<p>It was a moment of celebration for cricket fans across the world as they witnessed the return of international cricket after three months. It was clear that the match being played at the Ageas Bowl in Southampton, United Kingdom, between England and West Indies, was about more than just the game. It was also about the sheer joy of live cricket.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Twitter became the perfect sports companion for cricket fans as it united them, encouraging public conversation and dialogue, in the true spirit of the game.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Welcome back, cricket!<br />
<br />
You've been missed ❤️ <a href="https://t.co/G5HOBL44GE">pic.twitter.com/G5HOBL44GE</a></p>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1280102403312963584?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 6, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>The hashtag #ENGvWI made it to the top of India trends chart as Indian cricketers and fans celebrated the return of cricket. Indian cricketers like Rohit Sharma, Ajinkya Rahane,&nbsp;R.Ashwin and many others, shared their joy in Tweets.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-monty-panesar-on-england-vs-west-indies-series-ben-stokes-new-norms-and-more-311445" hreflang="en">Exclusive: Monty Panesar on England vs West Indies series, Ben Stokes, new norms and more</a></strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Cricket is back 😃Positive scenes coming out from UK. So good to finally see some cricket being played. Wishing both teams the best. Can’t wait to be out there myself 🤞 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/EngVsWI?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#EngVsWI</a></p>
— Rohit Sharma (@ImRo45) <a href="https://twitter.com/ImRo45/status/1280869910860582913?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 8, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Cricket is BACK! 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿🏏<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ENGvWI?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ENGvWI</a> <a href="https://t.co/rlL5Qu5CxK">pic.twitter.com/rlL5Qu5CxK</a></p>
— England Cricket (@englandcricket) <a href="https://twitter.com/englandcricket/status/1280923818333212675?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 8, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">So nice to see that cricket is back!<br />
Good luck to both the teams!<br />
Can’t wait to get back on the field again<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ENGvWI?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ENGvWI</a></p>
— Ajinkya Rahane (@ajinkyarahane88) <a href="https://twitter.com/ajinkyarahane88/status/1280890256644993030?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 8, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">“Whatever happens from here on in, cricket will be the winner”<br />
The above statement has been used so many times in the past, today is one day where it will fit in perfectly. Good luck to both the teams. 👍🏻👍🏻 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/cricketisback?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#cricketisback</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ENGvsWI?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ENGvsWI</a></p>
— Ashwin (During Covid 19)🇮🇳 (@ashwinravi99) <a href="https://twitter.com/ashwinravi99/status/1280877939173842944?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 8, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Live cricket returns today. Here's hoping for a successful and safe series. And hoping it leads the start of live cricket all over the world with precautions of course. Good luck to both teams. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ENGvWI?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ENGvWI</a></p>
— Wasim Jaffer (@WasimJaffer14) <a href="https://twitter.com/WasimJaffer14/status/1280757204111560704?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 8, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>Not only cricketers but fans were also left ecstatic by the return of international cricket after 117 days. Fans posted photos from the match, images of Kemar Roach opening the bowling for the West Indies and even Dom Sibley departing for a duck.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Finally , Cricket is Back and Its Trending No.1 in india . Good Riddance from those Racist , Negative &amp; sometimes Paid No.1 trends we have been seeing since past 4 months . Sports is a Healer .<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ENGvWI?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ENGvWI</a> <a href="https://t.co/bXE37mbMbq">pic.twitter.com/bXE37mbMbq</a></p>
— Vivek Sharma (@IMViiku) <a href="https://twitter.com/IMViiku/status/1280857783110217733?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 8, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">We have seen numerous tosses in Cricket, but this one will be surely remembered forever 🙌<br />
<br />
Welcome back, Cricket! ❤<br />
You have always been there in our minds, just missed you at the ground 😍<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ENGvWI?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ENGvWI</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/cricketisback?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#cricketisback</a> <a href="https://t.co/0sXOidaeTt">pic.twitter.com/0sXOidaeTt</a></p>
— North Stand Gang - Wankhede (@NorthStandGang) <a href="https://twitter.com/NorthStandGang/status/1280925563440545796?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 8, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Welcome Back Cricket 😊☺️ we've Missed you 🤗🏏🏏 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ENGvWI?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ENGvWI</a> <a href="https://t.co/uTZP18RcYK">pic.twitter.com/uTZP18RcYK</a></p>
— Adil Rasheed🇮🇳 (@imadilr) <a href="https://twitter.com/imadilr/status/1280857965948547072?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 8, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>Even though rain gods played spoilsport on Day 1 of the Southampton Test, fans were jumping in joy as Windies and English players walked onto the Ageas Bowl to start the proceedings.&nbsp;</p>

<p>England on Day 1 lost Sibley for a 10-ball duck before Shannon Gabriel wreaked havoc to the scalp two more on Day 2 - Rory Burns and Joe Denly - as the hosts found themselves in a spot of bother after opting to bat first.&nbsp;</p>


It was a moment of celebration for cricket fans across the world as they witnessed the return of international cricket after three months. It was clear that the match being played at the Ageas Bowl in Southampton, United Kingdom, between England and West Indies, was about more than just the game.

It was a moment of celebration for cricket fans across the world as they witnessed the return of international cricket after three months. It was clear that the match being played at the Ageas Bowl in Southampton, United Kingdom, between England and West Indies, was about more than just the game. It was also about the sheer joy of live cricket. Twitter became the perfect sports companion for cricket fans as it united them, encouraging public conversation and dialogue, in the true spirit of the game. Welcome back, cricket! You've been missed ❤️ pic.twitter.com/G5HOBL44GE — ICC (@ICC) July 6, 2020 × The hashtag #ENGvWI made it to the top of India trends chart as Indian cricketers and fans celebrated the return of cricket. Indian cricketers like Rohit Sharma, Ajinkya Rahane, R.Ashwin and many others, shared their joy in Tweets. ALSO READ: Exclusive: Monty Panesar on England vs West Indies series, Ben Stokes, new norms and more Cricket is back 😃Positive scenes coming out from UK. So good to finally see some cricket being played. Wishing both teams the best. Can’t wait to be out there myself 🤞 #EngVsWI — Rohit Sharma (@ImRo45) July 8, 2020 × Cricket is BACK! 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿🏏#ENGvWI pic.twitter.com/rlL5Qu5CxK — England Cricket (@englandcricket) July 8, 2020 × So nice to see that cricket is back! Good luck to both the teams! Can’t wait to get back on the field again#ENGvWI — Ajinkya Rahane (@ajinkyarahane88) July 8, 2020 × “Whatever happens from here on in, cricket will be the winner” The above statement has been used so many times in the past, today is one day where it will fit in perfectly. Good luck to both the teams. 👍🏻👍🏻 #cricketisback #ENGvsWI — Ashwin (During Covid 19)🇮🇳 (@ashwinravi99) July 8, 2020 × Live cricket returns today. Here's hoping for a successful and safe series. And hoping it leads the start of live cricket all over the world with precautions of course. Good luck to both teams. #ENGvWI — Wasim Jaffer (@WasimJaffer14) July 8, 2020 × Not only cricketers but fans were also left ecstatic by the return of international cricket after 117 days. Fans posted photos from the match, images of Kemar Roach opening the bowling for the West Indies and even Dom Sibley departing for a duck. Finally , Cricket is Back and Its Trending No.1 in india . Good Riddance from those Racist , Negative & sometimes Paid No.1 trends we have been seeing since past 4 months . Sports is a Healer .#ENGvWI pic.twitter.com/bXE37mbMbq — Vivek Sharma (@IMViiku) July 8, 2020 × We have seen numerous tosses in Cricket, but this one will be surely remembered forever 🙌 Welcome back, Cricket! ❤ You have always been there in our minds, just missed you at the ground 😍#ENGvWI #cricketisback pic.twitter.com/0sXOidaeTt — North Stand Gang - Wankhede (@NorthStandGang) July 8, 2020 × Welcome Back Cricket 😊☺️ we've Missed you 🤗🏏🏏 #ENGvWI pic.twitter.com/uTZP18RcYK — Adil Rasheed🇮🇳 (@imadilr) July 8, 2020 × Even though rain gods played spoilsport on Day 1 of the Southampton Test, fans were jumping in joy as Windies and English players walked onto the Ageas Bowl to start the proceedings. England on Day 1 lost Sibley for a 10-ball duck before Shannon Gabriel wreaked havoc to the scalp two more on Day 2 - Rory Burns and Joe Denly - as the hosts found themselves in a spot of bother after opting to bat first.

Cricket fans celebrate the return of international cricket #ENGvWI on Twitter

<p>Four-time Tour de France winner Chris Froome will leave Team Ineos at the end of the season, the cycling outfit announced on Thursday, with reports saying he is joining Israel Start-Up Nation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Froome, Britain's most successful rider, won the Tour de France four times in five years from 2013 in the colours of Team Sky, which last year became Team Ineos.</p>

<p>Team Ineos boss Dave Brailsford hailed Froome as a "great champion" but said it was the right time to part ways.</p>

<p>He said Froome was keen to have sole team leadership but Team Ineos, with fellow Tour de France winners Geraint Thomas and Egan Bernal in its ranks, was unable to give that guarantee.</p>

<p>"Chris's current contract comes to an end in December and we have taken the decision now not to renew it," Brailsford said.</p>

<p>"We are making this announcement earlier than would usually be the case to put an end to recent speculation and allow the team to focus on the season ahead."</p>

<p>Froome, 35, said: "It has been a phenomenal decade with the team. We have achieved so much together and I will always treasure the memories.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I look forward to exciting new challenges as I move into the next phase of my career but in the meantime my focus is on winning a fifth Tour de France with Team Ineos."</p>

<h2>- Injury -</h2>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>Froome was seriously injured when he crashed at the Criterium de Dauphine in June 2019 and spent months in rehabilition, missing that year's Tour de France.</p>

<p>After winning the Vuelta a Espana in 2017 and the Giro d'Italia in 2018 Froome held all three Grand Tours but his star has since waned.</p>

<p>Froome's teammate Thomas emerged as the 2018 winner of the Tour de France while Colombian protege Bernal claimed the 2019 title.</p>

<p>He only returned fully to the saddle in February this year at the UAE Tour, which was cut short due to the coronavirus pandemic.</p>

<p>Froome wants to win a fifth Tour de France crown to equal the record held by Eddy Merckx, Bernard Hinault, Jacques Anquetil and Miguel Indurain.</p>

<p>The postponed tour is set to be raced from August 29 to September 20.</p>

<p>Deep-pocketed Team Sky, backed by Rupert Murdoch's media empire, were known for Brailsford's meticulous and innovative application of "marginal gains", the theory that many small advantages in areas as diverse as wind resistance, diet and sleep quality can add up to a significant improvement in performance.</p>

<p>However, their image was clouded in controversy over so-called therapeutic use exemptions, after a damning British parliamentary report said the team crossed an "ethical line" by using the loophole to administer drugs to enhance performance.</p>

<p>Sky were caught in a long-running doping controversy that began when Froome returned an adverse doping test, for elevated levels of the asthma medication salbutamol, on his way to victory in the Vuelta a Espana in 2017. He was cleared 10 months later.</p>

<p>Froome said that during the 2015 Tour de France a cup of urine was thrown at him following accusations he was doping. He has always maintained he is a clean rider.</p>

<p>Team Ineos also have plenty of detractors within cycling for tactics that many believe stifle racing.</p>

<p>Their superior budget allowed them to employ riders who would be leaders elsewhere in a support capacity and effectively shut down attacks in the biggest races, something that has proved unpopular with many, particularly in the Tour de France.</p>


Four-time Tour de France winner Chris Froome will leave Team Ineos at the end of the season, the cycling outfit announced on Thursday, with reports saying he is joining Israel Start-Up Nation.

Four-time Tour de France winner Chris Froome will leave Team Ineos at the end of the season, the cycling outfit announced on Thursday, with reports saying he is joining Israel Start-Up Nation. Froome, Britain's most successful rider, won the Tour de France four times in five years from 2013 in the colours of Team Sky, which last year became Team Ineos. Team Ineos boss Dave Brailsford hailed Froome as a "great champion" but said it was the right time to part ways. He said Froome was keen to have sole team leadership but Team Ineos, with fellow Tour de France winners Geraint Thomas and Egan Bernal in its ranks, was unable to give that guarantee. "Chris's current contract comes to an end in December and we have taken the decision now not to renew it," Brailsford said. "We are making this announcement earlier than would usually be the case to put an end to recent speculation and allow the team to focus on the season ahead." Froome, 35, said: "It has been a phenomenal decade with the team. We have achieved so much together and I will always treasure the memories. "I look forward to exciting new challenges as I move into the next phase of my career but in the meantime my focus is on winning a fifth Tour de France with Team Ineos." - Injury - Froome was seriously injured when he crashed at the Criterium de Dauphine in June 2019 and spent months in rehabilition, missing that year's Tour de France. After winning the Vuelta a Espana in 2017 and the Giro d'Italia in 2018 Froome held all three Grand Tours but his star has since waned. Froome's teammate Thomas emerged as the 2018 winner of the Tour de France while Colombian protege Bernal claimed the 2019 title. He only returned fully to the saddle in February this year at the UAE Tour, which was cut short due to the coronavirus pandemic. Froome wants to win a fifth Tour de France crown to equal the record held by Eddy Merckx, Bernard Hinault, Jacques Anquetil and Miguel Indurain. The postponed tour is set to be raced from August 29 to September 20. Deep-pocketed Team Sky, backed by Rupert Murdoch's media empire, were known for Brailsford's meticulous and innovative application of "marginal gains", the theory that many small advantages in areas as diverse as wind resistance, diet and sleep quality can add up to a significant improvement in performance. However, their image was clouded in controversy over so-called therapeutic use exemptions, after a damning British parliamentary report said the team crossed an "ethical line" by using the loophole to administer drugs to enhance performance. Sky were caught in a long-running doping controversy that began when Froome returned an adverse doping test, for elevated levels of the asthma medication salbutamol, on his way to victory in the Vuelta a Espana in 2017. He was cleared 10 months later. Froome said that during the 2015 Tour de France a cup of urine was thrown at him following accusations he was doping. He has always maintained he is a clean rider. Team Ineos also have plenty of detractors within cycling for tactics that many believe stifle racing. Their superior budget allowed them to employ riders who would be leaders elsewhere in a support capacity and effectively shut down attacks in the biggest races, something that has proved unpopular with many, particularly in the Tour de France.

Chris Froome to leave Team Ineos at end of season

<p>South African speedster Lungi Ngidi received some flak from former South Africa cricketers, Boeta Dippenaar and Pat Symcox after he urged the South African cricket team and board to support the Black Lives Matter (BLM) movement.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Both Dippenaar and Symcox replied to a Facebook post by Rudi Steyn, who posted an article about Ngidi urging South African cricketers to take a stand on the BLM movement.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Steyn, while posting, said: “I believe the Proteas should make a stand against racism, but if they stand up for “black lives matter” while ignoring the way white farmers are daily being “slaughtered” like animals, they have lost my vote.”</p>

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<p>I believe the Proteas should make a stand against racism, but if they stand up for "black lives matter" while ignoring the way white farmers are daily being "slaughtered" like animals, they have lost my vote.</p>
Posted by <a href="https://www.facebook.com/rudi.steyn.52">Rudi Steyn</a> on&nbsp;<a href="https://developers.facebook.com/rudi.steyn.52/posts/3274880342567207">Tuesday, 7 July 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>Dippenaar, who represented South Africa in 38 Tests and 107 ODIs, said “all lives matter” while adding that the Proteas quick should support farmers’ issues in the country.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“I am afraid to say “Black Lives Matter” have become nothing more than leftist political movement,” Dippenaar said. “I would suggest that Lungi Ngidi listens a bit more to likes of Thomas Sowell, Larry Elder, Walter Williams and Milton Friedman.</p>

<p>“All lives matter. If you want me to stand shoulder to shoulder with you Lungi then stand shoulder to shoulder with me with regards to farm attacks.”</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/eng-vs-wi-1st-test-day-2-live-score-and-updates-gabriel-bags-brace-as-denly-departs-england-go-2-down-311909" hreflang="en">ENG vs WI, 1st Test Day 2, Live Score and updates</a></strong></p>

<p>Whereas, Symcox, who played 20 Tests and 80 ODIs for the Proteas, said that Ngidi should stop &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; “trying to get the Proteas involved in his belief”.</p>

<p>“What nonsense is this,” Symcox said. “He must take his own stand if he wishes. Stop trying to get the Proteas involved in his belief. Besides the fact that right now Cricket South Africa should be closed down. A proper dog and pony show with cricket being dragged through the mud daily. Buy popcorn and watch.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Stay strong Lungi Ngidi and stand firm by your beliefs. Many of the current and former South African cricket players will show their true colours one by one. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BlackLivesMatter?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BlackLivesMatter</a> <a href="https://t.co/6hiY8XXiPY">pic.twitter.com/6hiY8XXiPY</a></p>
— Blacks in Whites (@BlaqsInCricket) <a href="https://twitter.com/BlaqsInCricket/status/1281103600274604032?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 9, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Now when Ngidi has his next meal perhaps he would rather consider supporting the farmers of South Africa who are under pressure right now. A cause worth supporting.”</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/michael-holding-on-racism-until-we-educate-the-entire-human-race-racism-will-not-stop-311900" hreflang="en">Michael Holding on racism: 'Until we educate the entire human race, racism will not stop'</a></strong></p>

<p>Earlier, Ngidi had expressed the need for the South African cricketers to take a solid stand on Black Lives Matter movement while suggesting South Africa’s painful history with apartheid and racial discrimination made it necessary for the players to take a stand.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“As a nation, we have a past that is very difficult, with racial discrimination, so it’s definitely something we will be addressing as a team and if we are not, it’s something I will bring up,” Ngidi had said during a virtual press conference.</p>

<p>“It’s something that we need to take very seriously and like the rest of the world is doing, make the stand.”</p>

<p>Meanwhile, England and West Indies players, staff and umpires took a knee in support of the BLM movement just before the start of the first Test at the Ageas Bowl in Southampton on Wednesday.&nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;</p>


South African speedster Lungi Ngidi received some flak from former South Africa cricketers, Boeta Dippenaar and Pat Symcox after he urged the South African cricket team and board to support the Black Lives Matter (BLM) movement.

South African speedster Lungi Ngidi received some flak from former South Africa cricketers, Boeta Dippenaar and Pat Symcox after he urged the South African cricket team and board to support the Black Lives Matter (BLM) movement. Both Dippenaar and Symcox replied to a Facebook post by Rudi Steyn, who posted an article about Ngidi urging South African cricketers to take a stand on the BLM movement. Steyn, while posting, said: “I believe the Proteas should make a stand against racism, but if they stand up for “black lives matter” while ignoring the way white farmers are daily being “slaughtered” like animals, they have lost my vote.” I believe the Proteas should make a stand against racism, but if they stand up for "black lives matter" while ignoring the way white farmers are daily being "slaughtered" like animals, they have lost my vote. Posted by Rudi Steyn on Tuesday, 7 July 2020 × Dippenaar, who represented South Africa in 38 Tests and 107 ODIs, said “all lives matter” while adding that the Proteas quick should support farmers’ issues in the country. “I am afraid to say “Black Lives Matter” have become nothing more than leftist political movement,” Dippenaar said. “I would suggest that Lungi Ngidi listens a bit more to likes of Thomas Sowell, Larry Elder, Walter Williams and Milton Friedman. “All lives matter. If you want me to stand shoulder to shoulder with you Lungi then stand shoulder to shoulder with me with regards to farm attacks.” ALSO READ: ENG vs WI, 1st Test Day 2, Live Score and updates Whereas, Symcox, who played 20 Tests and 80 ODIs for the Proteas, said that Ngidi should stop “trying to get the Proteas involved in his belief”. “What nonsense is this,” Symcox said. “He must take his own stand if he wishes. Stop trying to get the Proteas involved in his belief. Besides the fact that right now Cricket South Africa should be closed down. A proper dog and pony show with cricket being dragged through the mud daily. Buy popcorn and watch. Stay strong Lungi Ngidi and stand firm by your beliefs. Many of the current and former South African cricket players will show their true colours one by one. #BlackLivesMatter pic.twitter.com/6hiY8XXiPY — Blacks in Whites (@BlaqsInCricket) July 9, 2020 × “Now when Ngidi has his next meal perhaps he would rather consider supporting the farmers of South Africa who are under pressure right now. A cause worth supporting.” ALSO READ: Michael Holding on racism: 'Until we educate the entire human race, racism will not stop' Earlier, Ngidi had expressed the need for the South African cricketers to take a solid stand on Black Lives Matter movement while suggesting South Africa’s painful history with apartheid and racial discrimination made it necessary for the players to take a stand. “As a nation, we have a past that is very difficult, with racial discrimination, so it’s definitely something we will be addressing as a team and if we are not, it’s something I will bring up,” Ngidi had said during a virtual press conference. “It’s something that we need to take very seriously and like the rest of the world is doing, make the stand.” Meanwhile, England and West Indies players, staff and umpires took a knee in support of the BLM movement just before the start of the first Test at the Ageas Bowl in Southampton on Wednesday.

White former South African players hit back at Lungi Ngidi's BLM opinion

<p>Chelsea kept up their push for a top-four finish in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/premier-league">Premier League</a> and Champions League football next season with a 3-2 victory at London rivals Crystal Palace on Tuesday thanks to goals from Olivier Giroud, Christian Pulisic and Tammy Abraham.</p>

<p>The visitors took a two-goal lead inside half an hour through Giroud and Pulisic but Palace responded with a Wilfried Zaha goal before the break. Abraham made it 3-1 after 71 minutes only for Christian Benteke to strike back a minute later.</p>

<p>Palace then piled on the pressure in search of an equaliser and in added time defender Scott Dann hit the post while only a last-ditch tackle by Kurt Zouma denied Benteke.</p>

<p>The win took Chelsea up to third, leapfrogging Leicester City who were at Arsenal later on Tuesday, to stand five points clear of fifth-placed Manchester United, who visit Aston Villa on Thursday. Palace stay 15 points clear of the relegation zone.</p>

<p>Frank Lampard’s Chelsea side went ahead in the seventh minute when former Blues defender Gary Cahill pulled up with an injury, giving Willian all the time he needed to cut the ball back for an easy finish by French striker Giroud.</p>

<p>The visitors doubled their lead 20 minutes later as Willian fed Pulisic on the edge of the box and the American shrugged off his marker Joel Ward to fire a fierce angled shot past goalkeeper Vicente Guaita.</p>

<p>Chelsea looked in complete control and only a fine save by Guaita prevented Willian from adding a third goal after Pulisic burst through the Palace lines.</p>


Chelsea kept up their push for a top-four finish in the Premier League and Champions League football next season with a 3-2 victory at London rivals Crystal Palace on Tuesday thanks to goals from Olivier Giroud, Christian Pulisic and Tammy Abraham.

Chelsea kept up their push for a top-four finish in the Premier League and Champions League football next season with a 3-2 victory at London rivals Crystal Palace on Tuesday thanks to goals from Olivier Giroud, Christian Pulisic and Tammy Abraham. The visitors took a two-goal lead inside half an hour through Giroud and Pulisic but Palace responded with a Wilfried Zaha goal before the break. Abraham made it 3-1 after 71 minutes only for Christian Benteke to strike back a minute later. Palace then piled on the pressure in search of an equaliser and in added time defender Scott Dann hit the post while only a last-ditch tackle by Kurt Zouma denied Benteke. The win took Chelsea up to third, leapfrogging Leicester City who were at Arsenal later on Tuesday, to stand five points clear of fifth-placed Manchester United, who visit Aston Villa on Thursday. Palace stay 15 points clear of the relegation zone. Frank Lampard’s Chelsea side went ahead in the seventh minute when former Blues defender Gary Cahill pulled up with an injury, giving Willian all the time he needed to cut the ball back for an easy finish by French striker Giroud. The visitors doubled their lead 20 minutes later as Willian fed Pulisic on the edge of the box and the American shrugged off his marker Joel Ward to fire a fierce angled shot past goalkeeper Vicente Guaita. Chelsea looked in complete control and only a fine save by Guaita prevented Willian from adding a third goal after Pulisic burst through the Palace lines.

Chelsea close in on Champions League spot with 3-2 win at Palace

<p>Batting great Brian Lara has said West Indies’ best chance of victory against England is to race out to an early lead and secure the win inside five days.</p>

<p>All-rounder Jason Holder is part of the tourists’ impressive bowling attack but questions remain about their batting ahead of the series opener beginning in Southampton later on Wednesday.</p>

<p>“They have to be able to pounce immediately,” the former West Indies captain told BBC Sport.</p>

<p>“England are not beaten very easily at home and are overwhelming favourites.</p>

<p>“They have to hit the road running and stamp their authority on England.</p>

<p>“I don’t think they can last five days, so they have to take these games in four days. They have to establish a lead and keep it.”</p>

<p>The three-test series, to be played in a bio-secure environment and without spectators, marks the resumption of international cricket after the coronavirus shutdown.</p>

<p>“It’s going to be a series that’s watched all around the world and everybody is hoping to see a competitive series,” said Lara, whose 400 not out against England remains test cricket’s highest individual score.</p>


Batting great Brian Lara has said West Indies’ best chance of victory against England is to race out to an early lead and secure the win inside five days. All-rounder Jason Holder is part of the tourists’ impressive bowling attack but questions remain about their batting ahead of the series opener beginning in Southampton later on Wednesday.

Batting great Brian Lara has said West Indies’ best chance of victory against England is to race out to an early lead and secure the win inside five days. All-rounder Jason Holder is part of the tourists’ impressive bowling attack but questions remain about their batting ahead of the series opener beginning in Southampton later on Wednesday. “They have to be able to pounce immediately,” the former West Indies captain told BBC Sport. “England are not beaten very easily at home and are overwhelming favourites. “They have to hit the road running and stamp their authority on England. “I don’t think they can last five days, so they have to take these games in four days. They have to establish a lead and keep it.” The three-test series, to be played in a bio-secure environment and without spectators, marks the resumption of international cricket after the coronavirus shutdown. “It’s going to be a series that’s watched all around the world and everybody is hoping to see a competitive series,” said Lara, whose 400 not out against England remains test cricket’s highest individual score.

West Indies must try to win inside four days, Brian Lara says

<p>Leicester manager Brendan Rodgers is hoping Jamie Vardy's late equaliser to salvage a 1-1 draw at Arsenal on Tuesday will prove a turning point as the Foxes try to cling on to a place in the Premier League top four.</p>

<p>Rodgers's men have now won only once in six games since the English season restarted last month, but made the most of Eddie Nketiah's red card 15 minutes from time at the Emirates.</p>

<p>Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang's strike gave the Gunners a well-deserved first-half lead, but Kasper Schmeichel in the Leicester goal ensured Arsenal failed to add to their advantage.</p>

<p>And after Nketiah saw red, Vardy slotted home from Demarai Gray's cross to open up a four-point lead on fifth-placed Manchester United, who travel to Aston Villa on Thursday.</p>

<p>"I think it's huge for us," said Rodgers. "The second half we were outstanding. We were much quicker in our play and even 11 v 11 we were the better team.</p>

<p>"I was really pleased with how we managed 11 v 10. We got a deserved goal and if we had made the final pass we could have gone on and won the game. We take a point and it could be a very important point for us."</p>

<p>Arsenal's own chances of a top-four finish appear gone as they remain nine points adrift in seventh.</p>

<p>But after a poor start to the restart with back-to-back defeats at Manchester City and Brighton, there were more promising signs from Mikel Arteta's men as his reign at the Emirates begins to take shape.</p>

<p>"We lost two points today that in my opinion we completely deserved," said Arteta. "You can see the effort, intensity, and desire the players are putting in. I am extremely proud.</p>

<p>"You have to learn, when you play against this opposition you have to kill them."</p>

<p>Bukayo Saka has flourished since Arteta replaced Unai Emery in December and the 18-year-old was again at the heart of an excellent first 45 minutes from Arsenal.</p>

<p>Saka created the opening goal as he latched onto a defence-splitting pass from the outstanding Dani Ceballos and teased Jonny Evans into falling over his own feet before laying Aubameyang's 20th Premier League goal of the season on a plate.</p>

<p>But for Schmeichel in the Leicester goal, the hosts would have been out of sight before half-time as the Danish number one produced an incredible low save to deny Alexandre Lacazette in between further smart stops from the French striker and Saka.</p>

<p>Arsenal were far less potent as an attacking force after the break, but Lacazette's frustrating night in front of goal was rounded off when he did turn in from David Luiz's flick-on only to be flagged offside.</p>

<p>Seconds after Lacazette was replaced by Nketiah, the Gunners were down to 10 when the young striker's late lunge on James Justin was deemed worthy of a red card by referee Chris Kavanagh after he came to the side of the pitch to review the incident.</p>

<p>Rodgers immediately threw on an extra attacking option in Gray and his cross was the service Vardy had been seeking all night as turned home to regain his two-goal advantage over Aubameyang in the race for the Golden Boot.</p>


Leicester manager Brendan Rodgers is hoping Jamie Vardy's late equaliser to salvage a 1-1 draw at Arsenal on Tuesday will prove a turning point as the Foxes try to cling on to a place in the Premier League top four.

Leicester manager Brendan Rodgers is hoping Jamie Vardy's late equaliser to salvage a 1-1 draw at Arsenal on Tuesday will prove a turning point as the Foxes try to cling on to a place in the Premier League top four. Rodgers's men have now won only once in six games since the English season restarted last month, but made the most of Eddie Nketiah's red card 15 minutes from time at the Emirates. Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang's strike gave the Gunners a well-deserved first-half lead, but Kasper Schmeichel in the Leicester goal ensured Arsenal failed to add to their advantage. And after Nketiah saw red, Vardy slotted home from Demarai Gray's cross to open up a four-point lead on fifth-placed Manchester United, who travel to Aston Villa on Thursday. "I think it's huge for us," said Rodgers. "The second half we were outstanding. We were much quicker in our play and even 11 v 11 we were the better team. "I was really pleased with how we managed 11 v 10. We got a deserved goal and if we had made the final pass we could have gone on and won the game. We take a point and it could be a very important point for us." Arsenal's own chances of a top-four finish appear gone as they remain nine points adrift in seventh. But after a poor start to the restart with back-to-back defeats at Manchester City and Brighton, there were more promising signs from Mikel Arteta's men as his reign at the Emirates begins to take shape. "We lost two points today that in my opinion we completely deserved," said Arteta. "You can see the effort, intensity, and desire the players are putting in. I am extremely proud. "You have to learn, when you play against this opposition you have to kill them." Bukayo Saka has flourished since Arteta replaced Unai Emery in December and the 18-year-old was again at the heart of an excellent first 45 minutes from Arsenal. Saka created the opening goal as he latched onto a defence-splitting pass from the outstanding Dani Ceballos and teased Jonny Evans into falling over his own feet before laying Aubameyang's 20th Premier League goal of the season on a plate. But for Schmeichel in the Leicester goal, the hosts would have been out of sight before half-time as the Danish number one produced an incredible low save to deny Alexandre Lacazette in between further smart stops from the French striker and Saka. Arsenal were far less potent as an attacking force after the break, but Lacazette's frustrating night in front of goal was rounded off when he did turn in from David Luiz's flick-on only to be flagged offside. Seconds after Lacazette was replaced by Nketiah, the Gunners were down to 10 when the young striker's late lunge on James Justin was deemed worthy of a red card by referee Chris Kavanagh after he came to the side of the pitch to review the incident. Rodgers immediately threw on an extra attacking option in Gray and his cross was the service Vardy had been seeking all night as turned home to regain his two-goal advantage over Aubameyang in the race for the Golden Boot.

Rodgers hopes late leveller at Arsenal sparks Leicester revival

<p>Juventus wasted the chance to move 10 points clear at the top of Serie A as the defending champions blew a two-goal lead to lose 4-2 at a Zlatan Ibrahimovic-inspired AC Milan on Tuesday, after second-placed Lazio's shock defeat at Lecce.</p>

<p>Maurizio Sarri's men led through goals from Adrien Rabiot and Cristiano Ronaldo early in the second half, but were then blown away by a brilliant Milan display as Ibrahimovic scored and had an assist.</p>

<p>Milan coach Stefano Pioli, who could reportedly be sacked at the end of the season, saw his side boost their hopes of European qualification by moving above Roma and Napoli into fifth.</p>

<p>"I am not remotely thinking about August 3 or the future. I am thinking of the next game," Pioli told DAZN. "There have been some tough moments, but I love what I do."</p>

<p>Juve remain on track for a ninth straight title, sitting seven points clear of Lazio with seven matches remaining, but could have rendered the race all but over with a victory.</p>

<p>The loss snapped the Turin giants' seven-game winning run in the league.</p>

<p>Juventus dominated the first half without finding a breakthrough as the closest they came was when Leonardo Bonucci glanced Miralem Pjanic's free-kick wide when unmarked only three yards from goal.</p>

<p>Ibrahimovic had a couple of speculative efforts easily held by Wojciech Szczesny at the other end and also saw a goal ruled out for offside.</p>

<p>The reigning champions burst into life after the interval though, as French international Adrien Rabiot drove forward and fired a fine left-footed shot from the edge of the area into the top corner to score his first Serie A goal.</p>

<p>Ronaldo doubled the advantage less than eight minutes into the second half, netting for the fifth consecutive game and for the 26th time in Serie A this term with a cool finish.</p>

<p>But Milan were handed a lifeline out of nowhere on the hour mark as Bonucci was penalised for handball, and Ibrahimovic stepped up to score his sixth goal since returning to the San Siro from LA Galaxy in January.</p>

<p>The 38-year-old made it back-to-back games with a goal and an assist in the 66th minute, teeing up Franck Kessie to score with a deflected strike.</p>

<p>Incredibly, Milan completed the turnaround with their third goal in five minutes as Rafael Leao beat Szczesny at his near post.</p>

<p>Ante Rebic had an excellent chance to make it 4-2 with 12 minutes remaining, but Szczesny did well to save with his boot,&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Croatian international wrapped up the points two minutes later though with his 10th league goal of the season.</p>

<h2>- Lazio stumble again -</h2>

<p>Earlier, Lazio, who lost 3-0 to Milan at the weekend, slumped to a second straight loss, beaten 2-1 at relegation-threatened Lecce.</p>

<p>Defender Patric added to Lazio's problems in injury time as he was dismissed for biting Lecce's Giulio Donati and could face a lengthy ban, especially with the strict COVID-19 regulations in place.</p>

<p>"Our dream must continue, which is to qualify mathematically for the Champions League," Lazio coach Simone Inzaghi told Sky Sport Italia.</p>

<p>"We hope to achieve it as soon as possible, but that is our only objective."</p>

<p>Lecce ended a six-match losing streak in dramatic fashion to climb out of the relegation zone.</p>

<p>Lazio were without strikers Ciro Immobile and Felipe Caicedo through suspension against Milan, but both played a part as the latter gave the visitors a fifth minute lead, shortly after Lecce midfielder Marco Mancosu's strike was ruled out by VAR for a handball in the build-up.</p>

<p>But the hosts grabbed a deserved equaliser on the half-hour mark when Senegalese forward Khouma Babacar nodded home Filippo Falco's cross.</p>

<p>Lazio survived a massive scare on the stroke of half-time as Lecce were awarded a penalty for a controversial handball against Patric, but Mancosu spooned his spot-kick over the crossbar.</p>

<p>Lecce centre-back Fabio Lucioni headed in a corner to give the home team a shock lead early in the second half.</p>

<p>Patric's moment of madness came in the third minute of added time when he bit Donati on the arm.</p>


Juventus wasted the chance to move 10 points clear at the top of Serie A as the defending champions blew a two-goal lead to lose 4-2 at a Zlatan Ibrahimovic-inspired AC Milan on Tuesday, after second-placed Lazio's shock defeat at Lecce.

Juventus wasted the chance to move 10 points clear at the top of Serie A as the defending champions blew a two-goal lead to lose 4-2 at a Zlatan Ibrahimovic-inspired AC Milan on Tuesday, after second-placed Lazio's shock defeat at Lecce. Maurizio Sarri's men led through goals from Adrien Rabiot and Cristiano Ronaldo early in the second half, but were then blown away by a brilliant Milan display as Ibrahimovic scored and had an assist. Milan coach Stefano Pioli, who could reportedly be sacked at the end of the season, saw his side boost their hopes of European qualification by moving above Roma and Napoli into fifth. "I am not remotely thinking about August 3 or the future. I am thinking of the next game," Pioli told DAZN. "There have been some tough moments, but I love what I do." Juve remain on track for a ninth straight title, sitting seven points clear of Lazio with seven matches remaining, but could have rendered the race all but over with a victory. The loss snapped the Turin giants' seven-game winning run in the league. Juventus dominated the first half without finding a breakthrough as the closest they came was when Leonardo Bonucci glanced Miralem Pjanic's free-kick wide when unmarked only three yards from goal. Ibrahimovic had a couple of speculative efforts easily held by Wojciech Szczesny at the other end and also saw a goal ruled out for offside. The reigning champions burst into life after the interval though, as French international Adrien Rabiot drove forward and fired a fine left-footed shot from the edge of the area into the top corner to score his first Serie A goal. Ronaldo doubled the advantage less than eight minutes into the second half, netting for the fifth consecutive game and for the 26th time in Serie A this term with a cool finish. But Milan were handed a lifeline out of nowhere on the hour mark as Bonucci was penalised for handball, and Ibrahimovic stepped up to score his sixth goal since returning to the San Siro from LA Galaxy in January. The 38-year-old made it back-to-back games with a goal and an assist in the 66th minute, teeing up Franck Kessie to score with a deflected strike. Incredibly, Milan completed the turnaround with their third goal in five minutes as Rafael Leao beat Szczesny at his near post. Ante Rebic had an excellent chance to make it 4-2 with 12 minutes remaining, but Szczesny did well to save with his boot, The Croatian international wrapped up the points two minutes later though with his 10th league goal of the season. - Lazio stumble again - Earlier, Lazio, who lost 3-0 to Milan at the weekend, slumped to a second straight loss, beaten 2-1 at relegation-threatened Lecce. Defender Patric added to Lazio's problems in injury time as he was dismissed for biting Lecce's Giulio Donati and could face a lengthy ban, especially with the strict COVID-19 regulations in place. "Our dream must continue, which is to qualify mathematically for the Champions League," Lazio coach Simone Inzaghi told Sky Sport Italia. "We hope to achieve it as soon as possible, but that is our only objective." Lecce ended a six-match losing streak in dramatic fashion to climb out of the relegation zone. Lazio were without strikers Ciro Immobile and Felipe Caicedo through suspension against Milan, but both played a part as the latter gave the visitors a fifth minute lead, shortly after Lecce midfielder Marco Mancosu's strike was ruled out by VAR for a handball in the build-up. But the hosts grabbed a deserved equaliser on the half-hour mark when Senegalese forward Khouma Babacar nodded home Filippo Falco's cross. Lazio survived a massive scare on the stroke of half-time as Lecce were awarded a penalty for a controversial handball against Patric, but Mancosu spooned his spot-kick over the crossbar. Lecce centre-back Fabio Lucioni headed in a corner to give the home team a shock lead early in the second half. Patric's moment of madness came in the third minute of added time when he bit Donati on the arm.

Zlatan fires Milan comeback as Juve miss chance to stretch lead

<p>This year's Ryder Cup golf showdown between Europe and the United States was postponed to 2021 on Wednesday, becoming the latest major sports event disrupted by the coronavirus pandemic.</p>

<p>The PGA of America, Ryder Cup Europe and the US PGA Tour announced the 43rd edition of the biennial matches, which had been set for Whistling Straits in Wisconsin on September 25-27, will instead be staged on September 24-26, 2021.</p>

<p>A planned 2021 Presidents Cup between a US squad and a non-European internationals team will be delayed until September 22-25, 2022 with a Ryder Cup in Rome pushed back a year to 2023.</p>

<p>The postponement is the first for the Ryder Cup since 2001, when September 11 terrorist attacks upon New York and Washington prompted the matches to be delayed a year. The Cup also went unplayed from 1939-1945 due to World War II.</p>

<p>Holders Europe will keep for another year the trophy won in France in 2018 by 17 1/2 - 10 1/2.</p>

<p>The worldwide COVID-19 outbreak has prevented spectators from attending golf events, including US PGA Tour tournaments, after its return in June from a three-month shutdown.</p>

<p>Guidance from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention as well as state and local officials prompted the decision, with health considerations the top priority.</p>

<p>"Unlike other major sporting events that are played in existing stadiums, we had to make a decision now about building facilities to host the 2020 Ryder Cup at Whistling Straits," PGA of America chief executive officer Seth Waugh said.</p>

<p>"It became clear that as of today, our medical experts and the public authorities in Wisconsin could not give us certainty that conducting an event responsibly with thousands of spectators in September would be possible. Given that uncertainty, we knew rescheduling was the right call."</p>

<p>World number one Rory McIlroy of Northern Ireland and fellow four-time major champion Brooks Koepka of the United States were among the top players who did not want to see a Ryder Cup staged without fans, whose passionate cheers, songs and shouts create a unique atmosphere at Cup matches.</p>

<p>US captain Steve Stricker and Europe counterpart Padraig Harrington agreed they did not want to see a Ryder Cup without spectators.</p>

<p>"When you think of the Ryder Cup you think of the distinctive atmosphere generated by the spectators, such as around the first tee at Le Golf National two years' ago," Harrington said.</p>

<p>"If that cannot be responsibly recreated at Whistling Straits in September, then it is correct that we all wait until it can be."</p>

<p>COVID-19 cases continue to soar across the United States and even if a limited number of fans were allowed on the course, travel restrictions could still be a factor for those wanting to come from Europe.</p>


This year's Ryder Cup golf showdown between Europe and the United States was postponed to 2021 on Wednesday, becoming the latest major sports event disrupted by the coronavirus pandemic.

This year's Ryder Cup golf showdown between Europe and the United States was postponed to 2021 on Wednesday, becoming the latest major sports event disrupted by the coronavirus pandemic. The PGA of America, Ryder Cup Europe and the US PGA Tour announced the 43rd edition of the biennial matches, which had been set for Whistling Straits in Wisconsin on September 25-27, will instead be staged on September 24-26, 2021. A planned 2021 Presidents Cup between a US squad and a non-European internationals team will be delayed until September 22-25, 2022 with a Ryder Cup in Rome pushed back a year to 2023. The postponement is the first for the Ryder Cup since 2001, when September 11 terrorist attacks upon New York and Washington prompted the matches to be delayed a year. The Cup also went unplayed from 1939-1945 due to World War II. Holders Europe will keep for another year the trophy won in France in 2018 by 17 1/2 - 10 1/2. The worldwide COVID-19 outbreak has prevented spectators from attending golf events, including US PGA Tour tournaments, after its return in June from a three-month shutdown. Guidance from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention as well as state and local officials prompted the decision, with health considerations the top priority. "Unlike other major sporting events that are played in existing stadiums, we had to make a decision now about building facilities to host the 2020 Ryder Cup at Whistling Straits," PGA of America chief executive officer Seth Waugh said. "It became clear that as of today, our medical experts and the public authorities in Wisconsin could not give us certainty that conducting an event responsibly with thousands of spectators in September would be possible. Given that uncertainty, we knew rescheduling was the right call." World number one Rory McIlroy of Northern Ireland and fellow four-time major champion Brooks Koepka of the United States were among the top players who did not want to see a Ryder Cup staged without fans, whose passionate cheers, songs and shouts create a unique atmosphere at Cup matches. US captain Steve Stricker and Europe counterpart Padraig Harrington agreed they did not want to see a Ryder Cup without spectators. "When you think of the Ryder Cup you think of the distinctive atmosphere generated by the spectators, such as around the first tee at Le Golf National two years' ago," Harrington said. "If that cannot be responsibly recreated at Whistling Straits in September, then it is correct that we all wait until it can be." COVID-19 cases continue to soar across the United States and even if a limited number of fans were allowed on the course, travel restrictions could still be a factor for those wanting to come from Europe.

Ryder Cup at Whistling Straits postponed to 2021

<p>The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) president Sourav Ganguly on Wednesday confirmed that the Asia Cup 2020, which was slated to be played in the UAE in September, has been cancelled due to COVID-19 pandemic.</p>

<p>While the fate of the tournament was hanging by a thin thread, Ganguly pulled the curtains off to confirm the cancellation of the tournament. Ganguly’s comments come days ahead of the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) meeting scheduled to take place on July 09.</p>

<p>Ganguly, who turned 48 on Wednesday, confirmed the news during an Instagram live session with Vikrant Gupta. &nbsp;"Asia Cup has been cancelled," said the BCCI president. The former Indian captain further said that it is still unclear when the Indian players will return back to action.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/sourav-and-virat-it-is-time-to-deliver-for-india-in-covid-19-times-311647" hreflang="en">Sourav and Virat, it is time to deliver for India in COVID-19 times</a></strong></p>

<p>The BCCI president even congratulated the ECB and Cricket West Indies for going ahead with the three-match Test series, which also has become the first international rubber to be played post the COVID-19 break. International cricket, like every other sport, witnessed an unprecedented halt due to the coronavirus outbreak.</p>

<p>Team India was last seen in action during the Test series against New Zealand with their three-match ODI series against South Africa in March getting postponed mid-way after the washed-out first game in Dharamsala. &nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/england-west-indies-take-a-knee-in-first-test-as-cricket-returns-in-slightly-different-look-311689" hreflang="en">England, West Indies take a knee in first Test as cricket returns in slightly different look</a></strong></p>

<p>"It's difficult to say which will be India's first international series. We've done our preparations but we can't do much till we know the government rules. We are not in a hurry because the health of players is of the utmost importance. We are monitoring things monthly," said Ganguly.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ganguly further spoke about the importance of IPL for the financial structure of the BCCI. While he didn’t go in-depth about the money-spinning T20 tournament, it seems like the window is clear for the IPL 2020 in September-November.<br />
&nbsp;</p>


The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) president Sourav Ganguly on Wednesday confirmed that the Asia Cup 2020, which was slated to be played in the UAE in September, has been cancelled due to COVID-19 pandemic.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) president Sourav Ganguly on Wednesday confirmed that the Asia Cup 2020, which was slated to be played in the UAE in September, has been cancelled due to COVID-19 pandemic. While the fate of the tournament was hanging by a thin thread, Ganguly pulled the curtains off to confirm the cancellation of the tournament. Ganguly’s comments come days ahead of the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) meeting scheduled to take place on July 09. Ganguly, who turned 48 on Wednesday, confirmed the news during an Instagram live session with Vikrant Gupta. "Asia Cup has been cancelled," said the BCCI president. The former Indian captain further said that it is still unclear when the Indian players will return back to action. ALSO READ: Sourav and Virat, it is time to deliver for India in COVID-19 times The BCCI president even congratulated the ECB and Cricket West Indies for going ahead with the three-match Test series, which also has become the first international rubber to be played post the COVID-19 break. International cricket, like every other sport, witnessed an unprecedented halt due to the coronavirus outbreak. Team India was last seen in action during the Test series against New Zealand with their three-match ODI series against South Africa in March getting postponed mid-way after the washed-out first game in Dharamsala. IN PICS | England, West Indies take a knee in first Test as cricket returns in slightly different look "It's difficult to say which will be India's first international series. We've done our preparations but we can't do much till we know the government rules. We are not in a hurry because the health of players is of the utmost importance. We are monitoring things monthly," said Ganguly. Ganguly further spoke about the importance of IPL for the financial structure of the BCCI. While he didn’t go in-depth about the money-spinning T20 tournament, it seems like the window is clear for the IPL 2020 in September-November.

Asia Cup 2020 stands cancelled, confirms BCCI president Sourav Ganguly

England, West Indies take a knee in first Test as cricket returns in slightly different look

<p>Two-time world champion Fernando Alonso will return to Formula One with Renault for the 2021 season, the team announced on Wednesday.</p>

<p>"Renault DP World F1 Team is pleased to confirm Fernando Alonso alongside Esteban Ocon in its driver line-up for the 2021 season," Renault said in a statement.</p>

<p>Alonso, who has notched up 32 wins and 97 podiums in 314 Grand Prix starts, will replace Australian driver Daniel Ricciardo, who is McLaren-bound at the end of this season.</p>

<p>Alonso, who won his two world championship titles with Renault in 2005 and 2006, said the French team had afforded him his "fondest memories" in Formula One.</p>

<p>"Renault is my family," the 38-year-old Spaniard said.</p>

<p>"It's a great source of pride and with an immense emotion I'm returning to the team that gave me my chance at the start of my career and which now gives me the opportunity to return to the highest level."</p>

<p>Alonso left Formula One in 2018 after four fruitless years at McLaren and is due to make a third attempt to win the Indianapolis 500 with McLaren in August.</p>

<p>Alonso said he had bought into Renault's project for the coming season.</p>

<p>"Their progress this winter gives credibility to the objectives for the 2022 season and I will share all my racing experience with everyone from the engineers to the mechanics and my team-mates," he said.</p>

<p>"The team wants and has the means to get back on the podium, as do I."</p>


Two-time world champion Fernando Alonso will return to Formula One with Renault for the 2021 season, the team announced on Wednesday. "Renault DP World F1 Team is pleased to confirm Fernando Alonso alongside Esteban Ocon in its driver line-up for the 2021 season," Renault said in a statement.

Two-time world champion Fernando Alonso will return to Formula One with Renault for the 2021 season, the team announced on Wednesday. "Renault DP World F1 Team is pleased to confirm Fernando Alonso alongside Esteban Ocon in its driver line-up for the 2021 season," Renault said in a statement. Alonso, who has notched up 32 wins and 97 podiums in 314 Grand Prix starts, will replace Australian driver Daniel Ricciardo, who is McLaren-bound at the end of this season. Alonso, who won his two world championship titles with Renault in 2005 and 2006, said the French team had afforded him his "fondest memories" in Formula One. "Renault is my family," the 38-year-old Spaniard said. "It's a great source of pride and with an immense emotion I'm returning to the team that gave me my chance at the start of my career and which now gives me the opportunity to return to the highest level." Alonso left Formula One in 2018 after four fruitless years at McLaren and is due to make a third attempt to win the Indianapolis 500 with McLaren in August. Alonso said he had bought into Renault's project for the coming season. "Their progress this winter gives credibility to the objectives for the 2022 season and I will share all my racing experience with everyone from the engineers to the mechanics and my team-mates," he said. "The team wants and has the means to get back on the podium, as do I."

Alonso returns to his Renault 'family' for 2021 FI season

<p>Australian tennis star Nick Kyrgios on Wednesday questioned Dominic Thiem’s intellect after the latter asked him to stop criticizing fellow colleagues Alexander Zverev and Novak Djokovic over their participation in the ill-fated Adria Tour.</p>

<p>Kyrgios said that Thiem wasn’t on the same “intellectual level” after the Aussie called his criticism “cheap” while claiming it was sheer “bad luck” that Zverev was caught partying after publicly promising to self isolate.</p>

<p>The likes of Djokovic, Grigor Dimitrov, Borna Coric and Viktor Troicki tested positive for COVID-19 after the completion of the second leg of Adria Tour, an exhibition series organized by Djokovic. Players were seen hugging and embracing across the net in front of a capacity crowd.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/womens-british-open-to-take-place-with-no-fans-organisers-311446" hreflang="en"><strong>Women's British Open to take place with no fans: Organisers</strong></a></p>

<p>"Kyrgios has really done a lot of nonsense himself. That's why I understand even less when he interferes everywhere," Thiem told German media this week.</p>

<p>"It would be better for him to come clean instead of always criticising others."</p>

<p>However, Kyrgios didn’t hold back his words as he took to Twitter to write: "What are you talking about @ThiemDomi? Mistakes like smashing rackets? Swearing? Tanking a few matches here or there? Which everyone does?&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">What are you talking about <a href="https://twitter.com/ThiemDomi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ThiemDomi</a> ? Mistakes like smashing rackets? Swearing? Tanking a few matches here or there? Which everyone does? None of you have the intellectual level to even understand where I’m coming from. I’m trying to hold them accountable.</p>
— Nicholas Kyrgios (@NickKyrgios) <a href="https://twitter.com/NickKyrgios/status/1280650458374172672?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 7, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>"None of you have the intellectual level to even understand where I'm coming from. I'm trying to hold them accountable."</p>

<p>Kyrgios added: "This just shows what a joke @ThiemDomi @AlexZverev &amp; @DjokerNole think this is, 2 of them partying like potato's during a global pandemic.&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">What are you talking about <a href="https://twitter.com/ThiemDomi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ThiemDomi</a> ? Mistakes like smashing rackets? Swearing? Tanking a few matches here or there? Which everyone does? None of you have the intellectual level to even understand where I’m coming from. I’m trying to hold them accountable.</p>
— Nicholas Kyrgios (@NickKyrgios) <a href="https://twitter.com/NickKyrgios/status/1280650458374172672?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 7, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
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<p>"People losing lives, loved ones and friends, and then Thiem standing up for the 'mistake'. These guys are the 'top' of our sport. SMH (shaking my head)."</p>

<p>Earlier, Kyrgios lashed out at German legend Boris Becker, who had called him a “rat” for singling out Zverev.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"@TheBorisBecker is a bigger doughnut than I thought. Can hit a volley, obviously not the sharpest tool in the shed though," he fired back.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/TheBorisBecker?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TheBorisBecker</a> is a bigger doughnut than I thought. 😂😂 can hit a volley, obviously not the sharpest tool in the shed though.</p>
— Nicholas Kyrgios (@NickKyrgios) <a href="https://twitter.com/NickKyrgios/status/1277878843101966337?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 30, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Australian tennis star Nick Kyrgios on Wednesday questioned Dominic Thiem’s intellect after the latter asked him to stop criticizing fellow colleagues Alexander Zverev and Novak Djokovic over their participation in the ill-fated Adria Tour.

Australian tennis star Nick Kyrgios on Wednesday questioned Dominic Thiem’s intellect after the latter asked him to stop criticizing fellow colleagues Alexander Zverev and Novak Djokovic over their participation in the ill-fated Adria Tour. Kyrgios said that Thiem wasn’t on the same “intellectual level” after the Aussie called his criticism “cheap” while claiming it was sheer “bad luck” that Zverev was caught partying after publicly promising to self isolate. The likes of Djokovic, Grigor Dimitrov, Borna Coric and Viktor Troicki tested positive for COVID-19 after the completion of the second leg of Adria Tour, an exhibition series organized by Djokovic. Players were seen hugging and embracing across the net in front of a capacity crowd. ALSO READ: Women's British Open to take place with no fans: Organisers "Kyrgios has really done a lot of nonsense himself. That's why I understand even less when he interferes everywhere," Thiem told German media this week. "It would be better for him to come clean instead of always criticising others." However, Kyrgios didn’t hold back his words as he took to Twitter to write: "What are you talking about @ThiemDomi? Mistakes like smashing rackets? Swearing? Tanking a few matches here or there? Which everyone does? What are you talking about @ThiemDomi ? Mistakes like smashing rackets? Swearing? Tanking a few matches here or there? Which everyone does? None of you have the intellectual level to even understand where I’m coming from. I’m trying to hold them accountable. — Nicholas Kyrgios (@NickKyrgios) July 7, 2020 × "None of you have the intellectual level to even understand where I'm coming from. I'm trying to hold them accountable." Kyrgios added: "This just shows what a joke @ThiemDomi @AlexZverev & @DjokerNole think this is, 2 of them partying like potato's during a global pandemic. What are you talking about @ThiemDomi ? Mistakes like smashing rackets? Swearing? Tanking a few matches here or there? Which everyone does? None of you have the intellectual level to even understand where I’m coming from. I’m trying to hold them accountable. — Nicholas Kyrgios (@NickKyrgios) July 7, 2020 × "People losing lives, loved ones and friends, and then Thiem standing up for the 'mistake'. These guys are the 'top' of our sport. SMH (shaking my head)." Earlier, Kyrgios lashed out at German legend Boris Becker, who had called him a “rat” for singling out Zverev. "@TheBorisBecker is a bigger doughnut than I thought. Can hit a volley, obviously not the sharpest tool in the shed though," he fired back. @TheBorisBecker is a bigger doughnut than I thought. 😂😂 can hit a volley, obviously not the sharpest tool in the shed though. — Nicholas Kyrgios (@NickKyrgios) June 30, 2020 ×

'What are you talking about?' - Nick Kyrgios slams Dominic Thiem in coronavirus row

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