The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 is all set to commence on Friday but franchises might have to go ahead with their respective season openers without their full-strength squads. With COVID-19 protocols and mandatory quarantine in place, some of the key players from each franchise will be missing the first match.&nbsp;

Let us take a look at the list of names who will be missing the first match of their respective franchise.

<h2>Mumbai Indians</h2>

The defending champions are set to miss key opener Quinton de Kock and pacer Adam Milne. The two overseas players landed in India early this week and are yet to complete their seven-day quarantine. The duo won’t be available for IPL 2021 opener on Friday.

<h2>Delhi Capitals</h2>

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/vvs-laxman-to-wion-delhi-capitals-captaincy-will-help-rishabh-pant-reach-his-potential-376136" hreflang="en">VVS Laxman to WION: DC captaincy will help Rishabh Pant</a>

Fast bowling duo of Kagiso Rabada and Anrich Nortje will be missing Delhi Capitals’ opening match against Chennai Super Kings on April 10. The South Africa pacers are undergoing quarantine for a week and are likely to be a part of the playing XI in DC’s match on April 15 versus Rajasthan Royals. Axar Patel, who had tested positive for COVID-19, is also expected to miss DC’s first match.

<h2>Royal Challengers Bangalore</h2>

Australian spinner Adam Zampa will be an absentee from RCB’s season opener due to his marriage. Whereas New Zealand opener Finn Allen will also miss the match due to the mandatory seven-day quarantine period.&nbsp;

<h2>Chennai Super Kings</h2>

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-mi-vs-rcb-virats-royal-challengers-to-lock-horns-with-rohits-mumbai-indians-376154" hreflang="en">IPL 2021, MI vs RCB: Preview, probable XI and stats</a>

South African pacer Lungi Ngidi will miss CSK’s season opener similar to Delhi Capitals’ Anrich Nortje and Kagiso Rabada. The Proteas pacer is undergoing a mandatory seven-day quarantine after arriving in India early this week.&nbsp;

<h2>Rajasthan Royals</h2>

England pacer Jofra Archer will miss a few matches due to his finger injury. However, there aren’t any more absentees from the RR squad and the Sanju Samson-led outfit will have their full-strength squad sans Archer available.

The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 is all set to commence on Friday but franchises might have to go ahead with their respective season openers without their full-strength squads.

The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 is all set to commence on Friday but franchises might have to go ahead with their respective season openers without their full-strength squads. With COVID-19 protocols and mandatory quarantine in place, some of the key players from each franchise will be missing the first match. Let us take a look at the list of names who will be missing the first match of their respective franchise. Mumbai Indians The defending champions are set to miss key opener Quinton de Kock and pacer Adam Milne. The two overseas players landed in India early this week and are yet to complete their seven-day quarantine. The duo won’t be available for IPL 2021 opener on Friday. Delhi Capitals ALSO READ: VVS Laxman to WION: DC captaincy will help Rishabh Pant Fast bowling duo of Kagiso Rabada and Anrich Nortje will be missing Delhi Capitals’ opening match against Chennai Super Kings on April 10. The South Africa pacers are undergoing quarantine for a week and are likely to be a part of the playing XI in DC’s match on April 15 versus Rajasthan Royals. Axar Patel, who had tested positive for COVID-19, is also expected to miss DC’s first match. Royal Challengers Bangalore Australian spinner Adam Zampa will be an absentee from RCB’s season opener due to his marriage. Whereas New Zealand opener Finn Allen will also miss the match due to the mandatory seven-day quarantine period. Chennai Super Kings ALSO READ: IPL 2021, MI vs RCB: Preview, probable XI and stats South African pacer Lungi Ngidi will miss CSK’s season opener similar to Delhi Capitals’ Anrich Nortje and Kagiso Rabada. The Proteas pacer is undergoing a mandatory seven-day quarantine after arriving in India early this week. Rajasthan Royals England pacer Jofra Archer will miss a few matches due to his finger injury. However, there aren’t any more absentees from the RR squad and the Sanju Samson-led outfit will have their full-strength squad sans Archer available.

From Rabada to Archer - Key players set to miss first IPL 2021 match of their teams

Delhi Capitals spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has said that defending champions Mumbai Indians (MI) will start as hot favourites in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021, set to start on Friday. The Rohit Sharma-led Mumbai Indians are eyeing a hat-trick of IPL wins after winning their fifth trophy in the year 2020. <o:p></o:p>

Analysing Mumbai Indians, Ashwin said that while every team has its area of strength, MI’s experience and power-packed line-up make them stand out from their competitors. &nbsp;<o:p></o:p>

“Every team is strong, and I am not making a diplomatic statement. But I definitely think Mumbai has got a powerful and experienced squad. Mumbai will always start as favourites in this competition. I think Mumbai is the team to beat,” Ashwin said on his YouTube channel.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-mumbai-indians-team-preview-a-dream-hat-trick-on-cards-for-rohit-sharma-and-co-375947" hreflang="en">IPL 2021, MI - Team Preview: A dream hat-trick on cards for Rohit and Co.?</a>

While lavishing praises on Mumbai Indians, Ashwin also backed his side Delhi Capitals to carry the confidence of last season. The veteran spinner backed DC to perform well in the 14th edition of the cash-rich tournament.<o:p></o:p>

“Good (On DC’s chances), well-balanced one. Last year, our batting did not come well together. It was understandable due to lockdown and all that. But this year, in the kind of form in which Rishabh is, definitely that (team’s batting) also will get sorted out,” he stated.<o:p></o:p>

“We have a good chance. But if you see the last few years, it is not always about the top two or three sides. Every team picks players judiciously and have good balance and options. The IPL is in a new caravan model, so conditions also will play a part,” Ashwin added.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/vvs-laxman-to-wion-delhi-capitals-captaincy-will-help-rishabh-pant-reach-his-potential-376136" hreflang="en">VVS Laxman to WION: DC captaincy will help Rishabh Pant</a>

The IPL 2021 is set to be kick-started on April 9 with Mumbai Indians locking horns with Royal Challengers Bangalore in the season opener in Chennai.<o:p></o:p>

Delhi Capitals spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has said that defending champions Mumbai Indians (MI) will start as hot favourites in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021, set to start on Friday.

Delhi Capitals spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has said that defending champions Mumbai Indians (MI) will start as hot favourites in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021, set to start on Friday. The Rohit Sharma-led Mumbai Indians are eyeing a hat-trick of IPL wins after winning their fifth trophy in the year 2020. Analysing Mumbai Indians, Ashwin said that while every team has its area of strength, MI’s experience and power-packed line-up make them stand out from their competitors. “Every team is strong, and I am not making a diplomatic statement. But I definitely think Mumbai has got a powerful and experienced squad. Mumbai will always start as favourites in this competition. I think Mumbai is the team to beat,” Ashwin said on his YouTube channel. ALSO READ: IPL 2021, MI - Team Preview: A dream hat-trick on cards for Rohit and Co.? While lavishing praises on Mumbai Indians, Ashwin also backed his side Delhi Capitals to carry the confidence of last season. The veteran spinner backed DC to perform well in the 14th edition of the cash-rich tournament. “Good (On DC’s chances), well-balanced one. Last year, our batting did not come well together. It was understandable due to lockdown and all that. But this year, in the kind of form in which Rishabh is, definitely that (team’s batting) also will get sorted out,” he stated. “We have a good chance. But if you see the last few years, it is not always about the top two or three sides. Every team picks players judiciously and have good balance and options. The IPL is in a new caravan model, so conditions also will play a part,” Ashwin added. ALSO READ: VVS Laxman to WION: DC captaincy will help Rishabh Pant The IPL 2021 is set to be kick-started on April 9 with Mumbai Indians locking horns with Royal Challengers Bangalore in the season opener in Chennai.

Powerful and experienced squad: R Ashwin feels Mumbai Indians are hot favourites in IPL 2021

Rory McIlroy struck his father with a wayward shot in Thursday's opening round of the Masters on the way to his worst start at Augusta National, a four-over par 76.

The 31-year-old from Northern Ireland, a four-time major winner, can complete a career Grand Slam with a Masters triumph, but he has been working on his swing and struggling to find consistency.

Summing up his issues was his second shot at the par-4 seventh hole, with McIlroy slightly behind a tree to the left and coming off back-to-back bogeys.

Trying to bend his approach around a tree, McIlroy instead sliced the ball well right, the errant ball striking his father on the back of a leg as he was walking to the green.

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Rory McIlroy hit his dad with an errant approach shot on No. 7 during the first round of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/theMasters?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#theMasters</a> <a href="https://t.co/uEle8iqeyR">pic.twitter.com/uEle8iqeyR</a>
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"I should ask for an autographed glove," the elder McIlroy joked.

Rory McIlroy joked that he might sign something that would come in more useful to heal his dad's sore calf.

"He has seen me sign plenty of stuff over the years, so I think that's the least of his worries," the younger McIlroy said.

"I think he just needs to go and put some ice on -- maybe I'll autograph a bag of frozen peas for him."

McIlroy, whose worst prior Masters start was last year's 75, had already seen his father down the right side and was aiming at him with plans for the ball to curl back toward the green, which it didn't do, setting up a third bogey in a row.

"I knew it was my dad when I was aiming at him," McIlroy said.

"In fairness, I was trying to turn it off. It was a perfect shot. It was dead straight.

"But I think he was OK. He didn't limp away. He walked away pretty swiftly so that was all right."

McIlroy's problems aren't as easy to walk off. He hasn't won since 2019 in Shanghai and hasn't won a major since the 2014 PGA Championship.

"It still didn't feel quite 100% but I was encouraged by some of the stuff I saw out there," McIlroy said of a round that featured six bogeys and two birdies.

<h2>- 'I hung in there' -</h2>

Swing coach Pete Cowen is trying to simplify McIlroy's swing motion, but changes aren't simple.

"Any time you're working on things with your swing, it's going to feel very different, but it's not as if I haven't done these things before," McIlroy said.

"That's the thing. It's like you get into these bad habits and that feels normal, and then you get it back into position where I've been a million times before and it just feels a little different."

Firm and fast conditions had many of the world's top players scrambling.

"I hung in there, hit some good shots coming in. I'm quite encouraged by the way I hit it on the way in," McIlroy said.

"Could have made a couple more birdies, but it's not as if anyone is going really low.

"The par-5s you can birdie but then you have to be happy with giving yourself 25-, 30-footers every time. If you can do that, you've played a really good round of golf."

Rory McIlroy struck his father with a wayward shot in Thursday's opening round of the Masters on the way to his worst start at Augusta National, a four-over par 76.

Rory McIlroy struck his father with a wayward shot in Thursday's opening round of the Masters on the way to his worst start at Augusta National, a four-over par 76. The 31-year-old from Northern Ireland, a four-time major winner, can complete a career Grand Slam with a Masters triumph, but he has been working on his swing and struggling to find consistency. Summing up his issues was his second shot at the par-4 seventh hole, with McIlroy slightly behind a tree to the left and coming off back-to-back bogeys. Trying to bend his approach around a tree, McIlroy instead sliced the ball well right, the errant ball striking his father on the back of a leg as he was walking to the green. Rory McIlroy hit his dad with an errant approach shot on No. 7 during the first round of #theMasters pic.twitter.com/uEle8iqeyR — PGA TOUR (@PGATOUR) April 8, 2021 × "I should ask for an autographed glove," the elder McIlroy joked. Rory McIlroy joked that he might sign something that would come in more useful to heal his dad's sore calf. "He has seen me sign plenty of stuff over the years, so I think that's the least of his worries," the younger McIlroy said. "I think he just needs to go and put some ice on -- maybe I'll autograph a bag of frozen peas for him." McIlroy, whose worst prior Masters start was last year's 75, had already seen his father down the right side and was aiming at him with plans for the ball to curl back toward the green, which it didn't do, setting up a third bogey in a row. "I knew it was my dad when I was aiming at him," McIlroy said. "In fairness, I was trying to turn it off. It was a perfect shot. It was dead straight. "But I think he was OK. He didn't limp away. He walked away pretty swiftly so that was all right." McIlroy's problems aren't as easy to walk off. He hasn't won since 2019 in Shanghai and hasn't won a major since the 2014 PGA Championship. "It still didn't feel quite 100% but I was encouraged by some of the stuff I saw out there," McIlroy said of a round that featured six bogeys and two birdies. - 'I hung in there' - Swing coach Pete Cowen is trying to simplify McIlroy's swing motion, but changes aren't simple. "Any time you're working on things with your swing, it's going to feel very different, but it's not as if I haven't done these things before," McIlroy said. "That's the thing. It's like you get into these bad habits and that feels normal, and then you get it back into position where I've been a million times before and it just feels a little different." Firm and fast conditions had many of the world's top players scrambling. "I hung in there, hit some good shots coming in. I'm quite encouraged by the way I hit it on the way in," McIlroy said. "Could have made a couple more birdies, but it's not as if anyone is going really low. "The par-5s you can birdie but then you have to be happy with giving yourself 25-, 30-footers every time. If you can do that, you've played a really good round of golf."

Watch: McIlroy hits dad with errant shot in Masters meltdown

Kenya on Thursday started vaccinating its Olympic athletes against Covid-19, paving the way to compete in the Tokyo Games.

All the 75 athletes in the Olympic team bubble at Nairobi's Kasarani stadium were vaccinated on Thursday, in an exercise which will also cover the Paralympic teams, rugby sevens and the officials working with Kenya Safari Rally preparations.

"It's critical that the athletes are vaccinated against Covid 19. We are now waiting for the current lockdown to end so that the athletes can race in competitive team events," National Olympic Committee of Kenya general secretary Francis Mutuku told AFP.

Kenya, a world athletics superpower, hopes to take a team of 100 athletes to the rescheduled Tokyo games which will be held between July 23 and August 8.

Kenya finished 15th and as the top African nation at the 2016 Olympics in Rio, with a total of 13 medals: six gold, six silver and one bronze.

Mutuku said all the Olympic hopefuls will be required to take part in the vaccination process which is targetting a total of 3,500 athletes, coaches, officials and handlers across the country ahead of the Olympics and Paralympics and the Safari rally, which acts as the sixth round of the World Rally championships scheduled for June 24-27.

Kenya on Thursday started vaccinating its Olympic athletes against Covid-19, paving the way to compete in the Tokyo Games. All the 75 athletes in the Olympic team bubble at Nairobi's Kasarani stadium were vaccinated on Thursday, in an exercise which will also cover the Paralympic teams, rugby sevens and the officials working with Kenya Safari Rally preparations.

Kenya on Thursday started vaccinating its Olympic athletes against Covid-19, paving the way to compete in the Tokyo Games. All the 75 athletes in the Olympic team bubble at Nairobi's Kasarani stadium were vaccinated on Thursday, in an exercise which will also cover the Paralympic teams, rugby sevens and the officials working with Kenya Safari Rally preparations. "It's critical that the athletes are vaccinated against Covid 19. We are now waiting for the current lockdown to end so that the athletes can race in competitive team events," National Olympic Committee of Kenya general secretary Francis Mutuku told AFP. Kenya, a world athletics superpower, hopes to take a team of 100 athletes to the rescheduled Tokyo games which will be held between July 23 and August 8. Kenya finished 15th and as the top African nation at the 2016 Olympics in Rio, with a total of 13 medals: six gold, six silver and one bronze. Mutuku said all the Olympic hopefuls will be required to take part in the vaccination process which is targetting a total of 3,500 athletes, coaches, officials and handlers across the country ahead of the Olympics and Paralympics and the Safari rally, which acts as the sixth round of the World Rally championships scheduled for June 24-27.

Kenya starts vaccinating Olympic athletes

English Championship side Swansea City announced on Thursday they were boycotting social media for a week in protest against online abuse and discrimination, with Birmingham and Rangers taking similar steps.

Three Swansea players -- Yan Dhanda, Ben Cabango and Jamal Lowe -- have all been racially abused online recently.

Liverpool trio Trent Alexander-Arnold, Naby Keita and Sadio Mane became the latest in a long list of players to be targeted after Tuesday's Champions League quarter-final first-leg loss to Real Madrid.

Swansea have written to Facebook and Twitter calling for tougher punishments for those found guilty of posting "cowardly" abuse.

"From 5:00 pm (1600 GMT) today all first-team players, those in the academy professional phase, Swansea City Ladies, Community Trust, senior club staff and official club channels (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, Snapchat, YouTube and TikTok) will not post any content for a period of seven days," the club said in a statement.

"As a close and diverse group of players, this is something we all feel extremely passionate about," said Swansea captain Matt Grimes.

"Three of our squad have been racially abused in recent weeks and, as a squad and club, we wanted to take this stance as we again call on those at the forefront of social media companies to implement the change that is needed now and in the future."

Fellow Championship side Birmingham and Scottish Premiership team Rangers later announced they were also launching week-long boycotts.

"The club stands in solidarity with Swansea City Football Club who first announced their intention to operate a social media blackout earlier today, with this fight going beyond sporting rivalries and one that must be tackled in unison," said a statement on Birmingham's website.

Rangers said they were concerned with the "daily racist abuse our players have to endure", adding there was concern that levels of hate were spiralling out of control.

English Championship side Swansea City announced on Thursday they were boycotting social media for a week in protest against online abuse and discrimination, with Birmingham and Rangers taking similar steps.

English Championship side Swansea City announced on Thursday they were boycotting social media for a week in protest against online abuse and discrimination, with Birmingham and Rangers taking similar steps. Three Swansea players -- Yan Dhanda, Ben Cabango and Jamal Lowe -- have all been racially abused online recently. Liverpool trio Trent Alexander-Arnold, Naby Keita and Sadio Mane became the latest in a long list of players to be targeted after Tuesday's Champions League quarter-final first-leg loss to Real Madrid. Swansea have written to Facebook and Twitter calling for tougher punishments for those found guilty of posting "cowardly" abuse. "From 5:00 pm (1600 GMT) today all first-team players, those in the academy professional phase, Swansea City Ladies, Community Trust, senior club staff and official club channels (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, Snapchat, YouTube and TikTok) will not post any content for a period of seven days," the club said in a statement. "As a close and diverse group of players, this is something we all feel extremely passionate about," said Swansea captain Matt Grimes. "Three of our squad have been racially abused in recent weeks and, as a squad and club, we wanted to take this stance as we again call on those at the forefront of social media companies to implement the change that is needed now and in the future." Fellow Championship side Birmingham and Scottish Premiership team Rangers later announced they were also launching week-long boycotts. "The club stands in solidarity with Swansea City Football Club who first announced their intention to operate a social media blackout earlier today, with this fight going beyond sporting rivalries and one that must be tackled in unison," said a statement on Birmingham's website. Rangers said they were concerned with the "daily racist abuse our players have to endure", adding there was concern that levels of hate were spiralling out of control.

Rangers join Swansea social media boycott to tackle online abuse

Slavia Prague stole an away goal deep into stoppage time against wasteful Arsenal to earn a 1-1 draw and gain the upper hand in their Europa League quarter-final tie on Thursday.

Substitute Nicolas Pepe had broken the deadlock for Arsenal in the 86th minute after a night of glaring misses for the home side in the first leg of the tie.

But Tomas Holes headed in a last-gasp equaliser to demoralise Mikel Arteta's men and leave the contest finely poised ahead of next week's return leg in Prague.

"The game is under control, we had got the goal we wanted, but we put ourselves on the back foot," a frustrated Arteta told BT Sport.

"We conceded a corner, they put bodies in the box and anything can happen. Of course it changes the feeling after the game."

He said his late substitutions changed the contest but his side did not capitalise.

"They are a good opponent and really difficult to play against," he added. "Now we need to go there and win the game. We've done it in the past and we're sure we can do it again."

Arsenal are realistically out of the running to finish in the top four of the Premier League, meaning they must win the second-tier European League to reach next season's Champions League.

They came into the match at the Emirates after a chastening 3-0 defeat against Liverpool last weekend left them stuck in mid-table in the English top-flight.

Bukayo Saka and Emile Smith Rowe were passed fit to start but captain Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang was dropped to the bench.

Saka, who missed the Liverpool defeat, was a regular threat down the Arsenal right but his delivery into the box was poor.

The England international missed a golden chance to break the deadlock when he steered wide with only goalkeeper Ondrej Kolar to beat and Rob Holding forced a fine save with a header.

The visitors' only real chance of the opening period came when Lukas Provod fired just over following a Slavia raid down the right.

Arsenal came agonisingly close to taking the lead early in the second half when Willian -- still seeking his first goal for the club -- struck the outside of the post from a free-kick.

<h2>- Lacazette miss -</h2>

Just after the hour mark Arsenal should have been ahead when forward Alexandre Lacazette stole the ball from the last defender near the half-way line and charged forward with only the goalkeeper to beat.

The France international opened up his body and looked certain to score but overhit his shot and it came back off the crossbar.

Arteta shook his team up with a number of substitutions, throwing on Aubameyang, Pepe and Mohamed Elneny together in the 78th minute and it almost reaped immediate dividends but Aubameyang steered wide.

Suddenly Arsenal were playing with more the tempo and substitute Gabriel Martinelli forced a fine save from Kolar.

The home side finally got the breakthrough they deserved when Aubameyang fed the ball to club-record signing Pepe, who raced into the box and dinked the ball over the goalkeeper.

Arsenal looked set to travel to the away leg with the advantage but the Czechs, who had seen off Leicester and Rangers in previous rounds, poured forward and Leno turned a Provod shot onto the post and behind.

The resulting corner made its way through to Holes, who stooped to head home at the back post in the 93rd minute.

Slavia Prague stole an away goal deep into stoppage time against wasteful Arsenal to earn a 1-1 draw and gain the upper hand in their Europa League quarter-final tie on Thursday.

Slavia Prague stole an away goal deep into stoppage time against wasteful Arsenal to earn a 1-1 draw and gain the upper hand in their Europa League quarter-final tie on Thursday. Substitute Nicolas Pepe had broken the deadlock for Arsenal in the 86th minute after a night of glaring misses for the home side in the first leg of the tie. But Tomas Holes headed in a last-gasp equaliser to demoralise Mikel Arteta's men and leave the contest finely poised ahead of next week's return leg in Prague. "The game is under control, we had got the goal we wanted, but we put ourselves on the back foot," a frustrated Arteta told BT Sport. "We conceded a corner, they put bodies in the box and anything can happen. Of course it changes the feeling after the game." He said his late substitutions changed the contest but his side did not capitalise. "They are a good opponent and really difficult to play against," he added. "Now we need to go there and win the game. We've done it in the past and we're sure we can do it again." Arsenal are realistically out of the running to finish in the top four of the Premier League, meaning they must win the second-tier European League to reach next season's Champions League. They came into the match at the Emirates after a chastening 3-0 defeat against Liverpool last weekend left them stuck in mid-table in the English top-flight. Bukayo Saka and Emile Smith Rowe were passed fit to start but captain Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang was dropped to the bench. Saka, who missed the Liverpool defeat, was a regular threat down the Arsenal right but his delivery into the box was poor. The England international missed a golden chance to break the deadlock when he steered wide with only goalkeeper Ondrej Kolar to beat and Rob Holding forced a fine save with a header. The visitors' only real chance of the opening period came when Lukas Provod fired just over following a Slavia raid down the right. Arsenal came agonisingly close to taking the lead early in the second half when Willian -- still seeking his first goal for the club -- struck the outside of the post from a free-kick. - Lacazette miss - Just after the hour mark Arsenal should have been ahead when forward Alexandre Lacazette stole the ball from the last defender near the half-way line and charged forward with only the goalkeeper to beat. The France international opened up his body and looked certain to score but overhit his shot and it came back off the crossbar. Arteta shook his team up with a number of substitutions, throwing on Aubameyang, Pepe and Mohamed Elneny together in the 78th minute and it almost reaped immediate dividends but Aubameyang steered wide. Suddenly Arsenal were playing with more the tempo and substitute Gabriel Martinelli forced a fine save from Kolar. The home side finally got the breakthrough they deserved when Aubameyang fed the ball to club-record signing Pepe, who raced into the box and dinked the ball over the goalkeeper. Arsenal looked set to travel to the away leg with the advantage but the Czechs, who had seen off Leicester and Rangers in previous rounds, poured forward and Leno turned a Provod shot onto the post and behind. The resulting corner made its way through to Holes, who stooped to head home at the back post in the 93rd minute.

Last-gasp Slavia leave Arsenal's Europa League hopes in balance

Marcus Rashford's brilliant finish and a Bruno Fernandes penalty handed Manchester United a 2-0 victory over Granada on Thursday, putting them firmly in charge of their Europa League quarter-final.

Rashford latched onto a long ball from Victor Lindelof in the first half, the striker injecting the one bit of quality into a frantic contest at Los Carmenes before Fernandes made it two in the 90th minute.

The result gives United a commanding lead heading into the second leg next week at Old Trafford, where they should finish the job and book their place in the semi-final to face either Ajax or Roma, the Italians leading 2-1 after the first leg.&nbsp;

"It's a clean sheet and David (de Gea) wasn't really troubled," said Ole Gunnar Solskjaer. "There were moments that could have been chances but I thought we defended well when we had to and I think 2-0 is a good lead."

Rashford has now scored eight of United's 23 goals in Europe this season.

"It was a very good run and he takes the ball fantastically," said Solskjaer.

Granada celebrated their 90-year anniversary on Tuesday and arguably have never played a bigger fixture, a club that has never won a major trophy against one that has claimed 20 Premier League titles and three European Cups.&nbsp;

This is something of a fairytale for the Spanish club that finished 10th in the second division only three years ago before Diego Martinez, arguably La Liga's brightest up and coming coach, engineered promotion and then qualification for Europe.&nbsp;

Six players in their starting line-up played for them in the second tier and with Los Carmenes empty, Granada even sent all their season ticket holders a personalised ticket as a souvenir to mark the occasion.&nbsp;

But it will take a momentous comeback next week for them to turn this tie around. "I think the result is a harsh punishment for what happened in the game," said Martinez. "The last goal hurts, it hurts a lot."

<h2>- De Gea back in goal -</h2>

For United, the Europa League remains Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's only realistic hope of a trophy and with a place in the top four all-but guaranteed, he can afford to give it his full attention.&nbsp;

Solskjaer fielded a strong line-up, with Rashford handed a start despite coming off against Brighton on Sunday with a knock. David de Gea was picked in goal for the first time since February.&nbsp;

Granada had Roberto Soldado up front, the 35-year-old striker who endured two disappointing seasons with Tottenham in the Premier League but tasted victory against United in his last appearance for them in 2014, when he came off for a young Harry Kane.&nbsp;

United had to survive a frantic opening period when neither side really settled but Rashford dropped the first bit of real precision into the match just after half an hour.&nbsp;

Lindelof spotted his run in behind but Rashford still had a lot to do, his outstretched foot cushioning the ball perfectly into his path and giving him a simple finish past Rui Silva.&nbsp;

Granada responded, a mishit cross from Yangel Herrera, on loan from Manchester City, hitting the post before Kenedy tested De Gea with a well-struck volley.&nbsp;

But United absorbed the pressure and should have scored a second when Daniel James burst through down the left and slipped in Fernandes, but he was unable to find the finish from the angle.&nbsp;

Fernandes, though, won the penalty, fouled by Yan Eteki before getting up to take it, a scuffed shot squirming into the bottom corner to put United in sight of the semis.

Marcus Rashford's brilliant finish and a Bruno Fernandes penalty handed Manchester United a 2-0 victory over Granada on Thursday, putting them firmly in charge of their Europa League quarter-final.

Marcus Rashford's brilliant finish and a Bruno Fernandes penalty handed Manchester United a 2-0 victory over Granada on Thursday, putting them firmly in charge of their Europa League quarter-final. Rashford latched onto a long ball from Victor Lindelof in the first half, the striker injecting the one bit of quality into a frantic contest at Los Carmenes before Fernandes made it two in the 90th minute. The result gives United a commanding lead heading into the second leg next week at Old Trafford, where they should finish the job and book their place in the semi-final to face either Ajax or Roma, the Italians leading 2-1 after the first leg. "It's a clean sheet and David (de Gea) wasn't really troubled," said Ole Gunnar Solskjaer. "There were moments that could have been chances but I thought we defended well when we had to and I think 2-0 is a good lead." Rashford has now scored eight of United's 23 goals in Europe this season. "It was a very good run and he takes the ball fantastically," said Solskjaer. Granada celebrated their 90-year anniversary on Tuesday and arguably have never played a bigger fixture, a club that has never won a major trophy against one that has claimed 20 Premier League titles and three European Cups. This is something of a fairytale for the Spanish club that finished 10th in the second division only three years ago before Diego Martinez, arguably La Liga's brightest up and coming coach, engineered promotion and then qualification for Europe. Six players in their starting line-up played for them in the second tier and with Los Carmenes empty, Granada even sent all their season ticket holders a personalised ticket as a souvenir to mark the occasion. But it will take a momentous comeback next week for them to turn this tie around. "I think the result is a harsh punishment for what happened in the game," said Martinez. "The last goal hurts, it hurts a lot." - De Gea back in goal - For United, the Europa League remains Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's only realistic hope of a trophy and with a place in the top four all-but guaranteed, he can afford to give it his full attention. Solskjaer fielded a strong line-up, with Rashford handed a start despite coming off against Brighton on Sunday with a knock. David de Gea was picked in goal for the first time since February. Granada had Roberto Soldado up front, the 35-year-old striker who endured two disappointing seasons with Tottenham in the Premier League but tasted victory against United in his last appearance for them in 2014, when he came off for a young Harry Kane. United had to survive a frantic opening period when neither side really settled but Rashford dropped the first bit of real precision into the match just after half an hour. Lindelof spotted his run in behind but Rashford still had a lot to do, his outstretched foot cushioning the ball perfectly into his path and giving him a simple finish past Rui Silva. Granada responded, a mishit cross from Yangel Herrera, on loan from Manchester City, hitting the post before Kenedy tested De Gea with a well-struck volley. But United absorbed the pressure and should have scored a second when Daniel James burst through down the left and slipped in Fernandes, but he was unable to find the finish from the angle. Fernandes, though, won the penalty, fouled by Yan Eteki before getting up to take it, a scuffed shot squirming into the bottom corner to put United in sight of the semis.

Rashford and Fernandes ensure United brush off Granada

Liverpool return to Premier League action on Saturday knowing they must rediscover the magic at home or risk finishing outside the top four for the first time since 2016.

At the bottom, Fulham have a chance to lift themselves out of the relegation zone while Manchester United will seek revenge at Tottenham after their 6-1 humiliation earlier this season.

AFP Sport looks at some of the main talking points ahead of the weekend action in the English top-flight.

<h2>Can Liverpool stop Anfield rot?</h2>

When Liverpool beat Tottenham 2-1 at Anfield in mid-December it appeared to be business as usual for Jurgen Klopp's side.

But little did they know that they would reach April with no further wins on their home turf and a paltry two goals to show for their efforts.

The Premier League champions take on mid-table Aston Villa on Saturday with a chance to clamber back into the top four, at least temporarily.

Liverpool suffered a chastening 3-1 defeat at Real Madrid in the first leg of their Champions League quarter-final in midweek but results in the Premier League last weekend went in their favour.

Klopp described their 3-0 win at sorry Arsenal as a "very important statement" but his side must rediscover the winning formula at home after six successive defeats in the league.

<h2>Lingard leads charge for hungry West Ham</h2>

Jesse Lingard is a revitalised player since joining West Ham on loan from Manchester United, where he had become a forgotten man.

The England midfielder flourished in the early days of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's reign at Old Trafford but became an increasingly peripheral figure as Bruno Fernandes assumed the main creative role.

But the 28-year-old has made up for lost time since arriving at the London Stadium in January, scoring six goals in eight Premier League matches.

He has also won back his place in Gareth Southgate's England squad.

West Ham, who host Leicester on Sunday, are fourth in the Premier League table, one point clear of Chelsea with eight games remaining.

Lingard, who scored a spectacular goal and played a part in the other two in Monday's 3-2 win against Wolves, has urged his team-mates to stay level-headed.

"We need to maintain our focus in each game," he said. "We've got a tough run of fixtures but the lads are ready and we'll prepare for the next game."

<h2>Newcastle fight to stay clear of drop zone</h2>

Newcastle, who have been flirting with the relegation places, could find themselves in the bottom three by the time they kick off on Sunday if Fulham beat Wolves.

Steve Bruce's side have won just two of their past 21 games in all competitions but the manager has dismissed suggestions of a split in the camp.

"That is the big thing that frustrates us all, a so-called mole in the dressing room, certain players unhappy, blah, blah, blah, the spirit is not good, this nonsense," he said.

The Magpies can take some confidence ahead of the game against Burnley from last weekend's 2-2 draw with Tottenham.

Fulham themselves have not taken advantage of Newcastle's struggles but would climb above them on goal difference if they beat Wolves on Friday.

Manager Scott Parker said his team would "fight and scrap" to stay in the division.

Bottom-placed Sheffield United appear doomed but there is a flicker of hope at 19th-placed West Brom, who hammered 10-man Chelsea 5-2 last week.

<h2>Fixtures (GMT)</h2>

Friday

Fulham v Wolves (1900)

Saturday

Manchester City v Leeds (1130), Liverpool v Aston Villa (1400), Crystal Palace v Chelsea (1630)

Sunday

Burnley v Newcastle (1100), West Ham v Leicester (1305), Tottenham v Manchester United (1530), Sheffield United v Arsenal (1800)

Monday

West Brom v Southampton (1700), Brighton v Everton (1915)

Liverpool return to Premier League action on Saturday knowing they must rediscover the magic at home or risk finishing outside the top four for the first time since 2016.

Liverpool return to Premier League action on Saturday knowing they must rediscover the magic at home or risk finishing outside the top four for the first time since 2016. At the bottom, Fulham have a chance to lift themselves out of the relegation zone while Manchester United will seek revenge at Tottenham after their 6-1 humiliation earlier this season. AFP Sport looks at some of the main talking points ahead of the weekend action in the English top-flight. Can Liverpool stop Anfield rot? When Liverpool beat Tottenham 2-1 at Anfield in mid-December it appeared to be business as usual for Jurgen Klopp's side. But little did they know that they would reach April with no further wins on their home turf and a paltry two goals to show for their efforts. The Premier League champions take on mid-table Aston Villa on Saturday with a chance to clamber back into the top four, at least temporarily. Liverpool suffered a chastening 3-1 defeat at Real Madrid in the first leg of their Champions League quarter-final in midweek but results in the Premier League last weekend went in their favour. Klopp described their 3-0 win at sorry Arsenal as a "very important statement" but his side must rediscover the winning formula at home after six successive defeats in the league. Lingard leads charge for hungry West Ham Jesse Lingard is a revitalised player since joining West Ham on loan from Manchester United, where he had become a forgotten man. The England midfielder flourished in the early days of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's reign at Old Trafford but became an increasingly peripheral figure as Bruno Fernandes assumed the main creative role. But the 28-year-old has made up for lost time since arriving at the London Stadium in January, scoring six goals in eight Premier League matches. He has also won back his place in Gareth Southgate's England squad. West Ham, who host Leicester on Sunday, are fourth in the Premier League table, one point clear of Chelsea with eight games remaining. Lingard, who scored a spectacular goal and played a part in the other two in Monday's 3-2 win against Wolves, has urged his team-mates to stay level-headed. "We need to maintain our focus in each game," he said. "We've got a tough run of fixtures but the lads are ready and we'll prepare for the next game." Newcastle fight to stay clear of drop zone Newcastle, who have been flirting with the relegation places, could find themselves in the bottom three by the time they kick off on Sunday if Fulham beat Wolves. Steve Bruce's side have won just two of their past 21 games in all competitions but the manager has dismissed suggestions of a split in the camp. "That is the big thing that frustrates us all, a so-called mole in the dressing room, certain players unhappy, blah, blah, blah, the spirit is not good, this nonsense," he said. The Magpies can take some confidence ahead of the game against Burnley from last weekend's 2-2 draw with Tottenham. Fulham themselves have not taken advantage of Newcastle's struggles but would climb above them on goal difference if they beat Wolves on Friday. Manager Scott Parker said his team would "fight and scrap" to stay in the division. Bottom-placed Sheffield United appear doomed but there is a flicker of hope at 19th-placed West Brom, who hammered 10-man Chelsea 5-2 last week. Fixtures (GMT) Friday Fulham v Wolves (1900) Saturday Manchester City v Leeds (1130), Liverpool v Aston Villa (1400), Crystal Palace v Chelsea (1630) Sunday Burnley v Newcastle (1100), West Ham v Leicester (1305), Tottenham v Manchester United (1530), Sheffield United v Arsenal (1800) Monday West Brom v Southampton (1700), Brighton v Everton (1915)

Liverpool bid to end home pain as Lingard fires West Ham push

British sports chiefs say they would accept the introduction of coronavirus "vaccine passports" as a means of allowing full capacities at stadiums.

In a letter to lawmakers, a number of bodies including the Football Association, Premier League, Rugby Football Union and England and Wales Cricket Board said current social distancing rules would be "insufficient to end sport's Covid financial crisis".

Test events are being launched over the coming weeks as part of the government's roadmap out of lockdown, with an FA Cup semi-final and the FA Cup final among pilot events for a "Covid status certification" scheme.

The system would show whether people had been vaccinated, had antibodies for Covid-19 or had tested negative.

Vaccine and testing passports are opposed by a group of MPs but Prime Minister Boris Johnson and opposition leader Keir Starmer are among several politicians to be told by sporting organisations that they are a "credible option" to achieve full venues.

"All of our sports can see the benefit that a Covid certification process offers in getting more fans safely back to their sport as quickly as possible," the joint letter says. "We know that our stadia can only be fully filled with an assurance process.

"This process must ensure that everyone can access stadia and must include arrangements that would verify a negative Covid test or an antibody test or vaccination certification.

"The final approach must not be discriminatory, should protect privacy, and have clear exit criteria."

Under current plans, from May 17 stadiums in England will be allowed to open with a 25-percent capacity limit, up to a maximum of 10,000 spectators.&nbsp;

The current plan is for all restrictions on social contact to be lifted on June 21.

Britain has administered around 32 million first vaccine doses -- around 60 percent of the adult population -- in one of the world's most successful inoculation drives.

But even with the swift rollout, full venues at major sports events are understood to be unlikely until late in the English sporting summer at the earliest.

Premier League executive director Bill Bush told the BBC on Friday that a certification system was necessary in the absence of unrestricted access to stadiums.

"The alternative (to certification) is not freedom," he said. "The alternative is social-distancing, tiny crowds, major restrictions on people's movement and ability to eat, drink, travel. Away fans banned, for example.

"So to end those restrictions of freedom, we believe that something like this is an acceptable burden to give fans the freedom to attend."

A government spokesman, responding to the letter, said: "We welcome the constructive approach from major British sports as we explore how testing Covid certification and other steps can help get more fans back into stadiums and other large events safely.

"We want as many fans as possible to be able to enjoy a great British summer of sport, safely."

British sports chiefs say they would accept the introduction of coronavirus "vaccine passports" as a means of allowing full capacities at stadiums. In a letter to lawmakers, a number of bodies including the Football Association, Premier League, Rugby Football Union and England and Wales Cricket Board said current social distancing rules would be "insufficient to end sport's Covid financial crisis".

British sports chiefs say they would accept the introduction of coronavirus "vaccine passports" as a means of allowing full capacities at stadiums. In a letter to lawmakers, a number of bodies including the Football Association, Premier League, Rugby Football Union and England and Wales Cricket Board said current social distancing rules would be "insufficient to end sport's Covid financial crisis". Test events are being launched over the coming weeks as part of the government's roadmap out of lockdown, with an FA Cup semi-final and the FA Cup final among pilot events for a "Covid status certification" scheme. The system would show whether people had been vaccinated, had antibodies for Covid-19 or had tested negative. Vaccine and testing passports are opposed by a group of MPs but Prime Minister Boris Johnson and opposition leader Keir Starmer are among several politicians to be told by sporting organisations that they are a "credible option" to achieve full venues. "All of our sports can see the benefit that a Covid certification process offers in getting more fans safely back to their sport as quickly as possible," the joint letter says. "We know that our stadia can only be fully filled with an assurance process. "This process must ensure that everyone can access stadia and must include arrangements that would verify a negative Covid test or an antibody test or vaccination certification. "The final approach must not be discriminatory, should protect privacy, and have clear exit criteria." Under current plans, from May 17 stadiums in England will be allowed to open with a 25-percent capacity limit, up to a maximum of 10,000 spectators. The current plan is for all restrictions on social contact to be lifted on June 21. Britain has administered around 32 million first vaccine doses -- around 60 percent of the adult population -- in one of the world's most successful inoculation drives. But even with the swift rollout, full venues at major sports events are understood to be unlikely until late in the English sporting summer at the earliest. Premier League executive director Bill Bush told the BBC on Friday that a certification system was necessary in the absence of unrestricted access to stadiums. "The alternative (to certification) is not freedom," he said. "The alternative is social-distancing, tiny crowds, major restrictions on people's movement and ability to eat, drink, travel. Away fans banned, for example. "So to end those restrictions of freedom, we believe that something like this is an acceptable burden to give fans the freedom to attend." A government spokesman, responding to the letter, said: "We welcome the constructive approach from major British sports as we explore how testing Covid certification and other steps can help get more fans back into stadiums and other large events safely. "We want as many fans as possible to be able to enjoy a great British summer of sport, safely."

British sports chiefs back use of 'vaccine passports' to fill stadiums

Neither Real Madrid nor Barcelona made any signings in the January transfer market so we’re unlikely to see any new faces when they face each other in ElClasico on Saturday. Yet, there will be a new, and at the same time very familiar face in the stands: Joan Laporta, Barca’s recently elected president who previously held the post between 2003 and 2010.

Laporta is therefore no stranger to the spectacle of ElClasico. The Barcelona-born lawyer enjoyed many memorable ElClasico victories during his first spell, including a famous 6-2 win for the&nbsp;Blaugrana&nbsp;at the Santiago Bernabeu in Pep Guardiola’s first season in charge back in 2009. Barca’s ElClasico record during Laporta’s first tenure as president was positive: seven wins, two draws and just five defeats in 14 LaLiga encounters.

Other unforgettable ElClasico moments for Laporta’s Barcelona included a last-gasp winner from Xavi Hernandez at the Bernabeu in 2004; Ronaldinho dismantling&nbsp;Los Blancos&nbsp;almost single-handedly in 2005 (a match which also happened to be the ElClasico debut of a certain Lionel Messi); 19-year-old Messi’s hat-trick in the dramatic 3-3 draw at the Camp Nou in 2007, and the 2009/10 home and away double win thanks to goal from Messi, Pedro and Zlatan Ibrahimovic.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/laliga-special-the-great-assist-providers-of-el-clasico-376290" hreflang="en">LaLiga Special: The great assist providers of El Clasico</a>

His return to the ElClasico stage also means that Laporta will cross paths with Florentino Pérez once again, the Real Madrid president since 2009 and who previously held the role between 2000 and 2006. Images of the two presidents sitting side by side during some of the most intense ElClasico matches of the 2000s are fresh in the memory for most fans of these two clubs, even if more than a decade has now passed since Laporta stepped aside in 2010. Laporta and Pérez have always maintained a respectful relationship and a serious rivalry, and went head-to-head in seven ElClasico fixtures: Laporta’s Barcelona won five, while Perez’s Real Madrid came out on top just twice.

Having only taken over the Barcelona presidency in March, Laporta is yet to mould the squad to his liking and he’ll surely look to compete with Pérez and Real Madrid for the biggest names in this summer’s transfer market. Yet he’ll already be as determined as ever to win another ElClasico and to enjoy the bragging rights in club football’s biggest rivalry.

WATCH:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/laliga-will-go-down-to-the-wire-real-madrids-karim-benzema-ahead-of-el-clasico-376303" hreflang="en">LaLiga will go down to the wire: Real Madrid's Karim Benzema ahead of El Clasico</a>

Laporta has always enjoyed injecting a bit of humour into the rivalry too. He went as far as launching his most recent presidential election campaign by installing a huge advertisement just yards from the Santiago Bernabeu in central Madrid.&nbsp;“Ganas de volver a verso,” it read in Spanish… ‘Keen to see you again.’

This Saturday night, Laporta will finally get his wish and come face to face with Real Madrid once again as Barcelona president, albeit in new surroundings at the Alfredo Di Stefano stadium. The first of what looks to be many reunions with Barca’s biggest rivals.

WATCH:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/lionel-messi-is-unbelievable-barcelonas-pedri-ahead-of-el-clasico-376304" hreflang="en">Lionel Messi is unbelievable: Barcelona's Pedri ahead of El Clasico</a>

Watch ElClasico live this Sunday at 00.30 am on Facebook Watch

Neither Real Madrid nor Barcelona made any signings in the January transfer market so we’re unlikely to see any new faces when they face each other in ElClasico on Saturday.

Neither Real Madrid nor Barcelona made any signings in the January transfer market so we’re unlikely to see any new faces when they face each other in ElClasico on Saturday. Yet, there will be a new, and at the same time very familiar face in the stands: Joan Laporta, Barca’s recently elected president who previously held the post between 2003 and 2010. Laporta is therefore no stranger to the spectacle of ElClasico. The Barcelona-born lawyer enjoyed many memorable ElClasico victories during his first spell, including a famous 6-2 win for the Blaugrana at the Santiago Bernabeu in Pep Guardiola’s first season in charge back in 2009. Barca’s ElClasico record during Laporta’s first tenure as president was positive: seven wins, two draws and just five defeats in 14 LaLiga encounters. Other unforgettable ElClasico moments for Laporta’s Barcelona included a last-gasp winner from Xavi Hernandez at the Bernabeu in 2004; Ronaldinho dismantling Los Blancos almost single-handedly in 2005 (a match which also happened to be the ElClasico debut of a certain Lionel Messi); 19-year-old Messi’s hat-trick in the dramatic 3-3 draw at the Camp Nou in 2007, and the 2009/10 home and away double win thanks to goal from Messi, Pedro and Zlatan Ibrahimovic. ALSO READ: LaLiga Special: The great assist providers of El Clasico His return to the ElClasico stage also means that Laporta will cross paths with Florentino Pérez once again, the Real Madrid president since 2009 and who previously held the role between 2000 and 2006. Images of the two presidents sitting side by side during some of the most intense ElClasico matches of the 2000s are fresh in the memory for most fans of these two clubs, even if more than a decade has now passed since Laporta stepped aside in 2010. Laporta and Pérez have always maintained a respectful relationship and a serious rivalry, and went head-to-head in seven ElClasico fixtures: Laporta’s Barcelona won five, while Perez’s Real Madrid came out on top just twice. Having only taken over the Barcelona presidency in March, Laporta is yet to mould the squad to his liking and he’ll surely look to compete with Pérez and Real Madrid for the biggest names in this summer’s transfer market. Yet he’ll already be as determined as ever to win another ElClasico and to enjoy the bragging rights in club football’s biggest rivalry. WATCH: LaLiga will go down to the wire: Real Madrid's Karim Benzema ahead of El Clasico Laporta has always enjoyed injecting a bit of humour into the rivalry too. He went as far as launching his most recent presidential election campaign by installing a huge advertisement just yards from the Santiago Bernabeu in central Madrid. “Ganas de volver a verso,” it read in Spanish… ‘Keen to see you again.’ This Saturday night, Laporta will finally get his wish and come face to face with Real Madrid once again as Barcelona president, albeit in new surroundings at the Alfredo Di Stefano stadium. The first of what looks to be many reunions with Barca’s biggest rivals. WATCH: Lionel Messi is unbelievable: Barcelona's Pedri ahead of El Clasico Watch ElClasico live this Sunday at 00.30 am on Facebook Watch

El Clasico - Back for more: Joan Laporta comes face to face with Real Madrid once again

The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 is set to kick-start on Friday. While the matches will be played behind closed doors amid a massive surge in COVID-19 cases in India, the question that has been bugging the fans is whether there will be an opening ceremony ahead of IPL 2021?<o:p></o:p>

IPL opening ceremony has been a regularity before the tournament officially kickstarts. However, in IPL 2020, there was no opening ceremony due to the coronavirus pandemic. <o:p></o:p>

With IPL 2021 being held in challenging times and with strict restrictions, there will be no opening ceremony this time as well with the tournament starting directly with the season opener between Mumbai Indians and Royal Challengers Bangalore directly.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-what-is-new-what-has-changed-who-is-in-who-is-out-ten-things-different-this-time-376268" hreflang="en">IPL 2021: What is new, what has changed, who is in, who is out? Ten things different this time</a>

However, top BCCI officials such as Sourav Ganguly, Jay Shah among others and members of Differently Abled Cricket Council of India (DCCI) will be attending the opener between MI and RCB in Chennai on Friday.<o:p></o:p>

“This year’s IPL Opening ceremony for the first time shall have representation from the Differently abled governing council members. Jay Shah, the Secretary of the BCCI, has extended an invitation to the office bearers of the Differently Abled Cricket Council of India (DCCI),” twitted the association’s official Twitter handle.<o:p></o:p>

Even media will not be allowed to cover IPL 2021 from the venues due to the COVID-19 pandemic. But the restrictions may be lifted if the situation around the virus eases down.

IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-ms-dhoni-to-imran-tahir-five-oldest-players-in-ipl-2021-375933" hreflang="en">From MS Dhoni to Imran Tahir: Five oldest players in IPL 2021</a>

“Owing to the health and safety concerns, media personnel will not have access to the stadium to cover the games or team practice sessions,” the BCCI said in a release.<o:p></o:p>

“If health and safety conditions are more favourable later in the season, media may be allowed to access the stadiums to cover the tournament. Such an announcement will be made in due course,” the BCCI statement read.

LIVE:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/IPL2021-Live-Score-Mumbai-Indians-MI-Royal-Challengers-Bangalore-RCB-Chidambaram-Stadium-Chennai-Today-Live-match-updates" hreflang="en">IPL 2021, MI vs RCB, Live Updates</a>

<o:p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/ipl">Catch full coverage of IPL 2021 here!</a></o:p>

The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 is set to kick-start on Friday. While the matches will be played behind closed doors amid a massive surge in COVID-19 cases in India, the question that has been bugging the fans is whether there will be an opening ceremony ahead of IPL 2021?

The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 is set to kick-start on Friday. While the matches will be played behind closed doors amid a massive surge in COVID-19 cases in India, the question that has been bugging the fans is whether there will be an opening ceremony ahead of IPL 2021? IPL opening ceremony has been a regularity before the tournament officially kickstarts. However, in IPL 2020, there was no opening ceremony due to the coronavirus pandemic. With IPL 2021 being held in challenging times and with strict restrictions, there will be no opening ceremony this time as well with the tournament starting directly with the season opener between Mumbai Indians and Royal Challengers Bangalore directly. ALSO READ: IPL 2021: What is new, what has changed, who is in, who is out? Ten things different this time However, top BCCI officials such as Sourav Ganguly, Jay Shah among others and members of Differently Abled Cricket Council of India (DCCI) will be attending the opener between MI and RCB in Chennai on Friday. “This year’s IPL Opening ceremony for the first time shall have representation from the Differently abled governing council members. Jay Shah, the Secretary of the BCCI, has extended an invitation to the office bearers of the Differently Abled Cricket Council of India (DCCI),” twitted the association’s official Twitter handle. Even media will not be allowed to cover IPL 2021 from the venues due to the COVID-19 pandemic. But the restrictions may be lifted if the situation around the virus eases down. IN PICS | From MS Dhoni to Imran Tahir: Five oldest players in IPL 2021 “Owing to the health and safety concerns, media personnel will not have access to the stadium to cover the games or team practice sessions,” the BCCI said in a release. “If health and safety conditions are more favourable later in the season, media may be allowed to access the stadiums to cover the tournament. Such an announcement will be made in due course,” the BCCI statement read. LIVE: IPL 2021, MI vs RCB, Live Updates Catch full coverage of IPL 2021 here!

IPL 2021: Will there be opening ceremony ahead of tournament opener? - All you need to know

After finishing as the runner-up of the previous edition of the Indian Premier League, the Delhi Capitals will start their 14th&nbsp;edition of the IPL in Mumbai on Saturday,&nbsp;against Chennai Super Kings at the&nbsp;Wankhede Stadium.&nbsp;Delhi Capitals will look to go one up and lift the trophy for the first time. DC's new skipper Rishabh Pant is looking forward to defeating his mentor and former Indian captain MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings in what will be his captaincy debut in the cash-rich T20 tournament.

Speaking ahead of their opening match, Head Coach Ricky Ponting and Captain&nbsp;Rishabh Pant expect to achieve a better result this season.

"The CSK have got a good squad of players and they've got lots of flexibility and a lot of options. But we've got a great squad as well and we want to build on last season. I have said to the boys that it's not about last season, but there are a lot of positives that we can take from the way we have played in the last couple of seasons. Although we've got a slightly different squad, we expect to play better as a group and achieve some better results. So, for us, Chennai Super Kings is just game one. We need to approach it with the right attitude and play well. Hopefully, win that game and move onto the second game. But we know that we'll have to play well to win," said Ponting.

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The Australian added that Suresh Raina, who missed the last season, will make a big difference to the CSK outfit this year, "The Chennai Super Kings have been one of the most successful teams in the history of the IPL. They have got a great leader and a great squad of players. They have always managed to play consistent cricket. Last year, they were probably disappointed with the way their season worked out, but I think a lot of that had to do with the fact that Suresh Raina wasn't there for the entire tournament. He comes back to the squad this year, which is almost like a new recruit for them."

The Delhi Capitals&nbsp;Captain Rishabh Pant expressed that it will be very special for him to lead an IPL team for the first time in a match against MS Dhoni's side, "It will be extra special to walk out for the toss with MS Dhoni tomorrow. This will be the first time that I will be leading an IPL team and the first match is against Mahi bhai. I have learned a lot from him, and I have gained a lot of experience from him. Hopefully, I can use this experience against him, and we can win this match. That's what I am looking forward to."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-what-is-new-what-has-changed-who-is-in-who-is-out-ten-things-different-this-time-376268" hreflang="en">IPL 2021: What is new, what has changed, who is in, who is out? Ten things different this time</a>

Pant added that the Delhi Capitals squad, for the IPL 2021, has a great mix of experience and youth, "I have been talking to the senior players like Shikhar Dhawan, Ravichandran Ashwin and Ajinkya Rahane about the fields we can set and other strategic decisions for the team. I have been talking to Ricky and our Bowling Coach James Hopes as well. There's a good mix of seniors and juniors in our squad and I think with the help of Ricky, we can do something different this year."

The DC head coach said that all players are hungry to perform and are ready for another challenge in the IPL, "I am really happy about how our last 10-11 days have gone. There will be certainly no excuses from us about how we perform in Game 1. We've got a great group of players, who are hungry and excited for another challenge for us as a franchise and a team. So, I am excited to see how the boys play tomorrow."

Pant expressed that he is just looking to keep things simple in his first match as Skipper in the IPL.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/from-rabada-to-archer-key-players-set-to-miss-first-ipl-2021-match-of-their-teams-376238" hreflang="en">From Rabada to Archer - Key players set to miss first IPL 2021 match of their teams</a>

"I haven't thought about the fact that it's my first match as Captain in the IPL. I am just going to keep things simple and give my 100 percent. You get a good idea about setting fields as a wicketkeeper and now as Captain I will be making the changes in the field directly. So, there's not going to be much of a difference for me," said Pant.

After finishing as the runner-up of the previous edition of the Indian Premier League, the Delhi Capitals will start their 14th edition of the IPL in Mumbai on Saturday, against Chennai Super Kings at the Wankhede Stadium.

After finishing as the runner-up of the previous edition of the Indian Premier League, the Delhi Capitals will start their 14th edition of the IPL in Mumbai on Saturday, against Chennai Super Kings at the Wankhede Stadium. Delhi Capitals will look to go one up and lift the trophy for the first time. DC's new skipper Rishabh Pant is looking forward to defeating his mentor and former Indian captain MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings in what will be his captaincy debut in the cash-rich T20 tournament. Speaking ahead of their opening match, Head Coach Ricky Ponting and Captain Rishabh Pant expect to achieve a better result this season. "The CSK have got a good squad of players and they've got lots of flexibility and a lot of options. But we've got a great squad as well and we want to build on last season. I have said to the boys that it's not about last season, but there are a lot of positives that we can take from the way we have played in the last couple of seasons. Although we've got a slightly different squad, we expect to play better as a group and achieve some better results. So, for us, Chennai Super Kings is just game one. We need to approach it with the right attitude and play well. Hopefully, win that game and move onto the second game. But we know that we'll have to play well to win," said Ponting. ALSO READ: IPL 2021: Cricketers hit sixes at taking jibes at Dhoni and Dhawan's gully cricket The Australian added that Suresh Raina, who missed the last season, will make a big difference to the CSK outfit this year, "The Chennai Super Kings have been one of the most successful teams in the history of the IPL. They have got a great leader and a great squad of players. They have always managed to play consistent cricket. Last year, they were probably disappointed with the way their season worked out, but I think a lot of that had to do with the fact that Suresh Raina wasn't there for the entire tournament. He comes back to the squad this year, which is almost like a new recruit for them." The Delhi Capitals Captain Rishabh Pant expressed that it will be very special for him to lead an IPL team for the first time in a match against MS Dhoni's side, "It will be extra special to walk out for the toss with MS Dhoni tomorrow. This will be the first time that I will be leading an IPL team and the first match is against Mahi bhai. I have learned a lot from him, and I have gained a lot of experience from him. Hopefully, I can use this experience against him, and we can win this match. That's what I am looking forward to." ALSO READ: IPL 2021: What is new, what has changed, who is in, who is out? Ten things different this time Pant added that the Delhi Capitals squad, for the IPL 2021, has a great mix of experience and youth, "I have been talking to the senior players like Shikhar Dhawan, Ravichandran Ashwin and Ajinkya Rahane about the fields we can set and other strategic decisions for the team. I have been talking to Ricky and our Bowling Coach James Hopes as well. There's a good mix of seniors and juniors in our squad and I think with the help of Ricky, we can do something different this year." The DC head coach said that all players are hungry to perform and are ready for another challenge in the IPL, "I am really happy about how our last 10-11 days have gone. There will be certainly no excuses from us about how we perform in Game 1. We've got a great group of players, who are hungry and excited for another challenge for us as a franchise and a team. So, I am excited to see how the boys play tomorrow." Pant expressed that he is just looking to keep things simple in his first match as Skipper in the IPL. ALSO READ: From Rabada to Archer - Key players set to miss first IPL 2021 match of their teams "I haven't thought about the fact that it's my first match as Captain in the IPL. I am just going to keep things simple and give my 100 percent. You get a good idea about setting fields as a wicketkeeper and now as Captain I will be making the changes in the field directly. So, there's not going to be much of a difference for me," said Pant.

It will be extra special: Rishabh Pant looking to defeat MS Dhoni-led CSK on IPL captaincy debut

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