Sebastian Vettel provided a reminder of the talents that won him four drivers' world titles on Friday when he topped the times for Ferrari in a wet second practice for the Hungarian Grand Prix.

The German driver, who is looking for a new team for 2021 after being told he will be surplus to Ferrari’s needs, clocked a best lap in one minute and 40.464 seconds to outpace nearest rival and championship leader Valtteri Bottas of Mercedes by 0.272s.

For Vettel and Ferrari, it was a welcome boost after last Sunday’s ignominious exit from the Styrian Grand Prix where Charles Leclerc collided with him on the opening lap, causing both men into early retirement.

Carlos Sainz, the man chosen to replace Vettel at Ferrari, was third fastest for McLaren ahead of Lance Stroll and his Racing Point 'pink Mercedes' team-mate Sergio Perez.

Pierre Gasly, who sat out the morning opening session topped by Lewis Hamilton and his Mercedes team-mate Bottas, was sixth ahead of Max Verstappen of Red Bull, Romain Grosjean of Haas, Kimi Raikkonen of Alfa Romeo and Leclerc.

Defending six-time champion Lewis Hamilton was one of several drivers who decided to sit out the session without clocking a flying lap in the difficult conditions, the Briton choosing only to do a single installation lap.

More wet weather conditions are forecast for Budapest and the surrounding region on Saturday, making it likely that another wet qualifying session will take place. Last weekend’s qualifying at the Styrian Grand Prix was a thrilling spectacle in which Hamilton produced one of his greatest laps to take pole.

Sunday's Hungarian Grand Prix for the 35th consecutive year, is the third to be run this year in the COVID-19 delayed season and takes place&nbsp;behind closed doors&nbsp;and under strictly-controlled protocol conditions that do not allow anyone from the travelling F1 circus to go anywhere other than their hotels, the circuit or the airport.&nbsp;

Bottas won the season-opening Austrian Grand Prix and Hamilton last Sunday's Styrian Grand Prix.&nbsp;Bottas leads Hamilton by six points in the title race.

Sebastian Vettel provided a reminder of the talents that won him four drivers' world titles on Friday when he topped the times for Ferrari in a wet second practice for the Hungarian Grand Prix.

Sebastian Vettel provided a reminder of the talents that won him four drivers' world titles on Friday when he topped the times for Ferrari in a wet second practice for the Hungarian Grand Prix. The German driver, who is looking for a new team for 2021 after being told he will be surplus to Ferrari’s needs, clocked a best lap in one minute and 40.464 seconds to outpace nearest rival and championship leader Valtteri Bottas of Mercedes by 0.272s. For Vettel and Ferrari, it was a welcome boost after last Sunday’s ignominious exit from the Styrian Grand Prix where Charles Leclerc collided with him on the opening lap, causing both men into early retirement. Carlos Sainz, the man chosen to replace Vettel at Ferrari, was third fastest for McLaren ahead of Lance Stroll and his Racing Point 'pink Mercedes' team-mate Sergio Perez. Pierre Gasly, who sat out the morning opening session topped by Lewis Hamilton and his Mercedes team-mate Bottas, was sixth ahead of Max Verstappen of Red Bull, Romain Grosjean of Haas, Kimi Raikkonen of Alfa Romeo and Leclerc. Defending six-time champion Lewis Hamilton was one of several drivers who decided to sit out the session without clocking a flying lap in the difficult conditions, the Briton choosing only to do a single installation lap. More wet weather conditions are forecast for Budapest and the surrounding region on Saturday, making it likely that another wet qualifying session will take place. Last weekend’s qualifying at the Styrian Grand Prix was a thrilling spectacle in which Hamilton produced one of his greatest laps to take pole. Sunday's Hungarian Grand Prix for the 35th consecutive year, is the third to be run this year in the COVID-19 delayed season and takes place behind closed doors and under strictly-controlled protocol conditions that do not allow anyone from the travelling F1 circus to go anywhere other than their hotels, the circuit or the airport. Bottas won the season-opening Austrian Grand Prix and Hamilton last Sunday's Styrian Grand Prix. Bottas leads Hamilton by six points in the title race.

Ferrari relief as Vettel tops Hungarian second practice

A frustrated Lionel Messi called for change after Barcelona handed the La Liga title to Real Madrid on Thursday, warning the team will lose in the Champions League as well if they fail to improve.

Barca's title challenge ended with a whimper at Camp Nou, where they were beaten 2-1 by Osasuna while Madrid's 2-1 victory at home to Villarreal ensured they were crowned Spanish champions.

Defeat increases the pressure on coach Quique Setien, who took over in January with Barcelona sitting top of the table.

Club president Josep Maria Bartomeu has said Setien will remain in charge for the Champions League next month, when Barca play their second leg at home to Napoli, with the last-16 tie in the balance at 1-1.&nbsp;

"The feeling of the team is that it tries but can't do it, that we leave a lot to be desired in many areas and today in the first half I think they were better than us," Messi said after the loss to Osasuna.

"I said long ago that if we continued in this way, it would be very difficult to win the Champions League and that has been shown to be the case in La Liga too.

"If we want to fight for the Champions League we will have to change a lot because otherwise the match against Napoli, we will lose that as well."

Messi scored a brilliant free-kick against Osasuna but it was not enough. Madrid pulled seven points clear of Barcelona ahead of Sunday's final round of games.

"We didn't expect or want to finish like this but it almost sums up the whole year," said Messi. "We have been very inconsistent, very weak, beaten on intensity or desire.

"They created chances very easily and scored. During the whole year we have been inconsistent and we have lost a lot of points where we shouldn't have. This game showed what this year has been about for us."

<h2>- 'We have to be self-critical' -</h2>

Messi has been critical of the board this season and suggested everyone at the club should take their share of the blame.&nbsp;

"After the break Madrid have not lost any games and they deserve credit for that but we have also helped them a lot," said Messi.

"We lost a lot of games that we should not have lost and we have to be self-critical, starting with the players, but it has to be a total self-criticism from everyone because we are Barcelona and we are obliged to win the matches whatever happens and instead look at us."

If Barcelona come through against Napoli, they will face Bayern Munich in the last eight, with a compressed format of single legs all the way through to the final.&nbsp;

"I think we need a little air, this break will be good for us, to clear our heads, forget about everything that has happened," said Messi.

"It has been very bad from December until now but it is the Champions League and there are four games that can give you a trophy that we all want. But we have to change a lot and be very self-critical."

A frustrated Lionel Messi called for change after Barcelona handed the La Liga title to Real Madrid on Thursday, warning the team will lose in the Champions League as well if they fail to improve.

A frustrated Lionel Messi called for change after Barcelona handed the La Liga title to Real Madrid on Thursday, warning the team will lose in the Champions League as well if they fail to improve. Barca's title challenge ended with a whimper at Camp Nou, where they were beaten 2-1 by Osasuna while Madrid's 2-1 victory at home to Villarreal ensured they were crowned Spanish champions. Defeat increases the pressure on coach Quique Setien, who took over in January with Barcelona sitting top of the table. Club president Josep Maria Bartomeu has said Setien will remain in charge for the Champions League next month, when Barca play their second leg at home to Napoli, with the last-16 tie in the balance at 1-1. "The feeling of the team is that it tries but can't do it, that we leave a lot to be desired in many areas and today in the first half I think they were better than us," Messi said after the loss to Osasuna. "I said long ago that if we continued in this way, it would be very difficult to win the Champions League and that has been shown to be the case in La Liga too. "If we want to fight for the Champions League we will have to change a lot because otherwise the match against Napoli, we will lose that as well." Messi scored a brilliant free-kick against Osasuna but it was not enough. Madrid pulled seven points clear of Barcelona ahead of Sunday's final round of games. "We didn't expect or want to finish like this but it almost sums up the whole year," said Messi. "We have been very inconsistent, very weak, beaten on intensity or desire. "They created chances very easily and scored. During the whole year we have been inconsistent and we have lost a lot of points where we shouldn't have. This game showed what this year has been about for us." - 'We have to be self-critical' - Messi has been critical of the board this season and suggested everyone at the club should take their share of the blame. "After the break Madrid have not lost any games and they deserve credit for that but we have also helped them a lot," said Messi. "We lost a lot of games that we should not have lost and we have to be self-critical, starting with the players, but it has to be a total self-criticism from everyone because we are Barcelona and we are obliged to win the matches whatever happens and instead look at us." If Barcelona come through against Napoli, they will face Bayern Munich in the last eight, with a compressed format of single legs all the way through to the final. "I think we need a little air, this break will be good for us, to clear our heads, forget about everything that has happened," said Messi. "It has been very bad from December until now but it is the Champions League and there are four games that can give you a trophy that we all want. But we have to change a lot and be very self-critical."

Messi predicts Champions League failure if Barca fail to change

Tokyo 2020 organisers said Friday they have secured all the venues needed to hold the Olympics next summer, clearing a major hurdle to hosting the event postponed over the coronavirus.

Refunds for ticket holders unable to attend the rescheduled games will begin in late 2020, they added.

Tokyo 2020 reported the progress during an online meeting with the International Olympic Committee, confirming that the delayed Games will use all the venues originally booked for the event.

The 2021 event schedule will also be largely the same as the original, except for small changes made for logistical reasons, said Hidemasa Nakamura, Tokyo 2020 games delivery officer.

"There is still work to be done. But we have arrived at a major milestone," Nakamura told a briefing in Tokyo ahead of the IOC meeting.

With the schedule set, athletes can now begin to prepare in earnest for the delayed Games, due to open on July 23, 2021, said Koji Murofushi, Tokyo 2020 sports director.

"Now athletes aiming to take part in the Tokyo Olympics can set concrete goals to work toward," he said.

The Games' unprecedented delay has caused major logistical headaches and the final price tag for the postponement remains unclear.

Nakamura said organisers were continuing to discuss where to slash costs, adding that changes to "the opening and closing ceremonies are also on the table".

Among the myriad additional costs yet to be tallied will be compensation for businesses that have had their reservations at Olympic venues cancelled to make way for rescheduled events.

Tokyo 2020 organisers said Friday they have secured all the venues needed to hold the Olympics next summer, clearing a major hurdle to hosting the event postponed over the coronavirus.

Tokyo 2020 organisers said Friday they have secured all the venues needed to hold the Olympics next summer, clearing a major hurdle to hosting the event postponed over the coronavirus. Refunds for ticket holders unable to attend the rescheduled games will begin in late 2020, they added. Tokyo 2020 reported the progress during an online meeting with the International Olympic Committee, confirming that the delayed Games will use all the venues originally booked for the event. The 2021 event schedule will also be largely the same as the original, except for small changes made for logistical reasons, said Hidemasa Nakamura, Tokyo 2020 games delivery officer. "There is still work to be done. But we have arrived at a major milestone," Nakamura told a briefing in Tokyo ahead of the IOC meeting. With the schedule set, athletes can now begin to prepare in earnest for the delayed Games, due to open on July 23, 2021, said Koji Murofushi, Tokyo 2020 sports director. "Now athletes aiming to take part in the Tokyo Olympics can set concrete goals to work toward," he said. The Games' unprecedented delay has caused major logistical headaches and the final price tag for the postponement remains unclear. Nakamura said organisers were continuing to discuss where to slash costs, adding that changes to "the opening and closing ceremonies are also on the table". Among the myriad additional costs yet to be tallied will be compensation for businesses that have had their reservations at Olympic venues cancelled to make way for rescheduled events.

Venues secured for delayed Tokyo 2020 Olympics: organisers

Thomas Bach said Friday he will stand in 2021 for a second term as president of the International Olympic Committee.

The 66-year-old German was elected for an eight-year term as Olympic chief in September 2013, taking over from Belgian Jacques Rogge. Bach will be eligible for a second and final four-year term.

Speaking at the 136th IOC Session, held virtually because of the coronavirus pandemic, Bach said: "If you, the IOC members, want, I am ready to run for a second term as IOC president and to continue to serve you and this Olympic movement we all love so much for another four years."

The IOC presidential elections are slated to take place in Athens in June 2021.

Bach, who won gold for West Germany in the foil fencing team event at the 1976 Olympics, claimed a large number of IOC members had recently approached him asking if he would seek re-election.

"I am grateful and deeply touched by the many words of encouragement and confidence," Bach said.

<h2>- Influential -</h2>

Elected an IOC member at the age of 37, Bach went on to play a series of influential roles within the organisation before being elected its ninth president.

He served as vice-president three times and was also chairman of the legal commission and head of anti-doping investigations.

Bach says his involvement in sports politics was sparked by West Germany's boycott of the 1980 Games in Moscow over the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan, and the government's disregard for athletes' concerns.

In 1981, he was elected as the Olympic athletes' spokesperson at the IOC Congress.

Under his reign as IOC chief, Bach has had to grapple with several political challenges, and has notably overseen the 2014 Sochi Winter Olympics and the 2016 Rio Summer Games, both perceived as the most troublesome in recent years.

He has also been a key player in the ongoing Russian doping saga, although the IOC came in for criticism from some quarters for not issuing Moscow with a blanket ban over its state-sponsored doping system.

Bach also came under fire for reinstating the Russian National Olympic Committee after the 2018 Pyeongchang Winter Olympics despite failed drugs tests there.

He is credited, however, with having put in place the Olympic Agenda 2020, reforms aimed at cutting costs and streamlining bidding processes to better attract potential host cities.

But the German lawyer and businessman could well have his biggest challenge ahead of him, in the form of the COVID-19 pandemic.

In a historic move, the Tokyo Olympics were in March postponed until 2021 -- a first in peacetime.

There are fears over whether the Games will even go ahead next year, while Beijing is scheduled to host the 2022 Winter Olympics, just six months later.

Thomas Bach said Friday he will stand in 2021 for a second term as president of the International Olympic Committee. The 66-year-old German was elected for an eight-year term as Olympic chief in September 2013, taking over from Belgian Jacques Rogge.

Thomas Bach said Friday he will stand in 2021 for a second term as president of the International Olympic Committee. The 66-year-old German was elected for an eight-year term as Olympic chief in September 2013, taking over from Belgian Jacques Rogge. Bach will be eligible for a second and final four-year term. Speaking at the 136th IOC Session, held virtually because of the coronavirus pandemic, Bach said: "If you, the IOC members, want, I am ready to run for a second term as IOC president and to continue to serve you and this Olympic movement we all love so much for another four years." The IOC presidential elections are slated to take place in Athens in June 2021. Bach, who won gold for West Germany in the foil fencing team event at the 1976 Olympics, claimed a large number of IOC members had recently approached him asking if he would seek re-election. "I am grateful and deeply touched by the many words of encouragement and confidence," Bach said. - Influential - Elected an IOC member at the age of 37, Bach went on to play a series of influential roles within the organisation before being elected its ninth president. He served as vice-president three times and was also chairman of the legal commission and head of anti-doping investigations. Bach says his involvement in sports politics was sparked by West Germany's boycott of the 1980 Games in Moscow over the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan, and the government's disregard for athletes' concerns. In 1981, he was elected as the Olympic athletes' spokesperson at the IOC Congress. Under his reign as IOC chief, Bach has had to grapple with several political challenges, and has notably overseen the 2014 Sochi Winter Olympics and the 2016 Rio Summer Games, both perceived as the most troublesome in recent years. He has also been a key player in the ongoing Russian doping saga, although the IOC came in for criticism from some quarters for not issuing Moscow with a blanket ban over its state-sponsored doping system. Bach also came under fire for reinstating the Russian National Olympic Committee after the 2018 Pyeongchang Winter Olympics despite failed drugs tests there. He is credited, however, with having put in place the Olympic Agenda 2020, reforms aimed at cutting costs and streamlining bidding processes to better attract potential host cities. But the German lawyer and businessman could well have his biggest challenge ahead of him, in the form of the COVID-19 pandemic. In a historic move, the Tokyo Olympics were in March postponed until 2021 -- a first in peacetime. There are fears over whether the Games will even go ahead next year, while Beijing is scheduled to host the 2022 Winter Olympics, just six months later.

Olympic chief Thomas Bach to stand for second term

A case dating back to 2012 has come to haunt the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and may cost the Indian board a staggering 640million USD (Rs 4,800 crore). Deccan Chargers, one of the first eight teams of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/ipl">Indian Premier League (IPL)</a>, had challenged the BCCI for ‘alleged illegal termination’ and the Bombay high court-appointed arbitrator has now passed an award in favour of the owner of the franchise – Deccan Chronicle Holdings (DCHL).&nbsp;

On September 15, 2012, the BCCI had announced the termination of Deccan Chargers following an emergency meeting. While DCHL, the then owners of the team, moved the Bombay high court, the BCCI initiated a new tender for the Hyderabad franchise, which was subsequently won by the Sun TV Network NSE 0.59 %.&nbsp;

The high court had appointed retired Supreme Court justice CK Thakkar as the sole arbitrator between the two parties eight years ago and on Friday, DCHL won the arbitration against the BCCI.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-apex-council-meeting-on-friday-ipl-2020-revamped-ftp-domestic-calendar-on-11-point-agenda-313706" hreflang="en">BCCI Apex Council meeting on Friday: IPL 2020, revamped FTP, domestic calendar on 11-point agenda</a>

The BCCI has been directed to pay a total of 640 million USD (Rs 4,800 crore), which includes various claims made by the DCHL by September 2020.&nbsp;

“We haven’t received the judgement copy yet, only after reading we will decide next plan of action,” Hemang Amin, interim CEO of the BCCI, told ET.&nbsp;

The entire episode started when media company DCHL failed to furnish a bank guarantee from a nationalized bank to the BCCI.&nbsp;

“However, in this case, the company (DCHL) is already under Corporate Insolvency Resolution Process (CIRP) and the lenders are acting fiduciaries. It will be difficult for the BCCI to deal with so many players,” said a senior lawyer as quoted by ET.

DCHL had acquired the rights of Hyderabad Franchise for $107 million in 2008 for a period of 10 years. DC won the second season of IPL. 
&nbsp;

A case dating back to 2012 has come to haunt the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and may cost the Indian board a staggering 640million USD (Rs 4,800 crore).

A case dating back to 2012 has come to haunt the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and may cost the Indian board a staggering 640million USD (Rs 4,800 crore). Deccan Chargers, one of the first eight teams of the Indian Premier League (IPL), had challenged the BCCI for ‘alleged illegal termination’ and the Bombay high court-appointed arbitrator has now passed an award in favour of the owner of the franchise – Deccan Chronicle Holdings (DCHL). On September 15, 2012, the BCCI had announced the termination of Deccan Chargers following an emergency meeting. While DCHL, the then owners of the team, moved the Bombay high court, the BCCI initiated a new tender for the Hyderabad franchise, which was subsequently won by the Sun TV Network NSE 0.59 %. The high court had appointed retired Supreme Court justice CK Thakkar as the sole arbitrator between the two parties eight years ago and on Friday, DCHL won the arbitration against the BCCI. ALSO READ: BCCI Apex Council meeting on Friday: IPL 2020, revamped FTP, domestic calendar on 11-point agenda The BCCI has been directed to pay a total of 640 million USD (Rs 4,800 crore), which includes various claims made by the DCHL by September 2020. “We haven’t received the judgement copy yet, only after reading we will decide next plan of action,” Hemang Amin, interim CEO of the BCCI, told ET. The entire episode started when media company DCHL failed to furnish a bank guarantee from a nationalized bank to the BCCI. “However, in this case, the company (DCHL) is already under Corporate Insolvency Resolution Process (CIRP) and the lenders are acting fiduciaries. It will be difficult for the BCCI to deal with so many players,” said a senior lawyer as quoted by ET. DCHL had acquired the rights of Hyderabad Franchise for $107 million in 2008 for a period of 10 years. DC won the second season of IPL.

IPL: BCCI asked to pay 640 million USD for 'wrongfully terminating' Deccan Chargers

A win in the Hungarian Grand Prix would move Lewis Hamilton within five of Michael Schumacher’s record 91 Grand Prix wins while also tying the Formula One great’s record for victories at a single track. Hamilton was in his elements to win the Styrian GP in Austria last weekend and looks all set to secure an eight successive win at the Hungaroring on Sunday.

Schumacher currently holds the record of bagging most wins – eight – at a single venue – French GP – when it was staged in Magny-Cours. Schumacher’s first win there was in 1994 - when Hamilton was enjoying a junior karting career that would send him to F1. Schumacher’s last win there came in 2006.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/hamilton-wants-racing-records-racial-justice-ahead-of-hungarian-gp-313636" hreflang="en">Hamilton wants racing records, racial justice ahead of Hungarian GP</a>

“Every time I’m reminded of the records Michael has, it’s just mind-blowing to me,” Hamilton said.&nbsp;

“How many wins, how many championships. Record after record. I’m constantly reminded of his greatness and of the success that he had.”

Hamilton’s first win at the Hungarian Grand Prix was in the year 2007, the year after Schumacher’s last win in France. Interestingly, Hamilton’s first win as a Mercedes driver was also in Hungary in the year 2013 – the year he replaced the retiring Schumacher at Mercedes.

“I’ve always loved it in Hungary. I don’t know why (but) there are tracks that we excel on,” the 35-year-old Hamilton said.

“Budapest and Montreal have been my strongest, particularly at the beginning of my career.”

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/lewis-hamilton-raises-a-fist-after-his-first-win-of-the-season-312968" hreflang="en">Lewis Hamilton raises a fist after his first win of the season</a>

Whereas, Hamilton is now chasing Schumacher’s record of seven F1 championships, having won every year since 2014 except in 2016 when his former Mercedes teammate Nico Rosberg bagged the top podium.&nbsp;

Hamilton looks almost untouchable as No. 1, as he showed with pole position last Saturday in the teeming rain in Austria. It was a record-extending 89th of his career — 21 more than Schumacher — and one of his best ever.

A win in the Hungarian Grand Prix would move Lewis Hamilton within five of Michael Schumacher’s record 91 Grand Prix wins while also tying the Formula One great’s record for victories at a single track.

A win in the Hungarian Grand Prix would move Lewis Hamilton within five of Michael Schumacher’s record 91 Grand Prix wins while also tying the Formula One great’s record for victories at a single track. Hamilton was in his elements to win the Styrian GP in Austria last weekend and looks all set to secure an eight successive win at the Hungaroring on Sunday. Schumacher currently holds the record of bagging most wins – eight – at a single venue – French GP – when it was staged in Magny-Cours. Schumacher’s first win there was in 1994 - when Hamilton was enjoying a junior karting career that would send him to F1. Schumacher’s last win there came in 2006. ALSO READ: Hamilton wants racing records, racial justice ahead of Hungarian GP “Every time I’m reminded of the records Michael has, it’s just mind-blowing to me,” Hamilton said. “How many wins, how many championships. Record after record. I’m constantly reminded of his greatness and of the success that he had.” Hamilton’s first win at the Hungarian Grand Prix was in the year 2007, the year after Schumacher’s last win in France. Interestingly, Hamilton’s first win as a Mercedes driver was also in Hungary in the year 2013 – the year he replaced the retiring Schumacher at Mercedes. “I’ve always loved it in Hungary. I don’t know why (but) there are tracks that we excel on,” the 35-year-old Hamilton said. “Budapest and Montreal have been my strongest, particularly at the beginning of my career.” ALSO READ: Lewis Hamilton raises a fist after his first win of the season Whereas, Hamilton is now chasing Schumacher’s record of seven F1 championships, having won every year since 2014 except in 2016 when his former Mercedes teammate Nico Rosberg bagged the top podium. Hamilton looks almost untouchable as No. 1, as he showed with pole position last Saturday in the teeming rain in Austria. It was a record-extending 89th of his career — 21 more than Schumacher — and one of his best ever.

Lewis Hamilton eyes Michael Schumacher's F1 track record with 8th win

Iconic tennis megastar Serena Williams is set to make her return to the WTA tour at a new hardcourt tournament, which is scheduled to be played in Kentucky in August, organisers confirmed on Thursday.

The Top Seed Open said that 23-time Grand Slam winner – Williams – and 2017 US Open Winner Sloane Stephens will be on the field when play commences on August 10.

It is to be noted that Williams hasn’t taken the court since representing the United States in the Fed Cup in February, before the WTA tour along with almost every global sport had to shut down due to COVID-19 pandemic.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/st-nick-how-combustible-kyrgios-became-voice-of-reason-313978" hreflang="en">'St. Nick' - how combustible Kyrgios became 'voice of reason'</a>

Both the WTA tour and the men’s ATP tour are scheduled to restart in August after a prolonged break due to coronavirus.

Williams has already confirmed her plans to enter the next scheduled Grand Slam tournament – the US Open – which is slated to begin in New York in August 31.

The Kentucky tournament was one of the two new events confirmed by the WTA chief executive Steve Simon last week as additions to the tour’s revamped calendar. WTA is scheduled to resume with the Palermo Open in Italy starting on August 3.

Tennis world was rocked when <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-am-deeply-sorry-we-were-wrong-novak-djokovic-issues-apology-on-adria-tour-after-testing-positive-for-coronavirus-308169">Novak Djokovic along with Grigor Dimitrov, Boran Coric and Viktor Troicki were tested positive for the dreaded virus</a> after the completion of the ill-fated Adria Tour.

While all of them have apologized, it remains to be seen how tennis world copes up with the health protocols and safety measures when WTA and ATP tour resume in August. 
&nbsp;

Iconic tennis megastar Serena Williams is set to make her return to the WTA tour at a new hardcourt tournament, which is scheduled to be played in Kentucky in August, organisers confirmed on Thursday.

Iconic tennis megastar Serena Williams is set to make her return to the WTA tour at a new hardcourt tournament, which is scheduled to be played in Kentucky in August, organisers confirmed on Thursday. The Top Seed Open said that 23-time Grand Slam winner – Williams – and 2017 US Open Winner Sloane Stephens will be on the field when play commences on August 10. It is to be noted that Williams hasn’t taken the court since representing the United States in the Fed Cup in February, before the WTA tour along with almost every global sport had to shut down due to COVID-19 pandemic. ALSO READ: 'St. Nick' - how combustible Kyrgios became 'voice of reason' Both the WTA tour and the men’s ATP tour are scheduled to restart in August after a prolonged break due to coronavirus. Williams has already confirmed her plans to enter the next scheduled Grand Slam tournament – the US Open – which is slated to begin in New York in August 31. The Kentucky tournament was one of the two new events confirmed by the WTA chief executive Steve Simon last week as additions to the tour’s revamped calendar. WTA is scheduled to resume with the Palermo Open in Italy starting on August 3. Tennis world was rocked when Novak Djokovic along with Grigor Dimitrov, Boran Coric and Viktor Troicki were tested positive for the dreaded virus after the completion of the ill-fated Adria Tour. While all of them have apologized, it remains to be seen how tennis world copes up with the health protocols and safety measures when WTA and ATP tour resume in August.

Serena Williams to play inaugural Kentucky tournament

The coronavirus has turned sport on its head and nowhere more so than in tennis, where the often-controversial Nick Kyrgios has been anointed as "St. Nick" for his moral leadership during the pandemic.

Best known for his flamboyant persona and spectacular on-court tantrums, Kyrgios has long been a provocative and polarising figure as he racked up a string of fines and bans.

But the combustible Australian has shown a different side in recent weeks as he took Novak Djokovic and other top players to task for their "stupidity" and risky behaviour.

It followed the world number one's decision to press ahead with an exhibition tournament in the Balkans, where social distancing was minimal. Djokovic, Grigor Dimitrov, Borna Coric and Viktor Troicki all tested positive for COVID-19.

"Don't @ me for anything I've done that has been 'irresponsible' or classified as 'stupidity' - this takes the cake," Kyrgios tweeted.

Kyrgios also lashed "selfish" Alexander Zverev after he was spotted partying despite vowing to self-isolate following Djokovic's Adria Tour, while questioning Dominic Thiem's intellect after the Austrian hit out at his criticism.

The exchanges follow Kyrgios's admirable, and often emotional, efforts to drum up support for victims of the devastating bushfires that ripped through Australia this year, earning him new respect.

Often lamented in the media as a loud mouth and wasted talent, Sydney's Daily Telegraph is now calling 40th-ranked Kyrgios the "voice of reason".

"Crazy events are happening every day in sport but the wackiest of all is Nick Kyrgios becoming a COVID crusader and the clear-thinking conscience of a twisted tennis world," it wrote recently. "St Nick. Moral guardian. Who'd a thunk it?"

Tennis great John Newcombe&nbsp;also praised him for calling out players flouting COVID-19 protocols, but suggested he should do so less publicly.

"I know when we were playing, if you had a problem you took it to the person. You didn't make it public. But it's a different world, I guess," he told reporters.

<h2>- 'Cringeworthy' -</h2>

The "new Nick" is not to everyone's liking, with some on social media suggesting he was using the pandemic to raise his profile and re-ignite feuds with players he doesn't get on with.

"He's trying to be relevant off the court cuz everyone knows he can't ever deliver on the court," said one user, while another suggested: "He's using the virus as an excuse to do what he's always done which is criticise other players on social media."

That criticism includes Djokovic, after last year Kyrgios said of the Serb: "I just feel like he has a sick obsession with wanting to be liked."

"This whole celebration thing (blowing kisses to the crowd) that he does after matches, it's like so cringeworthy," he added.

Kyrgios also has history with Zverev, whom he enraged in January by provocatively performing push-ups when the German was serving double faults during the ATP Cup.

While Kyrgios, 25, will always have his knockers, he also has a big fanbase with 1.4 million Instagram followers and hundreds of thousands on Twitter.

As Serena Williams' coach Patrick Mouratoglou noted this week: "He (Kyrgios) is one of the only guys beside the top three who fills up the stadiums."

"He is provocative and he exaggerates but that's how he is and that's why he is an interesting character and a lot of people like him," he added.

The Sydney Morning Herald suggested Kyrgios' COVID-19 criticisms were "part of an image-rebuild" that started with his bushfire fundraising after a series of on-court scandals last year.

"He has endorsements with Nike, Yonex and Beats headphones. Now that he is the world ambassador against tennis dickheads, he puts himself even more firmly into the hands of corporate image-makers," it wrote.

The coronavirus has turned sport on its head and nowhere more so than in tennis, where the often-controversial Nick Kyrgios has been anointed as "St. Nick" for his moral leadership during the pandemic.

The coronavirus has turned sport on its head and nowhere more so than in tennis, where the often-controversial Nick Kyrgios has been anointed as "St. Nick" for his moral leadership during the pandemic. Best known for his flamboyant persona and spectacular on-court tantrums, Kyrgios has long been a provocative and polarising figure as he racked up a string of fines and bans. But the combustible Australian has shown a different side in recent weeks as he took Novak Djokovic and other top players to task for their "stupidity" and risky behaviour. It followed the world number one's decision to press ahead with an exhibition tournament in the Balkans, where social distancing was minimal. Djokovic, Grigor Dimitrov, Borna Coric and Viktor Troicki all tested positive for COVID-19. "Don't @ me for anything I've done that has been 'irresponsible' or classified as 'stupidity' - this takes the cake," Kyrgios tweeted. Kyrgios also lashed "selfish" Alexander Zverev after he was spotted partying despite vowing to self-isolate following Djokovic's Adria Tour, while questioning Dominic Thiem's intellect after the Austrian hit out at his criticism. The exchanges follow Kyrgios's admirable, and often emotional, efforts to drum up support for victims of the devastating bushfires that ripped through Australia this year, earning him new respect. Often lamented in the media as a loud mouth and wasted talent, Sydney's Daily Telegraph is now calling 40th-ranked Kyrgios the "voice of reason". "Crazy events are happening every day in sport but the wackiest of all is Nick Kyrgios becoming a COVID crusader and the clear-thinking conscience of a twisted tennis world," it wrote recently. "St Nick. Moral guardian. Who'd a thunk it?" Tennis great John Newcombe also praised him for calling out players flouting COVID-19 protocols, but suggested he should do so less publicly. "I know when we were playing, if you had a problem you took it to the person. You didn't make it public. But it's a different world, I guess," he told reporters. - 'Cringeworthy' - The "new Nick" is not to everyone's liking, with some on social media suggesting he was using the pandemic to raise his profile and re-ignite feuds with players he doesn't get on with. "He's trying to be relevant off the court cuz everyone knows he can't ever deliver on the court," said one user, while another suggested: "He's using the virus as an excuse to do what he's always done which is criticise other players on social media." That criticism includes Djokovic, after last year Kyrgios said of the Serb: "I just feel like he has a sick obsession with wanting to be liked." "This whole celebration thing (blowing kisses to the crowd) that he does after matches, it's like so cringeworthy," he added. Kyrgios also has history with Zverev, whom he enraged in January by provocatively performing push-ups when the German was serving double faults during the ATP Cup. While Kyrgios, 25, will always have his knockers, he also has a big fanbase with 1.4 million Instagram followers and hundreds of thousands on Twitter. As Serena Williams' coach Patrick Mouratoglou noted this week: "He (Kyrgios) is one of the only guys beside the top three who fills up the stadiums." "He is provocative and he exaggerates but that's how he is and that's why he is an interesting character and a lot of people like him," he added. The Sydney Morning Herald suggested Kyrgios' COVID-19 criticisms were "part of an image-rebuild" that started with his bushfire fundraising after a series of on-court scandals last year. "He has endorsements with Nike, Yonex and Beats headphones. Now that he is the world ambassador against tennis dickheads, he puts himself even more firmly into the hands of corporate image-makers," it wrote.

'St. Nick' - how combustible Kyrgios became 'voice of reason'

"All lives don't matter until black lives matter," former South Africa captain and star batsman Faf du Plessis said on Friday, lending support to the fight against racism that has gripped the world with renewed vigour after African-American George Floyd's death.

Offering his views on the 'Black Lives Matter' movement, which found support in the ongoing England-West Indies Test series where players from both sides took a knee in the opening match, du Plessis said time has come to fight racism head on.

"In the last couple of months I have realised that we must choose our battles. We are surrounded by many injustices in our country that require urgent attention and action to fix them," the 36-year-old du Plessis posted on instagram.

Floyd became a symbol of the anti-racism movement after he was killed at the hands of a white police officer in Minneapolis, triggering widespread protests across the US and the world.

"So I've remained silent, with the intent to listen, but not respond. Slowing down my point of view, but quicker to hear the pain of someone else. I surrender my opinions and take the knee as an intercessor.

"I acknowledge that South Africa is still hugely divided by racism and it is my personal responsibility to do my best to emphasize, hear the stories, learn and then be part of the solution with my thoughts, words and actions," du Plessis added.

This is in stark contrast to his past stance of rejecting talk of racism. He had said that "we don't see colour" when asked about Temba Bavuma's axing earlier this year.

"I have gotten it wrong before. Good intentions were failed by a lack of perspective when I said on a platform that - I don't see colour. In my ignorance I silenced the struggles of others by placing my own view on it," du Plessis said.

"A race problem is a human race problem, if one part of the body hurts ,we all stop, we empathize, we get perspective, we learn and then we tend to the hurting part of the body."

His teammate and pacer Lungi Ngidi has stated that the team will discuss a way to support the BLM movement when it has a chance at a group discussion. The players have restarted training after a prolonged break caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Du Plessis said the BLM movement has his full support.

"So I am saying that all lives don't matter UNTIL black lives matter. I'm speaking up now, because if I wait to be perfect, I never will. I want to leave a legacy of empathy," he said.

"The work needs to continue for the change to come and whether we agree or disagree, conversation is the vehicle for change," he added.

"All lives don't matter until black lives matter," former South Africa captain and star batsman Faf du Plessis said on Friday, lending support to the fight against racism that has gripped the world with renewed vigour after African-American George Floyd's death.

"All lives don't matter until black lives matter," former South Africa captain and star batsman Faf du Plessis said on Friday, lending support to the fight against racism that has gripped the world with renewed vigour after African-American George Floyd's death. Offering his views on the 'Black Lives Matter' movement, which found support in the ongoing England-West Indies Test series where players from both sides took a knee in the opening match, du Plessis said time has come to fight racism head on. "In the last couple of months I have realised that we must choose our battles. We are surrounded by many injustices in our country that require urgent attention and action to fix them," the 36-year-old du Plessis posted on instagram. Floyd became a symbol of the anti-racism movement after he was killed at the hands of a white police officer in Minneapolis, triggering widespread protests across the US and the world. "So I've remained silent, with the intent to listen, but not respond. Slowing down my point of view, but quicker to hear the pain of someone else. I surrender my opinions and take the knee as an intercessor. "I acknowledge that South Africa is still hugely divided by racism and it is my personal responsibility to do my best to emphasize, hear the stories, learn and then be part of the solution with my thoughts, words and actions," du Plessis added. This is in stark contrast to his past stance of rejecting talk of racism. He had said that "we don't see colour" when asked about Temba Bavuma's axing earlier this year. "I have gotten it wrong before. Good intentions were failed by a lack of perspective when I said on a platform that - I don't see colour. In my ignorance I silenced the struggles of others by placing my own view on it," du Plessis said. "A race problem is a human race problem, if one part of the body hurts ,we all stop, we empathize, we get perspective, we learn and then we tend to the hurting part of the body." His teammate and pacer Lungi Ngidi has stated that the team will discuss a way to support the BLM movement when it has a chance at a group discussion. The players have restarted training after a prolonged break caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Du Plessis said the BLM movement has his full support. "So I am saying that all lives don't matter UNTIL black lives matter. I'm speaking up now, because if I wait to be perfect, I never will. I want to leave a legacy of empathy," he said. "The work needs to continue for the change to come and whether we agree or disagree, conversation is the vehicle for change," he added.

All lives don't matter until black lives matter: Faf Du Plessis

English speedster <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/eng-vs-wi-jofra-archer-dropped-from-2nd-test-for-breaching-teams-bio-secure-protocols-313649">Jofra Archer’s breach of bio-secure protocols </a>could have led to a “disaster” and ended up costing the England and Wales Cricket Board tens of millions of pounds, ECB director of cricket Ashley Giles has said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/eng-vs-wi-jofra-archer-dropped-from-2nd-test-for-breaching-teams-bio-secure-protocols-313649">Archer was dropped by England from the second Test against the West Indies</a> after he was found to have breached the protocols. The ECB announced the decision only hours before the start of the second Test at the Old Trafford in Manchester on Thursday.&nbsp;

While ECB didn’t clarify the nature of the violation but as per media reports, the Barbados-born 25-year-old had exited the bio-secure bubble to go to his flat in Brighton following the series opener in Southampton.&nbsp;

<h2>This could have been a disaster: Giles</h2>

“This could have been a disaster. The ripple effect this could have had through the whole summer could have cost us tens of millions of pounds,” Giles said.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-have-no-sympathy-at-all-michael-holding-lashes-out-at-jofra-archer-questions-ecbs-bio-secure-protocols-313783" hreflang="en">'I have no sympathy at all' - Michael Holding lashes out at Jofra Archer, questions ECB's 'bio-secure' protocols</a>

“The potential knock-on effect I don’t think he could have understood. He’s a young man, young men make mistakes. He has to learn from them.”

Archer, who has since apologized for his mistake, has started a five-day isolation period and will have two COVID-19 tests. England coach Chris Silverwood is of the view that the player would receive plenty of support. &nbsp;

“He knows he has done that and we will support him the best we can,” Silverwood said.

“He’s got five days stuck in a hotel room, so we’ve got to make sure he’s alright from a well-being point of view, that we look after him.”

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2020-uae-keeping-itself-ready-in-case-the-call-comes-from-bcci-313951" hreflang="en">IPL 2020: UAE keeping itself ready in case the call comes from BCCI</a>

In the absence of Archer, England opted to field the troika of Stuart Broad, Chris Woakes and Sam Curran with Ben Stokes being the fourth seamer in the team.&nbsp;

England were invited to bat first and the hosts enjoyed a superb day on the field on Day 1 as they ended up posting 207/3 with Dom Sibley and Stokes at the crease. 
&nbsp;

English speedster Jofra Archer’s breach of bio-secure protocols could have led to a “disaster” and ended up costing the England and Wales Cricket Board tens of millions of pounds, ECB director of cricket Ashley Giles has said.

English speedster Jofra Archer’s breach of bio-secure protocols could have led to a “disaster” and ended up costing the England and Wales Cricket Board tens of millions of pounds, ECB director of cricket Ashley Giles has said. Archer was dropped by England from the second Test against the West Indies after he was found to have breached the protocols. The ECB announced the decision only hours before the start of the second Test at the Old Trafford in Manchester on Thursday. While ECB didn’t clarify the nature of the violation but as per media reports, the Barbados-born 25-year-old had exited the bio-secure bubble to go to his flat in Brighton following the series opener in Southampton. This could have been a disaster: Giles “This could have been a disaster. The ripple effect this could have had through the whole summer could have cost us tens of millions of pounds,” Giles said. ALSO READ: 'I have no sympathy at all' - Michael Holding lashes out at Jofra Archer, questions ECB's 'bio-secure' protocols “The potential knock-on effect I don’t think he could have understood. He’s a young man, young men make mistakes. He has to learn from them.” Archer, who has since apologized for his mistake, has started a five-day isolation period and will have two COVID-19 tests. England coach Chris Silverwood is of the view that the player would receive plenty of support. “He knows he has done that and we will support him the best we can,” Silverwood said. “He’s got five days stuck in a hotel room, so we’ve got to make sure he’s alright from a well-being point of view, that we look after him.” ALSO READ: IPL 2020: UAE keeping itself ready in case the call comes from BCCI In the absence of Archer, England opted to field the troika of Stuart Broad, Chris Woakes and Sam Curran with Ben Stokes being the fourth seamer in the team. England were invited to bat first and the hosts enjoyed a superb day on the field on Day 1 as they ended up posting 207/3 with Dom Sibley and Stokes at the crease.

Jofra Archer's breach could have cost ECB millions, says Ashley Giles

As speculations continue to grow that the currently suspended <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/ipl">Indian Premier league (IPL) 2020</a> could be held in the UAE due to rising caseload of COVID-19 in India, Dubai Sports City’s Head of Cricket and Events Salman Hanif has said that they are keeping the stadiums and facilities ready in case the BCCI takes the call to move the cash-rich tournament abroad.

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/ipl">IPL</a> is looking at the September-early November window and with the T20 World Cup 2020 likely to be postponed, the BCCI might look to shift the 13th edition of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/ipl">IP</a>L to the UAE.

Speaking to ‘Gulf News’ Hanif said that the Dubai Sports City, which included the Dubai International Stadium and the ICC Academy, is ready a potential venue for the glitzy T20 league.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-apex-council-meeting-on-friday-ipl-2020-revamped-ftp-domestic-calendar-on-11-point-agenda-313706" hreflang="en">BCCI Apex Council meeting on Friday: IPL 2020, revamped FTP, domestic calendar on 11-point agenda</a>

“The stadium has nine wickets on the top in case a large number of matches have to be accommodated within a smaller time-frame. We will not be scheduling any matches there to keep the wickets fresh,” said Hanif.

While case count in India has crossed the 10 lakh-mark, including over 25,000 deaths, the UAE has recorded more than 50,000 cases with over 300 deaths.&nbsp;

BCCI president Sourav Ganguly has already said that the board is keen to conduct the IPL even if has to be moved abroad. And if the IPL manages to book the September-November window for itself, the eight franchises would want their players to land in the UAE a bit early in a bid to earn time for practice.&nbsp;

“The practice facilities are never going to be a problem as we have hosted multi-team events before. In the ICC complex alone, there are 38 wickets – spread over the two Oval grounds, the simulated turf wickets as well as the state-of-the-art indoor facilities in case they want to beat the heat,” Hanif said. 
&nbsp;

As speculations continue to grow that the currently suspended Indian Premier league (IPL) 2020 could be held in the UAE due to rising caseload of COVID-19 in India, Dubai Sports City’s Head of Cricket and Events Salman Hanif has said that they are keeping the stadiums and facilities ready in case the BCCI takes the call to move the cash-rich tournament abroad.

As speculations continue to grow that the currently suspended Indian Premier league (IPL) 2020 could be held in the UAE due to rising caseload of COVID-19 in India, Dubai Sports City’s Head of Cricket and Events Salman Hanif has said that they are keeping the stadiums and facilities ready in case the BCCI takes the call to move the cash-rich tournament abroad. The IPL is looking at the September-early November window and with the T20 World Cup 2020 likely to be postponed, the BCCI might look to shift the 13th edition of IPL to the UAE. Speaking to ‘Gulf News’ Hanif said that the Dubai Sports City, which included the Dubai International Stadium and the ICC Academy, is ready a potential venue for the glitzy T20 league. ALSO READ: BCCI Apex Council meeting on Friday: IPL 2020, revamped FTP, domestic calendar on 11-point agenda “The stadium has nine wickets on the top in case a large number of matches have to be accommodated within a smaller time-frame. We will not be scheduling any matches there to keep the wickets fresh,” said Hanif. While case count in India has crossed the 10 lakh-mark, including over 25,000 deaths, the UAE has recorded more than 50,000 cases with over 300 deaths. BCCI president Sourav Ganguly has already said that the board is keen to conduct the IPL even if has to be moved abroad. And if the IPL manages to book the September-November window for itself, the eight franchises would want their players to land in the UAE a bit early in a bid to earn time for practice. “The practice facilities are never going to be a problem as we have hosted multi-team events before. In the ICC complex alone, there are 38 wickets – spread over the two Oval grounds, the simulated turf wickets as well as the state-of-the-art indoor facilities in case they want to beat the heat,” Hanif said.

IPL 2020: UAE keeping itself ready in case the call comes from BCCI

England’s Jofra Archer has been dropped from the second Test against the West Indies starting today (Thursday 16 July) at Emirates Old Trafford following a breach of the team’s bio-secure protocols, the ECB said.&nbsp;

Archer will now start a five-day isolation period while undergoing two COVID-19 tests in this period, which have to test negative before his self-isolation phase is lifted.

Visiting team – the West Indies – have been made aware of the incident and are satisfied with the measures that have been imposed.

“I am extremely sorry for what I have done,” said Archer upon his exclusion from the second Test, which is a do-or-die for England.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/eng-vs-wi-2nd-test-england-captain-root-returns-as-west-indies-eye-series-win-313635" hreflang="en">ENG vs WI 2nd Test: England captain Root returns as West Indies eye series win</a>

Jofra acknowledged the fact that his mistake has put himself and the entire team and management in danger while accepting the consequences of his action. The Barbadian-born English speedster apologized to everyone in the bio-secure bubble.

“I have put, not only myself, but the whole team and management in danger. I fully accept the consequences of my actions, and I want to sincerely apologise to everyone in the bio-secure bubble.

“It deeply pains me to be missing the Test match, especially with the series poised. I feel like I have let both teams down, and again I am sorry.”

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-southampton-test-erased-swing-doubts-says-ball-maker-313470" hreflang="en">Cricket: Southampton test erased swing doubts, says ball-maker</a>

Archer’s exclusion comes as a huge blow to England, who already rested James Anderson and Mark Wood from the second Test squad and the hosts will now have to look towards the veteran Stuart Broad. It would be interesting to see who out of Chris Woakes, Sam Curran and Ollie Robinson get the nod in the playing XI.

The West Indies started the series with a bang and head into the second Test with a 1-0 lead. The match will be played at the Old Trafford in Manchester. 
&nbsp;

England’s Jofra Archer has been dropped from the second Test against the West Indies starting today (Thursday 16 July) at Emirates Old Trafford following a breach of the team’s bio-secure protocols, the ECB said.

England’s Jofra Archer has been dropped from the second Test against the West Indies starting today (Thursday 16 July) at Emirates Old Trafford following a breach of the team’s bio-secure protocols, the ECB said. Archer will now start a five-day isolation period while undergoing two COVID-19 tests in this period, which have to test negative before his self-isolation phase is lifted. Visiting team – the West Indies – have been made aware of the incident and are satisfied with the measures that have been imposed. “I am extremely sorry for what I have done,” said Archer upon his exclusion from the second Test, which is a do-or-die for England. ALSO READ: ENG vs WI 2nd Test: England captain Root returns as West Indies eye series win Jofra acknowledged the fact that his mistake has put himself and the entire team and management in danger while accepting the consequences of his action. The Barbadian-born English speedster apologized to everyone in the bio-secure bubble. “I have put, not only myself, but the whole team and management in danger. I fully accept the consequences of my actions, and I want to sincerely apologise to everyone in the bio-secure bubble. “It deeply pains me to be missing the Test match, especially with the series poised. I feel like I have let both teams down, and again I am sorry.” ALSO READ: Cricket: Southampton test erased swing doubts, says ball-maker Archer’s exclusion comes as a huge blow to England, who already rested James Anderson and Mark Wood from the second Test squad and the hosts will now have to look towards the veteran Stuart Broad. It would be interesting to see who out of Chris Woakes, Sam Curran and Ollie Robinson get the nod in the playing XI. The West Indies started the series with a bang and head into the second Test with a 1-0 lead. The match will be played at the Old Trafford in Manchester.

ENG vs WI: Jofra Archer dropped from 2nd Test for breaching team’s bio-secure protocols

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