Ahead of the much-awaited <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/uefa-champions-league">UEFA Champions League</a> match against Manchester City, Real Madrid on Tuesday said that forward Mariano Diaz has tested positive for COVID-19 while casting doubts on his participation in their UCL match at the Etihad Stadium next week.

Real Madrid said that tests were conducted on the entire squad on Monday while adding Diaz was in “perfect health” and would be self-isolating at home.

The Los Blancos trail Man City 2-1 from the first leg of their round of 16 match, that was played at the iconic Santiago Bernabeu, before football like other sport, was supended in March. However, they are now set to play the Premier League club in the second leg on August 8.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/klopp-named-lma-manager-of-the-year-316449" hreflang="en">Klopp named LMA Manager of the Year</a>

"After the COVID-19 tests carried out individually on our first-team football squad yesterday by the Real Madrid Medical Services, our player Mariano has given a positive result," the club said on their website.

"The player is in perfect health and complying with the sanitary isolation protocol at home."

All of Real Madrid players were forced into quarantine back in March when basketball player Trey Thompkins tested positive for the dreaded virus with the La Liga suspended later on the same day.

Forward Luka Jovic was then forced to self-isolate after coming into contact with a friend who tested positive for coronavirus. However, the Serb made his comeback for Real Madrid in the last match of the season.&nbsp;

The situation has put Spanish football on alert and Madrid will need to find out whether Mariano came into contact with any of the teammates since contracting the virus. 
&nbsp;

Ahead of the much-awaited UEFA Champions League match against Manchester City, Real Madrid on Tuesday said that forward Mariano Diaz has tested positive for COVID-19 while casting doubts on his participation in their UCL match at the Etihad Stadium next week.

Ahead of the much-awaited UEFA Champions League match against Manchester City, Real Madrid on Tuesday said that forward Mariano Diaz has tested positive for COVID-19 while casting doubts on his participation in their UCL match at the Etihad Stadium next week. Real Madrid said that tests were conducted on the entire squad on Monday while adding Diaz was in “perfect health” and would be self-isolating at home. The Los Blancos trail Man City 2-1 from the first leg of their round of 16 match, that was played at the iconic Santiago Bernabeu, before football like other sport, was supended in March. However, they are now set to play the Premier League club in the second leg on August 8. ALSO READ: Klopp named LMA Manager of the Year "After the COVID-19 tests carried out individually on our first-team football squad yesterday by the Real Madrid Medical Services, our player Mariano has given a positive result," the club said on their website. "The player is in perfect health and complying with the sanitary isolation protocol at home." All of Real Madrid players were forced into quarantine back in March when basketball player Trey Thompkins tested positive for the dreaded virus with the La Liga suspended later on the same day. Forward Luka Jovic was then forced to self-isolate after coming into contact with a friend who tested positive for coronavirus. However, the Serb made his comeback for Real Madrid in the last match of the season. The situation has put Spanish football on alert and Madrid will need to find out whether Mariano came into contact with any of the teammates since contracting the virus.

Real Madrid forward tests positive for COVID-19, doubtful for Man City clash

India tasted Test series success on Australian soil for the first time ever when Virat Kohli and Co. defeated the Baggy Greens in the 2018-19 series. Australia were missing the likes of David Warner and Steve Smith and Team India bagged the opportunity with both hands to seal a historic series win. Both Australia and India will once again lock horns in the highly-anticipated four-match Test series later in the year but this time the hosts will be looking for a payback, as per Australian speedster Josh Hazlewood.&nbsp;

The Australian batting line-up was overpowered by the Indian bowling attack with the pacers dominating the series. Hazlewood, in an exclusive interview with WION, said Australia don't like to get dominated on their home soil and want a payback against&nbsp;India. Hazlewood, who picked up 13 wickets in four Tests in the 2018-19 series, further said that India-Australia series has reached a point like the Ashes with two top teams wanting to get the better of their opponents.&nbsp;

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&nbsp;

The addition of Steve Smith, David Warner and the rise of Marnus Labuschagne will add more quality and depth to the Australian squad, said Hazlewood while adding the previous experience of facing this Indian side will also help the team in achieving their goals.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-australias-josh-hazlewood-opens-up-on-england-and-india-series-ipl-2020-injuries-and-more-316469">FULL INTERVIEW |&nbsp;Australia's Josh Hazlewood opens up on England and India series, IPL 2020, injuries and more</a>

<h2>Australia-India series close to the Ashes now: Josh Hazlewood</h2>

“Obviously we have got Steve (Smith) and David (Warner) back and Marnus (Labuschagne) has come leaps and bounds. The bowling attack is similar to what it was but it is the batting which now has a lot more depth and experiences from the last time India toured. India’s bowling attack got us last time and that is what we don’t like to happen on our home soil. So we want to get India in that department. But as you said, everyone is going to watch this series. It has almost reach the point where it has reached a point like the Ashes now. It is a huge series for both teams and we need to give a payback to India after last time,” Hazlewood said.

Cheteshwar Pujara ended up being the nemesis for Australia in the previous tour as he ended up being the highest run-getter (521) while facing a staggering 1258 deliveries. However, Hazlewood is of the view that when a bowler focuses too much on a particular batsman, other quality players can hurt equally bad.

When asked about any specific plan for Pujara this time, Hazlewood said: “(Laughs) Nothing yet. We need to have a few team meetings, bowlers meeting to come up with something. Because obviously, he is a key along with Virat and a few other guys. But if you focus too much on a player then others can hurt you. So the top 6 is always important.”

<img alt="Hazlewood-Pujara" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="eab16b8a-7de7-45f2-9076-51695f2e58fd" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_1BN8JE.jpg" />

<h2>Pink-ball Test a huge positive for Australia: Josh Hazlewood</h2>

Another historic moment of the series will be first-ever pink-ball Test between India and Australia in Adelaide Oval. The Aussies have not lost a single pink-ball Test be it in Adelaide or Bribane and Hazlewood thinks it will be a big positive for them going into the series. Whereas, India thumped Bangladesh in their only pink-ball Test so far. However, he was clear that Australia need to play positive cricket and execute their plans on the day. He added that the Test will be fun as India also have a great pace attack.

“That’s probably huge for us - the pink ball Test. We obviously play a lot more Test in Adelaide. We have got some good experience with the pink ball. That’s probably a big positive for us. But again you have to play good cricket. And we are playing in Brisbane as well. We love playing there. So we have got a few things going are way already. It is about executing on the day as well. Things can move pretty quickly in pink ball Test and India have a great pace attack as well. It’s going to be good fun,” Hazlewood concluded.

<h2>Australia vs India – Four match Test series: Full schedule</h2>

Dec 3-7 - Australia v India 1st Test in Brisbane

Dec 11-15 - Australia v India 2nd Test in Adelaide&nbsp;

Dec 26-30 - Australia v India 3rd Test in Melbourne&nbsp;

Jan 3-7 - Australia v India 4th Test in Sydney 
&nbsp;

<o:p></o:p>

India tasted Test series success on Australian soil for the first time ever when Virat Kohli and Co. defeated the Baggy Greens in the 2018-19 series. Australia were missing the likes of David Warner and Steve Smith and Team India bagged the opportunity with both hands to seal a historic series win.

India tasted Test series success on Australian soil for the first time ever when Virat Kohli and Co. defeated the Baggy Greens in the 2018-19 series. Australia were missing the likes of David Warner and Steve Smith and Team India bagged the opportunity with both hands to seal a historic series win. Both Australia and India will once again lock horns in the highly-anticipated four-match Test series later in the year but this time the hosts will be looking for a payback, as per Australian speedster Josh Hazlewood. The Australian batting line-up was overpowered by the Indian bowling attack with the pacers dominating the series. Hazlewood, in an exclusive interview with WION, said Australia don't like to get dominated on their home soil and want a payback against India. Hazlewood, who picked up 13 wickets in four Tests in the 2018-19 series, further said that India-Australia series has reached a point like the Ashes with two top teams wanting to get the better of their opponents. × The addition of Steve Smith, David Warner and the rise of Marnus Labuschagne will add more quality and depth to the Australian squad, said Hazlewood while adding the previous experience of facing this Indian side will also help the team in achieving their goals. FULL INTERVIEW | Australia's Josh Hazlewood opens up on England and India series, IPL 2020, injuries and more Australia-India series close to the Ashes now: Josh Hazlewood “Obviously we have got Steve (Smith) and David (Warner) back and Marnus (Labuschagne) has come leaps and bounds. The bowling attack is similar to what it was but it is the batting which now has a lot more depth and experiences from the last time India toured. India’s bowling attack got us last time and that is what we don’t like to happen on our home soil. So we want to get India in that department. But as you said, everyone is going to watch this series. It has almost reach the point where it has reached a point like the Ashes now. It is a huge series for both teams and we need to give a payback to India after last time,” Hazlewood said. Cheteshwar Pujara ended up being the nemesis for Australia in the previous tour as he ended up being the highest run-getter (521) while facing a staggering 1258 deliveries. However, Hazlewood is of the view that when a bowler focuses too much on a particular batsman, other quality players can hurt equally bad. When asked about any specific plan for Pujara this time, Hazlewood said: “(Laughs) Nothing yet. We need to have a few team meetings, bowlers meeting to come up with something. Because obviously, he is a key along with Virat and a few other guys. But if you focus too much on a player then others can hurt you. So the top 6 is always important.” Pink-ball Test a huge positive for Australia: Josh Hazlewood Another historic moment of the series will be first-ever pink-ball Test between India and Australia in Adelaide Oval. The Aussies have not lost a single pink-ball Test be it in Adelaide or Bribane and Hazlewood thinks it will be a big positive for them going into the series. Whereas, India thumped Bangladesh in their only pink-ball Test so far. However, he was clear that Australia need to play positive cricket and execute their plans on the day. He added that the Test will be fun as India also have a great pace attack. “That’s probably huge for us - the pink ball Test. We obviously play a lot more Test in Adelaide. We have got some good experience with the pink ball. That’s probably a big positive for us. But again you have to play good cricket. And we are playing in Brisbane as well. We love playing there. So we have got a few things going are way already. It is about executing on the day as well. Things can move pretty quickly in pink ball Test and India have a great pace attack as well. It’s going to be good fun,” Hazlewood concluded. Australia vs India – Four match Test series: Full schedule Dec 3-7 - Australia v India 1st Test in Brisbane Dec 11-15 - Australia v India 2nd Test in Adelaide Dec 26-30 - Australia v India 3rd Test in Melbourne Jan 3-7 - Australia v India 4th Test in Sydney

Exclusive | Australia vs India series close to Ashes: Josh Hazlewood

In the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 auction, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) roped in the ever-reliable Australian pacer Josh Hazlewood for $0.28 million (INR 2 crore) to bolster their pace attack. Although Hazlewood hasn’t played that much of T20 cricket in recent past, the Australian quick has been successful whenever he has turned out for Sydney Sixers in the Big Bash League and for Australia in the shortest format of the game.&nbsp;

Hazlewood, in an exclusive interview with WION, said he is excited to don the CSK yellow and help the team win more trophies while playing under the captaincy of MS Dhoni. Hazlewood was a part of Mumbai Indians squad in 2014 but didn’t get a game under his belt. However, the 29-year-old is now determined to make a mark in T20 format of the game while playing in arguably the best T20 tournament in the world.&nbsp;

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&nbsp;

“I am pretty excited actually. It’s been a while that I have been in the squad. I haven’t played a game yet but I was with Mumbai Indians squad in IPL 2014. I have been using this time – April and May – for rest, preparing for other Test tours for Australia. And now it is a good opportunity to play some T20 cricket and put my name up in that format of the game, in which I haven’t played too much. It is the best T20 competition in the world. So looking forward to it and hopefully to do well for CSK,” Hazlewood told WION.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-australias-josh-hazlewood-opens-up-on-england-and-india-series-ipl-2020-injuries-and-more-316469">FULL INTERVIEW |&nbsp;&nbsp;Australia's Josh Hazlewood opens up on England and India series, IPL 2020, injuries and more</a>

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Jostling into the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AnbuDen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AnbuDen</a> is Big Josh from Oz, who's already used to wearing the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/yellove?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#yellove</a>! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SuperFam?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SuperFam</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SuperAuction?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SuperAuction</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WhistlePodu?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WhistlePodu</a> 🦁💛 <a href="https://t.co/wqaJJEbMpP">pic.twitter.com/wqaJJEbMpP</a>
— Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) <a href="https://twitter.com/ChennaiIPL/status/1207654890392018944?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 19, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Hazlewood, who has 26 wickets in 19 BBL matches for the Sydney Sixers at an impressive strike-rate of 16.4, is now looking at conquering the biggest and most glamourous T20 tournament in the world. Lovingly called Hoff by his teammates, Hazlewood said he is happy that CSK gave him an opportunity and is now looking forward to reward them in IPL 2020. The Aussie quick added that he was ecstatic to be picked by one of the most successful and followed franchise in the world.&nbsp;

“I was ecstatic to be picked up by CSK. Pat was obviously different, and he is pretty excited to be out there and do well for Kolkata. I haven’t played a lot of T20 cricket in the last five years but I am happy CSK gave me an opportunity and hopefully, I can reward them,” Hazlewood said.&nbsp;

Fans are eagerly waiting to see ‘Captain Cool’ MS Dhoni take the field once again in IPL and Hazlewood said he excited to play under Dhoni’s leadership while adding that they both are pretty similar in terms of being calm under pressure.&nbsp;

“Again, I am excited! I think he is a pretty similar player to me – very relaxed and calm – and that’s how I play my best cricket, that’s when I enjoy my cricket. Hopefully, we are a good match,” Hazlewood said.

Although Hazlewood has cemented his legacy as one of the finest red ball bowlers for Australia, many still underrate him in limited-overs format. When asked about how crucial is it for bowlers to work on their variations when it comes to playing the T20 brand of cricket, Hazlewood said that he always looks to improve and develop different kind of deliveries and change-ups while adding he is ready to deliver in the IPL and fulfill the trust shown by the franchise.&nbsp;

“I am always working on different deliveries, different change-ups and slower balls. Hopefully in the next couple of months, I can work on settling in and deliver in the IPL. Under a lot of pressure but it is always good to try things,” said Hazlewood concluded.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the Indian Premier League is set to be staged in the UAE with the tournament all set to start from September 19. &nbsp;

In the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 auction, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) roped in the ever-reliable Australian pacer Josh Hazlewood for $0.28 million (INR 2 crore) to bolster their pace attack.

In the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 auction, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) roped in the ever-reliable Australian pacer Josh Hazlewood for $0.28 million (INR 2 crore) to bolster their pace attack. Although Hazlewood hasn’t played that much of T20 cricket in recent past, the Australian quick has been successful whenever he has turned out for Sydney Sixers in the Big Bash League and for Australia in the shortest format of the game. Hazlewood, in an exclusive interview with WION, said he is excited to don the CSK yellow and help the team win more trophies while playing under the captaincy of MS Dhoni. Hazlewood was a part of Mumbai Indians squad in 2014 but didn’t get a game under his belt. However, the 29-year-old is now determined to make a mark in T20 format of the game while playing in arguably the best T20 tournament in the world. × “I am pretty excited actually. It’s been a while that I have been in the squad. I haven’t played a game yet but I was with Mumbai Indians squad in IPL 2014. I have been using this time – April and May – for rest, preparing for other Test tours for Australia. And now it is a good opportunity to play some T20 cricket and put my name up in that format of the game, in which I haven’t played too much. It is the best T20 competition in the world. So looking forward to it and hopefully to do well for CSK,” Hazlewood told WION. FULL INTERVIEW | Australia's Josh Hazlewood opens up on England and India series, IPL 2020, injuries and more Jostling into the #AnbuDen is Big Josh from Oz, who's already used to wearing the #yellove! #SuperFam #SuperAuction #WhistlePodu 🦁💛 pic.twitter.com/wqaJJEbMpP — Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) December 19, 2019 × Hazlewood, who has 26 wickets in 19 BBL matches for the Sydney Sixers at an impressive strike-rate of 16.4, is now looking at conquering the biggest and most glamourous T20 tournament in the world. Lovingly called Hoff by his teammates, Hazlewood said he is happy that CSK gave him an opportunity and is now looking forward to reward them in IPL 2020. The Aussie quick added that he was ecstatic to be picked by one of the most successful and followed franchise in the world. “I was ecstatic to be picked up by CSK. Pat was obviously different, and he is pretty excited to be out there and do well for Kolkata. I haven’t played a lot of T20 cricket in the last five years but I am happy CSK gave me an opportunity and hopefully, I can reward them,” Hazlewood said. Fans are eagerly waiting to see ‘Captain Cool’ MS Dhoni take the field once again in IPL and Hazlewood said he excited to play under Dhoni’s leadership while adding that they both are pretty similar in terms of being calm under pressure. “Again, I am excited! I think he is a pretty similar player to me – very relaxed and calm – and that’s how I play my best cricket, that’s when I enjoy my cricket. Hopefully, we are a good match,” Hazlewood said. Although Hazlewood has cemented his legacy as one of the finest red ball bowlers for Australia, many still underrate him in limited-overs format. When asked about how crucial is it for bowlers to work on their variations when it comes to playing the T20 brand of cricket, Hazlewood said that he always looks to improve and develop different kind of deliveries and change-ups while adding he is ready to deliver in the IPL and fulfill the trust shown by the franchise. “I am always working on different deliveries, different change-ups and slower balls. Hopefully in the next couple of months, I can work on settling in and deliver in the IPL. Under a lot of pressure but it is always good to try things,” said Hazlewood concluded. Meanwhile, the Indian Premier League is set to be staged in the UAE with the tournament all set to start from September 19.

Exclusive | Excited to play for CSK and under MS Dhoni: Josh Hazlewood

England pacer Stuart Broad on Tuesday joined an elite list of fast bowlers to have scalped 500 Test wickets after the veteran trapped West Indies opener Kraigg Brathwaite in front of the stumps on Day 5 of the third and final Test at the Old Trafford in Manchester.&nbsp;

Broad joined Glenn McGrath, Courtney Walsh and teammate James Anderson in the list of fast bowlers to have picked up 500 Test wickets and became only the seventh bowler to have achieved the elusive feat.

While Broad joined an elusive list, Brathwaite completed a rare double as the Windies batsman became the 500th Test victim of Broad while also being the 500th Test wicket of James Anderson.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-australias-josh-hazlewood-opens-up-on-england-and-india-series-ipl-2020-injuries-and-more-316469" hreflang="en">EXCLUSIVE: Australia's Josh Hazlewood opens up on England and India series, IPL 2020, injuries and more</a>

Broad took 140 Tests to complete join the 500-wicket club with former Sri Lankan spinner Muttiah Muralitharan still the quickets to complete the feat (in 87 Tests).&nbsp;

<h2>The 500-wicket club:</h2>

<ul>
	<li>800 Muttiah Muralitharan (victim: M Kasprowicz)</li>
	<li>708 Shane Warne (victim: H Tillakaratne)</li>
	<li>619 Anil Kumble (victim: S Harmison)</li>
	<li>589 James Anderson (victim: K Brathwaite)</li>
	<li>563 Glenn McGrath (victim: M Trescothick)</li>
	<li>519 Courtney Walsh (victim: J Kallis)</li>
	<li>500 STUART BROAD (victim: K Brathwaite)</li>
</ul>

Broad has completely turned around his career in the last few years with his focus being more on making the batsmen play. The unique trait of taking the ball away from left handers while coming bowling from around the wicket. The Englishman enjoyed a phenomenal outing in the Ashes and has certainly carried his form since then.&nbsp;

He was surprisingly dropped in the first Test against the West Indies in Southampton, which England lost but came back strong in the next two Tests to help England equalize the series and possibly get back the Wisden Trophy.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

England pacer Stuart Broad on Tuesday joined an elite list of fast bowlers to have scalped 500 Test wickets after the veteran trapped West Indies opener Kraigg Brathwaite in front of the stumps on Day 5 of the third and final Test at the Old Trafford in Manchester.

England pacer Stuart Broad on Tuesday joined an elite list of fast bowlers to have scalped 500 Test wickets after the veteran trapped West Indies opener Kraigg Brathwaite in front of the stumps on Day 5 of the third and final Test at the Old Trafford in Manchester. Broad joined Glenn McGrath, Courtney Walsh and teammate James Anderson in the list of fast bowlers to have picked up 500 Test wickets and became only the seventh bowler to have achieved the elusive feat. While Broad joined an elusive list, Brathwaite completed a rare double as the Windies batsman became the 500th Test victim of Broad while also being the 500th Test wicket of James Anderson. ALSO READ: EXCLUSIVE: Australia's Josh Hazlewood opens up on England and India series, IPL 2020, injuries and more Broad took 140 Tests to complete join the 500-wicket club with former Sri Lankan spinner Muttiah Muralitharan still the quickets to complete the feat (in 87 Tests). The 500-wicket club: 800 Muttiah Muralitharan (victim: M Kasprowicz) 708 Shane Warne (victim: H Tillakaratne) 619 Anil Kumble (victim: S Harmison) 589 James Anderson (victim: K Brathwaite) 563 Glenn McGrath (victim: M Trescothick) 519 Courtney Walsh (victim: J Kallis) 500 STUART BROAD (victim: K Brathwaite) Broad has completely turned around his career in the last few years with his focus being more on making the batsmen play. The unique trait of taking the ball away from left handers while coming bowling from around the wicket. The Englishman enjoyed a phenomenal outing in the Ashes and has certainly carried his form since then. He was surprisingly dropped in the first Test against the West Indies in Southampton, which England lost but came back strong in the next two Tests to help England equalize the series and possibly get back the Wisden Trophy.

Stuart Broad joins elite list with 500 Test wickets; Brathwaite completes unique double

Jurgen Klopp was voted the League Managers' Association Manager of the Year on Monday after ending Liverpool's 30-year wait to win the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/premier-league">Premier League</a>.

Klopp led Liverpool to the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/premier-league">Premier League</a> title in the same season they were FIFA Club World champions.

The German's award was announced by former Manchester United boss Alex Ferguson, after whom the trophy is now named.

"Jurgen, fantastic," Ferguson said on Sky Sports. "We speak about Leeds spending 16 years in the Championship, but Liverpool 30 years since winning that league, incredible.

"You thoroughly deserved it. The performance level of your team was outstanding. Your personality runs right throughout the whole club. It was a marvellous performance.

"I'll forgive you for waking me up at 3.30am to tell me you have won the league! Thank you, but anyway, you thoroughly deserved it. Well done."

Former Borussia Dortmund boss Klopp said of Ferguson: "I know it's not 100 percent appropriate as a Liverpool manager but I admire him. I remember he was the first British manager I met.

"We had breakfast. I'm not sure how much he remembers but I remember because for me this moment was like meeting the Pope. It was absolutely great and from that first season we clicked.

"I didn't think at this moment I would have a trophy in my hands named after him."

Chris Wilder, last year's winner of the award, settled for the runner-up spot this time after Sheffield United's impressive first season back in the Premier League.

Meanwhile, Klopp wants to retain a lean squad to ensure Liverpool remain competitive next season.

The Reds boss used 24 players in the Premier League this term.

Klopp gave chances to some of the club's academy players in the FA and League Cups to cope with fixture congestion.

But he believes keeping as small a core as possible keeps the players on their toes.

"The solution cannot be to have a much bigger squad for the specific moment and then realise you cannot use all the players," Klopp said.

"These players can only play the football they play because they know they are needed.

"They are all human beings and nobody can be held back for a year and then on the last day of the year be told, 'Now we need you'.

"In between now and then there must be a lot of training and support and challenges stuff like this.

"The size of the squad is not that important to me, the quality of the squad is very much so."

Jurgen Klopp was voted the League Managers' Association Manager of the Year on Monday after ending Liverpool's 30-year wait to win the Premier League. Klopp led Liverpool to the Premier League title in the same season they were FIFA Club World champions.

Jurgen Klopp was voted the League Managers' Association Manager of the Year on Monday after ending Liverpool's 30-year wait to win the Premier League. Klopp led Liverpool to the Premier League title in the same season they were FIFA Club World champions. The German's award was announced by former Manchester United boss Alex Ferguson, after whom the trophy is now named. "Jurgen, fantastic," Ferguson said on Sky Sports. "We speak about Leeds spending 16 years in the Championship, but Liverpool 30 years since winning that league, incredible. "You thoroughly deserved it. The performance level of your team was outstanding. Your personality runs right throughout the whole club. It was a marvellous performance. "I'll forgive you for waking me up at 3.30am to tell me you have won the league! Thank you, but anyway, you thoroughly deserved it. Well done." Former Borussia Dortmund boss Klopp said of Ferguson: "I know it's not 100 percent appropriate as a Liverpool manager but I admire him. I remember he was the first British manager I met. "We had breakfast. I'm not sure how much he remembers but I remember because for me this moment was like meeting the Pope. It was absolutely great and from that first season we clicked. "I didn't think at this moment I would have a trophy in my hands named after him." Chris Wilder, last year's winner of the award, settled for the runner-up spot this time after Sheffield United's impressive first season back in the Premier League. Meanwhile, Klopp wants to retain a lean squad to ensure Liverpool remain competitive next season. The Reds boss used 24 players in the Premier League this term. Klopp gave chances to some of the club's academy players in the FA and League Cups to cope with fixture congestion. But he believes keeping as small a core as possible keeps the players on their toes. "The solution cannot be to have a much bigger squad for the specific moment and then realise you cannot use all the players," Klopp said. "These players can only play the football they play because they know they are needed. "They are all human beings and nobody can be held back for a year and then on the last day of the year be told, 'Now we need you'. "In between now and then there must be a lot of training and support and challenges stuff like this. "The size of the squad is not that important to me, the quality of the squad is very much so."

Klopp named LMA Manager of the Year

This year's Australian Open Golf Championship was postponed Tuesday because of the coronavirus pandemic but officials said they were hoping to restage the event early in 2021.

Melbourne's Kingston Heath Golf Club had been due to host the 105th edition of the historic championship, the world's fifth oldest professional golf tournament, in November.

But with the country battling a surge in COVID-19 cases and the game's stars facing major tournaments moved to later in 2020, Golf Australia operations manager Simon Brookhouse said they would instead look at a "January to March 2021 window".

The US Masters, originally scheduled for April, will now be played in Augusta from November 12-15.&nbsp;

Coupled with COVID-19 travel restrictions and quarantine measures, that means it would be almost impossible to assemble a world-class field in Melbourne.

"Unfortunately, it is not a simple matter of whether or not we could co-ordinate any international stars to visit," Brookhouse said.

"The uncertainty of the quarantine requirements for any players coming from outside Australia needed to be considered," he said, noting that the restrictions would also impact Australian players currently overseas.

"These are very challenging times for all Australians and the uncertainty the global pandemic has caused makes it very difficult to be definitive in relation to future dates at this time," Brookhouse said.

Australia closed its borders to most international travellers in March to curb the spread of COVID-19, although exceptions have been made for some professional athletes who agree to quarantine for 14 days.

While most of the country has successfully contained the epidemic, Melbourne is struggling to control a second wave of the virus, closing nearly all travel into the city and surrounding Victoria state.

Last year's Australian Open in Sydney was plagued by smoke from unprecedented bushfires. It was won by Australia's Matt Jones.

The postponement means 2020 will be the first year since World War II in which the Australian Open will not be held.&nbsp;

This year's Australian Open Golf Championship was postponed Tuesday because of the coronavirus pandemic but officials said they were hoping to restage the event early in 2021.

This year's Australian Open Golf Championship was postponed Tuesday because of the coronavirus pandemic but officials said they were hoping to restage the event early in 2021. Melbourne's Kingston Heath Golf Club had been due to host the 105th edition of the historic championship, the world's fifth oldest professional golf tournament, in November. But with the country battling a surge in COVID-19 cases and the game's stars facing major tournaments moved to later in 2020, Golf Australia operations manager Simon Brookhouse said they would instead look at a "January to March 2021 window". The US Masters, originally scheduled for April, will now be played in Augusta from November 12-15. Coupled with COVID-19 travel restrictions and quarantine measures, that means it would be almost impossible to assemble a world-class field in Melbourne. "Unfortunately, it is not a simple matter of whether or not we could co-ordinate any international stars to visit," Brookhouse said. "The uncertainty of the quarantine requirements for any players coming from outside Australia needed to be considered," he said, noting that the restrictions would also impact Australian players currently overseas. "These are very challenging times for all Australians and the uncertainty the global pandemic has caused makes it very difficult to be definitive in relation to future dates at this time," Brookhouse said. Australia closed its borders to most international travellers in March to curb the spread of COVID-19, although exceptions have been made for some professional athletes who agree to quarantine for 14 days. While most of the country has successfully contained the epidemic, Melbourne is struggling to control a second wave of the virus, closing nearly all travel into the city and surrounding Victoria state. Last year's Australian Open in Sydney was plagued by smoke from unprecedented bushfires. It was won by Australia's Matt Jones. The postponement means 2020 will be the first year since World War II in which the Australian Open will not be held.

Golf's 2020 Australian Open postponed because of coronavirus

The WTA Pan Pacific Open in Japan, one of Asia's top women's tennis tournaments, has been scrapped for the first time because of the coronavirus, organisers said Tuesday.

The cancellation of the event, which was scheduled for November and was won by Japan's Naomi Osaka last year, follows last week's axing of all international tennis tournaments in China for 2020.

The Pan Pacific's demise ends a continuous run for the tournament since 1984 and leaves Asia with only one Women's Tennis Association event, October's Korea Open, on this year's coronavirus-wrecked schedule.

It is also another blow for sport in Japan after the Tokyo Olympics, originally due to start last week, were postponed for a year over COVID-19.

"We were trying to find ways (to hold the Pan Pacific Open), such as having no audience or limiting the number of spectators," organisers said in a statement.

"But we reached the tough conclusion that we have to cancel the tournament given the difficulty of ensuring the safety" of all involved, they added.

The tournament had already been postponed from September to November, with organisers hoping the delay would allow them to hold the event.&nbsp;

Last year's Pan Pacific Open drew outsize attention in Japan thanks to hometown hero Osaka, who became the first Japanese player to win the tournament since Kimiko Date in 1995.

Her victory was all the sweeter for occurring in the city of Osaka, where the charismatic star was born.

The Pan Pacific Open is only the latest sports event to fall by the wayside as the coronavirus pandemic continues to rage.

Last week, the ATP and WTA announced all international tennis tournaments in China, including the Shanghai Masters and WTA Finals, would be cancelled because of the virus.

The move came after China said it would not stage most international sports events for the rest of 2020, in a bid to keep the pandemic in check.

The global tennis season has been at a standstill since mid-March due to the virus outbreak worldwide, and is struggling to restart.

The Cincinnati Open and US Open are still scheduled to take place back-to-back in New York from August 20, despite several leading figures in men's tennis casting doubts over the hardcourt Grand Slam.

The WTA tour is scheduled to restart on August 3 in Palermo, Italy, making it the first event on the reshuffled calendar.&nbsp;

Organisers of the Korea Open, Asia's last remaining tournament on this year's WTA calendar, told AFP they were "monitoring the situation" but had not made any decision to cancel.

The WTA Pan Pacific Open in Japan, one of Asia's top women's tennis tournaments, has been scrapped for the first time because of the coronavirus, organisers said Tuesday.

The WTA Pan Pacific Open in Japan, one of Asia's top women's tennis tournaments, has been scrapped for the first time because of the coronavirus, organisers said Tuesday. The cancellation of the event, which was scheduled for November and was won by Japan's Naomi Osaka last year, follows last week's axing of all international tennis tournaments in China for 2020. The Pan Pacific's demise ends a continuous run for the tournament since 1984 and leaves Asia with only one Women's Tennis Association event, October's Korea Open, on this year's coronavirus-wrecked schedule. It is also another blow for sport in Japan after the Tokyo Olympics, originally due to start last week, were postponed for a year over COVID-19. "We were trying to find ways (to hold the Pan Pacific Open), such as having no audience or limiting the number of spectators," organisers said in a statement. "But we reached the tough conclusion that we have to cancel the tournament given the difficulty of ensuring the safety" of all involved, they added. The tournament had already been postponed from September to November, with organisers hoping the delay would allow them to hold the event. Last year's Pan Pacific Open drew outsize attention in Japan thanks to hometown hero Osaka, who became the first Japanese player to win the tournament since Kimiko Date in 1995. Her victory was all the sweeter for occurring in the city of Osaka, where the charismatic star was born. The Pan Pacific Open is only the latest sports event to fall by the wayside as the coronavirus pandemic continues to rage. Last week, the ATP and WTA announced all international tennis tournaments in China, including the Shanghai Masters and WTA Finals, would be cancelled because of the virus. The move came after China said it would not stage most international sports events for the rest of 2020, in a bid to keep the pandemic in check. The global tennis season has been at a standstill since mid-March due to the virus outbreak worldwide, and is struggling to restart. The Cincinnati Open and US Open are still scheduled to take place back-to-back in New York from August 20, despite several leading figures in men's tennis casting doubts over the hardcourt Grand Slam. The WTA tour is scheduled to restart on August 3 in Palermo, Italy, making it the first event on the reshuffled calendar. Organisers of the Korea Open, Asia's last remaining tournament on this year's WTA calendar, told AFP they were "monitoring the situation" but had not made any decision to cancel.

Japan's WTA Pan Pacific Open tennis scrapped over coronavirus

Australia opening batsman David Warner raised fears Tuesday that Virat Kohli's India will be unable to play the Boxing Day Test in Melbourne as COVID-19 cases continue to spike in Australia's second largest city.

The match starting on December 26 is regarded as the highlight of Australia's home season, played before 100,000 fans at the Melbourne Cricket Ground and huge television audiences.

But Warner said shifting venues was a real possibility, with Melbourne currently in partial lockdown as Victoria state struggles to contain a second wave of virus infections.

"It's out of our control at the moment. Whatever happens, if you put something in place now, it's going to change tomorrow," he said.&nbsp;

"It's difficult to process. We're just going to have to wait and, yeah, you might see the first Boxing Day Test not in Melbourne."

His remarks came as authorities in Victoria on Tuesday said there were 384 new cases in the state, taking total active cases to more than 9,000.

Australia opening batsman David Warner raised fears Tuesday that Virat Kohli's India will be unable to play the Boxing Day Test in Melbourne as COVID-19 cases continue to spike in Australia's second largest city.

Australia opening batsman David Warner raised fears Tuesday that Virat Kohli's India will be unable to play the Boxing Day Test in Melbourne as COVID-19 cases continue to spike in Australia's second largest city. The match starting on December 26 is regarded as the highlight of Australia's home season, played before 100,000 fans at the Melbourne Cricket Ground and huge television audiences. But Warner said shifting venues was a real possibility, with Melbourne currently in partial lockdown as Victoria state struggles to contain a second wave of virus infections. "It's out of our control at the moment. Whatever happens, if you put something in place now, it's going to change tomorrow," he said. "It's difficult to process. We're just going to have to wait and, yeah, you might see the first Boxing Day Test not in Melbourne." His remarks came as authorities in Victoria on Tuesday said there were 384 new cases in the state, taking total active cases to more than 9,000.

Warner fears virus could scupper Melbourne Boxing Day Test

Liverpool turned the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/premier-league">Premier League</a> title race into a procession this season, but Jurgen Klopp expects his champions to face a much tougher fight to retain the trophy next term.

Klopp's side powered to their first English title for 30 years with a dominant campaign that left their rivals trailing in their wake.

Liverpool wrapped up the silverware with a record seven games remaining and finished the season 18 points ahead of second-placed Manchester City.

The Reds' remarkable run forced City to surrender the title they had won for the last two years, with Pep Guardiola's team unable to muster the consistency required to keep pace.

With Liverpool having also won the Champions League in the 2018-19 season and the Club World Cup in December, some pundits believe the Anfield club are primed for a golden era of dominance.

All the pieces are in place for Liverpool to win consecutive titles for the first time since 1984, with Klopp signed to a long-term contract and key stars Virgil van Dijk, Sadio Mane, Mohamed Salah and Jordan Henderson all in their primes.

Liverpool also have a cadre of emerging youngsters capable of bolstering Klopp's squad next season.

But the German insists Liverpool will take nothing for granted when the 2020-21 campaign kicks off because he expects a renewed push from City and stronger challenges from Manchester United and Chelsea.

"Whatever people say, it will not be important for next season because for sure we both have to be ready," Klopp said.

"We see United coming up. People thought they had no chance but we see with one or two players how good they are and how good they can be, and for sure they will not be worse next season, and now there is Chelsea as well.

"It will not be about City and us. For the last two years pretty much the top of the table was City and us, and City for four or five years before that."

City clearly have the pedigree to take back the title.

They set a 100-point Premier League record total in 2018 that Liverpool were unable to match this season and pipped Klopp's men to the title again in 2019.

Guardiola's side could yet underline their enduring class by ending the campaign as Champions League winners.

&nbsp;

<h2>- 'Anyone can beat you' -</h2>

&nbsp;

City were undeniably inconsistent this season, with defensive frailties exposed after failing to replace Vincent Kompany and losing Aymeric Laporte to injury for long periods.

Long-serving Spanish midfielder David Silva will leave this summer, but Phil Foden's development gives Guardiola a potential replacement.

Klopp does not expect a drop-off from City, who made a point about their ability to compete with Liverpool when they crushed them 4-0 in the Reds' first game after clinching the title.

"I am very positive about my team but I cannot deny Manchester City are really good. That was always the case, and I cannot see the end of anything for Manchester City," he said.

FA Cup finalists Chelsea, who ended fourth, must improve a creaky defence and a costly lack of killer instinct if they are to close the 33-point gap to Liverpool.

Frank Lampard's emerging young side have potential however and the additions of Timo Werner and Hakim Ziyech should add potency to their attack.

"Chelsea have incredible guys there in the squad and extra now with (new signings) Hakim Ziyech and (Timo) Werner," Guardiola said.

Third-placed United, who finished 15 points behind City, have improved dramatically since the January signing of Portugal playmaker Bruno Fernandes from Sporting Lisbon.

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer can also deploy a lethal front three in Marcus Rashford, Anthony Martial and Mason Greenwood.

"That is why it is the best league in the world. Anyone can beat you and every season will be stronger," Guardiola said.

"That is the reality of the Premier League. We are going to think about what we need to do to improve the team."

Liverpool turned the Premier League title race into a procession this season, but Jurgen Klopp expects his champions to face a much tougher fight to retain the trophy next term.

Liverpool turned the Premier League title race into a procession this season, but Jurgen Klopp expects his champions to face a much tougher fight to retain the trophy next term. Klopp's side powered to their first English title for 30 years with a dominant campaign that left their rivals trailing in their wake. Liverpool wrapped up the silverware with a record seven games remaining and finished the season 18 points ahead of second-placed Manchester City. The Reds' remarkable run forced City to surrender the title they had won for the last two years, with Pep Guardiola's team unable to muster the consistency required to keep pace. With Liverpool having also won the Champions League in the 2018-19 season and the Club World Cup in December, some pundits believe the Anfield club are primed for a golden era of dominance. All the pieces are in place for Liverpool to win consecutive titles for the first time since 1984, with Klopp signed to a long-term contract and key stars Virgil van Dijk, Sadio Mane, Mohamed Salah and Jordan Henderson all in their primes. Liverpool also have a cadre of emerging youngsters capable of bolstering Klopp's squad next season. But the German insists Liverpool will take nothing for granted when the 2020-21 campaign kicks off because he expects a renewed push from City and stronger challenges from Manchester United and Chelsea. "Whatever people say, it will not be important for next season because for sure we both have to be ready," Klopp said. "We see United coming up. People thought they had no chance but we see with one or two players how good they are and how good they can be, and for sure they will not be worse next season, and now there is Chelsea as well. "It will not be about City and us. For the last two years pretty much the top of the table was City and us, and City for four or five years before that." City clearly have the pedigree to take back the title. They set a 100-point Premier League record total in 2018 that Liverpool were unable to match this season and pipped Klopp's men to the title again in 2019. Guardiola's side could yet underline their enduring class by ending the campaign as Champions League winners. - 'Anyone can beat you' - City were undeniably inconsistent this season, with defensive frailties exposed after failing to replace Vincent Kompany and losing Aymeric Laporte to injury for long periods. Long-serving Spanish midfielder David Silva will leave this summer, but Phil Foden's development gives Guardiola a potential replacement. Klopp does not expect a drop-off from City, who made a point about their ability to compete with Liverpool when they crushed them 4-0 in the Reds' first game after clinching the title. "I am very positive about my team but I cannot deny Manchester City are really good. That was always the case, and I cannot see the end of anything for Manchester City," he said. FA Cup finalists Chelsea, who ended fourth, must improve a creaky defence and a costly lack of killer instinct if they are to close the 33-point gap to Liverpool. Frank Lampard's emerging young side have potential however and the additions of Timo Werner and Hakim Ziyech should add potency to their attack. "Chelsea have incredible guys there in the squad and extra now with (new signings) Hakim Ziyech and (Timo) Werner," Guardiola said. Third-placed United, who finished 15 points behind City, have improved dramatically since the January signing of Portugal playmaker Bruno Fernandes from Sporting Lisbon. Ole Gunnar Solskjaer can also deploy a lethal front three in Marcus Rashford, Anthony Martial and Mason Greenwood. "That is why it is the best league in the world. Anyone can beat you and every season will be stronger," Guardiola said. "That is the reality of the Premier League. We are going to think about what we need to do to improve the team."

Klopp expects Liverpool to face tougher title fight next term

Stuart Broad was only one wicket away from becoming just the seventh bowler to take 500 Test wickets as England closed in on a series victory over the West Indies at Old Trafford on Sunday.

Broad's haul of 6-31 in 14 overs saw the West Indies bundled out for 197 in reply to England's first-innings 369 that featured his dashing 62.

England's second-innings 226-2 declared saw opener Rory Burns make 90 as the West Indies were set a huge target of 399 for victory.

And there was still time for Broad to reduce the tourists, who had no answer to his late movement off a good length, to 10-2 at stumps on the third day.

Broad had the struggling John Campbell caught at first slip for a duck by England captain Joe Root and then moved to 499 Test wickets when nightwatchman Kemar Roach was caught behind.

Broad bowled the final over of the day's play, with his last ball just missing Shai Hope's outside edge.

The only bowlers with more than 600 Test wickets are a trio of former spinners -- Sri Lanka's Muttiah Muralitharan (800), Australian Shane Warne (708) and India's Anil Kumble (619).

The only seamers ahead of Broad are his longtime England new-ball colleague James Anderson (589) and the retired pair of Australia's Glenn McGrath (563) and the West Indies' Courtney Walsh (519).

<h2>- 'Ridiculous achievement' -</h2>

Broad took all the West Indies wickets to fall on Sunday in a combined return of 6-22 in seven overs, with his burst of 4-11 in 22 balls ending the visitors' first innings after they had avoided the follow-on.

"It's a pretty ridiculous achievement to get to 500 (wickets)," said Burns. "Hopefully we can keep grabbing them for him."

England's second innings saw Burns and Dom Sibley (56) share a stand of 114 -- England's first century opening partnership in a home Test since Alastair Cook and Alex Hales put on 126 against Pakistan at Edgbaston in 2016.

England captain Joe Root had made a brisk 68 not out when he declared, amid concerns Monday's play could be washed out.

Burns, in common with Surrey team-mate Ollie Pope in England's first innings, got into the 90s without making it to three figures.

Not that the left-hander, who holed out against off-spinner Roston Chase, was too concerned.

"It was good to set up the team in a good position though, that was the most important thing."

West Indies coach Phil Simmons once again bemoaned the failure of his team's batsmen to back up the bowlers in a gruelling schedule of three back-to-back Tests that marks international cricket's return from the coronavirus lockdown.

"We haven't had any centuries in the series," he said. "There are two days left to bat and someone needs to get themselves a big hundred."

"There is plenty of time in the game so we need to be more determined to get big scores."

<h2>- Dowrich injury -</h2>

West Indies wicketkeeper Shane Dowrich was hit in the face by a 90mph Shannon Gabriel delivery that burst through his gloves and had to leave the field.

"He was lucky it came off the gloves first," said Simmons. "He has a little cut on the inside of his lip, but no damage to his teeth."

One-day international wicketkeeper Hope initially took over behind the stumps before Joshua Da Silva, the back-up gloveman in the Test squad but not in the XI for this match, was allowed on.

Da Silva nearly stumped Burns, on 12, off Chase but slipped as he tried to take off the bails.

Stuart Broad was only one wicket away from becoming just the seventh bowler to take 500 Test wickets as England closed in on a series victory over the West Indies at Old Trafford on Sunday.

Stuart Broad was only one wicket away from becoming just the seventh bowler to take 500 Test wickets as England closed in on a series victory over the West Indies at Old Trafford on Sunday. Broad's haul of 6-31 in 14 overs saw the West Indies bundled out for 197 in reply to England's first-innings 369 that featured his dashing 62. England's second-innings 226-2 declared saw opener Rory Burns make 90 as the West Indies were set a huge target of 399 for victory. And there was still time for Broad to reduce the tourists, who had no answer to his late movement off a good length, to 10-2 at stumps on the third day. Broad had the struggling John Campbell caught at first slip for a duck by England captain Joe Root and then moved to 499 Test wickets when nightwatchman Kemar Roach was caught behind. Broad bowled the final over of the day's play, with his last ball just missing Shai Hope's outside edge. The only bowlers with more than 600 Test wickets are a trio of former spinners -- Sri Lanka's Muttiah Muralitharan (800), Australian Shane Warne (708) and India's Anil Kumble (619). The only seamers ahead of Broad are his longtime England new-ball colleague James Anderson (589) and the retired pair of Australia's Glenn McGrath (563) and the West Indies' Courtney Walsh (519). - 'Ridiculous achievement' - Broad took all the West Indies wickets to fall on Sunday in a combined return of 6-22 in seven overs, with his burst of 4-11 in 22 balls ending the visitors' first innings after they had avoided the follow-on. "It's a pretty ridiculous achievement to get to 500 (wickets)," said Burns. "Hopefully we can keep grabbing them for him." England's second innings saw Burns and Dom Sibley (56) share a stand of 114 -- England's first century opening partnership in a home Test since Alastair Cook and Alex Hales put on 126 against Pakistan at Edgbaston in 2016. England captain Joe Root had made a brisk 68 not out when he declared, amid concerns Monday's play could be washed out. Burns, in common with Surrey team-mate Ollie Pope in England's first innings, got into the 90s without making it to three figures. Not that the left-hander, who holed out against off-spinner Roston Chase, was too concerned. "It was good to set up the team in a good position though, that was the most important thing." West Indies coach Phil Simmons once again bemoaned the failure of his team's batsmen to back up the bowlers in a gruelling schedule of three back-to-back Tests that marks international cricket's return from the coronavirus lockdown. "We haven't had any centuries in the series," he said. "There are two days left to bat and someone needs to get themselves a big hundred." "There is plenty of time in the game so we need to be more determined to get big scores." - Dowrich injury - West Indies wicketkeeper Shane Dowrich was hit in the face by a 90mph Shannon Gabriel delivery that burst through his gloves and had to leave the field. "He was lucky it came off the gloves first," said Simmons. "He has a little cut on the inside of his lip, but no damage to his teeth." One-day international wicketkeeper Hope initially took over behind the stumps before Joshua Da Silva, the back-up gloveman in the Test squad but not in the XI for this match, was allowed on. Da Silva nearly stumped Burns, on 12, off Chase but slipped as he tried to take off the bails.

Stuart Broad on brink of 500 club as England eye West Indies series win

The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Monday&nbsp;officially launched the inaugural ICC Men's Cricket World Cup Super League. Getting underway on 30 July 2020 in Southampton, the Super League will begin with a series between world champions England and Ireland.

Introduced to bring context to One-Day International (ODI) cricket, the Super League will determine qualification for the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023 with the top seven teams automatically booking their spot at the event in India.

Featuring 13 teams, the 12 ICC Full Members and the Netherlands, who qualified by winning the ICC World Cricket Super League 2015-17, the Super League will see each side play four home and four away three match series.

Commenting on the launch,&nbsp;Geoff&nbsp;Allardice, ICC General Manager - Cricket Operations, said,&nbsp;“We are delighted to get the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup Super League underway with World Cup winners England against Ireland.

“The league will bring relevance and context to ODI cricket over the next three years, as qualification for the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023 is at stake. The Super League gives cricket fans around the world even more reasons to watch as the drama of league cricket unfolds.”

“The decision last week to move the World Cup back to late 2023 gives us more time to schedule any games lost due to COVID-19 and preserve the integrity of the qualification process, meaning it will be decided on the field of play, which is important.”

Eoin Morgan, England captain, said:&nbsp;“We’re looking forward to playing cricket again and to the ICC Men’s World Cup Super League. Given the situation, it will be quite different to the last time we played at home, when we lifted the World Cup at Lord’s, but it’s nice to be starting our journey for the next edition of the tournament.

“I’m sure cricket fans all over the world will be excited to see white-ball cricket resume and we’re looking forward to the challenge. 
 
“Ireland are a talented team who have shown over the years that they can beat the best on their day. We look forward to what promises to be an interesting series.”

Andrew Balbirnie, Ireland captain, said:&nbsp;“It’s a privilege to be playing in the inaugural series of the ICC Men’s World Cup Super League. It is obviously going to be a huge challenge taking on the team that won the World Cup just a year ago but we have prepared well and have taken confidence from our form over the early months of 2020.” 
 
“What is important is that we are getting back on the field. I hope international cricket’s return is steady during these challenging times. 
 
“I look forward to the Irish side putting on a good performance in the upcoming series as we start our campaign for World Cup qualification.”

The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Monday officially launched the inaugural ICC Men's Cricket World Cup Super League. Getting underway on 30 July 2020 in Southampton, the Super League will begin with a series between world champions England and Ireland.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Monday officially launched the inaugural ICC Men's Cricket World Cup Super League. Getting underway on 30 July 2020 in Southampton, the Super League will begin with a series between world champions England and Ireland. Introduced to bring context to One-Day International (ODI) cricket, the Super League will determine qualification for the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023 with the top seven teams automatically booking their spot at the event in India. Featuring 13 teams, the 12 ICC Full Members and the Netherlands, who qualified by winning the ICC World Cricket Super League 2015-17, the Super League will see each side play four home and four away three match series. Commenting on the launch, Geoff Allardice, ICC General Manager - Cricket Operations, said, “We are delighted to get the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup Super League underway with World Cup winners England against Ireland. “The league will bring relevance and context to ODI cricket over the next three years, as qualification for the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023 is at stake. The Super League gives cricket fans around the world even more reasons to watch as the drama of league cricket unfolds.” “The decision last week to move the World Cup back to late 2023 gives us more time to schedule any games lost due to COVID-19 and preserve the integrity of the qualification process, meaning it will be decided on the field of play, which is important.” Eoin Morgan, England captain, said: “We’re looking forward to playing cricket again and to the ICC Men’s World Cup Super League. Given the situation, it will be quite different to the last time we played at home, when we lifted the World Cup at Lord’s, but it’s nice to be starting our journey for the next edition of the tournament. “I’m sure cricket fans all over the world will be excited to see white-ball cricket resume and we’re looking forward to the challenge. “Ireland are a talented team who have shown over the years that they can beat the best on their day. We look forward to what promises to be an interesting series.” Andrew Balbirnie, Ireland captain, said: “It’s a privilege to be playing in the inaugural series of the ICC Men’s World Cup Super League. It is obviously going to be a huge challenge taking on the team that won the World Cup just a year ago but we have prepared well and have taken confidence from our form over the early months of 2020.” “What is important is that we are getting back on the field. I hope international cricket’s return is steady during these challenging times. “I look forward to the Irish side putting on a good performance in the upcoming series as we start our campaign for World Cup qualification.”

ICC launches Men's Cricket World Cup Super League

Manchester United and Chelsea sealed Champions League places on Sunday as Bournemouth and Watford fell through the trapdoor on a dramatic final day of the longest <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/premier-league">Premier League</a> season.

Liverpool were crowned champions last month but there was much to play for in the final 90 minutes of a campaign that started on August 9 last year and was interrupted by a three-month coronavirus shutdown.

United finished third after a nervy 2-0 win in a Champions League shootout against Leicester, while Chelsea ended in fourth spot after beating Wolves by the same scoreline at Stamford Bridge.

At the other end of the table, Bournemouth and managerless Watford followed already-relegated Norwich down to the Championship while Aston Villa fans breathed a huge sigh of relief.

Leicester, in fifth spot, will play in the Europa League next season where they will be joined by Tottenham, who drew 1-1 with Crystal Palace to leapfrog Wolves.

Wolves still have two routes to qualify for European competition next season -- either into the Champions League by winning the Europa League next month or into the Europa League if Chelsea beat Arsenal in next week's FA Cup final.

<h2>- Chelsea come good -</h2>

&nbsp;

Chelsea required just a draw at Stamford Bridge to seal their place in the top four, but won all three points in first half stoppage time as Mason Mount whipped in from a free-kick before Olivier Giroud slid home.

A top-four finish and a Cup final in his first season in charge is a coup for Frank Lampard, who had to cope with a transfer ban and the loss of Eden Hazard to Real Madrid last summer.

"There were a lot of unknowns when I came in, could we move forward without Eden Hazard?" Lampard told Sky Sports.&nbsp;

"We knew we had lost a massive player. We've a real spirit within the group now and it's a real team effort now.

"Myself and the staff want to improve every time -- the challenge now is to see what more we can do next season."

United, whose form has dipped in recent weeks after they pulled themselves back into contention for the Champions League, were locked at 0-0 at half-time at the King Power Stadium.

But they finally broke the deadlock in the 71st minute, when Bruno Fernandes scored from the penalty spot after&nbsp;Anthony Martial was upended. Jesse Lingard scored late to seal the win.

The result is a huge lift for Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, whose team were 14 points behind the Foxes at the start of the year, but is a bitter blow for Brendan Rodgers, whose side have been camped in the top four for almost the entire campaign.

"I'm delighted," said Solskjaer. "We've come from way, way behind teams and gone past them. We've shown that we've got the consistency, the right mentality. We're building a group and a performance culture here that we can be proud of."

<h2>- 'Incredibly painful' -</h2>

&nbsp;

Two goals from Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and a strike by Kieran Tierney gave Watford, who sacked Nigel Pearson earlier this month, an almost impossible task at Arsenal.

A Troy Deeney penalty and a Danny Welbeck strike gave them hope but it was not enough and the Hornets were relegated after five years in the top-flight following their 3-2 defeat.&nbsp;

"This is a reflection of the whole year," Deeney told Sky Sports. "Not quite been good enough. Heartbreaking for the people who work behind the scenes and we feel sorry for them."

Bournemouth beat Everton 3-1 at Goodison Park but needed&nbsp;West Ham to beat Aston Villa to survive.

Andriy Yarmolenko equalised after Jack Grealish's late goal for Villa but the away side held on, sending Eddie Howe's side down after five seasons in the Premier League.

"It's incredibly painful -- we always believed we were capable of a last-minute escape," Bournemouth boss Eddie Howe told the BBC.

An early goal by Harry Kane put Tottenham in front against Crystal Palace. Palace equalised early in the second half through Jeffrey Schlupp but the point was enough for Jose Mourinho's men to finish in sixth position.

Liverpool beat Newcastle 3-1 to finish the season on 99 points -- the second-highest tally in English top-flight history behind only Manchester City's 100 points in 2017/18.

Second-placed City finished the campaign with a flourish, thumping Norwich 5-0 to reach 102 goals with Kevin De Bruyne scoring twice and matching Thierry Henry's record of 20 assists in a Premier League season.

Elsewhere, Brighton beat Burnley 2-1 and Southampton beat Sheffield United 3-1.

Leicester's Jamie Vardy won the Golden Boot with 23 goals, one clear of Aubameyang and Southampton's Danny Ings.

Manchester United and Chelsea sealed Champions League places on Sunday as Bournemouth and Watford fell through the trapdoor on a dramatic final day of the longest Premier League season.

Manchester United and Chelsea sealed Champions League places on Sunday as Bournemouth and Watford fell through the trapdoor on a dramatic final day of the longest Premier League season. Liverpool were crowned champions last month but there was much to play for in the final 90 minutes of a campaign that started on August 9 last year and was interrupted by a three-month coronavirus shutdown. United finished third after a nervy 2-0 win in a Champions League shootout against Leicester, while Chelsea ended in fourth spot after beating Wolves by the same scoreline at Stamford Bridge. At the other end of the table, Bournemouth and managerless Watford followed already-relegated Norwich down to the Championship while Aston Villa fans breathed a huge sigh of relief. Leicester, in fifth spot, will play in the Europa League next season where they will be joined by Tottenham, who drew 1-1 with Crystal Palace to leapfrog Wolves. Wolves still have two routes to qualify for European competition next season -- either into the Champions League by winning the Europa League next month or into the Europa League if Chelsea beat Arsenal in next week's FA Cup final. - Chelsea come good - Chelsea required just a draw at Stamford Bridge to seal their place in the top four, but won all three points in first half stoppage time as Mason Mount whipped in from a free-kick before Olivier Giroud slid home. A top-four finish and a Cup final in his first season in charge is a coup for Frank Lampard, who had to cope with a transfer ban and the loss of Eden Hazard to Real Madrid last summer. "There were a lot of unknowns when I came in, could we move forward without Eden Hazard?" Lampard told Sky Sports. "We knew we had lost a massive player. We've a real spirit within the group now and it's a real team effort now. "Myself and the staff want to improve every time -- the challenge now is to see what more we can do next season." United, whose form has dipped in recent weeks after they pulled themselves back into contention for the Champions League, were locked at 0-0 at half-time at the King Power Stadium. But they finally broke the deadlock in the 71st minute, when Bruno Fernandes scored from the penalty spot after Anthony Martial was upended. Jesse Lingard scored late to seal the win. The result is a huge lift for Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, whose team were 14 points behind the Foxes at the start of the year, but is a bitter blow for Brendan Rodgers, whose side have been camped in the top four for almost the entire campaign. "I'm delighted," said Solskjaer. "We've come from way, way behind teams and gone past them. We've shown that we've got the consistency, the right mentality. We're building a group and a performance culture here that we can be proud of." - 'Incredibly painful' - Two goals from Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and a strike by Kieran Tierney gave Watford, who sacked Nigel Pearson earlier this month, an almost impossible task at Arsenal. A Troy Deeney penalty and a Danny Welbeck strike gave them hope but it was not enough and the Hornets were relegated after five years in the top-flight following their 3-2 defeat. "This is a reflection of the whole year," Deeney told Sky Sports. "Not quite been good enough. Heartbreaking for the people who work behind the scenes and we feel sorry for them." Bournemouth beat Everton 3-1 at Goodison Park but needed West Ham to beat Aston Villa to survive. Andriy Yarmolenko equalised after Jack Grealish's late goal for Villa but the away side held on, sending Eddie Howe's side down after five seasons in the Premier League. "It's incredibly painful -- we always believed we were capable of a last-minute escape," Bournemouth boss Eddie Howe told the BBC. An early goal by Harry Kane put Tottenham in front against Crystal Palace. Palace equalised early in the second half through Jeffrey Schlupp but the point was enough for Jose Mourinho's men to finish in sixth position. Liverpool beat Newcastle 3-1 to finish the season on 99 points -- the second-highest tally in English top-flight history behind only Manchester City's 100 points in 2017/18. Second-placed City finished the campaign with a flourish, thumping Norwich 5-0 to reach 102 goals with Kevin De Bruyne scoring twice and matching Thierry Henry's record of 20 assists in a Premier League season. Elsewhere, Brighton beat Burnley 2-1 and Southampton beat Sheffield United 3-1. Leicester's Jamie Vardy won the Golden Boot with 23 goals, one clear of Aubameyang and Southampton's Danny Ings.

Man Utd, Chelsea seal top-four spots as Watford, Bournemouth relegated

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