Barcelona must weigh up the decision whether to rest Lionel Messi for Saturday's trip to Getafe ahead of a congested run of fixtures, while Real Madrid are still waiting on the return of Eden Hazard from injury.

Messi played the full 90 minutes in Argentina's World Cup qualifiers against Ecuador and Bolivia during the international break, the second of which was played at altitude in La Paz.

The Barca captain has not missed a single minute for his club since football resumed in June following the coronavirus shutdown.

However, with seven games in the space of 21 days awaiting Barca, coach Ronald Koeman could elect to give Messi a breather before the start of the team's Champions League campaign. &nbsp;

Barca host Hungarian side Ferencvaros on Tuesday and then face sworn enemies Real Madrid four days later behind closed doors at the Camp Nou.

The Catalan club head to Italy for a Champions League clash with Juventus on October 28 before games against Alaves and Real Betis either side of the visit of Dynamo Kiev.

Leaders Madrid are unbeaten in La Liga since March, winning 13 of their past 15 games, and welcome Cadiz to the capital this weekend.

Zinedine Zidane could also opt to rotate some players but Thibaut Courtois, Karim Benzema and Vinicius Junior are in line to play after resting while others were away on international duty.

Courtois left the Belgium squad with a back injury and while he is fit to return, compatriot Hazard is not yet ready for action.

The 29-year-old has yet to feature this season having picked up a muscle injury as he worked his way back from an ankle problem.

He is also expected to miss next weekend's Clasico, but Courtois believes Hazard will come good after scoring just once in an injury-plagued first season in Spain.

"I have no doubt we are going to see the best of Hazard," Courtois told Cadena Ser radio.

"He is more desperate than anyone to show it. He's coming along well and&nbsp; hopefully soon he can prove it.

He added: "I am sure that in no time he will explode and will give many joys to the team."

Atletico Madrid visit Celta Vigo in their first game since the sale of Ghana midfielder Thomas Partey to Arsenal on transfer deadline day.

Partey made 188 appearances for the Atletico and was part of the sides that reached the 2016 Champions League final and beat Arsenal on the way to winning the Europa League in 2018.

&nbsp;

<h2>One to watch:&nbsp;Oussama Idrissi</h2>

The Dutch-born Morocco international could make his Sevilla debut at Granada after joining the club on a five-year deal from AZ Alkmaar.

Idrissi, 24, scored 13 goals in 25 games in the Eredivisie last season before it was declared over in March due to the Covid-19 outbreak.

Julen Lopetegui's Europa League winners are one of four undefeated teams in La Liga this term, with seven points from their first three matches.

<h2>Key stats</h2>

12 - goals scored by Sergio Ramos since the start of the 2019/20 season, more than any other defender in Europe's top five leagues.

250 - goals scored by Karim Benzema for Real Madrid. The Frenchman is only the fifth player to reach the mark in club history

&nbsp;

<h2>Fixtures</h2>

Saturday (all times GMT)

Granada v Sevilla (1100), Celta Vigo v Atletico Madrid (1400), Real Madrid v Cadiz (1630), Getafe v Barcelona (1900)

Sunday

Eibar v Osasuna (1000), Athletic Bilbao v Levante (1200), Villarreal v Valencia (1400), Alaves v Elche (1630), Huesca v Real Valladolid (1630), Real Betis v Real Sociedad (1900)

Barcelona must weigh up the decision whether to rest Lionel Messi for Saturday's trip to Getafe ahead of a congested run of fixtures, while Real Madrid are still waiting on the return of Eden Hazard from injury.

Barcelona must weigh up the decision whether to rest Lionel Messi for Saturday's trip to Getafe ahead of a congested run of fixtures, while Real Madrid are still waiting on the return of Eden Hazard from injury. Messi played the full 90 minutes in Argentina's World Cup qualifiers against Ecuador and Bolivia during the international break, the second of which was played at altitude in La Paz. The Barca captain has not missed a single minute for his club since football resumed in June following the coronavirus shutdown. However, with seven games in the space of 21 days awaiting Barca, coach Ronald Koeman could elect to give Messi a breather before the start of the team's Champions League campaign. Barca host Hungarian side Ferencvaros on Tuesday and then face sworn enemies Real Madrid four days later behind closed doors at the Camp Nou. The Catalan club head to Italy for a Champions League clash with Juventus on October 28 before games against Alaves and Real Betis either side of the visit of Dynamo Kiev. Leaders Madrid are unbeaten in La Liga since March, winning 13 of their past 15 games, and welcome Cadiz to the capital this weekend. Zinedine Zidane could also opt to rotate some players but Thibaut Courtois, Karim Benzema and Vinicius Junior are in line to play after resting while others were away on international duty. Courtois left the Belgium squad with a back injury and while he is fit to return, compatriot Hazard is not yet ready for action. The 29-year-old has yet to feature this season having picked up a muscle injury as he worked his way back from an ankle problem. He is also expected to miss next weekend's Clasico, but Courtois believes Hazard will come good after scoring just once in an injury-plagued first season in Spain. "I have no doubt we are going to see the best of Hazard," Courtois told Cadena Ser radio. "He is more desperate than anyone to show it. He's coming along well and hopefully soon he can prove it. He added: "I am sure that in no time he will explode and will give many joys to the team." Atletico Madrid visit Celta Vigo in their first game since the sale of Ghana midfielder Thomas Partey to Arsenal on transfer deadline day. Partey made 188 appearances for the Atletico and was part of the sides that reached the 2016 Champions League final and beat Arsenal on the way to winning the Europa League in 2018. One to watch: Oussama Idrissi The Dutch-born Morocco international could make his Sevilla debut at Granada after joining the club on a five-year deal from AZ Alkmaar. Idrissi, 24, scored 13 goals in 25 games in the Eredivisie last season before it was declared over in March due to the Covid-19 outbreak. Julen Lopetegui's Europa League winners are one of four undefeated teams in La Liga this term, with seven points from their first three matches. Key stats 12 - goals scored by Sergio Ramos since the start of the 2019/20 season, more than any other defender in Europe's top five leagues. 250 - goals scored by Karim Benzema for Real Madrid. The Frenchman is only the fifth player to reach the mark in club history Fixtures Saturday (all times GMT) Granada v Sevilla (1100), Celta Vigo v Atletico Madrid (1400), Real Madrid v Cadiz (1630), Getafe v Barcelona (1900) Sunday Eibar v Osasuna (1000), Athletic Bilbao v Levante (1200), Villarreal v Valencia (1400), Alaves v Elche (1630), Huesca v Real Valladolid (1630), Real Betis v Real Sociedad (1900)

Barca ponder Messi rest as Madrid continue to wait on Hazard

Former Indian wicket-keeper Deep Dasgupta said he wasn’t surprised by Eoin Morgan being named the new Kolkata Knight Riders captain after Dinesh Karthik stepped down from the leadership duties in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020.

KKR on Friday announced that the 2019 World Cup winning captain will take over the captaincy duties from Karthik, who helped KKR win four out of seven matches in IPL 2020 so far.&nbsp;

Karthik has captained KKR in 37 matches since 2018 with a record of 19 wins and 17 defeats. While KKR qualified to the playoffs in 2018, they ended fifth in the league stage last season.&nbsp;

"I'm not surprised with this decision because more than Dinesh Karthik's form as a batsman or captain, we also have to notice the fact that KKR had a World Cup-winning skipper in their side in Eoin Morgan.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2020-mumbai-indians-rohit-sharma-and-kieron-pollard-near-records-as-they-face-kkr-335773" hreflang="en">IPL 2020: Mumbai Indians' Rohit Sharma and Kieron Pollard near records as they face KKR</a>

"I felt this was on the cards as soon as KKR had picked up Morgan in the auction in 2019. Your inclined to think on these lines when you have a World Cup-winning captain in your team," the cricketer-turned-commentator, told News Tak.

However, Dasgupta stated that KKR players might struggle to adapt to Morgan’s captaincy but backed the Englishman to carry the team forward in IPL 2020.&nbsp;

"KKR might fall apart or flourish after this decision. Team policies, strategies and mentality changes when there is a change in leadership, especially in the middle of a season, because every captain is different. There might be a few players who might not be able to adapt to the way Morgan leads the team or can't relate to his style of captaincy.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2020-dinesh-karthik-steps-down-from-kkr-captaincy-eoin-morgan-named-new-skipper-335683" hreflang="en">IPL 2020: Dinesh Karthik steps down from KKR captaincy, Eoin Morgan named new skipper</a>

"But at the same time I think the way Morgan has led the England team in the past 2-3 years.... I think he has the capability to handle unforeseen situations but it will be interesting to see how he leads this team," Dasgupta said. 
KKR will take on Mumbai Indians in Abu Dhabi on Friday. 
&nbsp;

Former Indian wicket-keeper Deep Dasgupta said he wasn’t surprised by Eoin Morgan being named the new Kolkata Knight Riders captain after Dinesh Karthik stepped down from the leadership duties in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020.

Former Indian wicket-keeper Deep Dasgupta said he wasn’t surprised by Eoin Morgan being named the new Kolkata Knight Riders captain after Dinesh Karthik stepped down from the leadership duties in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020. KKR on Friday announced that the 2019 World Cup winning captain will take over the captaincy duties from Karthik, who helped KKR win four out of seven matches in IPL 2020 so far. Karthik has captained KKR in 37 matches since 2018 with a record of 19 wins and 17 defeats. While KKR qualified to the playoffs in 2018, they ended fifth in the league stage last season. "I'm not surprised with this decision because more than Dinesh Karthik's form as a batsman or captain, we also have to notice the fact that KKR had a World Cup-winning skipper in their side in Eoin Morgan. ALSO READ: IPL 2020: Mumbai Indians' Rohit Sharma and Kieron Pollard near records as they face KKR "I felt this was on the cards as soon as KKR had picked up Morgan in the auction in 2019. Your inclined to think on these lines when you have a World Cup-winning captain in your team," the cricketer-turned-commentator, told News Tak. However, Dasgupta stated that KKR players might struggle to adapt to Morgan’s captaincy but backed the Englishman to carry the team forward in IPL 2020. "KKR might fall apart or flourish after this decision. Team policies, strategies and mentality changes when there is a change in leadership, especially in the middle of a season, because every captain is different. There might be a few players who might not be able to adapt to the way Morgan leads the team or can't relate to his style of captaincy. ALSO READ: IPL 2020: Dinesh Karthik steps down from KKR captaincy, Eoin Morgan named new skipper "But at the same time I think the way Morgan has led the England team in the past 2-3 years.... I think he has the capability to handle unforeseen situations but it will be interesting to see how he leads this team," Dasgupta said. KKR will take on Mumbai Indians in Abu Dhabi on Friday.

IPL 2020: Deep Dasgupta not surprised by Eoin Morgan taking over Dinesh Karthik as KKR captain

With defender Harry Maguire going through a tough patch on the field, Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer feels the England international will “bounce” back after a torrid start to the season but could be out of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/premier-league">Premier League</a> match against Newcastle United due to injury.

Maguire – the world’s most expensive defender, has struggled in the 2020-21 season since the Greek court case in August. The 27-year-old was handed a suspended 21-month sentence for many charges including assaulting a police officer. 
On Wednesday, Maguire was sent off during England’s 1-0 defeat to Denmark in the Nations League as his poor run of form continued.&nbsp;

"When Harry is part of the England team that beats number-one ranked Belgium, that's just a normal day and then you get the headlines when you get the sending-off," said Solskjaer.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-clubs-reject-project-big-picture-335660" hreflang="en">Premier League clubs reject 'Project Big Picture'</a>

"That's just football for you. There's so many ups and downs that we have got to deal with it, individually and as a group.

"Harry's got great resilience. I know he'll bounce back. I'll know that he wants to play, he wants to just work his way out of the last couple of games that he's been criticised for."

Solskjaer further said that Maguire picked up a niggle against Denmark and would undergo a fitness test on Friday. Before the internationals break, Manchester United were thrashed 6-1 by Tottenham Hotspur.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/liverpool-face-everton-threat-as-man-utd-bid-to-stop-the-rot-335652" hreflang="en">Liverpool face Everton threat as Man Utd bid to stop the rot</a>

"It's one of those things that you have to get over as soon as you can and move on," Solskjaer said. "We know any little chance from outside... you want to create a division.

"I think Bruno (Fernandes) spoke really well the other day about how we are united, we have to stay together. We can't listen to everyone outside. We've got to just get on with it."

The Manchester United boss further confirmed that new signing Edinson Cavani will miss the trip to St. James’ Part as he is still under quarantine.

With defender Harry Maguire going through a tough patch on the field, Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer feels the England international will “bounce” back after a torrid start to the season but could be out of Premier League match against Newcastle United due to injury.

With defender Harry Maguire going through a tough patch on the field, Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer feels the England international will “bounce” back after a torrid start to the season but could be out of Premier League match against Newcastle United due to injury. Maguire – the world’s most expensive defender, has struggled in the 2020-21 season since the Greek court case in August. The 27-year-old was handed a suspended 21-month sentence for many charges including assaulting a police officer. On Wednesday, Maguire was sent off during England’s 1-0 defeat to Denmark in the Nations League as his poor run of form continued. "When Harry is part of the England team that beats number-one ranked Belgium, that's just a normal day and then you get the headlines when you get the sending-off," said Solskjaer. ALSO READ: Premier League clubs reject 'Project Big Picture' "That's just football for you. There's so many ups and downs that we have got to deal with it, individually and as a group. "Harry's got great resilience. I know he'll bounce back. I'll know that he wants to play, he wants to just work his way out of the last couple of games that he's been criticised for." Solskjaer further said that Maguire picked up a niggle against Denmark and would undergo a fitness test on Friday. Before the internationals break, Manchester United were thrashed 6-1 by Tottenham Hotspur. ALSO READ: Liverpool face Everton threat as Man Utd bid to stop the rot "It's one of those things that you have to get over as soon as you can and move on," Solskjaer said. "We know any little chance from outside... you want to create a division. "I think Bruno (Fernandes) spoke really well the other day about how we are united, we have to stay together. We can't listen to everyone outside. We've got to just get on with it." The Manchester United boss further confirmed that new signing Edinson Cavani will miss the trip to St. James’ Part as he is still under quarantine.

Harry Maguire will 'bounce back' after torrid start but could miss Newcastle United match: Solskjaer

Mumbai Indians take on Kolkata Knight Riders on Friday at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi as the action in Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 continues. So far in IPL history, the matches between KKR and MI have been the most one-sided ones and the Rohit Sharma-led outfit would be looking to continue their run against the Knight Riders.

However, KKR would be hoping for a fresh start under the captaincy of Eoin Morgan after Dinesh Karthik on Friday handed over the captaincy duties to the World Cup-winning English captain. In the previous encounter between MI and KKR, Mumbai Indians came victorious.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2020-dinesh-karthik-steps-down-from-kkr-captaincy-eoin-morgan-named-new-skipper-335683">IPL 2020: Dinesh Karthik steps down from KKR captaincy</a>

<h2>MI vs KKR - Head-to-head stats:</h2>

Talking about head-to-head encounters, MI have won a staggering 20 matches of the 26 clashes against KKR with the Kolkata Knight Riders winning just six of the matches. MI boast the maximum winning percentage against KKR (76.92%) and would be eager to continue their domination with two more points on Friday.&nbsp;

Rohit Sharma has the most runs when it comes to matches between MI and KKR with 904 runs under his belt and needs 96 runs to complete 1,000 runs against the Knights. Most wickets in KKR vs MI encounters go to Sunil Narine with 22 scalps but with his contentious action, it won’t be a surprise if he misses another match in IPL 2020.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2020-jos-buttler-to-take-over-as-rajasthan-royals-captain-rr-coo-quashes-rumours-335721" hreflang="en">IPL 2020: Jos Buttler to take over as Rajasthan Royals captain? RR COO reacts</a>

Given the slowish pitch in Abu Dhabi, a score of 170 is deemed as competitive.&nbsp;

<h2>MI vs KKR - Squads:</h2>

Kolkata Knight Riders Squad: Tom Banton, Shubman Gill, Nitish Rana, Eoin Morgan, Dinesh Karthik(w/c), Andre Russell, Rahul Tripathi, Pat Cummins, Kamlesh Nagarkoti, Varun Chakravarthy, Prasidh Krishna, Sunil Narine, Kuldeep Yadav, Sandeep Warrier, Siddhesh Lad, Nikhil Naik, Chris Green, Lockie Ferguson, Rinku Singh, Ali Khan, Shivam Mavi, Manimaran Siddharth

Mumbai Indians Squad: Rohit Sharma(c), Quinton de Kock(w), Suryakumar Yadav, Ishan Kishan, Hardik Pandya, Kieron Pollard, Krunal Pandya, James Pattinson, Rahul Chahar, Trent Boult, Jasprit Bumrah, Dhawal Kulkarni, Saurabh Tiwary, Aditya Tare, Mitchell McClenaghan, Chris Lynn, Nathan Coulter-Nile, Jayant Yadav, Anmolpreet Singh, Anukul Roy, Mohsin Khan, Sherfane Rutherford, Digvijay Deshmukh, Prince Balwant Rai

Mumbai Indians take on Kolkata Knight Riders on Friday at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi as the action in Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 continues. So far in IPL history, the matches between KKR and MI have been the most one-sided ones and the Rohit Sharma-led outfit would be looking to continue their run against the Knight Riders.

Mumbai Indians take on Kolkata Knight Riders on Friday at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi as the action in Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 continues. So far in IPL history, the matches between KKR and MI have been the most one-sided ones and the Rohit Sharma-led outfit would be looking to continue their run against the Knight Riders. However, KKR would be hoping for a fresh start under the captaincy of Eoin Morgan after Dinesh Karthik on Friday handed over the captaincy duties to the World Cup-winning English captain. In the previous encounter between MI and KKR, Mumbai Indians came victorious. ALSO READ: IPL 2020: Dinesh Karthik steps down from KKR captaincy MI vs KKR - Head-to-head stats: Talking about head-to-head encounters, MI have won a staggering 20 matches of the 26 clashes against KKR with the Kolkata Knight Riders winning just six of the matches. MI boast the maximum winning percentage against KKR (76.92%) and would be eager to continue their domination with two more points on Friday. Rohit Sharma has the most runs when it comes to matches between MI and KKR with 904 runs under his belt and needs 96 runs to complete 1,000 runs against the Knights. Most wickets in KKR vs MI encounters go to Sunil Narine with 22 scalps but with his contentious action, it won’t be a surprise if he misses another match in IPL 2020. ALSO READ: IPL 2020: Jos Buttler to take over as Rajasthan Royals captain? RR COO reacts Given the slowish pitch in Abu Dhabi, a score of 170 is deemed as competitive. MI vs KKR - Squads: Kolkata Knight Riders Squad: Tom Banton, Shubman Gill, Nitish Rana, Eoin Morgan, Dinesh Karthik(w/c), Andre Russell, Rahul Tripathi, Pat Cummins, Kamlesh Nagarkoti, Varun Chakravarthy, Prasidh Krishna, Sunil Narine, Kuldeep Yadav, Sandeep Warrier, Siddhesh Lad, Nikhil Naik, Chris Green, Lockie Ferguson, Rinku Singh, Ali Khan, Shivam Mavi, Manimaran Siddharth Mumbai Indians Squad: Rohit Sharma(c), Quinton de Kock(w), Suryakumar Yadav, Ishan Kishan, Hardik Pandya, Kieron Pollard, Krunal Pandya, James Pattinson, Rahul Chahar, Trent Boult, Jasprit Bumrah, Dhawal Kulkarni, Saurabh Tiwary, Aditya Tare, Mitchell McClenaghan, Chris Lynn, Nathan Coulter-Nile, Jayant Yadav, Anmolpreet Singh, Anukul Roy, Mohsin Khan, Sherfane Rutherford, Digvijay Deshmukh, Prince Balwant Rai

IPL 2020, MI vs KKR Preview: Eoin Morgan-led Kolkata look to end Mumbai domination

Royal Challengers Bangalore made some bizarre decisions during their <a href="https://www.wionews.com/ipl">Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020</a> match against Kings XI Punjab and ended up losing by eight wickets at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium on Thursday. RCB skipper Virat Kohli reacted on the calls made on the field.

RCB made some rare tweaks to their batting line up as they sent Washington Sundar and Shivam Dube ahead of an in-form AB de Villiers in the batting order. While the move backfired as de Villiers was dismissed cheaply, Chris Morris and Isuru Udana, with some lusty blows in the death, made sure RCB touch the 170-run mark in 20 overs.&nbsp;

Kohli, opening up on the strange decisions, said the team management wanted to continue with the left-right combination while adding they were happy with the decisions despite them not coming off.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2020-dinesh-karthik-steps-down-from-kkr-captaincy-eoin-morgan-named-new-skipper-335683">IPL 2020: Dinesh Karthik steps down from KKR captaincy</a>

"It was quite surprising, we thought the game might finish in the 18th. A bit of pressure at the back end can confuse you, anything can happen in this game. Good performance by KXIP, we were not in the game tonight," Virat Kohli said in the post-match presentation ceremony.

"We had a chat, a message from outside about left-right combination and we wanted to go with it because they had two leggies. Sometimes things don't come off. We're pretty happy with the decisions we took, but it didn't come off," Kohli opened up on AB de Villiers batting at No.6.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2020-jos-buttler-to-take-over-as-rajasthan-royals-captain-rr-coo-quashes-rumours-335721" hreflang="en">IPL 2020: Jos Buttler to take over as Rajasthan Royals captain? RR COO reacts</a>

&nbsp;

"Having 170 was a decent score. The idea was to let them [Dube and Sundar] get their eye in. They bowled well. It's not a great ground for bowlers but that's not an excuse.

With the ball, Kohli saved Sundar for Chris Gayle and didn’t hand him the ball in the powerplays as the youngster was taken to cleaners by the ‘Universe Boss’.

"We take pride in our bowling. tonight it didn't come off and we have to accept it and take responsibility. There's always something to learn to go back and understand. There was no conversation with Chahal, to be honest. The only conversation was with the last ball, we wanted him to push it away. Credit to Nicholas," Kohli added.

Kings XI Punjab ended up with an eight-wicket win to register their second win in IPL 2020. 
&nbsp;

Royal Challengers Bangalore made some bizarre decisions during their Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 match against Kings XI Punjab and ended up losing by eight wickets at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium on Thursday.

Royal Challengers Bangalore made some bizarre decisions during their Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 match against Kings XI Punjab and ended up losing by eight wickets at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium on Thursday. RCB skipper Virat Kohli reacted on the calls made on the field. RCB made some rare tweaks to their batting line up as they sent Washington Sundar and Shivam Dube ahead of an in-form AB de Villiers in the batting order. While the move backfired as de Villiers was dismissed cheaply, Chris Morris and Isuru Udana, with some lusty blows in the death, made sure RCB touch the 170-run mark in 20 overs. Kohli, opening up on the strange decisions, said the team management wanted to continue with the left-right combination while adding they were happy with the decisions despite them not coming off. ALSO READ: IPL 2020: Dinesh Karthik steps down from KKR captaincy "It was quite surprising, we thought the game might finish in the 18th. A bit of pressure at the back end can confuse you, anything can happen in this game. Good performance by KXIP, we were not in the game tonight," Virat Kohli said in the post-match presentation ceremony. "We had a chat, a message from outside about left-right combination and we wanted to go with it because they had two leggies. Sometimes things don't come off. We're pretty happy with the decisions we took, but it didn't come off," Kohli opened up on AB de Villiers batting at No.6. ALSO READ: IPL 2020: Jos Buttler to take over as Rajasthan Royals captain? RR COO reacts "Having 170 was a decent score. The idea was to let them [Dube and Sundar] get their eye in. They bowled well. It's not a great ground for bowlers but that's not an excuse. With the ball, Kohli saved Sundar for Chris Gayle and didn’t hand him the ball in the powerplays as the youngster was taken to cleaners by the ‘Universe Boss’. "We take pride in our bowling. tonight it didn't come off and we have to accept it and take responsibility. There's always something to learn to go back and understand. There was no conversation with Chahal, to be honest. The only conversation was with the last ball, we wanted him to push it away. Credit to Nicholas," Kohli added. Kings XI Punjab ended up with an eight-wicket win to register their second win in IPL 2020.

IPL 2020: Virat Kohli reacts to RCB's bizarre decisions during KXIP match

With Rajasthan Royals struggling in the bottom-half of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 points table and skipper Steve Smith struggling heavily with his form, speculations started that RR might drop Smith as the captain of the side for the rest of IPL 2020.

Rajasthan Royals on Twitter posted a couple of photos in praise of swashbuckling English wicketkeeper-batsman Jos Buttler on Friday and many started speculating that he might replace Smith as the captain of RR.

However, Rajasthan Royals’ Chief Operating Officer Jake Lush McCrum dismissed the rumous of Buttler taking over captaincy duties from Smith while even RR took to Twitter to confirm it was nothing short of plain rumour.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2020-dinesh-karthik-steps-down-from-kkr-captaincy-eoin-morgan-named-new-skipper-335683">IPL 2020: Dinesh Karthik steps down from KKR captaincy</a>

When asked about whether Buttler is taking over the captaincy duty for RR, McCrum tweeted: It does not. Twitter having a little too much fun today.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
It does not. Twitter having a little too much fun today <a href="https://t.co/S77lkTgnUx">https://t.co/S77lkTgnUx</a>
— Jake Lush McCrum (@JakeLushMcCrum) <a href="https://twitter.com/JakeLushMcCrum/status/1317035665721352192?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 16, 2020</a></blockquote>
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RR have won three of their eight matches in IPL 2020 so far while being equal on points (6) with the likes of Sunrisers Hyderabad and Chennai Super Kings. RR are lying seventh in the points table due to their worrisome net run-rate but are still in contention for a playoff spot in IPL 2020.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
When admin realises he started a false rumour. <a href="https://t.co/QOHcJD7pNk">https://t.co/QOHcJD7pNk</a> <a href="https://t.co/vXBVcizcNT">pic.twitter.com/vXBVcizcNT</a>
— Rajasthan Royals (@rajasthanroyals) <a href="https://twitter.com/rajasthanroyals/status/1317036219444858880?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 16, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Not only their lackluster start in the tournament but the cold form of captain Smith is coming as a major worry for the RR batting unit.

While Smith got off to a superb start in IPL 2020 with scores of 69 and 50 against Chennai Super Kings and Kings XI Punjab respectively, he has managed to score in double digits just once since then. Smith has scored 3, 5, 6, 24, 5 and 1 in the T20 tournament being held in the UAE after starting with a couple of a half-centuries.

With Rajasthan Royals struggling in the bottom-half of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 points table and skipper Steve Smith struggling heavily with his form, speculations started that RR might drop Smith as the captain of the side for the rest of IPL 2020.

With Rajasthan Royals struggling in the bottom-half of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 points table and skipper Steve Smith struggling heavily with his form, speculations started that RR might drop Smith as the captain of the side for the rest of IPL 2020. Rajasthan Royals on Twitter posted a couple of photos in praise of swashbuckling English wicketkeeper-batsman Jos Buttler on Friday and many started speculating that he might replace Smith as the captain of RR. However, Rajasthan Royals’ Chief Operating Officer Jake Lush McCrum dismissed the rumous of Buttler taking over captaincy duties from Smith while even RR took to Twitter to confirm it was nothing short of plain rumour. ALSO READ: IPL 2020: Dinesh Karthik steps down from KKR captaincy When asked about whether Buttler is taking over the captaincy duty for RR, McCrum tweeted: It does not. Twitter having a little too much fun today. It does not. Twitter having a little too much fun today https://t.co/S77lkTgnUx — Jake Lush McCrum (@JakeLushMcCrum) October 16, 2020 × RR have won three of their eight matches in IPL 2020 so far while being equal on points (6) with the likes of Sunrisers Hyderabad and Chennai Super Kings. RR are lying seventh in the points table due to their worrisome net run-rate but are still in contention for a playoff spot in IPL 2020. When admin realises he started a false rumour. https://t.co/QOHcJD7pNk pic.twitter.com/vXBVcizcNT — Rajasthan Royals (@rajasthanroyals) October 16, 2020 × Not only their lackluster start in the tournament but the cold form of captain Smith is coming as a major worry for the RR batting unit. While Smith got off to a superb start in IPL 2020 with scores of 69 and 50 against Chennai Super Kings and Kings XI Punjab respectively, he has managed to score in double digits just once since then. Smith has scored 3, 5, 6, 24, 5 and 1 in the T20 tournament being held in the UAE after starting with a couple of a half-centuries.

IPL 2020: Jos Buttler to take over as Rajasthan Royals captain? RR COO quashes rumours

Dinesh Karthik on Friday stepped down as the captain of Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) while handing over the captaincy duties to ICC World Cup 2019 World Cup-winning captain Eoin Morgan. Karthik has moved away from captaincy with a view to focus on his batting and contributing more to the team’s cause.&nbsp;

Karthik’s decision to step down from captaincy duties come as a major surprise as KKR have been doing well in the ongoing <a href="https://www.wionews.com/ipl">Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020</a> and are sitting fourth in the points table with four wins in seven matches so far. Morgan will start leading KKR from their match against Mumbai Indians, scheduled for Friday in Abu Dhabi.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2020-virat-kohlis-bhangra-cum-rap-show-during-warm-up-impresses-fans-335646" hreflang="en">IPL 2020: Virat Kohli's bhangra cum rap show during warm-up impresses fans</a>

Venky Mysore, CEO of KKR said “we are fortunate to have leaders such as DK, who has always put the team first. It takes a lot of courage for someone like him to take a decision such as this. While we were surprised by his decision, we are respectful of his wishes. We are also fortunate that Eoin Morgan, the 2019 World Cup-winning captain, who has been the vice captain, is willing to lead the side going forward. DK and Eoin have worked brilliantly together during this tournament and although Eoin takes over as captain, this is effectively a role swap and we expect that this transition will work in a seamless manner”

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2020-kkrs-sunil-narine-sweats-it-out-in-the-nets-after-being-called-for-suspect-action-335477" hreflang="en">IPL: Narine sweats it out in the nets after being called for suspect action</a>

Karthik was heavily criticized after KKR’s couple of defeats in the early phase of the tournament but bounced back strong with some bold decisions against Chennai Super Kings and Kings XI Punjab.

However, him stepping down from the captaincy role could be to focus more on his batting. Besides the only half-century in IPL 2020, Karthik has been pretty lackluster with the willow so far and will be hoping pressure-free cricket can bring the best out of him. 
&nbsp;

Dinesh Karthik on Friday stepped down as the captain of Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) while handing over the captaincy duties to ICC World Cup 2019 World Cup-winning captain Eoin Morgan.

Dinesh Karthik on Friday stepped down as the captain of Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) while handing over the captaincy duties to ICC World Cup 2019 World Cup-winning captain Eoin Morgan. Karthik has moved away from captaincy with a view to focus on his batting and contributing more to the team’s cause. Karthik’s decision to step down from captaincy duties come as a major surprise as KKR have been doing well in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 and are sitting fourth in the points table with four wins in seven matches so far. Morgan will start leading KKR from their match against Mumbai Indians, scheduled for Friday in Abu Dhabi. ALSO READ: IPL 2020: Virat Kohli's bhangra cum rap show during warm-up impresses fans Venky Mysore, CEO of KKR said “we are fortunate to have leaders such as DK, who has always put the team first. It takes a lot of courage for someone like him to take a decision such as this. While we were surprised by his decision, we are respectful of his wishes. We are also fortunate that Eoin Morgan, the 2019 World Cup-winning captain, who has been the vice captain, is willing to lead the side going forward. DK and Eoin have worked brilliantly together during this tournament and although Eoin takes over as captain, this is effectively a role swap and we expect that this transition will work in a seamless manner” ALSO READ: IPL: Narine sweats it out in the nets after being called for suspect action Karthik was heavily criticized after KKR’s couple of defeats in the early phase of the tournament but bounced back strong with some bold decisions against Chennai Super Kings and Kings XI Punjab. However, him stepping down from the captaincy role could be to focus more on his batting. Besides the only half-century in IPL 2020, Karthik has been pretty lackluster with the willow so far and will be hoping pressure-free cricket can bring the best out of him.

IPL 2020: Dinesh Karthik steps down from KKR captaincy, Eoin Morgan named new skipper

Juventus megastar Cristiano Ronaldo may have breached the health rules when he returned to Italy after returning positive for COVID-19 in Portugal, Italy’s sports minister said.

The Portuguese forward flew back to Italy in a private jet on Wednesday and will undergo quarantine at home. Ronaldo tested positive for the dreaded virus on Monday.&nbsp;

Vincenzo Spadafora, the Italian sports minister, was asked if Ronaldo broke health rules by moving from Portugal to Italy despite testing positive for the coronavirus as he replied: “Yes, I think so, if there hadn’t been any specific authorisation from the health authority.”

Whereas Juventus president Andrea Agnelli said that no rules were broken in the process.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/barca-ponder-messi-rest-as-madrid-continue-to-wait-on-hazard-335650" hreflang="en">Barca ponder Messi rest as Madrid continue to wait on Hazard</a>

“You must call the Ministry of Health and the Ministry of the Interior and have them explain what has been violated,” Agnelli said during a news conference.

The Italian giants on Wednesday said that Ronaldo had returned on a medical flight “authorised by the competent health authorities”. 
Ronaldo was forced to sit out of their Nations League match against Sweden on Wednesday after testing positive for COVID-19.&nbsp;

While there are plenty of speculations surrounding Ronaldo’s availability in the UEFA Champions League match against Barcelona which is being hyped as the final showdown between Ronaldo and Lionel Messi, UEFA has clearly stated that the Portuguese star must present a negative COVID-19 test at least seven days before the day of the match.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/enough-fooling-entire-world-cristiano-ronaldos-sister-katia-aveiro-rants-on-instagram-after-he-tests-positive-335432" hreflang="en">'Enough fooling entire world' Cristiano Ronaldo's sister Katia Aveiro rants on Instagram after he tests positive</a>

Recently, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/enough-fooling-entire-world-cristiano-ronaldos-sister-katia-aveiro-rants-on-instagram-after-he-tests-positive-335432">Ronaldo’s sister&nbsp;ranted about the COVID-19</a> as she said: "If Cristiano Ronaldo is the one who has to wake the world up, I have to say that this Portuguese really is an envoy from God. Thank you!

"I believe that, today, thousands of people who have come to believe so much in this pandemic, in the tests and the measures taken will, like me, see it is the biggest fraud I've seen since I was born.

"A phrase that I read today and that I stood up to applaud: 'Enough fooling the entire world'. Someone, open your eyes, please." 
&nbsp;

Juventus megastar Cristiano Ronaldo may have breached the health rules when he returned to Italy after returning positive for COVID-19 in Portugal, Italy’s sports minister said.

Juventus megastar Cristiano Ronaldo may have breached the health rules when he returned to Italy after returning positive for COVID-19 in Portugal, Italy’s sports minister said. The Portuguese forward flew back to Italy in a private jet on Wednesday and will undergo quarantine at home. Ronaldo tested positive for the dreaded virus on Monday. Vincenzo Spadafora, the Italian sports minister, was asked if Ronaldo broke health rules by moving from Portugal to Italy despite testing positive for the coronavirus as he replied: “Yes, I think so, if there hadn’t been any specific authorisation from the health authority.” Whereas Juventus president Andrea Agnelli said that no rules were broken in the process. ALSO READ: Barca ponder Messi rest as Madrid continue to wait on Hazard “You must call the Ministry of Health and the Ministry of the Interior and have them explain what has been violated,” Agnelli said during a news conference. The Italian giants on Wednesday said that Ronaldo had returned on a medical flight “authorised by the competent health authorities”. Ronaldo was forced to sit out of their Nations League match against Sweden on Wednesday after testing positive for COVID-19. While there are plenty of speculations surrounding Ronaldo’s availability in the UEFA Champions League match against Barcelona which is being hyped as the final showdown between Ronaldo and Lionel Messi, UEFA has clearly stated that the Portuguese star must present a negative COVID-19 test at least seven days before the day of the match. ALSO READ: 'Enough fooling entire world' Cristiano Ronaldo's sister Katia Aveiro rants on Instagram after he tests positive Recently, Ronaldo’s sister ranted about the COVID-19 as she said: "If Cristiano Ronaldo is the one who has to wake the world up, I have to say that this Portuguese really is an envoy from God. Thank you! "I believe that, today, thousands of people who have come to believe so much in this pandemic, in the tests and the measures taken will, like me, see it is the biggest fraud I've seen since I was born. "A phrase that I read today and that I stood up to applaud: 'Enough fooling the entire world'. Someone, open your eyes, please."

COVID-19 positive Cristiano Ronaldo may have broken health protocol: Italian sports minister

Chennai Super Kings beat SunRisers Hyderabad by 20 runs in Match 29 of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/ipl">2020 IPL</a>, at Dubai. Shane Watson (42 in 38 balls) and Ambati Rayudu (41 in 34) played cautiously after Sam Curran (31 in 21) cut loose at the top, and some lusty blows from MS Dhoni (21 in 13) and Ravindra Jadeja (25* in 10) helped Chennai reach 167/6 even as Sandeep Sharma returned 4-0-18-2.

In response, Hyderabad lost their way in the middle overs, with Kane Williamson (57 in 39) playing a lone hand. Jadeja backed his cameo with 3-0-21-1 to win the Player of the Match award as Hyderabad, a batsman short, finished on 147/8.

In My11 Circle Cricbuzz Live, Joy Bhattacharjya was all in praise for Jadeja: “If you have a pitch that’s turning, he makes a deliberate effort to turn one really big … The moment you turn it a lot, doubt comes into the batsman’s mind. And then you don’t necessarily have the wicket off the turning ball, you get the wicket out of the uncertainty in the batsman’s mind, about how much it is going to turn.” Jadeja used a similar tactic to bowl Jonny Bairstow.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dhoni-hails-curran-as-a-complete-cricketer-after-key-ipl-win-335148" hreflang="en">Dhoni hails Curran as a 'complete cricketer' after key IPL win</a>

“He’s got finesse and he can swing it as well. He’s just not your random hit-to-cow-corner guy,” said Bhattacharjya of Jadeja’s batting. “Jadeja is what I call a microwave player, he heats up very fast.”

Harsha Bhogle praised Chennai for deploying Shane Watson and Ambati Rayudu against Rashid Khan, for Rashid has not had success against either. Bhattacharjya lauded the promotion of Curran as opener, insisting that the revamped batting order made the Chennai batting line-up look more “competitive”.

IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/ipl-trivia-top-records-of-thala-ms-dhoni-in-the-tournament-328205" hreflang="en">PL trivia: Top records of 'Thala' MS Dhoni in the tournament</a>

This was Hyderabad’s second defeat in a row. Bhogle mentioned that their inexperienced middle-order lacks a finisher, something that can be fixed by bringing in one of three hard-hitting all-rounders – Fabian Allen, Mohammad Nabi, and Jason Holder. However, with David Warner, Jonny Bairstow, Rashid Khan, and Kane Williamson in the side, none of them can get into the side, leaving the management in a fix.

SRH (fifth) and CSK (sixth) both have 6 points from 8 matches, with the former holding a slight edge due on net run rate (+0.009 to -0.39).

Chennai Super Kings beat SunRisers Hyderabad by 20 runs in Match 29 of the 2020 IPL, at Dubai. Shane Watson (42 in 38 balls) and Ambati Rayudu (41 in 34) played cautiously after Sam Curran (31 in 21) cut loose at the top, and some lusty blows from MS Dhoni (21 in 13) and Ravindra Jadeja (25* in 10) helped Chennai reach 167/6 even as Sandeep Sharma returned 4-0-18-2.

Chennai Super Kings beat SunRisers Hyderabad by 20 runs in Match 29 of the 2020 IPL, at Dubai. Shane Watson (42 in 38 balls) and Ambati Rayudu (41 in 34) played cautiously after Sam Curran (31 in 21) cut loose at the top, and some lusty blows from MS Dhoni (21 in 13) and Ravindra Jadeja (25* in 10) helped Chennai reach 167/6 even as Sandeep Sharma returned 4-0-18-2. In response, Hyderabad lost their way in the middle overs, with Kane Williamson (57 in 39) playing a lone hand. Jadeja backed his cameo with 3-0-21-1 to win the Player of the Match award as Hyderabad, a batsman short, finished on 147/8. In My11 Circle Cricbuzz Live, Joy Bhattacharjya was all in praise for Jadeja: “If you have a pitch that’s turning, he makes a deliberate effort to turn one really big … The moment you turn it a lot, doubt comes into the batsman’s mind. And then you don’t necessarily have the wicket off the turning ball, you get the wicket out of the uncertainty in the batsman’s mind, about how much it is going to turn.” Jadeja used a similar tactic to bowl Jonny Bairstow. ALSO READ: Dhoni hails Curran as a 'complete cricketer' after key IPL win “He’s got finesse and he can swing it as well. He’s just not your random hit-to-cow-corner guy,” said Bhattacharjya of Jadeja’s batting. “Jadeja is what I call a microwave player, he heats up very fast.” Harsha Bhogle praised Chennai for deploying Shane Watson and Ambati Rayudu against Rashid Khan, for Rashid has not had success against either. Bhattacharjya lauded the promotion of Curran as opener, insisting that the revamped batting order made the Chennai batting line-up look more “competitive”. IN PICS | PL trivia: Top records of 'Thala' MS Dhoni in the tournament This was Hyderabad’s second defeat in a row. Bhogle mentioned that their inexperienced middle-order lacks a finisher, something that can be fixed by bringing in one of three hard-hitting all-rounders – Fabian Allen, Mohammad Nabi, and Jason Holder. However, with David Warner, Jonny Bairstow, Rashid Khan, and Kane Williamson in the side, none of them can get into the side, leaving the management in a fix. SRH (fifth) and CSK (sixth) both have 6 points from 8 matches, with the former holding a slight edge due on net run rate (+0.009 to -0.39).

Ravindra Jadeja is a microwave player, he heats up very fast: Joy Bhattacharjya

Skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni Tuesday hailed Sam Curran as a "complete cricketer" for Chennai Super Kings after the England all-rounder played a key part in the team's much-needed IPL win.

The 22-year-old Curran hit 31 after opening the batting and then returned figures of 1-18 from his three overs of left-arm pace bowling as Chennai bounced back from two losses to beat Sunrisers Hyderabad by 20 runs in Dubai.

Curran, a left-hand batsman who was brought by Chennai for $742,000, gave the team a brisk start in his 21-ball knock before Shane Watson, who scored 42 coming one down, and Ambati Rayudu (41) guided the team to 167 for six.

Curran then shared the new ball with Deepak Chahar to breakthrough with the big wicket of skipper David Warner, caught and bowled for nine, as Hyderabad managed just 147-8.

"Curran is a complete cricketer for us and you need that seaming allrounder. He strikes the ball nicely, he can bat up the order, he plays spinners well," Dhoni said of his team's youngest member.

"He can give us those 15-45 runs if you need momentum. I feel as the tournament progresses, he'll get even more comfortable with death bowling. That's one of the reasons we kept him away at the death."

Dwayne Bravo bowled the final over of the match and returned figures of 2-25 as Chennai moved level with Hyderabad on six points from eight games in a tough first half of the Twenty20 tournament in the United Arab Emirates.

Curran, younger brother of Tom Curran who plays for Rajasthan Royals, has proved his worth for three-time IPL winners Chennai while batting in the top, middle and lower order.

"In terms of his contribution so far it has exceeded, I think, what we wanted. Probably not in his eyes because he is very competitive," Chennai coach Stephen Fleming told reporters in the post-match virtual chat.

"Every time he has had the challenge he has risen to it. He has been desperate to make a difference and I think we saw a glimpse today of what he can do for us in the future."

Ravindra Jadeja also contributed with an unbeaten 25 off 10 balls and returned to take the key wicket of England's Jonny Bairstow, bowled for 23, with his left-arm spin.

"This was one game as close to perfect as possible. One or two overs we could have been slightly better, but it was a very good game," said Dhoni.

New Zealand's Kane Williamson struck 57 off 39 deliveries but his first half-century of the season went in vain as Hyderabad kept losing wickets.

Skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni Tuesday hailed Sam Curran as a "complete cricketer" for Chennai Super Kings after the England all-rounder played a key part in the team's much-needed IPL win.

Skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni Tuesday hailed Sam Curran as a "complete cricketer" for Chennai Super Kings after the England all-rounder played a key part in the team's much-needed IPL win. The 22-year-old Curran hit 31 after opening the batting and then returned figures of 1-18 from his three overs of left-arm pace bowling as Chennai bounced back from two losses to beat Sunrisers Hyderabad by 20 runs in Dubai. Curran, a left-hand batsman who was brought by Chennai for $742,000, gave the team a brisk start in his 21-ball knock before Shane Watson, who scored 42 coming one down, and Ambati Rayudu (41) guided the team to 167 for six. Curran then shared the new ball with Deepak Chahar to breakthrough with the big wicket of skipper David Warner, caught and bowled for nine, as Hyderabad managed just 147-8. "Curran is a complete cricketer for us and you need that seaming allrounder. He strikes the ball nicely, he can bat up the order, he plays spinners well," Dhoni said of his team's youngest member. "He can give us those 15-45 runs if you need momentum. I feel as the tournament progresses, he'll get even more comfortable with death bowling. That's one of the reasons we kept him away at the death." Dwayne Bravo bowled the final over of the match and returned figures of 2-25 as Chennai moved level with Hyderabad on six points from eight games in a tough first half of the Twenty20 tournament in the United Arab Emirates. Curran, younger brother of Tom Curran who plays for Rajasthan Royals, has proved his worth for three-time IPL winners Chennai while batting in the top, middle and lower order. "In terms of his contribution so far it has exceeded, I think, what we wanted. Probably not in his eyes because he is very competitive," Chennai coach Stephen Fleming told reporters in the post-match virtual chat. "Every time he has had the challenge he has risen to it. He has been desperate to make a difference and I think we saw a glimpse today of what he can do for us in the future." Ravindra Jadeja also contributed with an unbeaten 25 off 10 balls and returned to take the key wicket of England's Jonny Bairstow, bowled for 23, with his left-arm spin. "This was one game as close to perfect as possible. One or two overs we could have been slightly better, but it was a very good game," said Dhoni. New Zealand's Kane Williamson struck 57 off 39 deliveries but his first half-century of the season went in vain as Hyderabad kept losing wickets.

Dhoni hails Curran as a 'complete cricketer' after key IPL win

New proposals backed by Liverpool and Manchester United for wide-ranging reform of English football have been criticised by the UK government, Premier League and fans' groups.

The so-called "Project Big Picture" has been labelled a "power grab" by the Premier League's biggest and wealthiest clubs, taking advantage of the dire financial position of the English Football League (EFL) -- which comprises the three divisions directly beneath the top flight -- amid the coronavirus crisis.

But many in the EFL, including chairman Rick Parry, back the plan as a means of addressing the imbalance in resources between the top and bottom of the football pyramid.

AFP Sport looks at what "Project Big Picture" proposes and who could gain from it:

<h2>Competition reform</h2>

The principal difference on the field would be the reduction of the Premier League from 20 to 18 teams with the overall number of clubs in the top four English divisions shrinking from 92 to 90.

Only two teams would be automatically promoted to and relegated from the Premier League with third-bottom in the top tier joining third, fourth and fifth in the second-tier Championship for the traditional end-of-season play-offs.

The League Cup and season curtain-raiser, the Community Shield, would also be scrapped, providing more space in the calendar for lucrative pre-season tours and potentially more matches in European club competition for the biggest clubs.

<h2>Revenue sharing</h2>

The Premier League would provide an instant £250 million ($325 million) cash injection to the EFL to prevent clubs going bust at a time when they are without match-day revenue due to coronavirus restrictions.

A further £100 million would be provided to the English Football Association, which also has mounting coronavirus costs due to international games behind closed doors, notably to help women's football. &nbsp;

There is also more funding for the lower leagues in the long-term. In future, Premier League and EFL broadcast rights would be sold together and 25 percent distributed down the divisions.

<h2>What's the catch?</h2>

The principal objection to the plans is that the power will be concentrated in the hands of the "big six" - United, Liverpool, Arsenal, Chelsea, Manchester City and Tottenham Hotspur.

At the moment, a majority of 14 from the 20 Premier League clubs is required for any significant decisions to be passed with each club having one vote.

Under the proposals, the "big six" and the other three longest-serving Premier League members - currently Everton, Southampton and West Ham United - would hold the balance of power with only six of those nine needed to vote in major rule changes.

That would include the power to approve or block takeovers of other clubs, for example the Saudi-backed deal for Newcastle United that recently fell through.

Moreover, each club could sell the rights of up to eight live matches a season direct to fans over their own channels. That would be far more lucrative for the bigger clubs with huge worldwide fanbases, but is likely to reduce collective TV deals, where the EFL's 25 percent share comes from.

Parachute payments for clubs relegated from the Premier League would also be abolished.

<h2>Who is backing it?</h2>

Parry, formerly the Liverpool chief executive, has been the most vocal senior figure supporting the plan after months of warning that EFL clubs face a £200 million black hole in their finances with games being held behind closed doors.

Despite being behind the proposals, Liverpool and United are yet to comment publicly. However, the plans have received considerable support from clubs throughout the EFL.

<h2>Who is against it?</h2>

A powerful alliance of the Premier League, government and supporters groups has warned about selling control over the game to a small band of clubs.

The Football Supporters Association described the plans on Tuesday as a "sugar-coated cyanide pill offered up by billionaire owners who do not understand or care about our football culture".

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson said the project was the "type of backroom dealing that undermines trust in football governance", while the Premier League warned some of the plans would have a "damaging impact on the whole game."

<h2>What comes next?</h2>

Even in the unlikely event that a majority of Premier League clubs backed the plans, they would not come into force until 2022/23.

However, with such strong opposition, these proposals are likely to just be the starting point for negotiations on how to balance the interests of the biggest clubs with protecting the football pyramid.

The most pressing need is that for a bailout of the EFL -- The chairman of fourth-tier London club Leyton Orient, Nigel Travis, has claimed some clubs will disappear within six weeks without financial support.

New proposals backed by Liverpool and Manchester United for wide-ranging reform of English football have been criticised by the UK government, Premier League and fans' groups.

New proposals backed by Liverpool and Manchester United for wide-ranging reform of English football have been criticised by the UK government, Premier League and fans' groups. The so-called "Project Big Picture" has been labelled a "power grab" by the Premier League's biggest and wealthiest clubs, taking advantage of the dire financial position of the English Football League (EFL) -- which comprises the three divisions directly beneath the top flight -- amid the coronavirus crisis. But many in the EFL, including chairman Rick Parry, back the plan as a means of addressing the imbalance in resources between the top and bottom of the football pyramid. AFP Sport looks at what "Project Big Picture" proposes and who could gain from it: Competition reform The principal difference on the field would be the reduction of the Premier League from 20 to 18 teams with the overall number of clubs in the top four English divisions shrinking from 92 to 90. Only two teams would be automatically promoted to and relegated from the Premier League with third-bottom in the top tier joining third, fourth and fifth in the second-tier Championship for the traditional end-of-season play-offs. The League Cup and season curtain-raiser, the Community Shield, would also be scrapped, providing more space in the calendar for lucrative pre-season tours and potentially more matches in European club competition for the biggest clubs. Revenue sharing The Premier League would provide an instant £250 million ($325 million) cash injection to the EFL to prevent clubs going bust at a time when they are without match-day revenue due to coronavirus restrictions. A further £100 million would be provided to the English Football Association, which also has mounting coronavirus costs due to international games behind closed doors, notably to help women's football. There is also more funding for the lower leagues in the long-term. In future, Premier League and EFL broadcast rights would be sold together and 25 percent distributed down the divisions. What's the catch? The principal objection to the plans is that the power will be concentrated in the hands of the "big six" - United, Liverpool, Arsenal, Chelsea, Manchester City and Tottenham Hotspur. At the moment, a majority of 14 from the 20 Premier League clubs is required for any significant decisions to be passed with each club having one vote. Under the proposals, the "big six" and the other three longest-serving Premier League members - currently Everton, Southampton and West Ham United - would hold the balance of power with only six of those nine needed to vote in major rule changes. That would include the power to approve or block takeovers of other clubs, for example the Saudi-backed deal for Newcastle United that recently fell through. Moreover, each club could sell the rights of up to eight live matches a season direct to fans over their own channels. That would be far more lucrative for the bigger clubs with huge worldwide fanbases, but is likely to reduce collective TV deals, where the EFL's 25 percent share comes from. Parachute payments for clubs relegated from the Premier League would also be abolished. Who is backing it? Parry, formerly the Liverpool chief executive, has been the most vocal senior figure supporting the plan after months of warning that EFL clubs face a £200 million black hole in their finances with games being held behind closed doors. Despite being behind the proposals, Liverpool and United are yet to comment publicly. However, the plans have received considerable support from clubs throughout the EFL. Who is against it? A powerful alliance of the Premier League, government and supporters groups has warned about selling control over the game to a small band of clubs. The Football Supporters Association described the plans on Tuesday as a "sugar-coated cyanide pill offered up by billionaire owners who do not understand or care about our football culture". British Prime Minister Boris Johnson said the project was the "type of backroom dealing that undermines trust in football governance", while the Premier League warned some of the plans would have a "damaging impact on the whole game." What comes next? Even in the unlikely event that a majority of Premier League clubs backed the plans, they would not come into force until 2022/23. However, with such strong opposition, these proposals are likely to just be the starting point for negotiations on how to balance the interests of the biggest clubs with protecting the football pyramid. The most pressing need is that for a bailout of the EFL -- The chairman of fourth-tier London club Leyton Orient, Nigel Travis, has claimed some clubs will disappear within six weeks without financial support.

What is English football's 'Project Big Picture' and who stands to benefit?

Neymar scored a hat-trick to become the second highest scorer in Brazil's history as the Copa America champions won 4-2 away to 10-man Peru in a World Cup qualifier on Tuesday.

The goals took Neymar to 64 international strikes, two more than Ronaldo but still well behind Pele's record of 77.

Elsewhere, Joaquin Correa scored the winner 11 minutes from time as Argentina labored to a 2-1 victory over Bolivia to maintain their 100% record after two matches.

Peru twice took the lead through Andre Carrillo and a heavily deflected strike from Renato Tapia, but two controversial Neymar penalties, an injury time third and a close range strike from Richarlison maintained the Selecao's winning start to qualifying for Qatar 2022.

Carrillo opened the scoring on six minutes with a dipping volley from 20 yards after latching onto Marquinhos's weak clearance.

Peru Goalkeeper Pedro Gallese then denied Firmino from point blank range after he seemed certain to tap home from Richarlison's cushioned header.

Brazil dominated the ball but Peru's pacey forwards looked dangerous on the counter-attack and visiting goalkeeper Weverton had to be alert to keep out a shot from Christofer Gonzales.

But Neymar sent Gallese the wrong way from the spot after Yoshimar Yotun was penalised for tugging his shirt in the box.

Out of nowhere, Tapia's speculative long-range strike took a wicked deflection off Rodrigo Caio and wrong-footed Weverton on 59 minutes.

The lead lasted only a few minutes before Richarlison touched a Firmino header from a corner over the line to restore parity.

The winner came seven minutes from time as Carlos Zambrano was harshly adjudged to have fouled Neymar.

Worse was still to come for Zambrano as he was sent off minutes later for a stray elbow that caught Richarlison and Neymar drilled home the final nail in Peru's coffin after Gallese spilled a shot from Everton Ribeiro.

<h2>- Farcical equaliser -</h2>

Lionel Scaloni's Argentina earned a second narrow victory in a row following Thursday's 1-0 win over Ecuador.

Marcelo Moreno Martins had given hosts Bolivia a deserved lead but Argentina scored a fortuitous equaliser through Lautaro Martinez.

Bolivia should have been ahead on six minutes when Argentina goalkeeper Franco Armani was caught off his line but Moreno Martins sent his header from an angle onto the roof of the net.

Moreno Martins made amends on 24 minutes as he rose between Argentina's center-backs to power home a header from eight yards after Alejandro Chumacero was allowed to run from halfway into the visitors' box before crossing from the left.

Argentina's equaliser came in comical fashion as Jose Carrasco tried to clear the ball out of his six yard box after cutting out Martinez's cross, but he shanked the ball off the forward's shin and past goalkeeper Carlos Lampe.

Lionel Messi, who had an otherwise quiet game, and Martinez then combined to tee up Correa to thrash home the winner.

<h2>- Ecuador work of art -</h2>

Ecuador totally dominated Uruguay in a 4-2 victory in Quito.

They took the lead on 15 minutes as Moises Caicedo flicked home a header from an Angel Mena cross.

Both sides had a goal ruled out following a VAR review before Michael Estrada doubled the advantage on the stroke of half-time, rifling home from inside the box after a mistake by veteran Uruguay center-back Diego Godin.

Uruguay were denied again by VAR before Ecuador went straight up the other end where Estrada cracked home Valencia's backheel from 20 yards.&nbsp;

Ecuador's final goal was a work of art as Alan Franco's reverse pass bemused Uruguay's defence and Gonzalo Plata rolled his foot over the ball to commit both sliding defender Ronald Araujo and goalkeeper Martin Campana before stroking the ball into the far corner.

Luis Suarez scored his record-extending 61st and 62nd goals for Uruguay with a pair of late penalties that were no more than a consolation.

Radamel Falcao scored an injury time equaliser as Colombia salvaged a point in a 2-2 draw in Chile.

Jefferson Lerma gave Colombia an early lead but Chile turned the match in Quito around by half-time with strikes from Arturo Vidal and Alexis Sanchez.

Gaston Gimenez scored a late winner before goalkeeper Anthony Silva saved a penalty from Yangel Herrera as Paraguay won 1-0 in Venezuela.

Neymar scored a hat-trick to become the second highest scorer in Brazil's history as the Copa America champions won 4-2 away to 10-man Peru in a World Cup qualifier on Tuesday.

Neymar scored a hat-trick to become the second highest scorer in Brazil's history as the Copa America champions won 4-2 away to 10-man Peru in a World Cup qualifier on Tuesday. The goals took Neymar to 64 international strikes, two more than Ronaldo but still well behind Pele's record of 77. Elsewhere, Joaquin Correa scored the winner 11 minutes from time as Argentina labored to a 2-1 victory over Bolivia to maintain their 100% record after two matches. Peru twice took the lead through Andre Carrillo and a heavily deflected strike from Renato Tapia, but two controversial Neymar penalties, an injury time third and a close range strike from Richarlison maintained the Selecao's winning start to qualifying for Qatar 2022. Carrillo opened the scoring on six minutes with a dipping volley from 20 yards after latching onto Marquinhos's weak clearance. Peru Goalkeeper Pedro Gallese then denied Firmino from point blank range after he seemed certain to tap home from Richarlison's cushioned header. Brazil dominated the ball but Peru's pacey forwards looked dangerous on the counter-attack and visiting goalkeeper Weverton had to be alert to keep out a shot from Christofer Gonzales. But Neymar sent Gallese the wrong way from the spot after Yoshimar Yotun was penalised for tugging his shirt in the box. Out of nowhere, Tapia's speculative long-range strike took a wicked deflection off Rodrigo Caio and wrong-footed Weverton on 59 minutes. The lead lasted only a few minutes before Richarlison touched a Firmino header from a corner over the line to restore parity. The winner came seven minutes from time as Carlos Zambrano was harshly adjudged to have fouled Neymar. Worse was still to come for Zambrano as he was sent off minutes later for a stray elbow that caught Richarlison and Neymar drilled home the final nail in Peru's coffin after Gallese spilled a shot from Everton Ribeiro. - Farcical equaliser - Lionel Scaloni's Argentina earned a second narrow victory in a row following Thursday's 1-0 win over Ecuador. Marcelo Moreno Martins had given hosts Bolivia a deserved lead but Argentina scored a fortuitous equaliser through Lautaro Martinez. Bolivia should have been ahead on six minutes when Argentina goalkeeper Franco Armani was caught off his line but Moreno Martins sent his header from an angle onto the roof of the net. Moreno Martins made amends on 24 minutes as he rose between Argentina's center-backs to power home a header from eight yards after Alejandro Chumacero was allowed to run from halfway into the visitors' box before crossing from the left. Argentina's equaliser came in comical fashion as Jose Carrasco tried to clear the ball out of his six yard box after cutting out Martinez's cross, but he shanked the ball off the forward's shin and past goalkeeper Carlos Lampe. Lionel Messi, who had an otherwise quiet game, and Martinez then combined to tee up Correa to thrash home the winner. - Ecuador work of art - Ecuador totally dominated Uruguay in a 4-2 victory in Quito. They took the lead on 15 minutes as Moises Caicedo flicked home a header from an Angel Mena cross. Both sides had a goal ruled out following a VAR review before Michael Estrada doubled the advantage on the stroke of half-time, rifling home from inside the box after a mistake by veteran Uruguay center-back Diego Godin. Uruguay were denied again by VAR before Ecuador went straight up the other end where Estrada cracked home Valencia's backheel from 20 yards. Ecuador's final goal was a work of art as Alan Franco's reverse pass bemused Uruguay's defence and Gonzalo Plata rolled his foot over the ball to commit both sliding defender Ronald Araujo and goalkeeper Martin Campana before stroking the ball into the far corner. Luis Suarez scored his record-extending 61st and 62nd goals for Uruguay with a pair of late penalties that were no more than a consolation. Radamel Falcao scored an injury time equaliser as Colombia salvaged a point in a 2-2 draw in Chile. Jefferson Lerma gave Colombia an early lead but Chile turned the match in Quito around by half-time with strikes from Arturo Vidal and Alexis Sanchez. Gaston Gimenez scored a late winner before goalkeeper Anthony Silva saved a penalty from Yangel Herrera as Paraguay won 1-0 in Venezuela.

Neymar hat-trick fires Brazil past Peru, Argentina labor

Author

Zee News Rajasthan

Editor

Subhayan Chakraborty

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