out for 3 T20Is and 2 ODIs on first day of booking In the previous series, the troika of Bumrah, Ishant Sharma and Mohammed Shami aggregated 48 wickets in comparison to Australian trio of Hazlewood, Mitchell Starc and Pat Cummins who picked up 40 wickets. Meanwhile, Ishant Sharma is yet to join the Indian contingent in Australia and is currently training at the National Cricket Academy in Bengaluru after suffering an abdominal muscle tear during IPL 2020. However, he is expected to be fit in time for the Test series. ALSO READ: Pat Cummins names 'big wicket' in India vs Australia series "They outbowled us the last time they came. That went a long way for them in winning the series," Hazlewood said. "They have most bases covered with their quicks. If Ishant Sharma gets here at some point it will add to their strength. They are all a little bit different. For the last 10-15 years, Indian pacers have kept improving. Our batters will have to be on their toes to counter that." India will commence the Australian tour with a three-match ODI series starting November 27.

'Tiring out' Jasprit Bumrah will be crucial for Australia: Josh Hazlewood

Cricket Australia on Friday announced that the tickets for three T20Is and two ODIs between India and Australia have been sold out after it went on sale on Friday morning.&nbsp;

Both Sydney Cricket Ground and Manuka Oval are set to welcome fans at a 50 per cent capacity for series. Only 1,900 public seats are left for the first ODI on November 27 at the iconic Sydney Cricket Ground.

"The second and third ODIs at the SCG and Manuka Oval respectively have been exhausted while the Manuka Oval T20I and two SCG T20Is are sold out," CA said in a release.

"Limited tickets to the first ODI on November 27 at the SCG remain, with approximately 1,900 public seats left. Both the SCG and Manuka Oval will be at 50 per cent capacity for series, with fans voting with their feet after ticket prices were frozen from the last time India came to Australia in 2018/19," it added.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pat-cummins-names-big-wicket-in-india-vs-australia-series-344274" hreflang="en">Pat Cummins names 'big wicket' in India vs Australia series</a>

Anthony Everard, Cricket Australia`s Executive General Manager of Fan Engagement, said that it showed the excitement for cricket as Australia home calendar commences.

"The rivalry between the Australian and Indian men`s cricket teams is one of the greatest in international sport and this series is shaping up as an epic," Everard said.

"It`s been fantastic to see so much interest in the ODI and T20I Series, with the high demand starting from yesterday with our pre-sale period offered to the Australian Cricket Family. It didn`t take long today for things to move quickly, with now just a couple of thousand tickets remaining for the first ODI on November 27 at the SCG," he added.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-test-championship-finalists-to-be-decided-by-percentage-of-points-earned-report-344180" hreflang="en">World Test Championship finalists to be decided by percentage of points earned: report</a>

Cricket ACT CEO James Allsopp said that ahead of two T20Is in Canberra, real excitement is building.

"It is fantastic to have such high-quality international cricket coming to the ACT this summer and I am not surprised that fans have acted so quickly to ensure they have a seat," he said.

"Both games at Manuka are going to be fierce contests, and we look forward to welcoming the Australian and Indian teams to Canberra. With such high demand, it`s inevitable that some fans may have missed out, but there is plenty of other cricket to come with BBL matches in Canberra," Allsopp added.

India’s tour of Australia kickstarts with three ODIs on November 27, 29 and December 2. The first T20I is due to be hosted by Canberra on December 4 with the remaining two on December 6 and 8 at the SCG.

Following the limited-overs series, India and Australia will play four Test as a part of the World Test Championship with the final scheduled in June 2021. 
&nbsp;

Cricket Australia on Friday announced that the tickets for three T20Is and two ODIs between India and Australia have been sold out after it went on sale on Friday morning.

Cricket Australia on Friday announced that the tickets for three T20Is and two ODIs between India and Australia have been sold out after it went on sale on Friday morning. Both Sydney Cricket Ground and Manuka Oval are set to welcome fans at a 50 per cent capacity for series. Only 1,900 public seats are left for the first ODI on November 27 at the iconic Sydney Cricket Ground. "The second and third ODIs at the SCG and Manuka Oval respectively have been exhausted while the Manuka Oval T20I and two SCG T20Is are sold out," CA said in a release. "Limited tickets to the first ODI on November 27 at the SCG remain, with approximately 1,900 public seats left. Both the SCG and Manuka Oval will be at 50 per cent capacity for series, with fans voting with their feet after ticket prices were frozen from the last time India came to Australia in 2018/19," it added. ALSO READ: Pat Cummins names 'big wicket' in India vs Australia series Anthony Everard, Cricket Australia`s Executive General Manager of Fan Engagement, said that it showed the excitement for cricket as Australia home calendar commences. "The rivalry between the Australian and Indian men`s cricket teams is one of the greatest in international sport and this series is shaping up as an epic," Everard said. "It`s been fantastic to see so much interest in the ODI and T20I Series, with the high demand starting from yesterday with our pre-sale period offered to the Australian Cricket Family. It didn`t take long today for things to move quickly, with now just a couple of thousand tickets remaining for the first ODI on November 27 at the SCG," he added. ALSO READ: World Test Championship finalists to be decided by percentage of points earned: report Cricket ACT CEO James Allsopp said that ahead of two T20Is in Canberra, real excitement is building. "It is fantastic to have such high-quality international cricket coming to the ACT this summer and I am not surprised that fans have acted so quickly to ensure they have a seat," he said. "Both games at Manuka are going to be fierce contests, and we look forward to welcoming the Australian and Indian teams to Canberra. With such high demand, it`s inevitable that some fans may have missed out, but there is plenty of other cricket to come with BBL matches in Canberra," Allsopp added. India’s tour of Australia kickstarts with three ODIs on November 27, 29 and December 2. The first T20I is due to be hosted by Canberra on December 4 with the remaining two on December 6 and 8 at the SCG. Following the limited-overs series, India and Australia will play four Test as a part of the World Test Championship with the final scheduled in June 2021.

AUS vs IND: Tickets sold out for 3 T20Is and 2 ODIs on first day of booking

With the two-month-long series between India and Australia commencing in a week’s time, Australian speedster Pat Cummins considers Virat Kohli as the ‘big wicket’ he would target. Cummins said that commentators talk about Kohli non-stop while hoping to keep him quiet in the limited-overs series and one Test in which the Indian skipper would be a part of.

The three-match ODI series is set to start from November 27 followed by three T20Is and four-match Test series.&nbsp;

"I think every side has that one or two batters and they are the big wickets. Most teams have their captain -- Joe Root for England, Kane Williamson for New Zealand. You feel like if you get their wickets that goes a long way in winning the game," Cummins told 'Fox Cricket'.

"He (Kohli) is always a big one. You commentators talk about him non-stop, so hopefully, we can keep him quiet," he added.

Cummins, who has been named the vice-captain of both white and red-ball squads, is currently quarantining after arriving from the UE where he played in the Indian Premier League for Kolkata Knight Riders.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/players-with-10-t20i-caps-now-eligible-for-bcci-central-contract-report-344270" hreflang="en">Players with 10 T20I caps now eligible for BCCI Central Contract: Report</a>

The quarantine period wherein there are 11 Australian players currently will end on the eve of the ODI opener against India in Sydney.

"It's good to be back here in Sydney. Obviously, we are locked down but we are let out for couple of hours a day.

"We've been in the middle of it (cricket in bio-secure bubbles) for three or four months now so we're starting to get used to it," he said.

"But it will be weird we get out Thursday night and then we will go and join the boys at a hotel but there's a good chance we won't see them until we literally turn up to the SCG on Friday."

Cummins said Australia is well prepared to give India a tough fight in the series. "It's going to be huge. Obviously, we're back here on home soil. other than spending a lot of times in hotels and bubbles I feel like our preparation has actually been really good.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-test-championship-finalists-to-be-decided-by-percentage-of-points-earned-report-344180" hreflang="en">World Test Championship finalists to be decided by percentage of points earned: report</a>

"We went over to the UK and had a good tour there. Most of the boys here have been playing 14 T20 matches in the last few weeks and the other guys coming in will be playing shrewd cricket. So, it feels like we are all firing up and got a lot of stuff behind us," he said.

On his development as a bowler over the last couple of years, "I was probably a bit quicker a few years ago but I feel like in the last couple of years I got better, learning different tempos within the game and also when I am bowling. I feel I got a bit more control on swing and seam," Cummins said.

"Whatever conditions we come up with, I have got a couple of tools I can go to."

With the two-month-long series between India and Australia commencing in a week’s time, Australian speedster Pat Cummins considers Virat Kohli as the ‘big wicket’ he would target.

With the two-month-long series between India and Australia commencing in a week’s time, Australian speedster Pat Cummins considers Virat Kohli as the ‘big wicket’ he would target. Cummins said that commentators talk about Kohli non-stop while hoping to keep him quiet in the limited-overs series and one Test in which the Indian skipper would be a part of. The three-match ODI series is set to start from November 27 followed by three T20Is and four-match Test series. "I think every side has that one or two batters and they are the big wickets. Most teams have their captain -- Joe Root for England, Kane Williamson for New Zealand. You feel like if you get their wickets that goes a long way in winning the game," Cummins told 'Fox Cricket'. "He (Kohli) is always a big one. You commentators talk about him non-stop, so hopefully, we can keep him quiet," he added. Cummins, who has been named the vice-captain of both white and red-ball squads, is currently quarantining after arriving from the UE where he played in the Indian Premier League for Kolkata Knight Riders. ALSO READ: Players with 10 T20I caps now eligible for BCCI Central Contract: Report The quarantine period wherein there are 11 Australian players currently will end on the eve of the ODI opener against India in Sydney. "It's good to be back here in Sydney. Obviously, we are locked down but we are let out for couple of hours a day. "We've been in the middle of it (cricket in bio-secure bubbles) for three or four months now so we're starting to get used to it," he said. "But it will be weird we get out Thursday night and then we will go and join the boys at a hotel but there's a good chance we won't see them until we literally turn up to the SCG on Friday." Cummins said Australia is well prepared to give India a tough fight in the series. "It's going to be huge. Obviously, we're back here on home soil. other than spending a lot of times in hotels and bubbles I feel like our preparation has actually been really good. ALSO READ: World Test Championship finalists to be decided by percentage of points earned: report "We went over to the UK and had a good tour there. Most of the boys here have been playing 14 T20 matches in the last few weeks and the other guys coming in will be playing shrewd cricket. So, it feels like we are all firing up and got a lot of stuff behind us," he said. On his development as a bowler over the last couple of years, "I was probably a bit quicker a few years ago but I feel like in the last couple of years I got better, learning different tempos within the game and also when I am bowling. I feel I got a bit more control on swing and seam," Cummins said. "Whatever conditions we come up with, I have got a couple of tools I can go to."

Pat Cummins names 'big wicket' in India vs Australia series

The National Football League has stepped up its pandemic protocols with tougher restrictions going into effect on Saturday to try and mitigate the spread of coronavirus on the same day the Las Vegas Raiders found themselves in the midst of another outbreak.

The stricter measures, which will last until the end of the season, include forcing players to wear masks during practice sessions, a strict 15-minute time limit per person in the dressing room, and making sure all players and coaches have a negative test from the previous day before being allowed into the club's facilities.

"It has been said many times that our 2020 season cannot be 'normal' because nothing about this year is normal," NFL commissioner Roger Goodell wrote in a memo to all the teams on Wednesday.

"Flexibility and adaptability have been critical to our success to date and we must continue with that approach."

The league also said in the memo that 28 of the 32 teams had already been slapped with temporary stricter measures for Covid-19 reasons. Of those 28, a total of 16 had been on them more than once.

"The upcoming holidays, beginning with Thanksgiving next week, will introduce new risks of exposure that we need to address now," Goodell said in the memo.

"Because we have a highly sophisticated program of daily testing, we know when the virus enters our facilities, which underscores the importance of contact tracing and other steps to minimize close contacts within a facility."&nbsp;

Other protocols include: all meetings held virtually unless outdoors or with pre-approval for indoors; locker room usage discouraged on non-game days; meals served on a grab-and-go basis; limits of 10 players in the weight room at one time.

According to the latest test results announced by the league earlier this week, 95 players and 175 team personnel had tested positive through November 14 since monitoring began in August.

Teams across the league have continued to report cases of Covid-19 despite safety protocols put in place this season.

On Wednesday, the Raiders placed seven more players on the Covid-19 reserve list, four days before the team is due to host the Super Bowl champion Kansas City Chiefs. Eleven Raiders players are now on the Covid list, although&nbsp;the game is expected to go ahead.

In a separate development, the Los Angeles Rams also confirmed a Covid-19 case -- the first positive case found by the team this season. The Rams said Wednesday the team had placed tight end Kendall Blanton, defensive back Jake Gervase and wide receiver J.J. Koski on the Covid-19 reserve list.

The National Football League has stepped up its pandemic protocols with tougher restrictions going into effect on Saturday to try and mitigate the spread of coronavirus on the same day the Las Vegas Raiders found themselves in the midst of another outbreak.

The National Football League has stepped up its pandemic protocols with tougher restrictions going into effect on Saturday to try and mitigate the spread of coronavirus on the same day the Las Vegas Raiders found themselves in the midst of another outbreak. The stricter measures, which will last until the end of the season, include forcing players to wear masks during practice sessions, a strict 15-minute time limit per person in the dressing room, and making sure all players and coaches have a negative test from the previous day before being allowed into the club's facilities. "It has been said many times that our 2020 season cannot be 'normal' because nothing about this year is normal," NFL commissioner Roger Goodell wrote in a memo to all the teams on Wednesday. "Flexibility and adaptability have been critical to our success to date and we must continue with that approach." The league also said in the memo that 28 of the 32 teams had already been slapped with temporary stricter measures for Covid-19 reasons. Of those 28, a total of 16 had been on them more than once. "The upcoming holidays, beginning with Thanksgiving next week, will introduce new risks of exposure that we need to address now," Goodell said in the memo. "Because we have a highly sophisticated program of daily testing, we know when the virus enters our facilities, which underscores the importance of contact tracing and other steps to minimize close contacts within a facility." Other protocols include: all meetings held virtually unless outdoors or with pre-approval for indoors; locker room usage discouraged on non-game days; meals served on a grab-and-go basis; limits of 10 players in the weight room at one time. According to the latest test results announced by the league earlier this week, 95 players and 175 team personnel had tested positive through November 14 since monitoring began in August. Teams across the league have continued to report cases of Covid-19 despite safety protocols put in place this season. On Wednesday, the Raiders placed seven more players on the Covid-19 reserve list, four days before the team is due to host the Super Bowl champion Kansas City Chiefs. Eleven Raiders players are now on the Covid list, although the game is expected to go ahead. In a separate development, the Los Angeles Rams also confirmed a Covid-19 case -- the first positive case found by the team this season. The Rams said Wednesday the team had placed tight end Kendall Blanton, defensive back Jake Gervase and wide receiver J.J. Koski on the Covid-19 reserve list.

NFL bumps up Covid-19 protocols for remainder of the season

Daniil Medvedev shocked Novak Djokovic in straight sets to book a place in the last four at the ATP Finals on Wednesday as former champion Alexander Zverev got his campaign up and running.

The Russian fourth seed went toe to toe with the world number one, winning 6-3, 6-3 in an absorbing, energy-sapping contest at London's empty O2 Arena.

Earlier, German fifth seed Zverev beat Diego Schwartzman 6-3, 4-6, 6-3, bouncing back from defeat to Medvedev in his opening Group Tokyo 1970 match.

Top seed Djokovic is seeking to match the record of six-time winner Roger Federer, who is absent from the season-ending tournament with an injury.

But Medvedev, who won the Paris Masters last week, beat Djokovic at his own game, grinding him down in a near-flawless defensive display.

The giant Russian earned a clutch of early break points and eventually made one count in the seventh game, which lasted 11 gruelling minutes.

The 24-year-old held serve easily in the next game and seized the opening set 6-3 when a rattled Djokovic double-faulted.

An increasingly confident Medvedev broke the 17-time Grand Slam champion again at the start of the second set to win his sixth game in a row in the round-robin match.

Djokovic stopped the rot on his own serve but was able to force just one break point, which he could not convert.

The victory takes Medvedev through to the semi-finals but five-time winner Djokovic still has a chance to progress in a shootout with Zverev on Friday.

"Always I like to pay Novak, first of all because he's one of the greatest champions in the history of our sport and when I was eight years old I was already watching him on TV winning Grand Slams," said Medvedev.

"He was still young -- so it was always a dream come true to play against him."

"I was serving good and playing safe enough in the most important moments and that's why I got the win," added the Russian, who lost all three of his matches on his debut last year.

<h2>- Zverev win -</h2>

Zverev, the 2018 champion, looked out of sorts in his straight-sets defeat against Medvedev on Monday and again struggled to find early rhythm in the early match in London.

The big-serving German was broken by Schwartzman in the third game but turned the tables with two breaks of his own to take the set.

Zverev who stands 28 centimetres (11 inches) taller than Schwartzman, appeared to be in control in the second set but stumbled twice on serve as his 28-year-old opponent levelled the match.

The momentum appeared to be with the Argentine but the match changed direction again in the fifth game of the decider when Zverev broke with a fine backhand volley, repeating the feat to seal the win.

"I'm excited for Friday," said Zverev. "Friday's going to be the most difficult match-up that you can have here, against Novak."

The German, who has won two titles in the coronavirus-truncated 2020 season, beat Djokovic in the final in London two years ago but is yet to win a Grand Slam.

Dominic Thiem is in charge of Group London 2020 after beating second seed Rafael Nadal on Tuesday to make it two wins out of two.

Daniil Medvedev shocked Novak Djokovic in straight sets to book a place in the last four at the ATP Finals on Wednesday as former champion Alexander Zverev got his campaign up and running.

Daniil Medvedev shocked Novak Djokovic in straight sets to book a place in the last four at the ATP Finals on Wednesday as former champion Alexander Zverev got his campaign up and running. The Russian fourth seed went toe to toe with the world number one, winning 6-3, 6-3 in an absorbing, energy-sapping contest at London's empty O2 Arena. Earlier, German fifth seed Zverev beat Diego Schwartzman 6-3, 4-6, 6-3, bouncing back from defeat to Medvedev in his opening Group Tokyo 1970 match. Top seed Djokovic is seeking to match the record of six-time winner Roger Federer, who is absent from the season-ending tournament with an injury. But Medvedev, who won the Paris Masters last week, beat Djokovic at his own game, grinding him down in a near-flawless defensive display. The giant Russian earned a clutch of early break points and eventually made one count in the seventh game, which lasted 11 gruelling minutes. The 24-year-old held serve easily in the next game and seized the opening set 6-3 when a rattled Djokovic double-faulted. An increasingly confident Medvedev broke the 17-time Grand Slam champion again at the start of the second set to win his sixth game in a row in the round-robin match. Djokovic stopped the rot on his own serve but was able to force just one break point, which he could not convert. The victory takes Medvedev through to the semi-finals but five-time winner Djokovic still has a chance to progress in a shootout with Zverev on Friday. "Always I like to pay Novak, first of all because he's one of the greatest champions in the history of our sport and when I was eight years old I was already watching him on TV winning Grand Slams," said Medvedev. "He was still young -- so it was always a dream come true to play against him." "I was serving good and playing safe enough in the most important moments and that's why I got the win," added the Russian, who lost all three of his matches on his debut last year. - Zverev win - Zverev, the 2018 champion, looked out of sorts in his straight-sets defeat against Medvedev on Monday and again struggled to find early rhythm in the early match in London. The big-serving German was broken by Schwartzman in the third game but turned the tables with two breaks of his own to take the set. Zverev who stands 28 centimetres (11 inches) taller than Schwartzman, appeared to be in control in the second set but stumbled twice on serve as his 28-year-old opponent levelled the match. The momentum appeared to be with the Argentine but the match changed direction again in the fifth game of the decider when Zverev broke with a fine backhand volley, repeating the feat to seal the win. "I'm excited for Friday," said Zverev. "Friday's going to be the most difficult match-up that you can have here, against Novak." The German, who has won two titles in the coronavirus-truncated 2020 season, beat Djokovic in the final in London two years ago but is yet to win a Grand Slam. Dominic Thiem is in charge of Group London 2020 after beating second seed Rafael Nadal on Tuesday to make it two wins out of two.

Medvedev destroys Djokovic at ATP Finals as Zverev bounces back

Romelu Lukaku helped fire Belgium into the UEFA Nations League finals by scoring twice in a 4-2 win over Denmark on Wednesday, while Italy also secured a place in the last four with victory away to Bosnia and Herzegovina.

The world's number one-ranked side, Belgium only required a draw from their last League A, Group 2 game at home to Denmark behind closed doors in Leuven and took an early lead through Youri Tielemans.

Jonas Wind equalised for Denmark, but Lukaku got a second-half double and Kevin De Bruyne made sure of the victory for Roberto Martinez's side after Thibaut Courtois allowed a Nacer Chadli back-pass to squirm under his leg and in for an own goal.

Italy secured first place in Group 1 with a 2-0 triumph in Sarajevo thanks to a goal in each half from Torino's Andrea Belotti and Domenico Berardi of Sassuolo.

That ensured they finished a point ahead of the Netherlands, who came from behind to beat Poland 2-1 away with captain Georginio Wijnaldum scoring the winner after Memphis Depay's penalty cancelled out Kamil Jozwiak's opener.

Italy and Belgium join Spain and World Cup holders France in a final tournament which is expected to be held in Italy in October next year.&nbsp;

Before the finals, European national teams will start their 2022 World Cup qualifying campaign in March and then the delayed Euro 2020 is set to go ahead next June and July.

England have more than one eye on that tournament, with the semi-finals and final scheduled for Wembley, and Gareth Southgate's team rounded out their Nations League campaign with a 4-0 win over Iceland.

Declan Rice and Mason Mount scored in the first half and Manchester City's Phil Foden got his first international goals with a late brace as England had three players aged 21 or younger score in the same match for the first time since 1883.

"It was a very difficult game. All the players were hearing messages that this is meaningless and there was nothing to play for but they did play for it," Southgate told Sky Sports.

Birkir Mar Saevarsson was sent off for Iceland who, like Bosnia, are relegated and will compete in League B in the next edition.&nbsp;

<h2>- Wales move up, Scotland miss out -</h2>

Wales won promotion to League A with a 3-1 win over 10-man Finland in Cardiff that allowed them to top Group B4.

Despite manager Ryan Giggs being missing after his recent arrest on suspicion of assaulting his girlfriend, Wales came good with goals from Harry Wilson, Daniel James and Kieffer Moore.

Teemu Pukki netted for Finland, who had left-back Jere Uronen sent off after just 12 minutes.

Winning their group also improves Wales' chances of securing a place in the 2022 World Cup qualifying play-offs, as the two best group winners in the Nations League&nbsp;are guaranteed&nbsp;play-off places if they don't&nbsp;make it via&nbsp;the usual route.

While Wales go up, Scotland missed out on promotion from League B, Group 2 after losing 1-0 in Israel, their second consecutive loss since clinching qualification for Euro 2020.

Manor Solomon's first-half goal sunk the Scots, and the Czech Republic won promotion at their expense after beating Slovakia 2-0.

"We are all disappointed with the way the week's finished," Scotland manager Steve Clarke told Sky Sports.

"It's been an historic week for Scottish football. There was no lack of endeavour. It was similar to the game on Sunday (1-0 loss in Slovakia), just a little lack of quality in the final third meant we couldn't get a goal."

Also securing promotion to the top tier were Austria, who drew 1-1 with a Norway side deprived of stars Erling Braut Haaland and Martin Odegaard after being ordered to quarantine because of a positive coronavirus test in their squad.

Hungary won promotion too thanks to a 2-0 victory over Turkey combined with a 5-0 hammering for Russia at the hands of Serbia.

The Republic of Ireland avoided relegation to League C after drawing 0-0 with Bulgaria, but Northern Ireland and Turkey were among the sides to go down, while Montenegro, Armenia, Slovenia and Albania go up to the second level.

Romelu Lukaku helped fire Belgium into the UEFA Nations League finals by scoring twice in a 4-2 win over Denmark on Wednesday, while Italy also secured a place in the last four with victory away to Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Romelu Lukaku helped fire Belgium into the UEFA Nations League finals by scoring twice in a 4-2 win over Denmark on Wednesday, while Italy also secured a place in the last four with victory away to Bosnia and Herzegovina. The world's number one-ranked side, Belgium only required a draw from their last League A, Group 2 game at home to Denmark behind closed doors in Leuven and took an early lead through Youri Tielemans. Jonas Wind equalised for Denmark, but Lukaku got a second-half double and Kevin De Bruyne made sure of the victory for Roberto Martinez's side after Thibaut Courtois allowed a Nacer Chadli back-pass to squirm under his leg and in for an own goal. Italy secured first place in Group 1 with a 2-0 triumph in Sarajevo thanks to a goal in each half from Torino's Andrea Belotti and Domenico Berardi of Sassuolo. That ensured they finished a point ahead of the Netherlands, who came from behind to beat Poland 2-1 away with captain Georginio Wijnaldum scoring the winner after Memphis Depay's penalty cancelled out Kamil Jozwiak's opener. Italy and Belgium join Spain and World Cup holders France in a final tournament which is expected to be held in Italy in October next year. Before the finals, European national teams will start their 2022 World Cup qualifying campaign in March and then the delayed Euro 2020 is set to go ahead next June and July. England have more than one eye on that tournament, with the semi-finals and final scheduled for Wembley, and Gareth Southgate's team rounded out their Nations League campaign with a 4-0 win over Iceland. Declan Rice and Mason Mount scored in the first half and Manchester City's Phil Foden got his first international goals with a late brace as England had three players aged 21 or younger score in the same match for the first time since 1883. "It was a very difficult game. All the players were hearing messages that this is meaningless and there was nothing to play for but they did play for it," Southgate told Sky Sports. Birkir Mar Saevarsson was sent off for Iceland who, like Bosnia, are relegated and will compete in League B in the next edition. - Wales move up, Scotland miss out - Wales won promotion to League A with a 3-1 win over 10-man Finland in Cardiff that allowed them to top Group B4. Despite manager Ryan Giggs being missing after his recent arrest on suspicion of assaulting his girlfriend, Wales came good with goals from Harry Wilson, Daniel James and Kieffer Moore. Teemu Pukki netted for Finland, who had left-back Jere Uronen sent off after just 12 minutes. Winning their group also improves Wales' chances of securing a place in the 2022 World Cup qualifying play-offs, as the two best group winners in the Nations League are guaranteed play-off places if they don't make it via the usual route. While Wales go up, Scotland missed out on promotion from League B, Group 2 after losing 1-0 in Israel, their second consecutive loss since clinching qualification for Euro 2020. Manor Solomon's first-half goal sunk the Scots, and the Czech Republic won promotion at their expense after beating Slovakia 2-0. "We are all disappointed with the way the week's finished," Scotland manager Steve Clarke told Sky Sports. "It's been an historic week for Scottish football. There was no lack of endeavour. It was similar to the game on Sunday (1-0 loss in Slovakia), just a little lack of quality in the final third meant we couldn't get a goal." Also securing promotion to the top tier were Austria, who drew 1-1 with a Norway side deprived of stars Erling Braut Haaland and Martin Odegaard after being ordered to quarantine because of a positive coronavirus test in their squad. Hungary won promotion too thanks to a 2-0 victory over Turkey combined with a 5-0 hammering for Russia at the hands of Serbia. The Republic of Ireland avoided relegation to League C after drawing 0-0 with Bulgaria, but Northern Ireland and Turkey were among the sides to go down, while Montenegro, Armenia, Slovenia and Albania go up to the second level.

Belgium, Italy into Nations League finals as Foden stars in England win

Liverpool and Egypt forward Mohamed Salah has returned a second positive test for coronavirus while on international duty, the Egyptian Football Association said Wednesday.

Salah had "a new swab to detect the Covid-19 virus, its result was positive”.

Arsenal player Mohamed Elneny was also re-tested and his result was also positive, the FA said.

Without Salah, Egypt beat Togo 3-1 in their 2021 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier on Tuesday and top their group.

Salah wrote on Twitter on Tuesday: "I'd like to thank everyone for the supportive messages and well wishes. I'm confident I'll be back on the field soon."

The forward, who has scored eight league goals for Liverpool this season, could miss the Premier League champions' next two matches.

They host Leicester in the league on Sunday before playing Italian side Atalanta in a Champions League tie at Anfield on November 25.

Liverpool and Egypt forward Mohamed Salah has returned a second positive test for coronavirus while on international duty, the Egyptian Football Association said Wednesday.

Liverpool and Egypt forward Mohamed Salah has returned a second positive test for coronavirus while on international duty, the Egyptian Football Association said Wednesday. Salah had "a new swab to detect the Covid-19 virus, its result was positive”. Arsenal player Mohamed Elneny was also re-tested and his result was also positive, the FA said. Without Salah, Egypt beat Togo 3-1 in their 2021 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier on Tuesday and top their group. Salah wrote on Twitter on Tuesday: "I'd like to thank everyone for the supportive messages and well wishes. I'm confident I'll be back on the field soon." The forward, who has scored eight league goals for Liverpool this season, could miss the Premier League champions' next two matches. They host Leicester in the league on Sunday before playing Italian side Atalanta in a Champions League tie at Anfield on November 25.

Liverpool's Salah tests positive for virus again

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