Sergio Perez was given only a few hours notice that he was to be replaced at Racing Point next year by Sebastian Vettel, the Mexican driver said on Thursday.

Perez, who had a contract for 2021 and believed the team wanted him to stay, learned his fate during a phone call from team owner Lawrence Stroll on Wednesday, shortly before his departure was confirmed.&nbsp;

The Canadian billionaire told him the team was going "in another direction".

"I didn't expect that. It is how it is," Perez told a news conference on Thursday ahead of this weekend’s Tuscan Grand Prix.

Until then, said Perez, "nobody told me anything".

Perez announced his exit, after seven years with the Silverstone-based team, on social media later Wednesday and Vettel was confirmed as joining on a multi-year contract starting in 2021, with the re-branding of the team as Aston Martin, on Thursday morning.

"Nobody told me anything, but I already knew and figured out a couple of things," said Perez.&nbsp;

"Final confirmation came yesterday. It's fine. Seven years with the team -- I know everything has a beginning and also an end.&nbsp;

"We still have nine races to make each other proud."

Only four weeks ago at the Spanish Grand Prix, Perez quashed speculation that he was to be replaced by four-time champion Vettel.&nbsp;

He felt it was only a "matter of time" before the team confirmed in public the feedback he was being given about him continuing with them in 2021.

"That was the feedback that I was getting, that the team wanted to keep me and so on," he explained. &nbsp;

"There were some discussions in the background, about contracts and so on, that I'm not willing to disclose because I think those things should remain between the team and myself.

"There were a couple of things in the contract that we went through…. &nbsp;In the end, they officially told me yesterday that I'm not continuing."

<h2>- 'I understand it' -</h2>

Perez signed a three-year agreement last season and had a contract for 2021, which together with the team's apparent desire to keep him persuaded him not to seek any alternatives.

He was reluctant to criticise Racing Point's handling of the situation too forcefully but suggested that he could have been given more clarity.

"I understand it. It's the negotiations going on," he said.&nbsp;

"They probably took longer than I thought… Probably, a bit more clarity would have helped regarding my future as well.

"Then I would have looked for a plan B, which probably wouldn't have changed anything."

Perez, who now has no seat for 2021, said he wants to stay in Formula One next year with a competitive team.

"I think everything is an option right now. My main target is to remain in F1. I feel that I'm still very young and hungry and want to carry on, but it has to be the right package.

"A package that really gives me the maximum motivation to give 100 per cent every single lap and also a long-term project, targeting 2022, because then I expect the rule change to play a major effect."&nbsp;

Sergio Perez was given only a few hours notice that he was to be replaced at Racing Point next year by Sebastian Vettel, the Mexican driver said on Thursday. Perez, who had a contract for 2021 and believed the team wanted him to stay, learned his fate during a phone call from team owner Lawrence Stroll on Wednesday, shortly before his departure was confirmed.

Sergio Perez was given only a few hours notice that he was to be replaced at Racing Point next year by Sebastian Vettel, the Mexican driver said on Thursday. Perez, who had a contract for 2021 and believed the team wanted him to stay, learned his fate during a phone call from team owner Lawrence Stroll on Wednesday, shortly before his departure was confirmed. The Canadian billionaire told him the team was going "in another direction". "I didn't expect that. It is how it is," Perez told a news conference on Thursday ahead of this weekend’s Tuscan Grand Prix. Until then, said Perez, "nobody told me anything". Perez announced his exit, after seven years with the Silverstone-based team, on social media later Wednesday and Vettel was confirmed as joining on a multi-year contract starting in 2021, with the re-branding of the team as Aston Martin, on Thursday morning. "Nobody told me anything, but I already knew and figured out a couple of things," said Perez. "Final confirmation came yesterday. It's fine. Seven years with the team -- I know everything has a beginning and also an end. "We still have nine races to make each other proud." Only four weeks ago at the Spanish Grand Prix, Perez quashed speculation that he was to be replaced by four-time champion Vettel. He felt it was only a "matter of time" before the team confirmed in public the feedback he was being given about him continuing with them in 2021. "That was the feedback that I was getting, that the team wanted to keep me and so on," he explained. "There were some discussions in the background, about contracts and so on, that I'm not willing to disclose because I think those things should remain between the team and myself. "There were a couple of things in the contract that we went through…. In the end, they officially told me yesterday that I'm not continuing." - 'I understand it' - Perez signed a three-year agreement last season and had a contract for 2021, which together with the team's apparent desire to keep him persuaded him not to seek any alternatives. He was reluctant to criticise Racing Point's handling of the situation too forcefully but suggested that he could have been given more clarity. "I understand it. It's the negotiations going on," he said. "They probably took longer than I thought… Probably, a bit more clarity would have helped regarding my future as well. "Then I would have looked for a plan B, which probably wouldn't have changed anything." Perez, who now has no seat for 2021, said he wants to stay in Formula One next year with a competitive team. "I think everything is an option right now. My main target is to remain in F1. I feel that I'm still very young and hungry and want to carry on, but it has to be the right package. "A package that really gives me the maximum motivation to give 100 per cent every single lap and also a long-term project, targeting 2022, because then I expect the rule change to play a major effect."

'I didn't expect that', says axed Racing Point driver Perez

Aaron Finch said that Australia are still searching for their “best formula” in ODI cricket while adding that world champions England are still the benchmarks when it comes to white-ball cricket. &nbsp;

After three-match T20I series, England and Australia will lock horns in an ODI series consisting of three matches starting in Manchester. England won the T20I series 2-1.

The ODI match at Old Trafford will be the first 50-over encounter between the two sides since England defeated the Aussies in 2019 World Cup semi-final and went on to lift the trophy.

Finch said that Australia have made good progress in ODI cricket but emphasized that there is still room for improvement.

"Over the last couple of years we're still searching for our best formula and our best 11 players day in, day out in the one-day format," Finch said in a virtual press conference on Thursday.

IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/ipl-2020-updated-squad-list-of-all-the-franchises-retained-and-bought-players-326654" hreflang="en">IPL 2020: Updated squad list of all the franchises; retained and bought players</a>&nbsp;

"I don't think there's been any secret to that. There's been great opportunity that we probably haven't nailed in this format. We've played some really good cricket in patches and some indifferent cricket in other patches."

Australia are fifth in the global ODI rankings but are the number one side in T20 cricket.

"I think it's just finding a consistent selection formula," he said. "We did a lot of work in the Covid break on how we think we can structure our one-day cricket and where we think we need to get to for that 2023 World Cup.

"It's about getting as much information all the time to give us the best chance of winning consistently. One-day cricket is a hard game, especially away from home."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2020-more-than-20000-covid-19-tests-planned-during-the-tournament-326635" hreflang="en">IPL 2020: More than 20,000 COVID-19 tests planned during the tournament</a>

But he warned England, ranked number one in ODIs, had enviable firepower with bat and ball.

"They keep coming at you," he said. "There's no part in a 20-over game or a 50-over game that you can take your foot off the gas because there will be someone there to take the opportunity away from you."

"I think their form in white-ball cricket has been exceptional in both formats over the last few years," he added. "Obviously their one-day game has probably been the benchmark since probably 2016 so it's going to be a great challenge."

(From AFP inputs)

Aaron Finch said that Australia are still searching for their “best formula” in ODI cricket while adding that world champions England are still the benchmarks when it comes to white-ball cricket.

Aaron Finch said that Australia are still searching for their “best formula” in ODI cricket while adding that world champions England are still the benchmarks when it comes to white-ball cricket. After three-match T20I series, England and Australia will lock horns in an ODI series consisting of three matches starting in Manchester. England won the T20I series 2-1. The ODI match at Old Trafford will be the first 50-over encounter between the two sides since England defeated the Aussies in 2019 World Cup semi-final and went on to lift the trophy. Finch said that Australia have made good progress in ODI cricket but emphasized that there is still room for improvement. "Over the last couple of years we're still searching for our best formula and our best 11 players day in, day out in the one-day format," Finch said in a virtual press conference on Thursday. IN PICS | IPL 2020: Updated squad list of all the franchises; retained and bought players "I don't think there's been any secret to that. There's been great opportunity that we probably haven't nailed in this format. We've played some really good cricket in patches and some indifferent cricket in other patches." Australia are fifth in the global ODI rankings but are the number one side in T20 cricket. "I think it's just finding a consistent selection formula," he said. "We did a lot of work in the Covid break on how we think we can structure our one-day cricket and where we think we need to get to for that 2023 World Cup. "It's about getting as much information all the time to give us the best chance of winning consistently. One-day cricket is a hard game, especially away from home." ALSO READ: IPL 2020: More than 20,000 COVID-19 tests planned during the tournament But he warned England, ranked number one in ODIs, had enviable firepower with bat and ball. "They keep coming at you," he said. "There's no part in a 20-over game or a 50-over game that you can take your foot off the gas because there will be someone there to take the opportunity away from you." "I think their form in white-ball cricket has been exceptional in both formats over the last few years," he added. "Obviously their one-day game has probably been the benchmark since probably 2016 so it's going to be a great challenge." (From AFP inputs)

World champions England still the benchmark in ODIs: Australian captain Aaron Finch

Rajasthan Royals have been enjoying a good pre-season, stationed at One & Only Resort, Royal Mirage in Dubai, ahead of the start of the #IPL2020 campaign. On a relaxed morning at the beach of One & Only Resort, Royal Mirage, Dubai, Team #RajasthanRoyals were in for a mind-blowing surprise when they witnessed the Red Bull Skydiving and Wingsuit Athlete Dani Roman twist and turn through the air at break-neck speed. The Spanish skydiving athlete jumped out of a plane, several thousand feet above the Palm Islands, carrying with him a Rajasthan Royals bag. Flying over the awe-struck Rajasthan Royals players as he left a strew of smoke through the air, he parachuted on to the beach and dropped off a bag full of Rajasthan Royals 2020 jersey for the players to grab them later.

IPL 2020: Rajasthan Royals reveal new jersey in jaw-dropping fashion

IPL 2020: Updated squad list of all the franchises; retained and bought players

More than 20,000 COVID-19 tests will be carried out during the much-awaited <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/ipl">Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020</a>, tournaments medical partner said on Thursday with the world’s richest cricket league set to start on September 19 in the UAE.

Most of the 200 players from eight franchises arrived in the UAE last month and spent six days in isolation in their hotel rooms after extensive test before and after arriving. The COVID-19 tests were carried upon their arrival and then against two days later. Following a final test two days after, the players were moved in a bio-secure bubble.

The rules, as per BCCI’s SOP, apply for support staff, umpires, officials from the BCCI and others involved in IPL 2020.

VPS healthcare, IPL 2020’s Abu Dhabi-based official medical partner on Wednesday said that as many as 3,500 tests have been conducted so far.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2020-anthem-delhi-based-rapper-accuses-organisers-of-plagiarising-ipl-2020-anthem-326522" hreflang="en">Delhi-based rapper accuses organisers of plagiarising IPL 2020 anthem</a>

"During the course of the tournament, we will be conducting over 20,000 tests," a spokesman told AFP.

"The movement of the players and other officials of the IPL are strictly restricted between the hotel and the stadium," the spokesman said.

The organisers had a shaky start after the teams landed in the UAE in August as two players and 11 officials from the Chennai Super Kings tested positive for the dreaded virus. Two Super Kings players in Suresh Raina and Harbhajan Singh have opted out of the tournament due to ‘personal reasons’.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2020-csk-paceman-deepak-chahar-tests-negative-for-covid-19-twice-returns-to-team-326510" hreflang="en">IPL 2020: CSK paceman Deepak Chahar tests negative for COVID-19 twice; returns to team</a>

Sri Lanka's Lasith Malinga (Mumbai Indians), Jason Roy (Delhi Capitals) of England also pulled out while Australian quick Kane Richardson withdrew for the birth of his first child.

The tournament kicks off with Chennai Super Kings taking on defending champions Mumbai Indians in Abu Dhabi. In all, 24 matches will be held in Dubai, 20 in Abu Dhabi and 12 in Sharjah.

More than 20,000 COVID-19 tests will be carried out during the much-awaited Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020, tournaments medical partner said on Thursday with the world’s richest cricket league set to start on September 19 in the UAE.

More than 20,000 COVID-19 tests will be carried out during the much-awaited Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020, tournaments medical partner said on Thursday with the world’s richest cricket league set to start on September 19 in the UAE. Most of the 200 players from eight franchises arrived in the UAE last month and spent six days in isolation in their hotel rooms after extensive test before and after arriving. The COVID-19 tests were carried upon their arrival and then against two days later. Following a final test two days after, the players were moved in a bio-secure bubble. The rules, as per BCCI’s SOP, apply for support staff, umpires, officials from the BCCI and others involved in IPL 2020. VPS healthcare, IPL 2020’s Abu Dhabi-based official medical partner on Wednesday said that as many as 3,500 tests have been conducted so far. ALSO READ: Delhi-based rapper accuses organisers of plagiarising IPL 2020 anthem "During the course of the tournament, we will be conducting over 20,000 tests," a spokesman told AFP. "The movement of the players and other officials of the IPL are strictly restricted between the hotel and the stadium," the spokesman said. The organisers had a shaky start after the teams landed in the UAE in August as two players and 11 officials from the Chennai Super Kings tested positive for the dreaded virus. Two Super Kings players in Suresh Raina and Harbhajan Singh have opted out of the tournament due to ‘personal reasons’. ALSO READ: IPL 2020: CSK paceman Deepak Chahar tests negative for COVID-19 twice; returns to team Sri Lanka's Lasith Malinga (Mumbai Indians), Jason Roy (Delhi Capitals) of England also pulled out while Australian quick Kane Richardson withdrew for the birth of his first child. The tournament kicks off with Chennai Super Kings taking on defending champions Mumbai Indians in Abu Dhabi. In all, 24 matches will be held in Dubai, 20 in Abu Dhabi and 12 in Sharjah.

IPL 2020: More than 20,000 COVID-19 tests planned during the tournament

Trinbago Knight Riders (TKR) are all set to lock horns with St Lucia Zouks (SLZ) in the final of Caribbean Premier League (CPL) 2020 at the Brian Lara Stadium, Tarouba, Trinidad on Thursday. While TKR has been unbeaten in the league so far and will going for the final kill in the summit clash, SLZ head into the final encounter with a comfortable win in the semi-final.&nbsp;

TKR are packed with some big names and will hope the likes of Kieron Pollard, Dwayne Bravo and Sunil Narine help the team cross the final hurdle. Zouks will be banking on their skipper Daren Sammy to pull off a magic and cast an upset to lift the coveted trophy.

CPL 2020 has been a mixed affair in terms of high-scoring matches with spinners dominating on slow and sluggish tracks. However, given the fire-power in both the line-ups, plenty of runs can be expected. The team which controls the run-flow better has an added advantage in the summit clash of Caribbean Premier League 2020.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2020-anthem-delhi-based-rapper-accuses-organisers-of-plagiarising-ipl-2020-anthem-326522" hreflang="en">Delhi-based rapper accuses organisers of plagiarising IPL 2020 anthem</a>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
David v Goliath? <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CPL20?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CPL20</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CPLFinal?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CPLFinal</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CricketPlayedLouder?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CricketPlayedLouder</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/darensammy88?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@darensammy88</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/KieronPollard55?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@KieronPollard55</a> <a href="https://t.co/AUPtH7TXss">pic.twitter.com/AUPtH7TXss</a>
— CPL T20 (@CPL) <a href="https://twitter.com/CPL/status/1304004727051554816?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 10, 2020</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

<h2>Where will the CPL 2020 final match between Trinbago Knight Riders and St Lucia Zouks be held?</h2>

The CPL 2020 final match between Trinbago Knight Riders and St Lucia Zouks will be played at Brian Lara Stadium, Tarouba, Trinidad.

<h2>What time does the CPL 2020 final match between Trinbago Knight Riders and St Lucia Zouks start?</h2>

The CPL 2020 final match between Trinbago Knight Riders and St Lucia Zouks will start at 7:30 PM IST. The toss will take place at 07:00 PM IST.

<h2>Which TV channels will broadcast the CPL 2020 final match between Trinbago Knight Riders and St Lucia Zouks?</h2>

The CPL 2020 final match between Trinbago Knight Riders and St Lucia Zouks will broadcast on Star Sports Network.

<h2>Where to watch live streaming online of CPL 2020 final match between Trinbago Knight Riders and St Lucia Zouks?</h2>

The live streaming of CPL 2020 final match between Trinbago Knight Riders and St Lucia Zouks will be available on the FanCode app. 
&nbsp;

Trinbago Knight Riders (TKR) are all set to lock horns with St Lucia Zouks (SLZ) in the final of Caribbean Premier League (CPL) 2020 at the Brian Lara Stadium, Tarouba, Trinidad on Thursday.

Trinbago Knight Riders (TKR) are all set to lock horns with St Lucia Zouks (SLZ) in the final of Caribbean Premier League (CPL) 2020 at the Brian Lara Stadium, Tarouba, Trinidad on Thursday. While TKR has been unbeaten in the league so far and will going for the final kill in the summit clash, SLZ head into the final encounter with a comfortable win in the semi-final. TKR are packed with some big names and will hope the likes of Kieron Pollard, Dwayne Bravo and Sunil Narine help the team cross the final hurdle. Zouks will be banking on their skipper Daren Sammy to pull off a magic and cast an upset to lift the coveted trophy. CPL 2020 has been a mixed affair in terms of high-scoring matches with spinners dominating on slow and sluggish tracks. However, given the fire-power in both the line-ups, plenty of runs can be expected. The team which controls the run-flow better has an added advantage in the summit clash of Caribbean Premier League 2020. ALSO READ: Delhi-based rapper accuses organisers of plagiarising IPL 2020 anthem David v Goliath? #CPL20 #CPLFinal #CricketPlayedLouder @darensammy88 @KieronPollard55 pic.twitter.com/AUPtH7TXss — CPL T20 (@CPL) September 10, 2020 × Where will the CPL 2020 final match between Trinbago Knight Riders and St Lucia Zouks be held? The CPL 2020 final match between Trinbago Knight Riders and St Lucia Zouks will be played at Brian Lara Stadium, Tarouba, Trinidad. What time does the CPL 2020 final match between Trinbago Knight Riders and St Lucia Zouks start? The CPL 2020 final match between Trinbago Knight Riders and St Lucia Zouks will start at 7:30 PM IST. The toss will take place at 07:00 PM IST. Which TV channels will broadcast the CPL 2020 final match between Trinbago Knight Riders and St Lucia Zouks? The CPL 2020 final match between Trinbago Knight Riders and St Lucia Zouks will broadcast on Star Sports Network. Where to watch live streaming online of CPL 2020 final match between Trinbago Knight Riders and St Lucia Zouks? The live streaming of CPL 2020 final match between Trinbago Knight Riders and St Lucia Zouks will be available on the FanCode app.

TKR vs SLZ, CPL 2020 Final Live Streaming: When and where to watch Trinbago vs Zouks match?

LaLiga Santander made history on Wednesday, becoming the first European sports league to ring the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) opening bell. LaLiga president, Javier Tebas, and the country head of Banco Santander in Spain, Rami Aboukhair, rang the opening bell during the digital ceremony on Wednesday morning.

The NYSE bell ringing was carried out remotely due to COVID. The ceremony featured images of the crests of all of the LaLiga clubs. LaLiga's involvement, which was secured thanks to Banco Santander, underscores the organization's social, sporting and financial status on a global scale.

The honor represents LaLiga’s strategic international expansion efforts following the launch of LaLiga North America, the joint venture between LaLiga and Relevent Sports Group, two years ago. LaLiga North America has developed a regional strategy bringing LaLiga and its clubs closer to its fans, establishing partnerships and new revenue opportunities, and positioing itself as a leader in growing a foreign competition in the United States.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/lionel-messi-gifts-young-blind-arsenal-fan-orcam-glasses-in-life-changing-gesture-326543" hreflang="en">Lionel Messi gifts young blind Arsenal fan OrCam glasses in life-changing gesture</a>

"We're delighted to have taken part in the virtual Wall Street bell ringing. The financial markets are Banco Santander's usual playing field and today sees us joined by LaLiga Santander, a competition which is about more than just football. It accounts for 1.4% of Spain's GDP and creates almost 200,000 jobs across the country. In short, it helps society to progress. And besides the business aspect, it's all about passion, entertainment and values, such as sacrifice, effort and teamwork, that we identify strongly with," commented Aboukhair.

"It's a source of pride for LaLiga and its clubs to virtually take part in the Wall Street bell ringing alongside our main sponsors, Banco Santander, in an event that once again highlights LaLiga's social standing, its internationalisation and contribution towards the Spain brand and the country's economy," declared Tebas.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/messi-back-in-full-training-with-barca-326358" hreflang="en">Messi back in full training with Barca</a>

In addition to the symbolic and traditional ceremony, the ringing of the NYSE bell, in the words of the financial institution , "is critical to the orderly functioning of the marketplace, assuring that no trades take place before the opening or after the close."

LaLiga Santander made history on Wednesday, becoming the first European sports league to ring the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) opening bell. LaLiga president, Javier Tebas, and the country head of Banco Santander in Spain, Rami Aboukhair, rang the opening bell during the digital ceremony on Wednesday morning.

LaLiga Santander made history on Wednesday, becoming the first European sports league to ring the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) opening bell. LaLiga president, Javier Tebas, and the country head of Banco Santander in Spain, Rami Aboukhair, rang the opening bell during the digital ceremony on Wednesday morning. The NYSE bell ringing was carried out remotely due to COVID. The ceremony featured images of the crests of all of the LaLiga clubs. LaLiga's involvement, which was secured thanks to Banco Santander, underscores the organization's social, sporting and financial status on a global scale. The honor represents LaLiga’s strategic international expansion efforts following the launch of LaLiga North America, the joint venture between LaLiga and Relevent Sports Group, two years ago. LaLiga North America has developed a regional strategy bringing LaLiga and its clubs closer to its fans, establishing partnerships and new revenue opportunities, and positioing itself as a leader in growing a foreign competition in the United States. ALSO READ: Lionel Messi gifts young blind Arsenal fan OrCam glasses in life-changing gesture "We're delighted to have taken part in the virtual Wall Street bell ringing. The financial markets are Banco Santander's usual playing field and today sees us joined by LaLiga Santander, a competition which is about more than just football. It accounts for 1.4% of Spain's GDP and creates almost 200,000 jobs across the country. In short, it helps society to progress. And besides the business aspect, it's all about passion, entertainment and values, such as sacrifice, effort and teamwork, that we identify strongly with," commented Aboukhair. "It's a source of pride for LaLiga and its clubs to virtually take part in the Wall Street bell ringing alongside our main sponsors, Banco Santander, in an event that once again highlights LaLiga's social standing, its internationalisation and contribution towards the Spain brand and the country's economy," declared Tebas. ALSO READ: Messi back in full training with Barca In addition to the symbolic and traditional ceremony, the ringing of the NYSE bell, in the words of the financial institution , "is critical to the orderly functioning of the marketplace, assuring that no trades take place before the opening or after the close."

LaLiga Santander rings Wall Street Bell, becomes the first European sports league to ring the NYSE opening bell

Former Indian captain MS Dhoni, who also holds the honorary rank of Lieutenant Colonel in the Territorial Army, on Thursday took to social media platform Twitter to congratulate the Indian Air Force following the induction ceremony as he wished the 17 Squadron 'Golden Arrows' the very best as he hoped Rafale beats the service record of the Mirage 2000. Dhoni even revealed that SU30MKI remains his favourite.&nbsp;

The first batch of five Rafale jets were inducted into the Indian Air Force’s 17 Squadron ‘Golden Arrows’ on Thursday at the Ambala Air Force Station in the presence of Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Florence Parly, his defence counterpart, Chief of Defence Staff Bipin Rawat, Air Chief Marshal RKS Bhadauria and Defence Secretary Ajay Kumar.

The first five Indian Air Force Rafale aircraft had arrived in Ambala from France on July 27, 2020 before undergoing extensive testing and preparation including series of night sorties.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2020-ms-dhoni-will-give-100-per-cent-for-csk-despite-international-retirement-says-kumble-326348" hreflang="en">IPL 2020: MS Dhoni will give 100 per cent for CSK despite international retirement, says Kumble</a>

Following the 2019 World Cup semifinal loss, Dhoni had trained with the Parachute Regiment for more than a month.

“With the Final Induction Ceremony the world’s best combat proven 4.5Gen fighter plane gets the world’s best fighter pilots. In the hands of our pilots and the mix of different aircrafts with the IAF the potent bird’s lethality will only increase,” MS Dhoni tweeted on Thursday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/iaf-gets-rafale-boost-amid-india-china-standoff-316311">In Pics: IAF gets Rafale boost amid India-China standoff</a>

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With the Final Induction Ceremony the world’s best combat proven 4.5Gen fighter plane gets the world’s best fighter pilots. In the hands of our pilots and the mix of different aircrafts with the IAF the potent bird’s lethality will only increase.
— Mahendra Singh Dhoni (@msdhoni) <a href="https://twitter.com/msdhoni/status/1303948918296895489?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 10, 2020</a></blockquote>
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“Wishing The Glorious 17 Squadron (Golden Arrows) all the very best and for all of us hope the Rafale beats the service record of the Mirage 2000 but Su30MKI remains my fav and the boys get new target to dogfight with and wait for BVR engagement till their upgrade to Super Sukhoi,” he added.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/yuvraj-singh-looking-to-come-out-of-retirement-shoots-e-mail-to-bcci-326319" hreflang="en">Yuvraj Singh looking to come out of retirement, shoots e-mail to BCCI</a>

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Wishing The Glorious 17 Squadron(Golden Arrows) all the very best and for all of us hope the Rafale beats the service record of the Mirage 2000 but Su30MKI remains my fav and the boys get new target to dogfight with and wait for BVR engagement till their upgrade to Super Sukhoi
— Mahendra Singh Dhoni (@msdhoni) <a href="https://twitter.com/msdhoni/status/1303950494466015233?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 10, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The 17 Squadron ‘Golden Arrows’ has many firsts to its credit; in 1955 it was equipped with the first jet fighter, the legendary De Havilland Vampire.

Thus far, 10 Rafale jets have been delivered to India.&nbsp;

A traditional 'sarva dharma puja', a ceremonial 'water cannon salute' to the Rafale jets and an aerial display featuring various breathtaking manoeuvres by the aircraft marked their induction into the 17 Squadron of the IAF.

A second batch of four to five Rafale jets are likely to arrive in India by November.

Former Indian captain MS Dhoni, who also holds the honorary rank of Lieutenant Colonel in the Territorial Army, on Thursday took to social media platform Twitter to congratulate the Indian Air Force following the induction ceremony as he wished the 17 Squadron 'Golden Arrows' the very best as he hoped Rafale beats the service record of the Mirage 2000.

Former Indian captain MS Dhoni, who also holds the honorary rank of Lieutenant Colonel in the Territorial Army, on Thursday took to social media platform Twitter to congratulate the Indian Air Force following the induction ceremony as he wished the 17 Squadron 'Golden Arrows' the very best as he hoped Rafale beats the service record of the Mirage 2000. Dhoni even revealed that SU30MKI remains his favourite. The first batch of five Rafale jets were inducted into the Indian Air Force’s 17 Squadron ‘Golden Arrows’ on Thursday at the Ambala Air Force Station in the presence of Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Florence Parly, his defence counterpart, Chief of Defence Staff Bipin Rawat, Air Chief Marshal RKS Bhadauria and Defence Secretary Ajay Kumar. The first five Indian Air Force Rafale aircraft had arrived in Ambala from France on July 27, 2020 before undergoing extensive testing and preparation including series of night sorties. ALSO READ: IPL 2020: MS Dhoni will give 100 per cent for CSK despite international retirement, says Kumble Following the 2019 World Cup semifinal loss, Dhoni had trained with the Parachute Regiment for more than a month. “With the Final Induction Ceremony the world’s best combat proven 4.5Gen fighter plane gets the world’s best fighter pilots. In the hands of our pilots and the mix of different aircrafts with the IAF the potent bird’s lethality will only increase,” MS Dhoni tweeted on Thursday. In Pics: IAF gets Rafale boost amid India-China standoff With the Final Induction Ceremony the world’s best combat proven 4.5Gen fighter plane gets the world’s best fighter pilots. In the hands of our pilots and the mix of different aircrafts with the IAF the potent bird’s lethality will only increase. — Mahendra Singh Dhoni (@msdhoni) September 10, 2020 × “Wishing The Glorious 17 Squadron (Golden Arrows) all the very best and for all of us hope the Rafale beats the service record of the Mirage 2000 but Su30MKI remains my fav and the boys get new target to dogfight with and wait for BVR engagement till their upgrade to Super Sukhoi,” he added. ALSO READ: Yuvraj Singh looking to come out of retirement, shoots e-mail to BCCI Wishing The Glorious 17 Squadron(Golden Arrows) all the very best and for all of us hope the Rafale beats the service record of the Mirage 2000 but Su30MKI remains my fav and the boys get new target to dogfight with and wait for BVR engagement till their upgrade to Super Sukhoi — Mahendra Singh Dhoni (@msdhoni) September 10, 2020 × The 17 Squadron ‘Golden Arrows’ has many firsts to its credit; in 1955 it was equipped with the first jet fighter, the legendary De Havilland Vampire. Thus far, 10 Rafale jets have been delivered to India. A traditional 'sarva dharma puja', a ceremonial 'water cannon salute' to the Rafale jets and an aerial display featuring various breathtaking manoeuvres by the aircraft marked their induction into the 17 Squadron of the IAF. A second batch of four to five Rafale jets are likely to arrive in India by November.

MS Dhoni wishes 17 Squadron 'Golden Arrows' the very best after induction of Rafale jets

Four-time Formula One world champion Sebastian Vettel has joined the Canadian-owned Racing Point team and will race for Aston Martin after signing a multi-year deal as his stint with Ferrari comes to an end. Vettel replaces Mexican driver Sergio Perez, who announced his exit at the end of 2020 season on Wednesday.&nbsp;

“I am pleased to finally share this exciting news about my future. I’m extremely proud to say that I will become an Aston Martin driver in 2021,” Vettel said in a team statement ahead of Sunday’s Tuscan Grand Prix at Italy’s Mugello circuit.

“It’s a new adventure for me with a truly legendary car company. I have been impressed with the results the team has achieved this year and I believe the future looks even brighter,” he said.

“I believe we can build something very special together. I still have so much love for Formula One and my only motivation is to race at the front of the grid.”

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/one-year-after-red-bull-dumping-gasly-delivers-maiden-f1-triumph-325673" hreflang="en">One year after Red Bull dumping, Gasly delivers maiden F1 triumph</a>

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CONFIRMED: Four-time <a href="https://twitter.com/F1?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@F1</a> World Champion Sebastian Vettel signs up for 2021 and beyond 🖋️ 
 
Get the full story right here ⬇️<a href="https://t.co/zI8JeBEemc">https://t.co/zI8JeBEemc</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/F1?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#F1</a>
— BWT Racing Point F1 Team (@RacingPointF1) <a href="https://twitter.com/RacingPointF1/status/1303952148875673600?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 10, 2020</a></blockquote>
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While the statement didn’t share much details but Vettel said that he has signed up for 2021 and beyond. Vettel has had a topsy-turvvy run with Ferrari since the arrival of Charles Leclerc, who beat him on wins, points and poles last season.

Ferrari have struggled in the 2020 season but had announced in May that Vettel would be leaving at the end of the season and will be replaced by Spaniard Carlos Sainz from McLaren.

Vettell, at Merceded-powered Aston Martin, will team up with Canadian racer Lance Stroll.

“Everybody at Silverstone is hugely excited by this news. Sebastian is a proven champion and brings a winning mentality that matches our own ambitions for the future as Aston Martin F1 team,” team principal Otmar Szafnauer said.

“Sebastian is one of the best in the world and I can’t think of a better driver to help take us into this new era. He will play a significant role in taking this team to the next level.”

Four-time Formula One world champion Sebastian Vettel has joined the Canadian-owned Racing Point team and will race for Aston Martin after signing a multi-year deal as his stint with Ferrari comes to an end.

Four-time Formula One world champion Sebastian Vettel has joined the Canadian-owned Racing Point team and will race for Aston Martin after signing a multi-year deal as his stint with Ferrari comes to an end. Vettel replaces Mexican driver Sergio Perez, who announced his exit at the end of 2020 season on Wednesday. “I am pleased to finally share this exciting news about my future. I’m extremely proud to say that I will become an Aston Martin driver in 2021,” Vettel said in a team statement ahead of Sunday’s Tuscan Grand Prix at Italy’s Mugello circuit. “It’s a new adventure for me with a truly legendary car company. I have been impressed with the results the team has achieved this year and I believe the future looks even brighter,” he said. “I believe we can build something very special together. I still have so much love for Formula One and my only motivation is to race at the front of the grid.” ALSO READ: One year after Red Bull dumping, Gasly delivers maiden F1 triumph CONFIRMED: Four-time @F1 World Champion Sebastian Vettel signs up for 2021 and beyond 🖋️ Get the full story right here ⬇️https://t.co/zI8JeBEemc #F1 — BWT Racing Point F1 Team (@RacingPointF1) September 10, 2020 × While the statement didn’t share much details but Vettel said that he has signed up for 2021 and beyond. Vettel has had a topsy-turvvy run with Ferrari since the arrival of Charles Leclerc, who beat him on wins, points and poles last season. Ferrari have struggled in the 2020 season but had announced in May that Vettel would be leaving at the end of the season and will be replaced by Spaniard Carlos Sainz from McLaren. Vettell, at Merceded-powered Aston Martin, will team up with Canadian racer Lance Stroll. “Everybody at Silverstone is hugely excited by this news. Sebastian is a proven champion and brings a winning mentality that matches our own ambitions for the future as Aston Martin F1 team,” team principal Otmar Szafnauer said. “Sebastian is one of the best in the world and I can’t think of a better driver to help take us into this new era. He will play a significant role in taking this team to the next level.”

Sebastian Vettel signs for Aston Martin from Ferrari for '2021 and beyond'

Barcelona megastar Lionel Messi has come to the help of a young blind Arsenal fan as he sent the child a life-changing pair of glasses worth £4,200 by OrCam Technologies. Messi has joined hands with the Israel-based firm in a bid to increase awareness of the challenges faced by the blind and visually impaired community.

Messi will hand out OrCam MyEye device to people with inspiring stories, who are suffering from blindness or are visually impaired, every year. They also have the chance to personally meet the six-time Ballon d’Or winner in Barcelona.&nbsp;

The selected individuals will go onto become members of ‘OrCam Dream Team’, which is led by Messi himself.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-clubs-forget-coronavirus-crisis-in-transfer-splurge-326502" hreflang="en">Premier League clubs forget coronavirus crisis in transfer splurge</a>

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With Soccer superstar Messi on OrCam’s Team, we aim to empower those who are <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/blind?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#blind</a> or <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/VisuallyImpaired?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#VisuallyImpaired</a> with the help of OrCam's assistive technology. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/OrCam_DreamTeam?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#OrCam_DreamTeam</a> <a href="https://t.co/oOEkR7hXom">pic.twitter.com/oOEkR7hXom</a>
— OrCam (@OrCam) <a href="https://twitter.com/OrCam/status/1303724853367840769?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 9, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Mikey – the 10-year-old blind footballer from Enfield in London – became the latest recipient of OrCam glasses. Before the COVID-19 pandemic, Messi had met 12 visually-impaired individuals in Barcelona to give them their glasses.&nbsp;

<h2>Emotion was incredible: Lionel Messi</h2>

On the meeting, Messi said: 'The emotion was incredible. Meeting with this amazing group of people from around the world was truly a magical and inspiring moment.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/messi-back-in-full-training-with-barca-326358" hreflang="en">Messi back in full training with Barca</a>

'Witnessing each of the members of the 'Dream Team' trying out the OrCam MyEye features, it was clear that this would be a life-changing device for each of them.&nbsp;

'I am proud to be an OrCam Ambassador to truly make a difference for so many.'&nbsp; 
Approximately 300million people worldwide suffer from blindness or varying degrees of visual impairment.

Meanwhile, Messi has also joined the full-training with his Barcelona teammates and is gearing up for the La Liga 2020-21 season, scheduled to kickstart on September 12. Messi was involved in a fallout with Barcelona board president Bartomeu but eventually decided to stay at Nou Camp as he couldn’t leave the club for free. 
&nbsp;

Barcelona megastar Lionel Messi has come to the help of a young blind Arsenal fan as he sent the child a life-changing pair of glasses worth £4,200 by OrCam Technologies.

Barcelona megastar Lionel Messi has come to the help of a young blind Arsenal fan as he sent the child a life-changing pair of glasses worth £4,200 by OrCam Technologies. Messi has joined hands with the Israel-based firm in a bid to increase awareness of the challenges faced by the blind and visually impaired community. Messi will hand out OrCam MyEye device to people with inspiring stories, who are suffering from blindness or are visually impaired, every year. They also have the chance to personally meet the six-time Ballon d’Or winner in Barcelona. The selected individuals will go onto become members of ‘OrCam Dream Team’, which is led by Messi himself. ALSO READ: Premier League clubs forget coronavirus crisis in transfer splurge With Soccer superstar Messi on OrCam’s Team, we aim to empower those who are #blind or #VisuallyImpaired with the help of OrCam's assistive technology. #OrCam_DreamTeam pic.twitter.com/oOEkR7hXom — OrCam (@OrCam) September 9, 2020 × Mikey – the 10-year-old blind footballer from Enfield in London – became the latest recipient of OrCam glasses. Before the COVID-19 pandemic, Messi had met 12 visually-impaired individuals in Barcelona to give them their glasses. Emotion was incredible: Lionel Messi On the meeting, Messi said: 'The emotion was incredible. Meeting with this amazing group of people from around the world was truly a magical and inspiring moment. ALSO READ: Messi back in full training with Barca 'Witnessing each of the members of the 'Dream Team' trying out the OrCam MyEye features, it was clear that this would be a life-changing device for each of them. 'I am proud to be an OrCam Ambassador to truly make a difference for so many.' Approximately 300million people worldwide suffer from blindness or varying degrees of visual impairment. Meanwhile, Messi has also joined the full-training with his Barcelona teammates and is gearing up for the La Liga 2020-21 season, scheduled to kickstart on September 12. Messi was involved in a fallout with Barcelona board president Bartomeu but eventually decided to stay at Nou Camp as he couldn’t leave the club for free.

Lionel Messi gifts young blind Arsenal fan OrCam glasses in life-changing gesture

The Trinbago Knight Riders spinners blasted a hole in the Jamaica Tallawahs top order to set up a cruise to a sub-par total with a full five overs to go, and leave themselves one win away from completing the first perfect season in Hero Caribbean Premier League (CPL) history.

Knight Riders captain Kieron Pollard had enough faith in his opening bowlers to start with himself at short leg, and Akeal Hosein repaid that faith by bowling Jermaine Blackwood. The Tallawahs sprung a surprise sending Mujeeb Ur Rahman in at number three, who just about played out a wicket-maiden. 
 
The Tallawahs were rocked further when Glenn Phillips cut Khary Pierre to Ali Khan. Nkrumah Bonner finally hit the game’s first boundary, easing Hosein through cover, but the Mujeeb experiment failed as he edged a reverse sweep onto his pad and was caught at slip, and the Tallawahs had slumped to 10/3 off three overs. 
 
Five wides from Pierre and a straight four by Bonner more than doubled the Tallawahs tally, but while Asif Ali got off the mark with a four over Hosein’s head he fell next ball cutting to Pollard at point. Pollard immediately went back into short leg, and kept himself there for the returning Sunil Narine who went for just three to close out a dominant Powerplay for the Knight Riders, after which the Tallawahs were reeling at 28/4.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/marsh-stars-as-australia-regain-top-spot-in-t20-rankings-from-england-326177" hreflang="en">Marsh stars as Australia regain top spot in T20 rankings from England</a> 
 
Bonner continued to resist - he cut Fawad Ahmed powerfully for four, a misfield gave him another off Narine to take him to 30, and he pulled Fawad to take the Tallawahs past 50. Pierre returned with a tight over that went for just three, and at the 10 over mark the Tallawahs were 55/4. 
 
Hosein bowled out with an over of just five, and Fawad ended Bonner’s resistance with a quick googly. That finally brought Andre Russell to the crease, but Narine put an end to his innings before it got going. Russell was beaten in the flight, the ball looped to DJ Bravo at slip and the umpire adjudged it came off bat and pad. The Tallawahs had lost their biggest weapon, and were 68/6 in the 14th. 
 
Three more boundary-less overs came and went. Rovman Powell had now faced 32 balls for his 26 runs, Carlos Brathwaite had managed only one off his 10 balls, and something had to give off Pierre’s last over. Powell hit one Hero Maximum, the first of the innings, but picked out Pollard at deep mid-off trying to repeat the shot next ball. Even with that six, he finished under a run a ball, and the Tallawahs were 92/7 off 18.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2020-bought-maxwell-as-we-needed-an-impact-player-in-the-middle-says-kumble-326024" hreflang="en">IPL 2020: Bought Maxwell as we needed an impact player in the middle, says Kumble</a> 
 
Brathwaite was lucky not to be run out first ball of the 19th, bowled by DJ Bravo whose three overs didn’t contain a single boundary. Ali Khan got the unusual job of bowling only the 20th over, and while Brathwaite finished the innings with a Hero Maximum that was only the third boundary in the last 11 overs of the innings. 
 
Lendl Simmons steered then pulled Fidel Edwards for consecutive fours to end the first over, but Narine wasn’t able to provide his usual powerful start, bowled by Mujeeb’s arm ball. Powell followed Pollard’s aggressive lead by putting himself at short leg, but Tion Webster was not intimidated, slapping Veerasammy Permaul through cover then slicing him for four to ruin a tight start to the over. After three overs, the Knight Riders were 23/1. 
 
Webster was confident enough to cut Mujeeb’s googly for four, and with wickets a must Powell for the first time in Hero CPL 2020 went to Sandeep Lamichhane in the Powerplay. Simmons paddled him for four first ball and then pulled Mujeeb to the fence, and the Knight Riders closed the Powerplay at 42/1. The required run rate was already under five an over.

Simmons marred a good over from Lamichhane with a slog-swept Hero Maximum, bringing up the Knight Riders’ 50. Simmons and Webster were able to work Lamichhane around as no-one had all tournament, and though Permaul’s second went for just two and his third was a maiden, at halfway the Knight Riders were comfortable at 61/1, needing just 47 more to win. 
 
Russell was called on to bowl, but Simmons pulled him for a Hero Maximum and, when Russell bowled a second short ball which was called a no-ball, helicoptered the free hit for four. Permaul bowled out with another economical over, but Simmons again pulled Russell for six to take 10 off the 13th over. The Knight Riders were now 90/1 and needed just 18 more.

Webster guided Lamichhane through cover for four to end the Nepali’s only wicketless spell of an excellent tournament, and Simmons became the leading 50-maker in the tournament’s history, overtaking Chris Gayle with a cover drive for four off Brathwaite, and Webster finished the job that same over.

Simmons needs just three more runs in Thursday’s final to overtake Gayle as Hero CPL’s all-time leading scorer. Much more importantly though, the Knight Riders have a chance to do what last year’s Guyana Amazon Warriors could not, and in doing so win a fourth Hero CPL title. The victors in the second semi will have a mighty task to deny them.

The Trinbago Knight Riders spinners blasted a hole in the Jamaica Tallawahs top order to set up a cruise to a sub-par total with a full five overs to go, and leave themselves one win away from completing the first perfect season in Hero Caribbean Premier League (CPL) history.

The Trinbago Knight Riders spinners blasted a hole in the Jamaica Tallawahs top order to set up a cruise to a sub-par total with a full five overs to go, and leave themselves one win away from completing the first perfect season in Hero Caribbean Premier League (CPL) history. Knight Riders captain Kieron Pollard had enough faith in his opening bowlers to start with himself at short leg, and Akeal Hosein repaid that faith by bowling Jermaine Blackwood. The Tallawahs sprung a surprise sending Mujeeb Ur Rahman in at number three, who just about played out a wicket-maiden. The Tallawahs were rocked further when Glenn Phillips cut Khary Pierre to Ali Khan. Nkrumah Bonner finally hit the game’s first boundary, easing Hosein through cover, but the Mujeeb experiment failed as he edged a reverse sweep onto his pad and was caught at slip, and the Tallawahs had slumped to 10/3 off three overs. Five wides from Pierre and a straight four by Bonner more than doubled the Tallawahs tally, but while Asif Ali got off the mark with a four over Hosein’s head he fell next ball cutting to Pollard at point. Pollard immediately went back into short leg, and kept himself there for the returning Sunil Narine who went for just three to close out a dominant Powerplay for the Knight Riders, after which the Tallawahs were reeling at 28/4. ALSO READ: Marsh stars as Australia regain top spot in T20 rankings from England Bonner continued to resist - he cut Fawad Ahmed powerfully for four, a misfield gave him another off Narine to take him to 30, and he pulled Fawad to take the Tallawahs past 50. Pierre returned with a tight over that went for just three, and at the 10 over mark the Tallawahs were 55/4. Hosein bowled out with an over of just five, and Fawad ended Bonner’s resistance with a quick googly. That finally brought Andre Russell to the crease, but Narine put an end to his innings before it got going. Russell was beaten in the flight, the ball looped to DJ Bravo at slip and the umpire adjudged it came off bat and pad. The Tallawahs had lost their biggest weapon, and were 68/6 in the 14th. Three more boundary-less overs came and went. Rovman Powell had now faced 32 balls for his 26 runs, Carlos Brathwaite had managed only one off his 10 balls, and something had to give off Pierre’s last over. Powell hit one Hero Maximum, the first of the innings, but picked out Pollard at deep mid-off trying to repeat the shot next ball. Even with that six, he finished under a run a ball, and the Tallawahs were 92/7 off 18. ALSO READ: IPL 2020: Bought Maxwell as we needed an impact player in the middle, says Kumble Brathwaite was lucky not to be run out first ball of the 19th, bowled by DJ Bravo whose three overs didn’t contain a single boundary. Ali Khan got the unusual job of bowling only the 20th over, and while Brathwaite finished the innings with a Hero Maximum that was only the third boundary in the last 11 overs of the innings. Lendl Simmons steered then pulled Fidel Edwards for consecutive fours to end the first over, but Narine wasn’t able to provide his usual powerful start, bowled by Mujeeb’s arm ball. Powell followed Pollard’s aggressive lead by putting himself at short leg, but Tion Webster was not intimidated, slapping Veerasammy Permaul through cover then slicing him for four to ruin a tight start to the over. After three overs, the Knight Riders were 23/1. Webster was confident enough to cut Mujeeb’s googly for four, and with wickets a must Powell for the first time in Hero CPL 2020 went to Sandeep Lamichhane in the Powerplay. Simmons paddled him for four first ball and then pulled Mujeeb to the fence, and the Knight Riders closed the Powerplay at 42/1. The required run rate was already under five an over. Simmons marred a good over from Lamichhane with a slog-swept Hero Maximum, bringing up the Knight Riders’ 50. Simmons and Webster were able to work Lamichhane around as no-one had all tournament, and though Permaul’s second went for just two and his third was a maiden, at halfway the Knight Riders were comfortable at 61/1, needing just 47 more to win. Russell was called on to bowl, but Simmons pulled him for a Hero Maximum and, when Russell bowled a second short ball which was called a no-ball, helicoptered the free hit for four. Permaul bowled out with another economical over, but Simmons again pulled Russell for six to take 10 off the 13th over. The Knight Riders were now 90/1 and needed just 18 more. Webster guided Lamichhane through cover for four to end the Nepali’s only wicketless spell of an excellent tournament, and Simmons became the leading 50-maker in the tournament’s history, overtaking Chris Gayle with a cover drive for four off Brathwaite, and Webster finished the job that same over. Simmons needs just three more runs in Thursday’s final to overtake Gayle as Hero CPL’s all-time leading scorer. Much more importantly though, the Knight Riders have a chance to do what last year’s Guyana Amazon Warriors could not, and in doing so win a fourth Hero CPL title. The victors in the second semi will have a mighty task to deny them.

CPL 2020: Dominant TKR one away from perfection

Manchester City midfielder Kevin de Bruyne has been named PFA Player of the Year for season 2019/20. The Belgian international becomes the first male Manchester City player ever to win the accolade that is voted for by his fellow professionals.

The midfielder, who also takes his place in the Team of the Year alongside former teammate and City legend David Silva, scored 16 goals and made 23 assists across all competitions – equalling Thierry Henry’s <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/premier-league">Premier League</a> record of 20 assists in one season. De Bruyne fought off competition from team-mate Raheem Sterling and Liverpool quartet Virgil van Dijk, Jordan Henderson, Sadio Mane and Trent Alexander Arnold to receive the coveted prize.

While both Izzy Christiansen and Lucy Bronze have won the women’s equivalent in previous campaigns, De Bruyne becomes the first City player ever to win the men’s award.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/everton-sign-james-rodriguez-from-real-madrid-325919" hreflang="en">Everton sign James Rodriguez from Real Madrid</a>

Speaking of his award, de Bruyne said: “It’s a huge honour. To be voted for by your colleagues and competitors from other teams who you play against and they vote for you for best player is amazing.

“It’s strange that I’m the first one at City given all the good players that have played here before and who are still playing here but it’s nice to represent the club.

“I think it is [the ultimate honour] because you compete against them, they want to win the trophies, they want to be the best. When they vote for you, and it’s everyone who is voting not just a few players, that means you’ve done really well during the season.”

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/lampard-expects-added-pressure-after-chelsea-spending-spree-325831" hreflang="en">Lampard expects added pressure after Chelsea spending spree</a>

Manager Pep Guardiola led the congratulations: “To win this award is an outstanding achievement, and Kevin is so deserving of it.

“To be recognised by other players is the most that any footballer can ask for, because they understand not only what it is to compete against you, but also the level of commitment it takes to play at the very top.

“There have been many great players in this club’s history, especially over the last decade working with Roberto, Manuel and myself. We have won many titles, but Kevin is the first to receive this prestigious award. This recognition is also a tribute to all the fantastic players who have come before him.

“We are so proud of Kevin and this will only strengthen what he means to this club and our fans. From all the players, coaches and staff at Manchester City, I would like to congratulate him.”

Manchester City midfielder Kevin de Bruyne has been named PFA Player of the Year for season 2019/20. The Belgian international becomes the first male Manchester City player ever to win the accolade that is voted for by his fellow professionals.

Manchester City midfielder Kevin de Bruyne has been named PFA Player of the Year for season 2019/20. The Belgian international becomes the first male Manchester City player ever to win the accolade that is voted for by his fellow professionals. The midfielder, who also takes his place in the Team of the Year alongside former teammate and City legend David Silva, scored 16 goals and made 23 assists across all competitions – equalling Thierry Henry’s Premier League record of 20 assists in one season. De Bruyne fought off competition from team-mate Raheem Sterling and Liverpool quartet Virgil van Dijk, Jordan Henderson, Sadio Mane and Trent Alexander Arnold to receive the coveted prize. While both Izzy Christiansen and Lucy Bronze have won the women’s equivalent in previous campaigns, De Bruyne becomes the first City player ever to win the men’s award. ALSO READ: Everton sign James Rodriguez from Real Madrid Speaking of his award, de Bruyne said: “It’s a huge honour. To be voted for by your colleagues and competitors from other teams who you play against and they vote for you for best player is amazing. “It’s strange that I’m the first one at City given all the good players that have played here before and who are still playing here but it’s nice to represent the club. “I think it is [the ultimate honour] because you compete against them, they want to win the trophies, they want to be the best. When they vote for you, and it’s everyone who is voting not just a few players, that means you’ve done really well during the season.” ALSO READ: Lampard expects added pressure after Chelsea spending spree Manager Pep Guardiola led the congratulations: “To win this award is an outstanding achievement, and Kevin is so deserving of it. “To be recognised by other players is the most that any footballer can ask for, because they understand not only what it is to compete against you, but also the level of commitment it takes to play at the very top. “There have been many great players in this club’s history, especially over the last decade working with Roberto, Manuel and myself. We have won many titles, but Kevin is the first to receive this prestigious award. This recognition is also a tribute to all the fantastic players who have come before him. “We are so proud of Kevin and this will only strengthen what he means to this club and our fans. From all the players, coaches and staff at Manchester City, I would like to congratulate him.”

Kevin de Bruyne crowned PFA Player of the Year

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