Mumbai Indians team-mates Jasprit Bumrah and Trent Boult would be up against each other in the final of ICC World Test Championship, which will be played between India and New Zealand in Southampton from June 18. Former England captain Michael Vaughan has weighed his opinion on who is the better bowler between Boult and Bumrah as the cricketing world gears up for the biggest spectacle in Test cricket.<o:p></o:p>

Opining on the matter, Vaughan picked Boult while citing longevity but said that picking between the two players is a very close task.<o:p></o:p>

When asked who is the better bowler between Boult and Bumrah, Vaughan played it safe as he said: “Bumrah or Boult… I can’t decide. I’m going to sit on the fence probably for the first time in my life. I would say Boult because he’s been doing it for longer, but Bumrah is incredible and a brilliantly skilled bowler, bowled so well in England a couple of years ago. So I think it’s very, very close,” Vaughan told Spark Sport.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-kkrs-pat-cummins-to-miss-remainder-of-ipl-2021-in-uae-report-388392" hreflang="en">Cricket: KKR's Pat Cummins to miss remainder of IPL 2021 in UAE - Report</a><o:p></o:p>

Earlier, Vaughan had said that Kane Williamson is equally good batsman as Virat Kohli as he added that the Indian skipper is regarded as the best because of his massive popularity on social media.<o:p></o:p>

Meanwhile, New Zealand will gear up for the WTC final with a two-Test series against England and it will give them the best chance to prepare for the summit clash against India while getting accustomed to the conditions.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-world-test-championship-final-is-like-world-cup-final-for-me-neil-wagner-388373" hreflang="en">Cricket: World Test Championship final is like World Cup final for me: Neil Wagner</a><o:p></o:p>

Whereas, India will fly out to England on June 2 and will undergo quarantine upon their arrival. However, the Indian team has been high on confidence when it comes to the longest format of the game following their away success against Australia and home series win against England.<o:p></o:p>

Mumbai Indians team-mates Jasprit Bumrah and Trent Boult would be up against each other in the final of ICC World Test Championship, which will be played between India and New Zealand in Southampton from June 18.

Mumbai Indians team-mates Jasprit Bumrah and Trent Boult would be up against each other in the final of ICC World Test Championship, which will be played between India and New Zealand in Southampton from June 18. Former England captain Michael Vaughan has weighed his opinion on who is the better bowler between Boult and Bumrah as the cricketing world gears up for the biggest spectacle in Test cricket. Opining on the matter, Vaughan picked Boult while citing longevity but said that picking between the two players is a very close task. When asked who is the better bowler between Boult and Bumrah, Vaughan played it safe as he said: “Bumrah or Boult… I can’t decide. I’m going to sit on the fence probably for the first time in my life. I would say Boult because he’s been doing it for longer, but Bumrah is incredible and a brilliantly skilled bowler, bowled so well in England a couple of years ago. So I think it’s very, very close,” Vaughan told Spark Sport. ALSO READ: Cricket: KKR's Pat Cummins to miss remainder of IPL 2021 in UAE - Report Earlier, Vaughan had said that Kane Williamson is equally good batsman as Virat Kohli as he added that the Indian skipper is regarded as the best because of his massive popularity on social media. Meanwhile, New Zealand will gear up for the WTC final with a two-Test series against England and it will give them the best chance to prepare for the summit clash against India while getting accustomed to the conditions. ALSO READ: Cricket: World Test Championship final is like World Cup final for me: Neil Wagner Whereas, India will fly out to England on June 2 and will undergo quarantine upon their arrival. However, the Indian team has been high on confidence when it comes to the longest format of the game following their away success against Australia and home series win against England.

Cricket: Jasprit Bumrah vs Trent Boult - Michael Vaughan picks the better pacer ahead of WTC final

Manchester City and Belgium midfielder Kevin de Bruyne has revealed the extent of his injury picked up during the UEFA Champions League final against Chelsea in Porto, Portugal. De Bruyne was substituted off in the 60th minute after Chelsea defender Antonio Rudiger body-checked the Belgian.<o:p></o:p>

The 29-year-old straightaway went on to the ground and looked in immense pain as the physios and medical staff checked him. De Bruyne left the field in tears and pain as the Man City staff helped him limp off. Now, the Belgian has revealed the extent of his injury.<o:p></o:p>

De Bruyne has said that he has suffered acute nose bone fracture and left orbital fracture. The Man City midfielder further said he is still disappointed about the Champions League final defeat against Chelsea while vowing that the team will be back fighting for titles next season.<o:p></o:p>

“Hi guys just got back from the hospital. My diagnosis is Acute nose bone fracture and left orbital fracture. I feel okay now. Still disappointed about yesterday obviously but we will be back,” De Bruyne tweeted.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-final-how-pep-guardiolas-manchester-city-imploded-on-their-biggest-night-388380" hreflang="en">Champions League Final: How Pep Guardiola's Manchester City imploded on their biggest night</a>

<o:p></o:p>

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Hi guys just got back from the hospital. My diagnosis is Acute nose bone fracture and left orbital fracture. I feel okay now. Still disappointed about yesterday obviously but we will be back
— Kevin De Bruyne (@DeBruyneKev) <a href="https://twitter.com/DeBruyneKev/status/1398944269348573188?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 30, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Manchester City players were left in tears as Chelsea defeated them 1-0 to lift their second Champions League trophy. Chelsea’s club-record signing, Kai Havertz netted his first-ever goal in UCL to hand Chelsea the most important goal of their season as the London club enjoyed their first success under manager Thomas Tuchel. <o:p></o:p>

Earlier on Sunday, Man City right-back Kyle Walker expressed his disappointment in not winning the coveted Champions League but said the team will bounce back stronger next season.<o:p></o:p>

“We gave everything last night to make our fans proud and I’m sorry it wasn’t enough to bring the trophy home for you. We will be back stronger.&nbsp; Thanks for all your support,” Walker tweeted.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kais-the-limit-as-chelsea-fans-revel-in-champions-league-glory-388360" hreflang="en">Kai's the limit as Chelsea fans revel in Champions League glory</a>

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We gave everything last night to make our fans proud and I’m sorry it wasn’t enough to bring the trophy home for you. 
 
We will be back stronger. 
Thanks for all your support. 
💙 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/mancity?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#mancity</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/ManCity?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@mancity</a> <a href="https://t.co/wmKnh1ogp0">pic.twitter.com/wmKnh1ogp0</a>
— Kyle Walker (@kylewalker2) <a href="https://twitter.com/kylewalker2/status/1398940075145170948?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 30, 2021</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Manchester City and Belgium midfielder Kevin de Bruyne has revealed the extent of his injury picked up during the UEFA Champions League final against Chelsea in Porto, Portugal.

Manchester City and Belgium midfielder Kevin de Bruyne has revealed the extent of his injury picked up during the UEFA Champions League final against Chelsea in Porto, Portugal. De Bruyne was substituted off in the 60th minute after Chelsea defender Antonio Rudiger body-checked the Belgian. The 29-year-old straightaway went on to the ground and looked in immense pain as the physios and medical staff checked him. De Bruyne left the field in tears and pain as the Man City staff helped him limp off. Now, the Belgian has revealed the extent of his injury. De Bruyne has said that he has suffered acute nose bone fracture and left orbital fracture. The Man City midfielder further said he is still disappointed about the Champions League final defeat against Chelsea while vowing that the team will be back fighting for titles next season. “Hi guys just got back from the hospital. My diagnosis is Acute nose bone fracture and left orbital fracture. I feel okay now. Still disappointed about yesterday obviously but we will be back,” De Bruyne tweeted. ALSO READ: Champions League Final: How Pep Guardiola's Manchester City imploded on their biggest night Hi guys just got back from the hospital. My diagnosis is Acute nose bone fracture and left orbital fracture. I feel okay now. Still disappointed about yesterday obviously but we will be back — Kevin De Bruyne (@DeBruyneKev) May 30, 2021 × Manchester City players were left in tears as Chelsea defeated them 1-0 to lift their second Champions League trophy. Chelsea’s club-record signing, Kai Havertz netted his first-ever goal in UCL to hand Chelsea the most important goal of their season as the London club enjoyed their first success under manager Thomas Tuchel. Earlier on Sunday, Man City right-back Kyle Walker expressed his disappointment in not winning the coveted Champions League but said the team will bounce back stronger next season. “We gave everything last night to make our fans proud and I’m sorry it wasn’t enough to bring the trophy home for you. We will be back stronger. Thanks for all your support,” Walker tweeted. ALSO READ: Kai's the limit as Chelsea fans revel in Champions League glory We gave everything last night to make our fans proud and I’m sorry it wasn’t enough to bring the trophy home for you. We will be back stronger. Thanks for all your support. 💙 #mancity @mancity pic.twitter.com/wmKnh1ogp0 — Kyle Walker (@kylewalker2) May 30, 2021 ×

Football: 'Acute nose bone fracture and left orbital fracture' - Kevin De Bruyne reveals extent of injury picked up during UCL final

Antonio Cassano trusts Italian manager Antonio Conte will be employed as Zinedine Zidane's substitution by Los Blancos this late spring. The striker likewise accepts the French legend could be the ideal decision for Paris-Saint Germain if Mauricio Pochettino chooses to leave the Ligue 1 colossus.&nbsp;

Antonio Conte stunned fans and savants everywhere in the world when he headed out in different directions from Inter Milan by mutual break-up in the wake of driving the club to its first Scudetto in quite a while.&nbsp;

The Italian manager has demonstrated himself to be a chronic victor lately and constructed himself standing for creating groups that proceed to win prizes several years since his appointment.

Conte has won four Serie A titles, a Premier League, and an FA Cup during his fifteen years as a football manager.&nbsp;

Various top clubs in Europe are presently on the lookout for another manager. Real Madrid, Barcelona, Paris-Saint Germain, Tottenham Hotspur and Arsenal are for the most part apparently searching for another manager this late spring.&nbsp;

Conte is probably going to be at the highest point of the list of things to get for the vast majority of these clubs because of his experience of overseeing top-quality football teams and winning trophies.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-final-how-pep-guardiolas-manchester-city-imploded-on-their-biggest-night-388380" hreflang="en">Champions League Final: How Pep Guardiola's Manchester City imploded on their biggest night</a>

Antonio Cassano trusts Antonio Conte could wind up at the Santiago Bernabeu.

"For me, Conte's only option is Real Madrid. His time at Inter was positive, with a good first year and winning the Scudetto in his second, playing his way. I don't think he can go to PSG because they don't have the right players for his game or share his football mentality, Zidane is perfect for PSG" - he said

Real Madrid is presently in danger of being prohibited from the Champions League for up to two seasons on the off chance that they neglect to separate themselves from the European Super League. Los Blancos are likewise prone to confront a fine worth up to €100 million.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-pupil-beats-the-master-as-chelseas-tuchel-gets-the-better-of-guardiola-388363" hreflang="en">Football: Pupil beats the master as Chelsea's Tuchel gets the better of Guardiola</a>

This could risk their odds of marking Antonio Conte and marking their top exchange focuses on this mid-year.

Antonio Cassano trusts Italian manager Antonio Conte will be employed as Zinedine Zidane's substitution by Los Blancos this late spring. The striker likewise accepts the French legend could be the ideal decision for Paris-Saint Germain if Mauricio Pochettino chooses to leave the Ligue 1 colossus.

Antonio Cassano trusts Italian manager Antonio Conte will be employed as Zinedine Zidane's substitution by Los Blancos this late spring. The striker likewise accepts the French legend could be the ideal decision for Paris-Saint Germain if Mauricio Pochettino chooses to leave the Ligue 1 colossus. Antonio Conte stunned fans and savants everywhere in the world when he headed out in different directions from Inter Milan by mutual break-up in the wake of driving the club to its first Scudetto in quite a while. The Italian manager has demonstrated himself to be a chronic victor lately and constructed himself standing for creating groups that proceed to win prizes several years since his appointment. Conte has won four Serie A titles, a Premier League, and an FA Cup during his fifteen years as a football manager. Various top clubs in Europe are presently on the lookout for another manager. Real Madrid, Barcelona, Paris-Saint Germain, Tottenham Hotspur and Arsenal are for the most part apparently searching for another manager this late spring. Conte is probably going to be at the highest point of the list of things to get for the vast majority of these clubs because of his experience of overseeing top-quality football teams and winning trophies. ALSO READ: Champions League Final: How Pep Guardiola's Manchester City imploded on their biggest night Antonio Cassano trusts Antonio Conte could wind up at the Santiago Bernabeu. "For me, Conte's only option is Real Madrid. His time at Inter was positive, with a good first year and winning the Scudetto in his second, playing his way. I don't think he can go to PSG because they don't have the right players for his game or share his football mentality, Zidane is perfect for PSG" - he said Real Madrid is presently in danger of being prohibited from the Champions League for up to two seasons on the off chance that they neglect to separate themselves from the European Super League. Los Blancos are likewise prone to confront a fine worth up to €100 million. ALSO READ: Football: Pupil beats the master as Chelsea's Tuchel gets the better of Guardiola This could risk their odds of marking Antonio Conte and marking their top exchange focuses on this mid-year.

Football: 'Antonio Conte's only option is Real Madrid': Antonio Cassano

Chelsea defender Thiago Silva said he hoped the club's former manager Frank Lampard would be happy with the team after they beat Manchester City 1-0 in Saturday's all-English Champions League final.

Chelsea began the season well under Lampard as they topped their Champions League group, but the club great was dismissed in January after a poor run of form and replaced by Thomas Tuchel. Transformed under the new manager, the London side went on to win their second Champions League crown.

But Silva, who was signed by Lampard from Paris St Germain, said the former boss could be proud of his contribution to their success.

"Without Lampard, I would not be here," Silva told French broadcaster RMC Sport. "I'm very happy, and I hope he will be too."

Silva, who was replaced by Andreas Christensen after getting injured in the first half, reflected on the win after falling at the final hurdle with PSG last season.

"This is the most important moment in my career. I'm truly very happy. We didn't manage it with PSG but today I'm happy. I hope PSG do it too," Silva said.

"Each time PSG were knocked out, it was made out to be my fault. It's a shame. I did everything I could for the team."

Kai Havertz, another of Lampard's signings, said he was delighted to have scored the winning goal to secure his first major trophy.

"I've waited 15 years for this moment and now it's here," Havertz told BT Sport.

Fellow midfielder Mason Mount, twice an FA Cup runner-up with Chelsea, said he had achieved a lifelong dream to win a title with his boyhood club.

"To go all the way in the Champions League, we played some tough teams. At this moment, we're the best team in the world. You can't take that away from us," Mount said.

Chelsea defender Thiago Silva said he hoped the club's former manager Frank Lampard would be happy with the team after they beat Manchester City 1-0 in Saturday's all-English Champions League final.

Chelsea defender Thiago Silva said he hoped the club's former manager Frank Lampard would be happy with the team after they beat Manchester City 1-0 in Saturday's all-English Champions League final. Chelsea began the season well under Lampard as they topped their Champions League group, but the club great was dismissed in January after a poor run of form and replaced by Thomas Tuchel. Transformed under the new manager, the London side went on to win their second Champions League crown. But Silva, who was signed by Lampard from Paris St Germain, said the former boss could be proud of his contribution to their success. "Without Lampard, I would not be here," Silva told French broadcaster RMC Sport. "I'm very happy, and I hope he will be too." Silva, who was replaced by Andreas Christensen after getting injured in the first half, reflected on the win after falling at the final hurdle with PSG last season. "This is the most important moment in my career. I'm truly very happy. We didn't manage it with PSG but today I'm happy. I hope PSG do it too," Silva said. "Each time PSG were knocked out, it was made out to be my fault. It's a shame. I did everything I could for the team." Kai Havertz, another of Lampard's signings, said he was delighted to have scored the winning goal to secure his first major trophy. "I've waited 15 years for this moment and now it's here," Havertz told BT Sport. Fellow midfielder Mason Mount, twice an FA Cup runner-up with Chelsea, said he had achieved a lifelong dream to win a title with his boyhood club. "To go all the way in the Champions League, we played some tough teams. At this moment, we're the best team in the world. You can't take that away from us," Mount said.

Football: Thiago Silva hopes former boss Lampard happy with Chelsea success

David Alaba described his move to Real Madrid as a dream come true and said the decision to move to Spain had been made some time ago.

The 28-year-old Austrian international signed for Real Madrid on Friday, joining on a free transfer after spending more than a decade with Bayern Munich.

"This is a dream come true for me personally," Alaba said as Austria continued their preparations for the European Championship at their training camp in Bad Tatzmannsdorf over the weekend.

“It is a team at the top in&nbsp;football&nbsp;history. That's something special," he told reporters.

Real announced on Friday that Alaba had signed a five-year contract.

"The last weeks and months have been very intense, also somewhere emotional," said the defender, who left Bayern after 13 years and 10 Bundesliga titles.

He said he had decided on Real some time ago, with only details sorted in recent weeks. "I talked to a few clubs, but for me personally Real Madrid has always been at the top of the list. I knew from the start that when I left Bayern I was going in that direction.

"It was a very exciting season in Spain - this is a top league, that is clear to everyone. That's why I'm looking forward to it," he added.

"Other factors were that I want to develop as a person, want to learn a new culture, want to learn a new language."

The announcement of Alaba’s signing came one day after the departure of coach Zinedine Zidane.

"The situation is not that easy to assess. But I am sure that they have it under control," said Alaba on the subject.

As to which position he would play at Real, the versatile Alaba was not specific. "That we will find out in the future. First and foremost, they know that I can play multiple positions."

Having settled on his club future, Alaba can now concentrate on Austria’s campaign.

"It's nice for me personally that I can now be clear in my head and focus on the essentials,"

"The anticipation is huge, we are very keen to get going and everyone is happy to be together,” he said of his national team colleagues.

At the last finals in France in 2016, Austria disappointed by finishing last in their group. "Five years ago it was frustrating, anything but nice. Of course, we want to do better this time."

David Alaba described his move to Real Madrid as a dream come true and said the decision to move to Spain had been made some time ago. The 28-year-old Austrian international signed for Real Madrid on Friday, joining on a free transfer after spending more than a decade with Bayern Munich.

David Alaba described his move to Real Madrid as a dream come true and said the decision to move to Spain had been made some time ago. The 28-year-old Austrian international signed for Real Madrid on Friday, joining on a free transfer after spending more than a decade with Bayern Munich. "This is a dream come true for me personally," Alaba said as Austria continued their preparations for the European Championship at their training camp in Bad Tatzmannsdorf over the weekend. “It is a team at the top in football history. That's something special," he told reporters. Real announced on Friday that Alaba had signed a five-year contract. "The last weeks and months have been very intense, also somewhere emotional," said the defender, who left Bayern after 13 years and 10 Bundesliga titles. He said he had decided on Real some time ago, with only details sorted in recent weeks. "I talked to a few clubs, but for me personally Real Madrid has always been at the top of the list. I knew from the start that when I left Bayern I was going in that direction. "It was a very exciting season in Spain - this is a top league, that is clear to everyone. That's why I'm looking forward to it," he added. "Other factors were that I want to develop as a person, want to learn a new culture, want to learn a new language." The announcement of Alaba’s signing came one day after the departure of coach Zinedine Zidane. "The situation is not that easy to assess. But I am sure that they have it under control," said Alaba on the subject. As to which position he would play at Real, the versatile Alaba was not specific. "That we will find out in the future. First and foremost, they know that I can play multiple positions." Having settled on his club future, Alaba can now concentrate on Austria’s campaign. "It's nice for me personally that I can now be clear in my head and focus on the essentials," "The anticipation is huge, we are very keen to get going and everyone is happy to be together,” he said of his national team colleagues. At the last finals in France in 2016, Austria disappointed by finishing last in their group. "Five years ago it was frustrating, anything but nice. Of course, we want to do better this time."

Football: Real Madrid was David Alaba's only real consideration

Ace Australian pacer Pat Cummins is unlikely to return for the remainder of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021, which will take place in the UAE, to play for Kolkata Knight Riders. <o:p></o:p>

According to a report in Sydney Morning Herald, Cummins has made it clear that he won’t be participating in the remaining matches of IPL 2021 for his team KKR. <o:p></o:p>

"David Warner and Pat Cummins could be rested from the West Indies tour because of family reasons - others could follow after a draining year in several bubbles - and Cummins, despite a multimillion-dollar IPL contract, has already said he will not return to the T20 tournament this season," stated the report.<o:p></o:p>

Earlier, the managing director of the England men’s team and former international, Ashley Giles said that England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) are not planning to tweak their schedule for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-world-test-championship-final-is-like-world-cup-final-for-me-neil-wagner-388373" hreflang="en">Cricket: World Test Championship final is like World Cup final for me: Neil Wagner</a><o:p></o:p>

The remaining matches of the postponed IPL 2021 will be completed in the UAE with the BCCI shifting the tournament from India due to the ‘monsoon’ season in the country. <o:p></o:p>

"We are going to have to give some of these guys a break at some point. But the intention of giving guys a break for, say, Bangladesh, wouldn't be for them to go and play cricket elsewhere," ESPNcricinfo quoted Giles as saying.<o:p></o:p>

"We have to manage our schedule now, so we get our guys arriving in the best shape possible for the T20 World Cup and the Ashes," he added.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/virat-kohli-isnt-the-highest-paid-captain-in-international-cricket-check-full-list-of-skippers-and-salaries-in-2021-386865" hreflang="en">Virat Kohli isn't the highest-paid captain in international cricket! - Check full list of skippers and salaries in 2021</a><o:p></o:p>

The decision to shift IPL 2021 to the UAE was taken at a Special General Meeting (SGM) held virtually on Saturday, where members unanimously agreed to resume the T20 tournament.<o:p></o:p>

"The BCCI SGM further authorised the office bearers to seek an extension of time from the ICC to take an appropriate call on the hosting of ICC T20 World Cup 2021," the BCCI said in an official release.<o:p></o:p>

Ace Australian pacer Pat Cummins is unlikely to return for the remainder of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021, which will take place in the UAE, to play for Kolkata Knight Riders.

Ace Australian pacer Pat Cummins is unlikely to return for the remainder of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021, which will take place in the UAE, to play for Kolkata Knight Riders. According to a report in Sydney Morning Herald, Cummins has made it clear that he won’t be participating in the remaining matches of IPL 2021 for his team KKR. "David Warner and Pat Cummins could be rested from the West Indies tour because of family reasons - others could follow after a draining year in several bubbles - and Cummins, despite a multimillion-dollar IPL contract, has already said he will not return to the T20 tournament this season," stated the report. Earlier, the managing director of the England men’s team and former international, Ashley Giles said that England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) are not planning to tweak their schedule for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021. ALSO READ: Cricket: World Test Championship final is like World Cup final for me: Neil Wagner The remaining matches of the postponed IPL 2021 will be completed in the UAE with the BCCI shifting the tournament from India due to the ‘monsoon’ season in the country. "We are going to have to give some of these guys a break at some point. But the intention of giving guys a break for, say, Bangladesh, wouldn't be for them to go and play cricket elsewhere," ESPNcricinfo quoted Giles as saying. "We have to manage our schedule now, so we get our guys arriving in the best shape possible for the T20 World Cup and the Ashes," he added. ALSO READ: Virat Kohli isn't the highest-paid captain in international cricket! - Check full list of skippers and salaries in 2021 The decision to shift IPL 2021 to the UAE was taken at a Special General Meeting (SGM) held virtually on Saturday, where members unanimously agreed to resume the T20 tournament. "The BCCI SGM further authorised the office bearers to seek an extension of time from the ICC to take an appropriate call on the hosting of ICC T20 World Cup 2021," the BCCI said in an official release.

Cricket: KKR's Pat Cummins to miss remainder of IPL 2021 in UAE - Report

New Zealand left-arm pacer Neil Wagner has said that the World Test Championship final against India would be like a World Cup for him.&nbsp;

The World Test Championship final between India and New Zealand will be played at the Ageas Bowl in Southampton from June 18 to 22. Neil Wagner will be one of the vital bowlers for the Kiwis.&nbsp;

In a conversation with ESPNcricinfo, he conceded that having neglected to discover a spot in New Zealand's white-ball crews, the World Test Championship final will be his shot at 'World Cup' wonder.&nbsp;

Neil Wagner expressed: "Yeah, it is like a World Cup final for me. The biggest disappointment, I guess, in my career is that I've never really played a white-ball game for New Zealand or never been able to crack into the T20 or the one-day game."

"That ship has probably sailed now and I don't think the opportunity will ever come. For me now, it's about putting all my focus and energy into Test cricket and to be able to play in a World Test Championship final is like a World Cup for me" - he added.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-18-months-were-filled-with-sleepless-nights-ravindra-jadeja-on-when-he-was-dropped-from-team-india-388356" hreflang="en">Cricket: '18 months were filled with sleepless nights': Ravindra Jadeja on when he was dropped from Team India</a>

He further added that playing against an incredible side like India would be a trial of his abilities on the greatest stage, which is the thing that cricketers play for. Neil Wagner said in such manner:

"I know this final is the first and there isn't a lot of history around it, but it's the start of something that's pretty big. To play in a one-off Test final against India, one of the best teams in the world, if not the best team in the world, to be able to test yourself against the best on the highest and biggest stage, that's what it's about" - he said.

"It's extremely exciting, but I don't want to think too far ahead. Don't want to let the occasion get to you, just treat it like another Test match and do the same things you do. It's definitely going to be a special occasion. That's for sure" - he added.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-would-like-to-play-all-seven-tests-this-summer-james-anderson-388349" hreflang="en">Cricket: 'Would like to play all seven Tests this summer': James Anderson</a>

New Zealand's visit through England, involving two Tests against the hosts and the WTC last against India, will be the last international match of wicketkeeper-batsman BJ Watling.

Paying tribute to BJ Watling's career, Neil Wagner said:"He's a top man and will be sorely missed in this team. He's the glue and the gel of the team and has been around for a long time now. I've always appreciated his honesty. He's one of the guys who put me back in line if need be but will also encourage you and pick you up on the tough days. He's always been there for me, whether for plans or ideas. No matter how tired he is, he will sprint from the keeping side, run all the way to your mark to have a chat with you with a couple of plans.”

New Zealand's visit through England will start with the initial Test at Lord's, beginning June 2. The subsequent Test will be played in Birmingham from June 10. 
&nbsp;

New Zealand left-arm pacer Neil Wagner has said that the World Test Championship final against India would be like a World Cup for him. The World Test Championship final between India and New Zealand will be played at the Ageas Bowl in Southampton from June 18 to 22.

New Zealand left-arm pacer Neil Wagner has said that the World Test Championship final against India would be like a World Cup for him. The World Test Championship final between India and New Zealand will be played at the Ageas Bowl in Southampton from June 18 to 22. Neil Wagner will be one of the vital bowlers for the Kiwis. In a conversation with ESPNcricinfo, he conceded that having neglected to discover a spot in New Zealand's white-ball crews, the World Test Championship final will be his shot at 'World Cup' wonder. Neil Wagner expressed: "Yeah, it is like a World Cup final for me. The biggest disappointment, I guess, in my career is that I've never really played a white-ball game for New Zealand or never been able to crack into the T20 or the one-day game." "That ship has probably sailed now and I don't think the opportunity will ever come. For me now, it's about putting all my focus and energy into Test cricket and to be able to play in a World Test Championship final is like a World Cup for me" - he added. ALSO READ: Cricket: '18 months were filled with sleepless nights': Ravindra Jadeja on when he was dropped from Team India He further added that playing against an incredible side like India would be a trial of his abilities on the greatest stage, which is the thing that cricketers play for. Neil Wagner said in such manner: "I know this final is the first and there isn't a lot of history around it, but it's the start of something that's pretty big. To play in a one-off Test final against India, one of the best teams in the world, if not the best team in the world, to be able to test yourself against the best on the highest and biggest stage, that's what it's about" - he said. "It's extremely exciting, but I don't want to think too far ahead. Don't want to let the occasion get to you, just treat it like another Test match and do the same things you do. It's definitely going to be a special occasion. That's for sure" - he added. ALSO READ: Cricket: 'Would like to play all seven Tests this summer': James Anderson New Zealand's visit through England, involving two Tests against the hosts and the WTC last against India, will be the last international match of wicketkeeper-batsman BJ Watling. Paying tribute to BJ Watling's career, Neil Wagner said:"He's a top man and will be sorely missed in this team. He's the glue and the gel of the team and has been around for a long time now. I've always appreciated his honesty. He's one of the guys who put me back in line if need be but will also encourage you and pick you up on the tough days. He's always been there for me, whether for plans or ideas. No matter how tired he is, he will sprint from the keeping side, run all the way to your mark to have a chat with you with a couple of plans.” New Zealand's visit through England will start with the initial Test at Lord's, beginning June 2. The subsequent Test will be played in Birmingham from June 10.

Cricket: World Test Championship final is like World Cup final for me: Neil Wagner

Chelsea lifted their second UEFA Champions League trophy as the Thomas Tuchel side outclassed Manchester City to win the summit clash 1-0, thanks to a defence-splitting pass by Mason Mount to find Kai Havertz in the 42nd minute as the young German rounded Ederson to net his first-ever goal – the one he will savour forever – in the biggest club competition.

While Manchester City have themselves to blame for a forgettable outing in Porto, Chelsea were up for every tactical nuance&nbsp;which Guardiola threw in front of them. The genius of N’Golo Kante produced one of the most breathtaking performances by a defensive midfielder as he swept and stole every ball that came his way. Whereas, young Reece James and Ben Chilwell nullified whatever threat the wingers – Raheem Sterling and Riyad Mahrez – had, if any, on the night.

Manchester City headed into the final against Chelsea as favourites. Given the impressive shows on the road to the final, Man City were expected to blow Chelsea over by their quality and form. However, the Premier League champions imploded on the night.

Some say the players felt the pressure of their first-ever Champions League final appearance (only Scott Carson from Man City had made it to the Champions League final before), many say Pep Guardiola’s ‘overthinking’ has cost them the coveted Champions League trophy.

<img alt="Pep Guardiola UCL final" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f9d1c91d-3f10-492c-8a5e-72c07e56bbba" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_9AZ9F4.jpg" />

Guardiola lost his first cup final as Manchester City manager, and second major cup final defeat of his managerial career - after the Copa del Rey in 2010-11.

So where did Manchester City lose the Champions League final against Chelsea?

<h2>Formation change</h2>

Manchester City’s game is based on patience and finding that perfect time to accelerate the tempo. The Cityzens did it to almost perfection during the course of the Premier League and League Cup-winning campaign but Guardiola decided to tweak the formation. Man City, in the 2020-21 season, played 59 out of 60 matches with either of Fernandinho or Rodri in the playing XI – the defensive midfielders, integral to rhythm of the match while providing stability to the defensive line.

Guardiola went without either of them in the Champions League final and put Ilkay Gundogan, club’s highest goal-scorer this season in a holding position. Phil Foden, who excelled as left-winger this season, played as a number eight while Kevin De Bruyne dropped deep to link-up the play. Nothing worked as N’Golo Kante, Jorginho and Mason Mount continued to crowd the space in between. As Kante swept and cleaned almost every ball in the midfielder, Jorginho and Mount were present to find the relentless runs by Timo Werner.

<img alt="Kevin De Bruyne vs Chelsea" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="32dad7e1-a029-4693-a45c-728017a451c9" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_9AZ8YZ.jpg" />

Guardiola spoke glowingly ahead of the game on how Tuchel's switch to a 3-4-3 formation had transformed Chelsea's season and denied City's abundance of creative midfielders space between the lines in their two previous meetings.

Often accused of overly tinkering with his line-ups when the pressure is ramped up in the final stages of the Champions League, Guardiola's bold call to start without a recognised holding midfielder backfired.

“I did the best in the selection. Against Lyon like it was against PSG, Dortmund, I tried the selection the best to win the game. The players know it, I think Gundogan played good, we were exceptional,” Guardiola said after the crushing defeat to Chelsea in the final of Champions League.

<h2>Sterling left-wide, Riyad Mahrez kept drifting inwards</h2>

Many were left surprised when Manchester City named Raheem Sterling as one of the starters in the Champions League final. The Englishman didn’t enjoy the best of seasons and mostly struggled to find his A-game. Even when Sterling’s positioning and speed helped him to be in goal-scoring spaces, the 26-year-old has more often ended up scuffing his chances, during the course of the season.

Maybe, Guardiola wanted to take the pace of Reece James out of the game by planting Sterling on the left-wing but the tweak didn’t help as the Chelsea right wing-back kept tight on his England teammate. More surprisingly, Riyad Mahrez, who has been one of the finest performers in Europe this season, was asked to drift inwards without the ball, to create more space for Kyle Walker to explore his pace.

While Mahrez, most of the time, found no space to get on with his trickery, Walker found himself isolated in the wings when bombing forward. &nbsp;Another move, which Guardiola, in hindsight, would be gutted about.

<img alt="Pep and Sterling" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f5102ee1-3a6a-477d-bddc-badd47331826" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_9AZ9AU.jpg" />

<h2>Patience out of the building</h2>

Manchester City’s game, under Pep Guardiola, has been based on “patience” and trying to find the space for the perfect pass in front of the goal. But surprisingly, the team which won three Premier League titles, an FA Cup, four League Cups – on the trot, two Community Shields and reached the final of Champions League, with the same approach was set-up to play in a completely contrasting style.

At one point, the likes of Sterling, Foden, De Bruyne and Mahrez were hugging Chelsea’s defensive line with the hope that one of the defenders or Gundogan would find the long ball penetrating the resilient and stubborn defense. This is where Guardiola got it completely wrong, by forcing a style that doesn’t suit how Man City play. The forced style by Guardiola left Man City in the lurch, neither they were able to get on with their usual passing, pressing, position game; nor did they manage to counter-attack when spaces opened. There were plenty of long-balls played, but again, this is not how Man City are accustomed to playing.

"We expected Fernandinho in the line-up, to start. He chose a very offensive line-up, a very tactical line-up. It's very hard to steal and recover the ball. Everything else we more or less expected,” said Chelsea boss and now a UCL winner, Thomas Tuchel.

<img alt="Pep Guardiola" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0073a055-a4f6-4487-b921-c08a7f46f014" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_9B22FV.jpg" />

Manchester City could have had a perfect ending to a difficult 2020-21 season but the curious stat of debutant UCL finalist failing to win the coveted European trophy continues. While the long wait for the Champions League trophy continues for the Cityzens, the fans will be proud of the heights the club has reached in the last decade or so.

While an xG of 0.52 on the biggest night of Manchester City was underwhelming, a&nbsp;Premier League trophy and League Cup along with a Champions League final appearance is a terrific achievement for Manchester City. But they must find a way to overcome the heartbreaking defeat and get going again in the next season, like they have, on so many occassions.&nbsp;

<o:p></o:p>

Chelsea lifted their second UEFA Champions League trophy as the Thomas Tuchel side outclassed Manchester City to win the summit clash 1-0, thanks to a defence-splitting pass by Mason Mount to find Kai Havertz in the 42nd minute as the young German rounded Ederson to net his first-ever goal – the one he will savour forever – in the biggest club competition.

Chelsea lifted their second UEFA Champions League trophy as the Thomas Tuchel side outclassed Manchester City to win the summit clash 1-0, thanks to a defence-splitting pass by Mason Mount to find Kai Havertz in the 42nd minute as the young German rounded Ederson to net his first-ever goal – the one he will savour forever – in the biggest club competition. While Manchester City have themselves to blame for a forgettable outing in Porto, Chelsea were up for every tactical nuance which Guardiola threw in front of them. The genius of N’Golo Kante produced one of the most breathtaking performances by a defensive midfielder as he swept and stole every ball that came his way. Whereas, young Reece James and Ben Chilwell nullified whatever threat the wingers – Raheem Sterling and Riyad Mahrez – had, if any, on the night. Manchester City headed into the final against Chelsea as favourites. Given the impressive shows on the road to the final, Man City were expected to blow Chelsea over by their quality and form. However, the Premier League champions imploded on the night. Some say the players felt the pressure of their first-ever Champions League final appearance (only Scott Carson from Man City had made it to the Champions League final before), many say Pep Guardiola’s ‘overthinking’ has cost them the coveted Champions League trophy. Guardiola lost his first cup final as Manchester City manager, and second major cup final defeat of his managerial career - after the Copa del Rey in 2010-11. So where did Manchester City lose the Champions League final against Chelsea? Formation change Manchester City’s game is based on patience and finding that perfect time to accelerate the tempo. The Cityzens did it to almost perfection during the course of the Premier League and League Cup-winning campaign but Guardiola decided to tweak the formation. Man City, in the 2020-21 season, played 59 out of 60 matches with either of Fernandinho or Rodri in the playing XI – the defensive midfielders, integral to rhythm of the match while providing stability to the defensive line. Guardiola went without either of them in the Champions League final and put Ilkay Gundogan, club’s highest goal-scorer this season in a holding position. Phil Foden, who excelled as left-winger this season, played as a number eight while Kevin De Bruyne dropped deep to link-up the play. Nothing worked as N’Golo Kante, Jorginho and Mason Mount continued to crowd the space in between. As Kante swept and cleaned almost every ball in the midfielder, Jorginho and Mount were present to find the relentless runs by Timo Werner. Guardiola spoke glowingly ahead of the game on how Tuchel's switch to a 3-4-3 formation had transformed Chelsea's season and denied City's abundance of creative midfielders space between the lines in their two previous meetings. Often accused of overly tinkering with his line-ups when the pressure is ramped up in the final stages of the Champions League, Guardiola's bold call to start without a recognised holding midfielder backfired. “I did the best in the selection. Against Lyon like it was against PSG, Dortmund, I tried the selection the best to win the game. The players know it, I think Gundogan played good, we were exceptional,” Guardiola said after the crushing defeat to Chelsea in the final of Champions League. Sterling left-wide, Riyad Mahrez kept drifting inwards Many were left surprised when Manchester City named Raheem Sterling as one of the starters in the Champions League final. The Englishman didn’t enjoy the best of seasons and mostly struggled to find his A-game. Even when Sterling’s positioning and speed helped him to be in goal-scoring spaces, the 26-year-old has more often ended up scuffing his chances, during the course of the season. Maybe, Guardiola wanted to take the pace of Reece James out of the game by planting Sterling on the left-wing but the tweak didn’t help as the Chelsea right wing-back kept tight on his England teammate. More surprisingly, Riyad Mahrez, who has been one of the finest performers in Europe this season, was asked to drift inwards without the ball, to create more space for Kyle Walker to explore his pace. While Mahrez, most of the time, found no space to get on with his trickery, Walker found himself isolated in the wings when bombing forward. Another move, which Guardiola, in hindsight, would be gutted about. Patience out of the building Manchester City’s game, under Pep Guardiola, has been based on “patience” and trying to find the space for the perfect pass in front of the goal. But surprisingly, the team which won three Premier League titles, an FA Cup, four League Cups – on the trot, two Community Shields and reached the final of Champions League, with the same approach was set-up to play in a completely contrasting style. At one point, the likes of Sterling, Foden, De Bruyne and Mahrez were hugging Chelsea’s defensive line with the hope that one of the defenders or Gundogan would find the long ball penetrating the resilient and stubborn defense. This is where Guardiola got it completely wrong, by forcing a style that doesn’t suit how Man City play. The forced style by Guardiola left Man City in the lurch, neither they were able to get on with their usual passing, pressing, position game; nor did they manage to counter-attack when spaces opened. There were plenty of long-balls played, but again, this is not how Man City are accustomed to playing. "We expected Fernandinho in the line-up, to start. He chose a very offensive line-up, a very tactical line-up. It's very hard to steal and recover the ball. Everything else we more or less expected,” said Chelsea boss and now a UCL winner, Thomas Tuchel. Manchester City could have had a perfect ending to a difficult 2020-21 season but the curious stat of debutant UCL finalist failing to win the coveted European trophy continues. While the long wait for the Champions League trophy continues for the Cityzens, the fans will be proud of the heights the club has reached in the last decade or so. While an xG of 0.52 on the biggest night of Manchester City was underwhelming, a Premier League trophy and League Cup along with a Champions League final appearance is a terrific achievement for Manchester City. But they must find a way to overcome the heartbreaking defeat and get going again in the next season, like they have, on so many occassions.

Champions League Final: How Pep Guardiola's Manchester City imploded on their biggest night

Ravindra Jadeja is without a doubt truly outstanding, if not the best, fielders in global cricket right now. He is set to go to England where his fortunes drastically changed for great in 2018. From being out of the group in Tests and ODIs, Ravindra Jadeja is currently one of the key all-design players of this group that needs to win the World Test Championship.&nbsp;

In a talk with The Indian Express, Jadeja illuminates how he turned into an attacking batsman, his sizzling fielding, his early stages in bowling.&nbsp;

"Honestly, those one-and-a-half years were filled with sleepless nights. Through that phase, I remember I would be up till 4-5 am. I would be thinking about what to do, how am I going to bounce back? I couldn’t sleep. I would be lying down. I was in the Test squad but not playing as we played a lot overseas. I wasn’t playing ODIs. I wasn’t playing domestic too as I would be traveling with the Indian team though not playing. I wasn’t getting any opportunity to prove myself. I would keep thinking about how I am going to come back."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/england-tour-promises-to-be-golden-summer-of-indian-cricket-reckons-sunil-gavaskar-388350" hreflang="en">'England tour promises to be golden summer of Indian cricket,' reckons Sunil Gavaskar</a>

Ravindra Jadeja on the Oval Test where he scored 86 runs in the first innings:

"That Test changed everything for me. My performance, my confidence, everything. When you score in English conditions against the best bowling attack, it greatly impacts your confidence. It makes you feel your technique is good enough to score anywhere in the world. Later, Hardik Pandya got injured and I made my ODI comeback. From then on, my game has been going well, touchwood."

Ravindra Jadeja's this picture has been based on the rear of countless game-evolving run-outs and stupendous catches, the kudos for which regularly goes to his well-honed expectation abilities. Ravindra Jadeja saw that expectation is the distinction between 'easy' catches for him and 'blinders' for different fielders. He added that his abilities are only a mix of experience and sharpness.

"I know my anticipation is very good in a match situation. I don’t know what others think about before the ball comes, but personally, after playing so many years, I know what the release shot of different batsmen is. And I can tell from how he is playing, where the ball is going to go. I have that extra fraction of a second and I move there quickly. So, at times, you will see me getting into positions and take ‘easy’ catches, but I know if it were someone else, it would have been a blinder as he hasn’t moved across quickly in anticipation" - he said.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-would-like-to-play-all-seven-tests-this-summer-james-anderson-388349" hreflang="en">Cricket: 'Would like to play all seven Tests this summer': James Anderson</a>

"It does feel good when I am appreciated for my fielding, they might not see my hard work, but they know it. When I drop catches also, people don’t criticize, it’s more like, ‘hota hai, it happens" - he added.

When requested to uncover the 'secret' of his ability, Ravindra Jadeja said it was a blend of his dad's qualities and a great deal of constancy. He asserted that had he not filled in as hard as he has, his shoulders would have surrendered at this point. Jadeja additionally credited his prosperity to youth mentor Mahendra Singh Chauhan.

"You must ask my papa. I have his genes. Some of it is natural. Lots of hard work with shoulder exercises, gym, practice. It’s not all-natural for me. I work a lot on it else, my shoulders won’t have lasted long. It’s been 12-13 years but I have maintained my shoulder. I bowl a lot too. I train well and know how to take care. My coach Mahendra Singh Chauhan in Jamnagar would make us run and field; only then you can bat. In the first four years, I would only field a lot. He would seem stern, doesn’t show expressions but he is very helpful. He was very good" - he said.

Ravindra Jadeja opens up on the new normal: "It’s very tough. When we underwent quarantine for the first time, we didn’t realise that it would get tougher. Now, before every series, we have to undergo quarantine. Sometimes, we feel very bored but at the same time, we are getting to play cricket. Now before entering the hotel we download movies. One can’t exercise the whole day, so one has to find some entertainment. Earlier it was 14 days of quarantine and now we have seven days. &nbsp;Sometimes killing time is a challenge, though."

Ravindra Jadeja will be found in action for the World Test Championship finale in Southampton from June 18. 
&nbsp;

Ravindra Jadeja is without a doubt truly outstanding, if not the best, fielders in global cricket right now. He is set to go to England where his fortunes drastically changed for great in 2018.

Ravindra Jadeja is without a doubt truly outstanding, if not the best, fielders in global cricket right now. He is set to go to England where his fortunes drastically changed for great in 2018. From being out of the group in Tests and ODIs, Ravindra Jadeja is currently one of the key all-design players of this group that needs to win the World Test Championship. In a talk with The Indian Express, Jadeja illuminates how he turned into an attacking batsman, his sizzling fielding, his early stages in bowling. "Honestly, those one-and-a-half years were filled with sleepless nights. Through that phase, I remember I would be up till 4-5 am. I would be thinking about what to do, how am I going to bounce back? I couldn’t sleep. I would be lying down. I was in the Test squad but not playing as we played a lot overseas. I wasn’t playing ODIs. I wasn’t playing domestic too as I would be traveling with the Indian team though not playing. I wasn’t getting any opportunity to prove myself. I would keep thinking about how I am going to come back." ALSO READ: 'England tour promises to be golden summer of Indian cricket,' reckons Sunil Gavaskar Ravindra Jadeja on the Oval Test where he scored 86 runs in the first innings: "That Test changed everything for me. My performance, my confidence, everything. When you score in English conditions against the best bowling attack, it greatly impacts your confidence. It makes you feel your technique is good enough to score anywhere in the world. Later, Hardik Pandya got injured and I made my ODI comeback. From then on, my game has been going well, touchwood." Ravindra Jadeja's this picture has been based on the rear of countless game-evolving run-outs and stupendous catches, the kudos for which regularly goes to his well-honed expectation abilities. Ravindra Jadeja saw that expectation is the distinction between 'easy' catches for him and 'blinders' for different fielders. He added that his abilities are only a mix of experience and sharpness. "I know my anticipation is very good in a match situation. I don’t know what others think about before the ball comes, but personally, after playing so many years, I know what the release shot of different batsmen is. And I can tell from how he is playing, where the ball is going to go. I have that extra fraction of a second and I move there quickly. So, at times, you will see me getting into positions and take ‘easy’ catches, but I know if it were someone else, it would have been a blinder as he hasn’t moved across quickly in anticipation" - he said. ALSO READ: Cricket: 'Would like to play all seven Tests this summer': James Anderson "It does feel good when I am appreciated for my fielding, they might not see my hard work, but they know it. When I drop catches also, people don’t criticize, it’s more like, ‘hota hai, it happens" - he added. When requested to uncover the 'secret' of his ability, Ravindra Jadeja said it was a blend of his dad's qualities and a great deal of constancy. He asserted that had he not filled in as hard as he has, his shoulders would have surrendered at this point. Jadeja additionally credited his prosperity to youth mentor Mahendra Singh Chauhan. "You must ask my papa. I have his genes. Some of it is natural. Lots of hard work with shoulder exercises, gym, practice. It’s not all-natural for me. I work a lot on it else, my shoulders won’t have lasted long. It’s been 12-13 years but I have maintained my shoulder. I bowl a lot too. I train well and know how to take care. My coach Mahendra Singh Chauhan in Jamnagar would make us run and field; only then you can bat. In the first four years, I would only field a lot. He would seem stern, doesn’t show expressions but he is very helpful. He was very good" - he said. Ravindra Jadeja opens up on the new normal: "It’s very tough. When we underwent quarantine for the first time, we didn’t realise that it would get tougher. Now, before every series, we have to undergo quarantine. Sometimes, we feel very bored but at the same time, we are getting to play cricket. Now before entering the hotel we download movies. One can’t exercise the whole day, so one has to find some entertainment. Earlier it was 14 days of quarantine and now we have seven days. Sometimes killing time is a challenge, though." Ravindra Jadeja will be found in action for the World Test Championship finale in Southampton from June 18.

Cricket: '18 months were filled with sleepless nights': Ravindra Jadeja on when he was dropped from Team India

Naomi Osaka's decision to shun the media at the French Open has rocked the&nbsp;tennis&nbsp;landscape and all eyes will be on the world number two when she takes on Romanian Patricia Maria Tig in her first match on Court Philippe-Chatrier on Sunday.

Osaka's announcement that she would boycott her press conferences to protect her mental health has sparked heated debate, with the 23-year-old Japanese player drawing support and condemnation from various quarters.

Osaka missed last year's French Open with a hamstring injury and her preparation has been far from ideal this year, with only three matches under her belt on clay after early defeats in Madrid and Rome.

She has never progressed beyond the third round in Paris and said in Rome that she was still coming to grips with her least-favorite surface.

"In a weird way, I'm kind of glad I'm not winning," Osaka had said. "I know that sounds a bit off, but I feel like I'm learning a lot."

Men's fourth seed Dominic Thiem, who stitched together a run to the semi-finals in Madrid before falling early in Rome and Lyon, is also in action against Spaniard Pablo Andujar.

Twice a finalist at Roland Garros, the Austrian will not meet one of the 'Big Three' - Rafa Nadal, Novak Djokovic, and Roger Federer - until the quarter-finals, being in the other half of the draw, but is more worried about his own form.

"I think the way I'm coming into the tournament, the way I also played the last weeks, the only thing I can focus on is the first rounds," Thiem said. "I shouldn't focus at all on who is in my quarter or even who is in my half."

Greece's Monte Carlo Masters and Lyon champion Stefanos Tsitsipas, who is seeded fifth, and Germany's Madrid Masters winner Alexander Zverev, the sixth seed, are also in action, against Jeremy Chardy and qualifier Oscar Otte, respectively.

Third seed Aryna Sabalenka of Belarus, who beat Australian world number one Ash Barty in the Madrid showpiece, faces Croatian qualifier Ana Konjuh, who reached the final in Belgrade last week but retired with a hip injury.

Naomi Osaka's decision to shun the media at the French Open has rocked the tennis landscape and all eyes will be on the world number two when she takes on Romanian Patricia Maria Tig in her first match on Court Philippe-Chatrier on Sunday.

Naomi Osaka's decision to shun the media at the French Open has rocked the tennis landscape and all eyes will be on the world number two when she takes on Romanian Patricia Maria Tig in her first match on Court Philippe-Chatrier on Sunday. Osaka's announcement that she would boycott her press conferences to protect her mental health has sparked heated debate, with the 23-year-old Japanese player drawing support and condemnation from various quarters. Osaka missed last year's French Open with a hamstring injury and her preparation has been far from ideal this year, with only three matches under her belt on clay after early defeats in Madrid and Rome. She has never progressed beyond the third round in Paris and said in Rome that she was still coming to grips with her least-favorite surface. "In a weird way, I'm kind of glad I'm not winning," Osaka had said. "I know that sounds a bit off, but I feel like I'm learning a lot." Men's fourth seed Dominic Thiem, who stitched together a run to the semi-finals in Madrid before falling early in Rome and Lyon, is also in action against Spaniard Pablo Andujar. Twice a finalist at Roland Garros, the Austrian will not meet one of the 'Big Three' - Rafa Nadal, Novak Djokovic, and Roger Federer - until the quarter-finals, being in the other half of the draw, but is more worried about his own form. "I think the way I'm coming into the tournament, the way I also played the last weeks, the only thing I can focus on is the first rounds," Thiem said. "I shouldn't focus at all on who is in my quarter or even who is in my half." Greece's Monte Carlo Masters and Lyon champion Stefanos Tsitsipas, who is seeded fifth, and Germany's Madrid Masters winner Alexander Zverev, the sixth seed, are also in action, against Jeremy Chardy and qualifier Oscar Otte, respectively. Third seed Aryna Sabalenka of Belarus, who beat Australian world number one Ash Barty in the Madrid showpiece, faces Croatian qualifier Ana Konjuh, who reached the final in Belgrade last week but retired with a hip injury.

Tennis: Naomi Osaka takes centre stage as French Open gets underway

The BCCI indefinitely postponed the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 owing to positive cases across multiple teams inside the bio-secure bubble. While all the players and staff participating in IPL 2021 have now returned back to their respective homes, Ravichandran Ashwin was one Indian player who pulled out of IPL 2021 mid-way. <o:p></o:p>

Ashwin, who plays for IPL 2021 runners-up Delhi Capitals, decided to withdraw from the T20 tournament to be with his family. While Ashwin didn’t reveal the reason for his exit initially, his wife disclosed that as many as 10 people at their home had tested positive for COVID-19.<o:p></o:p>

Now, the veteran spinner has opened up about the phase during IPL 2021 as he said that while almost everyone contracted the dreaded virus in his home, a few of his family members’ health deteriorated and were admitted to the hospital.<o:p></o:p>

As things developed, Ashwin failed to be at peach inside IPL’s bio-secure bubble and the 34-year-old said that he couldn’t sleep due to the tension and stress for eight to 10 days.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-intention-is-to-give-guys-a-break-not-for-them-to-play-elsewhere-ashley-giles-on-england-players-in-remainder-of-ipl-2021-387855" hreflang="en">Cricket: Intention is to give guys a break, not for them to play elsewhere: Ashley Giles on England players in remainder of IPL 2021</a><o:p></o:p>

Ashwin further revealed that he doubted whether he would be able to return to cricket.<o:p></o:p>

“Almost everyone from my place had got affected due to COVID. In fact, a few of my cousins also got admitted and were serious and they somehow recovered. I couldn’t sleep for almost 8-9 days,” Ashwin said on his YouTube channel.<o:p></o:p>

“Since I couldn’t sleep, it was really stressful for me. I was playing matches without getting any sleep. And since I found it really taxing, I had to quit IPL and go home midway. In fact, when I left, around that time, I had thoughts on whether I will be able to play cricket thereafter. But still, I did what was required at that point of time,” Ashwin stated.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/virat-kohli-isnt-the-highest-paid-captain-in-international-cricket-check-full-list-of-skippers-and-salaries-in-2021-386865" hreflang="en">Virat Kohli isn't the highest-paid captain in international cricket! - Check full list of skippers and salaries in 2021</a><o:p></o:p>

Ashwin will be back in action when he takes the field for India in the World Test Championship final and five-Test series against England. <o:p></o:p>

The BCCI indefinitely postponed the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 owing to positive cases across multiple teams inside the bio-secure bubble. While all the players and staff participating in IPL 2021 have now returned back to their respective homes, Ravichandran Ashwin was one Indian player who pulled out of IPL 2021 mid-way.

The BCCI indefinitely postponed the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 owing to positive cases across multiple teams inside the bio-secure bubble. While all the players and staff participating in IPL 2021 have now returned back to their respective homes, Ravichandran Ashwin was one Indian player who pulled out of IPL 2021 mid-way. Ashwin, who plays for IPL 2021 runners-up Delhi Capitals, decided to withdraw from the T20 tournament to be with his family. While Ashwin didn’t reveal the reason for his exit initially, his wife disclosed that as many as 10 people at their home had tested positive for COVID-19. Now, the veteran spinner has opened up about the phase during IPL 2021 as he said that while almost everyone contracted the dreaded virus in his home, a few of his family members’ health deteriorated and were admitted to the hospital. As things developed, Ashwin failed to be at peach inside IPL’s bio-secure bubble and the 34-year-old said that he couldn’t sleep due to the tension and stress for eight to 10 days. ALSO READ: Cricket: Intention is to give guys a break, not for them to play elsewhere: Ashley Giles on England players in remainder of IPL 2021 Ashwin further revealed that he doubted whether he would be able to return to cricket. “Almost everyone from my place had got affected due to COVID. In fact, a few of my cousins also got admitted and were serious and they somehow recovered. I couldn’t sleep for almost 8-9 days,” Ashwin said on his YouTube channel. “Since I couldn’t sleep, it was really stressful for me. I was playing matches without getting any sleep. And since I found it really taxing, I had to quit IPL and go home midway. In fact, when I left, around that time, I had thoughts on whether I will be able to play cricket thereafter. But still, I did what was required at that point of time,” Ashwin stated. ALSO READ: Virat Kohli isn't the highest-paid captain in international cricket! - Check full list of skippers and salaries in 2021 Ashwin will be back in action when he takes the field for India in the World Test Championship final and five-Test series against England.

‘Had thoughts on whether I will be able to play cricket thereafter’ – R Ashwin on pulling out from IPL 2021

The Managing Director of England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB), Ashley Giles as said that the priority of English players would be to represent the country while adding no changes would be made to the international schedule in a bid to accommodate the remainder of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021.<o:p></o:p>

Giles maintained his earlier stance that ECB has not received any official requests to shift the five-Test series against India, which would allow more time for the BCCI in the September-October window to conduct the remainder of IPL 2021 in the UAE. <o:p></o:p>

‘I’m not aware of anything official, any requests to shift anything. As far as we’re concerned and what we’re prepared for, the matches will be where they are. I’m not surprised there’s all sorts of speculation. Everyone wants to get their cricket in. But we’ve not received anything official and we’re cracking on,” Giles said. <o:p></o:p>

Giles further said that even if some players are rested for the limited-overs tours of Bangladesh and Pakistan in September-October, that would not mean they can go and participate in IPL 2021.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-will-be-a-good-match-pat-cummins-prediction-on-wtc-finals-387834" hreflang="en">Cricket- 'Will be a good match': Pat Cummins' prediction on WTC finals</a><o:p></o:p>

“We have a full schedule. If we go from the end of the fifth Test in September, we are set to leave for Bangladesh on September 19 or 20. We have a full schedule right through including Pakistan and wherever the T20 World Cup is,” added Giles.<o:p></o:p>

“We are going to have to give some of these guys a break at some point. But the intention of giving guys a break for, say, Bangladesh, wouldn’t be for them to go and play cricket elsewhere.”<o:p></o:p>

“We have to manage our schedule now, so we get our guys arriving in the best shape possible for the T20 World Cup and the Ashes,” stated Giles.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-gayle-shakib-and-du-plessis-return-to-caribbean-premier-league-387817" hreflang="en">Cricket: Gayle, Shakib and Du Plessis return to Caribbean Premier League</a>

Earlier, ECB allowed its players to play in IPL 2021 in April-May despite a Test series scheduled against New Zealand in early June as the two-Test rubber wasn’t a part of the ICC World Test Championship. However, with ECB shifting its focus to the T20 World Cup and Ashes, things might change if IPL 2021 is held in the UAE in the September-October window. <o:p></o:p>

“Communication was made from Chris Silverwood to Bairstow and Buttler about what the plan was. We felt there was no need to go back on that. They’ve been spending time with their families and Jos is away for a few days at the moment. We didn’t want to drag those players out of that at the 11th hour. There was no plan to change that,” said Giles.<o:p></o:p>

The Managing Director of England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB), Ashley Giles as said that the priority of English players would be to represent the country while adding no changes would be made to the international schedule in a bid to accommodate the remainder of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021.

The Managing Director of England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB), Ashley Giles as said that the priority of English players would be to represent the country while adding no changes would be made to the international schedule in a bid to accommodate the remainder of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021. Giles maintained his earlier stance that ECB has not received any official requests to shift the five-Test series against India, which would allow more time for the BCCI in the September-October window to conduct the remainder of IPL 2021 in the UAE. ‘I’m not aware of anything official, any requests to shift anything. As far as we’re concerned and what we’re prepared for, the matches will be where they are. I’m not surprised there’s all sorts of speculation. Everyone wants to get their cricket in. But we’ve not received anything official and we’re cracking on,” Giles said. Giles further said that even if some players are rested for the limited-overs tours of Bangladesh and Pakistan in September-October, that would not mean they can go and participate in IPL 2021. ALSO READ: Cricket- 'Will be a good match': Pat Cummins' prediction on WTC finals “We have a full schedule. If we go from the end of the fifth Test in September, we are set to leave for Bangladesh on September 19 or 20. We have a full schedule right through including Pakistan and wherever the T20 World Cup is,” added Giles. “We are going to have to give some of these guys a break at some point. But the intention of giving guys a break for, say, Bangladesh, wouldn’t be for them to go and play cricket elsewhere.” “We have to manage our schedule now, so we get our guys arriving in the best shape possible for the T20 World Cup and the Ashes,” stated Giles. ALSO READ: Cricket: Gayle, Shakib and Du Plessis return to Caribbean Premier League Earlier, ECB allowed its players to play in IPL 2021 in April-May despite a Test series scheduled against New Zealand in early June as the two-Test rubber wasn’t a part of the ICC World Test Championship. However, with ECB shifting its focus to the T20 World Cup and Ashes, things might change if IPL 2021 is held in the UAE in the September-October window. “Communication was made from Chris Silverwood to Bairstow and Buttler about what the plan was. We felt there was no need to go back on that. They’ve been spending time with their families and Jos is away for a few days at the moment. We didn’t want to drag those players out of that at the 11th hour. There was no plan to change that,” said Giles.

Cricket: Intention is to give guys a break, not for them to play elsewhere: Ashley Giles on England players in remainder of IPL 2021

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