<p>Reigning Masters champion Tiger Woods and four-time major winner Brooks Koepka are among the exempt players for this year's US Open announced Thursday by the US Golf Association.</p>

<p>Woods, a 15-time major champion, and Koepka, seeking a third consecutive PGA Championship victory in August, will join defending champion Gary Woodland among 11 US Open winners set to compete in the 120th US Open on September 17-20 at Winged Foot in Mamaroneck, New York.</p>

<p>World number one Rory McIlroy and Graeme McDowell of Northern Ireland, Britain's Justin Rose and Germany's Martin Kaymer will join fellow US Open winners Woods, Koepka, Woodland, Lucas Glover, Dustin Johnson, Webb Simpson and Jordan Spieth.</p>

<p>The coronavirus pandemic forced a postponement of the US Open from its traditional June dates and wiped out all qualifying for the tournament, forcing the USGA to determine exempt categories for entry into the major championship.</p>

<p>"The decision to cancel local and final qualifying for this year's US Open was deeply disappointing, but we are pleased to still provide the world's best professional and amateur players the opportunity to compete for this historic and coveted championship," said USGA senior managing director of championships John Bodenhamer said.</p>

<p>"The exemption categories for this year's championship at Winged Foot Golf Club were carefully developed to mirror a representative US Open field and we are excited that players will still have an opportunity to earn a place in the field through a variety of categories."</p>

<p>The US Open will be played following the scheduled conclusion of the 2019-20 US PGA Tour season and as the second major event of the year after the PGA, with the British Open having been canceled and the Masters pushed back from April to November due to the deadly virus outbreak.</p>

<p>Entries will be accepted from July 15 through August 26.</p>

<p>The USGA has not given up on having at least a limited number of spectators at the event, to be staged in what had been the first major US epicenter of the COVID-19 outbreak.</p>

<h2>- Mickelson makes it in -</h2>

<p>This year's US Open will include the top 70 players in the world golf rankings as of March 15 instead of the usual top 60.</p>

<p>That expansion will allow 50-year-old Phil Mickelson, who was 61st in the March 15 edition of the rankings, to compete in the event. The six-time US Open runner-up needs a victory in the event to complete a career Grand Slam.</p>

<p>Players can also earn a berth in the lineup through performances in the last six scheduled US PGA events of the current season, which resumed two weeks ago after a three-month hiatus.</p>

<p>The top five players on the final US PGA FedEx Cup season points list, the top 10 in aggregate points from the first five events on the European Tour's UK Swing and the top five on the developmental Korn Ferry Tour's regular season points and finals lists will be exempt into the US Open.</p>

<p>The final 2019 Order of Merit categories for the Japan Golf Tour, Sunshine Tour, Asian Tour and Australasia Tour will help to complete a field of 144 players at the suburban New York layout.</p>

<p>Six amateurs are currently exempt and the top seven World Amateur Golf Rankings point leaders from August 19 not otherwise exempt will be added to the field.</p>

<p>An average of 15 amateurs have competed in the past five US Opens, including 2018 US Amateur winner Viktor Hovland, a Norwegian who shared 12th last year at Pebble Beach.</p>

<p>Exemptions remain unchanged for winners in several USGA events as well as for winners of the other majors, the Players Championship and BMW PGA Championship.</p>

<p>Other spots to fill the field will be taken from the August 23 edition of the world golf rankings.</p>


Reigning Masters champion Tiger Woods and four-time major winner Brooks Koepka are among the exempt players for this year's US Open announced Thursday by the US Golf Association.

Reigning Masters champion Tiger Woods and four-time major winner Brooks Koepka are among the exempt players for this year's US Open announced Thursday by the US Golf Association. Woods, a 15-time major champion, and Koepka, seeking a third consecutive PGA Championship victory in August, will join defending champion Gary Woodland among 11 US Open winners set to compete in the 120th US Open on September 17-20 at Winged Foot in Mamaroneck, New York. World number one Rory McIlroy and Graeme McDowell of Northern Ireland, Britain's Justin Rose and Germany's Martin Kaymer will join fellow US Open winners Woods, Koepka, Woodland, Lucas Glover, Dustin Johnson, Webb Simpson and Jordan Spieth. The coronavirus pandemic forced a postponement of the US Open from its traditional June dates and wiped out all qualifying for the tournament, forcing the USGA to determine exempt categories for entry into the major championship. "The decision to cancel local and final qualifying for this year's US Open was deeply disappointing, but we are pleased to still provide the world's best professional and amateur players the opportunity to compete for this historic and coveted championship," said USGA senior managing director of championships John Bodenhamer said. "The exemption categories for this year's championship at Winged Foot Golf Club were carefully developed to mirror a representative US Open field and we are excited that players will still have an opportunity to earn a place in the field through a variety of categories." The US Open will be played following the scheduled conclusion of the 2019-20 US PGA Tour season and as the second major event of the year after the PGA, with the British Open having been canceled and the Masters pushed back from April to November due to the deadly virus outbreak. Entries will be accepted from July 15 through August 26. The USGA has not given up on having at least a limited number of spectators at the event, to be staged in what had been the first major US epicenter of the COVID-19 outbreak. - Mickelson makes it in - This year's US Open will include the top 70 players in the world golf rankings as of March 15 instead of the usual top 60. That expansion will allow 50-year-old Phil Mickelson, who was 61st in the March 15 edition of the rankings, to compete in the event. The six-time US Open runner-up needs a victory in the event to complete a career Grand Slam. Players can also earn a berth in the lineup through performances in the last six scheduled US PGA events of the current season, which resumed two weeks ago after a three-month hiatus. The top five players on the final US PGA FedEx Cup season points list, the top 10 in aggregate points from the first five events on the European Tour's UK Swing and the top five on the developmental Korn Ferry Tour's regular season points and finals lists will be exempt into the US Open. The final 2019 Order of Merit categories for the Japan Golf Tour, Sunshine Tour, Asian Tour and Australasia Tour will help to complete a field of 144 players at the suburban New York layout. Six amateurs are currently exempt and the top seven World Amateur Golf Rankings point leaders from August 19 not otherwise exempt will be added to the field. An average of 15 amateurs have competed in the past five US Opens, including 2018 US Amateur winner Viktor Hovland, a Norwegian who shared 12th last year at Pebble Beach. Exemptions remain unchanged for winners in several USGA events as well as for winners of the other majors, the Players Championship and BMW PGA Championship. Other spots to fill the field will be taken from the August 23 edition of the world golf rankings.

Tiger, Koepka, McIlroy among exempt golfers for US Open

<p>The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has asked the ICC to get written assurances from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) that the team would face no issues while getting visas to play in the T20 World Cup 2021 and ICC World Cup 2023 scheduled to be hosted by India.&nbsp;</p>

<p>PCB CEO Wasim Khan said that the board has asked the ICC for visa assurance while also hinting that the T20 World Cup 2020 is likely to be postponed. Khan further said that the tournament could be postponed to 2022 if the showpiece event gets deferred.</p>

<p>“We are also looking at the fact that the ICC World Cups are to be hosted in India in 2021 and 2023 and we have already asked the ICC to give us written assurances from BCCI that we will not face any problems getting visas and clearance to play in India,” PCB CEO Wasim Khan said in an interview on the Youtube Cricket Baaz Channel.</p>

<p>“The big question now is when the World T20 is held in 2021 will it be hosted by Australia or India as India has the hosting rights for the already scheduled World T20 Cup in 2021.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/after-claiming-sri-lanka-sold-2011-wc-final-to-india-lankan-minister-says-its-his-suspicion-308491" hreflang="en">After claiming Sri Lanka 'sold' 2011 WC final to India, Lankan minister says it's his 'suspicion'</a></strong></p>

<p>“The way things are, the gap available in 2022 will be used to accommodate the 2020 World T20 if it is not held this year.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>Khan said that in last few years, many Pakistan sports teams have been denied clearance by the Indian government to play in India. “That is why we have asked for the advance assurances. But eventually it is an ICC event and it is their responsibility to ensure we as a full member and signatory of the participants’ agreement go and play in these ICC events.”&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/leeds-united-remove-osama-bin-laden-cut-out-from-stands-after-howler-308454" hreflang="en">Leeds United remove Osama bin Laden cut out from stands after howler</a></strong></p>

<p>Khan also said that relations between Pakistan and India give no chance to bilateral cricket resuming again between the two neighbours.</p>

<p>“We have a good relationship with the BCCI but we know realistically a bilateral series is not possible in the foreseeable future,” he said.<br />
&nbsp;</p>


The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has asked the ICC to get written assurances from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) that the team would face no issues while getting visas to play in the T20 World Cup 2021 and ICC World Cup 2023 scheduled to be hosted by India.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has asked the ICC to get written assurances from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) that the team would face no issues while getting visas to play in the T20 World Cup 2021 and ICC World Cup 2023 scheduled to be hosted by India. PCB CEO Wasim Khan said that the board has asked the ICC for visa assurance while also hinting that the T20 World Cup 2020 is likely to be postponed. Khan further said that the tournament could be postponed to 2022 if the showpiece event gets deferred. “We are also looking at the fact that the ICC World Cups are to be hosted in India in 2021 and 2023 and we have already asked the ICC to give us written assurances from BCCI that we will not face any problems getting visas and clearance to play in India,” PCB CEO Wasim Khan said in an interview on the Youtube Cricket Baaz Channel. “The big question now is when the World T20 is held in 2021 will it be hosted by Australia or India as India has the hosting rights for the already scheduled World T20 Cup in 2021. ALSO READ: After claiming Sri Lanka 'sold' 2011 WC final to India, Lankan minister says it's his 'suspicion' “The way things are, the gap available in 2022 will be used to accommodate the 2020 World T20 if it is not held this year.” Khan said that in last few years, many Pakistan sports teams have been denied clearance by the Indian government to play in India. “That is why we have asked for the advance assurances. But eventually it is an ICC event and it is their responsibility to ensure we as a full member and signatory of the participants’ agreement go and play in these ICC events.” ALSO READ: Leeds United remove Osama bin Laden cut out from stands after howler Khan also said that relations between Pakistan and India give no chance to bilateral cricket resuming again between the two neighbours. “We have a good relationship with the BCCI but we know realistically a bilateral series is not possible in the foreseeable future,” he said.

PCB seeks written assurance from BCCI on player visas for two World Cups in India

<p>Dominic Thiem has followed Novak Djokovic by&nbsp;apologising for his conduct in the much-talked-about Adria Tour following which four tennis players have tested positive for coronavirus including Djokovic himself.</p>

<p>Djokovic, Grigor Dimitrov, Viktor Troicki and Borna Coric have been tested positive for COVID-19 after the completion of exhibition events in Serbia and Croatia. While crowds were allowed to witness the return of tennis, social distancing and health safety measures were tossed out of the window with players embracing at the net, playing basketball together and partying.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Thiem was the winner of the Belgrade leg of Adria Tour at Djokovic’s tennis centre by Danube river. However, the 26-year-old has now realized the devastating effect of Tour on the world of tennis with severe backlash from the community.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>I am extremely sorry: Dominic Thiem</strong></h2>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/adria-tour-latest-series-of-gaffes-from-novak-djokovic-308316" hreflang="en">Adria Tour: Latest series of gaffes from Novak Djokovic</a></strong></p>

<p>“We played without an audience for weeks, so we have been more than happy about the fans at the event,” Thiem said in an Instagram post. “We trusted the Serbian government’s corona rules, but we have been too optimistic.</p>

<p>“Our behaviour was a mistake, we acted too euphorically. I am extremely sorry.”</p>

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<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CB2bvHBlA_f/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Dominic Thiem (@domithiem)</a> on <time datetime="2020-06-25T07:58:13+00:00" style=" font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px;">Jun 25, 2020 at 12:58am PDT</time></p>
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<p>Even though players didn’t break government protocols during the tournament, it allowed everyone to witness how a casual approach towards the virus could turn into a catastrophe.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/novak-djokovics-faulty-serve-to-the-tennis-world-308282" hreflang="en">Novak Djokovic's faulty serve to the tennis world</a></strong></p>

<p>Thiem didn’t play in Zadar due to his commitment with Ultimate Tennis Showdown, which is being held on weekends at the Patrick Mouratoglou’s academy in France.</p>

<p>“I’ve now got tested five times within the last ten days and the result was always negative. I wish everyone who is infected all the best and quick recovery,” Thiem added.<br />
&nbsp;</p>


Dominic Thiem has followed Novak Djokovic by apologising for his conduct in the much-talked-about Adria Tour following which four tennis players have tested positive for coronavirus including Djokovic himself.

Dominic Thiem has followed Novak Djokovic by apologising for his conduct in the much-talked-about Adria Tour following which four tennis players have tested positive for coronavirus including Djokovic himself. Djokovic, Grigor Dimitrov, Viktor Troicki and Borna Coric have been tested positive for COVID-19 after the completion of exhibition events in Serbia and Croatia. While crowds were allowed to witness the return of tennis, social distancing and health safety measures were tossed out of the window with players embracing at the net, playing basketball together and partying. Thiem was the winner of the Belgrade leg of Adria Tour at Djokovic’s tennis centre by Danube river. However, the 26-year-old has now realized the devastating effect of Tour on the world of tennis with severe backlash from the community. I am extremely sorry: Dominic Thiem ALSO READ: Adria Tour: Latest series of gaffes from Novak Djokovic “We played without an audience for weeks, so we have been more than happy about the fans at the event,” Thiem said in an Instagram post. “We trusted the Serbian government’s corona rules, but we have been too optimistic. “Our behaviour was a mistake, we acted too euphorically. I am extremely sorry.” View this post on Instagram A post shared by Dominic Thiem (@domithiem) on Jun 25, 2020 at 12:58am PDT × Even though players didn’t break government protocols during the tournament, it allowed everyone to witness how a casual approach towards the virus could turn into a catastrophe. ALSO READ: Novak Djokovic's faulty serve to the tennis world Thiem didn’t play in Zadar due to his commitment with Ultimate Tennis Showdown, which is being held on weekends at the Patrick Mouratoglou’s academy in France. “I’ve now got tested five times within the last ten days and the result was always negative. I wish everyone who is infected all the best and quick recovery,” Thiem added.

'We acted too euphorically, I am extremely sorry': Dominic Thiem apologises over Adria Tour mishap

<p>The venue for the match between Manchester City and Liverpool on July 2 has been confirmed by the Manchester City Council and the much-awaited showdown will take place at the Etihad Stadium. This was the only <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/premier-league">Premier League</a> game to have not confirmed to be held at the original home venue following the UK’s football policing statement in May that six fixtures may need to be played at neutral venues.</p>

<p>However, following a meeting of Manchester City Council’s safety advisory group on Thursday, the Etihad Stadium was given the nod for the match between the Blues and inevitable <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/premier-league">Premier League</a> champions Liverpool.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The Council's Safety Advisory Group (SAG) for the Etihad Stadium met this morning (Thursday, June 25) to review the upcoming fixture between Manchester City FC and Liverpool FC," Manchester City Council confirmed in a statement.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/that-man-probably-came-sick-novak-djokovics-parents-accuse-grigor-dimitrov-for-spreading-coronavirus-at-adria-tour-308472" hreflang="en">'That man probably came sick' - Novak Djokovic's parents accuse Grigor Dimitrov for spreading coronavirus at Adria Tour</a></strong></p>

<p>"Following the most recent round of Premier League fixtures which have all taken place behind closed doors, the SAG has signalled it has no objections to the above fixture taking place at the Etihad Stadium as planned at 8.15 pm, Thursday, July 2. As with all other Premier League matches this fixture will take place behind closed doors, with no fans present."</p>

<p>The matches which were to be held at neutral venues, in the initial list of fixtures, had Merseyside derby, Man City’s home game against Newcastle, Manchester United’s game against Sheffield United and Newcastle vs Liverpool on July 26 and the match between Liverpool and Man City in which the Reds can clinch the title.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/leeds-united-remove-osama-bin-laden-cut-out-from-stands-after-howler-308454" hreflang="en">Leeds United remove Osama bin Laden cut out from stands after howler</a></strong></p>

<p>Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp had earlier hoped that the encounter would be played at the Etihad Stadium due to logistical easiness.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I would prefer [that] it is in Manchester," Klopp said. "Otherwise it would be really difficult to organise. I don't exactly know how that would be but, [because] it will not be in Liverpool, it means we have to go somewhere where we [both clubs] need a hotel probably.</p>

<p>"We don't know how it would be organised. That is an issue but apart from that, we play where people send us to."<br />
Meanwhile, Liverpool could win the title if Man City lose their game against Chelsea on Thursday.<br />
&nbsp;</p>


The venue for the match between Manchester City and Liverpool on July 2 has been confirmed by the Manchester City Council and the much-awaited showdown will take place at the Etihad Stadium.

The venue for the match between Manchester City and Liverpool on July 2 has been confirmed by the Manchester City Council and the much-awaited showdown will take place at the Etihad Stadium. This was the only Premier League game to have not confirmed to be held at the original home venue following the UK’s football policing statement in May that six fixtures may need to be played at neutral venues. However, following a meeting of Manchester City Council’s safety advisory group on Thursday, the Etihad Stadium was given the nod for the match between the Blues and inevitable Premier League champions Liverpool. "The Council's Safety Advisory Group (SAG) for the Etihad Stadium met this morning (Thursday, June 25) to review the upcoming fixture between Manchester City FC and Liverpool FC," Manchester City Council confirmed in a statement. ALSO READ: 'That man probably came sick' - Novak Djokovic's parents accuse Grigor Dimitrov for spreading coronavirus at Adria Tour "Following the most recent round of Premier League fixtures which have all taken place behind closed doors, the SAG has signalled it has no objections to the above fixture taking place at the Etihad Stadium as planned at 8.15 pm, Thursday, July 2. As with all other Premier League matches this fixture will take place behind closed doors, with no fans present." The matches which were to be held at neutral venues, in the initial list of fixtures, had Merseyside derby, Man City’s home game against Newcastle, Manchester United’s game against Sheffield United and Newcastle vs Liverpool on July 26 and the match between Liverpool and Man City in which the Reds can clinch the title. ALSO READ: Leeds United remove Osama bin Laden cut out from stands after howler Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp had earlier hoped that the encounter would be played at the Etihad Stadium due to logistical easiness. "I would prefer [that] it is in Manchester," Klopp said. "Otherwise it would be really difficult to organise. I don't exactly know how that would be but, [because] it will not be in Liverpool, it means we have to go somewhere where we [both clubs] need a hotel probably. "We don't know how it would be organised. That is an issue but apart from that, we play where people send us to." Meanwhile, Liverpool could win the title if Man City lose their game against Chelsea on Thursday.

Premier League: Venue for Manchester City vs Liverpool announced

<p>Jet-car racer Jessi Combs posthumously became The World’s Fastest Woman, according to Guinness World Records. Combs died last summer in Oregon in an attempt to beat a land speed record after a mechanical failure in the front wheel.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Guinness announced that Combs as the fastest woman while announcing that the land speed record in the female category was achieved by her in the Alvord Desert in the USA.</p>

<h2><strong>"Jessi is the first person to break this record in more than 40 years"</strong></h2>

<p>"The fastest land speed record (female) is 841.338 kph (522.783 mph), and was achieved by Jessi Combs (USA) in the Alvord Desert, Oregon, USA, on 27 August 2019," the Guinness announcement reads. "Jessi is the first person to break this record in more than 40 years."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/that-man-probably-came-sick-novak-djokovics-parents-accuse-grigor-dimitrov-for-spreading-coronavirus-at-adria-tour-308472" hreflang="en">'That man probably came sick' - Novak Djokovic's parents accuse Grigor Dimitrov for spreading coronavirus at Adria Tour</a></strong></p>

<p>Combs, 39, was driving her ‘North American Eagle’ – a 56-foot-long jet-powered car when she died while attempting to top the woman’s land speed record of 512.7 miles an hour. Combs now is officially the fastest woman on earth as he broke the record held by Kitty O’Neil in the Alvord Desert in 1976.</p>

<p>Before her death, Combs, in an Instagram post, had made her intention clear.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It may seem a little crazy to walk directly into the line of fire ... those who are willing, are those who achieve great things," she said. "People say I’m crazy. I say thank you ;)"</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/connor-to-be-first-female-mcc-president-in-233-years-308445" hreflang="en">Connor to be first female MCC president in 233 years</a></strong></p>

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<p style=" margin:8px 0 0 0; padding:0 4px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/B1j8g4_F2UB/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_blank">It may seem a little crazy to walk directly into the line of fire... those who are willing, are those who achieve great things. . . People say I’m crazy. I say thank you ;) . . . #fastestwomanonearth #almost #fasterthanfast #jetcar #afterburner #landpseed @landspeed763 #iwillgofaster #gottabreak512 #aimingfor619 #currentlyat483 #northamericaneagle #i❤️afterburners</a></p>

<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;">A post shared by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/thejessicombs/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px;" target="_blank"> Jessi Combs</a> (@thejessicombs) on <time datetime="2019-08-24T21:22:20+00:00" style=" font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px;">Aug 24, 2019 at 2:22pm PDT</time></p>
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<p>During her attempt to achieve the world record, there was a mechanical failure in the front wheel, most likely caused by striking an object on the desert, as per Harney County Sherriff’s Office. Unfortunately, the front wheel failure shattered the front wheel assembly when the car was at a speed of more than 500mph.</p>

<p>Combs earned the nickname of ‘fastest woman on four wheels’ after setting a record of 398 mph during SuperSpeed Challenger in 2013. She attempted to beat the record in 2018 but failed to do so with a mechanical error ending her attempt early.</p>


Jet-car racer Jessi Combs posthumously became The World’s Fastest Woman, according to Guinness World Records. Combs died last summer in Oregon in an attempt to beat a land speed record after a mechanical failure in the front wheel.

Jet-car racer Jessi Combs posthumously became The World’s Fastest Woman, according to Guinness World Records. Combs died last summer in Oregon in an attempt to beat a land speed record after a mechanical failure in the front wheel. Guinness announced that Combs as the fastest woman while announcing that the land speed record in the female category was achieved by her in the Alvord Desert in the USA. "Jessi is the first person to break this record in more than 40 years" "The fastest land speed record (female) is 841.338 kph (522.783 mph), and was achieved by Jessi Combs (USA) in the Alvord Desert, Oregon, USA, on 27 August 2019," the Guinness announcement reads. "Jessi is the first person to break this record in more than 40 years." ALSO READ: 'That man probably came sick' - Novak Djokovic's parents accuse Grigor Dimitrov for spreading coronavirus at Adria Tour Combs, 39, was driving her ‘North American Eagle’ – a 56-foot-long jet-powered car when she died while attempting to top the woman’s land speed record of 512.7 miles an hour. Combs now is officially the fastest woman on earth as he broke the record held by Kitty O’Neil in the Alvord Desert in 1976. Before her death, Combs, in an Instagram post, had made her intention clear. "It may seem a little crazy to walk directly into the line of fire ... those who are willing, are those who achieve great things," she said. "People say I’m crazy. I say thank you ;)" ALSO READ: Connor to be first female MCC president in 233 years View this post on Instagram It may seem a little crazy to walk directly into the line of fire... those who are willing, are those who achieve great things. . . People say I’m crazy. I say thank you ;) . . . #fastestwomanonearth #almost #fasterthanfast #jetcar #afterburner #landpseed @landspeed763 #iwillgofaster #gottabreak512 #aimingfor619 #currentlyat483 #northamericaneagle #i❤️afterburners A post shared by Jessi Combs (@thejessicombs) on Aug 24, 2019 at 2:22pm PDT × During her attempt to achieve the world record, there was a mechanical failure in the front wheel, most likely caused by striking an object on the desert, as per Harney County Sherriff’s Office. Unfortunately, the front wheel failure shattered the front wheel assembly when the car was at a speed of more than 500mph. Combs earned the nickname of ‘fastest woman on four wheels’ after setting a record of 398 mph during SuperSpeed Challenger in 2013. She attempted to beat the record in 2018 but failed to do so with a mechanical error ending her attempt early.

Jessi Combs posthumously named Fastest Woman on Earth by Guinness World Records

<p>After accusing that the ICC 2011 World Cup final was “sold” by “certain parties”, former Sri Lanka sports minister Mahindananda Aluthgamage has now called his claim a “suspicion” that he wants to be investigated thoroughly, nine years after MS Dhoni-led Team India lifted the coveted trophy in Mumbai.</p>

<p>The Sri Lankan government has ordered an enquiry for the claims by Aluthgamage with a special investigation unit recording Aluthgamage’s statement on Wednesday. Apparently, he told the investigation team that he was only suspicious of fixing.</p>

<p>"I want my suspicion investigated," Aluthgamage told reporters.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/parents-started-thinking-about-inculcating-values-of-sport-after-1983-triumph-kapil-dev-308446" hreflang="en">Parents started thinking about inculcating values of sport after 1983 triumph: Kapil Dev</a></strong></p>

<p>"I gave to the Police, a copy of the complaint I lodged with the International Cricket Council (ICC) on 30 October 2011 regarding the said allegation as then Sports Minister," he said.</p>

<p>Aluthgamage has alleged that Sri Lanka “sold” the game to India and his claims were ridiculed by former Lankan captains Kumar Sangakkara and Mahela Jayawardene as the duo demanded evidence from him.</p>

<p>"Today I am telling you that we sold the 2011 world cup, I said this when I was the sports minister," Aluthgamage, who was the sports minister at the time, had stated.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/connor-to-be-first-female-mcc-president-in-233-years-308445" hreflang="en">Connor to be first female MCC president in 233 years</a></strong></p>

<p>"He needs to take his 'evidence' to the ICC and the Anti corruption and Security Unit so the claims can be investigated thoroughly," Sangakkara tweeted.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">He needs to take his “evidence” to the ICC and the Anti corruption and Security Unit so the claims can be investigated throughly <a href="https://t.co/51w2J5Jtpc">https://t.co/51w2J5Jtpc</a></p>
— Kumar Sangakkara (@KumarSanga2) <a href="https://twitter.com/KumarSanga2/status/1273578234718957568?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 18, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>Jayawardene, also a former captain who scored a hundred in that game, ridiculed the charge.</p>

<p>"Is the elections around the corner...Like the circus has started...Names and evidence?" he asked in a tweet.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">When some one accuses that we sold the 2011 WC naturaly it’s a big deal cus we don’t know how one could fix a match and not be part of the playing 11? Hopefully we will get enlightened after 9 years...😃👍 <a href="https://t.co/cmBtle5dNE">https://t.co/cmBtle5dNE</a></p>
— Mahela Jayawardena (@MahelaJay) <a href="https://twitter.com/MahelaJay/status/1273984356206252035?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 19, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>Aluthgamage had cleared that no players were involved in fixing the result, “but certain parties were”.</p>

<p>Even Aravinda de Silva, a former icon who was the then chief selector of Lankan side, has urged the BCCI to conduct its own investigation and put all the claims and rumours to bed.</p>


After accusing that the ICC 2011 World Cup final was “sold” by “certain parties”, former Sri Lanka sports minister Mahindananda Aluthgamage has now called his claim a “suspicion” that he wants to be investigated thoroughly, nine years after MS Dhoni-led Team India lifted the coveted trophy in Mumbai.

After accusing that the ICC 2011 World Cup final was “sold” by “certain parties”, former Sri Lanka sports minister Mahindananda Aluthgamage has now called his claim a “suspicion” that he wants to be investigated thoroughly, nine years after MS Dhoni-led Team India lifted the coveted trophy in Mumbai. The Sri Lankan government has ordered an enquiry for the claims by Aluthgamage with a special investigation unit recording Aluthgamage’s statement on Wednesday. Apparently, he told the investigation team that he was only suspicious of fixing. "I want my suspicion investigated," Aluthgamage told reporters. ALSO READ: Parents started thinking about inculcating values of sport after 1983 triumph: Kapil Dev "I gave to the Police, a copy of the complaint I lodged with the International Cricket Council (ICC) on 30 October 2011 regarding the said allegation as then Sports Minister," he said. Aluthgamage has alleged that Sri Lanka “sold” the game to India and his claims were ridiculed by former Lankan captains Kumar Sangakkara and Mahela Jayawardene as the duo demanded evidence from him. "Today I am telling you that we sold the 2011 world cup, I said this when I was the sports minister," Aluthgamage, who was the sports minister at the time, had stated. ALSO READ: Connor to be first female MCC president in 233 years "He needs to take his 'evidence' to the ICC and the Anti corruption and Security Unit so the claims can be investigated thoroughly," Sangakkara tweeted. He needs to take his “evidence” to the ICC and the Anti corruption and Security Unit so the claims can be investigated throughly https://t.co/51w2J5Jtpc — Kumar Sangakkara (@KumarSanga2) June 18, 2020 × Jayawardene, also a former captain who scored a hundred in that game, ridiculed the charge. "Is the elections around the corner...Like the circus has started...Names and evidence?" he asked in a tweet. When some one accuses that we sold the 2011 WC naturaly it’s a big deal cus we don’t know how one could fix a match and not be part of the playing 11? Hopefully we will get enlightened after 9 years...😃👍 https://t.co/cmBtle5dNE — Mahela Jayawardena (@MahelaJay) June 19, 2020 × Aluthgamage had cleared that no players were involved in fixing the result, “but certain parties were”. Even Aravinda de Silva, a former icon who was the then chief selector of Lankan side, has urged the BCCI to conduct its own investigation and put all the claims and rumours to bed.

After claiming Sri Lanka 'sold' 2011 WC final to India, Lankan minister says it's his 'suspicion'

<p>There was a massive uproar on social media when a cardboard cut of former al Qaeda leader Osama bin Laden was spotted in the stands at Elland Road as the image went viral on Twitter. With matches being played behind closed doors as efforts continue to curb the spread of COVID-19, many clubs have used cardboard cuts of fans to fill out the empty seats.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After the photograph of bin Laden went viral, Leeds took quick action and have now removed the cardboard cutout of the former al Qaeda leader.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Leeds have said that they will “ensure there are no more offensive images” in the stands before Saturday’s game against Fulham.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/luka-romero-15-becomes-youngest-ever-liga-player-308442" hreflang="en">Luka Romero, 15, becomes youngest ever Liga player</a></strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Bin laden.. how can the staff be ok with displaying that regardless if it was paid for? <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/lufc?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#lufc</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/crowdie?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#crowdie</a> <a href="https://t.co/abpqkBA6Bt">pic.twitter.com/abpqkBA6Bt</a></p>
— Seb (@seb_marsden) <a href="https://twitter.com/seb_marsden/status/1275776906944819200?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 24, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Bin Laden on the front row at Elland Road😂😂 <a href="https://t.co/5Pt2PLbpJf">pic.twitter.com/5Pt2PLbpJf</a></p>
— Football Away Days (@AwayDays_) <a href="https://twitter.com/AwayDays_/status/1275835223310307328?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 24, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Fans sent in selfies to Leeds United for crowd boards while matches are played behind closed doors. Anyone recognise The supporter on the front row? (Someone sent Osama Bin Laden) 🤦‍♀️🤦 <a href="https://t.co/qRjdgdYjps">pic.twitter.com/qRjdgdYjps</a></p>
— Anonymous Journalist (@AnonymousJourn9) <a href="https://twitter.com/AnonymousJourn9/status/1275874223895064577?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 24, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>Some weird cardboard cuts have been spotted all across the world matches with Australian media recently reporting, earlier this month, that a cutout of British serial killer Harold Shipman was spotted in the stands in a match between Penrith Panthers and Newcastle Knights in the National Rugby League game.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/new-generation-of-liverpool-fans-prepares-for-title-glory-308439" hreflang="en">New generation of Liverpool fans prepares for title glory</a></strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Football have Bin Laden. Rugby League has Harold Shipman (in Australia!) <a href="https://t.co/KqiihZDl3A">pic.twitter.com/KqiihZDl3A</a></p>
— Phil Newsom (@Newsom_13) <a href="https://twitter.com/Newsom_13/status/1275830859195613185?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 24, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>While artificial crowd sound has taken over the natural chants by fans in the stadiums, cardboard cuts and fans joining in via video-conference have become a new norm in the world of sports.</p>

<p>across sports have already said that feeling in front of empty stands doesn’t give the usual kick during matches but most of them are of the view that it should be continued unless it is safe to welcome the fans back in the stadiums.&nbsp;</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>


There was a massive uproar on social media when a cardboard cut of former al Qaeda leader Osama bin Laden was spotted in the stands at Elland Road as the image went viral on Twitter.

There was a massive uproar on social media when a cardboard cut of former al Qaeda leader Osama bin Laden was spotted in the stands at Elland Road as the image went viral on Twitter. With matches being played behind closed doors as efforts continue to curb the spread of COVID-19, many clubs have used cardboard cuts of fans to fill out the empty seats. After the photograph of bin Laden went viral, Leeds took quick action and have now removed the cardboard cutout of the former al Qaeda leader. Leeds have said that they will “ensure there are no more offensive images” in the stands before Saturday’s game against Fulham. ALSO READ: Luka Romero, 15, becomes youngest ever Liga player Bin laden.. how can the staff be ok with displaying that regardless if it was paid for? #lufc #crowdie pic.twitter.com/abpqkBA6Bt — Seb (@seb_marsden) June 24, 2020 × Bin Laden on the front row at Elland Road😂😂 pic.twitter.com/5Pt2PLbpJf — Football Away Days (@AwayDays_) June 24, 2020 × Fans sent in selfies to Leeds United for crowd boards while matches are played behind closed doors. Anyone recognise The supporter on the front row? (Someone sent Osama Bin Laden) 🤦‍♀️🤦 pic.twitter.com/qRjdgdYjps — Anonymous Journalist (@AnonymousJourn9) June 24, 2020 × Some weird cardboard cuts have been spotted all across the world matches with Australian media recently reporting, earlier this month, that a cutout of British serial killer Harold Shipman was spotted in the stands in a match between Penrith Panthers and Newcastle Knights in the National Rugby League game. ALSO READ: New generation of Liverpool fans prepares for title glory Football have Bin Laden. Rugby League has Harold Shipman (in Australia!) pic.twitter.com/KqiihZDl3A — Phil Newsom (@Newsom_13) June 24, 2020 × While artificial crowd sound has taken over the natural chants by fans in the stadiums, cardboard cuts and fans joining in via video-conference have become a new norm in the world of sports. across sports have already said that feeling in front of empty stands doesn’t give the usual kick during matches but most of them are of the view that it should be continued unless it is safe to welcome the fans back in the stadiums.

Leeds United remove Osama bin Laden cut out from stands after howler

<p>Harry Kane believes he is as fit as he has ever been after netting his first goal of 2020 as Tottenham kickstarted their challenge for a Champions League place next season with a 2-0 win over West Ham on Tuesday.</p>

<p>The England captain looked far more like his old self after a laboured performance in his first appearance for six months against Manchester United on Friday, and was rewarded with a goal eight minutes from time.</p>

<p>"I'm in good shape. I've been working very hard through my rehab, lockdown and training. I feel as fit as I probably ever have done before," Kane, who had surgery on a hamstring injury prior to the season's shutdown due to coronavirus, told Sky Sports.</p>

<p>"When you have been out for six months it is just getting that feeling back on the pitch. You can train as much as you want but being out here is totally different."</p>

<p>Tomas Soucek's own goal had opened the scoring as West Ham remain precariously poised outside the relegation zone only on goal difference.</p>

<p>But Hammers boss David Moyes was furious the opener was not ruled out for a handball by Davinson Sanchez as he flicked a corner into Soucek's path.</p>

<p>"I can't believe they have ruled that as a goal," said Moyes. "Who is on VAR tonight? He needs subbed I know that. That's the rules."</p>

<p>Jose Mourinho's men were well worthy of a first win in eight games dating back to February.</p>

<p>Victory takes Spurs to within six points of the top four and within one of Manchester United in fifth.</p>

<p>Should Manchester City's appeal against a two-season ban from European competitions not prove successful, fifth would be good enough to qualify for the 2020/21 Champions League.</p>

<p>"I am happy with the result, the clean sheet, it means the team is more solid, the players have less doubts," said Mourinho.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In keeping with many of the 14 games since the Premier League's restart seven days ago, this was another slow burner as Spurs took time to start picking holes in West Ham's rearguard.</p>

<p>Son Heung-min thought he had broken the deadlock on the stroke of half-time with a smart finish at Lukasz Fabianski's near post, but the goal was ruled out for offside after a VAR review.</p>

<p>Mourinho launched an impassioned defence of his record of working with world-class strikers on the eve of the game after criticism that his playing style could see Kane look for pastures new.</p>

<p>And Kane had no shortage of opportunities after the break as his near post flick was turned behind by Fabianksi before he fired wide after sprinting the full length of the field as Spurs broke dangerously from a West Ham corner.</p>

<p>"He has been phenomenal in lockdown, he did amazing work at home and he is in the condition to help the team," added Mourinho.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In between times, Pablo Fornals dragged wide West Ham's big chance to go in front and aid their battle to beat the drop.</p>

<p>Moyes's men were undone by one of their own when Soucek unwittingly turned a corner into his own net 26 minutes from time.</p>

<p>Jarrod Bowen smashed a shot against the post as the visitors suddenly had to alter their gameplan of containing Tottenham to look for an equaliser.</p>

<p>But in doing so, they left themselves exposed at the back and Kane timed his run perfectly from a Son pass before coolly slotting past Fabianski and collapsing to the ground in a mixture of relief and exhaustion.</p>

<p>"I probably should have scored one other but it was nice to put that one away," added Kane.</p>

<p>"As a striker it's what you want to do. You want to score goals and want to help win the games."</p>


Harry Kane believes he is as fit as he has ever been after netting his first goal of 2020 as Tottenham kickstarted their challenge for a Champions League place next season with a 2-0 win over West Ham on Tuesday.

Harry Kane believes he is as fit as he has ever been after netting his first goal of 2020 as Tottenham kickstarted their challenge for a Champions League place next season with a 2-0 win over West Ham on Tuesday. The England captain looked far more like his old self after a laboured performance in his first appearance for six months against Manchester United on Friday, and was rewarded with a goal eight minutes from time. "I'm in good shape. I've been working very hard through my rehab, lockdown and training. I feel as fit as I probably ever have done before," Kane, who had surgery on a hamstring injury prior to the season's shutdown due to coronavirus, told Sky Sports. "When you have been out for six months it is just getting that feeling back on the pitch. You can train as much as you want but being out here is totally different." Tomas Soucek's own goal had opened the scoring as West Ham remain precariously poised outside the relegation zone only on goal difference. But Hammers boss David Moyes was furious the opener was not ruled out for a handball by Davinson Sanchez as he flicked a corner into Soucek's path. "I can't believe they have ruled that as a goal," said Moyes. "Who is on VAR tonight? He needs subbed I know that. That's the rules." Jose Mourinho's men were well worthy of a first win in eight games dating back to February. Victory takes Spurs to within six points of the top four and within one of Manchester United in fifth. Should Manchester City's appeal against a two-season ban from European competitions not prove successful, fifth would be good enough to qualify for the 2020/21 Champions League. "I am happy with the result, the clean sheet, it means the team is more solid, the players have less doubts," said Mourinho. In keeping with many of the 14 games since the Premier League's restart seven days ago, this was another slow burner as Spurs took time to start picking holes in West Ham's rearguard. Son Heung-min thought he had broken the deadlock on the stroke of half-time with a smart finish at Lukasz Fabianski's near post, but the goal was ruled out for offside after a VAR review. Mourinho launched an impassioned defence of his record of working with world-class strikers on the eve of the game after criticism that his playing style could see Kane look for pastures new. And Kane had no shortage of opportunities after the break as his near post flick was turned behind by Fabianksi before he fired wide after sprinting the full length of the field as Spurs broke dangerously from a West Ham corner. "He has been phenomenal in lockdown, he did amazing work at home and he is in the condition to help the team," added Mourinho. In between times, Pablo Fornals dragged wide West Ham's big chance to go in front and aid their battle to beat the drop. Moyes's men were undone by one of their own when Soucek unwittingly turned a corner into his own net 26 minutes from time. Jarrod Bowen smashed a shot against the post as the visitors suddenly had to alter their gameplan of containing Tottenham to look for an equaliser. But in doing so, they left themselves exposed at the back and Kane timed his run perfectly from a Son pass before coolly slotting past Fabianski and collapsing to the ground in a mixture of relief and exhaustion. "I probably should have scored one other but it was nice to put that one away," added Kane. "As a striker it's what you want to do. You want to score goals and want to help win the games."

'Fitter than ever' Kane strikes to keep Tottenham in Champions League chase

<p>"First love cannot be forgotten," is how one member of Kapil Dev's team describes India's debut cricket World Cup win in 1983 -- a victory that aroused passions so fierce they would change the game forever.</p>

<p>When 'Kapil Devils' stunned the West Indies at Lord's, the traditional home of cricket, it triggered an obsession with the sport in India and created its biggest market -- ultimately making India's board the richest and most powerful in the world.</p>

<p>India was previously a hockey-loving nation, owing to their five Olympic gold medals between 1948 and 1980. But on June 25, 1983, India's cricketers became world-beaters.</p>

<p>Nobody saw the victory coming, after India came into the one-day tournament with just one win -- against East Africa -- in the previous two editions.</p>

<p>"We never, ever imagined we would reach the quarter-final or the knockout stage," Syed Kirmani, the team's flamboyant wicketkeeper-batsman, told AFP.</p>

<p>"A few of my colleagues in that team had expressed themselves that 'we are going to have fun, enjoy ourselves and that's it'.</p>

<p>"But we laid a very strong foundation by winning the Cup. It is like the first love cannot be forgotten. Thirty-seven years have gone, people still remember our victory."</p>

<p>He added: "The younger generation are also keen to know when we won the first World Cup and who were the players. Oh God, it is a fantastic, nostalgic feeling."</p>

<h2>- Watershed moment -</h2>

<p>India's run to the title is soon to get the Bollywood treatment, with popular actor Ranveer Singh playing Dev.</p>

<p>MS Dhoni later led India to the inaugural Twenty20 World Cup title in 2007 and their second ODI world trophy in 2011, but the victory in England will always remain a watershed moment.</p>

<p>The Board of Control for Cricket in India is now the wealthiest association in the game and players like Sunil Gavaskar, part of the 1983 team, Sachin Tendulkar and Virat Kohli have been instrumental in taking Indian cricket to greater heights.</p>

<p>"The board started getting commercial benefits only after the World Cup win and for us it was a game-changer," Sunil Valson, who was part of the 14-member squad, told AFP.</p>

<p>"Understand nowadays whenever the Indian team goes for a World Cup the expectations are so high on them. But in '83 nobody expected it, but the way we played was just amazing.</p>

<p>"'83 will be '83, that changed the passion, the trend. Money came into the sport much later, but certainly it was a great victory that came against any expectations."</p>

<h2>- 'One man's genius' -</h2>

<p>India were reeling at 17 for five in a crucial group match against Zimbabwe when Dev's unbeaten 175 won the game and proved to be the turning point for their campaign.</p>

<p>Kapil's Devils outplayed hosts England in the semi-finals and then defended a modest total of 183 in the title clash.</p>

<p>Roger Binny, who sent back West Indies skipper Clive Lloyd for eight in the final, said Dev's leadership and India's all-rounders were key to the team's success.</p>

<p>"I think it has got be the all-rounders. If you see the scores in all the matches, contributions came from the latter half of the team," Binny told AFP.</p>

<p>"Definitely one strong point was (Dev's) captaincy. Also when we beat the West Indies in the first game in Manchester, that lifted the spirit of the guys."</p>

<p>Veteran journalist Ayaz Memon, one of the half-a-dozen Indian journalists that travelled to the World Cup's third edition, said optimism was non-existent at the start.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Expectations were zero when we went, because India's past record in the World Cups had been dismal," Memon told AFP.</p>

<p>"I did not even see the first match, India v West Indies, because I thought they would lose easily, but a lot of things conspired to make it India's tournament.</p>

<p>"I was witness to Kapil Dev's innings at Tunbridge Wells (against Zimbabwe). BBC was on one-day strike, so there was no radio or TV commentary.&nbsp;One man's genius gave India the direction to go for glory. It lifted up the self-belief in the team."&nbsp;</p>

<p>He added: "In 1983, what India did was turn the game upside completely on its head in the power matrix. Suddenly you found India were champions, therefore their participation in the sport became greater and bigger."</p>


"First love cannot be forgotten," is how one member of Kapil Dev's team describes India's debut cricket World Cup win in 1983 -- a victory that aroused passions so fierce they would change the game forever.

"First love cannot be forgotten," is how one member of Kapil Dev's team describes India's debut cricket World Cup win in 1983 -- a victory that aroused passions so fierce they would change the game forever. When 'Kapil Devils' stunned the West Indies at Lord's, the traditional home of cricket, it triggered an obsession with the sport in India and created its biggest market -- ultimately making India's board the richest and most powerful in the world. India was previously a hockey-loving nation, owing to their five Olympic gold medals between 1948 and 1980. But on June 25, 1983, India's cricketers became world-beaters. Nobody saw the victory coming, after India came into the one-day tournament with just one win -- against East Africa -- in the previous two editions. "We never, ever imagined we would reach the quarter-final or the knockout stage," Syed Kirmani, the team's flamboyant wicketkeeper-batsman, told AFP. "A few of my colleagues in that team had expressed themselves that 'we are going to have fun, enjoy ourselves and that's it'. "But we laid a very strong foundation by winning the Cup. It is like the first love cannot be forgotten. Thirty-seven years have gone, people still remember our victory." He added: "The younger generation are also keen to know when we won the first World Cup and who were the players. Oh God, it is a fantastic, nostalgic feeling." - Watershed moment - India's run to the title is soon to get the Bollywood treatment, with popular actor Ranveer Singh playing Dev. MS Dhoni later led India to the inaugural Twenty20 World Cup title in 2007 and their second ODI world trophy in 2011, but the victory in England will always remain a watershed moment. The Board of Control for Cricket in India is now the wealthiest association in the game and players like Sunil Gavaskar, part of the 1983 team, Sachin Tendulkar and Virat Kohli have been instrumental in taking Indian cricket to greater heights. "The board started getting commercial benefits only after the World Cup win and for us it was a game-changer," Sunil Valson, who was part of the 14-member squad, told AFP. "Understand nowadays whenever the Indian team goes for a World Cup the expectations are so high on them. But in '83 nobody expected it, but the way we played was just amazing. "'83 will be '83, that changed the passion, the trend. Money came into the sport much later, but certainly it was a great victory that came against any expectations." - 'One man's genius' - India were reeling at 17 for five in a crucial group match against Zimbabwe when Dev's unbeaten 175 won the game and proved to be the turning point for their campaign. Kapil's Devils outplayed hosts England in the semi-finals and then defended a modest total of 183 in the title clash. Roger Binny, who sent back West Indies skipper Clive Lloyd for eight in the final, said Dev's leadership and India's all-rounders were key to the team's success. "I think it has got be the all-rounders. If you see the scores in all the matches, contributions came from the latter half of the team," Binny told AFP. "Definitely one strong point was (Dev's) captaincy. Also when we beat the West Indies in the first game in Manchester, that lifted the spirit of the guys." Veteran journalist Ayaz Memon, one of the half-a-dozen Indian journalists that travelled to the World Cup's third edition, said optimism was non-existent at the start. "Expectations were zero when we went, because India's past record in the World Cups had been dismal," Memon told AFP. "I did not even see the first match, India v West Indies, because I thought they would lose easily, but a lot of things conspired to make it India's tournament. "I was witness to Kapil Dev's innings at Tunbridge Wells (against Zimbabwe). BBC was on one-day strike, so there was no radio or TV commentary. One man's genius gave India the direction to go for glory. It lifted up the self-belief in the team." He added: "In 1983, what India did was turn the game upside completely on its head in the power matrix. Suddenly you found India were champions, therefore their participation in the sport became greater and bigger."

'First love' - how 1983 World Cup win triggered India's obsession with cricket

<p>Manchester City forward Sergio Aguero underwent knee surgery under Dr Ramon Cugat in Barcelona on Wednesday as the Argentina international said that the operation went well. Aguero injured his knee during the match against Burnley and was substituted by teammate Gabriel Jesus.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Man City went on to defeat Burnley 5-0 in what was a thumping performance by the defending <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/premier-league">Premier League</a> champions.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While manager Pep Guardiola initially said that the injury doesn’t look good, Man City would be encouraged by the high probability of Aguero being available for knockout stages of UEFA Champions League given the Blues advance to the Final 8. Guardiola earlier feared the 32-year-old could miss the rest of the league season which ends in July.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-david-luiz-signs-arsenal-contract-extension-308197" hreflang="en">Premier League: David Luiz signs Arsenal contract extension</a></strong></p>

<p>“Everything went well, and I’ll soon begin recovery,” Aguero said on Twitter with a photograph of himself lying in a hospital bed.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="es">Todo salió bien y pronto comenzaré con la recuperación. Muchas gracias al Dr. Cugat y a su equipo y a todos por tanto apoyo//Everything went well, and I'll soon begin recovery. A big thanks to Dr Cugat and his team – and to all of you for your support 🤟🏽 <a href="https://t.co/Frm07cN3WF">pic.twitter.com/Frm07cN3WF</a></p>
— Sergio Kun Aguero (@aguerosergiokun) <a href="https://twitter.com/aguerosergiokun/status/1275788839437598724?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 24, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>“After the surgery... he will tell us with more accuracy when he can come back,” he told reporters ahead of Thursday’s game at Chelsea.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fitter-than-ever-kane-strikes-to-keep-tottenham-in-champions-league-chase-308158" hreflang="en">'Fitter than ever' Kane strikes to keep Tottenham in Champions League chase</a></strong></p>

<p>Aguero flew to Barcelona on Tuesday to see specialist doctor Damon Cugat and City would be optimistic for his return in August, when Champions League resumes.</p>

<p>City lead 2-1 against Real Madrid in the first leg of their round of 16 match&nbsp;and would be hoping to enter the last eight of the elite competition which will be held in Lison, Portugal.<br />
&nbsp;</p>


Manchester City forward Sergio Aguero underwent knee surgery under Dr Ramon Cugat in Barcelona on Wednesday as the Argentina international said that the operation went well.

Manchester City forward Sergio Aguero underwent knee surgery under Dr Ramon Cugat in Barcelona on Wednesday as the Argentina international said that the operation went well. Aguero injured his knee during the match against Burnley and was substituted by teammate Gabriel Jesus. Man City went on to defeat Burnley 5-0 in what was a thumping performance by the defending Premier League champions. While manager Pep Guardiola initially said that the injury doesn’t look good, Man City would be encouraged by the high probability of Aguero being available for knockout stages of UEFA Champions League given the Blues advance to the Final 8. Guardiola earlier feared the 32-year-old could miss the rest of the league season which ends in July. ALSO READ: Premier League: David Luiz signs Arsenal contract extension “Everything went well, and I’ll soon begin recovery,” Aguero said on Twitter with a photograph of himself lying in a hospital bed. Todo salió bien y pronto comenzaré con la recuperación. Muchas gracias al Dr. Cugat y a su equipo y a todos por tanto apoyo//Everything went well, and I'll soon begin recovery. A big thanks to Dr Cugat and his team – and to all of you for your support 🤟🏽 pic.twitter.com/Frm07cN3WF — Sergio Kun Aguero (@aguerosergiokun) June 24, 2020 × “After the surgery... he will tell us with more accuracy when he can come back,” he told reporters ahead of Thursday’s game at Chelsea. ALSO READ: 'Fitter than ever' Kane strikes to keep Tottenham in Champions League chase Aguero flew to Barcelona on Tuesday to see specialist doctor Damon Cugat and City would be optimistic for his return in August, when Champions League resumes. City lead 2-1 against Real Madrid in the first leg of their round of 16 match and would be hoping to enter the last eight of the elite competition which will be held in Lison, Portugal.

Sergio Aguero's knee surgery goes well, expected to return in August

<p>He may be a 17-time grand slam champion, world number 1 and on-course to become the most successful men's tennis player of all time. But Novak Djokovic's stock has taken a real pounding during the COVID-19 pandemic.&nbsp;The fallout from the Adria Tour is the latest in a series of gaffes from the Serbian over the last 3 months - and his position as the leader of the ATP players council now seems untenable.</p>

<h2>Boneheaded...Irresponsible...Disastrous...Shocking...</h2>

<p>These are just some of the words that have been used to describe Novak Djokovic and his ill-fated Adria Tour over the last week...</p>

<p>The catastrophe had seemed inevitable ever since the first images of the opening leg in Belgrade hit the internet - packed stands, Kids’ Day celebrations, players hugging and high-fiving each other despite the COVID-19 pandemic.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/novak-djokovics-faulty-serve-to-the-tennis-world-308282" hreflang="en">Novak Djokovic's faulty serve to the tennis world</a></strong></p>

<p>And it predictably struck in Zadar this past weekend - as 2 coaches and 4 players including Djokovic himself tested positive for the coronavirus...</p>

<p>After his initial defiance - the Serbian tried to save face with an apology in which he conceded it was too soon to host the charity event without any distancing measures - but the damage had already been done.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Even Djokovic’s good friend Andy Murray had no way to defend him - particularly over this party in a Belgrade night club, where forget distancing - the players were dancing around shirtless.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wasnt-a-surprise-really-andy-murray-reacts-to-novak-djokovic-testing-positive-for-coronavirus-308223" hreflang="en">'Wasn't a surprise really': Andy Murray reacts to Novak Djokovic testing positive for coronavirus</a></strong></p>

<p>Murray said - “in hindsight, with what’s happened there, it is not a good look. When you are going through a time like this, it’s important any of the top athletes around the world should be showing that we are taking this extremely seriously, knowing that we are using social distancing measures and whatever it is"</p>

<p>All through the lockdown - Djokovic has found himself on the wrong side of the coronavirus debate...</p>

<p>In April he said he was opposed to the idea of vaccinations - and was slammed by the Serbian health authority for fueling conspiracy theories...</p>

<p>His ignorance of science has been on display in numerous social media chats with a charlatan - with Djokovic going as far as to say that the 'power of prayer' could purify polluted water.</p>

<p>Even Djokovic’s wife Jelena - who has also tested positive - promoted a tin-foil theory linking 5-g technology to the coronavirus - that was flagged as false information by Instagram.</p>

<p>The Djoker has always held controversial opinions - but now his leadership as the head of the ATP players’ council is also under question.</p>

<p>"I don't know. Honestly, when I sit in those meetings, I don't know how they -- how it really works and how they get to those positions but, put it this way, I don't think he (Novak Djokovic) should be having a players' party and dancing all over each other and then two very good tennis players have tested positive. He should feel some responsibility in his event and how it's transpired really</p>

<p>Criticism of Djokovic from his fellow players began earlier this month when he opposed the u-s open going ahead over what he called 'extreme protocols'...</p>

<p>The Serbian was also accused of missing key player council meetings with the ATP about safety and tennis's plans to return to action in order to play football.</p>

<p>Last year - he was instrumental in the exit of ATP chief executive Chris Kermode...prompting such concern from Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal that they decided to rejoin the 10-man council and provide a powerful contrarian view...&nbsp;</p>

<p>Now that his Adria Tour has single-handedly jeopardised the return of tour-level tennis - it is inconceivable for Djokovic to be allowed to continue as the chief representative of the interests of all the players.<br />
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He may be a 17-time grand slam champion, world number 1 and on-course to become the most successful men's tennis player of all time. But Novak Djokovic's stock has taken a real pounding during the COVID-19 pandemic.

He may be a 17-time grand slam champion, world number 1 and on-course to become the most successful men's tennis player of all time. But Novak Djokovic's stock has taken a real pounding during the COVID-19 pandemic. The fallout from the Adria Tour is the latest in a series of gaffes from the Serbian over the last 3 months - and his position as the leader of the ATP players council now seems untenable. Boneheaded...Irresponsible...Disastrous...Shocking... These are just some of the words that have been used to describe Novak Djokovic and his ill-fated Adria Tour over the last week... The catastrophe had seemed inevitable ever since the first images of the opening leg in Belgrade hit the internet - packed stands, Kids’ Day celebrations, players hugging and high-fiving each other despite the COVID-19 pandemic. ALSO READ: Novak Djokovic's faulty serve to the tennis world And it predictably struck in Zadar this past weekend - as 2 coaches and 4 players including Djokovic himself tested positive for the coronavirus... After his initial defiance - the Serbian tried to save face with an apology in which he conceded it was too soon to host the charity event without any distancing measures - but the damage had already been done. Even Djokovic’s good friend Andy Murray had no way to defend him - particularly over this party in a Belgrade night club, where forget distancing - the players were dancing around shirtless. ALSO READ: 'Wasn't a surprise really': Andy Murray reacts to Novak Djokovic testing positive for coronavirus Murray said - “in hindsight, with what’s happened there, it is not a good look. When you are going through a time like this, it’s important any of the top athletes around the world should be showing that we are taking this extremely seriously, knowing that we are using social distancing measures and whatever it is" All through the lockdown - Djokovic has found himself on the wrong side of the coronavirus debate... In April he said he was opposed to the idea of vaccinations - and was slammed by the Serbian health authority for fueling conspiracy theories... His ignorance of science has been on display in numerous social media chats with a charlatan - with Djokovic going as far as to say that the 'power of prayer' could purify polluted water. Even Djokovic’s wife Jelena - who has also tested positive - promoted a tin-foil theory linking 5-g technology to the coronavirus - that was flagged as false information by Instagram. The Djoker has always held controversial opinions - but now his leadership as the head of the ATP players’ council is also under question. "I don't know. Honestly, when I sit in those meetings, I don't know how they -- how it really works and how they get to those positions but, put it this way, I don't think he (Novak Djokovic) should be having a players' party and dancing all over each other and then two very good tennis players have tested positive. He should feel some responsibility in his event and how it's transpired really Criticism of Djokovic from his fellow players began earlier this month when he opposed the u-s open going ahead over what he called 'extreme protocols'... The Serbian was also accused of missing key player council meetings with the ATP about safety and tennis's plans to return to action in order to play football. Last year - he was instrumental in the exit of ATP chief executive Chris Kermode...prompting such concern from Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal that they decided to rejoin the 10-man council and provide a powerful contrarian view... Now that his Adria Tour has single-handedly jeopardised the return of tour-level tennis - it is inconceivable for Djokovic to be allowed to continue as the chief representative of the interests of all the players.

Adria Tour: Latest series of gaffes from Novak Djokovic

<p>Fast bowler Jofra Archer has been delayed from joining the England squad after he underwent a precautionary test for COVID-19 when a member of his household felt unwell last weekend, the England and Wales Cricket Board said.</p>

<p>Archer was supposed to link up with the England team, who are going into isolation head of their test series against West Indies, in Southampton on Tuesday.</p>

<p>“Archer, and members of his household, have tested negative for COVID-19,” the ECB said. “He will have a second test tomorrow (Wednesday), and if he tests negative, he will join up with the training group on Thursday.”</p>

<p>The first test starts in Southampton on July 8 and Archer said on Monday that he was fit and ready for the three-match series after battling an elbow injury.</p>


Fast bowler Jofra Archer has been delayed from joining the England squad after he underwent a precautionary test for COVID-19 when a member of his household felt unwell last weekend, the England and Wales Cricket Board said.

Fast bowler Jofra Archer has been delayed from joining the England squad after he underwent a precautionary test for COVID-19 when a member of his household felt unwell last weekend, the England and Wales Cricket Board said. Archer was supposed to link up with the England team, who are going into isolation head of their test series against West Indies, in Southampton on Tuesday. “Archer, and members of his household, have tested negative for COVID-19,” the ECB said. “He will have a second test tomorrow (Wednesday), and if he tests negative, he will join up with the training group on Thursday.” The first test starts in Southampton on July 8 and Archer said on Monday that he was fit and ready for the three-match series after battling an elbow injury.

Archer delays joining England squad after taking precautionary COVID-19 test

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