Former Indian captain Sunil Gavaskar has backed Mumbai Indians to make a hat-trick of Indian Premier League (IPL) title wins in the upcoming 14th&nbsp;edition of the T20 tournament, scheduled to start from April 9. Gavaskar&nbsp;pointed out that the Mumbai Indians players have been in a rich run of form in the build-up to the IPL 2021 while adding the five-time champions would be a hard team to beat.&nbsp;

Rohit Sharma will look to become the first skipper in IPL history to pull off a hat-trick of IPL trophy wins after lifting the coveted trophy in 2019 and 2020.&nbsp;

The likes of Rohit Sharma, Suryakumar Yadav, Ishan Kishan and Pandya brothers were in their element during the recently concluded T20I and ODI series against England.&nbsp;

"I think Mumbai Indians will be hard to beat. We have seen their players coming to form. Ishan Kishan and Suryakumar Yadav, the way they batted. Mumbai Indian players who took part in this T20I series and ODI series have shown they are in good form," Gavaskar told Star Sports.

TRENDING:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-thisara-perera-smashes-6-sixes-becomes-first-sri-lankan-to-achieve-the-iconic-feat-374099" hreflang="en">Watch: Thisara Perera smashes 6 sixes, becomes first Sri Lankan to achieve the iconic feat</a>

"The way Hardik Pandya has come to the party not just for Mumbai Indians, it was important for Indian cricket to see him bowl 9 overs. It means he is ready to play 9 overs. It (the World Test Championship final) is going to be in June, there is still time for that but the way he has come back is very good for Mumbai and Indian cricket," Gavaskar added.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, all of the Mumbai Indians players who were involved in the India-England series have joined the franchise and have started gearing up for the lucrative T20 tournament.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-virat-kohli-to-join-royal-challengers-bangalore-squad-in-chennai-on-april-1-374120" hreflang="en">IPL 2021: Virat Kohli to join Royal Challengers Bangalore squad in Chennai on April 1</a>

The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 commences from April 9 with Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) locking horns with Mumbai Indians (MI) in the season opener.&nbsp;

Former Indian captain Sunil Gavaskar has backed Mumbai Indians to make a hat-trick of Indian Premier League (IPL) title wins in the upcoming 14th edition of the T20 tournament, scheduled to start from April 9.

Former Indian captain Sunil Gavaskar has backed Mumbai Indians to make a hat-trick of Indian Premier League (IPL) title wins in the upcoming 14th edition of the T20 tournament, scheduled to start from April 9. Gavaskar pointed out that the Mumbai Indians players have been in a rich run of form in the build-up to the IPL 2021 while adding the five-time champions would be a hard team to beat. Rohit Sharma will look to become the first skipper in IPL history to pull off a hat-trick of IPL trophy wins after lifting the coveted trophy in 2019 and 2020. The likes of Rohit Sharma, Suryakumar Yadav, Ishan Kishan and Pandya brothers were in their element during the recently concluded T20I and ODI series against England. "I think Mumbai Indians will be hard to beat. We have seen their players coming to form. Ishan Kishan and Suryakumar Yadav, the way they batted. Mumbai Indian players who took part in this T20I series and ODI series have shown they are in good form," Gavaskar told Star Sports. TRENDING: Watch: Thisara Perera smashes 6 sixes, becomes first Sri Lankan to achieve the iconic feat "The way Hardik Pandya has come to the party not just for Mumbai Indians, it was important for Indian cricket to see him bowl 9 overs. It means he is ready to play 9 overs. It (the World Test Championship final) is going to be in June, there is still time for that but the way he has come back is very good for Mumbai and Indian cricket," Gavaskar added. Meanwhile, all of the Mumbai Indians players who were involved in the India-England series have joined the franchise and have started gearing up for the lucrative T20 tournament. ALSO READ: IPL 2021: Virat Kohli to join Royal Challengers Bangalore squad in Chennai on April 1 The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 commences from April 9 with Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) locking horns with Mumbai Indians (MI) in the season opener.

Mumbai Indians will be hard to beat in IPL 2021, says Sunil Gavaskar

Denmark on Sunday joined Norway and other European national teams in a growing movement protesting against the treatment of migrant workers involved in building venues for the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.

Danish players wore jerseys with the slogan "Football supports CHANGE" as they lined up for a photograph before their World Cup qualifier against Moldova, with the Danish Football Union saying the shirts would be put up for sale and the money given to migrant workers in the Gulf state.

Players from Germany and the Netherlands have also protested in recent days as the European qualifying campaign begins for the 2022 tournament, the hosting of which was controversially awarded a decade ago to Qatar.

Norway players, including superstar striker Erling Braut Haaland, donned t-shirts with the slogan 'Human rights, on and off the pitch' prior to their game in Gibraltar on Wednesday.

Germany players then undertook a similar action before taking on Iceland the next day, lining up in T-shirts which spelled the message 'Human Rights'.

"We have the World Cup coming up and there will be discussions about it... we wanted to show we are not ignoring that," said Bayern Munich midfielder Leon Goretzka.

"We have a large reach -- and we can use it to set an example for the values we want to stand for."

The Dutch team joined in prior to kick-off in their game against Latvia in Amsterdam on Saturday and the movement raises the question of whether players, or national federations, would be prepared to actually boycott the World Cup.

Several Norwegian clubs had already spoken out in favour of a boycott before their national team's action. The Norwegian Football Federation is expected to debate the issue at a special congress in June.

<h2>- Could there be a boycott? -</h2>

"It is 10 years too late for a boycott. We should have thought about that at the time" the World Cup was awarded to Qatar in 2010, admitted Bayern and Germany midfielder Joshua Kimmich.

Indeed Belgium coach Roberto Martinez believes a boycott "is not the solution. That would just be turning our backs on the problem".

Qatar has faced criticism for its treatment of migrant workers, many of whom are involved in preparations for the World Cup, with campaigners accusing employers of exploitation and forcing labourers to work in dangerous conditions.

However, Qatari authorities insist they have done more than any country in the region to improve worker welfare and say they have "always been transparent about the health and safety of workers".

"Since construction began in 2014, there have been three work-related fatalities and 35 non-work-related deaths," a spokesman for Qatar's Supreme Committee for Delivery and Legacy claimed in a statement.

Organisers insist a first World Cup in the Arab world has already brought "significant benefits to workers" including improved accommodation facilities and a&nbsp;guarantee to reimburse more than $30 million in illegal recruitment fees to&nbsp;workers.

<h2>- 'Extremely positive' -</h2>

There are contradictions within the protests themselves, with several German internationals playing club football for Bayern, who have a sponsorship deal with Qatar Airways and have regularly visited the country on training camps.

It would be awkward to say the least for any Paris Saint-Germain player to be involved in the various national team protests given the French champions are owned by Qatar.

The movement could nevertheless become especially awkward for FIFA if it continues to spread, although world football's governing body says it will not stop protests.

"FIFA believes in the freedom of speech, and in the power of football as a force for good. No disciplinary proceedings in relation to this matter will be opened by FIFA," it told AFP.

Meanwhile the stance taken by the Norwegians and others has been praised by advocates on the rights of migrant workers in the Gulf.

"It's very commendable of these teams to take a stance and I think they're doing it in a way that's respectful and positive," said Nicholas McGeehan, a researcher at labour rights campaign group Fair Square.

"I think anyone who genuinely cares about the game and the issues these players are raising would agree that what's happening is extremely positive."

Denmark on Sunday joined Norway and other European national teams in a growing movement protesting against the treatment of migrant workers involved in building venues for the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.

Denmark on Sunday joined Norway and other European national teams in a growing movement protesting against the treatment of migrant workers involved in building venues for the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. Danish players wore jerseys with the slogan "Football supports CHANGE" as they lined up for a photograph before their World Cup qualifier against Moldova, with the Danish Football Union saying the shirts would be put up for sale and the money given to migrant workers in the Gulf state. Players from Germany and the Netherlands have also protested in recent days as the European qualifying campaign begins for the 2022 tournament, the hosting of which was controversially awarded a decade ago to Qatar. Norway players, including superstar striker Erling Braut Haaland, donned t-shirts with the slogan 'Human rights, on and off the pitch' prior to their game in Gibraltar on Wednesday. Germany players then undertook a similar action before taking on Iceland the next day, lining up in T-shirts which spelled the message 'Human Rights'. "We have the World Cup coming up and there will be discussions about it... we wanted to show we are not ignoring that," said Bayern Munich midfielder Leon Goretzka. "We have a large reach -- and we can use it to set an example for the values we want to stand for." The Dutch team joined in prior to kick-off in their game against Latvia in Amsterdam on Saturday and the movement raises the question of whether players, or national federations, would be prepared to actually boycott the World Cup. Several Norwegian clubs had already spoken out in favour of a boycott before their national team's action. The Norwegian Football Federation is expected to debate the issue at a special congress in June. - Could there be a boycott? - "It is 10 years too late for a boycott. We should have thought about that at the time" the World Cup was awarded to Qatar in 2010, admitted Bayern and Germany midfielder Joshua Kimmich. Indeed Belgium coach Roberto Martinez believes a boycott "is not the solution. That would just be turning our backs on the problem". Qatar has faced criticism for its treatment of migrant workers, many of whom are involved in preparations for the World Cup, with campaigners accusing employers of exploitation and forcing labourers to work in dangerous conditions. However, Qatari authorities insist they have done more than any country in the region to improve worker welfare and say they have "always been transparent about the health and safety of workers". "Since construction began in 2014, there have been three work-related fatalities and 35 non-work-related deaths," a spokesman for Qatar's Supreme Committee for Delivery and Legacy claimed in a statement. Organisers insist a first World Cup in the Arab world has already brought "significant benefits to workers" including improved accommodation facilities and a guarantee to reimburse more than $30 million in illegal recruitment fees to workers. - 'Extremely positive' - There are contradictions within the protests themselves, with several German internationals playing club football for Bayern, who have a sponsorship deal with Qatar Airways and have regularly visited the country on training camps. It would be awkward to say the least for any Paris Saint-Germain player to be involved in the various national team protests given the French champions are owned by Qatar. The movement could nevertheless become especially awkward for FIFA if it continues to spread, although world football's governing body says it will not stop protests. "FIFA believes in the freedom of speech, and in the power of football as a force for good. No disciplinary proceedings in relation to this matter will be opened by FIFA," it told AFP. Meanwhile the stance taken by the Norwegians and others has been praised by advocates on the rights of migrant workers in the Gulf. "It's very commendable of these teams to take a stance and I think they're doing it in a way that's respectful and positive," said Nicholas McGeehan, a researcher at labour rights campaign group Fair Square. "I think anyone who genuinely cares about the game and the issues these players are raising would agree that what's happening is extremely positive."

Qatar human rights protests spread across World Cup qualifiers

The 2021 NBA Draft will be staged on July 29, one week after a possible seventh game of the NBA Finals, with the lottery for the top pick set for June 22.

The league announced key dates on Monday for the annual allocation of rights for top NBA newcomers in a season forced later than usual into the year by the Covid-19 pandemic.

No details were revealed about the locations for the events or that of the NBA Draft Combine, a workout session for players in front of team scouts planned from June 21-27.

The combine features five-on-five contests as well as strength and agility testing.

Teams who fail to qualify for the playoffs will be involved in a weighted lottery for the top pick on June 22, a month after the start of the NBA playoffs.

The deadline for players to make an early entry application for the NBA Draft is May 30 while the deadline to withdraw such an application is July 19.

js/iwd

The 2021 NBA Draft will be staged on July 29, one week after a possible seventh game of the NBA Finals, with the lottery for the top pick set for June 22. The league announced key dates on Monday for the annual allocation of rights for top NBA newcomers in a season forced later than usual into the year by the Covid-19 pandemic.

The 2021 NBA Draft will be staged on July 29, one week after a possible seventh game of the NBA Finals, with the lottery for the top pick set for June 22. The league announced key dates on Monday for the annual allocation of rights for top NBA newcomers in a season forced later than usual into the year by the Covid-19 pandemic. No details were revealed about the locations for the events or that of the NBA Draft Combine, a workout session for players in front of team scouts planned from June 21-27. The combine features five-on-five contests as well as strength and agility testing. Teams who fail to qualify for the playoffs will be involved in a weighted lottery for the top pick on June 22, a month after the start of the NBA playoffs. The deadline for players to make an early entry application for the NBA Draft is May 30 while the deadline to withdraw such an application is July 19. js/iwd

NBA Draft set for July 29 with lottery for top pick June 22

Kraigg Brathwaite has been at his most obdurate in compiling an unbeaten 61 with the West Indies struggling to cope with the wiles of Suranga Lakmal and the rest of the Sri Lankan bowling attack in reaching 171 for five at tea on the opening day of the second and final Test against Sri Lanka at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium in Antigua on Monday.

Brathwaite's gritty defiance over four hours at the crease has contrasted sharply with the attacking play of Kyle Mayers, who counter-attacked in the morning session but fell in the first over after lunch to Vishwa Fernando for 49.

Lakmal had claimed the early honours for Sri Lanka with two early wickets and added the scalp of the struggling Jermaine Blackwood in the afternoon session to have figures of three for 53 at the interval.

Dhananjaya de Silva then dismissed Jason Holder for 30 just before tea, the former captain taken at slip driving at the first delivery from the spinner to terminate a 51-run fifth wicket partnership with his skipper.

Fresh from career-best Test innings figures of five for 47 a week earlier at the same venue, Lakmal wasted no time in justifying the decision by his captain, Dimuth Karunaratne, to put the West Indies in when he removed John Campbell and Nkrumah Bonner in quick succession.

Campbell fell to a straightforward catch by wicketkeeper Niroshan Dickwella while Bonner, who held out against the visitors for seven hours in compiling an unbeaten century to ensure a draw in the first Test, fell without scoring, playing on to the cunning fast-medium bowler.

Mayers responded in his usual attacking style, dominating a third-wicket partnership of 71 with Brathwaite.&nbsp;

His penchant for attack brought him eight boundaries off 58 deliveries but he continued to live dangerously, edging through or just short of the slip cordon as the Sri Lankan pacers continued to offer the left-hander the opportunity to exercise his expansive off-drives in the hope of eventually offering a catch to the waiting fielders.

His luck ran out in the third ball after lunch with Dickwella coming up with the catch behind the stumps.

Both teams are unchanged from the first Test where the tourists rallied from a 102-run first innings deficit to seize the initiative, only for the home side to bat through the final day to comfortably ensure the stalemate.

Sri Lanka are seeking a first-ever Test series triumph in the Caribbean while the West Indies are keen to follow up their series success in Bangladesh in February with a home triumph ahead of a lengthy international break to accommodate the Indian Premier League.

Kraigg Brathwaite has been at his most obdurate in compiling an unbeaten 61 with the West Indies struggling to cope with the wiles of Suranga Lakmal and the rest of the Sri Lankan bowling attack in reaching 171 for five at tea on the opening day of the second and final Test against Sri Lanka at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium in Antigua on Monday.

Kraigg Brathwaite has been at his most obdurate in compiling an unbeaten 61 with the West Indies struggling to cope with the wiles of Suranga Lakmal and the rest of the Sri Lankan bowling attack in reaching 171 for five at tea on the opening day of the second and final Test against Sri Lanka at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium in Antigua on Monday. Brathwaite's gritty defiance over four hours at the crease has contrasted sharply with the attacking play of Kyle Mayers, who counter-attacked in the morning session but fell in the first over after lunch to Vishwa Fernando for 49. Lakmal had claimed the early honours for Sri Lanka with two early wickets and added the scalp of the struggling Jermaine Blackwood in the afternoon session to have figures of three for 53 at the interval. Dhananjaya de Silva then dismissed Jason Holder for 30 just before tea, the former captain taken at slip driving at the first delivery from the spinner to terminate a 51-run fifth wicket partnership with his skipper. Fresh from career-best Test innings figures of five for 47 a week earlier at the same venue, Lakmal wasted no time in justifying the decision by his captain, Dimuth Karunaratne, to put the West Indies in when he removed John Campbell and Nkrumah Bonner in quick succession. Campbell fell to a straightforward catch by wicketkeeper Niroshan Dickwella while Bonner, who held out against the visitors for seven hours in compiling an unbeaten century to ensure a draw in the first Test, fell without scoring, playing on to the cunning fast-medium bowler. Mayers responded in his usual attacking style, dominating a third-wicket partnership of 71 with Brathwaite. His penchant for attack brought him eight boundaries off 58 deliveries but he continued to live dangerously, edging through or just short of the slip cordon as the Sri Lankan pacers continued to offer the left-hander the opportunity to exercise his expansive off-drives in the hope of eventually offering a catch to the waiting fielders. His luck ran out in the third ball after lunch with Dickwella coming up with the catch behind the stumps. Both teams are unchanged from the first Test where the tourists rallied from a 102-run first innings deficit to seize the initiative, only for the home side to bat through the final day to comfortably ensure the stalemate. Sri Lanka are seeking a first-ever Test series triumph in the Caribbean while the West Indies are keen to follow up their series success in Bangladesh in February with a home triumph ahead of a lengthy international break to accommodate the Indian Premier League.

Braithwaite defies Sri Lanka bowling in second Test

Argentina striker Sergio Aguero said on Monday he was "proud" of his time at Manchester City after announcing his departure when his contract runs out this July.

Aguero joined City from Atletico Madrid in 2011 and has 257 goals in 384 games since, making him their record goal-scorer.

He scored the dramatic winning goal as they edged local rivals Manchester United to the 2012 Premier League.

"When a cycle comes to an end, many sensations arise," he posted on social media.

"A huge sense of satisfaction and pride remains in me for having played with Manchester City for a whole ten seasons - unusual for a professional player this day and age.

"I will continue to give it my utmost for the rest of the season to win more titles and bring more joy to the fans," he added.

In a club statement, City chairman Khaldoon Al Mubarak said he would reserve any farewell speeches until Aguero leaves, but revealed he had commissioned a statue of the striker.

"Sergio's contribution to Manchester City over the last 10 years cannot be overstated," Al Mubarak said.

"This is not yet the moment for farewell words and speeches. There is still much to achieve," he said with City in the running for their first ever Champions League and hot favourites to win the Premier League.

"In the meantime, it gives me great pleasure to announce that we will be commissioning an artist to create a statue of Sergio to live at the Etihad Stadium," he added.

Newspaper Manchester Evening News said City were planning a farewell party for Aguero after their final game of the Premier League season against Everton May 23.

The 32-year-old contracted Covid-19 in January after a season already ravaged by injury and he has played 14 games for City this term, scoring three times.

Aguero missed the end of last season and the start of the current campaign after undergoing knee surgery last June.&nbsp;

Since then he has had another lay-off after suffering a hamstring injury in October.

City coach Pep Guardiola said last week he may not be able to give Sergio Aguero much time on the pitch before his contract expires.

Argentina striker Sergio Aguero said on Monday he was "proud" of his time at Manchester City after announcing his departure when his contract runs out this July.

Argentina striker Sergio Aguero said on Monday he was "proud" of his time at Manchester City after announcing his departure when his contract runs out this July. Aguero joined City from Atletico Madrid in 2011 and has 257 goals in 384 games since, making him their record goal-scorer. He scored the dramatic winning goal as they edged local rivals Manchester United to the 2012 Premier League. "When a cycle comes to an end, many sensations arise," he posted on social media. "A huge sense of satisfaction and pride remains in me for having played with Manchester City for a whole ten seasons - unusual for a professional player this day and age. "I will continue to give it my utmost for the rest of the season to win more titles and bring more joy to the fans," he added. In a club statement, City chairman Khaldoon Al Mubarak said he would reserve any farewell speeches until Aguero leaves, but revealed he had commissioned a statue of the striker. "Sergio's contribution to Manchester City over the last 10 years cannot be overstated," Al Mubarak said. "This is not yet the moment for farewell words and speeches. There is still much to achieve," he said with City in the running for their first ever Champions League and hot favourites to win the Premier League. "In the meantime, it gives me great pleasure to announce that we will be commissioning an artist to create a statue of Sergio to live at the Etihad Stadium," he added. Newspaper Manchester Evening News said City were planning a farewell party for Aguero after their final game of the Premier League season against Everton May 23. The 32-year-old contracted Covid-19 in January after a season already ravaged by injury and he has played 14 games for City this term, scoring three times. Aguero missed the end of last season and the start of the current campaign after undergoing knee surgery last June. Since then he has had another lay-off after suffering a hamstring injury in October. City coach Pep Guardiola said last week he may not be able to give Sergio Aguero much time on the pitch before his contract expires.

'Proud' Aguero to leave Man City

Reigning US and Australian Open champion Naomi Osaka advanced to the Miami Open quarter-finals on Monday, stretching her win streak to 23 matches by defeating Belgian 16th seed Elise Mertens 6-3, 6-3.

The second-ranked Japanese star will next face Greek 23rd seed Maria Sakkari, who outlasted US 29th seed Jessica Pegula 6-4, 2-6, 7-6 (8/6) at the WTA and ATP Masters Series event.

"I started off really well and then for some reason I became a little sluggish. My speed didn't really feel the same," Osaka said.

"I thought it was really mental from then on. In the end, it was who fought the hardest."

Four-time Grand Slam champion Osaka broke at love for a 2-0 lead and broke again for a 5-1 edge but Mertens broke Osaka at love in the seventh game and denied four set points for Osaka to hold in an eighth game that lasted almost 10 minutes.

Osaka, seeking her first Miami crown, saved a break point with her third ace and finally finished off the first set on her seventh chance with a service winner.

In the second set, Osaka needed her fifth chance of the third game to break Mertens, only for the Belgian to quickly break back to 2-2 and hold to 3-2 before requiring treatment for a right shoulder injury.

Osaka won the last four games after that, breaking at love in the seventh game, holding at love in the eighth and breaking again to end matters after 88 minutes when Mertens netted a forehand.

Top-ranked defending champion Ashleigh Barty battled into the quarter-finals by outlasting former world number one Victoria Azarenka 6-1, 1-6, 6-2.

Australia's Barty broke five times, the last when Azarenka netted a forehand volley to end matters after one hour and 52 minutes at Hard Rock Stadium.

Barty, who had to save a match point on the way to a three-set victory over Kristina Kucova in the second round, plays Tuesday against seventh seed Aryna Sabalenka of Belarus, who downed Czech 19th seed Marketa Vondrousova 6-1, 6-2.

"I'm just excited I get to be in another quarter-final of a big event," Barty said.

"I still feel like there's a lot better tennis left out there for me. I still don't feel like I'm playing my very best just yet, but I'm fighting through and I'm finding ways to win, which is great."

The 2019 French Open winner dominated the first set but Azarenka broke for a 2-0 lead in the second, then fought back from 0-40 down to hold for 3-0 on the way to forcing a third set.

After an early exchange of breaks, &nbsp;Azarenka denied Barty on two break chances in the fourth game but the 24-year-old Queenslander broke in the sixth game and again on the last point.

"First two sets probably had some pretty big momentum swings," Barty said. "But I think the third set was a real tussle."

Ukraine's fifth-seeded Elina Svitolina rallied to defeat Czech ninth seed Petra Kvitova 2-6, 7-5, 7-5.

"I'm really happy with how I bounced back from being a set down," Svitolina said. "I'm happy with how I'm playing and handling the pressure. I had to bring my best game to win."

Svitolina's quarter-final foe will be Latvia's 57th-ranked Anastasija Sevastova, who eliminated Croatia's 338th-ranked Ana Konjuh 6-1, 7-5.

<h2>- Tsitsipas, Rublev win -</h2>

On the men's side,&nbsp;Greek second seed Stefanos Tsitsipas defeated Japanese 28th seed Kei Nishikori 6-3, 3-6, 6-1 after an hour and 56 minutes to reach the last 16.

Tsitsipas will next face Italian 24th seed Lorenzo Sonego, who dispatched Colombian Daniel Galan 7-6 (8/6), 6-3.

Russian fourth seed Andrey Rublev routed Hungarian 29th seed Marton Fucsovics 6-2, 6-1, to reach the fourth round.

"I've played some great tennis last couple of months," Rublev said. "We'll see if I can keep going."

The 23-year-old from Moscow will next face Croatia's 32-year-old Marin Cilic, the world number 45 who beat Italy's 19-year-old Lorenzo Musetti 6-3, 6-4.

"Very pleased," Cilic said. "Just have to battle it out with these youngsters. I've got to keep the heads high for the veterans on the tour."

Reigning US and Australian Open champion Naomi Osaka advanced to the Miami Open quarter-finals on Monday, stretching her win streak to 23 matches by defeating Belgian 16th seed Elise Mertens 6-3, 6-3.

Reigning US and Australian Open champion Naomi Osaka advanced to the Miami Open quarter-finals on Monday, stretching her win streak to 23 matches by defeating Belgian 16th seed Elise Mertens 6-3, 6-3. The second-ranked Japanese star will next face Greek 23rd seed Maria Sakkari, who outlasted US 29th seed Jessica Pegula 6-4, 2-6, 7-6 (8/6) at the WTA and ATP Masters Series event. "I started off really well and then for some reason I became a little sluggish. My speed didn't really feel the same," Osaka said. "I thought it was really mental from then on. In the end, it was who fought the hardest." Four-time Grand Slam champion Osaka broke at love for a 2-0 lead and broke again for a 5-1 edge but Mertens broke Osaka at love in the seventh game and denied four set points for Osaka to hold in an eighth game that lasted almost 10 minutes. Osaka, seeking her first Miami crown, saved a break point with her third ace and finally finished off the first set on her seventh chance with a service winner. In the second set, Osaka needed her fifth chance of the third game to break Mertens, only for the Belgian to quickly break back to 2-2 and hold to 3-2 before requiring treatment for a right shoulder injury. Osaka won the last four games after that, breaking at love in the seventh game, holding at love in the eighth and breaking again to end matters after 88 minutes when Mertens netted a forehand. Top-ranked defending champion Ashleigh Barty battled into the quarter-finals by outlasting former world number one Victoria Azarenka 6-1, 1-6, 6-2. Australia's Barty broke five times, the last when Azarenka netted a forehand volley to end matters after one hour and 52 minutes at Hard Rock Stadium. Barty, who had to save a match point on the way to a three-set victory over Kristina Kucova in the second round, plays Tuesday against seventh seed Aryna Sabalenka of Belarus, who downed Czech 19th seed Marketa Vondrousova 6-1, 6-2. "I'm just excited I get to be in another quarter-final of a big event," Barty said. "I still feel like there's a lot better tennis left out there for me. I still don't feel like I'm playing my very best just yet, but I'm fighting through and I'm finding ways to win, which is great." The 2019 French Open winner dominated the first set but Azarenka broke for a 2-0 lead in the second, then fought back from 0-40 down to hold for 3-0 on the way to forcing a third set. After an early exchange of breaks, Azarenka denied Barty on two break chances in the fourth game but the 24-year-old Queenslander broke in the sixth game and again on the last point. "First two sets probably had some pretty big momentum swings," Barty said. "But I think the third set was a real tussle." Ukraine's fifth-seeded Elina Svitolina rallied to defeat Czech ninth seed Petra Kvitova 2-6, 7-5, 7-5. "I'm really happy with how I bounced back from being a set down," Svitolina said. "I'm happy with how I'm playing and handling the pressure. I had to bring my best game to win." Svitolina's quarter-final foe will be Latvia's 57th-ranked Anastasija Sevastova, who eliminated Croatia's 338th-ranked Ana Konjuh 6-1, 7-5. - Tsitsipas, Rublev win - On the men's side, Greek second seed Stefanos Tsitsipas defeated Japanese 28th seed Kei Nishikori 6-3, 3-6, 6-1 after an hour and 56 minutes to reach the last 16. Tsitsipas will next face Italian 24th seed Lorenzo Sonego, who dispatched Colombian Daniel Galan 7-6 (8/6), 6-3. Russian fourth seed Andrey Rublev routed Hungarian 29th seed Marton Fucsovics 6-2, 6-1, to reach the fourth round. "I've played some great tennis last couple of months," Rublev said. "We'll see if I can keep going." The 23-year-old from Moscow will next face Croatia's 32-year-old Marin Cilic, the world number 45 who beat Italy's 19-year-old Lorenzo Musetti 6-3, 6-4. "Very pleased," Cilic said. "Just have to battle it out with these youngsters. I've got to keep the heads high for the veterans on the tour."

Osaka advances while Barty ousts Azarenka at Miami Open

Consecutive Test, Twenty20 and One-Day series defeats would be enough for most cricket nations to ring the changes, but not England, according to team stalwart Jos Buttler.

India captain Virat Kohli said after claiming the ODIs with a seven-run win in a tense decider on Sunday that it had been "sweet" to beat old rivals England in every contest on the three-month tour.

Kohli predicted "exciting times" ahead for his side who are now expected to depose England as the world's top one-day side in the ICC rankings before they host the Twenty20 World Cup this year.

The Tests, won 3-1, saw India showcase a devastating new spinner in Axar Patel, while Prasidh Krishna was unleashed as a new pace threat in the ODIs.

Buttler, who stood in for injured captain Eoin Morgan, said however that England's rivals should not read too much into the defeats.

"We have been a brilliant side for a long period of time now."

Buttler and Morgan believe that exposing new players to India's bedevilling sun-baked pitches will benefit England at the T20 tournament in October and again in 2023 when they defend their 50-over World Cup title in India.

The unbeaten 95 by number eight Sam Curran and two aggressive innings by one-day debutant Liam Livingstone caught the eye of England's management.

"Any time we expand the player pool, that creates competition, that creates better performances and that creates the upward trajectory we are always after," said Buttler.

The England wicketkeeper-batsman said Curran had been put in a unique position coming in so low in the order and nearly securing an unlikely win.

"Many guys are never really exposed to that situation in their whole career so he will take great learning from that," said Buttler.

"He is still only 22 and the scope of where he can take his game to is massive so we are all very excited for him."

Livingstone also impressed with his unbeaten 27 in England's emphatic six-wicket win on Thursday followed by his 36 on Sunday.

"Liam coming in and playing in those two games the way he has, it shows that we are doing things right," said Buttler.

"Liam is obviously a very attacking, aggressive batsman and we want him to play in exactly that fashion when he comes in," he added.

"It is brilliant to see someone like Liam come in and play straight away in the fashion that we would like people to play in.

"That shows that we are doing things right, the message is getting through to people and we will continue to play in that way."

England may not have won a series in India but Buttler said: "We are in a really good place as a side."

Consecutive Test, Twenty20 and One-Day series defeats would be enough for most cricket nations to ring the changes, but not England, according to team stalwart Jos Buttler.

Consecutive Test, Twenty20 and One-Day series defeats would be enough for most cricket nations to ring the changes, but not England, according to team stalwart Jos Buttler. India captain Virat Kohli said after claiming the ODIs with a seven-run win in a tense decider on Sunday that it had been "sweet" to beat old rivals England in every contest on the three-month tour. Kohli predicted "exciting times" ahead for his side who are now expected to depose England as the world's top one-day side in the ICC rankings before they host the Twenty20 World Cup this year. The Tests, won 3-1, saw India showcase a devastating new spinner in Axar Patel, while Prasidh Krishna was unleashed as a new pace threat in the ODIs. Buttler, who stood in for injured captain Eoin Morgan, said however that England's rivals should not read too much into the defeats. "We have been a brilliant side for a long period of time now." Buttler and Morgan believe that exposing new players to India's bedevilling sun-baked pitches will benefit England at the T20 tournament in October and again in 2023 when they defend their 50-over World Cup title in India. The unbeaten 95 by number eight Sam Curran and two aggressive innings by one-day debutant Liam Livingstone caught the eye of England's management. "Any time we expand the player pool, that creates competition, that creates better performances and that creates the upward trajectory we are always after," said Buttler. The England wicketkeeper-batsman said Curran had been put in a unique position coming in so low in the order and nearly securing an unlikely win. "Many guys are never really exposed to that situation in their whole career so he will take great learning from that," said Buttler. "He is still only 22 and the scope of where he can take his game to is massive so we are all very excited for him." Livingstone also impressed with his unbeaten 27 in England's emphatic six-wicket win on Thursday followed by his 36 on Sunday. "Liam coming in and playing in those two games the way he has, it shows that we are doing things right," said Buttler. "Liam is obviously a very attacking, aggressive batsman and we want him to play in exactly that fashion when he comes in," he added. "It is brilliant to see someone like Liam come in and play straight away in the fashion that we would like people to play in. "That shows that we are doing things right, the message is getting through to people and we will continue to play in that way." England may not have won a series in India but Buttler said: "We are in a really good place as a side."

England will not panic despite India tour defeats: Buttler

Mercedes team chief Toto Wolff said "track limits won the race for us" on Sunday after Lewis Hamilton claimed a sensational season-opening victory at the Bahrain Grand Prix.

Wolff praised his team for their strategy to help set up a sublime triumphant drive from the defending seven-time world champion – but gave credit to a set of white lines at Turn Four.

It was there, with three laps remaining, that Max Verstappen ran beyond track limits as he passed Hamilton to take the lead, but on the instructions of the race director had to hand back the place immediately. &nbsp;

Hamilton held the lead and did not give Verstappen another chance as the pair provided a thrilling finale with the champion winning by seven-tenths of a second.

"Max made a tiny mistake there and he had to give the position back," said Wolff. "We were told suddenly during the race that track limits were imposed – and that is what won us the race today.

Hamilton agreed.

"If he (Verstappen) hadn't made a mistake he would have won the race," said the winner. "I had to really keep my head and mind set in the car and to make no mistakes."

"What a difficult race that was," added Hamilton. "Max was all over me right at the end, but I just about managed to hold him off. It was one of the hardest races I have had in a while."&nbsp;

"It was such a great fight, but this is not the end for them. They will hit back with a vengeance in the next race."

Wolff said Red Bull looked strong.

"For the first race, I think these guys are a tiny bit ahead of us.

"It was a great battle of strategies," Wolff said.

"We took a very bold move pitting so early with Lewis and we gained a position, but then we thought we are doing the same again to prevent the under-cut."

<h2>- 'I love the challenge' -</h2>

Hamilton also praised Mercedes for team strategy.&nbsp;

"Stopping early, we knew was going to be difficult, but we had to cover Max. They've had an amazing performance all weekend, so it was going to take something pretty special here."

Hamilton said he was relishing the prospect of a close battle with Verstappen all&nbsp;season.

"I definitely am. Each year they're talking about when you think you've hit your peak.

"I think timing is everything and it is going to take everything and more for us to put in performances like this, but we love the challenge. I love the challenge. I still love what I do.

"It was so hard in the car today, but what a great event and this is a really good start for us. Through testing we thought we were going to be six to eight tenths behind, so the work that has gone on this week has been spectacular.

"We came into this race on the back foot, knowing it would be a tough start, but everyone worked hard to maximise what we had. It was heads down for everyone. I am so proud of everybody.

Hamilton's first win this season increased his career record total to 96 wins – 75 of them with Mercedes. He also passed Michael Schumacher's record of laps led in a race and recorded the 300th win by a British driver.

Mercedes team chief Toto Wolff said "track limits won the race for us" on Sunday after Lewis Hamilton claimed a sensational season-opening victory at the Bahrain Grand Prix.

Mercedes team chief Toto Wolff said "track limits won the race for us" on Sunday after Lewis Hamilton claimed a sensational season-opening victory at the Bahrain Grand Prix. Wolff praised his team for their strategy to help set up a sublime triumphant drive from the defending seven-time world champion – but gave credit to a set of white lines at Turn Four. It was there, with three laps remaining, that Max Verstappen ran beyond track limits as he passed Hamilton to take the lead, but on the instructions of the race director had to hand back the place immediately. Hamilton held the lead and did not give Verstappen another chance as the pair provided a thrilling finale with the champion winning by seven-tenths of a second. "Max made a tiny mistake there and he had to give the position back," said Wolff. "We were told suddenly during the race that track limits were imposed – and that is what won us the race today. Hamilton agreed. "If he (Verstappen) hadn't made a mistake he would have won the race," said the winner. "I had to really keep my head and mind set in the car and to make no mistakes." "What a difficult race that was," added Hamilton. "Max was all over me right at the end, but I just about managed to hold him off. It was one of the hardest races I have had in a while." "It was such a great fight, but this is not the end for them. They will hit back with a vengeance in the next race." Wolff said Red Bull looked strong. "For the first race, I think these guys are a tiny bit ahead of us. "It was a great battle of strategies," Wolff said. "We took a very bold move pitting so early with Lewis and we gained a position, but then we thought we are doing the same again to prevent the under-cut." - 'I love the challenge' - Hamilton also praised Mercedes for team strategy. "Stopping early, we knew was going to be difficult, but we had to cover Max. They've had an amazing performance all weekend, so it was going to take something pretty special here." Hamilton said he was relishing the prospect of a close battle with Verstappen all season. "I definitely am. Each year they're talking about when you think you've hit your peak. "I think timing is everything and it is going to take everything and more for us to put in performances like this, but we love the challenge. I love the challenge. I still love what I do. "It was so hard in the car today, but what a great event and this is a really good start for us. Through testing we thought we were going to be six to eight tenths behind, so the work that has gone on this week has been spectacular. "We came into this race on the back foot, knowing it would be a tough start, but everyone worked hard to maximise what we had. It was heads down for everyone. I am so proud of everybody. Hamilton's first win this season increased his career record total to 96 wins – 75 of them with Mercedes. He also passed Michael Schumacher's record of laps led in a race and recorded the 300th win by a British driver.

White lines saved Hamilton, says Mercedes boss

Top-seeded Daniil Medvedev hobbled into the fourth round of the Miami Open on Sunday, defying crippling leg cramps to beat Australian Alexei Popyrin 7-6 (7/3), 6-7 (7/9), 6-4.

World number two Medvedev, increasingly hampered as the third set wore on in the heat and humidity of South Florida, nevertheless mustered the only service break of the third set on the way to a dramatic victory over 86th-ranked Popyrin in the ATP Masters and WTA hardcourt tournament.

"It's probably one of the sweetest victories in my career, because I was cramping like hell in the third set," Medvedev said.

"It was really painful," Medvedev said. "A few moments during rallies, I felt like my legs were not following me any more. The only thing I was thinking about was not to fall down because if I fell down, I don't think I'd be able to get up.

"There were moments where I just wanted to lie down and say, 'OK, it's over,' but I couldn't accept that."

Medvedev had appeared to be cruising to the finish line when he seized a 5-2 lead in the second set.

Popyrin held serve for 5-3, but since Medvedev hadn't faced a break point in the match another hold seemed a mere formality.

Instead, Medvedev was broken to love in a game that featured a double fault and three superb forehand winners from Popyrin -- including a stinging cross-court return on break point.

Popyrin promptly fell to 0-40 in the next game but an ace, a service winner and a forehand long from Medvedev erased three match points.

Medvedev saved two set points in the tiebreak before Popyrin, who won his first ATP title at Singapore in February, leveled the match with a forehand winner on his third set point.

The Russian, runner-up to Novak Djokovic at the Australian Open in February, will next face unseeded American Frances Tiafoe, who beat 16th-seeded Dusan Lajovic of Serbia 1-6, 7-5, 6-3.

John Isner, the 2018 champion and 2019 runner-up, booked a fourth-round spot with a 7-6 (7/5), 7-6 (7/5) victory over 11th-seeded Canadian Felix Auger-Aliassime.

The match was a near-carbon copy of Isner's two-tiebreak win over Auger-Aliassime in the 2019 semi-finals. The US veteran, 35, next faces another familiar foe in Roberto Bautista Agut.

The seventh-seeded Spaniard beat Germany's Jan-Lennard Struff 4-6, 6-3, 6-2 to book a chance to avenge his 2019 quarter-final Miami loss to Isner.

<h2>- Osaka gets walkover -</h2>

Italian teenager Jannik Sinner out-lasted 14th-seeded Karen Khachanov 4-6, 7-6 (7/2), 6-4, in a physically taxing 2hr 50min battle.

"I'm very happy that I won today this tough match," said Sinner, who booked a last-16 meeting with Finland's Emil Ruusuvuori.

Ruusuvuori, who toppled third-seeded Alexander Zverev in the second round, beat Sweden's Mikael Ymer &nbsp;4-6, 6-1, 7-5.

In the women's draw, second-seeded Naomi Osaka reached the fourth round for the first time, without lifting a racquet, when scheduled opponent Nina Stojanovic withdrew with a right thigh injury.

The US and Australian Open champion, who could overtake number one Ashleigh Barty in the rankings with a title victory if the Australian fails to reach the final, next faces 16th-seeded Belgian Elise Mertens, who defeated Anett Kontaveit of Estonia 6-2, 0-6, 6-2.

Spain's Garbine Muguruza, a two-time Grand Slam winner who ended a two-year title drought in Dubai this month, dropped the first set on the way to a 4-6, 6-3, 6-4 victory over Anna Kalinskaya.

She will face eighth-seeded Canadian Bianca Andreescu, a 7-6 (7/4), 6-7 (2/7), 6-4 winner over American Amanda Anisimova.

Fourth-seeded American Sofia Kenin was eliminated by 27th seed Ons Jabeur of Tunisia 6-4, 4-6, 6-4.

Top-seeded Daniil Medvedev hobbled into the fourth round of the Miami Open on Sunday, defying crippling leg cramps to beat Australian Alexei Popyrin 7-6 (7/3), 6-7 (7/9), 6-4.

Top-seeded Daniil Medvedev hobbled into the fourth round of the Miami Open on Sunday, defying crippling leg cramps to beat Australian Alexei Popyrin 7-6 (7/3), 6-7 (7/9), 6-4. World number two Medvedev, increasingly hampered as the third set wore on in the heat and humidity of South Florida, nevertheless mustered the only service break of the third set on the way to a dramatic victory over 86th-ranked Popyrin in the ATP Masters and WTA hardcourt tournament. "It's probably one of the sweetest victories in my career, because I was cramping like hell in the third set," Medvedev said. "It was really painful," Medvedev said. "A few moments during rallies, I felt like my legs were not following me any more. The only thing I was thinking about was not to fall down because if I fell down, I don't think I'd be able to get up. "There were moments where I just wanted to lie down and say, 'OK, it's over,' but I couldn't accept that." Medvedev had appeared to be cruising to the finish line when he seized a 5-2 lead in the second set. Popyrin held serve for 5-3, but since Medvedev hadn't faced a break point in the match another hold seemed a mere formality. Instead, Medvedev was broken to love in a game that featured a double fault and three superb forehand winners from Popyrin -- including a stinging cross-court return on break point. Popyrin promptly fell to 0-40 in the next game but an ace, a service winner and a forehand long from Medvedev erased three match points. Medvedev saved two set points in the tiebreak before Popyrin, who won his first ATP title at Singapore in February, leveled the match with a forehand winner on his third set point. The Russian, runner-up to Novak Djokovic at the Australian Open in February, will next face unseeded American Frances Tiafoe, who beat 16th-seeded Dusan Lajovic of Serbia 1-6, 7-5, 6-3. John Isner, the 2018 champion and 2019 runner-up, booked a fourth-round spot with a 7-6 (7/5), 7-6 (7/5) victory over 11th-seeded Canadian Felix Auger-Aliassime. The match was a near-carbon copy of Isner's two-tiebreak win over Auger-Aliassime in the 2019 semi-finals. The US veteran, 35, next faces another familiar foe in Roberto Bautista Agut. The seventh-seeded Spaniard beat Germany's Jan-Lennard Struff 4-6, 6-3, 6-2 to book a chance to avenge his 2019 quarter-final Miami loss to Isner. - Osaka gets walkover - Italian teenager Jannik Sinner out-lasted 14th-seeded Karen Khachanov 4-6, 7-6 (7/2), 6-4, in a physically taxing 2hr 50min battle. "I'm very happy that I won today this tough match," said Sinner, who booked a last-16 meeting with Finland's Emil Ruusuvuori. Ruusuvuori, who toppled third-seeded Alexander Zverev in the second round, beat Sweden's Mikael Ymer 4-6, 6-1, 7-5. In the women's draw, second-seeded Naomi Osaka reached the fourth round for the first time, without lifting a racquet, when scheduled opponent Nina Stojanovic withdrew with a right thigh injury. The US and Australian Open champion, who could overtake number one Ashleigh Barty in the rankings with a title victory if the Australian fails to reach the final, next faces 16th-seeded Belgian Elise Mertens, who defeated Anett Kontaveit of Estonia 6-2, 0-6, 6-2. Spain's Garbine Muguruza, a two-time Grand Slam winner who ended a two-year title drought in Dubai this month, dropped the first set on the way to a 4-6, 6-3, 6-4 victory over Anna Kalinskaya. She will face eighth-seeded Canadian Bianca Andreescu, a 7-6 (7/4), 6-7 (2/7), 6-4 winner over American Amanda Anisimova. Fourth-seeded American Sofia Kenin was eliminated by 27th seed Ons Jabeur of Tunisia 6-4, 4-6, 6-4.

Top-seeded Medvedev toils into Miami Open fourth round

The Germany football team came up with a cryptic message on Sunday in their latest protest aimed at 2022 World Cup hosts Qatar.

The Germans joined Denmark, Norway and the Netherlands in a growing movement in support of workers involved in building World Cup venues in the Gulf state.

Human rights groups have been heavily critical of the treatment of migrant workers, claims Qatar disputes.

Before their 1-0 win over Romania in Bucharest on Sunday, the German team briefly reversed their shirts prior to kick-off with the numbers facing forwards.

The subtle gesture was intended to draw attention to the United Nations' 30-point declaration of Human Rights.

The German FA account posted "We are 30!" over a picture of the team on Twitter with each players' number referring to one of the articles.

"We all stand for fair play, not only on the pitch but also off it," said Germany captain Manuel Neuer.

"We stand for these 30 human rights articles, for diversity and against discrimination.

"That's what we wanted to show.

"The idea came from the team again, as it did before the match against Iceland," added Neuer.

Last Thursday, the German team wore T-shirts which spelt out "Human Rights" before their 3-0 win over Iceland in their opening qualifier.

The German Football Association (DFB) has supported the national team's protests.

"Every single sign is powerful and effective," said DFB president Fritz Keller in a statement on their website.

"But of course we must and will continue to raise our voices.

"We play for people and not for governments."

However, Keller implied the German FA is against boycotting the 2022 finals.

"We are in contact with... experts from non-governmental organisations," he added.

"Amnesty International advises against a boycott and rather demands dialogue with those involved, setting clear signals - as the national team did" by wearing the T-shirts which spelt "Human Rights".&nbsp;

Germany midfielder Joshua Kimmich has said talk of a boycott is "10 years too late".

"We should have thought about it at the time," he added, referring to the World Cup finals being awarded to Qatar back in 2010.

Elsewhere, Danish players wore shirts with "Football supports CHANGE" before their qualifier against Moldova on Sunday.

Norway also wore t-shirts stating "Human rights, on and off the pitch" prior to recent games against Gibraltar and Turkey.

The Dutch team also wore T-shirts with the message "Football supports CHANGE" before their 1-0 win over Latvia in Amsterdam on Saturday.

The Germany football team came up with a cryptic message on Sunday in their latest protest aimed at 2022 World Cup hosts Qatar. The Germans joined Denmark, Norway and the Netherlands in a growing movement in support of workers involved in building World Cup venues in the Gulf state.

The Germany football team came up with a cryptic message on Sunday in their latest protest aimed at 2022 World Cup hosts Qatar. The Germans joined Denmark, Norway and the Netherlands in a growing movement in support of workers involved in building World Cup venues in the Gulf state. Human rights groups have been heavily critical of the treatment of migrant workers, claims Qatar disputes. Before their 1-0 win over Romania in Bucharest on Sunday, the German team briefly reversed their shirts prior to kick-off with the numbers facing forwards. The subtle gesture was intended to draw attention to the United Nations' 30-point declaration of Human Rights. The German FA account posted "We are 30!" over a picture of the team on Twitter with each players' number referring to one of the articles. "We all stand for fair play, not only on the pitch but also off it," said Germany captain Manuel Neuer. "We stand for these 30 human rights articles, for diversity and against discrimination. "That's what we wanted to show. "The idea came from the team again, as it did before the match against Iceland," added Neuer. Last Thursday, the German team wore T-shirts which spelt out "Human Rights" before their 3-0 win over Iceland in their opening qualifier. The German Football Association (DFB) has supported the national team's protests. "Every single sign is powerful and effective," said DFB president Fritz Keller in a statement on their website. "But of course we must and will continue to raise our voices. "We play for people and not for governments." However, Keller implied the German FA is against boycotting the 2022 finals. "We are in contact with... experts from non-governmental organisations," he added. "Amnesty International advises against a boycott and rather demands dialogue with those involved, setting clear signals - as the national team did" by wearing the T-shirts which spelt "Human Rights". Germany midfielder Joshua Kimmich has said talk of a boycott is "10 years too late". "We should have thought about it at the time," he added, referring to the World Cup finals being awarded to Qatar back in 2010. Elsewhere, Danish players wore shirts with "Football supports CHANGE" before their qualifier against Moldova on Sunday. Norway also wore t-shirts stating "Human rights, on and off the pitch" prior to recent games against Gibraltar and Turkey. The Dutch team also wore T-shirts with the message "Football supports CHANGE" before their 1-0 win over Latvia in Amsterdam on Saturday.

Germany again protest for human rights with cryptic message

India beat England by seven runs on Sunday to clinch the one-day international series 2-1 despite a courageous unbeaten 95 from Sam Curran.

England, who had already lost the Test and Twenty20 series, bowled out India for 329 with 10 balls to spare in Pune.

England looked on the ropes at 200 for seven, but Curran equalled the highest ODI score by a batsman coming in at number eight or lower.

England sent out the order that Curran was to be given the strike as much as possible for the closing overs as they hoped for an unlikely win.

But, needing 14 to win off the final six balls, Curran came up against a disciplined effort from T. Natarajan who gave away just one boundary.

Stand-in skipper Jos Buttler said England, who were without injured captain Eoin Morgan, were indebted to Curran's "unbelievable" innings.

Indian seamers Shardul Thakur&nbsp;and Bhuvneshwar Kumar shared seven wickets between them as England finished on 322 for nine.

England's top order failed to build partnerships. Kumar sent back openers Jason Roy, for 14, and Jonny Bairstow, for one, in the first three overs.

Ben Stokes, who survived a dropped catch by Hardik Pandya on 15, fell to Natarajan for 35 and Thakur trapped Buttler lbw for 15.

Dawid Malan and Liam Livingstone put on 50 for the fifth wicket but Thakur had Livingstone caught and bowled for 36.

"We're disappointed, we came here and we wanted to win, but there have been great learnings throughout the whole process," said Buttler, who praised Curran as one of the new generation making their mark in the England side.

"Sam keeps showing what a match-winner he is. He is still only 22 and the scope of where he can take his game to is massive so we are all very excited for him."

Curran put on 57 for the eighth wicket with Adil Rashid, who was superbly caught by Virat Kohli in the covers, and then 60 for the ninth wicket with Mark Wood, who made 14 before being run out in the final over.

The left-hander, who was dropped on 22 and 87, hit nine fours and three sixes in his 83-ball knock.

<h2>- Positive India attack with bat -</h2>

India started strongly with a 103-run opening stand between Rohit Sharma, who scored 37, and Shikhar Dhawan, who hit 67, before Rashid's leg-spin removed both.

Moeen Ali rattled the stumps of Kohli, playing his 200th international as captain, but who has struggled against spin at times during England's tour of India.

The home side were then indebted to Rishabh Pant (78) and Hardik Pandya (64) who put on 99 for the fifth wicket.

Left-hander Pant swatted a six off Rashid to bring up his second successive half-century.

Thakur hit 30 off 21 balls but India lost their final four wickets for eight runs as Wood claimed three wickets, including two in one over.

Kohli said he was "surprised" that Thakur was not named man-of-the-match instead of Curran after his four wickets and 30 runs.

"And Bhuvi (Kumar) another contender for man-of-the-series. These guys were the difference in the middle overs and powerplay."

England's Jonny Bairstow was named man-of-the-series for his 219 runs in three matches including a match-winning 124 in England's chase of 337 in the second ODI.

Kohli's India outplayed England in the four Tests 3-1 and then edged out the tourists 3-2 in the Twenty20 series.

India beat England by seven runs on Sunday to clinch the one-day international series 2-1 despite a courageous unbeaten 95 from Sam Curran. England, who had already lost the Test and Twenty20 series, bowled out India for 329 with 10 balls to spare in Pune.

India beat England by seven runs on Sunday to clinch the one-day international series 2-1 despite a courageous unbeaten 95 from Sam Curran. England, who had already lost the Test and Twenty20 series, bowled out India for 329 with 10 balls to spare in Pune. England looked on the ropes at 200 for seven, but Curran equalled the highest ODI score by a batsman coming in at number eight or lower. England sent out the order that Curran was to be given the strike as much as possible for the closing overs as they hoped for an unlikely win. But, needing 14 to win off the final six balls, Curran came up against a disciplined effort from T. Natarajan who gave away just one boundary. Stand-in skipper Jos Buttler said England, who were without injured captain Eoin Morgan, were indebted to Curran's "unbelievable" innings. Indian seamers Shardul Thakur and Bhuvneshwar Kumar shared seven wickets between them as England finished on 322 for nine. England's top order failed to build partnerships. Kumar sent back openers Jason Roy, for 14, and Jonny Bairstow, for one, in the first three overs. Ben Stokes, who survived a dropped catch by Hardik Pandya on 15, fell to Natarajan for 35 and Thakur trapped Buttler lbw for 15. Dawid Malan and Liam Livingstone put on 50 for the fifth wicket but Thakur had Livingstone caught and bowled for 36. "We're disappointed, we came here and we wanted to win, but there have been great learnings throughout the whole process," said Buttler, who praised Curran as one of the new generation making their mark in the England side. "Sam keeps showing what a match-winner he is. He is still only 22 and the scope of where he can take his game to is massive so we are all very excited for him." Curran put on 57 for the eighth wicket with Adil Rashid, who was superbly caught by Virat Kohli in the covers, and then 60 for the ninth wicket with Mark Wood, who made 14 before being run out in the final over. The left-hander, who was dropped on 22 and 87, hit nine fours and three sixes in his 83-ball knock. - Positive India attack with bat - India started strongly with a 103-run opening stand between Rohit Sharma, who scored 37, and Shikhar Dhawan, who hit 67, before Rashid's leg-spin removed both. Moeen Ali rattled the stumps of Kohli, playing his 200th international as captain, but who has struggled against spin at times during England's tour of India. The home side were then indebted to Rishabh Pant (78) and Hardik Pandya (64) who put on 99 for the fifth wicket. Left-hander Pant swatted a six off Rashid to bring up his second successive half-century. Thakur hit 30 off 21 balls but India lost their final four wickets for eight runs as Wood claimed three wickets, including two in one over. Kohli said he was "surprised" that Thakur was not named man-of-the-match instead of Curran after his four wickets and 30 runs. "And Bhuvi (Kumar) another contender for man-of-the-series. These guys were the difference in the middle overs and powerplay." England's Jonny Bairstow was named man-of-the-series for his 219 runs in three matches including a match-winning 124 in England's chase of 337 in the second ODI. Kohli's India outplayed England in the four Tests 3-1 and then edged out the tourists 3-2 in the Twenty20 series.

India edge England in ODI decider despite Curran heroics

UEFA has said the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic meant plans to use VAR in the European 2022 World Cup qualifiers had to be abandoned after a weekend in which Cristiano Ronaldo's anger at being denied a late winner for Portugal against Serbia highlighted the lack of technology to help officials.

"In 2019, UEFA had proposed to FIFA the implementation of VAR in the current World Cup qualifiers. The impact of the pandemic on operational and logistical capabilities led UEFA to delay the implementation of VAR in the Europa League group phase as well as to withdraw the proposal to implement VAR in the 2022 European qualifiers," UEFA said in a statement.

Video assistant referees are now set to come into the Europa League group stage as of next season.

"VAR was also not in use in the UEFA Nations League group stage in the autumn of 2020 and has therefore to-date never been used in UEFA national team qualifying group stage matches," European football's governing body added.

It follows several moments of controversy since the start of qualifying last week for the Qatar World Cup, with the Ronaldo flashpoint casting a light on the lack of any goal-line technology (GLT).

Ronaldo thought he had scored a stoppage-time winner for Portugal in Belgrade as footage appeared to show the ball had crossed the line before Serbia defender Stefan Mitrovic could clear.

The Portugal captain was booked for protesting by Dutch referee Danny Makkelie as play was waved on and the game finished in a 2-2 draw. Ronaldo threw away his captain's armband in disgust at full-time.

"I always give and will give everything for my country, that will never change. But there are difficult times to deal with, especially when we feel that an entire nation is being harmed," Ronaldo later posted on Instagram.

Portuguese sports daily A Bola on Monday published an interview with Makkelie in which the official said he had apologised to coach Fernando Santos and the Portugal team.

Elsewhere Spain defender Inigo Martinez claimed that a penalty given against his side in a 1-1 draw with Greece would not have been awarded had video assistant referees been available, while Republic of Ireland manager Stephen Kenny felt they were denied a spot-kick in their defeat by Serbia.

"How can there not be VAR? There is for some matches and not for others. I don't understand how. There's nothing we can do about that now," Kenny told Irish broadcaster RTE.

VAR and goal-line technology are used in leading European leagues as well as the UEFA Champions League.

FIFA introduced GLT at the 2014 World Cup and VAR in 2018 in Russia, and its regulations for the 2022 qualifiers do make it possible for video assistant referees and goal-line technology to be introduced.

European World Cup qualifying action continues this week with matches on Tuesday and Wednesday.

UEFA has said the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic meant plans to use VAR in the European 2022 World Cup qualifiers had to be abandoned after a weekend in which Cristiano Ronaldo's anger at being denied a late winner for Portugal against Serbia highlighted the lack of technology to help officials.

UEFA has said the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic meant plans to use VAR in the European 2022 World Cup qualifiers had to be abandoned after a weekend in which Cristiano Ronaldo's anger at being denied a late winner for Portugal against Serbia highlighted the lack of technology to help officials. "In 2019, UEFA had proposed to FIFA the implementation of VAR in the current World Cup qualifiers. The impact of the pandemic on operational and logistical capabilities led UEFA to delay the implementation of VAR in the Europa League group phase as well as to withdraw the proposal to implement VAR in the 2022 European qualifiers," UEFA said in a statement. Video assistant referees are now set to come into the Europa League group stage as of next season. "VAR was also not in use in the UEFA Nations League group stage in the autumn of 2020 and has therefore to-date never been used in UEFA national team qualifying group stage matches," European football's governing body added. It follows several moments of controversy since the start of qualifying last week for the Qatar World Cup, with the Ronaldo flashpoint casting a light on the lack of any goal-line technology (GLT). Ronaldo thought he had scored a stoppage-time winner for Portugal in Belgrade as footage appeared to show the ball had crossed the line before Serbia defender Stefan Mitrovic could clear. The Portugal captain was booked for protesting by Dutch referee Danny Makkelie as play was waved on and the game finished in a 2-2 draw. Ronaldo threw away his captain's armband in disgust at full-time. "I always give and will give everything for my country, that will never change. But there are difficult times to deal with, especially when we feel that an entire nation is being harmed," Ronaldo later posted on Instagram. Portuguese sports daily A Bola on Monday published an interview with Makkelie in which the official said he had apologised to coach Fernando Santos and the Portugal team. Elsewhere Spain defender Inigo Martinez claimed that a penalty given against his side in a 1-1 draw with Greece would not have been awarded had video assistant referees been available, while Republic of Ireland manager Stephen Kenny felt they were denied a spot-kick in their defeat by Serbia. "How can there not be VAR? There is for some matches and not for others. I don't understand how. There's nothing we can do about that now," Kenny told Irish broadcaster RTE. VAR and goal-line technology are used in leading European leagues as well as the UEFA Champions League. FIFA introduced GLT at the 2014 World Cup and VAR in 2018 in Russia, and its regulations for the 2022 qualifiers do make it possible for video assistant referees and goal-line technology to be introduced. European World Cup qualifying action continues this week with matches on Tuesday and Wednesday.

Pandemic blamed for lack of VAR in World Cup qualifiers after Ronaldo fury

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