Rafael Nadal is set to lock horns with Diego Schwartzman in the first semi-final of French Open 2020 with the match promising to be a thrilling contest.

The match between Nadal and Schwartzman will be played at the Philippe Chatrier Court on October 9 (Friday) as the Spanish ace eyes his 19th Grand Slam title and a record 13th trophy at the Roland Garros.

Nadal and Schwartzman have played against each other 10 times. But it is Nadal who have dominated the head-to-head encounters with nine wins under his belt as compared to Argentine’s one.

However, a major shock could be on cards given Schwartzman defeated Nadal at the Rome Masters in September and hardcore Nadal fans would be hoping that the Spaniard gets his revenge on Friday.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/french-open-djokovic-vs-tsitsipas-preview-and-where-to-watch-it-online-333930" hreflang="en">French Open, Djokovic vs Tsitsipas: Preview and where to watch it online</a>

<h2>When and where will the French Open 2020 Rafael Nadal vs Diego Schwartzman men’s singles semi-final match be played?&nbsp;</h2>

Rafael Nadal vs Diego Schwartzman semi-final match in men’s singles of French Open 2020 will be played at the Philippe-Chatrier court in Roland Garros at a tentative start time of 06:20 pm IST.&nbsp;

<h2>Where to watch the live telecast of French Open 2020 Rafael Nadal vs Diego Schwartzman men’s singles semi-final match?&nbsp;</h2>

The French Open 2020 match between Rafael Nadal and Diego Schwartzman will be live on Star Sports 2/HD, Star Sports Select 2/HD.

<h2>Where to watch live streaming of French Open 2020 match between Rafael Nadal and Diego Schwartzman men’s singles semi-final?</h2>

Fans can tune into Disney+ Hotstar to watch Rafael Nadal vs Diego Schwartzman match in French Open 2020.

Rafael Nadal is set to lock horns with Diego Schwartzman in the first semi-final of French Open 2020 with the match promising to be a thrilling contest. The match between Nadal and Schwartzman will be played at the Philippe Chatrier Court on October 9 (Friday) as the Spanish ace eyes his 19th Grand Slam title and a record 13th trophy at the Roland Garros.

Rafael Nadal is set to lock horns with Diego Schwartzman in the first semi-final of French Open 2020 with the match promising to be a thrilling contest. The match between Nadal and Schwartzman will be played at the Philippe Chatrier Court on October 9 (Friday) as the Spanish ace eyes his 19th Grand Slam title and a record 13th trophy at the Roland Garros. Nadal and Schwartzman have played against each other 10 times. But it is Nadal who have dominated the head-to-head encounters with nine wins under his belt as compared to Argentine’s one. However, a major shock could be on cards given Schwartzman defeated Nadal at the Rome Masters in September and hardcore Nadal fans would be hoping that the Spaniard gets his revenge on Friday. ALSO READ: French Open, Djokovic vs Tsitsipas: Preview and where to watch it online When and where will the French Open 2020 Rafael Nadal vs Diego Schwartzman men’s singles semi-final match be played? Rafael Nadal vs Diego Schwartzman semi-final match in men’s singles of French Open 2020 will be played at the Philippe-Chatrier court in Roland Garros at a tentative start time of 06:20 pm IST. Where to watch the live telecast of French Open 2020 Rafael Nadal vs Diego Schwartzman men’s singles semi-final match? The French Open 2020 match between Rafael Nadal and Diego Schwartzman will be live on Star Sports 2/HD, Star Sports Select 2/HD. Where to watch live streaming of French Open 2020 match between Rafael Nadal and Diego Schwartzman men’s singles semi-final? Fans can tune into Disney+ Hotstar to watch Rafael Nadal vs Diego Schwartzman match in French Open 2020.

Rafael Nadal vs Diego Schwartzman, French Open 2020: Preview, Live streaming and telecast details

The home series against England and Indian domestic season 2020-21 will be on the top of the agenda when the members of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) will assemble for the Apex Council meeting, which will be held virtually on October 17.

Apart from the home series against England and postponed Indian domestic season, the schedule of the upcoming tour of Australia will also be discussed in the BCCI Apex Council meeting.

The BCCI president Sourav Ganguly had earlier said that the board will do its best to host the full-fledged home series against England in India amid the COVID-19 concerns. The domestic season, including Ranji Trophy and other tournaments, are also a concern and the Indian board will look to find a possible solution in the BCCI ACM.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2020-mid-season-transfer-window-players-list-eligibility-criteria-rules-and-more-333959" hreflang="en">IPL 2020 mid-season transfer window: Players list, eligibility criteria, rules and more</a>

The situation surrounding COVID-19 pandemic forced the BCCI to shift the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 in the UAE and there were reports that the series against England could be moved to the UAE.

Meanwhile, England are scheduled to tour India in 2021 in January-March to play 5 Tests, 3 ODIs and as many T20Is.

However, the BCCI are still looking to stage the series in India and create bio-secure bubbles in three venues – Wankhede Stadium, DY Patil Stadium and Cricket Club of India. The Motera Stadium in Ahmedabad is also been looked into.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/when-warner-and-bairstow-have-a-night-out-they-are-very-difficult-to-stop-michael-vaughan-333948" hreflang="en">When Warner and Bairstow have a night out, they are very difficult to stop: Michael Vaughan</a>

The BCCI Apex Council meeting is also set to touch upon domestic tournaments such as Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy and Vijay Hazare Trophy given that the tournaments are bread and butter for many cricketers in India.

The home series against England and Indian domestic season 2020-21 will be on the top of the agenda when the members of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) will assemble for the Apex Council meeting, which will be held virtually on October 17.

The home series against England and Indian domestic season 2020-21 will be on the top of the agenda when the members of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) will assemble for the Apex Council meeting, which will be held virtually on October 17. Apart from the home series against England and postponed Indian domestic season, the schedule of the upcoming tour of Australia will also be discussed in the BCCI Apex Council meeting. The BCCI president Sourav Ganguly had earlier said that the board will do its best to host the full-fledged home series against England in India amid the COVID-19 concerns. The domestic season, including Ranji Trophy and other tournaments, are also a concern and the Indian board will look to find a possible solution in the BCCI ACM. ALSO READ: IPL 2020 mid-season transfer window: Players list, eligibility criteria, rules and more The situation surrounding COVID-19 pandemic forced the BCCI to shift the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 in the UAE and there were reports that the series against England could be moved to the UAE. Meanwhile, England are scheduled to tour India in 2021 in January-March to play 5 Tests, 3 ODIs and as many T20Is. However, the BCCI are still looking to stage the series in India and create bio-secure bubbles in three venues – Wankhede Stadium, DY Patil Stadium and Cricket Club of India. The Motera Stadium in Ahmedabad is also been looked into. ALSO READ: When Warner and Bairstow have a night out, they are very difficult to stop: Michael Vaughan The BCCI Apex Council meeting is also set to touch upon domestic tournaments such as Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy and Vijay Hazare Trophy given that the tournaments are bread and butter for many cricketers in India.

BCCI Apex Council meeting on October 17: Domestic season, home series against England on agenda

Hyderabad cruised to a 69-run win against Punjab in Match 22 of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/ipl">2020 IPL</a>, at Dubai. Hyderabad got 201/6 largely due to a 160-run opening stand off 91 balls, between David Warner (52 in 40 balls) and Jonny Bairstow (97 in 55). Punjab were then bowled out for a mere 132, Rashid Khan leading the way with 4-1-12-3, the high point being a double-wicket maiden in the 15th over.

In the My11 Circle Cricbuzz Live, Michael Vaughan praised the Hyderabad openers: “If they come out and play the way they did today, the Warner-Bairstow combination … When they have a night out, they are very difficult to stop. They run between the wickets hard, they are powerful, [they are a] left-hand-right-hand combination.”

“He is a class act,” added Vaughan, making special mention of Bairstow, who was named Player of the Match. “If you look at white-ball cricket of the last five years, you have to put him in the top bracket because of the consistent levels at which he has performed … He is a powerful player. You can see the way he can strike the ball. He is so busy, so difficult to keep quiet because he runs between the wickets so hard.”

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/leaders-without-title-play-pivotal-role-in-direction-that-team-travels-eoin-morgan-333924" hreflang="en">Leaders without title play pivotal role in direction that team travels: Eoin Morgan</a>

Vaughan criticised Punjab’s strategies, pointing out that Mujeeb Ur Rahman is not good enough to bat at No. 7. “There are too many brains, too many chefs in the kitchen. It’s a simple game that has almost been overcomplicated … But the basics of the game haven’t changed. I don’t care what format it is – you don’t send Mujeeb to deal [with] Rashid [Khan]”.

“To be brutally honest, they [Punjab] have got some good individuals that, on their day, can surprise anyone,” added Vaughan, citing the example of Nicholas Pooran, who helped himself to the fastest fifty of the season, off 17 balls, and finished on 77 from 37 balls. However, Vaughan concluded that “is just not a good team,” contrasting them with more balanced sides like Delhi, Mumbai, and Kolkata.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2020-scott-styris-names-the-best-skipper-he-came-across-333887" hreflang="en">IPL 2020: Scott Styris names the best skipper he came across</a>

“Anil Kumble, as we know him, is very systems-driven,” Bhogle expressed his surprise at Punjab’s tendency to frequently chop and change members from the playing XI. “Anil has been there, done that, he has been in the Mumbai Indians, he has been a magnificent captain for India, so that’s what surprises me a little bit.”

Thanks to the win, Hyderabad are now at third place, while Punjab are still languishing at the bottom.

Hyderabad cruised to a 69-run win against Punjab in Match 22 of the 2020 IPL, at Dubai. Hyderabad got 201/6 largely due to a 160-run opening stand off 91 balls, between David Warner (52 in 40 balls) and Jonny Bairstow (97 in 55).

Hyderabad cruised to a 69-run win against Punjab in Match 22 of the 2020 IPL, at Dubai. Hyderabad got 201/6 largely due to a 160-run opening stand off 91 balls, between David Warner (52 in 40 balls) and Jonny Bairstow (97 in 55). Punjab were then bowled out for a mere 132, Rashid Khan leading the way with 4-1-12-3, the high point being a double-wicket maiden in the 15th over. In the My11 Circle Cricbuzz Live, Michael Vaughan praised the Hyderabad openers: “If they come out and play the way they did today, the Warner-Bairstow combination … When they have a night out, they are very difficult to stop. They run between the wickets hard, they are powerful, [they are a] left-hand-right-hand combination.” “He is a class act,” added Vaughan, making special mention of Bairstow, who was named Player of the Match. “If you look at white-ball cricket of the last five years, you have to put him in the top bracket because of the consistent levels at which he has performed … He is a powerful player. You can see the way he can strike the ball. He is so busy, so difficult to keep quiet because he runs between the wickets so hard.” ALSO READ: Leaders without title play pivotal role in direction that team travels: Eoin Morgan Vaughan criticised Punjab’s strategies, pointing out that Mujeeb Ur Rahman is not good enough to bat at No. 7. “There are too many brains, too many chefs in the kitchen. It’s a simple game that has almost been overcomplicated … But the basics of the game haven’t changed. I don’t care what format it is – you don’t send Mujeeb to deal [with] Rashid [Khan]”. “To be brutally honest, they [Punjab] have got some good individuals that, on their day, can surprise anyone,” added Vaughan, citing the example of Nicholas Pooran, who helped himself to the fastest fifty of the season, off 17 balls, and finished on 77 from 37 balls. However, Vaughan concluded that “is just not a good team,” contrasting them with more balanced sides like Delhi, Mumbai, and Kolkata. ALSO READ: IPL 2020: Scott Styris names the best skipper he came across “Anil Kumble, as we know him, is very systems-driven,” Bhogle expressed his surprise at Punjab’s tendency to frequently chop and change members from the playing XI. “Anil has been there, done that, he has been in the Mumbai Indians, he has been a magnificent captain for India, so that’s what surprises me a little bit.” Thanks to the win, Hyderabad are now at third place, while Punjab are still languishing at the bottom.

When Warner and Bairstow have a night out, they are very difficult to stop: Michael Vaughan

LaLiga, Spain's top division football league on Friday announced the launch of the LaLiga Club series programme, to their football school curriculum in India in association with India On Track (IOT). Students of LaLiga Football Schools will get an opportunity to understand the technical and institutional session with experts from LaLiga clubs such as Real Betis, Sevilla FC, and Celta de Vigo over a span of six weeks starting October 9, 2020.

These virtual sessions will feature informational topics like the history of the club, legacy, club rivalries, along with focusing on developmental aspects such as the youth academy system, scouting processes, player evaluation and much more. Additionally, the students will also get an opportunity to participate in technical topics such as match analysis, strength and conditioning sessions, and masterclasses with the academy coaches. LaLiga Club series will be available for all the LaLiga Football Schools students in the country across the age group of 5 to 18 years.

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Real Betis will host the first session on 09th followed by Celta de Vigo on 16th October and Sevilla FC on 23rd October.

LaLiga’s historic grassroots football development programme in India always expects to bring enthusiasm for the sport amongst the students with new and exciting projects. As the current situation was, the on-ground events are at a halt LaLiga football Schools and LaLiga clubs are taking the initiative to engage and introduce new activities to build a greater connection with the football fans in India.

Jose Antonio Cachaza, Managing Director, LaLiga India said, “India has been our top priority market, and the response we have received for our initiatives is overwhelming. We have a holistic approach aimed at achieving overall sporting excellence through various training and development programmes. With LaLiga Club Series, we look to familiarise young fans across India with the personalities of different football clubs, and enhance their knowledge of the ecosystem of the sport.”

Saúl Vazquez, Technical Head, LaLiga Football Schools India said, “LaLiga Club Series will be conducted online and via the partner Clubs, the students will learn about the techniques and methodologies specific to these clubs. All this will help them better understand the Clubs' style of play and operations and also provide them with greater exposure to different kinds of football.”

Earlier this year the LaLiga Football Schools launched LaLiga Football Schools at home along with India On Track (IOT), which helped inculcate a culture of sports amongst the youth. Now LLFS has added this weekly online programme, conducted by the representatives from each associated club to its offerings. These representatives will communicate digitally on various technical and institutional topics with students once a week for 60 min every Friday.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

LaLiga, Spain's top division football league on Friday announced the launch of the LaLiga Club series programme, to their football school curriculum in India in association with India On Track (IOT).

LaLiga, Spain's top division football league on Friday announced the launch of the LaLiga Club series programme, to their football school curriculum in India in association with India On Track (IOT). Students of LaLiga Football Schools will get an opportunity to understand the technical and institutional session with experts from LaLiga clubs such as Real Betis, Sevilla FC, and Celta de Vigo over a span of six weeks starting October 9, 2020. These virtual sessions will feature informational topics like the history of the club, legacy, club rivalries, along with focusing on developmental aspects such as the youth academy system, scouting processes, player evaluation and much more. Additionally, the students will also get an opportunity to participate in technical topics such as match analysis, strength and conditioning sessions, and masterclasses with the academy coaches. LaLiga Club series will be available for all the LaLiga Football Schools students in the country across the age group of 5 to 18 years. ALSO READ: Messi fires Argentina to WC qualifying win over Ecuador Real Betis will host the first session on 09th followed by Celta de Vigo on 16th October and Sevilla FC on 23rd October. LaLiga’s historic grassroots football development programme in India always expects to bring enthusiasm for the sport amongst the students with new and exciting projects. As the current situation was, the on-ground events are at a halt LaLiga football Schools and LaLiga clubs are taking the initiative to engage and introduce new activities to build a greater connection with the football fans in India. Jose Antonio Cachaza, Managing Director, LaLiga India said, “India has been our top priority market, and the response we have received for our initiatives is overwhelming. We have a holistic approach aimed at achieving overall sporting excellence through various training and development programmes. With LaLiga Club Series, we look to familiarise young fans across India with the personalities of different football clubs, and enhance their knowledge of the ecosystem of the sport.” Saúl Vazquez, Technical Head, LaLiga Football Schools India said, “LaLiga Club Series will be conducted online and via the partner Clubs, the students will learn about the techniques and methodologies specific to these clubs. All this will help them better understand the Clubs' style of play and operations and also provide them with greater exposure to different kinds of football.” Earlier this year the LaLiga Football Schools launched LaLiga Football Schools at home along with India On Track (IOT), which helped inculcate a culture of sports amongst the youth. Now LLFS has added this weekly online programme, conducted by the representatives from each associated club to its offerings. These representatives will communicate digitally on various technical and institutional topics with students once a week for 60 min every Friday.

LaLiga Football School launches LaLiga Club series for young aspirants across India

England's World Cup-winning captain Eoin Morgan believes that "leaders without title" play an equally important part as the designated one if a team intends to travel in the right direction in its pursuit of greatness.

Morgan is one of the key figures in the Kolkata Knight Riders set-up under Dinesh Karthik's captaincy and he feels it has worked out well in the first three weeks of Indian Premier League.

So as a distinguished international captain, does he volunteer giving inputs to his skipper or wait for Karthik to approach him as a sounding board?

"I think it has worked really well so far. I think DK and Brendon McCullum lead extremely well within the team," Morgan told PTI in an exclusive interview.

"Within aspect of the rest of the players, we have a number of senior leaders that take on roles that don't have a title.

"And within the team, that plays a pivotal part because when other seniors players, apart from captain and coach and vice-captain, lead or take on directions or decisions, it gives absolute clarity for the rest of the team." 
KKR is currently placed fourth on the points table with six points for their three wins.

"Embodying that moving forward is so powerful that it creates intangible things that great teams talk about. Feeling the moment, the sacrifices that you make, it's all worthwhile. So far we have made it work," Morgan put forth his view point eloquently.

For an Irishman who has established himself as a respected captain while leading one of the most ethnically diverse cricket teams to global glory, Morgan enjoys that multi-cultural fabric which an IPL dressing room brings with players from different background, different languages, converging to create lasting memories.

"I feel sport is always transient but the language you speak when you are playing that sport tends to stay with you.

"It's fascinating to watch guys talk about cricket in different languages in the change room and people who don't know that language tend to understand and get the gist of what they are trying to achieve."

Like many others, the 34-year-old Morgan also agreed that evolution of franchise cricket has brought players from different walks of life closer in a dressing room environment which promotes friendship.

"...Evolution of franchise cricket has made coming into a change room that has different culture with potentially a different language or two or three different languages a lot more easier to gel."

He loves the fact that the English cricket fraternity, which looked at IPL as an "after-thought" seven-eight years ago, has come to accept that it now has players who are the most sought-after in this format.

"I think compared to previous seasons, certainly (I) not having played in IPL for a number of seasons, difference between an England player coming in now and an England player coming seven-eight years ago is even more.

"Because now some of our players who play in that England shirt are sought after players. Jos Buttler, Ben Stokes and Jofra Archer, these guys have genuine chances of becoming MVPs every year.

"That's the level of confidence that now an English player brings as opposed to before, when it was almost an after-thought because of the conflict within somewhere and English players being deterred to come in many ways.

"It's a completely different aspect, one that we love coming to town," 'Captain' Morgan said, setting the record straight. 
With 2240 runs in 94 T20 Internationals, Morgan has been one of the fine end-game players in shorter formats, a skill that he consciously developed to fit into flexible batting orders.

"I think, over the years, that is something that I have always aspired to do and throughout your career, probably through young age from mid 20s, particularly in international cricket where it is very difficult, standard is always high and there is always a counter to everything that you are trying to do.

"The more you play, the less bad or common mistakes you are going to make. Experience is worth its weight in gold and I have made most of my experience in probably the last two and half to three years," he said.

Asked about his batting role in KKR line-up, Morgan said that it's "flexible", depending on conditions and opposition.

"I think middle-order is quite flexible at the moment, depending on what team we play and type of attack we come up against.

"Different batters are suited to different bowlers and DK and coach are very good at reading what's the right way to move forward in that regard. We have lot of options which are flexible."

England's World Cup-winning captain Eoin Morgan believes that "leaders without title" play an equally important part as the designated one if a team intends to travel in the right direction in its pursuit of greatness.

England's World Cup-winning captain Eoin Morgan believes that "leaders without title" play an equally important part as the designated one if a team intends to travel in the right direction in its pursuit of greatness. Morgan is one of the key figures in the Kolkata Knight Riders set-up under Dinesh Karthik's captaincy and he feels it has worked out well in the first three weeks of Indian Premier League. So as a distinguished international captain, does he volunteer giving inputs to his skipper or wait for Karthik to approach him as a sounding board? "I think it has worked really well so far. I think DK and Brendon McCullum lead extremely well within the team," Morgan told PTI in an exclusive interview. "Within aspect of the rest of the players, we have a number of senior leaders that take on roles that don't have a title. "And within the team, that plays a pivotal part because when other seniors players, apart from captain and coach and vice-captain, lead or take on directions or decisions, it gives absolute clarity for the rest of the team." KKR is currently placed fourth on the points table with six points for their three wins. "Embodying that moving forward is so powerful that it creates intangible things that great teams talk about. Feeling the moment, the sacrifices that you make, it's all worthwhile. So far we have made it work," Morgan put forth his view point eloquently. For an Irishman who has established himself as a respected captain while leading one of the most ethnically diverse cricket teams to global glory, Morgan enjoys that multi-cultural fabric which an IPL dressing room brings with players from different background, different languages, converging to create lasting memories. "I feel sport is always transient but the language you speak when you are playing that sport tends to stay with you. "It's fascinating to watch guys talk about cricket in different languages in the change room and people who don't know that language tend to understand and get the gist of what they are trying to achieve." Like many others, the 34-year-old Morgan also agreed that evolution of franchise cricket has brought players from different walks of life closer in a dressing room environment which promotes friendship. "...Evolution of franchise cricket has made coming into a change room that has different culture with potentially a different language or two or three different languages a lot more easier to gel." He loves the fact that the English cricket fraternity, which looked at IPL as an "after-thought" seven-eight years ago, has come to accept that it now has players who are the most sought-after in this format. "I think compared to previous seasons, certainly (I) not having played in IPL for a number of seasons, difference between an England player coming in now and an England player coming seven-eight years ago is even more. "Because now some of our players who play in that England shirt are sought after players. Jos Buttler, Ben Stokes and Jofra Archer, these guys have genuine chances of becoming MVPs every year. "That's the level of confidence that now an English player brings as opposed to before, when it was almost an after-thought because of the conflict within somewhere and English players being deterred to come in many ways. "It's a completely different aspect, one that we love coming to town," 'Captain' Morgan said, setting the record straight. With 2240 runs in 94 T20 Internationals, Morgan has been one of the fine end-game players in shorter formats, a skill that he consciously developed to fit into flexible batting orders. "I think, over the years, that is something that I have always aspired to do and throughout your career, probably through young age from mid 20s, particularly in international cricket where it is very difficult, standard is always high and there is always a counter to everything that you are trying to do. "The more you play, the less bad or common mistakes you are going to make. Experience is worth its weight in gold and I have made most of my experience in probably the last two and half to three years," he said. Asked about his batting role in KKR line-up, Morgan said that it's "flexible", depending on conditions and opposition. "I think middle-order is quite flexible at the moment, depending on what team we play and type of attack we come up against. "Different batters are suited to different bowlers and DK and coach are very good at reading what's the right way to move forward in that regard. We have lot of options which are flexible."

Leaders without title play pivotal role in direction that team travels: Eoin Morgan

Novak Djokovic and Rafael Nadal, with 36 Grand Slam titles between them, are both just two wins away from creating more tennis history at Roland Garros but standing in the way in Friday's semi-finals are Stefanos Tsitsipas and Diego Schwartzman.

Tsitsipas is the first Greek player to reach the last four in Paris while the diminutive Argentine has put sport in perspective this week with his moving story of how his great-grandfather survived the Holocaust.

&nbsp;

<h2>Novak Djokovic (SRB x1) v Stefanos Tsitsipas (GRE x5)</h2>

Head-to-head: Djokovic leads 3-2

-- Djokovic is chasing a second Roland Garros title and 18th Grand Slam to become the first man in half a century to win all four majors twice. It's such a rare achievement that only Don Budge and Rod Laver have managed it in the history of the sport.

The world number one has four titles in 2020, carved out from 36 wins and just one loss - his now infamous default at the US Open.

However, is the pressure beginning to tell? He dropped his first set of the tournament in his win over Pablo Carreno Busta in the quarter-finals and required treatment on his neck and shoulders.&nbsp;

"I had some neck and shoulder issues. I don't really want to get too much into it. I'm feeling okay," said the 33-year-old who was champion in Paris in 2016.

Djokovic is bidding to make the final for the fifth time and a 27th at the Slams.

Tsitsipas, 22 and playing in his second semi-final at the majors having also reached the last four at the 2019 Australian Open, has got stronger as the tournament has progressed.

After dropping the first two sets of his opener against Jaume Munar, he has swept the next 15.

Tsitsipas is bidding to become the youngest man to reach the Roland Garros final since 2008, when Nadal won the title and youngest to reach a Grand Slam championship match since the 2009 US Open, when Juan Martin del Potro won the title, 10 days short of his 21st birthday.

The Greek has only met Djokovic once on clay, a straight sets loss in the 2019 Madrid final.

"An opponent is an opponent. Doesn't matter if he is injured or not," said Tsitsipas of Djokovic.

&nbsp;

<h2>Paths to the semi-finals (x denotes seeded player)</h2>

Djokovic

1st rd: bt Mikael Ymer (SWE) 6-0, 6-2, 6-3

2nd rd: bt Ricardas Berankis (LTU) 6-1, 6-2, 6-2

3rd rd: bt Daniel Galan (COL) 6-0, 6-3, 6-2

4th rd: bt Karen Khachanov (RUS x15) 6-4, 6-3, 6-3

QF: &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;bt Pablo Carreno Busta (ESP x17) 4-6, 6-2, 6-3, 6-4

Tsitsipas

1st rd: bt Jaume Munar (ESP) 4-6, 2-6, 6-1, 6-4, 6-4

2nd rd: bt Pablo Cuevas (URU) 6-1, 6-4, 6-2

3rd rd: bt Aljaz Bedene (SLO) 6-1, 6-2, 3-1 - retired

4th rd: bt Grigor Dimitrov (BUL x18) 6-3, 7-6 (11/9), 6-2

QF: &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;bt Andrey Rublev (RUS x13) 7-5, 6-2, 6-3

&nbsp;

<h2>Diego Schwartzman (ARG x12) v Rafael Nadal (ESP x2)</h2>

Head-to-head: Nadal leads 9-1

-- Nadal, the 12-time champion, arrived in Paris virtually writing off his chances of equalling Roger Federer's all-time record of 20 Grand Slam titles.

However, the 34-year-old stands on the brink of a 13th Roland Garros final without dropping a set and having spent three and a half hours fewer than Schwartzman in getting to the semi-finals.

He remains cautious over his chances at a tournament being played in the cold and chill of autumn rather than its traditional May-June slot and after finishing his quarter-final against Jannik Sinner at 01:30 on Wednesday morning, he said it was "dangerous for the body with these very heavy conditions".

Nadal's late night on Tuesday was mostly caused by Schwartzman needing more than five hours to defeat US Open champion and third seed Dominic Thiem in five sets to reach his maiden semi-final at the majors.

By contrast, Nadal is in his 34th.

However, Schwartzman will be buoyed by defeating Nadal for the first time in 10 attempts on clay in Rome on the eve of Roland Garros.

Affectionately known as "El Peque" ("shorty"), 28-year-old Schwartzman is a mere 5ft 6in (1.68m) and the smallest player in the world's top 50.

"I was perfect today. I think I'm going to be perfect in semi-final," said Schwartzman, having won his first Grand Slam quarter-final after three previous failures.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

<h2>Paths to the semi-finals (x denotes seeded player)</h2>

Schwartzman

1st rd: bt Miomir Kecmanovic (SRB) 6-0, 6-1, 6-3

2nd rd: bt Lorenzo Giustino (ITA) 6-1, 7-5, 6-0

3rd rd: bt Norbert Gombos (SVK) 7-6 (7/3), 6-3, 6-3

4th rd: bt Lorenzo Sonego (ITA) 6-1, 6-3, 6-4

QF: &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;bt Dominic Thiem (AUT x3) 7-6 (7/1), 5-7, 6-7 (6/8), 7-6 (7/5), 6-2

&nbsp;

Nadal

1st rd: bt Egor Gerasimov (BLR) 6-4, 6-4, 6-2

2nd rd: bt Mackenzie McDonald (USA) 6-1, 6-0, 6-3

3rd rd: bt Stefano Travaglia (ITA) 6-1, 6-4, 6-0

4th rd: bt Sebastian Korda (USA) 6-1, 6-1, 6-2

QF: &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;bt Jannik Sinner (ITA) 7-6 (7/4), 6-4, 6-1

Novak Djokovic and Rafael Nadal, with 36 Grand Slam titles between them, are both just two wins away from creating more tennis history at Roland Garros but standing in the way in Friday's semi-finals are Stefanos Tsitsipas and Diego Schwartzman.

Novak Djokovic and Rafael Nadal, with 36 Grand Slam titles between them, are both just two wins away from creating more tennis history at Roland Garros but standing in the way in Friday's semi-finals are Stefanos Tsitsipas and Diego Schwartzman. Tsitsipas is the first Greek player to reach the last four in Paris while the diminutive Argentine has put sport in perspective this week with his moving story of how his great-grandfather survived the Holocaust. Novak Djokovic (SRB x1) v Stefanos Tsitsipas (GRE x5) Head-to-head: Djokovic leads 3-2 -- Djokovic is chasing a second Roland Garros title and 18th Grand Slam to become the first man in half a century to win all four majors twice. It's such a rare achievement that only Don Budge and Rod Laver have managed it in the history of the sport. The world number one has four titles in 2020, carved out from 36 wins and just one loss - his now infamous default at the US Open. However, is the pressure beginning to tell? He dropped his first set of the tournament in his win over Pablo Carreno Busta in the quarter-finals and required treatment on his neck and shoulders. "I had some neck and shoulder issues. I don't really want to get too much into it. I'm feeling okay," said the 33-year-old who was champion in Paris in 2016. Djokovic is bidding to make the final for the fifth time and a 27th at the Slams. Tsitsipas, 22 and playing in his second semi-final at the majors having also reached the last four at the 2019 Australian Open, has got stronger as the tournament has progressed. After dropping the first two sets of his opener against Jaume Munar, he has swept the next 15. Tsitsipas is bidding to become the youngest man to reach the Roland Garros final since 2008, when Nadal won the title and youngest to reach a Grand Slam championship match since the 2009 US Open, when Juan Martin del Potro won the title, 10 days short of his 21st birthday. The Greek has only met Djokovic once on clay, a straight sets loss in the 2019 Madrid final. "An opponent is an opponent. Doesn't matter if he is injured or not," said Tsitsipas of Djokovic. Paths to the semi-finals (x denotes seeded player) Djokovic 1st rd: bt Mikael Ymer (SWE) 6-0, 6-2, 6-3 2nd rd: bt Ricardas Berankis (LTU) 6-1, 6-2, 6-2 3rd rd: bt Daniel Galan (COL) 6-0, 6-3, 6-2 4th rd: bt Karen Khachanov (RUS x15) 6-4, 6-3, 6-3 QF: bt Pablo Carreno Busta (ESP x17) 4-6, 6-2, 6-3, 6-4 Tsitsipas 1st rd: bt Jaume Munar (ESP) 4-6, 2-6, 6-1, 6-4, 6-4 2nd rd: bt Pablo Cuevas (URU) 6-1, 6-4, 6-2 3rd rd: bt Aljaz Bedene (SLO) 6-1, 6-2, 3-1 - retired 4th rd: bt Grigor Dimitrov (BUL x18) 6-3, 7-6 (11/9), 6-2 QF: bt Andrey Rublev (RUS x13) 7-5, 6-2, 6-3 Diego Schwartzman (ARG x12) v Rafael Nadal (ESP x2) Head-to-head: Nadal leads 9-1 -- Nadal, the 12-time champion, arrived in Paris virtually writing off his chances of equalling Roger Federer's all-time record of 20 Grand Slam titles. However, the 34-year-old stands on the brink of a 13th Roland Garros final without dropping a set and having spent three and a half hours fewer than Schwartzman in getting to the semi-finals. He remains cautious over his chances at a tournament being played in the cold and chill of autumn rather than its traditional May-June slot and after finishing his quarter-final against Jannik Sinner at 01:30 on Wednesday morning, he said it was "dangerous for the body with these very heavy conditions". Nadal's late night on Tuesday was mostly caused by Schwartzman needing more than five hours to defeat US Open champion and third seed Dominic Thiem in five sets to reach his maiden semi-final at the majors. By contrast, Nadal is in his 34th. However, Schwartzman will be buoyed by defeating Nadal for the first time in 10 attempts on clay in Rome on the eve of Roland Garros. Affectionately known as "El Peque" ("shorty"), 28-year-old Schwartzman is a mere 5ft 6in (1.68m) and the smallest player in the world's top 50. "I was perfect today. I think I'm going to be perfect in semi-final," said Schwartzman, having won his first Grand Slam quarter-final after three previous failures. Paths to the semi-finals (x denotes seeded player) Schwartzman 1st rd: bt Miomir Kecmanovic (SRB) 6-0, 6-1, 6-3 2nd rd: bt Lorenzo Giustino (ITA) 6-1, 7-5, 6-0 3rd rd: bt Norbert Gombos (SVK) 7-6 (7/3), 6-3, 6-3 4th rd: bt Lorenzo Sonego (ITA) 6-1, 6-3, 6-4 QF: bt Dominic Thiem (AUT x3) 7-6 (7/1), 5-7, 6-7 (6/8), 7-6 (7/5), 6-2 Nadal 1st rd: bt Egor Gerasimov (BLR) 6-4, 6-4, 6-2 2nd rd: bt Mackenzie McDonald (USA) 6-1, 6-0, 6-3 3rd rd: bt Stefano Travaglia (ITA) 6-1, 6-4, 6-0 4th rd: bt Sebastian Korda (USA) 6-1, 6-1, 6-2 QF: bt Jannik Sinner (ITA) 7-6 (7/4), 6-4, 6-1

Djokovic, Nadal face new-look Roland Garros road blocks

Lionel Messi put his Barcelona troubles behind him to fire Argentina to an opening 1-0 victory over Ecuador in World Cup qualifying on Thursday.

The 33-year-old great has been in open conflict with his club but it had no detrimental effect on his form as his 13th minute penalty was the difference in a tight encounter.

The six-time Ballon d'Or winner unsuccessfully tried to force his way out of the Catalan giants in the close season but he seemed much happier in the light blue and white jersey of his country.

And Argentina needed him to be on top form in a bid to avoid slipping up at home to Ecuador for the second successive time in an opening World Cup qualifier having lost 2-0 to the same opponents four years ago.

In the surreal atmosphere of an empty Bombonera -- the iconic stadium in Buenos Aires that is usually bouncing from the passion of fervent fans was left barren by coronavirus restrictions -- Argentina never looked in danger of another shock defeat.

The hosts predictably dominated possession but struggled to break down an organized and physical Ecuador outfit that proved a different proposition to the one dispatched 6-1 in a friendly a year ago.

The breakthrough came after a reckless challenge by Pervis Estupinan sent Lucas Ocampo sprawling in the box, with Messi stepping up to lash home his 71st international goal.

Ocampos was presented with a glorious chance to double the lead early in the second half but goalkeeper Alexander Dominguez dived full length to keep out his low shot from eight yards.

Rodrigo De Paul fired narrowly wide for the hosts with the last kick of the match.

In Montevideo, Luis Suarez scored a record extending 60th international goal for Uruguay before substitute Maxi Gomez bagged an injury time winner against Chile.

Atletico Madrid forward Suarez opened the scoring from the penalty spot on 39 minutes after Sebastian Vegas was harshly penalized for handball.

Inter Milan's Alexis Sanchez equalised with a low shot on 54 minutes but Gomez had the last word with a stunning half-volley from 20 yards to complete the 2-1 win.

It was honors even between Paraguay and Peru in Asuncion as Angel Romero for the hosts and Andre Carrillo both scored a brace.

Lionel Messi put his Barcelona troubles behind him to fire Argentina to an opening 1-0 victory over Ecuador in World Cup qualifying on Thursday. The 33-year-old great has been in open conflict with his club but it had no detrimental effect on his form as his 13th minute penalty was the difference in a tight encounter.

Lionel Messi put his Barcelona troubles behind him to fire Argentina to an opening 1-0 victory over Ecuador in World Cup qualifying on Thursday. The 33-year-old great has been in open conflict with his club but it had no detrimental effect on his form as his 13th minute penalty was the difference in a tight encounter. The six-time Ballon d'Or winner unsuccessfully tried to force his way out of the Catalan giants in the close season but he seemed much happier in the light blue and white jersey of his country. And Argentina needed him to be on top form in a bid to avoid slipping up at home to Ecuador for the second successive time in an opening World Cup qualifier having lost 2-0 to the same opponents four years ago. In the surreal atmosphere of an empty Bombonera -- the iconic stadium in Buenos Aires that is usually bouncing from the passion of fervent fans was left barren by coronavirus restrictions -- Argentina never looked in danger of another shock defeat. The hosts predictably dominated possession but struggled to break down an organized and physical Ecuador outfit that proved a different proposition to the one dispatched 6-1 in a friendly a year ago. The breakthrough came after a reckless challenge by Pervis Estupinan sent Lucas Ocampo sprawling in the box, with Messi stepping up to lash home his 71st international goal. Ocampos was presented with a glorious chance to double the lead early in the second half but goalkeeper Alexander Dominguez dived full length to keep out his low shot from eight yards. Rodrigo De Paul fired narrowly wide for the hosts with the last kick of the match. In Montevideo, Luis Suarez scored a record extending 60th international goal for Uruguay before substitute Maxi Gomez bagged an injury time winner against Chile. Atletico Madrid forward Suarez opened the scoring from the penalty spot on 39 minutes after Sebastian Vegas was harshly penalized for handball. Inter Milan's Alexis Sanchez equalised with a low shot on 54 minutes but Gomez had the last word with a stunning half-volley from 20 yards to complete the 2-1 win. It was honors even between Paraguay and Peru in Asuncion as Angel Romero for the hosts and Andre Carrillo both scored a brace.

Messi fires Argentina to WC qualifying win over Ecuador

Sofia Kenin defeated Petra Kvitova 6-4, 7-5 to reach the French Open final on Thursday and will attempt to capture a second Grand Slam of the year following her Australian Open triumph.

Fourth seed Kenin will meet 19-year-old Iga Swiatek of Poland in Saturday's title decider after denying two-time Wimbledon champion Kvitova in her bid for a third major.

Swiatek became the first Polish woman in 81 years to reach the Roland Garros final as she demolished Argentine qualifier Nadia Podoroska 6-2, 6-1.

"I knew I had to be at my best. I am super happy and proud of myself," said Kenin.

The American faltered when serving for the match at 5-4 but broke Kvitova in the following game before closing out the victory over the Czech seventh seed.

Kenin, 21, will try to become the first woman to win two Slams in the same season since Angelique Kerber claimed the Australian and US Open titles in 2016.

"I have won in Australia and had really tough matches this week so that gives me confidence," said Kenin.

"I am going to enjoy this moment and then start to prepare for the final tomorrow."

Before this season, Kenin had never gone as far as the quarter-finals on clay. She lost her only match on the surface this year prior to Roland Garros, 6-0, 6-0 to Victoria Azarenka in Rome.&nbsp;

Kenin, who was taken to three sets in four of her five matches leading up to the semi-finals here, surged 4-1 ahead in the first set against Kvitova with a double break.

The Czech immediately clawed one back and created another opening to level on serve, but Kenin held steady and wrapped up the set when Kvitova smacked a backhand long.

Kenin again struck with a break in game five of the second set, fending off four break points in the ensuing game to keep Kvitova at arm's length.

Her frustration was clear as she blew her first chance to secure victory, but the tenacious Kenin earned a second opportunity and sealed her spot in the final with a gritty service hold.

The championship match will be the first at the majors to feature two players aged 21 or under since Maria Sharapova beat fellow 20-year-old Ana Ivanovic at the 2008 Australian Open.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

<h2>- Great Polish hope -</h2>

&nbsp;

The 54th-ranked Swiatek has yet to drop a set at the tournament, conceding just 23 games through six matches.

The last woman to capture the French Open title without losing a set was Justine Henin in 2007.

"It seems unreal," said Swiatek. "I never thought at the start I would play so good here but I always knew that if I was going to be in the final of a Grand Slam it would be at the French Open."

"It's amazing for me," she added. "It's a dream come true."

Swiatek has matched the run of compatriot Jadwiga Jedrzejowska who finished runner-up at Roland Garros in 1939.&nbsp;

She is only the second Polish woman to reach a Grand Slam final in the Open era after Agnieszka Radwanska at Wimbledon in 2012.

Swiatek becomes the seventh unseeded women's finalist at Roland Garros. Of the previous six, only Jelena Ostapenko in 2017 went on to lift the trophy.

"Basically I wanted to play this match as if it was the first round. I didn't want to think I was in the semi-finals because it would stress me," said Swiatek.

She has not faced Kenin at tour level but defeated her in straight sets in the girls' singles at Roland Garros in 2016.

"I will need to be on a different level, the higher level, even though I'm winning easily right now," added Swiatek.

"Really I have no expectations. I don't care if I'm going to lose or win. I'm going to just play my best tennis."

World number 131 Podoroska was the lowest-ranked semi-finalist in Paris in the modern era, and the first women's qualifier to reach the last four of the French Open. &nbsp;

She will rise to a career a best of 48th after the tournament, having arrived without a single Grand Slam main draw win to her name.

"Of course my ranking is going to change, and the tournaments that I'm going to play. But not my life," said Podoroska.

"I'm going to be the same person. I'm going to try to improve my game, like I've been doing the past few years."

Sofia Kenin defeated Petra Kvitova 6-4, 7-5 to reach the French Open final on Thursday and will attempt to capture a second Grand Slam of the year following her Australian Open triumph.

Sofia Kenin defeated Petra Kvitova 6-4, 7-5 to reach the French Open final on Thursday and will attempt to capture a second Grand Slam of the year following her Australian Open triumph. Fourth seed Kenin will meet 19-year-old Iga Swiatek of Poland in Saturday's title decider after denying two-time Wimbledon champion Kvitova in her bid for a third major. Swiatek became the first Polish woman in 81 years to reach the Roland Garros final as she demolished Argentine qualifier Nadia Podoroska 6-2, 6-1. "I knew I had to be at my best. I am super happy and proud of myself," said Kenin. The American faltered when serving for the match at 5-4 but broke Kvitova in the following game before closing out the victory over the Czech seventh seed. Kenin, 21, will try to become the first woman to win two Slams in the same season since Angelique Kerber claimed the Australian and US Open titles in 2016. "I have won in Australia and had really tough matches this week so that gives me confidence," said Kenin. "I am going to enjoy this moment and then start to prepare for the final tomorrow." Before this season, Kenin had never gone as far as the quarter-finals on clay. She lost her only match on the surface this year prior to Roland Garros, 6-0, 6-0 to Victoria Azarenka in Rome. Kenin, who was taken to three sets in four of her five matches leading up to the semi-finals here, surged 4-1 ahead in the first set against Kvitova with a double break. The Czech immediately clawed one back and created another opening to level on serve, but Kenin held steady and wrapped up the set when Kvitova smacked a backhand long. Kenin again struck with a break in game five of the second set, fending off four break points in the ensuing game to keep Kvitova at arm's length. Her frustration was clear as she blew her first chance to secure victory, but the tenacious Kenin earned a second opportunity and sealed her spot in the final with a gritty service hold. The championship match will be the first at the majors to feature two players aged 21 or under since Maria Sharapova beat fellow 20-year-old Ana Ivanovic at the 2008 Australian Open. - Great Polish hope - The 54th-ranked Swiatek has yet to drop a set at the tournament, conceding just 23 games through six matches. The last woman to capture the French Open title without losing a set was Justine Henin in 2007. "It seems unreal," said Swiatek. "I never thought at the start I would play so good here but I always knew that if I was going to be in the final of a Grand Slam it would be at the French Open." "It's amazing for me," she added. "It's a dream come true." Swiatek has matched the run of compatriot Jadwiga Jedrzejowska who finished runner-up at Roland Garros in 1939. She is only the second Polish woman to reach a Grand Slam final in the Open era after Agnieszka Radwanska at Wimbledon in 2012. Swiatek becomes the seventh unseeded women's finalist at Roland Garros. Of the previous six, only Jelena Ostapenko in 2017 went on to lift the trophy. "Basically I wanted to play this match as if it was the first round. I didn't want to think I was in the semi-finals because it would stress me," said Swiatek. She has not faced Kenin at tour level but defeated her in straight sets in the girls' singles at Roland Garros in 2016. "I will need to be on a different level, the higher level, even though I'm winning easily right now," added Swiatek. "Really I have no expectations. I don't care if I'm going to lose or win. I'm going to just play my best tennis." World number 131 Podoroska was the lowest-ranked semi-finalist in Paris in the modern era, and the first women's qualifier to reach the last four of the French Open. She will rise to a career a best of 48th after the tournament, having arrived without a single Grand Slam main draw win to her name. "Of course my ranking is going to change, and the tournaments that I'm going to play. But not my life," said Podoroska. "I'm going to be the same person. I'm going to try to improve my game, like I've been doing the past few years."

Kenin downs Kvitova to set up French Open final with teen Swiatek

Sunrisers Hyderabad on Thursday defeated Kings XI Punjab by 69 runs at the Sheikh Abu Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi as SRH registered their third win in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/ipl">Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020</a>. The misery for Kings XI Punjab continued as they suffered a crushing defeat, their fifth in six matches so far in the T20 tournament.&nbsp;

Having opted to bat first, Sunrisers Hyderabad were off to a sensational start as openers David Warner and Jonny Bairstow stitched a 160-run partnership. While Warner scored 52 off 40, Bairstow smashed 97 off 55 deliveries to give SRH a dream start.

However, things became shaky for SRH as they lost Abdul Samad (8), Manish Pandey (1) and Priyam Garg (0) before Kane Williamson (20* off 10) and Abhishek Sharma (12 off 6) hit a few lusty blows to drag the team to 201-run mark in 20 overs.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/from-watching-ms-dhoni-from-chepauk-stands-to-dismissing-him-in-ipl-2020-varun-chakravarthys-surreal-moment-333512" hreflang="en">From watching MS Dhoni from Chepauk stands to dismissing him in IPL 2020: Varun Chakravarthy's surreal moment</a>

Young KXIP bowlers Ravi Bishnoi and Arshdeep Singh stood tall against SRH batsmen and helped Kings XI Punjab in arresting the run-flow during the crucial middle overs.&nbsp;

Chasing 202, Kings XI Punjab lost Mayank Agarwal for 9 after a mix-up with KL Rahul. Young Simran Singh also failed to go big and was sent packing for 11. Rahul followed the suit soon as he was dismissed for 11 off 16.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2020-we-let-it-slip-stephen-fleming-hits-out-at-csks-batting-performance-against-kkr-333461" hreflang="en">IPL 2020: 'We let it slip' - Stephen Fleming hits out at CSK's batting performance against KKR</a>

However, amid another failure by Glenn Maxwell (7 off 12), Nicholas Pooran smashed SRH bowlers to bring up his half-century in just 17 balls but the West Indies batter failed to find a solid partner to help him in the run chase. Pooran fell to Rashid Khan after a blistering 77 off 37 as SRH won the match by 69 runs.

SRH next face Rajasthan Royals in Dubai on Sunday while KXIP play Royal Challengers Bangalore in Sharjah on Thursday. 
&nbsp;

Sunrisers Hyderabad on Thursday defeated Kings XI Punjab by 69 runs at the Sheikh Abu Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi as SRH registered their third win in Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020.

Sunrisers Hyderabad on Thursday defeated Kings XI Punjab by 69 runs at the Sheikh Abu Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi as SRH registered their third win in Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020. The misery for Kings XI Punjab continued as they suffered a crushing defeat, their fifth in six matches so far in the T20 tournament. Having opted to bat first, Sunrisers Hyderabad were off to a sensational start as openers David Warner and Jonny Bairstow stitched a 160-run partnership. While Warner scored 52 off 40, Bairstow smashed 97 off 55 deliveries to give SRH a dream start. However, things became shaky for SRH as they lost Abdul Samad (8), Manish Pandey (1) and Priyam Garg (0) before Kane Williamson (20* off 10) and Abhishek Sharma (12 off 6) hit a few lusty blows to drag the team to 201-run mark in 20 overs. ALSO READ: From watching MS Dhoni from Chepauk stands to dismissing him in IPL 2020: Varun Chakravarthy's surreal moment Young KXIP bowlers Ravi Bishnoi and Arshdeep Singh stood tall against SRH batsmen and helped Kings XI Punjab in arresting the run-flow during the crucial middle overs. Chasing 202, Kings XI Punjab lost Mayank Agarwal for 9 after a mix-up with KL Rahul. Young Simran Singh also failed to go big and was sent packing for 11. Rahul followed the suit soon as he was dismissed for 11 off 16. ALSO READ: IPL 2020: 'We let it slip' - Stephen Fleming hits out at CSK's batting performance against KKR However, amid another failure by Glenn Maxwell (7 off 12), Nicholas Pooran smashed SRH bowlers to bring up his half-century in just 17 balls but the West Indies batter failed to find a solid partner to help him in the run chase. Pooran fell to Rashid Khan after a blistering 77 off 37 as SRH won the match by 69 runs. SRH next face Rajasthan Royals in Dubai on Sunday while KXIP play Royal Challengers Bangalore in Sharjah on Thursday.

IPL 2020: Sunrisers Hyderabad bag huge win as Kings XI Punjab fail again

Teenager Iga Swiatek on Thursday became the first Polish woman in 81 years to qualify to the final of French Open as the youngster dominated the Argentina’s Nadia Podoroska 6-2, 6-1.

Interestingly, the 19-year-old starlet is yet to drop a set in the ongoing French Open 2020 and will now take on two-time Wimbledon champion Petra Kvitova or Australian Open winner Sofia Kenin for the coveted trophy on Saturday.

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Are you not entertained? 😁<a href="https://twitter.com/iga_swiatek?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@iga_swiatek</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RolandGarros?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RolandGarros</a> <a href="https://t.co/iecjfnfdXp">pic.twitter.com/iecjfnfdXp</a>
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Swiatek, who is ranked 56, has also equalised the run of Jadwiga Jedrzejowska who finished runner-up at 1939 edition of Roland Garros. She also became the second Polish woman to reach a Grand Slam summit clash in the Open era after Agnieszka Radwanska at Wimbledon in 2012.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/every-time-a-match-gets-complicated-carreno-busta-accuses-djokovic-of-faking-injury-333522" hreflang="en">'Every time a match gets complicated...' - Carreno Busta accuses Djokovic of faking injury</a>

Swiatek further became the seventh unseeded women’s finalist at Roland Garros and notably, of the previous six, only Jelena Ostapenko lifted the coveted trophy in 2017.

<h2>Iga Swiatek so far in Roland Garros 2020:</h2>

<ul>
	<li>6-1, 6-2 (Vondrousova)</li>
	<li>6-1, 6-4 (Hsieh)</li>
	<li>6-3, 6-2 (Bouchard)</li>
	<li>6-1, 6-2 (Halep)</li>
	<li>6-3, 6-1 (Trevisan)</li>
	<li>6-2, 6-1 (Podoroska) 
	&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

Teenager Iga Swiatek on Thursday became the first Polish woman in 81 years to qualify to the final of French Open as the youngster dominated the Argentina’s Nadia Podoroska 6-2, 6-1.

Teenager Iga Swiatek on Thursday became the first Polish woman in 81 years to qualify to the final of French Open as the youngster dominated the Argentina’s Nadia Podoroska 6-2, 6-1. Interestingly, the 19-year-old starlet is yet to drop a set in the ongoing French Open 2020 and will now take on two-time Wimbledon champion Petra Kvitova or Australian Open winner Sofia Kenin for the coveted trophy on Saturday. Are you not entertained? 😁@iga_swiatek #RolandGarros pic.twitter.com/iecjfnfdXp — Roland-Garros (@rolandgarros) October 8, 2020 × Swiatek, who is ranked 56, has also equalised the run of Jadwiga Jedrzejowska who finished runner-up at 1939 edition of Roland Garros. She also became the second Polish woman to reach a Grand Slam summit clash in the Open era after Agnieszka Radwanska at Wimbledon in 2012. ALSO READ: 'Every time a match gets complicated...' - Carreno Busta accuses Djokovic of faking injury Swiatek further became the seventh unseeded women’s finalist at Roland Garros and notably, of the previous six, only Jelena Ostapenko lifted the coveted trophy in 2017. Iga Swiatek so far in Roland Garros 2020: 6-1, 6-2 (Vondrousova) 6-1, 6-4 (Hsieh) 6-3, 6-2 (Bouchard) 6-1, 6-2 (Halep) 6-3, 6-1 (Trevisan) 6-2, 6-1 (Podoroska)

Iga Swiatek first Polish woman to qualify to French Open final in 81 years

Spanish tennis star Pablo Carreno Busta on Wednesday accused Novak Djokovic of poor sportsmanship during their Roland Garros quarter-final on Wednesday as he felt the world number one didn’t have any genuine health concerns despite battling injury problems.

Djokovic, one of the favourites for the French Open, had his neck taped during the match on Court Philippe Chatrier with restricted movement during the opening set against the world number 18. The Serb further asked his trainer on court to resolve some issues with his upper left arm.

However, the Serbian recovered well and qualified for the semi-finals with a 4-6, 6-2, 6-3, 6-4 win and later added that he had to deal with some physical issues during the early part of his encounter against Busta.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/im-an-adult-now-tsitsipas-chasing-something-spectacular-in-paris-333441" hreflang="en">'I'm an adult now': Tsitsipas chasing 'something spectacular' in Paris</a>

“Each time he is in trouble he usually does it, that means to say that he was in trouble, that he wasn’t comfortable and that I was playing at a high level and was causing him to doubt himself,” Carreno Busta told reporters in Spanish.

“Every time a match gets complicated he asks for medical assistance. He has been doing this for a long time. I already knew that. I knew it would happen at the U.S. Open, I knew it would happen here and I know it will keep on happening.

“I don’t know if it’s something chronic in his shoulder or just mental, but he didn’t put me off.”

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/second-seeded-rafael-nadal-into-14th-roland-garros-quarter-final-332502" hreflang="en">Second seeded Rafael Nadal into 14th Roland Garros quarter-final</a>

Djokovic also banged his racket against his thigh in frustration following the opening set, the first he lost at this year’s claycourt Grand Slam.

“I don’t know, maybe it’s the pressure or something that he needs to do it. But he continues playing normal, no? I don’t know if he’s (in) pain really or he has mental (issues). Ask him,” Carreno Busta said in English. 
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Spanish tennis star Pablo Carreno Busta on Wednesday accused Novak Djokovic of poor sportsmanship during their Roland Garros quarter-final on Wednesday as he felt the world number one didn’t have any genuine health concerns despite battling injury problems.

Spanish tennis star Pablo Carreno Busta on Wednesday accused Novak Djokovic of poor sportsmanship during their Roland Garros quarter-final on Wednesday as he felt the world number one didn’t have any genuine health concerns despite battling injury problems. Djokovic, one of the favourites for the French Open, had his neck taped during the match on Court Philippe Chatrier with restricted movement during the opening set against the world number 18. The Serb further asked his trainer on court to resolve some issues with his upper left arm. However, the Serbian recovered well and qualified for the semi-finals with a 4-6, 6-2, 6-3, 6-4 win and later added that he had to deal with some physical issues during the early part of his encounter against Busta. ALSO READ: 'I'm an adult now': Tsitsipas chasing 'something spectacular' in Paris “Each time he is in trouble he usually does it, that means to say that he was in trouble, that he wasn’t comfortable and that I was playing at a high level and was causing him to doubt himself,” Carreno Busta told reporters in Spanish. “Every time a match gets complicated he asks for medical assistance. He has been doing this for a long time. I already knew that. I knew it would happen at the U.S. Open, I knew it would happen here and I know it will keep on happening. “I don’t know if it’s something chronic in his shoulder or just mental, but he didn’t put me off.” ALSO READ: Second seeded Rafael Nadal into 14th Roland Garros quarter-final Djokovic also banged his racket against his thigh in frustration following the opening set, the first he lost at this year’s claycourt Grand Slam. “I don’t know, maybe it’s the pressure or something that he needs to do it. But he continues playing normal, no? I don’t know if he’s (in) pain really or he has mental (issues). Ask him,” Carreno Busta said in English.

'Every time a match gets complicated...' - Carreno Busta accuses Djokovic of faking injury

Kolkata Knight Riders plotted a stunning comeback against Chennai Super Kings to win the match by 10 runs in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/ipl">Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020</a>. KKR skipper Dinesh Karthik saved the likes of Sunil Narine and Varun Chakravarthy for the latter half of the chase, a tactic which proved to be a masterclass on a slowish pitch and longer boundaries.&nbsp;

While Narine bagged the wicket of half-centurion Shane Watson, Chakravarthy got the priced wicket of MS Dhoni, whom the mystery spinner had been watching from the Chepauk Stadium stands for many years. Dhoni missed the flight of Chakravarthy’s leg-cutter as the ball went on to disturb the stumps.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2020-we-let-it-slip-stephen-fleming-hits-out-at-csks-batting-performance-against-kkr-333461" hreflang="en">IPL 2020: 'We let it slip' - Stephen Fleming hits out at CSK's batting performance against KKR</a>

Varun asked the former India captain Dhoni for a photograph after the match and the latter obliged. Varun said, “I was feeling the pressure when Mahi Bhai was at the crease because three years back I used to go to Chepauk and I used to watch the matches just because of Dhoni. Bowling to him was a surreal moment for me, the pitch was really flat against CSK.

“Mahi bhai was going really well, I just thought that if I can land the ball on a good length, I might take his wicket, thankfully I was able to execute it really well. After the match, I took a picture with Dhoni sir as well,” Chakravarthy told Rahul Tripathi in a video posted on iplt20.com.

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ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2020-chennai-snatched-defeat-from-the-jaws-of-victory-says-simon-doull-333445" hreflang="en">IPL 2020: Chennai snatched defeat from the jaws of victory, says Simon Doull</a>

Chennai Super Kings have now lost four of their six matches in IPL 2020 so far and would hope to string consecutive wins in the tournament now or it could be a case of too little too late for the Dhoni-led Super Kings. Whereas Kolkata Knight Riders have won three of their five matches and are at the third spot in the points table. 
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Kolkata Knight Riders plotted a stunning comeback against Chennai Super Kings to win the match by 10 runs in Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020. KKR skipper Dinesh Karthik saved the likes of Sunil Narine and Varun Chakravarthy for the latter half of the chase, a tactic which proved to be a masterclass on a slowish pitch and longer boundaries.

Kolkata Knight Riders plotted a stunning comeback against Chennai Super Kings to win the match by 10 runs in Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020. KKR skipper Dinesh Karthik saved the likes of Sunil Narine and Varun Chakravarthy for the latter half of the chase, a tactic which proved to be a masterclass on a slowish pitch and longer boundaries. While Narine bagged the wicket of half-centurion Shane Watson, Chakravarthy got the priced wicket of MS Dhoni, whom the mystery spinner had been watching from the Chepauk Stadium stands for many years. Dhoni missed the flight of Chakravarthy’s leg-cutter as the ball went on to disturb the stumps. ALSO READ: IPL 2020: 'We let it slip' - Stephen Fleming hits out at CSK's batting performance against KKR Varun asked the former India captain Dhoni for a photograph after the match and the latter obliged. Varun said, “I was feeling the pressure when Mahi Bhai was at the crease because three years back I used to go to Chepauk and I used to watch the matches just because of Dhoni. Bowling to him was a surreal moment for me, the pitch was really flat against CSK. “Mahi bhai was going really well, I just thought that if I can land the ball on a good length, I might take his wicket, thankfully I was able to execute it really well. After the match, I took a picture with Dhoni sir as well,” Chakravarthy told Rahul Tripathi in a video posted on iplt20.com. × ALSO READ: IPL 2020: Chennai snatched defeat from the jaws of victory, says Simon Doull Chennai Super Kings have now lost four of their six matches in IPL 2020 so far and would hope to string consecutive wins in the tournament now or it could be a case of too little too late for the Dhoni-led Super Kings. Whereas Kolkata Knight Riders have won three of their five matches and are at the third spot in the points table.

From watching MS Dhoni from Chepauk stands to dismissing him in IPL 2020: Varun Chakravarthy's surreal moment

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