Plenty of questions were raised when the Indian selection committee didn’t name Rohit Sharma for the upcoming Australia tour citing injury concerns. However, despite BCCI president Sourav Ganguly stating that Rohit had a hamstring tear and could further aggravate the injury, the Indian opener has played last two matches for Mumbai Indians in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) after missing four previous matches.&nbsp;

Even when asked a couple of times about his hamstring injury, Rohit has cleared that he is fully fit and the hamstring is absolutely fine. Opening up on the matter, former Indian cricketer Virender Sehwag has said that Rohit Sharma could have been picked for the Australian tour and keeping the fitness concerns in mind, a replacement could have been sent along with the squad so that a player is available if the situation got worse Down Under.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2020-sunrisers-hyderabad-take-on-royal-challengers-bangalore-in-the-eliminator-clash-341106" hreflang="en">IPL 2020: Sunrisers Hyderabad take on Royal Challengers Bangalore in the Eliminator clash</a>

“If a statement has gone from MI physio that we are not sure how long would it take for Rohit Sharma to get fit, and the team has been created keeping this statement in mind, then even I have nothing to say. You get an idea if you are a top player,” Sehwag said on Cricbuzz.

The former Indian opener recalled an incident where he was involved before the ICC World Cup 2011 as he said everyone from the selectors, physios and coaches might be knowing the extent of Rohit’s hamstring problems.&nbsp;

“Let me give an example from my career. Before the 2011 World Cup, I was having problems with my shoulder. When I got scanned, so there was a tear in my bicep tendon, and I needed to get a surgery done,” he stated.

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“So, similarly, everyone might be knowing about Rohit Sharma’s problems – the selectors, the physio, coaches. Still, he could have been selected for the Australia tour. If he doesn’t get fit, then we will send in this player as a replacement or will send a replacement alongside him keeping the bio-secure bubble in mind,” Sehwag added.

Rohit Sharma will next feature in the IPL 2020 final with Mumbai Indians standing on the cusp of creating history as they remain one win away from their fifth IPL title. However, it remains to be seen what decision the Indian selection committee takes on Rohit’s inclusion in the Indian team for the Australia tour. 
&nbsp;

Plenty of questions were raised when the Indian selection committee didn’t name Rohit Sharma for the upcoming Australia tour citing injury concerns. However, despite BCCI president Sourav Ganguly stating that Rohit had a hamstring tear and could further aggravate the injury, the Indian opener has played last two matches for Mumbai Indians in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) after missing four previous matches.

Plenty of questions were raised when the Indian selection committee didn’t name Rohit Sharma for the upcoming Australia tour citing injury concerns. However, despite BCCI president Sourav Ganguly stating that Rohit had a hamstring tear and could further aggravate the injury, the Indian opener has played last two matches for Mumbai Indians in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) after missing four previous matches. Even when asked a couple of times about his hamstring injury, Rohit has cleared that he is fully fit and the hamstring is absolutely fine. Opening up on the matter, former Indian cricketer Virender Sehwag has said that Rohit Sharma could have been picked for the Australian tour and keeping the fitness concerns in mind, a replacement could have been sent along with the squad so that a player is available if the situation got worse Down Under. ALSO READ: IPL 2020: Sunrisers Hyderabad take on Royal Challengers Bangalore in the Eliminator clash “If a statement has gone from MI physio that we are not sure how long would it take for Rohit Sharma to get fit, and the team has been created keeping this statement in mind, then even I have nothing to say. You get an idea if you are a top player,” Sehwag said on Cricbuzz. The former Indian opener recalled an incident where he was involved before the ICC World Cup 2011 as he said everyone from the selectors, physios and coaches might be knowing the extent of Rohit’s hamstring problems. “Let me give an example from my career. Before the 2011 World Cup, I was having problems with my shoulder. When I got scanned, so there was a tear in my bicep tendon, and I needed to get a surgery done,” he stated. ALSO READ: 'He can never be MS Dhoni': Gautam Gambhir on Rishabh Pant “So, similarly, everyone might be knowing about Rohit Sharma’s problems – the selectors, the physio, coaches. Still, he could have been selected for the Australia tour. If he doesn’t get fit, then we will send in this player as a replacement or will send a replacement alongside him keeping the bio-secure bubble in mind,” Sehwag added. Rohit Sharma will next feature in the IPL 2020 final with Mumbai Indians standing on the cusp of creating history as they remain one win away from their fifth IPL title. However, it remains to be seen what decision the Indian selection committee takes on Rohit’s inclusion in the Indian team for the Australia tour.

Rohit Sharma could've been selected for Australia tour: Virender Sehwag baffled over Hitman's injury case

In what comes as shocking news in the world of football, the Italian Football Association FIGC has launched an investigation into Serie A giants Lazio over suspicion for violating health protocols related to COVID-19.&nbsp;

Reportedly, three players in Ciro Immobile, Thomas Strakosha and Lucas Leiva were tested positive for the dreaded coronavirus and were barred from playing in UEFA Champions League match against Club Brugge. However, the trio went onto play in a Serie A match against Torino, several days later in the Serie A. Lazio won the match 4-3 with Immobile scoring the winning goal.&nbsp;

The FIGC has now requested the results of the test conducted for COVID-19.

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Lazio president Claudio Lolito and physician Ivo Pulcini have already been interrogated about the incident by the FIGC. According to reports, if Lazio are found guilty of breaching the COVID-19 rules or even manipulating the results of coronavirus tests then the Italian giants could face several penalties including hefty fines, points deduction or even relegation from Serie A.

Reportedly, Lazio had not informed the health authorities about Immobile testing positive for COVID-19. Immobile had tested positive on October 26 and November 2. However, two other tests carried on October 30 and 31 returned negative.

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Lazio then went on to use their skipper and prolific goalscorer last Sunday in the Serie A game against Torino in the second half. Apparently, Lazio have said that striker had very low positivity from the virus from the first test.

Both Immobile and Leiva weren’t allowed to enter Russia for their UCL match against Zenit St. Petersburg. 
Lazio are still awaiting results of Immobile and Leiva for their availability in Serie A match against Juventus.

&nbsp;

In what comes as shocking news in the world of football, the Italian Football Association FIGC has launched an investigation into Serie A giants Lazio over suspicion for violating health protocols related to COVID-19.

In what comes as shocking news in the world of football, the Italian Football Association FIGC has launched an investigation into Serie A giants Lazio over suspicion for violating health protocols related to COVID-19. Reportedly, three players in Ciro Immobile, Thomas Strakosha and Lucas Leiva were tested positive for the dreaded coronavirus and were barred from playing in UEFA Champions League match against Club Brugge. However, the trio went onto play in a Serie A match against Torino, several days later in the Serie A. Lazio won the match 4-3 with Immobile scoring the winning goal. The FIGC has now requested the results of the test conducted for COVID-19. ALSO READ: Cristiano Ronaldo to return for Portugal against France, Croatia Lazio president Claudio Lolito and physician Ivo Pulcini have already been interrogated about the incident by the FIGC. According to reports, if Lazio are found guilty of breaching the COVID-19 rules or even manipulating the results of coronavirus tests then the Italian giants could face several penalties including hefty fines, points deduction or even relegation from Serie A. Reportedly, Lazio had not informed the health authorities about Immobile testing positive for COVID-19. Immobile had tested positive on October 26 and November 2. However, two other tests carried on October 30 and 31 returned negative. ALSO READ: Ole out? Manchester United approach Mauricio Pochettino about becoming next manager Lazio then went on to use their skipper and prolific goalscorer last Sunday in the Serie A game against Torino in the second half. Apparently, Lazio have said that striker had very low positivity from the virus from the first test. Both Immobile and Leiva weren’t allowed to enter Russia for their UCL match against Zenit St. Petersburg. Lazio are still awaiting results of Immobile and Leiva for their availability in Serie A match against Juventus.

Lazio to face relegation from Serie A? FIGC launch investigation over alleged COVID-19 report manipulation

South African Sune Luus conjured up an unbeaten 37 under pressure as Velocity overcame a jittery start to stun defending champions Supernovas by five wickets in the opening match of the Women's T20 Challenge here on Wednesday.

Chasing a modest 127, Velocity were 38 for three inside nine overs but Luus took them over the line with her calm-headed 37-run knock that came off 21 balls with four fours and a six.

Luus also shared a crucial 51-run stand with Sushma Verma (34) to repair the innings after the early setbacks.

The Velocity bowlers, led by left-arm spinner Ekta Bisht (3/22) had restricted Supernovas to 126/8 after electing to bowl.

South African medium pacer Ayabonga Khaka (2/27) gave Supernovas the perfect start dismissing both the openers, Dani Wyatt (0) and supremely-talented Shafali Verma (17).

Shafali had lit up the modest chase smashing a hat-trick of boundaries against Khaka.

But Khaka bounced back to dismiss the talented Indian batter after she flicked one straight to deep midwicket.

Skipper Mithali Raj then fell victim to Siriwardene after a sluggish seven from 19 balls as it was left for Veda Krishnamurthy (29) and Sushma to keep them in hunt.

The seasoned Sushma turned it around for Velocity in the 16th over hammering Poonam Yadav for two sixes with some clean-hitting display to bring the run rate down.

She however failed to take them over the line falling to Poonam Yadav in the penultimate over.

Needing nine runs from the last over, Luus sealed the chase in the penultimate ball with two boundaries.

Velocity will take on Trailblazers on Thursday.

Earlier, apart from Ekta Bisht's effort, New Zealand off-spinner Leigh Kasperek (2/23) and medium pacer Jahanara Alam (2/27 also contributed in stifling the holders.

Jahanara dismissed key batters -- Harmanpreet Kaur (31) and Chamara Atapattu (44) -- to derail Supernova.

Sri Lankan T20 skipper Atapattu and her Indian counterpart Harmanpreet had seized control in the back end but their 47-run partnership was broken by Jahanara with Veda Krishnamurthy taking calm-headed skier in the long on.

Jahanara later dismissed Harmanpreet for 31 after the Indian skipper holed out at short fine leg. It triggered a collapse as the defending champions lost four wickets for 15 runs.

Chamari slammed two sixes and two boundaries in a 39-ball 44, while Harmanpreet hit two sixes and one boundary. 
Velocity made some early inroads with their spinner duo of Leigh Kasperek and Ekta Bisht dismissing Priya Punia (11) and Jemimah Rodrigues (7) inside eight overs.

But Supernova took control in the back end with Chamari breaking free against Manali Dakshini.

The Sri Lankan T20 skipper hit Manali inside out over cover and in the next over pulled Kasperek over deep mid-wicket for her second six to lift the run-rate.

But Chamari fell six runs short of a half-century as Supernovas failed to shift gear afterwards.

South African Sune Luus conjured up an unbeaten 37 under pressure as Velocity overcame a jittery start to stun defending champions Supernovas by five wickets in the opening match of the Women's T20 Challenge here on Wednesday.

South African Sune Luus conjured up an unbeaten 37 under pressure as Velocity overcame a jittery start to stun defending champions Supernovas by five wickets in the opening match of the Women's T20 Challenge here on Wednesday. Chasing a modest 127, Velocity were 38 for three inside nine overs but Luus took them over the line with her calm-headed 37-run knock that came off 21 balls with four fours and a six. Luus also shared a crucial 51-run stand with Sushma Verma (34) to repair the innings after the early setbacks. The Velocity bowlers, led by left-arm spinner Ekta Bisht (3/22) had restricted Supernovas to 126/8 after electing to bowl. South African medium pacer Ayabonga Khaka (2/27) gave Supernovas the perfect start dismissing both the openers, Dani Wyatt (0) and supremely-talented Shafali Verma (17). Shafali had lit up the modest chase smashing a hat-trick of boundaries against Khaka. But Khaka bounced back to dismiss the talented Indian batter after she flicked one straight to deep midwicket. Skipper Mithali Raj then fell victim to Siriwardene after a sluggish seven from 19 balls as it was left for Veda Krishnamurthy (29) and Sushma to keep them in hunt. The seasoned Sushma turned it around for Velocity in the 16th over hammering Poonam Yadav for two sixes with some clean-hitting display to bring the run rate down. She however failed to take them over the line falling to Poonam Yadav in the penultimate over. Needing nine runs from the last over, Luus sealed the chase in the penultimate ball with two boundaries. Velocity will take on Trailblazers on Thursday. Earlier, apart from Ekta Bisht's effort, New Zealand off-spinner Leigh Kasperek (2/23) and medium pacer Jahanara Alam (2/27 also contributed in stifling the holders. Jahanara dismissed key batters -- Harmanpreet Kaur (31) and Chamara Atapattu (44) -- to derail Supernova. Sri Lankan T20 skipper Atapattu and her Indian counterpart Harmanpreet had seized control in the back end but their 47-run partnership was broken by Jahanara with Veda Krishnamurthy taking calm-headed skier in the long on. Jahanara later dismissed Harmanpreet for 31 after the Indian skipper holed out at short fine leg. It triggered a collapse as the defending champions lost four wickets for 15 runs. Chamari slammed two sixes and two boundaries in a 39-ball 44, while Harmanpreet hit two sixes and one boundary. Velocity made some early inroads with their spinner duo of Leigh Kasperek and Ekta Bisht dismissing Priya Punia (11) and Jemimah Rodrigues (7) inside eight overs. But Supernova took control in the back end with Chamari breaking free against Manali Dakshini. The Sri Lankan T20 skipper hit Manali inside out over cover and in the next over pulled Kasperek over deep mid-wicket for her second six to lift the run-rate. But Chamari fell six runs short of a half-century as Supernovas failed to shift gear afterwards.

Disciplined Velocity stun defending champions Supernovas

The Indian Premier League playoffs begin Thursday in the UAE with last year's champions Mumbai as favourites and Virat Kohli's Royal Challengers Bangalore among the teams looking to cause an upset.

Surprise package the Delhi Capitals, who like Bangalore are aiming for a first title, will take on the Mumbai Indians in the first qualifier on Thursday with a place in the November 10 final at stake.

The losers of that match will get another crack at qualifying on Sunday against either Kohli's Bangalore or Sunrisers Hyderabad, who clash on Friday in an eliminator.

AFP Sport looks at the strengths and weaknesses of the four teams still standing in the world's richest Twenty20 league:

<h2>- Mumbai Indians -</h2>

Rohit Sharma's four-time champions underlined their status as tournament favourites by being the first team to qualify for the playoffs as they topped the standings with nine wins in 14 games.&nbsp;

South African wicketkeeper-batsman Quinton de Kock has led the batting with 443 runs while getting key support from Suryakumar Yadav, Ishan Kishan and Kieron Pollard.

Pace bowlers Trent Boult and Jasprit Bumrah battered the opposition with a combined 43 wickets.&nbsp;

The 2019 champions had already qualified top of the table before they were hammered by Sunrisers Hyderabad on Tuesday and, despite fitness doubts over Sharma, are targeting back-to-back titles for the first time.

<h2>- Delhi Capitals -</h2>

The Ricky Ponting-coached Capitals made a sensational start, winning five of their first six games, before losing four in a row but then beating Bangalore to reach the playoffs.

India opener Shikhar Dhawan is the key batsman and this year became the first player to score two consecutive IPL centuries. But Rishabh Pant, India's new batting hope, has been misfiring.

The South African pace duo of Anrich Nortje and Kagiso Rabada have been impressive with Nortje bowling the fastest ever IPL delivery, a 97 miles per hour (156 kph) thunderbolt, and Rabada leading the IPL wicket-takers with 25 victims.&nbsp;

<h2>- Sunrisers Hyderabad -</h2>

Skipper David Warner came into his own with an unbeaten 85 off 58 balls to take Hyderabad into the playoffs on Tuesday.

The 2016 IPL winners benefited from the return of wicketkeeper-batsman Wriddhiman Saha, who hit two half-centuries in three successive wins to help them to third in the standings.

With West Indies all-rounder Jason Holder contributing and the deadly spin of Rashid Khan, who has taken 19 wickets, Warner will be hoping for the same result in this week's eliminator as in the 2016 final when Hyderabad beat Bangalore to lift the trophy.

<h2>- Royal Challengers Bangalore -</h2>

India captain Virat Kohli has never won an IPL title and it hurts. RCB finished bottom of the eight-team table last year, and after seven wins and seven defeats they scraped into the playoffs on run rate after losing their final match to Hyderabad.

Kohli leads a strong batting line-up, combining with young opener Devdutt Padikkal for 932 runs while South African veteran AB de Villiers has been the go-to man in crunch situations with an overall strike rate of 163.

Spinners Yuzvendra Chahal and Washington Sundar will be key with their ability to choke an opposition team's run-flow while claiming wickets. Kohli insists his team are worth their place, but said he needs them to be "more brave" when chasing runs.

The Indian Premier League playoffs begin Thursday in the UAE with last year's champions Mumbai as favourites and Virat Kohli's Royal Challengers Bangalore among the teams looking to cause an upset.

The Indian Premier League playoffs begin Thursday in the UAE with last year's champions Mumbai as favourites and Virat Kohli's Royal Challengers Bangalore among the teams looking to cause an upset. Surprise package the Delhi Capitals, who like Bangalore are aiming for a first title, will take on the Mumbai Indians in the first qualifier on Thursday with a place in the November 10 final at stake. The losers of that match will get another crack at qualifying on Sunday against either Kohli's Bangalore or Sunrisers Hyderabad, who clash on Friday in an eliminator. AFP Sport looks at the strengths and weaknesses of the four teams still standing in the world's richest Twenty20 league: - Mumbai Indians - Rohit Sharma's four-time champions underlined their status as tournament favourites by being the first team to qualify for the playoffs as they topped the standings with nine wins in 14 games. South African wicketkeeper-batsman Quinton de Kock has led the batting with 443 runs while getting key support from Suryakumar Yadav, Ishan Kishan and Kieron Pollard. Pace bowlers Trent Boult and Jasprit Bumrah battered the opposition with a combined 43 wickets. The 2019 champions had already qualified top of the table before they were hammered by Sunrisers Hyderabad on Tuesday and, despite fitness doubts over Sharma, are targeting back-to-back titles for the first time. - Delhi Capitals - The Ricky Ponting-coached Capitals made a sensational start, winning five of their first six games, before losing four in a row but then beating Bangalore to reach the playoffs. India opener Shikhar Dhawan is the key batsman and this year became the first player to score two consecutive IPL centuries. But Rishabh Pant, India's new batting hope, has been misfiring. The South African pace duo of Anrich Nortje and Kagiso Rabada have been impressive with Nortje bowling the fastest ever IPL delivery, a 97 miles per hour (156 kph) thunderbolt, and Rabada leading the IPL wicket-takers with 25 victims. - Sunrisers Hyderabad - Skipper David Warner came into his own with an unbeaten 85 off 58 balls to take Hyderabad into the playoffs on Tuesday. The 2016 IPL winners benefited from the return of wicketkeeper-batsman Wriddhiman Saha, who hit two half-centuries in three successive wins to help them to third in the standings. With West Indies all-rounder Jason Holder contributing and the deadly spin of Rashid Khan, who has taken 19 wickets, Warner will be hoping for the same result in this week's eliminator as in the 2016 final when Hyderabad beat Bangalore to lift the trophy. - Royal Challengers Bangalore - India captain Virat Kohli has never won an IPL title and it hurts. RCB finished bottom of the eight-team table last year, and after seven wins and seven defeats they scraped into the playoffs on run rate after losing their final match to Hyderabad. Kohli leads a strong batting line-up, combining with young opener Devdutt Padikkal for 932 runs while South African veteran AB de Villiers has been the go-to man in crunch situations with an overall strike rate of 163. Spinners Yuzvendra Chahal and Washington Sundar will be key with their ability to choke an opposition team's run-flow while claiming wickets. Kohli insists his team are worth their place, but said he needs them to be "more brave" when chasing runs.

IPL final four: Mumbai again, or can Kohli cause an upset?

German tennis player Alexander Zverev said on Wednesday that accusations by an ex-girlfriend that he attacked her last year were "not true".

The world number seven insisted last week in a social media post that claims made by Olga Sharypova that he tried to "strangle" her while at last year's US Open were "unfounded" and made him "very sad".

"I have said everything on my Instagram. There is nothing else I can add right now," Zverev said after his 6-2, 6-2 Paris Masters second-round win over Miomir Kecmanovic at Bercy Arena.

"I'm here. I'm here to play tennis. I mean, the relationship, as I said, has been over for a very long time.

"I'm enjoying my time on court. I have said everything. They are not true, and there is nothing more I can say right now."

Zverev has been in good form in recent weeks, winning back-to-back titles on home soil in Cologne, having also reached his maiden Grand Slam final at this year's US Open, where he lost in five sets to Dominic Thiem.

Sharypova did not initially name Zverev in her Instagram post about the alleged abuse, but later confirmed to Russian media that she was referring to her fellow 23-year-old.

Sharypova claimed also that her head was hit against a wall and that she was forced to flee a hotel barefoot.

"I'm here to play tennis," added Zverev. "I have been doing that well the last few weeks... Since the comeback of the season, and I want to continue doing that.

"There is obviously a little bit of things going on."

Zverev will face Frenchman Adrian Mannarino in the Paris third round on Thursday.

German tennis player Alexander Zverev said on Wednesday that accusations by an ex-girlfriend that he attacked her last year were "not true". The world number seven insisted last week in a social media post that claims made by Olga Sharypova that he tried to "strangle" her while at last year's US Open were "unfounded" and made him "very sad".

German tennis player Alexander Zverev said on Wednesday that accusations by an ex-girlfriend that he attacked her last year were "not true". The world number seven insisted last week in a social media post that claims made by Olga Sharypova that he tried to "strangle" her while at last year's US Open were "unfounded" and made him "very sad". "I have said everything on my Instagram. There is nothing else I can add right now," Zverev said after his 6-2, 6-2 Paris Masters second-round win over Miomir Kecmanovic at Bercy Arena. "I'm here. I'm here to play tennis. I mean, the relationship, as I said, has been over for a very long time. "I'm enjoying my time on court. I have said everything. They are not true, and there is nothing more I can say right now." Zverev has been in good form in recent weeks, winning back-to-back titles on home soil in Cologne, having also reached his maiden Grand Slam final at this year's US Open, where he lost in five sets to Dominic Thiem. Sharypova did not initially name Zverev in her Instagram post about the alleged abuse, but later confirmed to Russian media that she was referring to her fellow 23-year-old. Sharypova claimed also that her head was hit against a wall and that she was forced to flee a hotel barefoot. "I'm here to play tennis," added Zverev. "I have been doing that well the last few weeks... Since the comeback of the season, and I want to continue doing that. "There is obviously a little bit of things going on." Zverev will face Frenchman Adrian Mannarino in the Paris third round on Thursday.

Zverev again says domestic assault allegations 'not true'

Manchester United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer blasted "unforgivable" defending from his hapless side as they slumped to an embarrassing 2-1 Champions League defeat against Istanbul Basaksehir on Wednesday.

United, floundering in the lower reaches of the Premier League, started the game as firm favourites after an impressive win against Paris Saint-Germain and a 5-0 humbling of RB Leipzig.

But defeat in Turkey -- a first-ever Champions League group-stage win for Basaksehir -- heaps the pressure on the Norwegian boss, whose side looked short of inspiration and basic defensive nous in Istanbul.

The three-time European champions were badly exposed on the break as former Chelsea forward Demba Ba and Edin Visca gave the home team a two-goal cushion.

United gave themselves hope when they reduced the deficit shortly before half-time through an Anthony Martial header.

But despite multiple second-half changes and an array of attacking talent, Solskjaer's lacklustre team could not find a way past the organised Basaksehir defence.

The result ended Manchester United's longest away winning run in all competitions in their history -- 10 straight victories -- and was their first away defeat in 19 matches since losing in January at Liverpool in the Premier League.

Solskjaer said the performance against the hard-working Turkish side was not good enough.

"They scored two goals like you do in Europe when you do not defend well enough," he told BT Sport.

"The first one is that we play a short corner and forget about the man up top. That is unforgivable. The second one as well, we are not very well organised to counter the press."

"You don't turn up and get three points in the Champions League," he added. "They are a team well organised and we were not good enough. That is it."

<h2>- Defensive chaos -</h2>

United started the game in the comfort zone, with no sign of the defensive chaos to come in front of a small but vocal crowd.

Luke Shaw fizzed a ball past the far post with his left foot but United, with Marcus Rashford and Martial up front, lacked penetration.

The home side were ahead in the 12th minute after inexplicably poor awareness and organisation allowed unmarshalled ex-Chelsea forward Ba to collect a long ball and race from the halfway line to score, trailed helplessly by Nemanja Matic.

Axel Tuanzebe, who impressed in Paris, had a heart-stopping moment after he pulled Ba back but escaped with a yellow card.

Basaksehir remained threatening on the break, with United worryingly open at the back, and the visitors were caught napping again five minutes before half time.

Deniz Turuc robbed Juan Mata of possession down the left and raced forward, sending over a cross that Ba stepped over and Visca smashed past Dean Henderson, making his Champions League debut in place of David de Gea.

United crucially reduced the deficit in the 43rd minute when Martial steered a Shaw cross home with his head.

Solskjaer hooked off Tuanzebe at the interval, with Scott McTominay coming on and Matic dropping back to play at centre-back alongside Harry Maguire.

United once more enjoyed territorial advantage at the start of the second half and Bruno Fernandes had a free-kick pushed away.

Solskjaer threw on Edinson Cavani and Paul Pogba in place of Mata and Donny van de Beek to add impetus to the attack but ponderous United struggled to create clear chances.

Mason Greenwood came on for Rashford as United continued to search for a way through.

They went agonisingly close to an equaliser in stoppage time when Alexandru Epureanu hacked off the line but they could not rescue a point in the Group H tie.

United appeared to have turned the corner after their 6-1 mauling by Tottenham last month but they have now suffered consecutive defeats to Arsenal and Basaksehir.

"They (two losses) have set us back a lot," said Solskjaer, whose team travel to Everton on Saturday. "You get a reality check every time you play a game of football."

Manchester United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer blasted "unforgivable" defending from his hapless side as they slumped to an embarrassing 2-1 Champions League defeat against Istanbul Basaksehir on Wednesday.

Manchester United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer blasted "unforgivable" defending from his hapless side as they slumped to an embarrassing 2-1 Champions League defeat against Istanbul Basaksehir on Wednesday. United, floundering in the lower reaches of the Premier League, started the game as firm favourites after an impressive win against Paris Saint-Germain and a 5-0 humbling of RB Leipzig. But defeat in Turkey -- a first-ever Champions League group-stage win for Basaksehir -- heaps the pressure on the Norwegian boss, whose side looked short of inspiration and basic defensive nous in Istanbul. The three-time European champions were badly exposed on the break as former Chelsea forward Demba Ba and Edin Visca gave the home team a two-goal cushion. United gave themselves hope when they reduced the deficit shortly before half-time through an Anthony Martial header. But despite multiple second-half changes and an array of attacking talent, Solskjaer's lacklustre team could not find a way past the organised Basaksehir defence. The result ended Manchester United's longest away winning run in all competitions in their history -- 10 straight victories -- and was their first away defeat in 19 matches since losing in January at Liverpool in the Premier League. Solskjaer said the performance against the hard-working Turkish side was not good enough. "They scored two goals like you do in Europe when you do not defend well enough," he told BT Sport. "The first one is that we play a short corner and forget about the man up top. That is unforgivable. The second one as well, we are not very well organised to counter the press." "You don't turn up and get three points in the Champions League," he added. "They are a team well organised and we were not good enough. That is it." - Defensive chaos - United started the game in the comfort zone, with no sign of the defensive chaos to come in front of a small but vocal crowd. Luke Shaw fizzed a ball past the far post with his left foot but United, with Marcus Rashford and Martial up front, lacked penetration. The home side were ahead in the 12th minute after inexplicably poor awareness and organisation allowed unmarshalled ex-Chelsea forward Ba to collect a long ball and race from the halfway line to score, trailed helplessly by Nemanja Matic. Axel Tuanzebe, who impressed in Paris, had a heart-stopping moment after he pulled Ba back but escaped with a yellow card. Basaksehir remained threatening on the break, with United worryingly open at the back, and the visitors were caught napping again five minutes before half time. Deniz Turuc robbed Juan Mata of possession down the left and raced forward, sending over a cross that Ba stepped over and Visca smashed past Dean Henderson, making his Champions League debut in place of David de Gea. United crucially reduced the deficit in the 43rd minute when Martial steered a Shaw cross home with his head. Solskjaer hooked off Tuanzebe at the interval, with Scott McTominay coming on and Matic dropping back to play at centre-back alongside Harry Maguire. United once more enjoyed territorial advantage at the start of the second half and Bruno Fernandes had a free-kick pushed away. Solskjaer threw on Edinson Cavani and Paul Pogba in place of Mata and Donny van de Beek to add impetus to the attack but ponderous United struggled to create clear chances. Mason Greenwood came on for Rashford as United continued to search for a way through. They went agonisingly close to an equaliser in stoppage time when Alexandru Epureanu hacked off the line but they could not rescue a point in the Group H tie. United appeared to have turned the corner after their 6-1 mauling by Tottenham last month but they have now suffered consecutive defeats to Arsenal and Basaksehir. "They (two losses) have set us back a lot," said Solskjaer, whose team travel to Everton on Saturday. "You get a reality check every time you play a game of football."

Solskjaer laments 'unforgivable' defending as Man Utd suffer Basaksehir shock

Jose Mourinho has insisted Harry Kane did nothing wrong after the England forward was criticised for how he won a penalty in Tottenham Hotspur's 2-1 win over Brighton in the Premier League last weekend.

Kane appeared to draw a foul from Adam Lallana to win the spot-kick, which he then converted to open the scoring at home to the Seagulls.

Mourinho, during his pre-match press conference ahead of Thursday's Europa League tie away to Ludogorets, was adamant any fault lay with Lallana.

"Harry Kane was in a position to control the ball and Lallana came in a reckless fashion. Why are you saying it is clever?" Mourinho said. "Clever is taking the ball and scoring a goal. It's a foul."

The experienced Portuguese boss added: "I thought it was a direct free-kick but VAR said it was inside the box because it was on the line. What are we talking about being clever?

"Harry Kane just wants to score goals. Lallana was reckless.

"Why are you speaking about us? Speak about Liverpool, Manchester United, City and others with 'clever' players and getting penalties. Don't speak about Harry Kane."

Tottenham will be without Sergio Reguilon, Erik Lamela and Serge Aurier for the trip to Bulgaria after the trio missed training on Wednesday.

"Reguilon is ill but not Covid, just ill," said Mourinho. "Lamela was having a little problem for quite a few weeks and we decided it was the time to stop.

"Aurier has a little problem, nothing important."

Jose Mourinho has insisted Harry Kane did nothing wrong after the England forward was criticised for how he won a penalty in Tottenham Hotspur's 2-1 win over Brighton in the Premier League last weekend.

Jose Mourinho has insisted Harry Kane did nothing wrong after the England forward was criticised for how he won a penalty in Tottenham Hotspur's 2-1 win over Brighton in the Premier League last weekend. Kane appeared to draw a foul from Adam Lallana to win the spot-kick, which he then converted to open the scoring at home to the Seagulls. Mourinho, during his pre-match press conference ahead of Thursday's Europa League tie away to Ludogorets, was adamant any fault lay with Lallana. "Harry Kane was in a position to control the ball and Lallana came in a reckless fashion. Why are you saying it is clever?" Mourinho said. "Clever is taking the ball and scoring a goal. It's a foul." The experienced Portuguese boss added: "I thought it was a direct free-kick but VAR said it was inside the box because it was on the line. What are we talking about being clever? "Harry Kane just wants to score goals. Lallana was reckless. "Why are you speaking about us? Speak about Liverpool, Manchester United, City and others with 'clever' players and getting penalties. Don't speak about Harry Kane." Tottenham will be without Sergio Reguilon, Erik Lamela and Serge Aurier for the trip to Bulgaria after the trio missed training on Wednesday. "Reguilon is ill but not Covid, just ill," said Mourinho. "Lamela was having a little problem for quite a few weeks and we decided it was the time to stop. "Aurier has a little problem, nothing important."

Mourinho defends Kane over penalty criticism

Lionel Messi scored as Barcelona overcame a depleted Dynamo Kiev 2-1 in the Champions League on Wednesday, while Juventus eased Ferencvaros aside and Manchester United slumped to an unexpected defeat in Turkey.

Nine-man Paris Saint-Germain lost to RB Leipzig in a repeat of last season's semi-final and Chelsea proved too strong for Rennes, with Timo Werner twice converting from the penalty spot.&nbsp;

Making his 150th appearance in European competition, Messi dispatched an early penalty at Camp Nou after he was fouled in the area and Gerard Pique headed in Ansu Fati's cross on the hour.

Viktor Tsygankov grabbed a consolation for coronavirus-hit Dynamo as Barca, winless in four games in La Liga, recorded their third successive Group G victory to stay three points clear of Juventus.

"We are happy because we won," said Barca coach Ronald Koeman. "But we have to play better than we did today. We have to improve, above all without the ball, where we haven't played well."

Cristiano Ronaldo made his first start for the Italian champions since September after testing positive for Covid-19 in a 4-1 win at Hungarian side Ferencvaros.

However, the Portuguese star was outshone in Budapest by Alvaro Morata, whose two goals put Andrea Pirlo's team in control.

Paulo Dybala added a third before an own goal from Lasha Dvali, with Franck Boli netting for the hosts in the final minute.

United produced a shambolic first-half defensive display as Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's side lost 2-1 against Istanbul Basaksehir.

Demba Ba collected the ball just inside his own half and raced through to beat goalkeeper Dean Henderson on 13 minutes, with Edin Visca smashing in a second after Juan Mata was stripped of possession.

Anthony Martial's header cut the deficit before half-time but United saw their momentum in Group H halted after wins over PSG and RB Leipzig last month.

"You don't just turn up and get three points in the Champions League. We weren't good enough, that's it. It's not easy to be positive when you've lost the way we did," Solskjaer told BT Sport.

<h2>- PSG capitulate in Leipzig -</h2>

Emil Forsberg's penalty earned Leipzig a 2-1 victory as they came from behind to beat a weakened Paris Saint-Germain, dealing a major blow to the Champions League aspirations of last season's runners-up.

Angel di Maria had given PSG an early lead in Germany but he then crucially missed a penalty for the French champions, who were missing both Neymar and Kylian Mbappe due to injury and ended the contest with nine men.

Christopher Nkunku levelled before half-time for Leipzig and Forsberg converted from the spot in the 57th minute before the visitors had both Idrissa Gueye and Presnel Kimpembe sent off.

"It's difficult. It's maybe our fault because we didn't get the second goal and then made a mistake on the penalty," PSG boss Thomas Tuchel told RMC Sport.

"There was a red card, it's then hard, 10 against 11. There were too many things going against us."

Chelsea strolled to a 3-0 win at home against Rennes who saw defender Dalbert sent off after conceding two penalties in the first half.

Werner took over spot-kick duties from Jorginho and confidently tucked both away before Tammy Abraham turned in a third for the Blues on 50 minutes.

Frank Lampard's men have yet to concede in Group E and are level on seven points with Sevilla, who rallied to defeat Krasnodar 3-2 despite the dismissal of captain Jesus Navas late in the first half.

Goals from Magomed Suleymanov and Marcus Berg, the second a penalty, put Krasnodar ahead in Spain but Ivan Rakitic pulled one back for Sevilla before the break.

Morocco striker Youssef En-Nesyri struck twice in four second-half minutes to floor Krasnodar and leave the Russians alongside Rennes on just one point.

Erling Braut Haaland notched a brace to lead Borussia Dortmund to a 3-0 win at Club Brugge and send the Germans top of Group F. Thorgan Hazard had opened the scoring in his native Belgium.

Felipe Caicedo's late equaliser earned Lazio a 1-1 draw at Zenit Saint Petersburg after Aleksandr Erokhin had struck in the first half in front of some 17,000 fans in Russia.

Lionel Messi scored as Barcelona overcame a depleted Dynamo Kiev 2-1 in the Champions League on Wednesday, while Juventus eased Ferencvaros aside and Manchester United slumped to an unexpected defeat in Turkey.

Lionel Messi scored as Barcelona overcame a depleted Dynamo Kiev 2-1 in the Champions League on Wednesday, while Juventus eased Ferencvaros aside and Manchester United slumped to an unexpected defeat in Turkey. Nine-man Paris Saint-Germain lost to RB Leipzig in a repeat of last season's semi-final and Chelsea proved too strong for Rennes, with Timo Werner twice converting from the penalty spot. Making his 150th appearance in European competition, Messi dispatched an early penalty at Camp Nou after he was fouled in the area and Gerard Pique headed in Ansu Fati's cross on the hour. Viktor Tsygankov grabbed a consolation for coronavirus-hit Dynamo as Barca, winless in four games in La Liga, recorded their third successive Group G victory to stay three points clear of Juventus. "We are happy because we won," said Barca coach Ronald Koeman. "But we have to play better than we did today. We have to improve, above all without the ball, where we haven't played well." Cristiano Ronaldo made his first start for the Italian champions since September after testing positive for Covid-19 in a 4-1 win at Hungarian side Ferencvaros. However, the Portuguese star was outshone in Budapest by Alvaro Morata, whose two goals put Andrea Pirlo's team in control. Paulo Dybala added a third before an own goal from Lasha Dvali, with Franck Boli netting for the hosts in the final minute. United produced a shambolic first-half defensive display as Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's side lost 2-1 against Istanbul Basaksehir. Demba Ba collected the ball just inside his own half and raced through to beat goalkeeper Dean Henderson on 13 minutes, with Edin Visca smashing in a second after Juan Mata was stripped of possession. Anthony Martial's header cut the deficit before half-time but United saw their momentum in Group H halted after wins over PSG and RB Leipzig last month. "You don't just turn up and get three points in the Champions League. We weren't good enough, that's it. It's not easy to be positive when you've lost the way we did," Solskjaer told BT Sport. - PSG capitulate in Leipzig - Emil Forsberg's penalty earned Leipzig a 2-1 victory as they came from behind to beat a weakened Paris Saint-Germain, dealing a major blow to the Champions League aspirations of last season's runners-up. Angel di Maria had given PSG an early lead in Germany but he then crucially missed a penalty for the French champions, who were missing both Neymar and Kylian Mbappe due to injury and ended the contest with nine men. Christopher Nkunku levelled before half-time for Leipzig and Forsberg converted from the spot in the 57th minute before the visitors had both Idrissa Gueye and Presnel Kimpembe sent off. "It's difficult. It's maybe our fault because we didn't get the second goal and then made a mistake on the penalty," PSG boss Thomas Tuchel told RMC Sport. "There was a red card, it's then hard, 10 against 11. There were too many things going against us." Chelsea strolled to a 3-0 win at home against Rennes who saw defender Dalbert sent off after conceding two penalties in the first half. Werner took over spot-kick duties from Jorginho and confidently tucked both away before Tammy Abraham turned in a third for the Blues on 50 minutes. Frank Lampard's men have yet to concede in Group E and are level on seven points with Sevilla, who rallied to defeat Krasnodar 3-2 despite the dismissal of captain Jesus Navas late in the first half. Goals from Magomed Suleymanov and Marcus Berg, the second a penalty, put Krasnodar ahead in Spain but Ivan Rakitic pulled one back for Sevilla before the break. Morocco striker Youssef En-Nesyri struck twice in four second-half minutes to floor Krasnodar and leave the Russians alongside Rennes on just one point. Erling Braut Haaland notched a brace to lead Borussia Dortmund to a 3-0 win at Club Brugge and send the Germans top of Group F. Thorgan Hazard had opened the scoring in his native Belgium. Felipe Caicedo's late equaliser earned Lazio a 1-1 draw at Zenit Saint Petersburg after Aleksandr Erokhin had struck in the first half in front of some 17,000 fans in Russia.

Barca, Juve win in Champions League as woeful Man Utd beaten

Mumbai Indians on Thursday defeated Delhi Capitals by 57 runs at the Dubai International Stadium to storm into the final of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020. Delhi Capitals were simply outplayed by the class of Mumbai Indians as they fell short by 57 runs and will now have to play the Qualifier 2 against the winner of Sunrisers Hyderabad versus Royal Challengers Bangalore in a bid to secure a berth in the final of IPL 2020.&nbsp;

<h2>Power-paced Mumbai Indians batting&nbsp;unit lights up Dubai</h2>

Mumbai Indians’ batting scorecard might not look the best with captain Rohit Sharma scoring a golden duck and Kieron Pollard a two-ball duck. Breathtaking contributions with the willow by Quinton de Kock (40 off 25), Suryakumar Yadav (51 off 38), Ishan Kishan (55* off 30) and Hardik Pandya (37* off 14) made sure Mumbai Indians the four-time IPL winners had a mammoth total on the board.

The fact that MI batters never slowed down their run-scoring tempo despite losing two big wickets in Rohit and Pollard for cheap, shows the quality and temperament of the defending champions.&nbsp;

Mumbai Indians were asked to bat first by Delhi Capitals captain Shreyas Iyer with Ravichandran Ashwin taking the Delhi outfit off to a flyer as he dismissed Rohit for a golden duck. However, SKY continued his sensational run with the bat and stitched an important partnership with in-form Quinton de Kock.

<img alt="MI" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="8d29907d-95f9-42cc-86fc-618ca8aed260" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/EmEV2XcVoAEPISB.jpg" />

<h2>Ishan Kishan and Hardik Pandya show</h2>

Ishan Kishan chipped in after de Kock’s departure but his best shots came later in the innings as he went hammer and tonks. Hardik Pandya showed his power-hitting prowess as he whacked five sixes in his 37-run knock of 14 deliveries where he scored his runs at a staggering strike-rate of 264.29.

<img alt="MI" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="627ed4af-5060-46dc-bfe6-cd5b1143f1a0" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/EmEg85cU4AAmr9O.jpg" />

<h2>Three ducks for Delhi Capitals</h2>

Chasing a massive 201, Delhi Capitals were down on their knees when Trent Boult bowled a double-wicket maiden in the very first over while dismissing Prithvi Shaw (0) and Ajinkya Rahane (0). Jasprit Bumrah, from the other end, spiced up things even more with an inch-perfect yorker to get the better of Shikhar Dhawan (0).

<img alt="MI" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2d9e3bf4-6bdc-450d-ac8c-cf1fe39c372c" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/EmEn8_oU0AA7lYM.jpg" />

Skipper Shreyas Iyer departed soon, off 12, by Bumrah. While Marcus Stoinis played a gritty knock to save some blushes with a half-century (65 off 36), Rishabh Pant continued his poor run and was dismissed for 3. Axar Patel tried to chip in with some runs laced by lusty blows but it was too little too late for Delhi Capitals following a horrendous start to the chase as they ended up with 143-8 on the board. To complete Mumbai Indians' domination, the Bumrah and Boult bowled a double-wicket maiden each - shows what quality this side has.

Delhi Capitals will now have to play the Qualifier 2 against the winner of Sunrisers Hyderabad versus Royal Challengers Bangalore in a bid to secure a berth in the final of IPL 2020. The second qualifier is scheduled to be played in Abu Dhabi on November 8 (Sunday).

Mumbai Indians on Thursday defeated Delhi Capitals by 57 runs at the Dubai International Stadium to storm into the final of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020. Delhi Capitals were simply outplayed by the class of Mumbai Indians as they fell short by 57 runs and will now have to play the Qualifier 2 against the winner of Sunrisers Hyderabad versus Royal Challengers Bangalore in a bid to secure a berth in the final of IPL 2020.

Mumbai Indians on Thursday defeated Delhi Capitals by 57 runs at the Dubai International Stadium to storm into the final of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020. Delhi Capitals were simply outplayed by the class of Mumbai Indians as they fell short by 57 runs and will now have to play the Qualifier 2 against the winner of Sunrisers Hyderabad versus Royal Challengers Bangalore in a bid to secure a berth in the final of IPL 2020. Power-paced Mumbai Indians batting unit lights up Dubai Mumbai Indians’ batting scorecard might not look the best with captain Rohit Sharma scoring a golden duck and Kieron Pollard a two-ball duck. Breathtaking contributions with the willow by Quinton de Kock (40 off 25), Suryakumar Yadav (51 off 38), Ishan Kishan (55* off 30) and Hardik Pandya (37* off 14) made sure Mumbai Indians the four-time IPL winners had a mammoth total on the board. The fact that MI batters never slowed down their run-scoring tempo despite losing two big wickets in Rohit and Pollard for cheap, shows the quality and temperament of the defending champions. Mumbai Indians were asked to bat first by Delhi Capitals captain Shreyas Iyer with Ravichandran Ashwin taking the Delhi outfit off to a flyer as he dismissed Rohit for a golden duck. However, SKY continued his sensational run with the bat and stitched an important partnership with in-form Quinton de Kock. Ishan Kishan and Hardik Pandya show Ishan Kishan chipped in after de Kock’s departure but his best shots came later in the innings as he went hammer and tonks. Hardik Pandya showed his power-hitting prowess as he whacked five sixes in his 37-run knock of 14 deliveries where he scored his runs at a staggering strike-rate of 264.29. Three ducks for Delhi Capitals Chasing a massive 201, Delhi Capitals were down on their knees when Trent Boult bowled a double-wicket maiden in the very first over while dismissing Prithvi Shaw (0) and Ajinkya Rahane (0). Jasprit Bumrah, from the other end, spiced up things even more with an inch-perfect yorker to get the better of Shikhar Dhawan (0). Skipper Shreyas Iyer departed soon, off 12, by Bumrah. While Marcus Stoinis played a gritty knock to save some blushes with a half-century (65 off 36), Rishabh Pant continued his poor run and was dismissed for 3. Axar Patel tried to chip in with some runs laced by lusty blows but it was too little too late for Delhi Capitals following a horrendous start to the chase as they ended up with 143-8 on the board. To complete Mumbai Indians' domination, the Bumrah and Boult bowled a double-wicket maiden each - shows what quality this side has. Delhi Capitals will now have to play the Qualifier 2 against the winner of Sunrisers Hyderabad versus Royal Challengers Bangalore in a bid to secure a berth in the final of IPL 2020. The second qualifier is scheduled to be played in Abu Dhabi on November 8 (Sunday).

MI vs DC, IPL 2020 Qualifier 1: Mumbai Indians storm into the final, blow away Delhi Capitals

Australia gambling portal Sportsbet has shelled out a mind-boggling $23 million after calling the US Elections 2020 in favour of Democrat Joe Biden even though President Donald Trump has called out three states for allegedly manipulating the vote.

The sports gambling website called the US Elections 2020 for Biden on Thursday (Wednesday in the USA) as they announced a major “early payout” for users who had put their money on Biden while hitting there was still plenty of cash to be made.

“The market is still open” tweeted Sportsbet for those who were looking to put their money on the US campaign. They further revealed that a whopping $23 million had already been paid out to individuals who had placed their wagers on the face-off.

Sportsbet further wrote that other “markets” are closed. The counting process continued to Thursday with the COVID-19 pandemic throwing the vote into disarray. Still, millions of mail-in ballots are remained to be counted.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/did-jofra-archer-predict-a-win-for-joe-biden-over-donald-trump-old-tweet-goes-viral-340515" hreflang="en">Did Jofra Archer predict a win for Joe Biden over Donald Trump? Old tweet goes viral</a>

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BIDEN EARLY PAYOUT: 
- $23 million paid out 
- The market is still open if you wish to bet on Biden or Trump to win the Presidential Election 
- All other markets now closed 
- Now get some sleep<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/USElection2020?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#USElection2020</a>
— Sportsbet.com.au (@sportsbetcomau) <a href="https://twitter.com/sportsbetcomau/status/1324143663568412672?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 5, 2020</a></blockquote>
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President Trump seemed confident of winning the US Elections 2020 on Tuesday. However, ballot-counting has handed an advantage to Biden after victory calls in Arizona and Michigan.

The former vice-president has, so far, notched up 264 of the 270 electoral votes needed to become the next president of the US. Whereas Trump has just 214 votes of the votes he requires to remain in the White House.&nbsp;

Donald Trump’s campaign has filed lawsuits in Pennsylvania, Michigan and Georgia after poll watchers observed anomalies in ballot counting. It has further demanded a recount in Wisconsin. Earlier, Trump had declared victory in Pennsylvania, Georgia and North Carolina despite none of those states announcing a winner. 
&nbsp;

Australia gambling portal Sportsbet has shelled out a mind-boggling $23 million after calling the US Elections 2020 in favour of Democrat Joe Biden even though President Donald Trump has called out three states for allegedly manipulating the vote.

Australia gambling portal Sportsbet has shelled out a mind-boggling $23 million after calling the US Elections 2020 in favour of Democrat Joe Biden even though President Donald Trump has called out three states for allegedly manipulating the vote. The sports gambling website called the US Elections 2020 for Biden on Thursday (Wednesday in the USA) as they announced a major “early payout” for users who had put their money on Biden while hitting there was still plenty of cash to be made. “The market is still open” tweeted Sportsbet for those who were looking to put their money on the US campaign. They further revealed that a whopping $23 million had already been paid out to individuals who had placed their wagers on the face-off. Sportsbet further wrote that other “markets” are closed. The counting process continued to Thursday with the COVID-19 pandemic throwing the vote into disarray. Still, millions of mail-in ballots are remained to be counted. ALSO READ: Did Jofra Archer predict a win for Joe Biden over Donald Trump? Old tweet goes viral BIDEN EARLY PAYOUT: - $23 million paid out - The market is still open if you wish to bet on Biden or Trump to win the Presidential Election - All other markets now closed - Now get some sleep#USElection2020 — Sportsbet.com.au (@sportsbetcomau) November 5, 2020 × President Trump seemed confident of winning the US Elections 2020 on Tuesday. However, ballot-counting has handed an advantage to Biden after victory calls in Arizona and Michigan. The former vice-president has, so far, notched up 264 of the 270 electoral votes needed to become the next president of the US. Whereas Trump has just 214 votes of the votes he requires to remain in the White House. Donald Trump’s campaign has filed lawsuits in Pennsylvania, Michigan and Georgia after poll watchers observed anomalies in ballot counting. It has further demanded a recount in Wisconsin. Earlier, Trump had declared victory in Pennsylvania, Georgia and North Carolina despite none of those states announcing a winner.

Australian bookies shell out $23 million early on Joe Biden win over Donald Trump

Saudi Arabia on Thursday said that it will host its first Formula One Grand Prix for the first time next year with the Red Sea city of Jeddah set to host a night race.&nbsp;

"Hosting this event is part of the 'Vision 2030' project, with the support of our leadership and especially His Highness the Crown Prince," Sports Minister Prince Abdulaziz bin Turki said, referring to the kingdom's transformation plan.

Saudi Arabia has been locked in for the 2021 season as part of the record 23-race F1 programme as the motorsport seeks to bounce back stronger after a shorter 2020 season that has been hampered due to COVID-19 pandemic.

"We hope to overcome this pandemic and that people will be able to attend, but things aren't clear yet in this regard," Prince Abdulaziz told a press conference.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/lewis-hamilton-wins-in-imola-as-mercedes-claim-record-7th-straight-constructors-title-339464" hreflang="en">Lewis Hamilton wins in Imola as Mercedes claim record 7th straight constructors' title</a>

Formula One has been under the spotlight over staging a race in Bahrain and the addition of Saudi Arabia might escalate scrutiny from human rights watchers.

Saudi Arabia, along with rival Qatar, is also competing to host the 2030 Asian Games.&nbsp;

Under de facto ruler Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s “Vision 2030” master plan, Saudi Arabia is aiming to clean up their image of rights abuses and export of hardline technology.

Critics say that in a country where two-thirds of the population is under 30, the sporting drive is aimed at blunting public frustration over economic downturn and soaring youth unemployment.

"Saudi Arabia has worked hard at 'sportswashing' its reputation -- trying to use the glamour of sport as a public relations tool to improve its international image," Amnesty International said earlier this year.

(With inputs from AFP) 
&nbsp;

Saudi Arabia on Thursday said that it will host its first Formula One Grand Prix for the first time next year with the Red Sea city of Jeddah set to host a night race.

Saudi Arabia on Thursday said that it will host its first Formula One Grand Prix for the first time next year with the Red Sea city of Jeddah set to host a night race. "Hosting this event is part of the 'Vision 2030' project, with the support of our leadership and especially His Highness the Crown Prince," Sports Minister Prince Abdulaziz bin Turki said, referring to the kingdom's transformation plan. Saudi Arabia has been locked in for the 2021 season as part of the record 23-race F1 programme as the motorsport seeks to bounce back stronger after a shorter 2020 season that has been hampered due to COVID-19 pandemic. "We hope to overcome this pandemic and that people will be able to attend, but things aren't clear yet in this regard," Prince Abdulaziz told a press conference. ALSO READ: Lewis Hamilton wins in Imola as Mercedes claim record 7th straight constructors' title Formula One has been under the spotlight over staging a race in Bahrain and the addition of Saudi Arabia might escalate scrutiny from human rights watchers. Saudi Arabia, along with rival Qatar, is also competing to host the 2030 Asian Games. Under de facto ruler Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s “Vision 2030” master plan, Saudi Arabia is aiming to clean up their image of rights abuses and export of hardline technology. Critics say that in a country where two-thirds of the population is under 30, the sporting drive is aimed at blunting public frustration over economic downturn and soaring youth unemployment. "Saudi Arabia has worked hard at 'sportswashing' its reputation -- trying to use the glamour of sport as a public relations tool to improve its international image," Amnesty International said earlier this year. (With inputs from AFP)

Saudi Arabia set to host F1 GP for first time in 2021

Juventus forward Cristiano Ronaldo was on Thursday named in the Portugal squad to play a friendly against Andorra and Nations League games against France and Croatia. The five-time Ballon d’Or winner had tested positive for COVID-19 on October 13 and went on to miss Portugal’s match against Sweden.

The 35-year-old took 19 days to test negative for the dreaded virus as he returned to the pitch with a brace for Juventus against Spezia in Serie A on Sunday. He also featured in Juventus’ 4-1 win over Ferencvaros in the UEFA Champions League on Wednesday.

Reigning European champions Portugal take on Andorra on Wednesday before Nations League A3 matches at home against France on November 15 and away match against Croatia three days after.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ole-out-manchester-united-approach-mauricio-pochettino-about-becoming-next-manager-340890" hreflang="en">Ole out? Manchester United approach Mauricio Pochettino about becoming next manager</a>

However, the 37-year-old central defender Pepe is out with a foot injury.&nbsp;

"He's an example for the younger ones at training, with his attitude," Santos said of Pepe, who has just signed a contract extension until 2023 with Porto.

"It's a shame he's not there because normally he's a shoo-in starter."

Wolves winger Pedro Neto and Sporting Braga forward Paulinho also earned maiden call-ups.&nbsp;

Portugal are joint leaders with France of group A3, each on 10 points.

"The goal will be to once again qualify for the Nations League final four and defend the trophy we won last year," said Santos.

A secondary objective was to "also have a look at some players who have the quality to represent this team", the coach added.

<h2>Portugal squad</h2>

Goalkeepers (3): Anthony Lopes (Lyon/FRA), Rui Patricio (Wolverhampton/ENG), Rui Silva (Grenada/ESP)

Defenders (8): Joao Cancelo (Manchester City/ENG), Nelson Semedo (Wolverhampton/ENG), Jose Fonte (Lille/FRA), Ruben Dias (Manchester City/ENG), Ruben Semedo (Olympiakos/GRE), Mario Rui (Napoli/ITA), Raphael Guerreiro (Dortmund/GER), Domingos Duarte (Grenada/ESP)

Midfielders (7): Danilo Pereira (Paris Saint-Germain/FRA), Ruben Neves (Wolverhampton/ENG), William Carvalho (Real Betis/ESP), Bruno Fernandes (Manchester United/ENG), Renato Sanches (Lille/FRA), Joao Moutinho (Wolverhampton/ENG), Sergio Oliveira(Porto)

Forwards (7): Bernardo Silva (Manchester City/ENG), Diogo Jota (Liverpool/ENG), Cristiano Ronaldo (Juventus/ITA), Francisco Trincao (Barcelona/ESP), Joao Felix (Atletico Madrid/ESP), Pedro Neto (Wolverhampton/ENG), Paulinho (SC Braga)

(With inputs from AFP) 
&nbsp;

Juventus forward Cristiano Ronaldo was on Thursday named in the Portugal squad to play a friendly against Andorra and Nations League games against France and Croatia.

Juventus forward Cristiano Ronaldo was on Thursday named in the Portugal squad to play a friendly against Andorra and Nations League games against France and Croatia. The five-time Ballon d’Or winner had tested positive for COVID-19 on October 13 and went on to miss Portugal’s match against Sweden. The 35-year-old took 19 days to test negative for the dreaded virus as he returned to the pitch with a brace for Juventus against Spezia in Serie A on Sunday. He also featured in Juventus’ 4-1 win over Ferencvaros in the UEFA Champions League on Wednesday. Reigning European champions Portugal take on Andorra on Wednesday before Nations League A3 matches at home against France on November 15 and away match against Croatia three days after. ALSO READ: Ole out? Manchester United approach Mauricio Pochettino about becoming next manager However, the 37-year-old central defender Pepe is out with a foot injury. "He's an example for the younger ones at training, with his attitude," Santos said of Pepe, who has just signed a contract extension until 2023 with Porto. "It's a shame he's not there because normally he's a shoo-in starter." Wolves winger Pedro Neto and Sporting Braga forward Paulinho also earned maiden call-ups. Portugal are joint leaders with France of group A3, each on 10 points. "The goal will be to once again qualify for the Nations League final four and defend the trophy we won last year," said Santos. A secondary objective was to "also have a look at some players who have the quality to represent this team", the coach added. Portugal squad Goalkeepers (3): Anthony Lopes (Lyon/FRA), Rui Patricio (Wolverhampton/ENG), Rui Silva (Grenada/ESP) Defenders (8): Joao Cancelo (Manchester City/ENG), Nelson Semedo (Wolverhampton/ENG), Jose Fonte (Lille/FRA), Ruben Dias (Manchester City/ENG), Ruben Semedo (Olympiakos/GRE), Mario Rui (Napoli/ITA), Raphael Guerreiro (Dortmund/GER), Domingos Duarte (Grenada/ESP) Midfielders (7): Danilo Pereira (Paris Saint-Germain/FRA), Ruben Neves (Wolverhampton/ENG), William Carvalho (Real Betis/ESP), Bruno Fernandes (Manchester United/ENG), Renato Sanches (Lille/FRA), Joao Moutinho (Wolverhampton/ENG), Sergio Oliveira(Porto) Forwards (7): Bernardo Silva (Manchester City/ENG), Diogo Jota (Liverpool/ENG), Cristiano Ronaldo (Juventus/ITA), Francisco Trincao (Barcelona/ESP), Joao Felix (Atletico Madrid/ESP), Pedro Neto (Wolverhampton/ENG), Paulinho (SC Braga) (With inputs from AFP)

Cristiano Ronaldo to return for Portugal against France, Croatia

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Zee News Rajasthan

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Subhayan Chakraborty

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