NBA Draft 2020 will be held virtually on Wednesday, November&nbsp;18 at 8 pm&nbsp;ET at ESPN’s studios in Bristol, Connecticut, airing live on ESPN, ESPN Radio and the ESPN App. &nbsp;ESPN’s pre-draft coverage will begin at 7:30 p.m. ET. &nbsp;

NBA Commissioner Adam Silver and Deputy Commissioner and Chief Operating Officer Mark Tatum will appear in-studio at ESPN to announce the selections for the first and second rounds, respectively. Select draftees, including many of the potential top picks, will appear virtually throughout the broadcast. &nbsp;

<h2>Here is a by-the-numbers look at this year’s NBA Draft: &nbsp;&nbsp;</h2>

History&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>1 – NBA Draft 2020&nbsp;will be the league’s first virtual draft and the first draft held at ESPN.&nbsp;</li>
	<li>7 – Seven players have played in the NBA G League before being drafted by an NBA team, the most recent being Alen Smailagić, the 39th pick in the 2019 NBA Draft by the Golden State Warriors.&nbsp;</li>
	<li>10 – A college freshman has been selected with the first overall pick in each of the last 10 drafts. &nbsp;The last non-freshman to be the first overall draft pick was Oklahoma sophomore Blake Griffin in 2009.&nbsp;</li>
	<li>14 – This marks the 14th consecutive year that Adam Silver will announce draft selections as either deputy commissioner (seven years) or commissioner (seven years including 2020).&nbsp;</li>
	<li>107 – The distance between Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York, the venue for the last seven NBA Drafts, and ESPN’s studios in Bristol, Connecticut, the site of this year’s draft, is approximately 107 miles.&nbsp;</li>
	<li>146 – The 2020 NBA Draft will take place 146 days after its originally scheduled date of June 25.&nbsp;</li>
	<li>1975 – This is the first NBA Draft not held in June since 1975.&nbsp;</li>
	<li>1989 – The current two-round format for the NBA Draft was adopted in 1989.&nbsp; 
	&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

Teams&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>1 – The Minnesota Timberwolves are set to make the first overall pick in the NBA Draft for the second time. &nbsp;In 2015, the Timberwolves used the first overall pick to select two-time NBA All-Star Karl-Anthony Towns. &nbsp;</li>
	<li>2 – The Warriors are poised to make the second overall pick in the NBA Draft for the first time in the common draft era (since 1966). &nbsp;</li>
	<li>3 – The Boston Celtics hold three first-round picks (Nos. 14, 26 and 30) after making three first-round picks last year. &nbsp;</li>
	<li>5 – The Philadelphia 76ers have a league-high five picks in this year’s draft (No. 21 in the first round and Nos. 34, 36, 49 and 58 in the second round).&nbsp;</li>
	<li>11 – With the 11th selection of the first round, the San Antonio Spurs are preparing to make their highest draft pick since selecting Tim Duncan with the first overall pick in 1997. &nbsp;</li>
</ul>

Class Superlatives&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>1 – Memphis center James Wiseman was ESPN’s No. 1-ranked high school player in the Class of 2019. &nbsp;</li>
	<li>6 – Iowa State guard Tyrese Haliburton recorded the sixth triple-double in school history during the 2019-20 season. &nbsp;</li>
	<li>8 – USC forward Onyeka Okongwu matched a single-game school record last season with eight blocked shots in his first collegiate game.&nbsp;</li>
	<li>16 – Maccabi Tel Aviv guard-forward Deni Avdija made his professional debut with his current team at age 16 (he turns 20 in January). &nbsp;</li>
	<li>19.1 – Georgia guard Anthony Edwards was the nation’s freshman scoring leader at 19.1 points per game in the 2019-20 season. &nbsp;&nbsp;</li>
	<li>107 – Dayton forward Obi Toppin, the 2019-20 consensus National Player of the Year, led the nation and set a single-season school record with 107 dunks last season.&nbsp;</li>
	<li>2005 – Last season, Illawarra Hawks guard LaMelo Ball became the first player to post triple-doubles in back-to-back games in Australia’s National Basketball League since 2005. &nbsp; &nbsp; 
	&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

Family Ties&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>5 – Duke guard Tre Jones and his brother Tyus of the Memphis Grizzlies combined to win five Gatorade Minnesota Boys Basketball Player of the Year awards in high school.&nbsp;</li>
	<li>6 – Arizona guard Nico Mannion is the son of Pace Mannion, who played six NBA seasons.&nbsp;</li>
	<li>8 – Duke center Vernon Carey Jr.’s father, Vernon Sr., played eight NFL seasons as an offensive lineman with the Miami Dolphins.&nbsp;</li>
	<li>12 – North Carolina guard Cole Anthony’s father, Greg, now a basketball analyst for Turner Sports, was the 12th pick in the 1991 NBA Draft. &nbsp;</li>
	<li>16 – Washington forward Jaden McDaniels is the brother of Charlotte Hornets forward Jalen McDaniels, who appeared in 16 NBA games as a rookie in the 2019-20 season.&nbsp;</li>
	<li>1,512 – Vanderbilt guard Saben Lee is the son of former Florida State All-America running back Amp Lee, who rushed for 1,512 yards in the NFL. &nbsp;</li>
	<li>1982 – Maccabi Tel Aviv guard-forward Deni Avdija’s father, Zufer, won a bronze medal with Yugoslavia at the 1982 FIBA Basketball World Cup.&nbsp;</li>
	<li>2000 – IMG Academy forward KJ Martin is the son of Kenyon Martin, the No. 1 overall pick in the 2000 NBA Draft.&nbsp;</li>
	<li>5.6M – Illawarra Hawks guard LaMelo Ball, the brother of the New Orleans Pelicans’ Lonzo Ball, has more than 5.6 million followers on Instagram. &nbsp; 
	&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

Global Game&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>3 – This year’s draft class has the potential to break the record (three) for most players from one Basketball Without Borders camp in the same draft. &nbsp;Killian Hayes (France), Josh Green (Australia), Leandro Bolmaro (Argentina), Paul Eboua (Cameroon) and Vit Krejčí (Czech Republic) all participated in BWB Global 2018 as part of NBA All-Star 2018.&nbsp;</li>
	<li>5 – This year’s draft class has the potential to break the record (five) for most players from Africa selected in one NBA Draft.&nbsp;</li>
	<li>7 – Seven players in this year’s draft class have ties to Nigeria. &nbsp;Kansas center Udoka Azubuike and Memphis forward Precious Achiuwa are from Nigeria, and an additional five potential draftees have at least one parent from Nigeria: Isaac Okoro (Auburn), Onyeka Okongwu (USC), Zeke Nnaji (Arizona), Daniel Oturu (Minnesota) and Jordan Nwora (Louisville).&nbsp;</li>
	<li>7/22 – Deni Avdija and Killian Hayes are seeking to become the highest-drafted players ever from Israel and France, respectively. &nbsp;If Hayes is drafted in the top seven, he will be the highest-drafted French player ever. &nbsp;If Avdija is drafted in the top 22, he will be the highest-drafted Israeli player ever. &nbsp;Avdija and Hayes competed against one another at Basketball Without Borders (BWB) Global 2019 as part of NBA All-Star 2019. &nbsp;Avdija was named MVP of the camp while Hayes was named an All-Star.&nbsp;</li>
	<li>13 – There have been 13 international players drafted No. 1 overall, most recently the Phoenix Suns’ Deandre Ayton (Bahamas) in 2018.&nbsp;</li>
	<li>27 – A record 27 international players were drafted in 2016, including a record 15 in the first round and a record-tying 12 in the second round.&nbsp;</li>
	<li>69 – Since 2001, 69 former Basketball Without Borders campers have been drafted into the NBA or signed as free agents.</li>
</ul>

Partnership/Tech&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>17 – ESPN will deliver live look-ins from 17 team draft rooms. &nbsp;</li>
	<li>18 – ESPN will present the NBA Draft for the 18th consecutive year. &nbsp;</li>
	<li>19 – Nineteen broadcast satellite trucks will be used to help present the draft, including 15 trucks throughout the U.S. and four trucks internationally to connect with prospects located in France, Greece, Israel and Spain.&nbsp;</li>
	<li>30 – In this unique year, 30 draft prospects received NBA Draft Gifting Lockers, which featured media kits (Microsoft Surface tablet, Beat Powerbeats Pro earbuds, iPhone with tripod, Ring light, Beats Pill wireless speaker) and a variety of products from NBA partners including Spalding, New Era, Beats By Dr. Dre and Oculus.&nbsp;</li>
	<li>180 – More than 180 young people from the Boys &amp; Girls Clubs of America, Learn Fresh, TAPS and Jr. NBA joined 30 Draft prospects for a NBA Cares “Road to Success” virtual community series presented State Farm® on Monday, discussing topics such as physical and mental wellness, leadership, activism, mentorship and more. &nbsp;</li>
</ul>

NBA Draft 2020 will be held virtually on Wednesday, November 18 at 8 pm ET at ESPN’s studios in Bristol, Connecticut, airing live on ESPN, ESPN Radio and the ESPN App.

NBA Draft 2020 will be held virtually on Wednesday, November 18 at 8 pm ET at ESPN’s studios in Bristol, Connecticut, airing live on ESPN, ESPN Radio and the ESPN App. ESPN’s pre-draft coverage will begin at 7:30 p.m. ET. NBA Commissioner Adam Silver and Deputy Commissioner and Chief Operating Officer Mark Tatum will appear in-studio at ESPN to announce the selections for the first and second rounds, respectively. Select draftees, including many of the potential top picks, will appear virtually throughout the broadcast. Here is a by-the-numbers look at this year’s NBA Draft: History 1 – NBA Draft 2020 will be the league’s first virtual draft and the first draft held at ESPN. 7 – Seven players have played in the NBA G League before being drafted by an NBA team, the most recent being Alen Smailagić, the 39th pick in the 2019 NBA Draft by the Golden State Warriors. 10 – A college freshman has been selected with the first overall pick in each of the last 10 drafts. The last non-freshman to be the first overall draft pick was Oklahoma sophomore Blake Griffin in 2009. 14 – This marks the 14th consecutive year that Adam Silver will announce draft selections as either deputy commissioner (seven years) or commissioner (seven years including 2020). 107 – The distance between Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York, the venue for the last seven NBA Drafts, and ESPN’s studios in Bristol, Connecticut, the site of this year’s draft, is approximately 107 miles. 146 – The 2020 NBA Draft will take place 146 days after its originally scheduled date of June 25. 1975 – This is the first NBA Draft not held in June since 1975. 1989 – The current two-round format for the NBA Draft was adopted in 1989. Teams 1 – The Minnesota Timberwolves are set to make the first overall pick in the NBA Draft for the second time. In 2015, the Timberwolves used the first overall pick to select two-time NBA All-Star Karl-Anthony Towns. 2 – The Warriors are poised to make the second overall pick in the NBA Draft for the first time in the common draft era (since 1966). 3 – The Boston Celtics hold three first-round picks (Nos. 14, 26 and 30) after making three first-round picks last year. 5 – The Philadelphia 76ers have a league-high five picks in this year’s draft (No. 21 in the first round and Nos. 34, 36, 49 and 58 in the second round). 11 – With the 11th selection of the first round, the San Antonio Spurs are preparing to make their highest draft pick since selecting Tim Duncan with the first overall pick in 1997. Class Superlatives 1 – Memphis center James Wiseman was ESPN’s No. 1-ranked high school player in the Class of 2019. 6 – Iowa State guard Tyrese Haliburton recorded the sixth triple-double in school history during the 2019-20 season. 8 – USC forward Onyeka Okongwu matched a single-game school record last season with eight blocked shots in his first collegiate game. 16 – Maccabi Tel Aviv guard-forward Deni Avdija made his professional debut with his current team at age 16 (he turns 20 in January). 19.1 – Georgia guard Anthony Edwards was the nation’s freshman scoring leader at 19.1 points per game in the 2019-20 season. 107 – Dayton forward Obi Toppin, the 2019-20 consensus National Player of the Year, led the nation and set a single-season school record with 107 dunks last season. 2005 – Last season, Illawarra Hawks guard LaMelo Ball became the first player to post triple-doubles in back-to-back games in Australia’s National Basketball League since 2005. Family Ties 5 – Duke guard Tre Jones and his brother Tyus of the Memphis Grizzlies combined to win five Gatorade Minnesota Boys Basketball Player of the Year awards in high school. 6 – Arizona guard Nico Mannion is the son of Pace Mannion, who played six NBA seasons. 8 – Duke center Vernon Carey Jr.’s father, Vernon Sr., played eight NFL seasons as an offensive lineman with the Miami Dolphins. 12 – North Carolina guard Cole Anthony’s father, Greg, now a basketball analyst for Turner Sports, was the 12th pick in the 1991 NBA Draft. 16 – Washington forward Jaden McDaniels is the brother of Charlotte Hornets forward Jalen McDaniels, who appeared in 16 NBA games as a rookie in the 2019-20 season. 1,512 – Vanderbilt guard Saben Lee is the son of former Florida State All-America running back Amp Lee, who rushed for 1,512 yards in the NFL. 1982 – Maccabi Tel Aviv guard-forward Deni Avdija’s father, Zufer, won a bronze medal with Yugoslavia at the 1982 FIBA Basketball World Cup. 2000 – IMG Academy forward KJ Martin is the son of Kenyon Martin, the No. 1 overall pick in the 2000 NBA Draft. 5.6M – Illawarra Hawks guard LaMelo Ball, the brother of the New Orleans Pelicans’ Lonzo Ball, has more than 5.6 million followers on Instagram. Global Game 3 – This year’s draft class has the potential to break the record (three) for most players from one Basketball Without Borders camp in the same draft. Killian Hayes (France), Josh Green (Australia), Leandro Bolmaro (Argentina), Paul Eboua (Cameroon) and Vit Krejčí (Czech Republic) all participated in BWB Global 2018 as part of NBA All-Star 2018. 5 – This year’s draft class has the potential to break the record (five) for most players from Africa selected in one NBA Draft. 7 – Seven players in this year’s draft class have ties to Nigeria. Kansas center Udoka Azubuike and Memphis forward Precious Achiuwa are from Nigeria, and an additional five potential draftees have at least one parent from Nigeria: Isaac Okoro (Auburn), Onyeka Okongwu (USC), Zeke Nnaji (Arizona), Daniel Oturu (Minnesota) and Jordan Nwora (Louisville). 7/22 – Deni Avdija and Killian Hayes are seeking to become the highest-drafted players ever from Israel and France, respectively. If Hayes is drafted in the top seven, he will be the highest-drafted French player ever. If Avdija is drafted in the top 22, he will be the highest-drafted Israeli player ever. Avdija and Hayes competed against one another at Basketball Without Borders (BWB) Global 2019 as part of NBA All-Star 2019. Avdija was named MVP of the camp while Hayes was named an All-Star. 13 – There have been 13 international players drafted No. 1 overall, most recently the Phoenix Suns’ Deandre Ayton (Bahamas) in 2018. 27 – A record 27 international players were drafted in 2016, including a record 15 in the first round and a record-tying 12 in the second round. 69 – Since 2001, 69 former Basketball Without Borders campers have been drafted into the NBA or signed as free agents. Partnership/Tech 17 – ESPN will deliver live look-ins from 17 team draft rooms. 18 – ESPN will present the NBA Draft for the 18th consecutive year. 19 – Nineteen broadcast satellite trucks will be used to help present the draft, including 15 trucks throughout the U.S. and four trucks internationally to connect with prospects located in France, Greece, Israel and Spain. 30 – In this unique year, 30 draft prospects received NBA Draft Gifting Lockers, which featured media kits (Microsoft Surface tablet, Beat Powerbeats Pro earbuds, iPhone with tripod, Ring light, Beats Pill wireless speaker) and a variety of products from NBA partners including Spalding, New Era, Beats By Dr. Dre and Oculus. 180 – More than 180 young people from the Boys & Girls Clubs of America, Learn Fresh, TAPS and Jr. NBA joined 30 Draft prospects for a NBA Cares “Road to Success” virtual community series presented State Farm® on Monday, discussing topics such as physical and mental wellness, leadership, activism, mentorship and more.

NBA 2020 Draft: History, Stats and all the numbers you need to know

Masters records, emerging talent and the LPGA Tour's return feature in AFP Sport's golf talking points this week:

<h2>- Top rank, major hindrance -</h2>

Dustin Johnson secured his second major with a record-breaking 20-under-par total at the Masters, also breaking a cursed run for world number ones in majors.

Incredibly, Johnson was the first world number one to win any major since Rory McIlroy's victory at the US PGA Championship in 2014.

He was also the first player who was top of the rankings to win the Masters since Tiger Woods in 2002.&nbsp;

In fact, down the years being world number one has been almost a disadvantage in majors.

Johnson is only the fifth player since the world rankings began in 1986 to win a major while on top, joining Ian Woosnam, Fred Couples, Woods and McIlroy.

But while Woods managed it as number one for 11 of his 15 major victories, the others have only done it once each.&nbsp;

That means just 15 majors out of 139 since the rankings began have seen the world number one lift the trophy. And just four out of 128 if your name doesn't happen to be Tiger Woods.

<h2>- Im makes Asian history -</h2>

Im Sung-jae at just 22 years old crowned a remarkable debut at Augusta National with Asia's best finish in the US Masters, as the South Korean finished joint runner-up alongside Australia's Cameron Smith.&nbsp;

Im, the 2019 US PGA Tour Rookie of the Year, eclipsed countryman KJ Choi's third place in 2004 after closing&nbsp;with a final round of three-under-par 69 to finish 15-under, five strokes behind winner Dustin Johnson.

Im, who won The Honda Classic for his first PGA Tour victory in March, now has his sights set on becoming Asia's second major winner, after South Korea's YE Yang who lifted the US PGA Championship in 2009. Yang's best finish in the Masters was tied eighth in 2010.&nbsp;

"Finishing tied for second is unbelievable, and I'm proud of my game," said Im, who has broken into the world's top 20 for the first time.

He also joined some illustrious company in becoming the third-youngest player in history, after Jordan Spieth and Tiger Woods, to finish in the top five at the Masters.

<h2>- LPGA back to the future -</h2>

If you thought that was it for majors in 2020 once Johnson had slipped on his green jacket, then think again. The Women's US Open is still to come on December 10 at the Champions Golf Club in Houston, Texas.

Ahead of that the US LPGA Tour swings back into action this week after a break of almost a month with the inaugural Pelican Championship at Belleair in Tampa, Florida, marking a return to the area where the elite women's tour all began 70 years ago.

The first ever LPGA event was played in Tampa in January 1950, but the tour hasn't been back since the St. Petersburg Women's Open was played there in 1989.

On its return to its birthplace, world number one Ko Jin-young will finally be making her 2020 LPGA debut in a Covid-wracked year, having chosen to remain in South Korea and play the domestic KLPGA Tour during the pandemic.

Ko will be welcomed back by a field that is one of the year's strongest outside a major with other top 10 stars Kim Sei-young, Nelly Korda, Danielle Kang, Nasa Hataoka, Brooke Henderson, Minjee Lee and Park Sung-hyun all teeing up.

<h2>- World rankings -</h2>

Top 10s, week beginning November 16, 2020:

Men

1. Dustin Johnson (USA) 12.76&nbsp;

2. Jon Rahm (ESP) 10.29&nbsp;

3. Justin Thomas (USA) 9.48&nbsp;

4. Rory McIlroy (NIR) 7.53 (+1)&nbsp;

5. Collin Morikawa (USA) 7.42 (-1)

6. Webb Simpson (USA) 7.31 (+1)

7. Bryson DeChambeau (USA) 7.28 (-1)&nbsp;

8. Xander Schauffele (USA) 7.16&nbsp;

9. Patrick Cantlay (USA) 6.36 (+1)&nbsp;

10. Tyrrell Hatton (ENG) 6.22 (-1)

Selected:&nbsp;

18. Im Sung-jae (KOR) 4.44 (+7)

27. Cameron Smith (AUS) 3.43 (+18)&nbsp;

Women

1. Ko Jin-young&nbsp;&nbsp;(KOR) 7.90&nbsp;

2. Kim Sei-young (KOR) 6.87&nbsp;

3. Nelly Korda (USA) 6.59&nbsp;

4. Danielle Kang (USA) 6.40&nbsp;

5. Park In-bee (KOR) 6.18

6. Nasa Hataoka (JPN) 5.80&nbsp;

7. Brooke Henderson (CAN) 5.77&nbsp;

8. Minjee Lee (AUS) 5.28&nbsp;

9. Park Sung-hyun (KOR) 5.23&nbsp;

10. Kim Hyo-joo (KOR) 4.90

Masters records, emerging talent and the LPGA Tour's return feature in AFP Sport's golf talking points this week: - Top rank, major hindrance - Dustin Johnson secured his second major with a record-breaking 20-under-par total at the Masters, also breaking a cursed run for world number ones in majors.

Masters records, emerging talent and the LPGA Tour's return feature in AFP Sport's golf talking points this week: - Top rank, major hindrance - Dustin Johnson secured his second major with a record-breaking 20-under-par total at the Masters, also breaking a cursed run for world number ones in majors. Incredibly, Johnson was the first world number one to win any major since Rory McIlroy's victory at the US PGA Championship in 2014. He was also the first player who was top of the rankings to win the Masters since Tiger Woods in 2002. In fact, down the years being world number one has been almost a disadvantage in majors. Johnson is only the fifth player since the world rankings began in 1986 to win a major while on top, joining Ian Woosnam, Fred Couples, Woods and McIlroy. But while Woods managed it as number one for 11 of his 15 major victories, the others have only done it once each. That means just 15 majors out of 139 since the rankings began have seen the world number one lift the trophy. And just four out of 128 if your name doesn't happen to be Tiger Woods. - Im makes Asian history - Im Sung-jae at just 22 years old crowned a remarkable debut at Augusta National with Asia's best finish in the US Masters, as the South Korean finished joint runner-up alongside Australia's Cameron Smith. Im, the 2019 US PGA Tour Rookie of the Year, eclipsed countryman KJ Choi's third place in 2004 after closing with a final round of three-under-par 69 to finish 15-under, five strokes behind winner Dustin Johnson. Im, who won The Honda Classic for his first PGA Tour victory in March, now has his sights set on becoming Asia's second major winner, after South Korea's YE Yang who lifted the US PGA Championship in 2009. Yang's best finish in the Masters was tied eighth in 2010. "Finishing tied for second is unbelievable, and I'm proud of my game," said Im, who has broken into the world's top 20 for the first time. He also joined some illustrious company in becoming the third-youngest player in history, after Jordan Spieth and Tiger Woods, to finish in the top five at the Masters. - LPGA back to the future - If you thought that was it for majors in 2020 once Johnson had slipped on his green jacket, then think again. The Women's US Open is still to come on December 10 at the Champions Golf Club in Houston, Texas. Ahead of that the US LPGA Tour swings back into action this week after a break of almost a month with the inaugural Pelican Championship at Belleair in Tampa, Florida, marking a return to the area where the elite women's tour all began 70 years ago. The first ever LPGA event was played in Tampa in January 1950, but the tour hasn't been back since the St. Petersburg Women's Open was played there in 1989. On its return to its birthplace, world number one Ko Jin-young will finally be making her 2020 LPGA debut in a Covid-wracked year, having chosen to remain in South Korea and play the domestic KLPGA Tour during the pandemic. Ko will be welcomed back by a field that is one of the year's strongest outside a major with other top 10 stars Kim Sei-young, Nelly Korda, Danielle Kang, Nasa Hataoka, Brooke Henderson, Minjee Lee and Park Sung-hyun all teeing up. - World rankings - Top 10s, week beginning November 16, 2020: Men 1. Dustin Johnson (USA) 12.76 2. Jon Rahm (ESP) 10.29 3. Justin Thomas (USA) 9.48 4. Rory McIlroy (NIR) 7.53 (+1) 5. Collin Morikawa (USA) 7.42 (-1) 6. Webb Simpson (USA) 7.31 (+1) 7. Bryson DeChambeau (USA) 7.28 (-1) 8. Xander Schauffele (USA) 7.16 9. Patrick Cantlay (USA) 6.36 (+1) 10. Tyrrell Hatton (ENG) 6.22 (-1) Selected: 18. Im Sung-jae (KOR) 4.44 (+7) 27. Cameron Smith (AUS) 3.43 (+18) Women 1. Ko Jin-young (KOR) 7.90 2. Kim Sei-young (KOR) 6.87 3. Nelly Korda (USA) 6.59 4. Danielle Kang (USA) 6.40 5. Park In-bee (KOR) 6.18 6. Nasa Hataoka (JPN) 5.80 7. Brooke Henderson (CAN) 5.77 8. Minjee Lee (AUS) 5.28 9. Park Sung-hyun (KOR) 5.23 10. Kim Hyo-joo (KOR) 4.90

Johnson breaks a curse, Im on the rise: golf talking points

The crisis engulfing South African cricket was seemingly averted on Monday as the interim board of the country's governing body looked set to be appointed hours before England were due to fly to Cape Town for a limited overs tour.

Judge Zak Yacoob, chairman of the interim board of Cricket South Africa (CSA), said in a message sent to reporters that the body's members' council had made the decision to recognise the board after a weekend of uncertainty.

Yacoob said that the decision had been made on Monday afternoon and that there would be a meeting between the members' council –- representing the presidents of South Africa's provincial unions –- and the interim board on Monday evening.

Contacted by AFP, there was no immediate confirmation from CSA.

Yacoob's remarks followed a weekend of uncertainty during which the members' council reportedly initially refused to bow to pressure from sports minister Nathi Mthethwa, who has the power to withdraw government recognition of CSA as the controlling body of cricket in South Africa.

Mthethwa threatened to intervene directly unless the council reversed a decision, announced last Thursday, not to recognise the interim board.

Government interference would jeopardise South Africa's standing in the International Cricket Council, potentially putting international tours at risk, although it was reported locally that the England and Wales Cricket Board had been assured that the crisis would not affect the England tour.

The England team were due to fly to Cape Town on Monday evening for three Twenty20 internationals and three one-day internationals, starting on November 27.

The interim board was appointed last month after all the elected board members, including some who remain on the members’ council, resigned.&nbsp;

Their resignations brought to a climax a year of turmoil in the administration of South African cricket.

The crisis engulfing South African cricket was seemingly averted on Monday as the interim board of the country's governing body looked set to be appointed hours before England were due to fly to Cape Town for a limited overs tour.

The crisis engulfing South African cricket was seemingly averted on Monday as the interim board of the country's governing body looked set to be appointed hours before England were due to fly to Cape Town for a limited overs tour. Judge Zak Yacoob, chairman of the interim board of Cricket South Africa (CSA), said in a message sent to reporters that the body's members' council had made the decision to recognise the board after a weekend of uncertainty. Yacoob said that the decision had been made on Monday afternoon and that there would be a meeting between the members' council –- representing the presidents of South Africa's provincial unions –- and the interim board on Monday evening. Contacted by AFP, there was no immediate confirmation from CSA. Yacoob's remarks followed a weekend of uncertainty during which the members' council reportedly initially refused to bow to pressure from sports minister Nathi Mthethwa, who has the power to withdraw government recognition of CSA as the controlling body of cricket in South Africa. Mthethwa threatened to intervene directly unless the council reversed a decision, announced last Thursday, not to recognise the interim board. Government interference would jeopardise South Africa's standing in the International Cricket Council, potentially putting international tours at risk, although it was reported locally that the England and Wales Cricket Board had been assured that the crisis would not affect the England tour. The England team were due to fly to Cape Town on Monday evening for three Twenty20 internationals and three one-day internationals, starting on November 27. The interim board was appointed last month after all the elected board members, including some who remain on the members’ council, resigned. Their resignations brought to a climax a year of turmoil in the administration of South African cricket.

South African cricket crisis nears end as board set to be appointed

Manchester City winger Riyad Mahrez scored as title-holders Algeria drew 2-2 in Zimbabwe Monday and became the third country to book a place at the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations.

Cameroon qualify automatically as hosts while Senegal secured a spot Sunday by winning in Guinea-Bissau thanks to a Sadio Mane goal.&nbsp;

Andy Delort and captain Mahrez gave the Desert Foxes a two-goal advantage in Harare that was halved just before half-time when Knowledge Musona netted.

Algeria coach Djamel Belmadi took off Delort and Mahrez as he made five second-half substitutions within 12 minutes, but the bold move backfired when Prince Dube equalised eight minutes from time.

Drawing ended the perfect three-win record Algeria took into a match played behind closed doors because of the coronavirus, but it guaranteed them a top-two finish in a section including Zambia and Botswana.&nbsp;

Zambia, hoping for a resurgence under Serb coach Milutin 'Micho' Sredojevic, suffered a blow to hopes of accompanying Algeria from Group H when they fell 1-0 away to Botswana.&nbsp;

Mosha Gaolaolwe scored what proved the only goal in Francistown after just six minutes and it lifted Botswana to third, one point behind Zimbabwe.

This was the third loss in four group matches for 2012 African champions Zambia, who will host Algeria and visit Zimbabwe during the final two matchdays next March. &nbsp;

Uganda suffered a shock loss 1-0 away to South Sudan and Burkina Faso drew 0-0 in Malawi to miss out on chances to qualify from Group A.

Uganda-born Tito Okello condemned his country of birth to a first defeat in the section when he converted a first-half penalty in a qualifier marred by two red cards.

<h2>- Memorable South Sudan victory -</h2>

Khalid Aucho got a straight red to leave Uganda with 10 men for an hour while South Sudan substitute Abdallah Musa was yellow-carded twice and sent off during 15 minutes on the pitch.

Making the victory more memorable for South Sudan was the fact that they had to play the 'home' fixture in Kenya because the national stadium in Juba is being renovated.

Late goals from Percy Tau and Themba Zwane earned South Africa a 4-2 Group C win in Port Elizabeth over Sao Tome e Principe, who led, trailed and equalised before collapsing when reduced to 10 men.

Sao Tome, who are 110 places behind South Africa in the world rankings, lost Ivonaldo Mendes nine minutes from time when he was red-carded following a second caution with the sides level.&nbsp;

The minnows held on for six minutes before Belgium-based Tau gave South Africa the lead for the second time in the see-saw struggle and Zwane put the outcome beyond doubt.

Victory took South Africa to nine points, equal with Ghana but behind on head-to-head records. Sudan are the other contenders for a top-two place.

Gambia regained first place in Group D from Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang-captained Gabon after winning the top-of-the-table clash 2-1 in Bakau.

Modou Barrow and Musa Barrow scored to put the Scorpions in control until a late goal from Bruno Ecuele Manga created a tense finish.

Cameroon are part of the qualifying competition to gain match practice and increased their Group F lead to six points after a 2-0 win in Mozambique with Vincent Aboubakar among the scorers.

In Manzini, eSwatini were eliminated and Congo Brazzaville strengthened a grip on second place behind Senegal after a 0-0 draw.

Manchester City winger Riyad Mahrez scored as title-holders Algeria drew 2-2 in Zimbabwe Monday and became the third country to book a place at the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations.

Manchester City winger Riyad Mahrez scored as title-holders Algeria drew 2-2 in Zimbabwe Monday and became the third country to book a place at the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations. Cameroon qualify automatically as hosts while Senegal secured a spot Sunday by winning in Guinea-Bissau thanks to a Sadio Mane goal. Andy Delort and captain Mahrez gave the Desert Foxes a two-goal advantage in Harare that was halved just before half-time when Knowledge Musona netted. Algeria coach Djamel Belmadi took off Delort and Mahrez as he made five second-half substitutions within 12 minutes, but the bold move backfired when Prince Dube equalised eight minutes from time. Drawing ended the perfect three-win record Algeria took into a match played behind closed doors because of the coronavirus, but it guaranteed them a top-two finish in a section including Zambia and Botswana. Zambia, hoping for a resurgence under Serb coach Milutin 'Micho' Sredojevic, suffered a blow to hopes of accompanying Algeria from Group H when they fell 1-0 away to Botswana. Mosha Gaolaolwe scored what proved the only goal in Francistown after just six minutes and it lifted Botswana to third, one point behind Zimbabwe. This was the third loss in four group matches for 2012 African champions Zambia, who will host Algeria and visit Zimbabwe during the final two matchdays next March. Uganda suffered a shock loss 1-0 away to South Sudan and Burkina Faso drew 0-0 in Malawi to miss out on chances to qualify from Group A. Uganda-born Tito Okello condemned his country of birth to a first defeat in the section when he converted a first-half penalty in a qualifier marred by two red cards. - Memorable South Sudan victory - Khalid Aucho got a straight red to leave Uganda with 10 men for an hour while South Sudan substitute Abdallah Musa was yellow-carded twice and sent off during 15 minutes on the pitch. Making the victory more memorable for South Sudan was the fact that they had to play the 'home' fixture in Kenya because the national stadium in Juba is being renovated. Late goals from Percy Tau and Themba Zwane earned South Africa a 4-2 Group C win in Port Elizabeth over Sao Tome e Principe, who led, trailed and equalised before collapsing when reduced to 10 men. Sao Tome, who are 110 places behind South Africa in the world rankings, lost Ivonaldo Mendes nine minutes from time when he was red-carded following a second caution with the sides level. The minnows held on for six minutes before Belgium-based Tau gave South Africa the lead for the second time in the see-saw struggle and Zwane put the outcome beyond doubt. Victory took South Africa to nine points, equal with Ghana but behind on head-to-head records. Sudan are the other contenders for a top-two place. Gambia regained first place in Group D from Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang-captained Gabon after winning the top-of-the-table clash 2-1 in Bakau. Modou Barrow and Musa Barrow scored to put the Scorpions in control until a late goal from Bruno Ecuele Manga created a tense finish. Cameroon are part of the qualifying competition to gain match practice and increased their Group F lead to six points after a 2-0 win in Mozambique with Vincent Aboubakar among the scorers. In Manzini, eSwatini were eliminated and Congo Brazzaville strengthened a grip on second place behind Senegal after a 0-0 draw.

Mahrez scores as Algeria qualify for Africa Cup of Nations

International Olympic Committee president Thomas Bach on Tuesday said that athletes won’t be forced to get COVID-19 vaccinations ahead of the upcoming Tokyo Olympics but added that they should have it as a “demonstration of solidarity” with the Japanese.&nbsp;

Bach visited the Athletes’ Village on Tuesday before concluding his two-day Tokyo visit to the National Stadium.&nbsp;

“We will encourage athletes that whenever possible they have the vaccination because it is better for their health, and it is also a demonstration of solidarity with their fellow athletes and also the Japanese people,” said the German.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/honour-to-have-cristiano-ronaldo-break-my-record-in-international-football-ali-daei-343739" hreflang="en">Honour to have Cristiano Ronaldo break my record in international football: Ali Daei</a>

Bach, who was in his first trip to Japan since the decision to postpone the Tokyo Games in March, has spoken about the major impact a vaccine could have on the prospects of Tokyo hosting the Olympics in 2021.

More than 11,000 athletes are expected to land in Tokyo for the Games, which are scheduled to commence from July 23 with around thousands expected for the subsequent Paralympics.

However, when asked whether athletes would queue up to get the potential vaccine before the Tokyo Olympics, Bach sounded confident that this wouldn’t be the case.&nbsp;

“We made it clear from the very beginning that the first priorities are for the nurses, medical doctors and everybody who keeps our society alive, despite the coronavirus crisis,” Bach told reporters at the National Stadium.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/iocs-bach-very-confident-tokyo-olympics-will-have-fans-343411" hreflang="en">IOC's Bach 'very confident' Tokyo Olympics will have fans</a>

“These are the people who deserve to be the first ones to be vaccinated.”

Tokyo 2020 organisers are conducting a project review meeting this week while hoping on deciding on a range of COVID-19 measures, including whether the mega event will allow fans in venues in 2021.

A small group of anti-Olympics protesters gathered outside the stadium during Bach’s visit while chanting slogans as he walked alone down the track and looked up at the glaring empty seats around him.

International Olympic Committee president Thomas Bach on Tuesday said that athletes won’t be forced to get COVID-19 vaccinations ahead of the upcoming Tokyo Olympics but added that they should have it as a “demonstration of solidarity” with the Japanese.

International Olympic Committee president Thomas Bach on Tuesday said that athletes won’t be forced to get COVID-19 vaccinations ahead of the upcoming Tokyo Olympics but added that they should have it as a “demonstration of solidarity” with the Japanese. Bach visited the Athletes’ Village on Tuesday before concluding his two-day Tokyo visit to the National Stadium. “We will encourage athletes that whenever possible they have the vaccination because it is better for their health, and it is also a demonstration of solidarity with their fellow athletes and also the Japanese people,” said the German. ALSO READ: Honour to have Cristiano Ronaldo break my record in international football: Ali Daei Bach, who was in his first trip to Japan since the decision to postpone the Tokyo Games in March, has spoken about the major impact a vaccine could have on the prospects of Tokyo hosting the Olympics in 2021. More than 11,000 athletes are expected to land in Tokyo for the Games, which are scheduled to commence from July 23 with around thousands expected for the subsequent Paralympics. However, when asked whether athletes would queue up to get the potential vaccine before the Tokyo Olympics, Bach sounded confident that this wouldn’t be the case. “We made it clear from the very beginning that the first priorities are for the nurses, medical doctors and everybody who keeps our society alive, despite the coronavirus crisis,” Bach told reporters at the National Stadium. ALSO READ: IOC's Bach 'very confident' Tokyo Olympics will have fans “These are the people who deserve to be the first ones to be vaccinated.” Tokyo 2020 organisers are conducting a project review meeting this week while hoping on deciding on a range of COVID-19 measures, including whether the mega event will allow fans in venues in 2021. A small group of anti-Olympics protesters gathered outside the stadium during Bach’s visit while chanting slogans as he walked alone down the track and looked up at the glaring empty seats around him.

Athletes won't be forced to get COVID-19 vaccine ahead of Tokyo Olympics: Thomas Bach

Cricket Australia on Tuesday airlifted its players, who are set to play against India, to New South Wales’ capital Sydney from Adelaide following a spike in the number of COVID-19 cases. CA’s move comes after Western Australia, Queensland and Tasmania closed their borders to Adelaide on Monday.

The players who were airlifted were Australian Test captain Tim Paine, Marnus Labuschagne, Matthew Wade, Travis Head and Cameron Green among others.&nbsp;

"CA has taken a proactive approach and mobilised a number of people across the country over the past 24 hours to shore up our men's domestic and international schedules.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-selection-special-now-tests-can-wait-nz-batsman-conway-343752" hreflang="en">T20 selection special now, Tests can wait: NZ batsman Conway</a>

"I would like to thank the players and staff for their understanding regarding the changes to their travel schedules and for their commitment to ensuring the summer of cricket is a huge success."

"CA will continue to monitor the situation in South Australia and the resulting border restrictions around the country.

"As ever, we will remain agile in addressing the challenges presented by the pandemic and remain more confident than ever of hosting a safe and successful summer across all formats," CA's interim chief executive Nick Hockley was quoted as saying by 'ESPNCricinfo'.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-announces-new-official-kit-sponsor-for-indian-cricket-team-343735" hreflang="en">BCCI announces new official kit sponsor for Indian cricket team</a>

Despite the recent spike, CA said that Adelaide Oval will host the first Test between Australia and India from December 17 as Hockley thanked the leadership groups across Australian cricket for executing the plan in short notice.&nbsp;

"I would also like to thank the various leadership groups across Australian cricket for coming together over the past 48 hours and taking quick, decisive action - made possible by thorough, cross-department contingency planning," he said.

The Virat Kohli-led Indian team arrived in Australia on Thursday and are currently undergoing 14-day quarantine period in Sydney. The Men in Blue have been allowed to train during the quarantine period. 
&nbsp;

Cricket Australia on Tuesday airlifted its players, who are set to play against India, to New South Wales’ capital Sydney from Adelaide following a spike in the number of COVID-19 cases.

Cricket Australia on Tuesday airlifted its players, who are set to play against India, to New South Wales’ capital Sydney from Adelaide following a spike in the number of COVID-19 cases. CA’s move comes after Western Australia, Queensland and Tasmania closed their borders to Adelaide on Monday. The players who were airlifted were Australian Test captain Tim Paine, Marnus Labuschagne, Matthew Wade, Travis Head and Cameron Green among others. "CA has taken a proactive approach and mobilised a number of people across the country over the past 24 hours to shore up our men's domestic and international schedules. ALSO READ: T20 selection special now, Tests can wait: NZ batsman Conway "I would like to thank the players and staff for their understanding regarding the changes to their travel schedules and for their commitment to ensuring the summer of cricket is a huge success." "CA will continue to monitor the situation in South Australia and the resulting border restrictions around the country. "As ever, we will remain agile in addressing the challenges presented by the pandemic and remain more confident than ever of hosting a safe and successful summer across all formats," CA's interim chief executive Nick Hockley was quoted as saying by 'ESPNCricinfo'. ALSO READ: BCCI announces new official kit sponsor for Indian cricket team Despite the recent spike, CA said that Adelaide Oval will host the first Test between Australia and India from December 17 as Hockley thanked the leadership groups across Australian cricket for executing the plan in short notice. "I would also like to thank the various leadership groups across Australian cricket for coming together over the past 48 hours and taking quick, decisive action - made possible by thorough, cross-department contingency planning," he said. The Virat Kohli-led Indian team arrived in Australia on Thursday and are currently undergoing 14-day quarantine period in Sydney. The Men in Blue have been allowed to train during the quarantine period.

AUS vs IND: Tim Paine, Marnus Labuschagne and others airlifted from Adelaide to Sydney after COVID-19 spike

Batsman Devon Conway, who was picked in the New Zealand T20I squad that plays West Indies later this month but ignored from the Test squad despite a stellar season in which he scored 410 first-class runs at 58.57, says he will wait for his opportunities and make the most of what he has got. 
 
"Just getting an opportunity in the T20 squad is pretty special right now. We do not want to push things too soon. I have still got to earn the right to get that Test callup and if it maybe happens in the future we will see how it goes," the 29-year-old was quoted as saying by stuff.co.nz 
 
The left-handed batsman, who made 157 in his last first-class game for Wellington against Auckland, was elated and said that the news hadn`t sunk in as yet. 
 
"It will probably take a couple of days for it to settle in. It is a great honour; [Larsen] cornered me during the game and sat me down and said `congratulations, you have been selected in the T20 squad`," he said. 
 
"I did not really know what to say. It took me a couple of seconds to digest it, and we are here today and it is pretty exciting."

Batsman Devon Conway, who was picked in the New Zealand T20I squad that plays West Indies later this month but ignored from the Test squad despite a stellar season in which he scored 410 first-class runs at 58.

Batsman Devon Conway, who was picked in the New Zealand T20I squad that plays West Indies later this month but ignored from the Test squad despite a stellar season in which he scored 410 first-class runs at 58.57, says he will wait for his opportunities and make the most of what he has got. "Just getting an opportunity in the T20 squad is pretty special right now. We do not want to push things too soon. I have still got to earn the right to get that Test callup and if it maybe happens in the future we will see how it goes," the 29-year-old was quoted as saying by stuff.co.nz The left-handed batsman, who made 157 in his last first-class game for Wellington against Auckland, was elated and said that the news hadn`t sunk in as yet. "It will probably take a couple of days for it to settle in. It is a great honour; [Larsen] cornered me during the game and sat me down and said `congratulations, you have been selected in the T20 squad`," he said. "I did not really know what to say. It took me a couple of seconds to digest it, and we are here today and it is pretty exciting."

T20 selection special now, Tests can wait: NZ batsman Conway

Karachi Kings are set to take on Lahore Qalandars in the final of Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2020 at the National Stadium in Karachi on Tuesday. Both Karachi Kings and Lahore Qalandars have had a sensational run thus far and both the teams will have their eyes on the coveted trophy.

This season’s PSL has seen it all. After a successful first phase in Pakistan, the tournament suffered a halt due to the COVID-19 outbreak in March and after a bit of restructuring, it returned back for its playoffs in November.&nbsp;

Karachi Kings and Lahore Qalandars are just one match away from lifting the shining trophy but the question remains, who will win PSL 2020?

<h2>When and what time will Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2020 Final between Karachi Kings vs Lahore Qalandars begin?</h2>

Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2020 Final between Karachi Kings vs Lahore Qalandars will begin at 8:30 PM IST on November 17. The toss will take place at 7:30 PM IST.

<h2>Where will Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2020 Final between Karachi Kings vs Lahore Qalandars take place?</h2>

Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2020 Final between Karachi Kings vs Lahore Qalandars will be held at the National Stadium, Karachi.

<h2>Which channel will telecast Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2020 Final on TV?</h2>

Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2020 Final between Karachi Kings vs Lahore Qalandars will be telecasted live in Euro Sport in India.

<h2>How to watch the live streaming of Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2020 Final between Karachi Kings vs Lahore Qalandars?</h2>

The Karachi Kings vs Lahore Qalandars match can be live-streamed on the official YouTube channel of Pakistan Super League. 
&nbsp;

Karachi Kings are set to take on Lahore Qalandars in the final of Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2020 at the National Stadium in Karachi on Tuesday. Both Karachi Kings and Lahore Qalandars have had a sensational run thus far and both the teams will have their eyes on the coveted trophy.

Karachi Kings are set to take on Lahore Qalandars in the final of Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2020 at the National Stadium in Karachi on Tuesday. Both Karachi Kings and Lahore Qalandars have had a sensational run thus far and both the teams will have their eyes on the coveted trophy. This season’s PSL has seen it all. After a successful first phase in Pakistan, the tournament suffered a halt due to the COVID-19 outbreak in March and after a bit of restructuring, it returned back for its playoffs in November. Karachi Kings and Lahore Qalandars are just one match away from lifting the shining trophy but the question remains, who will win PSL 2020? When and what time will Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2020 Final between Karachi Kings vs Lahore Qalandars begin? Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2020 Final between Karachi Kings vs Lahore Qalandars will begin at 8:30 PM IST on November 17. The toss will take place at 7:30 PM IST. Where will Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2020 Final between Karachi Kings vs Lahore Qalandars take place? Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2020 Final between Karachi Kings vs Lahore Qalandars will be held at the National Stadium, Karachi. Which channel will telecast Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2020 Final on TV? Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2020 Final between Karachi Kings vs Lahore Qalandars will be telecasted live in Euro Sport in India. How to watch the live streaming of Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2020 Final between Karachi Kings vs Lahore Qalandars? The Karachi Kings vs Lahore Qalandars match can be live-streamed on the official YouTube channel of Pakistan Super League.

PSL 2020 Final, Karachi Kings vs Lahore Qalandars Live Streaming: When and how to watch KAR vs LAH match?

The&nbsp;overhaul of players and staff at&nbsp;Mumbai City FC during the offseason saw the club recruit a familiar face in Indian football, with Sergio Lobera taking over the reigns as the club’s new Head Coach. The Spaniard will be looking to add the elusive Hero Indian Super League trophy to the club's cabinet and has expressed his full faith in the current balance and set-up of the squad ahead of the much-anticipated 2020-21 edition of the league.&nbsp;

Speaking ahead of Mumbai City’s season opener against NorthEast United which takes place on Saturday, Lobera addressed the media over a virtual press conference from the club’s bio-secure bubble in Goa on Tuesday afternoon. "I am very happy to be back here in India and very excited to be a part of the Mumbai City family. We have a great challenge ahead of us here, and with the current COVID-19 situation and living in the bio-bubble, I want such challenges because it makes us work closely and collectively in the best way,” he said.&nbsp;

“We have started training well in these past few weeks, and I am delighted to be working with this group of players who have been great in training. I am excited to see what each one of our players can offer to us, and if we can get our ideas through to them, it’ll be a great season for us and for our fans,” added the 43-year-old.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/luis-suarez-to-miss-brazil-clash-after-positive-covid-test-343662" hreflang="en">Luis Suarez to miss Brazil clash after positive Covid test</a>

Having been a former assistant and a youth coach at FC Barcelona, Lobera is known to follow an attractive brand of football, and the Head Coach reckons he is aiming to bring the same brand to Mumbai City. “You know what my idea of playing is, and I followed the same at three seasons at FC Goa. It is important for me that spectators enjoy the football that we play – of course, winning the matches is important, but I also believe in having my team play an attacking brand of football where we are also able to create a balance. I want my team to be able to play beautiful, possession-based football, and also close down teams to quickly win back possession,” said the Spaniard.&nbsp;

When asked about how the City Football Group has helped him settle at the club, and what kind of support they provide, Lobera said he has been fortunate to have received help pertaining to a lot of areas. “The benefits of having the CFG advise us are plenty - the advice we get and the support is very important for me. I think there are a lot of people with great football knowledge at CFG, and as a coach, you can improve when you work with such people.&nbsp;I speak every day with different departments, who provided us with a lot of things including analysis, and the different learnings from their 10 teams around the world, especially lessons learnt under these unique circumstances,” expressed the Head Coach.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/englands-henderson-and-sterling-out-of-iceland-match-343659" hreflang="en">England's Henderson and Sterling out of Iceland match</a>

“We are working together with big ambitions and also keeping our long-term plans in mind. In my 25-year career, I have worked at some great clubs including Barcelona, but I can tell you that I have never worked before in this way and it is amazing to be working with Mumbai City and CFG,"&nbsp;added Lobera.&nbsp;

Asked to comment on the make-up of the squad, Lobera expressed satisfaction at being able to assemble a good squad ahead of the 2020/21 season. “I am very happy with the team I have. I think we have special players and I am trying to get the players to play in our style and hopefully, we can perform when the season gets underway.&nbsp;In my team, I obviously want players who want to win everything, but my focus is on playing beautiful football, with the final objective being - to win the matches,” said Lobera.&nbsp;

Also commenting on having the option of five substitutes in a game, Lobera said he was pleased that he can influence more matches through the substitutions. “In my opinion, it is good to have five substitutes. It means when you can do more changes, you can influence and change the direction of the game. It is a good option."&nbsp;

Lobera also added that his focus will also be on improving the Indian players. “We need to work in all the directions. We have some amazing players who have had great careers, but the most important is to improve the level of the Indian players. For me, as a coach, I need the help of foreign players to improve the Indian players. It’s impossible to win a trophy if the Indian players aren't at the level, and it is also impossible to win when your foreign players do not gel with the Indian players. So as the coach, I need my foreign players to play a big role on and off the pitch."&nbsp;

Adding that playing without their supporters is difficult, Lobera said, “We still feel they are here. Today, with social media and with regular interaction with our fans, we do feel closer to them and hopefully, we can make them happy with our performances."&nbsp;

Lobera was also appreciative of ISL’s decision to have more teams this season. He said, “It’s good if the ISL improving a lot in the last seasons. It’s good playing new teams in the league. It means we need to play against 10 teams and with all the teams having good players."

Dismissing talks of his team being the favourites, Lobera said, “In my opinion, it is going to be the most difficult and competitive season till now. I want to respect all teams, and obviously, if I say we are favourites, maybe it’s not respecting the other teams and maybe it is not true. We have some great teams who have great players and have won the titles. Our dream is to work hard and to try to finish in the best position that is possible, and the best position is number one. We need to keep working and at the end of the season, we will see.”

Signing off, Lobera added that he reckons the season opener against NorthEast United “will be a difficult game”, but his team “needs to manage this situation and try to prepare in the best way possible and start strongly”.

The overhaul of players and staff at Mumbai City FC during the offseason saw the club recruit a familiar face in Indian football, with Sergio Lobera taking over the reigns as the club’s new Head Coach.

The overhaul of players and staff at Mumbai City FC during the offseason saw the club recruit a familiar face in Indian football, with Sergio Lobera taking over the reigns as the club’s new Head Coach. The Spaniard will be looking to add the elusive Hero Indian Super League trophy to the club's cabinet and has expressed his full faith in the current balance and set-up of the squad ahead of the much-anticipated 2020-21 edition of the league. Speaking ahead of Mumbai City’s season opener against NorthEast United which takes place on Saturday, Lobera addressed the media over a virtual press conference from the club’s bio-secure bubble in Goa on Tuesday afternoon. "I am very happy to be back here in India and very excited to be a part of the Mumbai City family. We have a great challenge ahead of us here, and with the current COVID-19 situation and living in the bio-bubble, I want such challenges because it makes us work closely and collectively in the best way,” he said. “We have started training well in these past few weeks, and I am delighted to be working with this group of players who have been great in training. I am excited to see what each one of our players can offer to us, and if we can get our ideas through to them, it’ll be a great season for us and for our fans,” added the 43-year-old. ALSO READ: Luis Suarez to miss Brazil clash after positive Covid test Having been a former assistant and a youth coach at FC Barcelona, Lobera is known to follow an attractive brand of football, and the Head Coach reckons he is aiming to bring the same brand to Mumbai City. “You know what my idea of playing is, and I followed the same at three seasons at FC Goa. It is important for me that spectators enjoy the football that we play – of course, winning the matches is important, but I also believe in having my team play an attacking brand of football where we are also able to create a balance. I want my team to be able to play beautiful, possession-based football, and also close down teams to quickly win back possession,” said the Spaniard. When asked about how the City Football Group has helped him settle at the club, and what kind of support they provide, Lobera said he has been fortunate to have received help pertaining to a lot of areas. “The benefits of having the CFG advise us are plenty - the advice we get and the support is very important for me. I think there are a lot of people with great football knowledge at CFG, and as a coach, you can improve when you work with such people. I speak every day with different departments, who provided us with a lot of things including analysis, and the different learnings from their 10 teams around the world, especially lessons learnt under these unique circumstances,” expressed the Head Coach. ALSO READ: England's Henderson and Sterling out of Iceland match “We are working together with big ambitions and also keeping our long-term plans in mind. In my 25-year career, I have worked at some great clubs including Barcelona, but I can tell you that I have never worked before in this way and it is amazing to be working with Mumbai City and CFG," added Lobera. Asked to comment on the make-up of the squad, Lobera expressed satisfaction at being able to assemble a good squad ahead of the 2020/21 season. “I am very happy with the team I have. I think we have special players and I am trying to get the players to play in our style and hopefully, we can perform when the season gets underway. In my team, I obviously want players who want to win everything, but my focus is on playing beautiful football, with the final objective being - to win the matches,” said Lobera. Also commenting on having the option of five substitutes in a game, Lobera said he was pleased that he can influence more matches through the substitutions. “In my opinion, it is good to have five substitutes. It means when you can do more changes, you can influence and change the direction of the game. It is a good option." Lobera also added that his focus will also be on improving the Indian players. “We need to work in all the directions. We have some amazing players who have had great careers, but the most important is to improve the level of the Indian players. For me, as a coach, I need the help of foreign players to improve the Indian players. It’s impossible to win a trophy if the Indian players aren't at the level, and it is also impossible to win when your foreign players do not gel with the Indian players. So as the coach, I need my foreign players to play a big role on and off the pitch." Adding that playing without their supporters is difficult, Lobera said, “We still feel they are here. Today, with social media and with regular interaction with our fans, we do feel closer to them and hopefully, we can make them happy with our performances." Lobera was also appreciative of ISL’s decision to have more teams this season. He said, “It’s good if the ISL improving a lot in the last seasons. It’s good playing new teams in the league. It means we need to play against 10 teams and with all the teams having good players." Dismissing talks of his team being the favourites, Lobera said, “In my opinion, it is going to be the most difficult and competitive season till now. I want to respect all teams, and obviously, if I say we are favourites, maybe it’s not respecting the other teams and maybe it is not true. We have some great teams who have great players and have won the titles. Our dream is to work hard and to try to finish in the best position that is possible, and the best position is number one. We need to keep working and at the end of the season, we will see.” Signing off, Lobera added that he reckons the season opener against NorthEast United “will be a difficult game”, but his team “needs to manage this situation and try to prepare in the best way possible and start strongly”.

ISL: Sergio Lobera excited to take on new challenge at Mumbai City FC

Former Iranian striker Ali Daei has said that he would be honoured to witness Cristiano Ronaldo break his record of scoring most goals in international football as the Portuguese stalwart moves close to his mammoth tally of 109.

Ronaldo, who earlier became the second men to touch century of goals in international football, has scored 102 goals in 168 matches since his debut in 2003.

Daei said that he would congratulate Ronaldo directly whenever he breaks his record while adding the Portuguese forward will break his record while reminding him he still has seven goals to reach the milestone.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/mahrez-scores-as-algeria-qualify-for-africa-cup-of-nations-343651" hreflang="en">Mahrez scores as Algeria qualify for Africa Cup of Nations</a>

“I would congratulate him directly,” Daei was quoted as saying by Tasnim news agency. “Ronaldo has scored 102 goals with Portugal so far and will beat my record, I’m sure, but he still has seven goals to go.

“It would be a real honour for me if a player of his calibre could beat my record. Ronaldo is one of the best players not only of this era, but ever. He’s an absolute phenomenon.”

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nations-league-sergio-busquets-to-miss-germany-match-due-to-knee-sprain-343568" hreflang="en">Nations League: Sergio Busquets to miss Germany match due to knee sprain</a>

Daei, who captained&nbsp;Iran, reached the 109-goal tally in 148 appearances before retiring in 2006. Ronaldo will have a chance to close the gap when he takes the field for Portugal against Croatia in their final UEFA Nations League group stage match on Tuesday.

Ronaldo has been in phenomenal form for both Juventus and Portugal since returning negative for COVID-19. He had remained coronavirus positive for a couple of weeks and was self-isolating in his home before coming back and show his goal-scoring prowess again.

Former Iranian striker Ali Daei has said that he would be honoured to witness Cristiano Ronaldo break his record of scoring most goals in international football as the Portuguese stalwart moves close to his mammoth tally of 109.

Former Iranian striker Ali Daei has said that he would be honoured to witness Cristiano Ronaldo break his record of scoring most goals in international football as the Portuguese stalwart moves close to his mammoth tally of 109. Ronaldo, who earlier became the second men to touch century of goals in international football, has scored 102 goals in 168 matches since his debut in 2003. Daei said that he would congratulate Ronaldo directly whenever he breaks his record while adding the Portuguese forward will break his record while reminding him he still has seven goals to reach the milestone. ALSO READ: Mahrez scores as Algeria qualify for Africa Cup of Nations “I would congratulate him directly,” Daei was quoted as saying by Tasnim news agency. “Ronaldo has scored 102 goals with Portugal so far and will beat my record, I’m sure, but he still has seven goals to go. “It would be a real honour for me if a player of his calibre could beat my record. Ronaldo is one of the best players not only of this era, but ever. He’s an absolute phenomenon.” ALSO READ: Nations League: Sergio Busquets to miss Germany match due to knee sprain Daei, who captained Iran, reached the 109-goal tally in 148 appearances before retiring in 2006. Ronaldo will have a chance to close the gap when he takes the field for Portugal against Croatia in their final UEFA Nations League group stage match on Tuesday. Ronaldo has been in phenomenal form for both Juventus and Portugal since returning negative for COVID-19. He had remained coronavirus positive for a couple of weeks and was self-isolating in his home before coming back and show his goal-scoring prowess again.

Honour to have Cristiano Ronaldo break my record in international football: Ali Daei

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Tuesday announced a new partnership with MPL Sports, the sports merchandise brand from Mobile Premier League, as a new kit sponsor and official merchandise partner for the Indian cricket team.

MPL Sports has signed a three-year-agreement from November 2020 to December 2023 and the association with the BCCI will commence from upcoming India’s tour of Australia 2020-21.&nbsp;

The senior men, women and the Under-19 teams are also part of the new deal between the BCCI and MPL Sports.

Mr Jay Shah, Honorary Secretary, BCCI said: “The partnership leads us to a new frontier for Team India and for sports merchandising in the country. We look forward to working with a young Indian brand like MPL Sports to tap the potential that this sphere holds. This partnership aims at facilitating access to high-quality Indian cricket fan merchandise, including the coveted Indian cricket team jersey for cricket fans not just in the country but globally.”

Mr Sourav Ganguly, President, BCCI said: “We are delighted to announce the dawn of a new era for Indian cricket with the appointment of MPL Sports as the kit sponsor for the Indian men’s and women’s national cricket team until 2023. We look forward to MPL Sports adding a new chapter to the team’s kit, and bring Official BCCI licensed merchandise within easy and convenient reach for the billion-plus fans who cheer for Team India.”

Commenting on the partnership, Mr Abhishek Madhavan, SVP, Growth and Marketing, MPL and MPL Sports, said: “India is a market with a billion cricket fans and we see a lot of potential in the underpenetrated merchandise market in India. We hope to partner closely with the BCCI and take all kinds of team India merchandise to the masses - with offline as well as online distribution at affordable prices. Associating with the Indian national cricket team is a matter of huge pride for us and we want every fan in the country to feel the same way and have access to the merchandise they can proudly flaunt.”

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Tuesday announced a new partnership with MPL Sports, the sports merchandise brand from Mobile Premier League, as a new kit sponsor and official merchandise partner for the Indian cricket team.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Tuesday announced a new partnership with MPL Sports, the sports merchandise brand from Mobile Premier League, as a new kit sponsor and official merchandise partner for the Indian cricket team. MPL Sports has signed a three-year-agreement from November 2020 to December 2023 and the association with the BCCI will commence from upcoming India’s tour of Australia 2020-21. The senior men, women and the Under-19 teams are also part of the new deal between the BCCI and MPL Sports. Mr Jay Shah, Honorary Secretary, BCCI said: “The partnership leads us to a new frontier for Team India and for sports merchandising in the country. We look forward to working with a young Indian brand like MPL Sports to tap the potential that this sphere holds. This partnership aims at facilitating access to high-quality Indian cricket fan merchandise, including the coveted Indian cricket team jersey for cricket fans not just in the country but globally.” Mr Sourav Ganguly, President, BCCI said: “We are delighted to announce the dawn of a new era for Indian cricket with the appointment of MPL Sports as the kit sponsor for the Indian men’s and women’s national cricket team until 2023. We look forward to MPL Sports adding a new chapter to the team’s kit, and bring Official BCCI licensed merchandise within easy and convenient reach for the billion-plus fans who cheer for Team India.” Commenting on the partnership, Mr Abhishek Madhavan, SVP, Growth and Marketing, MPL and MPL Sports, said: “India is a market with a billion cricket fans and we see a lot of potential in the underpenetrated merchandise market in India. We hope to partner closely with the BCCI and take all kinds of team India merchandise to the masses - with offline as well as online distribution at affordable prices. Associating with the Indian national cricket team is a matter of huge pride for us and we want every fan in the country to feel the same way and have access to the merchandise they can proudly flaunt.”

BCCI announces new official kit sponsor for Indian cricket team

In March this year, Hockey India joined 38 other National Associations from around the world as a member of the World Masters Hockey (WMH).

The WMH is the sole Masters entity recognized by the International Hockey Federation (FIH) and is responsible for organizing International Masters hockey globally.

To further carry out responsibilities at the State Level, Hockey India encouraged all their State Member Units to form working Committees comprising of former National and International Hockey Players to lead the State level activity. This initiative will provide opportunities for all age groups, both genders to continue their passion for Hockey and remain active in the sports irrespective of any age barrier.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/after-receiving-islamist-threats-bangladeshs-shakib-al-hasan-apologises-for-attending-hindu-ceremony-in-india-343654" hreflang="en">After receiving Islamist threats, Bangladesh's Shakib Al Hasan apologises for attending Hindu ceremony in India</a>

These State Masters Committees have been formed by the Hockey India State Member Units to promote and further develop Masters Hockey across the country.

The Committee's first responsibility will be to ensure all the Masters athletes of various age categories are registered on the Hockey India Member Units Portal. Some of the Committee members of the State Member Units include the likes of former India Captain Pargat Singh, Mir Ranjan Negi, Gurbux Singh, Birbahadur Chettri among many others.&nbsp;

The Hockey India Masters Committee, which will be overseeing all matters related to these Masters matches and tournaments at the National level in India, is headed by Harbinder Singh as the Chairman of the Committee, Dr RP Singh as the Convener, with Members including former India players Mr. BP Govinda, Mr. Jagbir Singh, Dr. AB Subbaiah, Ms. Surinder Kaur and Ms. M Renuka Lakshmi.

By having a proper Hockey India Masters Committee with the mandate to encourage, plan and execute various Masters hockey events in the country, it gives former players the chance to deep-dive once again into the adrenaline rush that comes with playing their favourite sport.

Speaking about the overwhelming response received from State Member Units to form Masters Committee, Rajinder Singh, Secretary General, Hockey India said: "We are happy to receive great support from our State Member Units who have promptly formed their respectively Committees with some very prominent names of Indian hockey. I am confident with their passion and endeavour, we will be able to develop a platform for former players in the Masters Category to remain in the sport regardless of their age. One of the goals of Masters Committee is to encourage players to come back onto the field and play hockey as a recreational activity and to stay in touch with the sport that they have always loved and been passionate about."

In March this year, Hockey India joined 38 other National Associations from around the world as a member of the World Masters Hockey (WMH). The WMH is the sole Masters entity recognized by the International Hockey Federation (FIH) and is responsible for organizing International Masters hockey globally.

In March this year, Hockey India joined 38 other National Associations from around the world as a member of the World Masters Hockey (WMH). The WMH is the sole Masters entity recognized by the International Hockey Federation (FIH) and is responsible for organizing International Masters hockey globally. To further carry out responsibilities at the State Level, Hockey India encouraged all their State Member Units to form working Committees comprising of former National and International Hockey Players to lead the State level activity. This initiative will provide opportunities for all age groups, both genders to continue their passion for Hockey and remain active in the sports irrespective of any age barrier. ALSO READ: After receiving Islamist threats, Bangladesh's Shakib Al Hasan apologises for attending Hindu ceremony in India These State Masters Committees have been formed by the Hockey India State Member Units to promote and further develop Masters Hockey across the country. The Committee's first responsibility will be to ensure all the Masters athletes of various age categories are registered on the Hockey India Member Units Portal. Some of the Committee members of the State Member Units include the likes of former India Captain Pargat Singh, Mir Ranjan Negi, Gurbux Singh, Birbahadur Chettri among many others. The Hockey India Masters Committee, which will be overseeing all matters related to these Masters matches and tournaments at the National level in India, is headed by Harbinder Singh as the Chairman of the Committee, Dr RP Singh as the Convener, with Members including former India players Mr. BP Govinda, Mr. Jagbir Singh, Dr. AB Subbaiah, Ms. Surinder Kaur and Ms. M Renuka Lakshmi. By having a proper Hockey India Masters Committee with the mandate to encourage, plan and execute various Masters hockey events in the country, it gives former players the chance to deep-dive once again into the adrenaline rush that comes with playing their favourite sport. Speaking about the overwhelming response received from State Member Units to form Masters Committee, Rajinder Singh, Secretary General, Hockey India said: "We are happy to receive great support from our State Member Units who have promptly formed their respectively Committees with some very prominent names of Indian hockey. I am confident with their passion and endeavour, we will be able to develop a platform for former players in the Masters Category to remain in the sport regardless of their age. One of the goals of Masters Committee is to encourage players to come back onto the field and play hockey as a recreational activity and to stay in touch with the sport that they have always loved and been passionate about."

Hockey India State Member Units form Hockey India Masters Committee

Author

Zee News Rajasthan

Editor

Subhayan Chakraborty

Home

Live Tv

Latest

World

India

Business

Entertainment

Sports

Opinions

Videos

Photos

Gravitas

Lifestyle

Science

Tech

Rajasthan News in Hindi: In-depth coverage of Rajasthan Crime, Political News, Education, Rajasthan Weather Update and Latest Rajasthan News on Zee News Rajasthan.